MotoAmerica: Vance Family Foundation Donating $125,000 To RWAF

David Swarts

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June 6, 2024

MotoAmerica: Vance Family Foundation Donating $125,000 To RWAF

Vance Family Foundation To Donate $125,000 To “Rainey’s Ride To The Races”

Terry Vance Set For Largest Donation In Roadracing World Action Fund History

IRVINE, CA (June 6, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that the Terry Vance Family Foundation is set to make the most generous donation in the history of the Roadracing World Action Fund, and he will do so through the fourth-annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races.” The drag racing legend and current MotoAmerica team owner is donating $125,000 to the fund that provides for the purchase of the Airfence and Alpina soft barriers.

Spurred on by his donation a year ago to the “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” charity event, Vance has opted to further increase his donation this year.

“First of all, I think it’s important to recognize the effort put forth by John Ulrich in not only starting the Roadracing World Action Fund, but in the continuous work of purchasing the soft barriers and maintaining the integrity of the fund,” Vance said. “Donating to the Roadracing World Action Fund is a no-brainer for me as there is no better way to give back to the industry than by doing everything we can to protect our racers. The soft barriers are a proven entity, and the bottom line is, they save lives. What is more valuable than that? In making this donation, I ask that others in our industry take up the challenge of joining me in making our sport as safe as it can be.”

“I think Terry’s donation this year is awesome,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Terry’s a racing legend and he understands how these soft barriers provide protection for our athlete’s safety. All of us at MotoAmerica really appreciate Terry’s contribution to the Action Fund through Rainey’s Ride to the Races. The entire paddock and our fans benefit from Terry’s very generous donation.”

“Rainey’s Ride To The Races” will be held on Friday, July 12, opening day of the sixth round of the MotoAmerica Championship at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and will again benefit the Roadracing World Action Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes motorcycle racing safety with the facilitation of soft barrier systems at racing events.

The ride will be limited to 50 participants who purchase the special $700 Premium “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Ticket, which includes the Q&A session and lunch with legends Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson, Bubba Shobert, Rick Johnson, Scott Parker, Doug Chandler, Thomas Stevens, Miguel Duhamel, Ben Spies, and John Kocinski in the climate-controlled Turn 3 Paddock Suite on Friday. While a three-day general admission ticket is included in the donation, for an additional $700, “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” ticket purchasers can upgrade to the MotoAmerica Superfan VIP Experience in the Turn 3 Paddock Suite for the entire weekend.

To purchase tickets for Rainey’s Ride To The Races, click HERE

For more information on the Roadracing World Action Fund, click HERE

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+

Isle Of Man TT: Race Report From Superstock TT Race One

David Swarts

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June 6, 2024

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Isle Of Man TT: Race Report From Superstock TT Race One

TODD TAKES FIRST TT VICTORY IN RL360 SUPERSTOCK TT RACE 1

Davey Todd claimed his first victory at the Isle of Man TT Races on Thursday afternoon, the Milwaukee BMW Motorrad rider edging out Peter Hickman (Monster Energy BMW by FHO Racing) in the RL360 Superstock TT Race 1 by just 2.2 seconds after a thrilling tussle. Michael Dunlop completed the podium with a third place finish on his MD Racing Honda.

With a 12.15pm start, Todd led at Glen Helen on the opening lap, his advantage over Dunlop 1.5 seconds with Hickman only a tenth of a second further back. Dean Harrison (Honda Racing) was well in touch, 0.3 seconds behind Hickman, with James Hillier (WTF Racing Honda) and Jamie Coward (KTS Racing powered by Steadplan Honda) rounding out the early leaderboard. Only two seconds covered the front four riders.

Todd’s lead was down to half a second as he jumped Ballaugh for the first time and it was Hickman now in second. Dunlop was third, almost two seconds down on Hickman, as Harrison, Hillier and Coward continued to run fourth to sixth.

Round Ramsey Hairpin for the first time and the gap remained half a second between the leading two riders but Harrison had now moved ahead of Dunlop for third albeit by only 0.02 seconds! It was close for fifth too as less than a second split Hillier and Coward in the battle for fifth.

There was little to choose between Todd and Hickman at the Bungalow with just 0.08 seconds between them as they were continuing to edge away from the chasing pack but with an opening lap of 133.362mph, it was Todd who led as they came in for their compulsory pit stop. Hickman (133.137mph) lost a bit of time from the Bungalow and was now 1.7 seconds adrift whilst Dunlop (132.639mph) was back in third, just a second ahead of Harrison (132.517mph).

Coward had now taken over fifth from Hillier as Josh Brookes on the second FHO Racing machine, Conor Cummins (Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles Honda), Mike Browne (IN Competition Aprilia) and John McGuinness (Honda Racing UK) rounded out the top ten.

With a quicker pit stop, Todd was almost five seconds clear as he reached Glen Helen on the second lap with Dunlop having also pulled clear of Harrison in the battle for third, the gap now 3.8 seconds. Hillier and McGuinness were now in fifth and sixth although Coward was clearly having transponder issues as he was still running with McGuinness on the road. Brookes lost almost a minute in the pits though and slipped back to 16th.

Hickman took almost two seconds out of Todd’s lead on the high-speed run to Ballaugh and it was 2.4 seconds through Ramsey for the second time but James Hind (North Lincs Components Suzuki) was out of luck again retiring from 14th at Greeba Bridge. Fellow Suzuki rider Michael Evans was also out, the Manxman having stopped at Union Mills.

The lead had further reduced at the Bungalow at 2.1 seconds but as they started the third and final lap, Todd had added another four tenths of a second to his lead. It looked to be a two-horse race as Dunlop was now more than seven seconds adrift in third. He in turn was more than four seconds clear of fellow Honda rider Harrison.

The lead was back down to 2.3 seconds through Glen Helen for the final time and by Ballaugh, it was very much ‘game on’ as Hickman had closed to within half a second with only half a lap remaining!

Todd responded on the run to Ramsey though and doubled his advantage with just the final run up and with the Mountain to go and the gap remained the same at the Bungalow as Todd and Hickman set almost identical sector times from Ramsey Hairpin.

However, Todd was quicker from the Bungalow to Cronk Ny Mona, and he got the verdict from Hickman by 2.2 seconds, who set the fastest lap of the race at 135.140mph, with Dunlop a comfortable third, almost 18 seconds behind. Harrison was only 3.6 seconds adrift at the chequered flag as fellow Honda riders Hillier and Coward took strong fifth and sixth place finishes.

McGuinness, Cummins, Dominic Herbertson (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing BMW) and Browne completed the top ten with Brookes taking 11th after Nathan Harrison on the third Honda Racing machine unfortunately retired at Kate’s Cottage on the final lap.

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: Mugello 2024 – The Dog’s Days Are Over

David Swarts

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June 6, 2024

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Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: Mugello 2024 – The Dog’s Days Are Over

Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.

This podcast is “Mugello 2024 – The Dog’s Days Are Over.”

The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

Normally, something either does or does not grab our attention. But is it possible for something to be incredibly interesting because it is dull as dishwater? That’s what Mat and Peter are wondering this week about the race at Mugello. To watch it was a bloody bore, but the reasons for that are way more exciting than you might think…

This week, we’ve got the best ways to overtake and steal the perfect line, look at the nature of road rage geezers, Peter argues why he wants to buy Bastianini an alarm clock and we talk about why we don’t talk about Acosta very often.

Cheers!

Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!

FIM MiniGP World Final Expanded For 2024

David Swarts

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June 6, 2024

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FIM MiniGP World Final Expanded For 2024

2024 FIM MiniGP World Final

The 2024 FIM MiniGP World Final will be the biggest yet, with 22 160cc Series and 11 190cc Series set to take part in the event. For the 160cc category, it’s the top two riders from each competition who will join the final, and for the 190cc class, it’s the top three as the category continues to grow.

The 160cc Series expands in 2024 with new series in the Baltic, China, Latin America and Philippines, with the Netherlands also returning to the competition.

The top two riders in the FIM MiniGP Series from Australia, Austria, Baltic, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latin America, Malaysia, Netherlands, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Spain, the UK, and the FIM MiniCUP USA series will be invited to the final, making it 44 initial entrants for the 160cc series World Final.

The 190cc Series sees new series run in France, Germany, Indonesia and UK, with series that have run a 160cc competition eligible to add the 190cc class.

The top three riders in the FIM MiniGP Series from Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Spain, the UK, and the FIM MiniCUP USA comprise the 33 entrants for the 190cc World Final.

In addition, the 2023 champions of both the 160cc and 190cc categories – Qabil Ifan from Malaysia (160cc) and Alvaro Lucas from Spain (190cc) – are invited to participate in the 2024 final regardless of their Championship positions.

Since both champions are competing in the 190cc category this year, the number of riders in the World Final could increase to 35 for the class and a total of 79 overall, should neither of them finish in the top 3 of their respective championships.

With 44 finalists from the 160cc Series World Final and 33 from the 190cc Series, as well as the Champions, the World Final in Valencia will see up to 79 riders taking part – a new record!

SAVE THE DATES

The 2024 FIM MiniGP World Final takes place ahead of the Valencia GP at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Admin for competitors begins on Sunday 10th of November, before the first practice sessions see riders take to the kart track on Tuesday the 12th.

Qualifying will then take place on Wednesday the 13th, before all the racing action takes place on Thursday the 14th, crowning two new Champions for 2024. Check out the new schedule for the biggest World Final yet!

Time Schedule Valencia HERE

THE FORMAT

160cc: 22 SERIES – 44 RIDERS

For the 160cc class, there will be three groups for Free Practices: two groups of 15 riders and one group of 14 riders.

Following these sessions, the first round of qualifying (Q1) will feature the lowest ranked 18 riders from the Free Practices.

The second qualifying session (Q2) will include the second fastest 14 riders from the initial sessions plus the top four from Q1, making a total of 18 riders.

The third and final qualifying session (Q3) will consist of the top 12 riders from Free Practice along with four additional riders from Q2, totalling 16 riders.

The top 20 riders after these sessions will go directly to the Races, and the bottom 24 will go to Qualifying Race 1.

In the Qualifying Races, the first race (Qualifying Race 1) will have 24 riders, with the top two advancing into the Races. The second Qualifying Race will include the 22 remaining riders, with the winner advancing to the Races.

The Races will comprise 20 riders plus the three qualifiers from the Qualifying Races, making a total of 23 riders.

After the Races, the top 23 riders in the championship will access the Super Final Race with double points.

190cc: 11 SERIES – 33 RIDERS

For the 190cc class, Free Practices will be conducted in three groups, each containing 11 riders.

According to personal best time of all Free Practices, the combined classification will determine the riders going into each qualifying session.

The first qualifying session (Q1) will have the bottom 14 riders. The second qualifying session (Q2) will feature the second fastest 11 riders from the initial sessions and the top four from Q1, totalling 15 riders. The third qualifying session (Q3) will include the top 8 riders from Free Practices plus four additional riders from Q2, totalling 12 riders.

In the Qualifying Races, the first race will have 18 riders, with the top two advancing to the Races. The second Qualifying Race will include 16 riders, with the winner advancing to the Races.

The Races will consist of 15 riders plus the three qualifiers from the Qualifying Races, making a total of 18 riders.

After the Races, the top 18 riders in the championship will access the Super Final Race, with double points in what has so far proven the deciding showdown of the event.

Join us for live coverage of the final showdowns on the 14th of November in Valencia, the final day of a four-day 2024 FIM MiniGP World Final event opening doors and increasing access to the world’s most exciting sport.

2024 FIM MiniGP World Series Participants GUIDE

About the FIM MiniGP World Series

The FIM MiniGP World Series began in 2021 and is designed as the first step on the Road to MotoGP™. There are three types of competition in the FIM MiniGP World Series: FIM MiniGP National Cup, organised by or through one FMN (national federation); FIM MiniGP Regional Cup, organised by or through various FMNs; FIM MiniGP Continental Cup, organised by or through a CONU (continental union).

There are two classes Series can run: the 160cc class and the 190cc class. The latter debuted in 2023 for Series that have already run a 160cc competition. Riders are aged between 10 and 14 for the 160cc class and between 12 and 16 for the 190cc class. Each Series but must have a minimum of five events comprising 10 races and the top riders in each Series will then be invited to the World Final.

The FIM MiniGP World Final sees the top riders from each Series compete over two days in Valencia ahead of the MotoGP™ season finale. As part of the Road to MotoGP™, there are opportunities up for grabs for riders to move up and further their careers.

About the Road to MotoGP™

For more than two decades, Dorna Sports has invested in opening the doors to motorcycle racing, creating the Road to MotoGP™. Comprising initiatives all over the world providing millions of young riders the opportunity to excel, the Road to MotoGP™ is unrivalled in motorsport – opening doors, increasing access and racing towards global equality.

The FIM MiniGP World Series is the first step on the Road to MotoGP™, in collaboration with the FIM and motorcycle federations and unions around the world. It’s the first global initiative in motorsport aimed at creating grassroots equality.

BMW North America Makes Changes To Communications Department

David Swarts

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June 6, 2024

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BMW North America Makes Changes To Communications Department

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – Manfred Grunert, Vice President, Government Affairs and Communications, Americas, is pleased to announce the following changes within the BMW of North America Corporate Communications team, effective June 1, 2024.

Thomas Plucinsky, currently Head, BMW Group Product Communication will transition to the newly formed position as Head, BMW Group Classic USA. In his new role, Tom will oversee all BMW Group Classic division activities in the USA and Canada. Working closely with the BMW Group Classic in Munich, Tom will be responsible for communications of the BMW Group brands from a historical context. He will work with the various official clubs (car and motorcycle) and individual collectors to strengthen the BMW community in the U.S. and Canada. He will be responsible for growing the classic parts business in North America and will manage the BMW USA Classic Collection fleet of historically significant vehicles, artifacts, and archives. As part of his portfolio of topics, Tom will continue to be responsible for the communications of BMW M Motorsport activities in North America. With 35 years of experience at BMW in a variety of functions, in two subsidiaries, Tom has a deep knowledge of the company and its products plus a genuine passion for the history while also understanding the transformational forces that are currently reshaping the company.

Mariella Kapsaskis, currently Head of BMW NA Corporate Communications, will add oversight of BMW Group product communications to her role, and assume the new title of Department Manager, Corporate and Product Communications. In this new position, Mariella will take on full responsibility for all U.S. corporate, product, and technology communications topics, and management of the U.S. team, with the goal of shaping, promoting, and protecting the reputation of the company, its products, brands, and business in the market both externally and internally.

Mariella’s eighteen years of communications experience spans a variety of sectors from technology to fashion, luxury and automotive both on the agency side and in-house, working on the corporate communications teams both at Lands’ End and later Mercedes-Benz USA. She came to BMW of North America in 2015 to head up corporate and product communications for MINI USA and has taken on various leadership roles in the department since then.

Both Tom and Mariella will report directly to Manfred Grunert.

As part of this new structure, Phil DiIanni will take on an expanded role in the department. In addition to his current responsibilities as the U.S. corporate communications and external media relations lead for business, sales, marketing, and culture topics, Phil will now also have responsibility and oversight for technology, innovation, and sustainability communications and initiatives.

Alex Schmuck, currently Manager, BMW Product & Technology Communications and BMW Performance Center Communications also expands his area of responsibility to include oversight of MINI and BMW Motorrad communications in the U.S. He will assume the new title of Manager, BMW Group Product Communications, U.S.

Kathryn Vallis adds digital communications to her current responsibilities for internal and executive communications and assumes the new title of Sr. Specialist Executive, Internal and Digital Communications. Kathryn is currently responsible for the planning and execution of all employee communications, internal events and initiatives, across the BMW Group business units in the U.S. She will now also have oversight and responsibility for the digital communications tools for the department including press websites, media analytics, and the corporate communications social channels.

Esther Mansfield adds strategy, planning, and steering to her current scope and assumes the new title of Sr. Specialist BMW Group Corporate Communications Events. In this position, Esther will continue to oversee all BMW Group media activations in the U.S. while expanding her responsibilities to lead the alignment between BMW Group communication strategies and goals with existing and new communication event platforms.

Phil, Alex, Kathryn, and Esther will report directly to Mariella Kapsaskis.

Isle Of Man TT: Supertwin TT Race One Report

David Swarts

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June 5, 2024

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Isle Of Man TT: Supertwin TT Race One Report

Editorial Note: Due to heavy rain fall and standing water around the course, the RL360 Superstock TT Race One has been postponed until Thursday, June 6.

DUNLOP MAKES HISTORY WITH 27TH TT WIN IN METZELER SUPERTWIN TT RACE

History was made at the Isle of Man TT Races as Michael Dunlop won the Metzeler Supertwin TT Race 1 for a record-breaking 27th victory to become the most successful rider in TT history, breaking the 24-year old record of 26 TT wins held by his uncle Joey.

Michael Dunlop won his record-breaking 27th Isle of Man TT race Wednesday. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.

Dunlop led from start to finish to win by 20.4 seconds from Peter Hickman (Swan Racing Yamaha), in a race-record time of 56 minutes 15.993 seconds, with Dominic Herbertson (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing Paton) claiming a maiden TT podium in third.

Getting underway at 11.45am, Dunlop was quickest to Glen Helen on the opening lap, his advantage over Herbertson already 3.2 seconds with Rob Hodson (SMT Racing Paton) only two tenths of a second further back in third. They were followed by Jamie Coward (KTS Racing powered by Steadplan Kawasaki). Hickman and Mike Browne (Scott Racing Aprilia).

Dunlop doubled his lead on the run to Ballaugh and, having started sixth, was already third on the road, and by Ramsey, the Northern Irishman had extended the gap to Herbertson to nine seconds he rounded Ramsey Hairpin for the first time. Hickman had moved up to third, only half a second behind Herbertson, with Coward, Hodson and Browne still very much in touch with the podium positions.

An opening lap of 121.044mph gave Dunlop a 10.2 second advantage over new second placed rider Hickman (119.950mph), as they came in for their mandatory put stop. Herbertson (119.420mph) had fallen five seconds behind the 14-time winner with Coward (119.419mph), Browne (119.104mph) and Hodson (118.949mph) rounding out the top six. Paul Jordan, a podium finisher in 2022, retired at the pits though with team-mate Josh Brookes losing time when his Rev2Race Yamaha refused to fire.

Further back, Davey Todd (Dafabet Racing Kawasaki) was running in seventh ahead of Barry Furber (DC Autos Newtown Yamaha) and Michael Rutter (Bathams Ales Yamaha), who were separated by just a tenth of a second, and last year’s Senior Manx Grand Prix winner Joe Yeardsley (Team ILR/Frog Vehicle Developments Paton).

Dunlop added half a second to his lead round as he reached Glen Helen on the second lap but showed his prowess on the high-speed run to Ballaugh with the lead shooting up to 13s and round Ramsey Hairpin for the second time, he was looking secure in the lead as he extended his lead over Hickman to 14 seconds. Hickman had now overhauled Herbertson on the road with the latter still holding onto the final podium position. Browne was only 2.5 seconds adrift though in fourth.

Heading into the third and final lap, Hickman had taken two seconds back on Dunlop, the gap between the two rivals now 12 seconds as they started the final 37.73 miles. Herbertson, in turn, was a further 14 seconds back in third and his advantage over Browne was only 5 seconds. Coward was still in the hunt for third as he was only 1.2 seconds back on Browne.

Having seen his lead reduced, Dunlop responded and by Glen Helen, he’d stretched the lead to a more commanding 17.3 seconds but whilst Herbertson was looking more secure in third, Browne was seemingly having trouble though, later confirming an oil leak, and had slipped back to fifth with Coward overhauling him. Hodson’s strong ride ended with retirement at the Bottom of Bray Hill.

Dunlop was now running on the road with Coward in his slipstream – the latter claiming the quickest ever sector time from Ballaugh to Ramsey – with Hickman and Herbertson doing likewise but the gap between first and second was continuing to increase and as Dunlop took the chequered flag, his lap of 122.434mph gave him a history-making victory over Hickman by 20.4 seconds.

The race for third saw Herbertson come out on top for his first ever TT podium, 5.4 seconds ahead of Coward as both riders lapped at more than 121mph on their final lap, Browne held on for fifth ahead of Todd, Rutter, Yeardsley, AJ Venter (TH Racing Kawasaki) Pierre-Yves Bian (VAS Engine Paton).

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Racing For Ducati Factory Team Through 2026

David Swarts

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June 5, 2024

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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Racing For Ducati Factory Team Through 2026

Marc Márquez to Join Francesco Bagnaia in The Ducati Lenovo Team Until 2026

The Spanish rider will replace Enea Bastianini in the official Ducati MotoGP team starting next season

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce that an agreement with Marc Márquez has been reached for the next two years. At the end of the current season, which sees the Spanish rider riding aboard the Desmosedici GP machine of the Gresini Racing MotoGP team, the eight-time World Champion (31 years of age) will join the Ducati Lenovo Team alongside Francesco Bagnaia, where he will ride the Borgo Panigale-based team’s red bike until 2026.

Luigi Dall’Igna (General Manager of Ducati Corse):

“First of all, I want to thank both Enea Bastianini and Jorge Martín for all their work with us over the last few years, and I wish them all the best for the future. This season, they have shown they have reached an incredible level, and we are sure they will be in the Title fight until the end. Deciding on Bagnaia’s new teammate in the Ducati Lenovo Team was not easy, as we had a list of very strong riders to choose from. In the end, our choice fell on an unquestionable talent like Marc Márquez. In just a few races, he has managed to adapt perfectly to our Desmosedici GP, and his innate ambition pushes him to grow continuously. In the box, we will have two riders who together hold 11 World Titles, and being able to count on their experience and maturity will be invaluable for our growth as well.”

Marc Márquez:

“I am very happy to be able to wear the red colours of the factory Ducati team in MotoGP next season. Basically, from the first contact with the Desmosedici GP, I enjoyed riding it and adapted well straight away. From that moment on, I knew that my goal was to continue this path, to continue to grow, and to move to the team where Pecco Bagnaia has been the World Champion for two years in a row. I am happy to be able to take this big step in 2025 and grateful for the trust Ducati has placed in me. Finally, I want to thank Nadia, Carlo, Michele, and the entire Gresini Racing family for opening the door of their team to me at a delicate time in my career. Now, we will continue to have fun and give it our all in what remains of the current season, which is my priority right now.”

American Matsudaira Takes Top-10 Finish At Valencia

David Swarts

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June 5, 2024

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American Matsudaira Takes Top-10 Finish At Valencia

American Kensei Matsudaira Takes Top 10 Finish in ESBK PreMoto3 Race in Valencia, Nathan Gouker Injured in ESBK Moto4 Race

The second round of the RFME ESBK Spanish Superbike Championship was held this past weekend at Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain. Americans Kensei Matsudaira and Nathan Gouker raced respectively in the PreMoto3 and Moto4 categories.

Kensei Matsudaira entered the weekend on a high note after a top 5 finish in the opening round of the championship in Jerez, but suffered a crash in free practice and with scattered rains throughout the day, was not able to find a good setup going into qualifying. He ended the qualifying session in the gravel without being able to set a fast lap, and was relegated to starting from 21st on the grid for the two races of the weekend.

In Race 1 on Saturday, Kensei made a good start and worked his way forward to take the checkered flag in 13th, continuing his points-earning streak. Kensei again fought from the back on Sunday in Race 2, showing an even faster pace and finally finishing the race in 10th place.

Kensei Matsudaira:

“It was a difficult weekend with 2 crashes and starting from so far back. I made pretty good starts in both races and worked my way up as quickly as possible, but it wasn’t enough to catch the top group. In the first race it was difficult to even set a decent pace since I was fighting with chatter the entire race, but in the second race we made some changes and it was better and I could fight much closer to the front. I was able to lead the 2nd group for most of the race but in the end I was just beaten to the line and finished P10. Tough weekend and overall could have been better, but we made some progress and I’m looking forward to the next race in Estoril.”

Nathan Gouker began the weekend with a strong showing, finishing free practice in 5th and qualifying 13th out of 20 riders. After a good start, Nathan was fighting in the middle of a large group when he crashed after contact with another rider. Unfortunately, Nathan injured his arm in the crash and was transported to the hospital, bringing an end to his race weekend.

Nathan Gouker:

“I want to thank all the fans and our team’s supporters for coming out this week. Unfortunately I made a small mistake going into T2 on lap 5, I couldn’t get the bike stopped and ran into the back of another rider causing me to go over the bike and land on my arm breaking my humerus. I’m sorry to all the fans that came to see us race at our home track. I hate that I will miss a few rounds, hopefully just two, but I know I’ll be back stronger and more determined to get to the front and battle. Thank you to everyone that has sent positive wishes and thoughts, we appreciate it very much.”

The team wishes Nathan a speedy recovery and encouragement to come back even stronger.

The next race, round 3 of the RFME ESBK Spanish Superbike Championship will be held at Circuito Estoril in Estoril, Portugal on July 6-7.

There are still openings within the team for additional riders interested in wildcard opportunities or joining the ESBK championship in the Moto4 and PreMoto3 categories. Please direct all team inquiries to: [email protected]

The Ajevo Nox#27 Racing Team is supported by: Comodity Window Films, Alquilocar, FRC Fercometal, Reprocenter, Nadalfret, Viel Carrocerias

Kensei Matsudaira is supported by: Evike.com, Iconic Motorbikes, HJC Helmets, Dave Designs, Bullit Electric Cycles, Bison Track, TJ Corse, Alpinestars, Almassera El Teular, Project SLUSH, Moto Tecnica, California Superbike School, Slacker by Motool, Bickle Racing, MadLabs Minimoto, 73 Moto Parts, D.I.D Chain, Yoshimura R&D, NLAB Studio & Wraps, Karen E. Ott Photography, VNM Sport, Galfer USA, Vortex Racing, Hans King, The Starting Grid, Moto Survival School, Mini Moto Alliance, Live 100 Moto

Nathan Gouker is supported by: Stadler, CP Motorsports, Bob Robbins, Quarterly Racing, NGS Racing, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Cornerspin, Fastglass Media, Motul USA, 64degrees Racing, 35 Motorsports, FormaBootsUSA, Carolina Supermoto, Ride Supermoto, Daniels Tire

About Our Sponsors

For over two decades, Evike.com has been the world’s most trusted innovator and retailer of airsoft training equipment. Evike.com is the exclusive manufacturer, distributor, and authorized repair center of many premier airsoft brands in the sporting, military/law enforcement training, movie/film and commercial markets. The core values of innovation, a passion for quality, safety, and a personal touch in providing unparalleled customer support have made Evike.com second to none in the industry.

Iconic Motorbikes is a premier motorcycle dealership and online auction house that builds, restores, and sells classic sportbikes and motorcycles. With their expertise and passion for all motorbikes, they provide exceptional service and a seamless buying experience for motorcycle enthusiasts all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a vintage bike to restore or a modern sportbike to hit the road, Iconic Motorbikes has something for every rider.

STADLER is a world-leader in designing, manufacturing, and installing post-consumer materials recovery facilities. Successful systems built by Stadler include those for sorting, screening and complete Material Recovery Solutions for MSW, co-mingled & single-stream, paper & OCC, lightweight packaging, plastic bottles, C&I, C&D, & RDF. STADLER has installed more than 300 complete turn-key recycling plants 10.000 single machines worldwide. STADLER’s high quality engineering and manufacturing is currently under its 8th generation of family ownership and is based in Germany with offices on every inhabited continent.

Results - ESBK 2024 PreMoto3 Round 2 Valencia
Results - ESBK 2024 Moto4 Round 2 Valencia

Kawasaki Announces All-New KX250 And Other 2025 Models

David Swarts

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June 4, 2024

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Kawasaki Announces All-New KX250 And Other 2025 Models

KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES NEW AND RETURNING MOTORCYCLE MODELS FOR 2025

BE NEXT

ALL-NEW 2025 KX™250 and KX™250X Motorcycles

Over the past five decades, the Kawasaki KX™ series has been instrumental in guiding motocross riders to the podium. Drawing inspiration from the Monster Energy® Pro Circuit Kawasaki racing team, the newly redesigned KX250 is a force to be reckoned with on any motocross track with an improved chassis, an updated engine, and all-new Power Mode Selection and Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC). Plus, cutting-edge technology like ERGO-FIT® components and RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX offer maximum adjustability, so you can find your unique winning style.

A 2025-model Kawasaki KX250X. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

KX™250 / KX™250X Highlights:

• NEW Engine tuning

• NEW Cylinder head

• NEW Straight exhaust port and center exhaust

• NEW Smartphone connectivity

• NEW Handlebar-mounted traction control switch

• NEW Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame

• NEW ODI Lock-On grips

• NEW Easy-to-remove side cover

• NEW Slim ergonomic bodywork

• NEW KTRC and riding modes

• NEW Suspension settings (KX250X)

• Kickstand (KX250X)

• 18-inch rear wheel (KX250X)

• Dunlop AT81 off-road tires (KX250X)

• Sealed chain (KX250X)

A 2025-model Kawasaki Elektrode® 20. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

EVERY DAY IS ELECTRIC

ALL-NEW 2025 ELEKTRODE® 20 and ELEKTRODE® 20FS Electric Balance Bikes

Keeping the excitement going, Kawasaki introduces the Elektrode® 20 tailored for taller kids and adolescents, and the Elektrode® 20FS, tailored for teens as they move onto motorcycles. Both models feature 20-inch wheels, catering to riders advancing from smaller Elektrode bikes or those embracing riding for the first time at a later stage in life. Built with long run-time, top speed up to 24 mph, and quick acceleration, these bikes are engineered to have the most fun. No matter where you’re headed, easy adjustability and smooth handling makes everyday riding more enjoyable.

ELEKTRODE® 20 / ELEKTRODE®20FS Highlights:

• NEW Powerful 750W in-wheel brushless electric motor

• NEW Chainless drive and silent operation

• NEW Premium disc brakes

• NEW Long-lasting in-frame battery with up to 3 hours of running time*

• NEW Telescopic front fork

• NEW Large 20” spoke wheels

• NEW High max speed* with three selectable speed modes

• NEW KX-inspired styling (Elektrode 20)

• NEW Street BMX styling (Elektrode 20FS)

• NEW Large 20-inch spoke wheels with BMX tires (Elektrode 20FS)

• NEW Rigid front fork (Elektrode 20FS)

A 2025-model Kawasaki KLX230R. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

GET OUT AND PLAY

NEW 2025 KLX®230R and KLX®230R S Motorcycles

Building upon the legacy of its predecessors, the 2025 KLX®230R and KLX®230R S models retain the essence of what has made the KLX230R a beloved favorite among off-road enthusiasts. With enhancements including a larger fuel tank for extended off-road excursions, an improved subframe for lower seat height and enhanced comfort, and updated aggressive KX™-inspired styling, the KLX230R stands proudly among Kawasaki’s esteemed off-road lineup.

KLX®230R / KLX®230R S Highlights:

• NEW 233cc fuel-injected engine with improved low-mid range power

• NEW compact perimeter frame with low seat height

• NEW revised seat design with thicker urethane

• NEW riding position for increased control

• NEW larger, steel 2-gallon fuel tank

• NEW KX-inspired styling with seamless bodywork

• Long-travel front and rear suspension

• Full-size 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels

In addition, the following motorcycle models are returning for 2025:

KLX®300

KLX®300SM

KLX® 300R

KLX® 140R

KLX® 140R L

KLX® 140R F

KLX® 110R

KLX® 110R L

KX™112

KX™85

KX™65

KX™450

KX™450X

Ninja® ZX™-10R

Ninja® ZX™-10RR ABS

Ninja® ZX™-6R

Ninja® 650

Canadian Superbike: Championship Heading To Grand Bend Motorplex

David Swarts

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June 4, 2024

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Canadian Superbike: Championship Heading To Grand Bend Motorplex

Superbike Preview: Young carries championship lead into round two at Grand Bend

Hamilton, ON – The second round of the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will roll onto beautiful Lake Huron this weekend, as Ben Young looks to extend his early advantage in the feature Superbike class at the Grand Bend Motorplex, June 7-9, presented by Southwest Marine & Powersport.

The three-time Canada Cup champion and two-time defending title winner showed just why he owns the #1 plate at the Shannonville opener, conquering both races and turning in an especially dominant showing in race two to open up a ten-point gap atop the GP Bikes Pro Superbike standings.

Young was certainly tested in race one, dropping back as low as fourth before having to claw his way through on rivals Trevor Dion, Jordan Szoke, and finally Sam Guerin, but his race two victory was a much bigger statement as he cruised to a comfortable 17-second win.

Looking at Young’s history around Grand Bend, it’s hard not to expect more of the same this weekend.

The Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider nearly scored his first career CSBK victory at the circuit, finishing second to Szoke in a nail-biter in 2018 before taking his maiden win later that year, and he has been virtually unbeatable at the circuit ever since with three wins in the last four races at Grand Bend.

As if that isn’t an impressive enough streak in itself, Young’s only loss over that span came in a wet race two last season after he crashed on the warmup lap, allowing rival Alex Dumas to end his run of success at the venue.

Bad luck aside, Young won’t have to deal with Dumas this time around, putting a big ask on the likes of Szoke, Guerin, and Dion, amongst others.

Should any misfortune come back around for the reigning champ, however, Szoke could be the one most prepared to return to the top step of the box.

The 14-time champion admittedly hasn’t been as strong around Grand Bend as nearly every other track in his career, but he is still a former winner at the circuit and has looked rejuvenated in 2024, showing signs of his old self aboard the CKM Kawasaki as he continues to recover from his 2022 injuries.

Guerin, meanwhile, could be in for a crucial weekend as he enters as the closest challenger to Young behind a pair of runner-up finishes in the opener.

The EFC Group BMW star has been solid but unspectacular in his career at Grand Bend, finishing inside the top-five in all four appearances but taking only a single podium (third) in race two last season. However, Guerin did look like a stronger version of himself than ever before at round one, something that will be put to the test in round two as he tries to keep his title hopes in good shape.

As for Szoke’s former teammate Dion, the local rider left SMP with a warning shot to his competitors, saying he’s “looking forward to being on top” in Grand Bend, and it may not be far-fetched to think he can back it up this weekend.

The Economy Lube Ducati star has had his fair share of technical struggles aboard the V4R Panigale – to the point where he was forced to jump aboard a BMW in race two at Shannonville – but he is a former pole-sitter at Grand Bend and knows the track well from his days with the SOAR regional series.

Dion won’t be the only local star to contend with, however, as David MacKay will put his extensive track knowledge to good use in his second weekend aboard the ODH Snow City Cycle Honda.

The reigning Pro Sport Bike champion has more laps around Grand Bend than anyone else on the grid, and while only some of them have come aboard the new machine, his performances at Shannonville proved he won’t need much of a teething period.

There’s a strong chance MacKay won’t be the only frontrunning Honda either, as fellow SOAR regular Chris Pletsch is expected to make a return appearance after a spectacular one-off at his home track last season.

Pletsch made his national Superbike debut and was an instant contender, qualifying second to Young and finishing second in race two aboard his Stratford Cycle Centre Honda, and there’s little reason to doubt he can be back in the podium mix this weekend.

Like MacKay, another former Sport Bike champion will enter the Motorplex with bigger expectations, as Sebastien Tremblay will hope to replicate his strong opener for Turcotte Performance Suzuki.

Tremblay is at a slight disadvantage aboard his lesser-powered GSX-R750, the same machine he pilots in the Sport Bike ranks, but that should have less of an impact around the tight, narrow first half of the Grand Bend layout as he tries to pick up valuable points for Suzuki.

The two weeks of rest after round one will be a welcome boost for rookie Connor Campbell, after fighting through rib injuries to take a pair of top-ten finishes at Shannonville.

The B&T MacFarlane/Kubota Kawasaki rider dealt with injury and mechanical issues as a Sport Bike rider at Grand Bend last season, but will hope for a healthier return in 2024 as he tries to extend his lead in the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year award standings.

Campbell’s form could also be crucial for Kawasaki in the Constructors Standings, as he and “satellite teammate” Szoke look to trim their 42-point deficit to BMW in round two.

A perfect weekend for Young and Guerin (taking the maximum 45 points in each race) has already put the pressure on Kawasaki and the rest of the field, and a repeat performance for the pair could see them extend an insurmountable gap by round three.

Kawasaki will be equally as vulnerable to Ducati, Honda, and Yamaha behind them, however, especially with Honda receiving some vital reinforcements in the form of Pletsch.

The weekend schedule for the GP Bikes Pro Superbike class, as well as the other six national classes, can be found on the series’ official website.

MotoAmerica: Vance Family Foundation Donating $125,000 To RWAF

June 6, 2024

RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team owner Terry Vance is set to donate $125,000 to the "Rainey's Ride To The Races" event through the Terry Vance Family Foundation. The money will go to the Roadracing World Action Fund for the purchase of Airfence and Alpina soft barriers. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.