HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES CONTINGENCY PROGRAMS FOR 2024 RACE SEASON
More than $570,000 Available for Harley-Davidson Racers in American Flat Track and MotoAmerica Mission Foods King of the Baggers and Super Hooligan Series
MILWAUKEE (Dec. 20, 2023) – Harley-Davidson is boosting its support of racing competitors for the 2024 season with cash contingency programs totaling more than $570,000. This will be available for qualified H-D racers competing in select classes in the American Flat Track series, and the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship.
The Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing Team will compete in the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King Of The Baggers road racing series in 2024 with riders Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli aboard race modified Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycles powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight 131 Performance Crate Engines. In addition, privateer teams racing Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the series can benefit from racing contingency and available racing parts for purchase.
Mission Foods King Of The Baggers Contingency
The Mission Foods King of The Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with stock frames and a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 King of The Baggers series is expanded to 16 races over eight doubleheader weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike series. The series opens on the high banks of Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, March 7-9. Harley-Davidson will offer a $263,000 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Mission Foods King Of The Baggers series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $35,000 championship bonus. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Mission Foods Super Hooligan Contingency
New for 2024, Harley-Davidson will offer contingency opportunities for racers competing in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship Brought To You By Roland Sands Design. The road racing series features 750cc-and-up high-bar race-prepared street bikes. Held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike series, the Super Hooligan Championship includes 10 races over five double-header weekends, beginning with two races at Daytona International Speedway March 7-9. Harley-Davidson will offer a $123,000 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Harley-Davidson will offer contingency opportunities for racers competing in the premier SuperTwins class on the 16-event 2024 Progressive American Flat Track series, the most prestigious and competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing in the world. Harley-Davidson has committed $185,000 in contingency funds for qualified SuperTwins class riders. Harley-Davidson contingency will pay first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. The season opens March 7-8 with the Daytona Short Track double-header at Daytona International Speedway. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Tom Birchall, the most successful Sidecar passenger in TT history, has announced his immediate retirement from racing.
Alongside older brother Ben, the Birchalls have taken 14 TT race victories and been the dominant force on three wheels over the last decade, winning every single race that they finished since 2013 with only 3 DNF’s blotting a near-perfect run of results.
Over that period the pair have repeatedly re-written the record books, recording the first ever 117, 118, 119, and 120mph laps of the TT Course in the Sidecar class.
The 120mph barrier was smashed earlier this year where – on the 100th anniversary of Sidecar racing at the TT – they set their latest lap record of 120.645mph and also set another new race record in the process.
Away from the Isle of Man, Tom leaves the sport as both a 4-time Sidecar World Champion and a British Champion.
Tom Birchall (right) with older brother Ben Birchall (left) after doing a lap at over 120 mph average speed on their sidecar rig during the 2023 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.
Tom Birchall – “It’s not been an easy decision to make by any means, but it’s now 20 years since I first got in an outfit alongside Ben and it’s 10 years since we took our first TT win, something we dreamt about as kids when we used to come on family holidays to watch. And so having achieved what we have and having broken that 120mph barrier this year, the timing feels as right as it can do.”
“The TT is the pinnacle for me and while it might only be a couple weeks of the year, it takes a lot of sacrifices and hard work all year round to get to a level that allows us to keep pushing and pushing.”
“Now feels like the time to take a break from that cycle and start a new chapter in life, but Ben knows I’ll always be there in any way I can to keep the Birchall name on top.”
“The list of people to thank is too long, but I’d like to give a special mention to the marshals and the medics, and the amazing TT fans that have made racing on the Island so special for me over the years. It’s been a real privilege and an honour. I’ll always love it and I’ll be there in 2024, either as part of the team or with a beer on the side of the road cheering Ben on.”
Ben Birchall – “I can only thank him for what he’s done. Racing together has been our way of life for so long now that, in a way, you take it for granted. It’s only now that Tom’s decided to step away that I’ve been able to appreciate what an incredible career he’s had.”
Ben has confirmed he will race with a new passenger in 2024 as he continues to close down on the record number of TT wins for a Sidecar driver – a title currently held by Dave Molyneux with 17 race victories. An announcement on who will line up alongside him is expected in the new year.
“It will feel totally different and take time to get used to competing without him, but I’m still totally committed racing and so it’s the start of a new and exciting chapter.”
“It genuinely has been a journey, racing all around the world plus all the development of the bikes that people won’t see, too. None of it would have been possible without Tom. We’ve made history and to have done that with my brother has just made it even more special.”
December 16th – 17th 2023 Chuckwalla Valley Raceway
Round three of the CVMA 23/24 Winter Series featured awesome racing and incredible weather. Sunny skies and warm temperatures welcomed a near-record number of racers to Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some fantastic, close racing! Chuckwalla Valley Raceway’s track surface seems to be improving with use as multiple new lap records were set throughout the weekend.
On Friday, the CVMA New Racers School graduated six motorcycle riders who are now licensed motorcycle racers and part of the CVMA Racing family. The New Racer Race had some close battles and the final spot on the podium was decided with a last-lap pass in the final corner.
Saturday Qualifying
The fastest of all in Saturday morning qualifying, Andrew Lee posted a 1:44.053 lap time on his open-class bike. Lee was also fastest on a middleweight with a blistering 1:45.325 lap time. Alexander Enriquez was fastest on a lightweight bike with a 1:52.333 lap time. Rossi Moor was fastest on an ultra-lightweight bike with a 1:52.186 lap time and Alexander Calloway was fastest on an American Twin with a 2:01.792 lap time.
Saturday Races
Bobby Fong broke a long-standing lap record in the Formula Middleweight class, turning a 1:44.968 lap time on a Suzuki GSX-R750. Corey Alexander set a new lap record on his way to winning the Open SuperSport race, turning a 1:43.917 lap. Rossi Moor and Gio Alvarez both won multiple races on Saturday.
Sunday Shootouts
In the premier race of the day, the Stock 1000 Shootout, Corey Alexander got the holeshot but Andrew Lee was able to make a brave outside pass in Turn Six to take the lead away on the first lap. Lee led the first lap with Alexander and Jayson Uribe close behind. Lee and Alexander ran nose to tail for the first few laps with Alexander setting a new lap record for the class on lap three turning a 1:44.203. Just past the halfway point, Alexander was able to pass Lee at the end of the back straight into Turn 11 to take the lead. Alexander bettered the lap record again on lap number seven and yet again on lap eight turning a best lap of 1:43.666. Unfortunately, Lee crashed out of the race on lap eight handing second place to Uribe and third to Anthony “Lugnut” Norton. That set the final order with Alexander taking the win, Uribe second, and Norton third.
Corey Alexander (1) set a new class lap record on his way to winning the CVMA Stock 1000 Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography, courtesy CVMA.
The Formula Lightweight Twins Shootout started with Gio Alvarez getting the holeshot and leading the first lap with Alexander Enriquez and Mallory Dobbs close behind in third. Enriquez made a pass for the lead in Turn 14 on the third lap and set about putting space between his bike and second place. Dobbs made a pass to take over second on lap six but was repassed on the last lap. At the stripe, it was Enriquez for the win, Alvarez second, and Dobbs third.
Gio Alvarez (822) leads Alexander Enriquez (behind Alvarez), Mallory Dobbs (270), and Josh Fogle (114) in the CVMA Formula Lightweight Twins Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
At the start of the Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout, Rossi Moor got the holeshot followed by Jayden Fernandez and Jasmine Nichols at the end of the first lap. On lap five Kensei Matsudaira was able to take third place away from Nichols. The final order was Moor for the win, Fernandez second, and Matsudaira third.
Rossi Moor (192) won the CVMA Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
In the final shootout race of the day, the Middleweight Shootout, Bobby Fong led through the first corner with David “Aussie Dave” Anthony in second and Andrew Lee in third. On his first flying lap, Fong set a new lap record for the class with a 1:44.857. On lap three Owen Williams got around Lee to take third and the final order was set. At the finish, it was Fong for the win, Anthony second, and Williams third.
Bobby Fong (152) won the CVMA Middleweight Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
Lap Records
Lap records were falling like dominos this weekend with no less than six new lap records being set:
With a near record number of racers and fantastic conditions, this past weekend will be one to remember. Racers were going faster than ever and the competition was intense with some of the fastest riders from all over the country coming out to compete with CVMA. Come on out and join us at our next race weekend, January 20-21 2023
CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.
CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting out in racing on the Friday prior to each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.
CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!
CVMA would also like to thank the 2023/2024 Winter Series Sponsors: Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, CaliPhotography, Racers Edge/Dunlop, RoadRace City/Bridgestone, Del’s Flooring, The California Superbike School, Ride HVMC, and YellowDog IT
NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Racer Gloves, and Racers Edge/Dunlop
KurveyGirl.com offers a Replacement Micro Switch for the Brembo line of RCS Brake Master Cylinders. The Micro Switch boasts dual functionality, seamlessly operating in both the traditional NORMALLY CLOSED and newer NORMALLY OPEN electrical modes. Some newer motorcycles require the brake light switch to be operated through a NORMALLY OPEN circuit that is conductive (closed circuit) when the brake lever is released. The Micro Switch is IP67 rating, to withstand various conditions. Experience easy installation with our universal fit wiring connectors included with the Micro Switch. Retail is $75 from KurveyGirl, https://www.kurveygirl.com/products/, (623) 444-5022, Dept. RW, 6404 Grand Bay Ct, McKinney, TX 75071.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Spirit of Sturgis TT: Progressive American Flat Track Hits the Streets for a Historic Debut on August 11, 2024
America’s Original Extreme Sport Takes Over Downtown Sturgis Streets for the final day of the 84th City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 19, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing, in collaboration with Øuterkind and the City of Sturgis, is proud to announce a major new event on the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track schedule: the inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT. This spectacle of motorcycle sport is scheduled for August 11, 2024, coinciding with the final Sunday of the 84th Annual City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, continuing the city’s legacy of motorcycle racing that dates back to 1938.
“The history and the legacy of the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally started with racing,” said Mark Carstensen, mayor of the City of Sturgis. “To host this event, Sturgis is building the bridge to the future.”
The Spirit of Sturgis TT is a culmination of the collaborative effort to combine the rich heritage and tradition of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with American Flat Track’s 70+ years of national championship racing to create a modern-day racing spectacle for fans. This groundbreaking event, taking place in the vibrant heart of downtown Sturgis, will feature an innovative mix of street and dirt sections and will be free for the public to attend.
“The Spirit of Sturgis TT is not just a race; it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, blending tradition with innovation,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “Racing through the storied streets of Sturgis promises a spectacular new chapter in the city’s rich history in motorcycle racing, while offering an unparalleled experience for fans and competitors.”
“The inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT race is an embodiment of our agency’s commitment to delivering an exceptional motorsports experience within the world’s most iconic motorcycle rally.” says Ben Keane, Partner, Øuterkind. “We believe the race will not only captivate the hearts of enthusiasts during this rally but will carve its own legacy to attract new audiences while becoming a sought-after part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for years to come.”
Building on the series’ history of hybrid courses, including past events like the DAYTONA TT and Atlanta Super TT, the Spirit of Sturgis TT is set to offer an unmatched racing experience. The unique setting of racing through the heart of the world-renowned Rally promises to deliver a memorable event for both participants and spectators.
For the first time, Progressive AFT’s Mission SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited Singles presented by KICKER classes will navigate a challenging course through Sturgis’ bustling streets. The 0.5-mile circuit will include legendary Main Street and each race will start and finish at the iconic Harley-Davidson Rally Point.
In a significant expansion for Progressive AFT, the event will also feature the debut of the AFT AdventureTrackers class. This new category will introduce the latest production-based Adventure Bikes, providing the motorcycle industry with an opportunity to showcase the rapidly growing segment. The new class aligns with the City of Sturgis’ tradition of embracing the future of motorcycling and has sparked considerable interest among manufacturers, leading to rumors of high-profile entries for the event.
Full details of the AFT AdventureTrackers class will be announced in the near future as will additional information regarding viewing options for the first annual Spirit of Sturgis TT.
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS TEAMS AND RIDERS
HEP Motorsports and BARX Ready to Attack the 2024 SMX Season
BREA, CA – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to name its riders for the upcoming 2024 Supermotocross season. The HEP Motorsports and BARX Suzuki teams arrive back to represent Suzuki with strong returning talent along with promising new recruits. The Pipes Motorsports Group’s dual team effort will again compete in the 450-class championship. The 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki squad will field a solid lineup of five riders competing for action across both 250 and 450 classes.
For 2024, HEP Motorsports returns with two squads under the HEP canopy: Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki and Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance.
The 2024 Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team features elite rider Ken Roczen (94) competing on the proven Suzuki RM-Z450. Roczen had an extremely successful season in 2023 in his return to Suzuki; earned an emotional win at the Indy Supercross and captured several podium finishes throughout 2023. Roczen’s intelligent, technical riding style and solid performances resulted in a strong second-place finish in the 2023 Supermotocross Championship, and tied for third place in the 2023 Supercross season. Roczen was also crowned the overall winner of the MXGP class at the MX of Nations in France and capped off the season as the 2023 World Supercross Champion.
“I am excited to be back for 2024 with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki Team. We have built a great foundation, and I am eager to continue to try and put our Suzuki on the podium. The team and I are very motivated!” said Roczen.
Ken Roczen (94) is ready to extend his 2023 momentum into continued strong 2024 success. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
HEP Motorsports’ Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance effort continues in 2024 with veteran riders, crowd favorite Kyle Chisholm (11) from Clearwater, FL, and established pro Shane McElrath (12) who hails from Canton, NC.
With off-season training continuing, Kyle Chisholm (11) brings his setup expertise to the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
In 2023, Chisholm brought solid competition and race bike set-up experience to the HEP team while also racing to 17th in the 2023 Supermotocross World Championship. Chisholm earned consistent finishes across the supercross and motocross segments of the season. His testing and development skills behind the scenes were a key element to the HEP team’s 2023 success. With Chisholm’s extensive background in both SX and MX, Chisholm’s behind-the-scenes work, and insights will be instrumental to the HEP team’s continued progression.
“I’m looking forward to the 2024 season with the team. This will be my second year with the team, and I am pleased with all the progress made in 2023 with the RM-Z450 and with the team as a whole. Everyone worked great together, and we are looking to build on that and be even better in 2024. The team is working extremely hard, and we have such a good starting place, I feel we are going to do great things. I am looking forward to the season and having fun and more success with the team,” stated Chisholm.
Shane McElrath (12) eagerly preps for the Supermotocross World Championship at Anaheim 1. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA. LLC.
Alongside Chisholm, the team fields Shane McElrath who returns for 2024 and further augments the team’s 450-class effort to lead the RM Army. A two-time 250 West series championship runner-up, McElrath is anticipating making serious strides in 2024.
“I’m excited to be back with the Twisted Tea Progressive Suzuki Team for the full 2024 season, and am looking forward to continuing to grow and build off of everything learned last season. It’s a strong team, a really good group of people with a lot of experience; so I’m looking to apply their wealth of knowledge this year. I think that will do a lot for me and I’m eager to go racing. We’ll see you all in Anaheim!” said McElrath.
Pipes Motorsports Group Team Principle, Dustin Pipes echoes his riders’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “I am genuinely excited for the 2024 season. The team is working extremely hard in preparation for the season ahead, and we are optimistic to see how it pays off. We have a great group returning with Ken, Shane, and Kyle where we hope to build on the continuity achieved during last season. All our athletes represent the team to the highest standard, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to race with,” commented Pipes.
Respected leader Larry Brooks will continue as HEP’s team manager, and Brooks anticipates continued strong results from both squads. “We are anxious for this upcoming season and motivated for another successful year! We have been working hard this off-season to come into Anaheim 1 ready to race. It’s great to have Ken, Kyle, and Shane return for another season. We made a lot of progress in 2023. We’re looking to continue building in 2024. Ken is coming off a great off-season, winning the World Supercross Championship. Kyle and Shane both had strong off-seasons. A lot of work goes into racing. I look forward to seeing it play out come January 6th at Angel Stadium!” stated Brooks.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki Team
For 2024, Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will primarily race the sharp-handling Suzuki RM-Z250s while also fielding one rider in the 450 class with the Suzuki RM-Z450. BARX will field a team of five young competitors with diverse, progressive backgrounds in multiple SX and MX series. Each has the same desire and objective of putting BARX Suzuki on the podium in 2024.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will field up-and-coming rider Preston Boespflug (128), a fierce, young competitor climbing up the SMX ranks. From the aptly named Battle Ground, WA, Boespflug carded a promising sixth place in the 250 All-Stars main event at the 2023 SMX World Championship finale. Boespflug brings his strong work ethic and a focused, competitive spirit to the BARX squad. He will gain valuable experience competing in the first round of the Supercross Futures at Anaheim 2 before moving to contest the 250 East series in 2024, his first full SMX season as a pro.
“I’m incredibly excited to start my rookie season on a solid bike. The Suzuki RM-Z250 has been great this preseason and my team has been behind me each step of the way!” exclaimed Boespflug.
Preston Boespflug (128) looks to make an impression with Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in his first pro season. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Former national French 250-class phenom, Anthony Bourdon (945) looks to transfer his global experience to SMX success for BARX in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another substantial addition to the 2024 BARX team is Anthony Bourdon (945), the seven-year pro and the 2020 French Elite national MX2 champion. Hailing from the surfing hotbed of Europe- Seignosse, France, Bourdon has been a solid and stylish SX2 competitor on the world stage, with a strong overall podium result at the 2023 Paris Supercross including a main event win; Bourdon joins BARX to bring his ample riding skills to SMX on the Suzuki RM-Z250.
“I am incredibly happy to race in the US riding with Suzuki. I began my career racing a Suzuki RM85, and I have great memories of the bike; so I am excited to ride again with Suzuki. Coming to the US to ride Supercross is the dream of any Supercross rider, and I am glad Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki and Myron gave me this opportunity. I had a good 2023 season, and I feel great mentally and physically. I will give my absolute best to put the yellow bike on the podium. Let’s keep training and see you at A1,” said Bourdon.
Max Miller (87) joins BARX to challenge for the 250 West series crown. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another solid rider for the 2024 BARX squad is Max Miller (87) from Springfield, OR also competing in the 250 West series. An established pro in his fourth season, Miller brings solid SX experience to the BARX team for 2024. Returning to the BARX fold for 2024 is Alpine, CA racer Dilan Schwartz (40). Schwartz returns having earned top-15 results in the ultra-competitive class in 2023 and will ride the 250 East series.
Derek Drake (52) heads up BARX’s 450-class SMX effort for 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Riding for BARX’s 2024 450-class effort, is San Luis Obispo, CA’s Derek Drake (52). Drake will race the Suzuki RM-Z450 and continue to show the incredible speed displayed during select motocross races last year. Named the 2018 AMA Horizon Award winner, and starting his fifth year as a pro, Drake earned multiple top-twelve results in the 250 West class in 2023.
“I am looking forward to the RM-Z450 this season, this will be a whole new challenge for me that I’m incredibly excited about. We also have some new personnel this year that I enjoy working with so it will be a great year!” said Drake.
Also supported by Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in the 250 class are three up-and-coming amateur riders, each with solid momentum as they approach the pro sport and gain valuable experience against the sport’s best. Nathan Abbott from Simi Valley CA, Cole Timboe from Calimesa, CA, and Leo Tucker from East Dubuque, IL join the BARX squad. With additional support from Suzuki dealer Simi Valley Cycles, these BARX amateur riders will gain solid experience throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season.
For 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will be managed by James Coy. Coy brings a solid team management background as well as strong amateur rider development experience gained over the last decade. Coy seeks to bring BARX together as a real force in both SMX classes while continuing to develop young riders into vital competitors.
“I am thrilled about this new challenge, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki team throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season,” claimed Coy.
Suzuki is excited to race with BARX in the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship and anticipates seeing the entire RM Army at the venues and tracks throughout 2024.
The 2024 Supermotocross season kicks off once more at Angel Stadium on January 6th, 2024, for Anaheim 1.
For more racing news, results, and special team content please visit suzukicycles.com/racing/motocross.
The story is as old as racing circuits are. Land uses change around a popular circuit, neighbors complain, land values go up, and the circuit disappears. The litany of circuits that have been devoured by encroaching development in Southern California alone is disturbing to those who have followed motorsport for decades.
But there is a ray of hope in some areas.
Generating solar power requires lots of land. And solar farms are good neighbors to racetracks. They provide a solid buffer zone, sometimes acres, between the circuit and any other land use. They are not disturbed by noise or traffic. They don’t require a lot of people on site. And once they are established, they are not the sort of uses that are easily displaced by residential, commercial, or other industrial uses.
The solar panel farms surrounding Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Riverside County, California, provide an example. Not that there is a mad rush to develop the area near the Colorado Desert facility, located in an hot, harsh environment that has not exactly attracted the attention of home builders or industry. It is an hour’s drive away from Palm Springs, the closest major population center.
But it is an ideal environment for solar generation. The region is generally sunny, with a mean annual high temperature of 87.4 degrees F and an average rainfall of 3.92 inches. That’s less than 40% of the average rainfall for deserts globally. So the hot, dry, sunny climate has spawned fields of solar panels around the property.
The climate and the adjacent land covered by solar panels help insulate the track from typical problems faced by other tracks, including other forms of development or constant complaints from nearby residents who move near an existing track, then work to close it.
The KYT NZ Race is a race-inspired helmet with a carbon-fiber shell. Extremely lightweight, the NZ Race features an aerodynamic design and industry leading peripheral and vertical fields of vision. Developed with fluid dynamic software and in wind tunnel sessions, the low-drag design reduces neck fatigue, and excellent air flow helps keep the rider cool and prevents fogging. Available in two shell sizes, the KYT NZ Race Carbon exceeds the latest safety standards set by racing organizations worldwide, and is ECE R-22-06 certified. The NZ Race’s light construction and international safety rating puts it in front for everyday usability and safety for street and track. MSRP is $549.99, from KYT dealers or from kytamericas.com.
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 “Winter 2023 – No Rest For the Wicked.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
Kyle Wyman (33) on his Screamin' Eagle Harley-Davidson Road Glide. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES CONTINGENCY PROGRAMS FOR 2024 RACE SEASON
More than $570,000 Available for Harley-Davidson Racers in American Flat Track and MotoAmerica Mission Foods King of the Baggers and Super Hooligan Series
MILWAUKEE (Dec. 20, 2023) – Harley-Davidson is boosting its support of racing competitors for the 2024 season with cash contingency programs totaling more than $570,000. This will be available for qualified H-D racers competing in select classes in the American Flat Track series, and the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship.
The Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing Team will compete in the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King Of The Baggers road racing series in 2024 with riders Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli aboard race modified Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycles powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight 131 Performance Crate Engines. In addition, privateer teams racing Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the series can benefit from racing contingency and available racing parts for purchase.
Mission Foods King Of The Baggers Contingency
The Mission Foods King of The Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with stock frames and a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 King of The Baggers series is expanded to 16 races over eight doubleheader weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike series. The series opens on the high banks of Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, March 7-9. Harley-Davidson will offer a $263,000 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Mission Foods King Of The Baggers series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $35,000 championship bonus. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Mission Foods Super Hooligan Contingency
New for 2024, Harley-Davidson will offer contingency opportunities for racers competing in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship Brought To You By Roland Sands Design. The road racing series features 750cc-and-up high-bar race-prepared street bikes. Held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike series, the Super Hooligan Championship includes 10 races over five double-header weekends, beginning with two races at Daytona International Speedway March 7-9. Harley-Davidson will offer a $123,000 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Harley-Davidson will offer contingency opportunities for racers competing in the premier SuperTwins class on the 16-event 2024 Progressive American Flat Track series, the most prestigious and competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing in the world. Harley-Davidson has committed $185,000 in contingency funds for qualified SuperTwins class riders. Harley-Davidson contingency will pay first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. The season opens March 7-8 with the Daytona Short Track double-header at Daytona International Speedway. Terms and conditions apply; please email [email protected] for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Isle of Man TT race-winning sidecar passenger Tom Birchall (right) is retiring. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.
TOM BIRCHALL ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
Tom Birchall, the most successful Sidecar passenger in TT history, has announced his immediate retirement from racing.
Alongside older brother Ben, the Birchalls have taken 14 TT race victories and been the dominant force on three wheels over the last decade, winning every single race that they finished since 2013 with only 3 DNF’s blotting a near-perfect run of results.
Over that period the pair have repeatedly re-written the record books, recording the first ever 117, 118, 119, and 120mph laps of the TT Course in the Sidecar class.
The 120mph barrier was smashed earlier this year where – on the 100th anniversary of Sidecar racing at the TT – they set their latest lap record of 120.645mph and also set another new race record in the process.
Away from the Isle of Man, Tom leaves the sport as both a 4-time Sidecar World Champion and a British Champion.
Tom Birchall (right) with older brother Ben Birchall (left) after doing a lap at over 120 mph average speed on their sidecar rig during the 2023 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.
Tom Birchall – “It’s not been an easy decision to make by any means, but it’s now 20 years since I first got in an outfit alongside Ben and it’s 10 years since we took our first TT win, something we dreamt about as kids when we used to come on family holidays to watch. And so having achieved what we have and having broken that 120mph barrier this year, the timing feels as right as it can do.”
“The TT is the pinnacle for me and while it might only be a couple weeks of the year, it takes a lot of sacrifices and hard work all year round to get to a level that allows us to keep pushing and pushing.”
“Now feels like the time to take a break from that cycle and start a new chapter in life, but Ben knows I’ll always be there in any way I can to keep the Birchall name on top.”
“The list of people to thank is too long, but I’d like to give a special mention to the marshals and the medics, and the amazing TT fans that have made racing on the Island so special for me over the years. It’s been a real privilege and an honour. I’ll always love it and I’ll be there in 2024, either as part of the team or with a beer on the side of the road cheering Ben on.”
Ben Birchall – “I can only thank him for what he’s done. Racing together has been our way of life for so long now that, in a way, you take it for granted. It’s only now that Tom’s decided to step away that I’ve been able to appreciate what an incredible career he’s had.”
Ben has confirmed he will race with a new passenger in 2024 as he continues to close down on the record number of TT wins for a Sidecar driver – a title currently held by Dave Molyneux with 17 race victories. An announcement on who will line up alongside him is expected in the new year.
“It will feel totally different and take time to get used to competing without him, but I’m still totally committed racing and so it’s the start of a new and exciting chapter.”
“It genuinely has been a journey, racing all around the world plus all the development of the bikes that people won’t see, too. None of it would have been possible without Tom. We’ve made history and to have done that with my brother has just made it even more special.”
Corey Alexander (1) leads Andrew Lee (behind Alexander), Jayson Uribe (behind Lee), Anthony Norton (83), and the rest in the CVMA Stock 1000 Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography, courtesy CVMA.
CVMA Racing Round 3 2023/2024 Winter Series
December 16th – 17th 2023 Chuckwalla Valley Raceway
Round three of the CVMA 23/24 Winter Series featured awesome racing and incredible weather. Sunny skies and warm temperatures welcomed a near-record number of racers to Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some fantastic, close racing! Chuckwalla Valley Raceway’s track surface seems to be improving with use as multiple new lap records were set throughout the weekend.
On Friday, the CVMA New Racers School graduated six motorcycle riders who are now licensed motorcycle racers and part of the CVMA Racing family. The New Racer Race had some close battles and the final spot on the podium was decided with a last-lap pass in the final corner.
Saturday Qualifying
The fastest of all in Saturday morning qualifying, Andrew Lee posted a 1:44.053 lap time on his open-class bike. Lee was also fastest on a middleweight with a blistering 1:45.325 lap time. Alexander Enriquez was fastest on a lightweight bike with a 1:52.333 lap time. Rossi Moor was fastest on an ultra-lightweight bike with a 1:52.186 lap time and Alexander Calloway was fastest on an American Twin with a 2:01.792 lap time.
Saturday Races
Bobby Fong broke a long-standing lap record in the Formula Middleweight class, turning a 1:44.968 lap time on a Suzuki GSX-R750. Corey Alexander set a new lap record on his way to winning the Open SuperSport race, turning a 1:43.917 lap. Rossi Moor and Gio Alvarez both won multiple races on Saturday.
Sunday Shootouts
In the premier race of the day, the Stock 1000 Shootout, Corey Alexander got the holeshot but Andrew Lee was able to make a brave outside pass in Turn Six to take the lead away on the first lap. Lee led the first lap with Alexander and Jayson Uribe close behind. Lee and Alexander ran nose to tail for the first few laps with Alexander setting a new lap record for the class on lap three turning a 1:44.203. Just past the halfway point, Alexander was able to pass Lee at the end of the back straight into Turn 11 to take the lead. Alexander bettered the lap record again on lap number seven and yet again on lap eight turning a best lap of 1:43.666. Unfortunately, Lee crashed out of the race on lap eight handing second place to Uribe and third to Anthony “Lugnut” Norton. That set the final order with Alexander taking the win, Uribe second, and Norton third.
Corey Alexander (1) set a new class lap record on his way to winning the CVMA Stock 1000 Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography, courtesy CVMA.
The Formula Lightweight Twins Shootout started with Gio Alvarez getting the holeshot and leading the first lap with Alexander Enriquez and Mallory Dobbs close behind in third. Enriquez made a pass for the lead in Turn 14 on the third lap and set about putting space between his bike and second place. Dobbs made a pass to take over second on lap six but was repassed on the last lap. At the stripe, it was Enriquez for the win, Alvarez second, and Dobbs third.
Gio Alvarez (822) leads Alexander Enriquez (behind Alvarez), Mallory Dobbs (270), and Josh Fogle (114) in the CVMA Formula Lightweight Twins Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
At the start of the Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout, Rossi Moor got the holeshot followed by Jayden Fernandez and Jasmine Nichols at the end of the first lap. On lap five Kensei Matsudaira was able to take third place away from Nichols. The final order was Moor for the win, Fernandez second, and Matsudaira third.
Rossi Moor (192) won the CVMA Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
In the final shootout race of the day, the Middleweight Shootout, Bobby Fong led through the first corner with David “Aussie Dave” Anthony in second and Andrew Lee in third. On his first flying lap, Fong set a new lap record for the class with a 1:44.857. On lap three Owen Williams got around Lee to take third and the final order was set. At the finish, it was Fong for the win, Anthony second, and Williams third.
Bobby Fong (152) won the CVMA Middleweight Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
Lap Records
Lap records were falling like dominos this weekend with no less than six new lap records being set:
With a near record number of racers and fantastic conditions, this past weekend will be one to remember. Racers were going faster than ever and the competition was intense with some of the fastest riders from all over the country coming out to compete with CVMA. Come on out and join us at our next race weekend, January 20-21 2023
CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.
CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting out in racing on the Friday prior to each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.
CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!
CVMA would also like to thank the 2023/2024 Winter Series Sponsors: Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, CaliPhotography, Racers Edge/Dunlop, RoadRace City/Bridgestone, Del’s Flooring, The California Superbike School, Ride HVMC, and YellowDog IT
NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Racer Gloves, and Racers Edge/Dunlop
A Replacement Micro Switch for the Brembo line of RCS Brake Master Cylinders from KurveyGirl.com. Photo courtesy KurveyGirl.com.
Micro Switch For Brembo RCS Brake Calipers
KurveyGirl.com offers a Replacement Micro Switch for the Brembo line of RCS Brake Master Cylinders. The Micro Switch boasts dual functionality, seamlessly operating in both the traditional NORMALLY CLOSED and newer NORMALLY OPEN electrical modes. Some newer motorcycles require the brake light switch to be operated through a NORMALLY OPEN circuit that is conductive (closed circuit) when the brake lever is released. The Micro Switch is IP67 rating, to withstand various conditions. Experience easy installation with our universal fit wiring connectors included with the Micro Switch. Retail is $75 from KurveyGirl, https://www.kurveygirl.com/products/, (623) 444-5022, Dept. RW, 6404 Grand Bay Ct, McKinney, TX 75071.
Jonathan Rea (65) testing his new Yamaha YZF-R1 at Jerez. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Main Street in Sturgis, South Dakota, as seen during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Photo courtesy AFT.
Spirit of Sturgis TT: Progressive American Flat Track Hits the Streets for a Historic Debut on August 11, 2024
America’s Original Extreme Sport Takes Over Downtown Sturgis Streets for the final day of the 84th City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 19, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing, in collaboration with Øuterkind and the City of Sturgis, is proud to announce a major new event on the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track schedule: the inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT. This spectacle of motorcycle sport is scheduled for August 11, 2024, coinciding with the final Sunday of the 84th Annual City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, continuing the city’s legacy of motorcycle racing that dates back to 1938.
“The history and the legacy of the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally started with racing,” said Mark Carstensen, mayor of the City of Sturgis. “To host this event, Sturgis is building the bridge to the future.”
The Spirit of Sturgis TT is a culmination of the collaborative effort to combine the rich heritage and tradition of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with American Flat Track’s 70+ years of national championship racing to create a modern-day racing spectacle for fans. This groundbreaking event, taking place in the vibrant heart of downtown Sturgis, will feature an innovative mix of street and dirt sections and will be free for the public to attend.
“The Spirit of Sturgis TT is not just a race; it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, blending tradition with innovation,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “Racing through the storied streets of Sturgis promises a spectacular new chapter in the city’s rich history in motorcycle racing, while offering an unparalleled experience for fans and competitors.”
“The inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT race is an embodiment of our agency’s commitment to delivering an exceptional motorsports experience within the world’s most iconic motorcycle rally.” says Ben Keane, Partner, Øuterkind. “We believe the race will not only captivate the hearts of enthusiasts during this rally but will carve its own legacy to attract new audiences while becoming a sought-after part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for years to come.”
Building on the series’ history of hybrid courses, including past events like the DAYTONA TT and Atlanta Super TT, the Spirit of Sturgis TT is set to offer an unmatched racing experience. The unique setting of racing through the heart of the world-renowned Rally promises to deliver a memorable event for both participants and spectators.
For the first time, Progressive AFT’s Mission SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited Singles presented by KICKER classes will navigate a challenging course through Sturgis’ bustling streets. The 0.5-mile circuit will include legendary Main Street and each race will start and finish at the iconic Harley-Davidson Rally Point.
In a significant expansion for Progressive AFT, the event will also feature the debut of the AFT AdventureTrackers class. This new category will introduce the latest production-based Adventure Bikes, providing the motorcycle industry with an opportunity to showcase the rapidly growing segment. The new class aligns with the City of Sturgis’ tradition of embracing the future of motorcycling and has sparked considerable interest among manufacturers, leading to rumors of high-profile entries for the event.
Full details of the AFT AdventureTrackers class will be announced in the near future as will additional information regarding viewing options for the first annual Spirit of Sturgis TT.
Ken Roczen (94) will once again spearhead Suzuki's efforts in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS TEAMS AND RIDERS
HEP Motorsports and BARX Ready to Attack the 2024 SMX Season
BREA, CA – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to name its riders for the upcoming 2024 Supermotocross season. The HEP Motorsports and BARX Suzuki teams arrive back to represent Suzuki with strong returning talent along with promising new recruits. The Pipes Motorsports Group’s dual team effort will again compete in the 450-class championship. The 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki squad will field a solid lineup of five riders competing for action across both 250 and 450 classes.
For 2024, HEP Motorsports returns with two squads under the HEP canopy: Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki and Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance.
The 2024 Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team features elite rider Ken Roczen (94) competing on the proven Suzuki RM-Z450. Roczen had an extremely successful season in 2023 in his return to Suzuki; earned an emotional win at the Indy Supercross and captured several podium finishes throughout 2023. Roczen’s intelligent, technical riding style and solid performances resulted in a strong second-place finish in the 2023 Supermotocross Championship, and tied for third place in the 2023 Supercross season. Roczen was also crowned the overall winner of the MXGP class at the MX of Nations in France and capped off the season as the 2023 World Supercross Champion.
“I am excited to be back for 2024 with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki Team. We have built a great foundation, and I am eager to continue to try and put our Suzuki on the podium. The team and I are very motivated!” said Roczen.
Ken Roczen (94) is ready to extend his 2023 momentum into continued strong 2024 success. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
HEP Motorsports’ Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance effort continues in 2024 with veteran riders, crowd favorite Kyle Chisholm (11) from Clearwater, FL, and established pro Shane McElrath (12) who hails from Canton, NC.
With off-season training continuing, Kyle Chisholm (11) brings his setup expertise to the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
In 2023, Chisholm brought solid competition and race bike set-up experience to the HEP team while also racing to 17th in the 2023 Supermotocross World Championship. Chisholm earned consistent finishes across the supercross and motocross segments of the season. His testing and development skills behind the scenes were a key element to the HEP team’s 2023 success. With Chisholm’s extensive background in both SX and MX, Chisholm’s behind-the-scenes work, and insights will be instrumental to the HEP team’s continued progression.
“I’m looking forward to the 2024 season with the team. This will be my second year with the team, and I am pleased with all the progress made in 2023 with the RM-Z450 and with the team as a whole. Everyone worked great together, and we are looking to build on that and be even better in 2024. The team is working extremely hard, and we have such a good starting place, I feel we are going to do great things. I am looking forward to the season and having fun and more success with the team,” stated Chisholm.
Shane McElrath (12) eagerly preps for the Supermotocross World Championship at Anaheim 1. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA. LLC.
Alongside Chisholm, the team fields Shane McElrath who returns for 2024 and further augments the team’s 450-class effort to lead the RM Army. A two-time 250 West series championship runner-up, McElrath is anticipating making serious strides in 2024.
“I’m excited to be back with the Twisted Tea Progressive Suzuki Team for the full 2024 season, and am looking forward to continuing to grow and build off of everything learned last season. It’s a strong team, a really good group of people with a lot of experience; so I’m looking to apply their wealth of knowledge this year. I think that will do a lot for me and I’m eager to go racing. We’ll see you all in Anaheim!” said McElrath.
Pipes Motorsports Group Team Principle, Dustin Pipes echoes his riders’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “I am genuinely excited for the 2024 season. The team is working extremely hard in preparation for the season ahead, and we are optimistic to see how it pays off. We have a great group returning with Ken, Shane, and Kyle where we hope to build on the continuity achieved during last season. All our athletes represent the team to the highest standard, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to race with,” commented Pipes.
Respected leader Larry Brooks will continue as HEP’s team manager, and Brooks anticipates continued strong results from both squads. “We are anxious for this upcoming season and motivated for another successful year! We have been working hard this off-season to come into Anaheim 1 ready to race. It’s great to have Ken, Kyle, and Shane return for another season. We made a lot of progress in 2023. We’re looking to continue building in 2024. Ken is coming off a great off-season, winning the World Supercross Championship. Kyle and Shane both had strong off-seasons. A lot of work goes into racing. I look forward to seeing it play out come January 6th at Angel Stadium!” stated Brooks.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki Team
For 2024, Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will primarily race the sharp-handling Suzuki RM-Z250s while also fielding one rider in the 450 class with the Suzuki RM-Z450. BARX will field a team of five young competitors with diverse, progressive backgrounds in multiple SX and MX series. Each has the same desire and objective of putting BARX Suzuki on the podium in 2024.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will field up-and-coming rider Preston Boespflug (128), a fierce, young competitor climbing up the SMX ranks. From the aptly named Battle Ground, WA, Boespflug carded a promising sixth place in the 250 All-Stars main event at the 2023 SMX World Championship finale. Boespflug brings his strong work ethic and a focused, competitive spirit to the BARX squad. He will gain valuable experience competing in the first round of the Supercross Futures at Anaheim 2 before moving to contest the 250 East series in 2024, his first full SMX season as a pro.
“I’m incredibly excited to start my rookie season on a solid bike. The Suzuki RM-Z250 has been great this preseason and my team has been behind me each step of the way!” exclaimed Boespflug.
Preston Boespflug (128) looks to make an impression with Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in his first pro season. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Former national French 250-class phenom, Anthony Bourdon (945) looks to transfer his global experience to SMX success for BARX in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another substantial addition to the 2024 BARX team is Anthony Bourdon (945), the seven-year pro and the 2020 French Elite national MX2 champion. Hailing from the surfing hotbed of Europe- Seignosse, France, Bourdon has been a solid and stylish SX2 competitor on the world stage, with a strong overall podium result at the 2023 Paris Supercross including a main event win; Bourdon joins BARX to bring his ample riding skills to SMX on the Suzuki RM-Z250.
“I am incredibly happy to race in the US riding with Suzuki. I began my career racing a Suzuki RM85, and I have great memories of the bike; so I am excited to ride again with Suzuki. Coming to the US to ride Supercross is the dream of any Supercross rider, and I am glad Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki and Myron gave me this opportunity. I had a good 2023 season, and I feel great mentally and physically. I will give my absolute best to put the yellow bike on the podium. Let’s keep training and see you at A1,” said Bourdon.
Max Miller (87) joins BARX to challenge for the 250 West series crown. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another solid rider for the 2024 BARX squad is Max Miller (87) from Springfield, OR also competing in the 250 West series. An established pro in his fourth season, Miller brings solid SX experience to the BARX team for 2024. Returning to the BARX fold for 2024 is Alpine, CA racer Dilan Schwartz (40). Schwartz returns having earned top-15 results in the ultra-competitive class in 2023 and will ride the 250 East series.
Derek Drake (52) heads up BARX’s 450-class SMX effort for 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Riding for BARX’s 2024 450-class effort, is San Luis Obispo, CA’s Derek Drake (52). Drake will race the Suzuki RM-Z450 and continue to show the incredible speed displayed during select motocross races last year. Named the 2018 AMA Horizon Award winner, and starting his fifth year as a pro, Drake earned multiple top-twelve results in the 250 West class in 2023.
“I am looking forward to the RM-Z450 this season, this will be a whole new challenge for me that I’m incredibly excited about. We also have some new personnel this year that I enjoy working with so it will be a great year!” said Drake.
Also supported by Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in the 250 class are three up-and-coming amateur riders, each with solid momentum as they approach the pro sport and gain valuable experience against the sport’s best. Nathan Abbott from Simi Valley CA, Cole Timboe from Calimesa, CA, and Leo Tucker from East Dubuque, IL join the BARX squad. With additional support from Suzuki dealer Simi Valley Cycles, these BARX amateur riders will gain solid experience throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season.
For 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will be managed by James Coy. Coy brings a solid team management background as well as strong amateur rider development experience gained over the last decade. Coy seeks to bring BARX together as a real force in both SMX classes while continuing to develop young riders into vital competitors.
“I am thrilled about this new challenge, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki team throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season,” claimed Coy.
Suzuki is excited to race with BARX in the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship and anticipates seeing the entire RM Army at the venues and tracks throughout 2024.
The 2024 Supermotocross season kicks off once more at Angel Stadium on January 6th, 2024, for Anaheim 1.
For more racing news, results, and special team content please visit suzukicycles.com/racing/motocross.
Riders at a track day at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway against a backdrop of a vast array of solar panels. With solar power generation on the rise, these land uses are compatible with racetracks and can protect them from the encroachment of developments that are not friendly to circuits. Photo by Michael Gougis.
By Michael Gougis
The story is as old as racing circuits are. Land uses change around a popular circuit, neighbors complain, land values go up, and the circuit disappears. The litany of circuits that have been devoured by encroaching development in Southern California alone is disturbing to those who have followed motorsport for decades.
But there is a ray of hope in some areas.
Generating solar power requires lots of land. And solar farms are good neighbors to racetracks. They provide a solid buffer zone, sometimes acres, between the circuit and any other land use. They are not disturbed by noise or traffic. They don’t require a lot of people on site. And once they are established, they are not the sort of uses that are easily displaced by residential, commercial, or other industrial uses.
The solar panel farms surrounding Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Riverside County, California, provide an example. Not that there is a mad rush to develop the area near the Colorado Desert facility, located in an hot, harsh environment that has not exactly attracted the attention of home builders or industry. It is an hour’s drive away from Palm Springs, the closest major population center.
But it is an ideal environment for solar generation. The region is generally sunny, with a mean annual high temperature of 87.4 degrees F and an average rainfall of 3.92 inches. That’s less than 40% of the average rainfall for deserts globally. So the hot, dry, sunny climate has spawned fields of solar panels around the property.
The climate and the adjacent land covered by solar panels help insulate the track from typical problems faced by other tracks, including other forms of development or constant complaints from nearby residents who move near an existing track, then work to close it.
A KYT NZ Race helmet. Photo courtesy KYT Americas.
KYT NZ Race Helmet
The KYT NZ Race is a race-inspired helmet with a carbon-fiber shell. Extremely lightweight, the NZ Race features an aerodynamic design and industry leading peripheral and vertical fields of vision. Developed with fluid dynamic software and in wind tunnel sessions, the low-drag design reduces neck fatigue, and excellent air flow helps keep the rider cool and prevents fogging. Available in two shell sizes, the KYT NZ Race Carbon exceeds the latest safety standards set by racing organizations worldwide, and is ECE R-22-06 certified. The NZ Race’s light construction and international safety rating puts it in front for everyday usability and safety for street and track. MSRP is $549.99, from KYT dealers or from kytamericas.com.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
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 “Winter 2023 – No Rest For the Wicked.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
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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
