The NEMRR has announced its 2027 road racing schedule, featuring six rounds from May through August, including the 104th Loudon Classic.
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
ASBK: Huge Superbike Entry List Set for Phillip Island
Entries are now in for round one of the 2027 Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) at Phillip Island from October 23-25, which will mark the start of a groundbreaking summer-based calendar.
A total of 29 riders, representing six marques, seasoned stars, rookies, emerging talent and internationals, are entered for Phillip Island, which will mark only the second time Superbikes will be competing for official ASBK points at the iconic Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.
With Phillip Island hosting MotoGP action for the final time, a huge crowd will be on hand to watch the ASBK speedsters go into high-stakes battle across the three 11-lap races – two on Saturday and one on Sunday – led by defending champion Harrison Voight on the McMartin Racing Ducati.
Voight will bring exceptional European and American form into the ASBK season opener at a circuit where he is already a multiple winner, while fellow top guns Cameron Dunker (Blue Marlin Pools East Racing Yamaha) – who’s currently blazing a trail in the Australian Flat Track Nationals – three-time champion Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) and Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha Racing Team) are also continuing their incumbency with the same teams.
2027-ASBK-RD-1-Provisional-Entry-List-V1_140926
However, there’s intrigue aplenty elsewhere – headlined by Josh Waters. The crafty veteran, who has been a mainstay of the ASBK paddock for three decades, has made a shock switch to DesmoSport Ducati after a barnstorming five-year tenure with McMartin Racing where he will attempt to win a sixth Superbike title aboard the latest evolution of the Panigale V4 R.
John Lytras (Addicted to Track Yamaha), Jack Favelle (Apex Racing Team Honda) and Marcus Hamod (Unitek Racing Yamaha) will also be out to land some early blows in their new pastures, while the talented Jacob Roulstone returns to ASBK on a Honda – where he won on debut at Phillip Island earlier this year.
Elsewhere, 18-year-old Jayden Martin (Yamaha) represents a new breed of ASBK aspirants as he brings his masterful West Aussie form onto the national arena, while three New Zealanders – Luca Durning (BMW), Richard Markham-Barrett (BMW) and Morgan McLaren-Wood (Yamaha) – and Japan’s Kota Higuchi (Suzuki) will be out to claim some local scalps in what’s expected to be a hotly contested ASBK opener.
As the 2027 ASBK Championship moves onto The Bend (November 13-15, 2026), One Raceway (December 4-6, 2026), Queensland Raceway (January 15-17, 2027), Phillip Island (February 19-21, 2027) and Sydney Motorsport Park (March 19-20, 2027), genuine opportunities will exist for more internationals and Aussie expatriates to join the paddock during weather-friendly warmer months.
For more information on the 2026 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, including ticketing options, click here.
For more information on the 2027 Australian Superbike Championship:
MotoAmerica: Even More From Teams At COTA
Bobby Fong Continues Late-Season Charge with Superbike Victory at COTA.
Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Bobby Fong gains ground in the MotoAmerica Superbike title fight with a podium finish and a Race 2 victory at the penultimate round in Texas.
It’s been a rollercoaster MotoAmerica Superbike season, with multiple riders in play for the 2026 crown. Continuing his late-season charge, Bobby Fong earned his third win in five races, topping the podium in Sunday’s Race 2 at the penultimate round at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Together with a third-place finish on Saturday, the Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing rider gained some points back in the title fight to stay in the hunt heading into the Superbike tripleheader at the season finale in New Jersey.
His teammate JD Beach rebounded from a crash in Race 1 to finish the weekend with a top-five finish. Unfortunately, a pair of DNFs for Strack Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz made for a heartbreaking weekend in Texas, but with three races remaining, both he and Beach are still mathematically in contention for the title.
Fong showed good speed from the start at COTA, qualifying fourth and getting a decent start from the second row of the grid in Race 1. He quickly made his way to fourth, and although he was shuffled back to fifth, he regained the position after his teammate crashed. Around the halfway mark, Fong made the pass on Sean Dylan Kelly for third and then started to close the gap to the leaders. Although he ran out of time to challenge for the win, the Californian rode on to secure the final spot on the podium.
“It was cool to get a podium and beat the people ahead of me in the championship, just to gain a few points,” said Fong. “But it’s hard to really think about the championship. We’re still a little ways out. It feels good to get on the podium here and keep the podium streak alive. I’m looking forward to more tomorrow.”
In Race 2, Fong got another good start and quickly made his way into the top three. After a multi-rider battle for position in the opening laps, he moved into second on Lap 4 and set his sights on race leader Cameron Petersen. Fong steadily closed the 2.7-second gap and was on Petersen’s heels with two laps to go. The Californian made the pass for the lead at the end of the penultimate lap and rode on to secure his third win in five races. With four wins and 10 podiums so far this season, Fong heads into the season finale 26 points from the leader with 75 points available.
“It was a good weekend,” said Fong. “I’m happy about the win. We changed the tire plan a little bit, and it paid off. We’re a little closer on points, but really, there’s so much racing left, I can’t think about the championship. I just have to keep digging, keep doing our thing, and race wins are our goal.
“Whatever happens at the end, happens. We just have to keep our head down, keep plugging away, and not even bat an eye at this championship yet. Like I said, we just have to give it our all, and I’ll be happy no matter the outcome.”
It was a tougher weekend for Fong’s Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing teammate, JD Beach. After qualifying seventh, Beach got a great start from the third row of the grid in Race 1 and slotted into third. He battled up front in the opening laps, making his way past Kelly on Lap 5 before setting his sights on the leaders, but unfortunately crashed out of the race.
Beach got another great start in Race 2 but was shuffled back to fifth early. He continued to battle for position in a multi-rider fight, but after a big moment, Beach shifted his focus to securing the top-five finish. He heads to the season finale fourth in the standings and 49 points from the championship lead.
“The weekend was tough,” said Beach. “We started out Friday, and I was feeling good. Then in yesterday’s race I was feeling really good and smooth, running in third. I felt like I had great pace, and then just one little mishap – I tucked the front in Turn 16. It sucks to crash out of a race after a start like that, and especially with the pace we had.
“Today, I just kind of felt off a little bit. The first two or three laps of the race, I was riding a little nervous and not pushing the front. I started getting a little bit of the feeling back and made a charge for the podium. I made a couple passes, but then got passed back. With four laps to go, going through the esses, I tucked the front big and somehow saved it. In the end, it’s points on the table, but you want to be at the front, so it sucks, especially with how hard the team is working. But we finished the day, and we’ll keep fighting.”
It was an especially tough weekend for Strack Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz, who arrived at COTA just 17 points from the championship lead. After qualifying sixth, Scholtz was running inside the top six in Race 1 when a technical issue forced him to withdraw on Lap 3.
Scholtz looked to bounce back in Race 2 and was again fighting inside the top six before another technical issue forced him into the pits with four laps remaining. The team was able to get him back on track, but he had lost too much time and ultimately finished 17th. The South African heads to the season finale 46 points from the championship lead.
“Coming into COTA only 17 points down in the championship, the goal was not to lose too many points and maybe try to gain a few back, because COTA has been a little bit of a difficult track for me in the past,” said Scholtz. “Unfortunately, we had an issue with the bike in Race 1, and I wasn’t able to finish. We definitely found something for the second race on Sunday, but unfortunately on Lap 9, the clutch had come loose. We got that fixed, but we weren’t able to score points. It hurts a lot to score zero points out of the two races here. Now we go to Jersey to just try to get some wins there and hopefully finish top three in the championship. That’s the goal for us.”
The 2026 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship concludes at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey, on September 25-27, with three races and 75 points up for grabs.
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Yamaha BLU CRU Riders Celebrate Championship and Wins at COTA.
Bryce Kornbau seals the Super Hooligan title with a COTA sweep, Harrison Voight and Josh Hayes score a double podium in Supersport, and Sam Drane earns his first Talent Cup victory of the season
It was a successful weekend for Yamaha BLU CRU riders in the MotoAmerica support classes at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. BPR Racing Yamaha’s Bryce Kornbau capped off a strong season with a pair of wins to secure the Super Hooligan National Championship over his teammate Andy DiBrino. In Supersport, Liberty St. Yamaha Racing’s Harrison Voight impressed in his MotoAmerica debut, finishing runner-up in Race 2 ahead of BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes. Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane also had a standout weekend, earning his first MotoAmerica Talent Cup victory of the season and a runner-up finish.
- Bryce Kornbau Wins 2026 Super Hooligan Championship at COTA
The stage was set for an exciting Super Hooligan season finale at COTA, with BPR Racing Yamaha teammates Andy DiBrino and Bryce Kornbau separated by five points in the championship coming into the weekend. In the end, team owner/racer Kornbau did what he needed to do to secure his second MotoAmerica title – win.
DiBrino led the first half of Race 1 aboard his Yamaha MT-09, with Kornbau taking over the top spot with three laps remaining. The teammates exchanged positions in the closing laps, but it was Kornbau who ultimately prevailed. With the victory, he drew even with DiBrino in the standings, setting up a winner-take-all showdown in the final race of the season.
In Race 2, DiBrino once again led from the start, and the BPR Racing Yamaha duo quickly rode away from the competition. It became a game of strategy between the teammates, with Kornbau staying on DiBrino’s heels and waiting for his opportunity. When DiBrino ran wide and off track late in the race, Kornbau took over the lead and rode on to complete the sweep and secure the 2026 Super Hooligan Championship.
“I did what I needed to do,” said Kornbau. “We won both races, and Andy didn’t make it easy. We’re on equal equipment, and he’s stronger than me in some areas, and I’m better than him in some areas. We just go at each other differently.
“Today, I had one goal, and that was to just sit behind him the whole race, not show anything, and try to make the move on that last lap. I didn’t know if it was going to work out, and it did. We went 1-2 in the championship in our first year. It’s good for our team, it’s good for our sponsors, and it just shows everybody what we can do. It’s very exciting.”
Although DiBrino came just shy of the championship, it was a strong season for the rider from Oregon, who overcame a difficult start to the year and took the title fight down to the final race.
“It’s been an amazing season,” said DiBrino. “Coming into this, I knew I would be a contender, but we had a rough start to the season, and it took my home round to turn things around. We’ve just been on a tear ever since. I’ve been growing throughout the season and learning, and this weekend we made some big steps.
“I got my first pole position, and I felt like I could set the pace. I was able to do so all weekend long, but Bryce is so smart, so crafty, and I knew I couldn’t beat him on pace alone. So it got to be a bit of a game of strategy there, and his expertise and experience came out on top. I’m grateful that I got to learn from him all season long and get this result.”
Kornbau ended the season with four victories and eight podium finishes aboard the Yamaha MT-09, while DiBrino scored three wins and eight podiums to complete a stellar 1-2 finish for BPR Racing Yamaha in the championship.
- Harrison Voight and Josh Hayes Score MotoAmerica Supersport Double Podium at COTA
Making his MotoAmerica debut as a fill-in rider for the injured Dominic Doyle, Harrison Voight quickly got up to speed with the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing team, the Yamaha YZF-R9 and the challenging Circuit of the Americas. It was a strong debut for the newly crowned 2026 Australian Superbike Champion, who battled up front in both races and left Texas with a runner-up finish.
Voight led the way for the Yamaha BLU CRU riders in qualifying, earning fourth on the grid. He was fourth after the start of Race 1 and quickly made his way into the runner-up position, joining the championship leaders in the fight at the front. As the race wore on, it came down to Voight and Darryn Binder battling for the victory. The Australian stayed on his heels but unfortunately crashed out while fighting for the win on the final lap.
Voight reset for Race 2 and got another great start, moving into second early. It became a multi-rider battle for the final podium positions, with BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes also in the mix. Voight crossed the line third after being passed on the final lap, but following a post-race review, the rider ahead was disqualified, promoting Voight to second.
“It was a pretty great weekend racing at COTA for Liberty St. Yamaha Racing,” said Voight. “It was my first time ever seeing the track and riding the Yamaha R9. Friday was challenging as I was trying to get to grips with the circuit and bike. Afterwards, we were able to start being competitive from Saturday, qualifying fourth.
“Unfortunately, I crashed in Race 1 battling for the lead on the last lap, but I still had good confidence going into Sunday’s second race. I was happy to finish the weekend second and get a good result for the team, as they worked so hard for me all weekend. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to race this weekend, and I had a great time. I hope to be back sometime soon.”
Hayes also put together another solid weekend aboard the BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9. After qualifying fifth, the four-time AMA Superbike Champion battled inside the top five throughout the race and ultimately crossed the line fourth. In Race 2, Hayes was once again in the fight for the podium and set the fastest lap of the race on Lap 2. He ultimately earned third following the post-race penalty, and heads to the season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park just three points from third in the Supersport Championship.
“I was pretty pleased with my results at a track that has typically been difficult for me,” said Hayes. “It was great to have another Yamaha up front also, with Harrison riding so well, but my personal highlight was having the fastest race lap in Race 2. I think we’re in a good place going into New Jersey, which has traditionally been a good track for me, and my down-to-the-wire fight for third in the championship.”
Strack Racing Yamaha’s Blake Davis left Texas with a pair of solid results. After qualifying sixth to complete an all-Yamaha second row of the grid, the young Virginian battled for a top-five result early in Race 1 before dropping back to 11th. Davis put his head down and worked his way back through the field to finish sixth. He followed that up with a top-five result in Race 2 and heads to the season finale fifth in the championship.
- Sam Drane Wins MotoAmerica Talent Cup Race 2 at COTA
Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane enjoyed another strong weekend at COTA. The 15-year-old Australian qualified second and battled for the podium throughout Race 1, ultimately earning a runner-up finish.
Drane got another good start in Race 2 and was initially locked in a battle for second. After breaking free, he set his sights on race leader Nathan Gouker and closed the gap around the halfway mark. Drane took over the lead with three laps remaining, setting up a fight to the finish between the talented young riders. The duo exchanged positions in the closing laps, with Drane reclaiming the lead to earn his first MotoAmerica Talent Cup victory of the season.
“I definitely had a good weekend,” said Drane. “I started off okay with second, and then I really wanted to win Race 2. I went into it with a good mindset and just really put my head down. I got held up a little bit but ended up catching back up to Nathan, and it was a good race.”
With the 2-1 result, Drane maintains third in the MotoAmerica Talent Cup Championship heading into the season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey, on September 25-27.
More, from a press release issued by Harley-Davidson:
Bradley Smith scores King of The Baggers victory for Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory race team at Circuit of the Americas. Second Season Win Moves Smith to Second Place in Series Points.
Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team rider Bradley Smith won one race and finished second in another in the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King of the Baggers championship aboard a race-prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide® motorcycle in a double-header race weekend at Circuit of the Americas in Del Valle, Texas. Smith also won the three-lap Mission Foods Challenge sprint bonus race Saturday. The victory on Sunday was the second of the season for Smith and moved him into second place in the season points standings.
Also, at Circuit of the Americas, Saddlemen Race Development rider James Rispoli finished third in the first race of a Mission Super Hooligan double-header aboard a Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ST motorcycle. Rispoli, the reigning Misson Super Hooligan National Champion, won once and earned three additional podium results in the class this season to finish fourth in the series championship.
Smith qualified second for the Mission King of the Baggers weekend with a best lap time of 2:13.077 on the 3.427-mile, 20-turn Circuit of the Americas road course. He won the Mission Foods Challenge sprint by 0.259 seconds over Factory Indian rider Troy Herfoss. Throughout the weekend teams and racers dealt with very hot conditions, with air temperature reaching 96 degrees and track temperature exceeding 120 degrees.
In the Saturday race, Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team rider Kyle Wyman battled with Herfoss for the lead in the opening laps before sliding off the track at turn 1 on lap three of the seven scheduled laps. Smith moved up from fourth to third place behind Herfoss and Factory Indian rider Hayden Gillim and then claimed second position when Herfoss ran off the track. Smith finished 2.191 seconds behind Gillim. Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Rispoli finished fifth. Wyman was able to remount and continue the race and finished eighth.
At the start of the second race on Sunday, Smith again found himself chasing race leader Gillim after passing Herfoss on the opening lap. Smith passed Gillim for the lead on lap four and began opening a gap that stretched to 4.717 seconds at the finish. Rispoli finished fourth. Wyman retired from the race on lap five.
“I knew I could put Hayden under some pressure as he’d be thinking about the championship,” said Smith following the second race. “I stuck it in at turn 13 and stayed a little longer on the brakes to make the pass and then brought it home. The team learned a lot yesterday and made some adjustments that made the motorcycle a little more favorable in these hot conditions. I knew I needed half a second a lap and we found it.”
After 12 of 14 rounds in the 2026 MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series Gillim leads with 251 points and has secured the championship. Smith moves up to second place with 197 points, followed by Herfoss with 194 points, SDI Racing Indian rider Tyler O’Hara with 141 points, Wyman with 134 points and Rispoli with 132 points.
The Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team will close out the 2026 season on September 25-27 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, N.J. Experience racing as a VIP with the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Fan Pass. Visit this site to learn more.
Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team Road Glide® motorcycles are powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engines. The team’s racing motorcycles also feature upgraded suspension components, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins Remote Reservoir Rear Shocks, plus competition exhaust, race tires and lightweight bodywork. The Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team partner roster includes DynoJet, Rockford Fosgate®, Öhlins®, Akrapovič,STM Racing Clutch, K&N Filters, SYN3® lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts and Accessories.
MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Race Results – Circuit of the Americas Race 1:
- Hayden Gillim (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Rocco Landers (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Tyler O’Hara (Ind) SDI Racing
- James Rispoli (H-D) Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
- Jake Lewis (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development
- Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) TAB Performance
- Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Max Flinders (H-D) M3/Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson
MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Race Results – Circuit of the Americas Race 2:
- Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Hayden Gillim (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Tyler O’Hara (Ind) SDI Racing
- James Rispoli (H-D) Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
- Troy Herfoss (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) TAB Performance
- Jake Lewis (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development
More, from a press release issued by Real Steel Honda Racing:
Real Steel Honda Racing, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP and Andrew Lee secure the 2026 Motoamerica Superbike Cup championship
Andrew Lee, riding his Real Steel Honda Racing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP won both Superbike Cup races of a race weekend for the 5th time this year and clinched the 2026 Superbike Cup championship with the win on Saturday. Hayden Gillim qualified 10th for the Superbike grid leading row 4 and moved forward in race 1 to finish 7th. Race 2 on Sunday saw Hayden slip back to 13th place on lap 2 but pushed back to a 9th place finish at the end. Hayden regained 10th place in the Superbike championship standings with 103 points.
In the Talent Cup class Ian Fraley suffered a DNS in Race 1 and then suffered a DNF in Race 2. Derek Sanchez scored 4th and 5th respectively in the Talent Cup races.
Next up for the team is the MotoAmerica Superbikes at New Jersey event September 25-27 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville NJ.
Real Steel Honda Racing is proudly supported by American Honda, HRC, Progressive Insurance, Pro Honda Oils. Southern Honda Powersports, Idemitsu, Last Ark: Tactics Analogue, Vesrah, K-Tech suspension, Orient Express, Dunlop, Akrapovic Exhaust Systems, Sprint Filter, Armor Bodywork, Vortex and REB Graphics.
Hayden Gillim – Rider #69 / Team Principal: “COTA is always a fun weekend. The track is fun, but tough. Add in the heat and things get interesting. It’s usually a weekend of survival and my main goal was to keep the bike on two wheels. Chipped away all weekend and got faster and faster every session. Came away with a 7th and a 9th so not exactly the results I want but fought hard for it. Looking forward to going out with a bang at Jersey after returning from competing in the Bol d’Or 24-hour endurance race with the TRT 27 AZ Moto Honda team in France this coming weekend.”
Andrew Lee – Rider #14: “I’m really happy to wrap up the Superbike Cup Championship for our team this weekend. The weekend wasn’t easy, it felt like we were racing on the surface of the sun, but we managed to win both races. My eyes are set on New Jersey next and I’m eager to get the season wrapped up on a positive note!”
Ian Fraley – Rider #10: “This weekend tested me in every way possible. From struggling to find the right setup, to fighting through problems that seemed to keep coming one after another, every session felt like another battle. Just when things started to feel right, something else went wrong. Then, after finally having a warm-up where I went a second faster than I ever have and the bike felt better than ever, the motor locked up before the warm-up lap was even over. It wasn’t the weekend we wanted, but it showed me how much fight I have left in me. Some weekends give you trophies; others give you lessons. This one gave me both—just not the kind you can put on a podium.”
Derek Sanchez – Rider #23: “It was a solid weekend overall, coming away with a P4 in Race 1 and a P5 in Race 2. Our pace was competitive right out of the gate. After working through a slight drop in pace during the first race, we made strong adjustments for Race 2 and were actively fighting for a podium spot before a mechanical issue limited our push. Despite the setback, we banked valuable championship points and maintained our upward trajectory. Up next is the season finale at New Jersey—my home track. I’m fully focused, love racing there, and we’re going into the final round aiming for the top step.”
MotoGP: Preview Of The Qatar Airways Grand Prix Of Austria
Hot headlines all level as MotoGP readies for Spielberg thriller in Austria.
14 down, 8 to go and it’s neck-and-neck at the top: a blockbuster awaits as the Styrian mountains come alive to the sound of MotoGP.
14 rounds in and we’re back to how it started in February: all square at the top of the Championship. 33 points split the top three but the most remarkable of comebacks from Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) has seen him overturn a 102-point deficit to be joint-Championship leader, equal on points but ahead of Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) by virtue of more Grand Prix wins. The shocks and surprises will continue this weekend as our summer run comes to a close at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, where more twists and turns are on the horizon.
- THE TOP 3: Marc and Martinator level, Bezzecchi 33 behind
He’d already done the unthinkable in 2025 when he completed the greatest comeback in sporting history, but this year’s Marc Marquez has been just as impressive, perhaps even more given the short turnaround in his fortunes. Austria has been Ducati territory too with nine Austrian Grand Prix wins, the most recent coming from the #93 – his only victory there. As for Martin, he’s won at the Red Bull Ring once, in 2021, but with his recent arm pump struggles, he may be up against it this weekend. Then, there’s his teammate Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), whose Misano blunder leaves him 33 points back from his title rivals ahead. After combative and determined Austrian GP last year, the #72’s quest for a first title needs reigniting ahead of the flyaways – where his imperious run of pace really hit top speed in 2025.
- FIGHT FOR FOURTH: Diggia leads the way, Acosta on the ascendency
Whilst it seems a three-way fight at the head of the standings, just 24 points split fourth to seventh, led by Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). The Italian is 51 points behind the Championship lead so whilst it’s unlikely, it’s far from impossible; he’ll want a first Sunday podium since his Catalunya win to return to contention. Pedro Acosta(Red Bull KTM Factory Team) is the lead KTM star for their home Grand Prix and in the last four GPs, only the Championship leaders have scored more than the Shark, who continues to chase a first Grand Prix win. Behind come the SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team, with Ai Ogura’s attendance subject to a medical check, although he’s coming to Austria, and Raul Fernandez aiming to return to the podium.
- BIG NAMES ON THE UP: Alex Marquez in rich form
Edging his way closer to the top five in the standings after his sublime Misano podium, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was a Sprint podium finisher in Austria last season, whilst rounding out the top ten is three-time Austrian GP winner Francesco Bagnaia(Ducati Lenovo Team) and last year’s late charger Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). Both have good form there and for 2026, Pecco aims to get back to podium contention whilst Aldeguer was within striking distance at Misano. After his last GP at home, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) concludes Ducati’s attack force; can he come up with a surprise?
- IN THE MIDPACK: Marini, Bastianini, Quartararo and more
Looking to crack the top ten, top Honda Luca Marini’s (Honda HRC Castrol) points-streak continues and he’s just nine behind Aldeguer and four ahead of Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3). Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech3) will be Bastianini’s teammate once again this weekend as Maverick Viñales continues his recovery – the #12 hopes to be back in Japan. Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol), meanwhile, will also be sidelined as development rider Takaaki Nakagami steps in to replace the #36 due to illness. Whilst not in the top ten overall, a top ten last time out for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was an encouraging step forward for the 2021 World Champion and top Yamaha rider, whilst teammate Alex Rins gears up for a final Austrian GP after announcing his retirement from professional motorcycle racing.
- BOUNCING BACK: top 10s and points the target
No trip to the Red Bull Ring is complete without a throwback to Brad Binder’s (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) heroics in 2021 when he stayed out on slicks in the pouring rain to take a famous home victory for KTM. Nine straight points finishes, he hopes for something special. So does Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) after a difficult San Marino GP that yielded no points for the Brazilian, who won the Moto2 Grand Prix in Austria in 2025. Teammate Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) also suffered a DNF last time out and hopes to rebound whereas Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and teammate Toprak Razgatlioglu chase more solid points and target the team’s first top ten since Hungary.
After everything we’ve seen so far in 2026, more surprises, twists and turns can’t be ruled out. Action ignites at 9am local time (UTC +2), don’t miss the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Austria!
MotoGP: Nakagami Steps In for Mir in Austria
The #36 will sit out the weekend as the Japanese rider returns to racing.
Honda HRC Castrol have confirmed that Joan Mir will miss the Austrian GP, targeting a return to health for the Japanese GP. Honda HRC Development Rider Takaaki Nakagami will ride in Mir’s place – ahead of his wildcard on home turf at Motegi next time out.Directly after the San Marino GP, Mir travelled to Barcelona for medical checks to understand his physical condition after withdrawing from Sunday’s race. Detailed checks have revealed altered parameters in the blood work which require further investigation and testing.Due to the symptoms already shown in Italy and without a clear diagnosis, Mir’s medical team have recommended he focus on his recovery and withdraw from the Austrian GP. This will allow the #36 to rest and for more tests and studies to be done.Fresh off a test in Mugello, Honda HRC Development Rider Nakagami will step in for the Spielberg weekend. Already scheduled to attend the post-race test on Monday, the substitution will allow Nakagami and HRC to continue testing with the 1000cc machine and prepare further for the #30’s wildcard at the Japanese GP.
Suzuki Introduces the Next Wave of 2027 Models
DR-Z, V-STROM, and GSX models join the growing 2027 Suzuki lineup.
Brea, CA – The next wave of 2027 Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs has arrived, bringing Suzuki’s legendary performance and reliability to an exciting lineup of street bikes, DualSport motorcycles, adventure motorcycles, and KingQuad ATVs.
In response to evolving market conditions and dealer feedback, Suzuki has implemented strategic price adjustments on select 2027 motorcycle models, including the DR-Z lineup, GSX-8S, GSX-8R, and GSX-S1000. These updates make some of Suzuki’s most popular motorcycles more accessible while maintaining the quality, performance, and reliability for which the brand is known.
The latest models include the popular DR-Z4S, DR-Z4S+, and DR-Z4SM; the adventure-ready V-STROM 1050 and V-STROM 1050DE; the GSX-8S and GSX-8R; and the GSX-S1000, GSX-S1000GT+, and GSX-S1000GX+. The lineup also welcomes the Suzuki QuadSport Z90 and the 2027 KingQuad 400.
With performance, durability, and excitement engineered into every model, Suzuki’s 2027 lineup is built for today’s powersports enthusiasts, wherever the road or trail leads.
- DR-Z4S
The next evolution of Suzuki’s DualSport heritage has arrived with the 2027 DR-Z4S. This new model redefines versatility and performance, built for riders who want the best of both worlds. Starting with an all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe, Suzuki engineers have crafted a chassis that enhances stability and handling across diverse terrains. At its heart, the fully redesigned 398cc engine now features electronic fuel injection and a Ride-by-Wire throttle body, delivering refined, torque-rich performance.
- 2027 DR-Z4S
- MSRP $7,999 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- DR-Z4S+
The 2027 Suzuki DR-Z4S+ enhances the already capable DualSport platform with added protection and value right from the showroom floor. Equipped as standard with select Suzuki Genuine Accessories, the DR-Z4S+ includes a rugged skid plate, durable handguards (knuckle guards), and front and rear brake rotor guards. These trail-ready upgrades help protect key components when riding off-road, making the DR-Z4S+ ready for the trails on day one.
By bundling popular Suzuki Genuine Accessories into a single package, the DR-Z4S+ offers riders a convenient way to expand their off-road capability while maintaining the reliability and quality expected from Suzuki-engineered components.
- 2027 DR-Z4S+
- MSRP $8,299 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- DR-Z4SM
Building on Suzuki’s industry-leading SuperMoto heritage, the 2027 DR-Z4SM is here. This motorcycle redefines SuperMoto performance for riders who crave agility and excitement on the street and track.
An all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe provide a lightweight, high-performance chassis. The redesigned 398cc engine, featuring electronic fuel injection and a 42mm Ride-by-Wire throttle body, delivers smooth, responsive power.
- 2027 DR-Z4SM
- MSRP $7,999 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-8S
Designed to excite riders who seek agility, performance, and bold styling, the 2027 Suzuki GSX-8S delivers on all fronts. The GSX-8S also offers Suzuki’s renowned combination of reliability, everyday usability, and performance.
This middleweight naked street bike packs a responsive 776cc DOHC parallel-twin engine with 270-degree crankshaft timing, delivering a smooth, torque-rich ride. Enhanced by Suzuki’s Cross Balancer technology, the 2027 GSX-8S brings the punch and precision riders demand, whether carving through twisty backroads, navigating city streets, or cruising the open highway.
With its nimble chassis, advanced rider aids, and sleek, mass-forward design, the GSX-8S is as functional as it is striking. Equipped with a 5-inch full-color TFT display and features such as the Bi-directional Quick Shift System and traction control, it offers modern technology in a rider-focused package. Whether stepping up from a smaller motorcycle or seeking a machine with commanding street presence, riders will find a compelling combination of performance, technology, and everyday versatility in the 2027 GSX-8S.
- 2027 GSX-8S
- MSRP $8,749 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-8R
The Suzuki GSX-8R is an exciting fusion of sportbike appeal, performance, and riding enjoyment that appeals to a wide range of riders across varying experience levels. Building on the engineering advances of the GSX-8S, the agile GSX-8R is designed to excel whether navigating city streets or carving through winding mountain roads.
At its core is Suzuki’s new-generation 776cc DOHC parallel-twin engine, paired with a responsive chassis to create a compelling sportbike package. Every aspect of the GSX-8R’s design is focused on delivering an engaging riding experience for those seeking more performance than a smaller-displacement sportbike can offer, sharp sportbike styling, and a ride that is reassuring, reliable, and ready for action.
- V-STROM 1050
The 2027 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 proudly carries forward its legacy as a sport adventure tourer, engineered to excel on highways and long-distance journeys. At its core is the legendary 1037cc V-twin engine, proven and powerful, delivering a harmonious blend of comfort, performance, and innovative technology for riders seeking dependable versatility.
Versatile at heart, the V-STROM 1050 is many motorcycles in one. Its extensive lineup of Suzuki Genuine Accessories makes it easy to tailor the motorcycle to a wide range of riding styles and touring needs. Whether commuting, touring, or exploring new destinations, the V-STROM 1050 is ready for the journey.
- 2027 V-STROM 1050
- MSRP $15,699
- Click Here for More Details
- V-STROM 1050DE
The 2027 Suzuki V-STROM 1050DE is an elevated version of the trusted V-STROM sport adventure touring platform, featuring robust, off-road-ready upgrades to help riders tackle diverse terrain. At its heart lies a reliable, torque-rich 1037cc V-twin engine paired with a chassis engineered for serious off-road exploration.
Built with a dedicated version of the rugged cast-aluminum twin-spar frame, an extended swingarm, and a reinforced subframe, the 1050DE is engineered to tackle any road or trail.
Its increased ground clearance, combined with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke-style wheels wrapped in Dunlop Adventure tires, and fully adjustable long-travel suspension, make it primed for paved and dirt roads alike.
Rugged styling details such as an off-road specific front fender, aluminum engine protector, and accessory bar reinforce its all-terrain purpose. For riders who demand uncompromising off-road ability combined with on-road comfort, the V-STROM 1050DE is the ultimate companion.
- 2027 V-STROM 1050DE
- MSRP $16,649
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-S1000
The 2027 Suzuki GSX-S1000 delivers excellent performance and commanding street presence, continuing the legacy of Suzuki’s GSX-R-powered naked sportbike platform. This reputation comes naturally when Suzuki’s championship-winning expertise from MotoGP and Superbike is distilled into a road-ready machine.
For 2027, updated pricing makes Suzuki’s flagship naked sportbike more accessible than ever while preserving the performance and technology riders expect.
At the center of the GSX-S1000’s cockpit is a vibrant 5-inch full-color TFT display, giving instant clarity on the advanced electronic rider aids of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) and highlighting the smooth, potent acceleration of its GSX-R1000-derived long-stroke engine.
Crafted for agility and balanced handling, the GSX-S1000 has a twin-spar aluminum frame paired with a superbike-inspired swingarm. Complemented by fully adjustable KYB suspension and Brembo monoblock 4-piston front brake calipers gripping 310mm stainless-steel rotors, it delivers precision and confidence on every ride.
Bold styling cues such as stacked mono-focus LED headlights and aerodynamic radiator shrouds with winglets reinforce the GSX-S1000’s aggressive streetfighter styling.The GSX-S1000 stands as the naked sportbike for riders who demand top-tier performance without sacrificing versatility.
- 2027 GSX-S1000
- MSRP $10,798 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-S1000GT+
The 2027 GSX-S1000GT+ blends sportbike performance with long-distance touring comfort, delivering Suzuki’s signature reliability alongside advanced cargo and electronic features.
Powered by a GSX-R1000-derived engine, the GT+ delivers smooth, responsive power across the rev range, making overtaking effortless and enjoyable.
Enhanced by the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), the GSX-S1000GT+ offers refined performance and rider-focused convenience. The advanced rider aids of S.I.R.S. include Smart Cruise Control, Bi-directional Quick Shift, and adjustable traction control and power modes that help deliver a smooth and engaging riding experience.
Ergonomics strike a balance between long-distance comfort and a sporty, responsive riding posture. The lightweight aluminum twin-spar frame and adjustable KYB suspension can be tailored to match road conditions and rider preference. Designed for serious sport touring, the GT+ features integrated side cases spacious enough to accommodate full-face helmets, and they can be removed or reinstalled in seconds.
The full-color 6.5-inch TFT screen makes it easy to manage S.I.R.S. settings while offering smartphone connectivity via Suzuki mySPIN™ with a compatible smartphone, providing access to supported navigation, music, and communication features. Whether carving through mountain roads or cruising with a passenger, the GSX-S1000GT+ strikes an impressive balance between sportbike performance and touring comfort.
- GSX-S1000GX+
The 2027 GSX-S1000GX+ bridges the gap between sport touring and adventure riding, offering a unique blend of performance, versatility, and comfort as Suzuki’s first Crossover motorcycle.
With longer suspension travel and increased ground clearance, the Crossover GSX-S1000GX+ excels on both smooth asphalt and less-than-ideal road surfaces. Advanced electronic features, such as Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES) and the Road Adaptive Stabilization (SRAS) system, help boost rider comfort and confidence.
Powered by the legendary GSX-R1000-derived engine, the GX+ delivers thrilling performance with a refined ride. Its upright ergonomics, integrated luggage, and premium styling make it an ideal choice for riders seeking sportbike performance with long-distance touring capability.
From urban streets to twisty mountain roads and long highway stretches, the GSX-S1000GX+ Crossover sport tourer is engineered to take on a wide variety of riding conditions with confidence.
- 2027 GSX-S1000GX+
- MSRP $18,949
- Click Here for More Details
ABOUT SUZUKI:
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering. Specifications, appearances, equipment, color, features, materials and other items of “SUZUKI” products shown are subject to change by manufacturer at any time without notice.
Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © 2026 Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
AHRMA Vintage Cup Results at Nelson Ledges Road Course
The Vintage Cup series continued at Nelson Ledges Road Course September 12–13 as part of the 2026 AHRMA National Roadracing Series presented by VIB-ISO.
Sponsored by Roadracingworld.com and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), AHRMA’s 2026 Vintage Cup features the 250 Grand Prix class: any fully GP-kitted 250cc OHV/OHC four-stroke; 250cc air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke; 175cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke; or 175cc air-cooled twin-cylinder two-stroke built before December 31, 1968. It is a showdown of classic small-displacement racing that lives on corner speed, momentum, and precise engineering—and it rarely fails to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Typical 250GP grids mix machines such as Aermacchi, Bultaco, Greeves, Montesa, Ducati, NSU, Ossa, and more.
Heavy rain arrived as Saturday’s Vintage Cup race started and stayed through the afternoon, yet the grid still went out 15 bikes strong.
Jonas Stein took the hole shot on his 1972 Honda CB175, with Craig Hirko’s 1967 Bridgestone TA1 right on him. Hirko moved into the lead on lap 2, then went down in the last turn before the front straight and slid off the pavement. Rob Hall, on his 1965 Honda CB160, had to take to the grass to miss him. Hall then hunted Stein down and made the pass for the lead in the back section on lap 3. Stein never quite got it back and finished a close second. Robert Himmelman rounded out the podium on a 1970 Yamaha CS3.
Sunday opened overcast but dry, with good grip. Paul Germain grabbed the hole shot on his 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Hall slotting in behind. Germain retired with a mechanical after lap one, handing the lead to Hall. Dustin Johnson, on his 1968 Yamaha YCS1, tried to close the gap but could not. Tim Terrell held third on a 1966 Honda CB160.
Meanwhile a three-way scrap developed among Trevor Scales (1969 Honda CB160), Holly Varey, and Stein. Minutes before the start Varey found a flat on her 1968 VanTech CS3. Hall, who had brought the late Kevin Burns’ 1972 Honda CB175 to the track to memorialize him, texted her by coincidence, learned about the flat, and told her to come straight to his pit and take the bike. She did—and spent the race swapping places with Scales and Stein. Just before the white-flag lap Hall suffered a mechanical and pulled off, promoting Johnson to first, Terrell to second, and Stein to third. Scales took fourth, Varey fifth.
“As a sponsor and fan, I am chuffed to see such healthy grids and competitive racing as we did in our Vintage Cup class both days this weekend at the fabled Nelson Ledges. One thing that is very clear about this season is, it’s anyone’s race to take the top step. We’ve had more riders take the top step this year than I can remember in any of the Vintage Cup classes. Every race has its own crazy story, and the race action is as it can only be with fast riders on little bikes!
I also want to give a shout-out to our bud Rob Hall and his better half Caitlin for being there for AHRMA trustee Kevin Burns in the last months of his sunset days and getting Kevin’s bike out there with Holly riding at 3rd call! That’s the kind of camaraderie that exemplifies AHRMA!
We are a few weeks away from the biggest show of all – Barber Vintage Festival. I would love to see 15 bikes on the grid again as we had at Nelson. But never enough… let’s have more! There’s a purse for the top 5 riders – enough to put a little dosh back into your pockets. So, let’s make this the biggest final show and go out with style after a rough and tumble 2026 season”, said series sponsor Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton.
AHRMA first launched the Vintage Cup series in 2019 by spotlighting the 350 GP class. The series resumed in 2021 and highlighted the 500 Premier class, followed by Vintage Superbike Heavyweight in 2022 and Formula 750 in 2023. In 2024 the second rotation of featured classes began with 350GP, then 500 Premier in 2025. 250GP was added in 2026—the first year it has been featured.
“The twists and turns of this year’s Vintage Cup brought nothing but excitement at Nelson Ledges. With Rob Hall on the grid, I knew the podium would look different—and Saturday’s rain made sure of it. Between Hall’s performance and the weather, the podium saw a complete shake‑up with no Varey, Hirko, or Germain in the mix.
Sunday arrived with bated breath, waiting to see what would unfold next. The Vintage Cup race turned into another stunner, as mechanical issues took out Hall, Germain, and Hirko. Even so, the racing stayed fierce—and I couldn’t help but smile when Dustin Johnson claimed first, marking his second top‑step finish across two different race weekends.
Next up is Barber, and I know the excitement will only continue!” said Leasha Overturf, AHRMA’s Road Race Director.
Rounds 21 and 22 of the AHRMA National Road Race Series presented by VIB-ISO will close the season October 10–11 at the 21st Barber Vintage Festival at Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds, AL.
The annual Vintage Cup spotlights one of AHRMA’s road racing classes with extra attention on competitors in the selected class at each race event. Enhanced awards for Vintage Cup competitors are presented separately from other class trophies during the Saturday awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Road Race event. Highlights from each Vintage Cup race are reported in RoadracingWorld.com’s online edition. At the end of the season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy is engraved with the national champion’s name and presented at the National Awards Banquet to keep for one year.
- 2026 AHRMA Roadracing Series Presented by VIB-ISO, 250GP – Vintage Cup Results:
Nelson Ledges Road Course – Saturday, September 12, 2026
- 270 Rob Hall, 1965 Honda CB160, Charlotte, NC
- 123 Jonas Stein, 1972 Honda CB175, Nashville, TN
- 62X Robert Himmelman, 1970 Yamaha CS3, New Glarus, WI
- 87 Eric Watts, 1966 Ducati 250, Johnstown, OH
- 220 Tim Terrell, 1966 Honda CB160, Burlington, NC
- 760 Dustin Johnson, 1968 Yamaha YCS1, San Francisco, CA
- 17X Alex McLean, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Jacksonville Beach, FL
- 7 David Roper, 1967 Harley-Davidson CRTT, Hicksville, NY
- 50H Holly Varey, 1968 VanTech CS3, Brantford, ON
- 97F Francis Ganance, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Cincinnati, OH
- 903 Robert Brangaccio, 1971 Ducati 250, Basking Ridge, NJ
- 115 Tom Watkins, 1966 Ducati Mach 1, Leetonia, OH
- 779 Trever Scales, 1969 Honda CB160, Graham, NC
- 61 Paul Germain, 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Winnipeg, MB
- 641 Craig Hirko, 1967 Bridgestone TA 1, Newark Valley, NY
Nelson Ledges Road Course – Sunday, September 13, 2026
- 760 Dustin Johnson, 1968 Yamaha YCS1, San Francisco, CA
- 220 Tim Terrell, 1966 Honda CB160, Burlington, NC
- 123 Jonas Stein, 1972 Honda CB175, Nashville, TN
- 779 Trever Scales, 1969 Honda CB160, Graham, NC
- 50H Holly Varey, 1972 Honda CB175, Brantford, ON
- 62X Robert Himmelman, 1970 Yamaha CS3, New Glarus, WI
- 17X Alex McLean, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Jacksonville Beach, FL
- 97F Francis Ganance, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Cincinnati, OH
- 641 Craig Hirko, 1967 Bridgestone TA 1, Newark Valley, NY
- 115 Tom Watkins, 1966 Ducati Mach 1, Leetonia, OH
- 903 Robert Brangaccio, 1971 Ducati 250, Basking Ridge, NJ
- 270 Rob Hall, 1965 Honda CB160, Charlotte, NC
- 61 Paul Germain, 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Winnipeg, MB
About AHRMA:
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With over 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.
MotoGP: Espargaró Continues Tech3 Run at KTM’s Home GP
Pol Espargaró will continue to race for Tech3 at this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix (18-20 September), deputising for Maverick Viñales at the Red Bull Ring.
As KTM’s Official Test and Reserve Rider, Espargaró will once again join the MotoGP grid, looking to fly the orange flag in front of the Austrian crowd as he makes his fourth consecutive appearance for the team this season.
Espargaró produced a standout Qualifying performance at the previous round in San Marino, a clear marker of how far he has progressed since returning to the Tech3 garage.
Having stepped in for Viñales at Silverstone, Aragón, and Misano, the Spaniard arrives at KTM’s home event with valuable race mileage under his belt, while Tech3 remains hopeful that Viñales will be fit to return when the championship heads overseas to Japan.
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager, said: “It means a lot to have Pol with us for our factory’s home race in Austria. Every time he gets back on the bike he looks more comfortable and competitive, and Misano was another positive step forward. We know we can count on his experience and professionalism, and we’re looking forward to seeing him race in front of the orange army this weekend. At the same time, our priority remains supporting Maverick’s recovery and we hope to have him back with us as soon as possible.”
Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: Misano 2026
By Mat Oxley:
Sometimes, fights fight over the silliest things. As their highly-paid producer, I can tell you that Mat and Peter are no different. This weekend, the subject of Mizano’s Curvone came up. You know, that famous 11th turn at San Marino. Except that it might not be a turn, but a kink. Or maybe it isn’t. I’m not going to give a definitive answer here – I’m trying to preserve a very delicate peace!
Luckily, there’s lots of other things that happened during the race that we can talk about, because there was a lot going on today. Marco Bezzecchi was blazingly fast. How fast? Fast enough that he finished his entire race in one lap. Beat that! We all love an axe murderer, but that might have been a little too much. Peter hopes it doesn’t get to him, because in racing nobody can afford to take it easy at the start. Better luck next time.
Then there’s Jorge Martin, looking quite awake, and Alex Marquez, fully coming alive. But nobody was able to stop Marc Marquez from claiming victory. His doctor says he’s only got about 40% capability left in that arm, but Marc keeps proving the old saying that nobody beats the one-armed bandit. Meanwhile, we’ve got Acosta getting adventurous in the KTM-garage and some interesting livery which honors both the dead and salty potato crisps.
Yeah, sounds like a regular episode. Cheers!
– – –
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Oh, and a quick word in regards to sponsors:
If you’re interested in connecting with a really unique MotoGP audience — we’re working with Smash Brand Group out of Sydney to manage partnerships. Curious? Just head to smashbrandgroup.com.au and get in touch!
MotoGP: Tech3 Signs Agius for MotoGP Debut From 2027
The Australian joins the team for the start of MotoGP’s new technical era.
The 2027 grid is complete! Tech3 have announced that Senna Agius will join the team from next season as the new era of technical regulations comes into force. The Aussie is the final rider on the 22-strong grid to be announced, completing the line-up for a history-making season of MotoGP.
Who is Senna Agius? Meet Australia’s new MotoGP star
From his breakthrough in the Moto2 European Championship as runner-up in 2022 and champion the following year, the Australian made the move into Moto2 World Championship for 2024 and was on the podium in his rookie year. He has since established himself as a leading talent in Moto2™, claiming multiple victories and podium finishes and underlining his credentials as he prepares to take the next step in his career.
The Australian’s arrival will complete Tech3’s 2027 rider line-up alongside Luca Marini. Together, the pair will form a combination of experience and youth as Tech3 begins the next chapter of its partnership with KTM and enters the next era for MotoGP with new regulations and machinery.
Senna Agius said: “Today, a lifelong dream of mine has come true: reaching MotoGP. So many years of hard work have gone into this moment, and I’m incredibly grateful to Guenther and everyone at Tech3 for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to repay their faith. I know the challenge ahead, but I’m ready to learn, work hard, and become the best version of myself with this team.
“A huge thank you to my family, friends, and everyone who has supported me and made sacrifices throughout my journey. I’d also like to thank every team, engineer, and mechanic I’ve worked with over the years – they’ve all played a part in helping me reach this point. I can’t wait to get started and make everyone proud.”
Guenther Steiner, Tech3 CEO, said: “We believe Senna has the qualities to make a very strong step into MotoGP. He has shown impressive speed and maturity in Moto2, but what really stood out to us was his determination to keep improving and his attitude towards the work required to succeed.
“We are building a team for a completely new era of MotoGP, and we wanted to combine experience with young talent. Senna represents an exciting part of that future. We know there will be a lot for him to learn but we are ready to support him through that process. We are very pleased to welcome him to Tech3 and look forward to seeing him grow with us.”
Nicolas Goyon, Tech3 Team Manager, said: “Senna has demonstrated throughout his Moto2 career that he has both the speed and the mentality to take on this new challenge. He is still young, so there is a lot of potential for us to develop together, and we are excited to be part of the next stage of his career.
“Starting MotoGP with completely new regulations and machinery will be a big challenge for every rider, but it also gives us an opportunity to build something together from the beginning. Senna is hungry to learn, he works hard, and he has already shown that he can fight at the front. We are very happy to have him joining Tech3 and cannot wait to see what we can achieve together.”
NEMRR Announces 2027 Road Racing Schedule
The NEMRR has announced its 2027 road racing schedule, featuring six rounds from May through August, including the 104th Loudon Classic.
ASBK: Huge Superbike Entry List Set for Phillip Island
Entries are now in for round one of the 2027 Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) at Phillip Island from October 23-25, which will mark the start of a groundbreaking summer-based calendar.
A total of 29 riders, representing six marques, seasoned stars, rookies, emerging talent and internationals, are entered for Phillip Island, which will mark only the second time Superbikes will be competing for official ASBK points at the iconic Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.
With Phillip Island hosting MotoGP action for the final time, a huge crowd will be on hand to watch the ASBK speedsters go into high-stakes battle across the three 11-lap races – two on Saturday and one on Sunday – led by defending champion Harrison Voight on the McMartin Racing Ducati.
Voight will bring exceptional European and American form into the ASBK season opener at a circuit where he is already a multiple winner, while fellow top guns Cameron Dunker (Blue Marlin Pools East Racing Yamaha) – who’s currently blazing a trail in the Australian Flat Track Nationals – three-time champion Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) and Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha Racing Team) are also continuing their incumbency with the same teams.
2027-ASBK-RD-1-Provisional-Entry-List-V1_140926
However, there’s intrigue aplenty elsewhere – headlined by Josh Waters. The crafty veteran, who has been a mainstay of the ASBK paddock for three decades, has made a shock switch to DesmoSport Ducati after a barnstorming five-year tenure with McMartin Racing where he will attempt to win a sixth Superbike title aboard the latest evolution of the Panigale V4 R.
John Lytras (Addicted to Track Yamaha), Jack Favelle (Apex Racing Team Honda) and Marcus Hamod (Unitek Racing Yamaha) will also be out to land some early blows in their new pastures, while the talented Jacob Roulstone returns to ASBK on a Honda – where he won on debut at Phillip Island earlier this year.
Elsewhere, 18-year-old Jayden Martin (Yamaha) represents a new breed of ASBK aspirants as he brings his masterful West Aussie form onto the national arena, while three New Zealanders – Luca Durning (BMW), Richard Markham-Barrett (BMW) and Morgan McLaren-Wood (Yamaha) – and Japan’s Kota Higuchi (Suzuki) will be out to claim some local scalps in what’s expected to be a hotly contested ASBK opener.
As the 2027 ASBK Championship moves onto The Bend (November 13-15, 2026), One Raceway (December 4-6, 2026), Queensland Raceway (January 15-17, 2027), Phillip Island (February 19-21, 2027) and Sydney Motorsport Park (March 19-20, 2027), genuine opportunities will exist for more internationals and Aussie expatriates to join the paddock during weather-friendly warmer months.
For more information on the 2026 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, including ticketing options, click here.
For more information on the 2027 Australian Superbike Championship:
MotoAmerica: Even More From Teams At COTA
Bobby Fong Continues Late-Season Charge with Superbike Victory at COTA.
Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Bobby Fong gains ground in the MotoAmerica Superbike title fight with a podium finish and a Race 2 victory at the penultimate round in Texas.
It’s been a rollercoaster MotoAmerica Superbike season, with multiple riders in play for the 2026 crown. Continuing his late-season charge, Bobby Fong earned his third win in five races, topping the podium in Sunday’s Race 2 at the penultimate round at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Together with a third-place finish on Saturday, the Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing rider gained some points back in the title fight to stay in the hunt heading into the Superbike tripleheader at the season finale in New Jersey.
His teammate JD Beach rebounded from a crash in Race 1 to finish the weekend with a top-five finish. Unfortunately, a pair of DNFs for Strack Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz made for a heartbreaking weekend in Texas, but with three races remaining, both he and Beach are still mathematically in contention for the title.
Fong showed good speed from the start at COTA, qualifying fourth and getting a decent start from the second row of the grid in Race 1. He quickly made his way to fourth, and although he was shuffled back to fifth, he regained the position after his teammate crashed. Around the halfway mark, Fong made the pass on Sean Dylan Kelly for third and then started to close the gap to the leaders. Although he ran out of time to challenge for the win, the Californian rode on to secure the final spot on the podium.
“It was cool to get a podium and beat the people ahead of me in the championship, just to gain a few points,” said Fong. “But it’s hard to really think about the championship. We’re still a little ways out. It feels good to get on the podium here and keep the podium streak alive. I’m looking forward to more tomorrow.”
In Race 2, Fong got another good start and quickly made his way into the top three. After a multi-rider battle for position in the opening laps, he moved into second on Lap 4 and set his sights on race leader Cameron Petersen. Fong steadily closed the 2.7-second gap and was on Petersen’s heels with two laps to go. The Californian made the pass for the lead at the end of the penultimate lap and rode on to secure his third win in five races. With four wins and 10 podiums so far this season, Fong heads into the season finale 26 points from the leader with 75 points available.
“It was a good weekend,” said Fong. “I’m happy about the win. We changed the tire plan a little bit, and it paid off. We’re a little closer on points, but really, there’s so much racing left, I can’t think about the championship. I just have to keep digging, keep doing our thing, and race wins are our goal.
“Whatever happens at the end, happens. We just have to keep our head down, keep plugging away, and not even bat an eye at this championship yet. Like I said, we just have to give it our all, and I’ll be happy no matter the outcome.”
It was a tougher weekend for Fong’s Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing teammate, JD Beach. After qualifying seventh, Beach got a great start from the third row of the grid in Race 1 and slotted into third. He battled up front in the opening laps, making his way past Kelly on Lap 5 before setting his sights on the leaders, but unfortunately crashed out of the race.
Beach got another great start in Race 2 but was shuffled back to fifth early. He continued to battle for position in a multi-rider fight, but after a big moment, Beach shifted his focus to securing the top-five finish. He heads to the season finale fourth in the standings and 49 points from the championship lead.
“The weekend was tough,” said Beach. “We started out Friday, and I was feeling good. Then in yesterday’s race I was feeling really good and smooth, running in third. I felt like I had great pace, and then just one little mishap – I tucked the front in Turn 16. It sucks to crash out of a race after a start like that, and especially with the pace we had.
“Today, I just kind of felt off a little bit. The first two or three laps of the race, I was riding a little nervous and not pushing the front. I started getting a little bit of the feeling back and made a charge for the podium. I made a couple passes, but then got passed back. With four laps to go, going through the esses, I tucked the front big and somehow saved it. In the end, it’s points on the table, but you want to be at the front, so it sucks, especially with how hard the team is working. But we finished the day, and we’ll keep fighting.”
It was an especially tough weekend for Strack Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz, who arrived at COTA just 17 points from the championship lead. After qualifying sixth, Scholtz was running inside the top six in Race 1 when a technical issue forced him to withdraw on Lap 3.
Scholtz looked to bounce back in Race 2 and was again fighting inside the top six before another technical issue forced him into the pits with four laps remaining. The team was able to get him back on track, but he had lost too much time and ultimately finished 17th. The South African heads to the season finale 46 points from the championship lead.
“Coming into COTA only 17 points down in the championship, the goal was not to lose too many points and maybe try to gain a few back, because COTA has been a little bit of a difficult track for me in the past,” said Scholtz. “Unfortunately, we had an issue with the bike in Race 1, and I wasn’t able to finish. We definitely found something for the second race on Sunday, but unfortunately on Lap 9, the clutch had come loose. We got that fixed, but we weren’t able to score points. It hurts a lot to score zero points out of the two races here. Now we go to Jersey to just try to get some wins there and hopefully finish top three in the championship. That’s the goal for us.”
The 2026 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship concludes at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey, on September 25-27, with three races and 75 points up for grabs.
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Yamaha BLU CRU Riders Celebrate Championship and Wins at COTA.
Bryce Kornbau seals the Super Hooligan title with a COTA sweep, Harrison Voight and Josh Hayes score a double podium in Supersport, and Sam Drane earns his first Talent Cup victory of the season
It was a successful weekend for Yamaha BLU CRU riders in the MotoAmerica support classes at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. BPR Racing Yamaha’s Bryce Kornbau capped off a strong season with a pair of wins to secure the Super Hooligan National Championship over his teammate Andy DiBrino. In Supersport, Liberty St. Yamaha Racing’s Harrison Voight impressed in his MotoAmerica debut, finishing runner-up in Race 2 ahead of BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes. Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane also had a standout weekend, earning his first MotoAmerica Talent Cup victory of the season and a runner-up finish.
- Bryce Kornbau Wins 2026 Super Hooligan Championship at COTA
The stage was set for an exciting Super Hooligan season finale at COTA, with BPR Racing Yamaha teammates Andy DiBrino and Bryce Kornbau separated by five points in the championship coming into the weekend. In the end, team owner/racer Kornbau did what he needed to do to secure his second MotoAmerica title – win.
DiBrino led the first half of Race 1 aboard his Yamaha MT-09, with Kornbau taking over the top spot with three laps remaining. The teammates exchanged positions in the closing laps, but it was Kornbau who ultimately prevailed. With the victory, he drew even with DiBrino in the standings, setting up a winner-take-all showdown in the final race of the season.
In Race 2, DiBrino once again led from the start, and the BPR Racing Yamaha duo quickly rode away from the competition. It became a game of strategy between the teammates, with Kornbau staying on DiBrino’s heels and waiting for his opportunity. When DiBrino ran wide and off track late in the race, Kornbau took over the lead and rode on to complete the sweep and secure the 2026 Super Hooligan Championship.
“I did what I needed to do,” said Kornbau. “We won both races, and Andy didn’t make it easy. We’re on equal equipment, and he’s stronger than me in some areas, and I’m better than him in some areas. We just go at each other differently.
“Today, I had one goal, and that was to just sit behind him the whole race, not show anything, and try to make the move on that last lap. I didn’t know if it was going to work out, and it did. We went 1-2 in the championship in our first year. It’s good for our team, it’s good for our sponsors, and it just shows everybody what we can do. It’s very exciting.”
Although DiBrino came just shy of the championship, it was a strong season for the rider from Oregon, who overcame a difficult start to the year and took the title fight down to the final race.
“It’s been an amazing season,” said DiBrino. “Coming into this, I knew I would be a contender, but we had a rough start to the season, and it took my home round to turn things around. We’ve just been on a tear ever since. I’ve been growing throughout the season and learning, and this weekend we made some big steps.
“I got my first pole position, and I felt like I could set the pace. I was able to do so all weekend long, but Bryce is so smart, so crafty, and I knew I couldn’t beat him on pace alone. So it got to be a bit of a game of strategy there, and his expertise and experience came out on top. I’m grateful that I got to learn from him all season long and get this result.”
Kornbau ended the season with four victories and eight podium finishes aboard the Yamaha MT-09, while DiBrino scored three wins and eight podiums to complete a stellar 1-2 finish for BPR Racing Yamaha in the championship.
- Harrison Voight and Josh Hayes Score MotoAmerica Supersport Double Podium at COTA
Making his MotoAmerica debut as a fill-in rider for the injured Dominic Doyle, Harrison Voight quickly got up to speed with the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing team, the Yamaha YZF-R9 and the challenging Circuit of the Americas. It was a strong debut for the newly crowned 2026 Australian Superbike Champion, who battled up front in both races and left Texas with a runner-up finish.
Voight led the way for the Yamaha BLU CRU riders in qualifying, earning fourth on the grid. He was fourth after the start of Race 1 and quickly made his way into the runner-up position, joining the championship leaders in the fight at the front. As the race wore on, it came down to Voight and Darryn Binder battling for the victory. The Australian stayed on his heels but unfortunately crashed out while fighting for the win on the final lap.
Voight reset for Race 2 and got another great start, moving into second early. It became a multi-rider battle for the final podium positions, with BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes also in the mix. Voight crossed the line third after being passed on the final lap, but following a post-race review, the rider ahead was disqualified, promoting Voight to second.
“It was a pretty great weekend racing at COTA for Liberty St. Yamaha Racing,” said Voight. “It was my first time ever seeing the track and riding the Yamaha R9. Friday was challenging as I was trying to get to grips with the circuit and bike. Afterwards, we were able to start being competitive from Saturday, qualifying fourth.
“Unfortunately, I crashed in Race 1 battling for the lead on the last lap, but I still had good confidence going into Sunday’s second race. I was happy to finish the weekend second and get a good result for the team, as they worked so hard for me all weekend. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to race this weekend, and I had a great time. I hope to be back sometime soon.”
Hayes also put together another solid weekend aboard the BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9. After qualifying fifth, the four-time AMA Superbike Champion battled inside the top five throughout the race and ultimately crossed the line fourth. In Race 2, Hayes was once again in the fight for the podium and set the fastest lap of the race on Lap 2. He ultimately earned third following the post-race penalty, and heads to the season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park just three points from third in the Supersport Championship.
“I was pretty pleased with my results at a track that has typically been difficult for me,” said Hayes. “It was great to have another Yamaha up front also, with Harrison riding so well, but my personal highlight was having the fastest race lap in Race 2. I think we’re in a good place going into New Jersey, which has traditionally been a good track for me, and my down-to-the-wire fight for third in the championship.”
Strack Racing Yamaha’s Blake Davis left Texas with a pair of solid results. After qualifying sixth to complete an all-Yamaha second row of the grid, the young Virginian battled for a top-five result early in Race 1 before dropping back to 11th. Davis put his head down and worked his way back through the field to finish sixth. He followed that up with a top-five result in Race 2 and heads to the season finale fifth in the championship.
- Sam Drane Wins MotoAmerica Talent Cup Race 2 at COTA
Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane enjoyed another strong weekend at COTA. The 15-year-old Australian qualified second and battled for the podium throughout Race 1, ultimately earning a runner-up finish.
Drane got another good start in Race 2 and was initially locked in a battle for second. After breaking free, he set his sights on race leader Nathan Gouker and closed the gap around the halfway mark. Drane took over the lead with three laps remaining, setting up a fight to the finish between the talented young riders. The duo exchanged positions in the closing laps, with Drane reclaiming the lead to earn his first MotoAmerica Talent Cup victory of the season.
“I definitely had a good weekend,” said Drane. “I started off okay with second, and then I really wanted to win Race 2. I went into it with a good mindset and just really put my head down. I got held up a little bit but ended up catching back up to Nathan, and it was a good race.”
With the 2-1 result, Drane maintains third in the MotoAmerica Talent Cup Championship heading into the season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey, on September 25-27.
More, from a press release issued by Harley-Davidson:
Bradley Smith scores King of The Baggers victory for Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory race team at Circuit of the Americas. Second Season Win Moves Smith to Second Place in Series Points.
Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team rider Bradley Smith won one race and finished second in another in the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King of the Baggers championship aboard a race-prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide® motorcycle in a double-header race weekend at Circuit of the Americas in Del Valle, Texas. Smith also won the three-lap Mission Foods Challenge sprint bonus race Saturday. The victory on Sunday was the second of the season for Smith and moved him into second place in the season points standings.
Also, at Circuit of the Americas, Saddlemen Race Development rider James Rispoli finished third in the first race of a Mission Super Hooligan double-header aboard a Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ST motorcycle. Rispoli, the reigning Misson Super Hooligan National Champion, won once and earned three additional podium results in the class this season to finish fourth in the series championship.
Smith qualified second for the Mission King of the Baggers weekend with a best lap time of 2:13.077 on the 3.427-mile, 20-turn Circuit of the Americas road course. He won the Mission Foods Challenge sprint by 0.259 seconds over Factory Indian rider Troy Herfoss. Throughout the weekend teams and racers dealt with very hot conditions, with air temperature reaching 96 degrees and track temperature exceeding 120 degrees.
In the Saturday race, Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team rider Kyle Wyman battled with Herfoss for the lead in the opening laps before sliding off the track at turn 1 on lap three of the seven scheduled laps. Smith moved up from fourth to third place behind Herfoss and Factory Indian rider Hayden Gillim and then claimed second position when Herfoss ran off the track. Smith finished 2.191 seconds behind Gillim. Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Rispoli finished fifth. Wyman was able to remount and continue the race and finished eighth.
At the start of the second race on Sunday, Smith again found himself chasing race leader Gillim after passing Herfoss on the opening lap. Smith passed Gillim for the lead on lap four and began opening a gap that stretched to 4.717 seconds at the finish. Rispoli finished fourth. Wyman retired from the race on lap five.
“I knew I could put Hayden under some pressure as he’d be thinking about the championship,” said Smith following the second race. “I stuck it in at turn 13 and stayed a little longer on the brakes to make the pass and then brought it home. The team learned a lot yesterday and made some adjustments that made the motorcycle a little more favorable in these hot conditions. I knew I needed half a second a lap and we found it.”
After 12 of 14 rounds in the 2026 MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series Gillim leads with 251 points and has secured the championship. Smith moves up to second place with 197 points, followed by Herfoss with 194 points, SDI Racing Indian rider Tyler O’Hara with 141 points, Wyman with 134 points and Rispoli with 132 points.
The Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team will close out the 2026 season on September 25-27 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, N.J. Experience racing as a VIP with the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Fan Pass. Visit this site to learn more.
Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team Road Glide® motorcycles are powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engines. The team’s racing motorcycles also feature upgraded suspension components, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins Remote Reservoir Rear Shocks, plus competition exhaust, race tires and lightweight bodywork. The Harley-Davidson® x DynoJet Factory Race Team partner roster includes DynoJet, Rockford Fosgate®, Öhlins®, Akrapovič,STM Racing Clutch, K&N Filters, SYN3® lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts and Accessories.
MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Race Results – Circuit of the Americas Race 1:
- Hayden Gillim (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Rocco Landers (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Tyler O’Hara (Ind) SDI Racing
- James Rispoli (H-D) Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
- Jake Lewis (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development
- Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) TAB Performance
- Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Max Flinders (H-D) M3/Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson
MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Race Results – Circuit of the Americas Race 2:
- Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley-Davidson® x Dynojet Factory Race Team
- Hayden Gillim (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Tyler O’Hara (Ind) SDI Racing
- James Rispoli (H-D) Big Diehl x Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
- Troy Herfoss (Ind) J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian
- Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) TAB Performance
- Jake Lewis (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development
More, from a press release issued by Real Steel Honda Racing:
Real Steel Honda Racing, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP and Andrew Lee secure the 2026 Motoamerica Superbike Cup championship
Andrew Lee, riding his Real Steel Honda Racing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP won both Superbike Cup races of a race weekend for the 5th time this year and clinched the 2026 Superbike Cup championship with the win on Saturday. Hayden Gillim qualified 10th for the Superbike grid leading row 4 and moved forward in race 1 to finish 7th. Race 2 on Sunday saw Hayden slip back to 13th place on lap 2 but pushed back to a 9th place finish at the end. Hayden regained 10th place in the Superbike championship standings with 103 points.
In the Talent Cup class Ian Fraley suffered a DNS in Race 1 and then suffered a DNF in Race 2. Derek Sanchez scored 4th and 5th respectively in the Talent Cup races.
Next up for the team is the MotoAmerica Superbikes at New Jersey event September 25-27 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville NJ.
Real Steel Honda Racing is proudly supported by American Honda, HRC, Progressive Insurance, Pro Honda Oils. Southern Honda Powersports, Idemitsu, Last Ark: Tactics Analogue, Vesrah, K-Tech suspension, Orient Express, Dunlop, Akrapovic Exhaust Systems, Sprint Filter, Armor Bodywork, Vortex and REB Graphics.
Hayden Gillim – Rider #69 / Team Principal: “COTA is always a fun weekend. The track is fun, but tough. Add in the heat and things get interesting. It’s usually a weekend of survival and my main goal was to keep the bike on two wheels. Chipped away all weekend and got faster and faster every session. Came away with a 7th and a 9th so not exactly the results I want but fought hard for it. Looking forward to going out with a bang at Jersey after returning from competing in the Bol d’Or 24-hour endurance race with the TRT 27 AZ Moto Honda team in France this coming weekend.”
Andrew Lee – Rider #14: “I’m really happy to wrap up the Superbike Cup Championship for our team this weekend. The weekend wasn’t easy, it felt like we were racing on the surface of the sun, but we managed to win both races. My eyes are set on New Jersey next and I’m eager to get the season wrapped up on a positive note!”
Ian Fraley – Rider #10: “This weekend tested me in every way possible. From struggling to find the right setup, to fighting through problems that seemed to keep coming one after another, every session felt like another battle. Just when things started to feel right, something else went wrong. Then, after finally having a warm-up where I went a second faster than I ever have and the bike felt better than ever, the motor locked up before the warm-up lap was even over. It wasn’t the weekend we wanted, but it showed me how much fight I have left in me. Some weekends give you trophies; others give you lessons. This one gave me both—just not the kind you can put on a podium.”
Derek Sanchez – Rider #23: “It was a solid weekend overall, coming away with a P4 in Race 1 and a P5 in Race 2. Our pace was competitive right out of the gate. After working through a slight drop in pace during the first race, we made strong adjustments for Race 2 and were actively fighting for a podium spot before a mechanical issue limited our push. Despite the setback, we banked valuable championship points and maintained our upward trajectory. Up next is the season finale at New Jersey—my home track. I’m fully focused, love racing there, and we’re going into the final round aiming for the top step.”
MotoGP: Preview Of The Qatar Airways Grand Prix Of Austria
Hot headlines all level as MotoGP readies for Spielberg thriller in Austria.
14 down, 8 to go and it’s neck-and-neck at the top: a blockbuster awaits as the Styrian mountains come alive to the sound of MotoGP.
14 rounds in and we’re back to how it started in February: all square at the top of the Championship. 33 points split the top three but the most remarkable of comebacks from Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) has seen him overturn a 102-point deficit to be joint-Championship leader, equal on points but ahead of Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) by virtue of more Grand Prix wins. The shocks and surprises will continue this weekend as our summer run comes to a close at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, where more twists and turns are on the horizon.
- THE TOP 3: Marc and Martinator level, Bezzecchi 33 behind
He’d already done the unthinkable in 2025 when he completed the greatest comeback in sporting history, but this year’s Marc Marquez has been just as impressive, perhaps even more given the short turnaround in his fortunes. Austria has been Ducati territory too with nine Austrian Grand Prix wins, the most recent coming from the #93 – his only victory there. As for Martin, he’s won at the Red Bull Ring once, in 2021, but with his recent arm pump struggles, he may be up against it this weekend. Then, there’s his teammate Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), whose Misano blunder leaves him 33 points back from his title rivals ahead. After combative and determined Austrian GP last year, the #72’s quest for a first title needs reigniting ahead of the flyaways – where his imperious run of pace really hit top speed in 2025.
- FIGHT FOR FOURTH: Diggia leads the way, Acosta on the ascendency
Whilst it seems a three-way fight at the head of the standings, just 24 points split fourth to seventh, led by Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). The Italian is 51 points behind the Championship lead so whilst it’s unlikely, it’s far from impossible; he’ll want a first Sunday podium since his Catalunya win to return to contention. Pedro Acosta(Red Bull KTM Factory Team) is the lead KTM star for their home Grand Prix and in the last four GPs, only the Championship leaders have scored more than the Shark, who continues to chase a first Grand Prix win. Behind come the SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team, with Ai Ogura’s attendance subject to a medical check, although he’s coming to Austria, and Raul Fernandez aiming to return to the podium.
- BIG NAMES ON THE UP: Alex Marquez in rich form
Edging his way closer to the top five in the standings after his sublime Misano podium, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was a Sprint podium finisher in Austria last season, whilst rounding out the top ten is three-time Austrian GP winner Francesco Bagnaia(Ducati Lenovo Team) and last year’s late charger Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). Both have good form there and for 2026, Pecco aims to get back to podium contention whilst Aldeguer was within striking distance at Misano. After his last GP at home, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) concludes Ducati’s attack force; can he come up with a surprise?
- IN THE MIDPACK: Marini, Bastianini, Quartararo and more
Looking to crack the top ten, top Honda Luca Marini’s (Honda HRC Castrol) points-streak continues and he’s just nine behind Aldeguer and four ahead of Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3). Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech3) will be Bastianini’s teammate once again this weekend as Maverick Viñales continues his recovery – the #12 hopes to be back in Japan. Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol), meanwhile, will also be sidelined as development rider Takaaki Nakagami steps in to replace the #36 due to illness. Whilst not in the top ten overall, a top ten last time out for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was an encouraging step forward for the 2021 World Champion and top Yamaha rider, whilst teammate Alex Rins gears up for a final Austrian GP after announcing his retirement from professional motorcycle racing.
- BOUNCING BACK: top 10s and points the target
No trip to the Red Bull Ring is complete without a throwback to Brad Binder’s (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) heroics in 2021 when he stayed out on slicks in the pouring rain to take a famous home victory for KTM. Nine straight points finishes, he hopes for something special. So does Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) after a difficult San Marino GP that yielded no points for the Brazilian, who won the Moto2 Grand Prix in Austria in 2025. Teammate Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) also suffered a DNF last time out and hopes to rebound whereas Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and teammate Toprak Razgatlioglu chase more solid points and target the team’s first top ten since Hungary.
After everything we’ve seen so far in 2026, more surprises, twists and turns can’t be ruled out. Action ignites at 9am local time (UTC +2), don’t miss the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Austria!
MotoGP: Nakagami Steps In for Mir in Austria
The #36 will sit out the weekend as the Japanese rider returns to racing.
Honda HRC Castrol have confirmed that Joan Mir will miss the Austrian GP, targeting a return to health for the Japanese GP. Honda HRC Development Rider Takaaki Nakagami will ride in Mir’s place – ahead of his wildcard on home turf at Motegi next time out.Directly after the San Marino GP, Mir travelled to Barcelona for medical checks to understand his physical condition after withdrawing from Sunday’s race. Detailed checks have revealed altered parameters in the blood work which require further investigation and testing.Due to the symptoms already shown in Italy and without a clear diagnosis, Mir’s medical team have recommended he focus on his recovery and withdraw from the Austrian GP. This will allow the #36 to rest and for more tests and studies to be done.Fresh off a test in Mugello, Honda HRC Development Rider Nakagami will step in for the Spielberg weekend. Already scheduled to attend the post-race test on Monday, the substitution will allow Nakagami and HRC to continue testing with the 1000cc machine and prepare further for the #30’s wildcard at the Japanese GP.
Suzuki Introduces the Next Wave of 2027 Models
DR-Z, V-STROM, and GSX models join the growing 2027 Suzuki lineup.
Brea, CA – The next wave of 2027 Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs has arrived, bringing Suzuki’s legendary performance and reliability to an exciting lineup of street bikes, DualSport motorcycles, adventure motorcycles, and KingQuad ATVs.
In response to evolving market conditions and dealer feedback, Suzuki has implemented strategic price adjustments on select 2027 motorcycle models, including the DR-Z lineup, GSX-8S, GSX-8R, and GSX-S1000. These updates make some of Suzuki’s most popular motorcycles more accessible while maintaining the quality, performance, and reliability for which the brand is known.
The latest models include the popular DR-Z4S, DR-Z4S+, and DR-Z4SM; the adventure-ready V-STROM 1050 and V-STROM 1050DE; the GSX-8S and GSX-8R; and the GSX-S1000, GSX-S1000GT+, and GSX-S1000GX+. The lineup also welcomes the Suzuki QuadSport Z90 and the 2027 KingQuad 400.
With performance, durability, and excitement engineered into every model, Suzuki’s 2027 lineup is built for today’s powersports enthusiasts, wherever the road or trail leads.
- DR-Z4S
The next evolution of Suzuki’s DualSport heritage has arrived with the 2027 DR-Z4S. This new model redefines versatility and performance, built for riders who want the best of both worlds. Starting with an all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe, Suzuki engineers have crafted a chassis that enhances stability and handling across diverse terrains. At its heart, the fully redesigned 398cc engine now features electronic fuel injection and a Ride-by-Wire throttle body, delivering refined, torque-rich performance.
- 2027 DR-Z4S
- MSRP $7,999 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- DR-Z4S+
The 2027 Suzuki DR-Z4S+ enhances the already capable DualSport platform with added protection and value right from the showroom floor. Equipped as standard with select Suzuki Genuine Accessories, the DR-Z4S+ includes a rugged skid plate, durable handguards (knuckle guards), and front and rear brake rotor guards. These trail-ready upgrades help protect key components when riding off-road, making the DR-Z4S+ ready for the trails on day one.
By bundling popular Suzuki Genuine Accessories into a single package, the DR-Z4S+ offers riders a convenient way to expand their off-road capability while maintaining the reliability and quality expected from Suzuki-engineered components.
- 2027 DR-Z4S+
- MSRP $8,299 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- DR-Z4SM
Building on Suzuki’s industry-leading SuperMoto heritage, the 2027 DR-Z4SM is here. This motorcycle redefines SuperMoto performance for riders who crave agility and excitement on the street and track.
An all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe provide a lightweight, high-performance chassis. The redesigned 398cc engine, featuring electronic fuel injection and a 42mm Ride-by-Wire throttle body, delivers smooth, responsive power.
- 2027 DR-Z4SM
- MSRP $7,999 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-8S
Designed to excite riders who seek agility, performance, and bold styling, the 2027 Suzuki GSX-8S delivers on all fronts. The GSX-8S also offers Suzuki’s renowned combination of reliability, everyday usability, and performance.
This middleweight naked street bike packs a responsive 776cc DOHC parallel-twin engine with 270-degree crankshaft timing, delivering a smooth, torque-rich ride. Enhanced by Suzuki’s Cross Balancer technology, the 2027 GSX-8S brings the punch and precision riders demand, whether carving through twisty backroads, navigating city streets, or cruising the open highway.
With its nimble chassis, advanced rider aids, and sleek, mass-forward design, the GSX-8S is as functional as it is striking. Equipped with a 5-inch full-color TFT display and features such as the Bi-directional Quick Shift System and traction control, it offers modern technology in a rider-focused package. Whether stepping up from a smaller motorcycle or seeking a machine with commanding street presence, riders will find a compelling combination of performance, technology, and everyday versatility in the 2027 GSX-8S.
- 2027 GSX-8S
- MSRP $8,749 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-8R
The Suzuki GSX-8R is an exciting fusion of sportbike appeal, performance, and riding enjoyment that appeals to a wide range of riders across varying experience levels. Building on the engineering advances of the GSX-8S, the agile GSX-8R is designed to excel whether navigating city streets or carving through winding mountain roads.
At its core is Suzuki’s new-generation 776cc DOHC parallel-twin engine, paired with a responsive chassis to create a compelling sportbike package. Every aspect of the GSX-8R’s design is focused on delivering an engaging riding experience for those seeking more performance than a smaller-displacement sportbike can offer, sharp sportbike styling, and a ride that is reassuring, reliable, and ready for action.
- V-STROM 1050
The 2027 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 proudly carries forward its legacy as a sport adventure tourer, engineered to excel on highways and long-distance journeys. At its core is the legendary 1037cc V-twin engine, proven and powerful, delivering a harmonious blend of comfort, performance, and innovative technology for riders seeking dependable versatility.
Versatile at heart, the V-STROM 1050 is many motorcycles in one. Its extensive lineup of Suzuki Genuine Accessories makes it easy to tailor the motorcycle to a wide range of riding styles and touring needs. Whether commuting, touring, or exploring new destinations, the V-STROM 1050 is ready for the journey.
- 2027 V-STROM 1050
- MSRP $15,699
- Click Here for More Details
- V-STROM 1050DE
The 2027 Suzuki V-STROM 1050DE is an elevated version of the trusted V-STROM sport adventure touring platform, featuring robust, off-road-ready upgrades to help riders tackle diverse terrain. At its heart lies a reliable, torque-rich 1037cc V-twin engine paired with a chassis engineered for serious off-road exploration.
Built with a dedicated version of the rugged cast-aluminum twin-spar frame, an extended swingarm, and a reinforced subframe, the 1050DE is engineered to tackle any road or trail.
Its increased ground clearance, combined with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke-style wheels wrapped in Dunlop Adventure tires, and fully adjustable long-travel suspension, make it primed for paved and dirt roads alike.
Rugged styling details such as an off-road specific front fender, aluminum engine protector, and accessory bar reinforce its all-terrain purpose. For riders who demand uncompromising off-road ability combined with on-road comfort, the V-STROM 1050DE is the ultimate companion.
- 2027 V-STROM 1050DE
- MSRP $16,649
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-S1000
The 2027 Suzuki GSX-S1000 delivers excellent performance and commanding street presence, continuing the legacy of Suzuki’s GSX-R-powered naked sportbike platform. This reputation comes naturally when Suzuki’s championship-winning expertise from MotoGP and Superbike is distilled into a road-ready machine.
For 2027, updated pricing makes Suzuki’s flagship naked sportbike more accessible than ever while preserving the performance and technology riders expect.
At the center of the GSX-S1000’s cockpit is a vibrant 5-inch full-color TFT display, giving instant clarity on the advanced electronic rider aids of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) and highlighting the smooth, potent acceleration of its GSX-R1000-derived long-stroke engine.
Crafted for agility and balanced handling, the GSX-S1000 has a twin-spar aluminum frame paired with a superbike-inspired swingarm. Complemented by fully adjustable KYB suspension and Brembo monoblock 4-piston front brake calipers gripping 310mm stainless-steel rotors, it delivers precision and confidence on every ride.
Bold styling cues such as stacked mono-focus LED headlights and aerodynamic radiator shrouds with winglets reinforce the GSX-S1000’s aggressive streetfighter styling.The GSX-S1000 stands as the naked sportbike for riders who demand top-tier performance without sacrificing versatility.
- 2027 GSX-S1000
- MSRP $10,798 | New Price Adjustment
- Click Here for More Details
- GSX-S1000GT+
The 2027 GSX-S1000GT+ blends sportbike performance with long-distance touring comfort, delivering Suzuki’s signature reliability alongside advanced cargo and electronic features.
Powered by a GSX-R1000-derived engine, the GT+ delivers smooth, responsive power across the rev range, making overtaking effortless and enjoyable.
Enhanced by the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), the GSX-S1000GT+ offers refined performance and rider-focused convenience. The advanced rider aids of S.I.R.S. include Smart Cruise Control, Bi-directional Quick Shift, and adjustable traction control and power modes that help deliver a smooth and engaging riding experience.
Ergonomics strike a balance between long-distance comfort and a sporty, responsive riding posture. The lightweight aluminum twin-spar frame and adjustable KYB suspension can be tailored to match road conditions and rider preference. Designed for serious sport touring, the GT+ features integrated side cases spacious enough to accommodate full-face helmets, and they can be removed or reinstalled in seconds.
The full-color 6.5-inch TFT screen makes it easy to manage S.I.R.S. settings while offering smartphone connectivity via Suzuki mySPIN™ with a compatible smartphone, providing access to supported navigation, music, and communication features. Whether carving through mountain roads or cruising with a passenger, the GSX-S1000GT+ strikes an impressive balance between sportbike performance and touring comfort.
- GSX-S1000GX+
The 2027 GSX-S1000GX+ bridges the gap between sport touring and adventure riding, offering a unique blend of performance, versatility, and comfort as Suzuki’s first Crossover motorcycle.
With longer suspension travel and increased ground clearance, the Crossover GSX-S1000GX+ excels on both smooth asphalt and less-than-ideal road surfaces. Advanced electronic features, such as Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES) and the Road Adaptive Stabilization (SRAS) system, help boost rider comfort and confidence.
Powered by the legendary GSX-R1000-derived engine, the GX+ delivers thrilling performance with a refined ride. Its upright ergonomics, integrated luggage, and premium styling make it an ideal choice for riders seeking sportbike performance with long-distance touring capability.
From urban streets to twisty mountain roads and long highway stretches, the GSX-S1000GX+ Crossover sport tourer is engineered to take on a wide variety of riding conditions with confidence.
- 2027 GSX-S1000GX+
- MSRP $18,949
- Click Here for More Details
ABOUT SUZUKI:
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering. Specifications, appearances, equipment, color, features, materials and other items of “SUZUKI” products shown are subject to change by manufacturer at any time without notice.
Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © 2026 Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
AHRMA Vintage Cup Results at Nelson Ledges Road Course
The Vintage Cup series continued at Nelson Ledges Road Course September 12–13 as part of the 2026 AHRMA National Roadracing Series presented by VIB-ISO.
Sponsored by Roadracingworld.com and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), AHRMA’s 2026 Vintage Cup features the 250 Grand Prix class: any fully GP-kitted 250cc OHV/OHC four-stroke; 250cc air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke; 175cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke; or 175cc air-cooled twin-cylinder two-stroke built before December 31, 1968. It is a showdown of classic small-displacement racing that lives on corner speed, momentum, and precise engineering—and it rarely fails to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Typical 250GP grids mix machines such as Aermacchi, Bultaco, Greeves, Montesa, Ducati, NSU, Ossa, and more.
Heavy rain arrived as Saturday’s Vintage Cup race started and stayed through the afternoon, yet the grid still went out 15 bikes strong.
Jonas Stein took the hole shot on his 1972 Honda CB175, with Craig Hirko’s 1967 Bridgestone TA1 right on him. Hirko moved into the lead on lap 2, then went down in the last turn before the front straight and slid off the pavement. Rob Hall, on his 1965 Honda CB160, had to take to the grass to miss him. Hall then hunted Stein down and made the pass for the lead in the back section on lap 3. Stein never quite got it back and finished a close second. Robert Himmelman rounded out the podium on a 1970 Yamaha CS3.
Sunday opened overcast but dry, with good grip. Paul Germain grabbed the hole shot on his 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Hall slotting in behind. Germain retired with a mechanical after lap one, handing the lead to Hall. Dustin Johnson, on his 1968 Yamaha YCS1, tried to close the gap but could not. Tim Terrell held third on a 1966 Honda CB160.
Meanwhile a three-way scrap developed among Trevor Scales (1969 Honda CB160), Holly Varey, and Stein. Minutes before the start Varey found a flat on her 1968 VanTech CS3. Hall, who had brought the late Kevin Burns’ 1972 Honda CB175 to the track to memorialize him, texted her by coincidence, learned about the flat, and told her to come straight to his pit and take the bike. She did—and spent the race swapping places with Scales and Stein. Just before the white-flag lap Hall suffered a mechanical and pulled off, promoting Johnson to first, Terrell to second, and Stein to third. Scales took fourth, Varey fifth.
“As a sponsor and fan, I am chuffed to see such healthy grids and competitive racing as we did in our Vintage Cup class both days this weekend at the fabled Nelson Ledges. One thing that is very clear about this season is, it’s anyone’s race to take the top step. We’ve had more riders take the top step this year than I can remember in any of the Vintage Cup classes. Every race has its own crazy story, and the race action is as it can only be with fast riders on little bikes!
I also want to give a shout-out to our bud Rob Hall and his better half Caitlin for being there for AHRMA trustee Kevin Burns in the last months of his sunset days and getting Kevin’s bike out there with Holly riding at 3rd call! That’s the kind of camaraderie that exemplifies AHRMA!
We are a few weeks away from the biggest show of all – Barber Vintage Festival. I would love to see 15 bikes on the grid again as we had at Nelson. But never enough… let’s have more! There’s a purse for the top 5 riders – enough to put a little dosh back into your pockets. So, let’s make this the biggest final show and go out with style after a rough and tumble 2026 season”, said series sponsor Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton.
AHRMA first launched the Vintage Cup series in 2019 by spotlighting the 350 GP class. The series resumed in 2021 and highlighted the 500 Premier class, followed by Vintage Superbike Heavyweight in 2022 and Formula 750 in 2023. In 2024 the second rotation of featured classes began with 350GP, then 500 Premier in 2025. 250GP was added in 2026—the first year it has been featured.
“The twists and turns of this year’s Vintage Cup brought nothing but excitement at Nelson Ledges. With Rob Hall on the grid, I knew the podium would look different—and Saturday’s rain made sure of it. Between Hall’s performance and the weather, the podium saw a complete shake‑up with no Varey, Hirko, or Germain in the mix.
Sunday arrived with bated breath, waiting to see what would unfold next. The Vintage Cup race turned into another stunner, as mechanical issues took out Hall, Germain, and Hirko. Even so, the racing stayed fierce—and I couldn’t help but smile when Dustin Johnson claimed first, marking his second top‑step finish across two different race weekends.
Next up is Barber, and I know the excitement will only continue!” said Leasha Overturf, AHRMA’s Road Race Director.
Rounds 21 and 22 of the AHRMA National Road Race Series presented by VIB-ISO will close the season October 10–11 at the 21st Barber Vintage Festival at Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds, AL.
The annual Vintage Cup spotlights one of AHRMA’s road racing classes with extra attention on competitors in the selected class at each race event. Enhanced awards for Vintage Cup competitors are presented separately from other class trophies during the Saturday awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Road Race event. Highlights from each Vintage Cup race are reported in RoadracingWorld.com’s online edition. At the end of the season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy is engraved with the national champion’s name and presented at the National Awards Banquet to keep for one year.
- 2026 AHRMA Roadracing Series Presented by VIB-ISO, 250GP – Vintage Cup Results:
Nelson Ledges Road Course – Saturday, September 12, 2026
- 270 Rob Hall, 1965 Honda CB160, Charlotte, NC
- 123 Jonas Stein, 1972 Honda CB175, Nashville, TN
- 62X Robert Himmelman, 1970 Yamaha CS3, New Glarus, WI
- 87 Eric Watts, 1966 Ducati 250, Johnstown, OH
- 220 Tim Terrell, 1966 Honda CB160, Burlington, NC
- 760 Dustin Johnson, 1968 Yamaha YCS1, San Francisco, CA
- 17X Alex McLean, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Jacksonville Beach, FL
- 7 David Roper, 1967 Harley-Davidson CRTT, Hicksville, NY
- 50H Holly Varey, 1968 VanTech CS3, Brantford, ON
- 97F Francis Ganance, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Cincinnati, OH
- 903 Robert Brangaccio, 1971 Ducati 250, Basking Ridge, NJ
- 115 Tom Watkins, 1966 Ducati Mach 1, Leetonia, OH
- 779 Trever Scales, 1969 Honda CB160, Graham, NC
- 61 Paul Germain, 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Winnipeg, MB
- 641 Craig Hirko, 1967 Bridgestone TA 1, Newark Valley, NY
Nelson Ledges Road Course – Sunday, September 13, 2026
- 760 Dustin Johnson, 1968 Yamaha YCS1, San Francisco, CA
- 220 Tim Terrell, 1966 Honda CB160, Burlington, NC
- 123 Jonas Stein, 1972 Honda CB175, Nashville, TN
- 779 Trever Scales, 1969 Honda CB160, Graham, NC
- 50H Holly Varey, 1972 Honda CB175, Brantford, ON
- 62X Robert Himmelman, 1970 Yamaha CS3, New Glarus, WI
- 17X Alex McLean, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Jacksonville Beach, FL
- 97F Francis Ganance, 1966 Ducati 250 Single, Cincinnati, OH
- 641 Craig Hirko, 1967 Bridgestone TA 1, Newark Valley, NY
- 115 Tom Watkins, 1966 Ducati Mach 1, Leetonia, OH
- 903 Robert Brangaccio, 1971 Ducati 250, Basking Ridge, NJ
- 270 Rob Hall, 1965 Honda CB160, Charlotte, NC
- 61 Paul Germain, 1967 Yamaha DTIRR, Winnipeg, MB
About AHRMA:
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With over 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.
MotoGP: Espargaró Continues Tech3 Run at KTM’s Home GP
Pol Espargaró will continue to race for Tech3 at this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix (18-20 September), deputising for Maverick Viñales at the Red Bull Ring.
As KTM’s Official Test and Reserve Rider, Espargaró will once again join the MotoGP grid, looking to fly the orange flag in front of the Austrian crowd as he makes his fourth consecutive appearance for the team this season.
Espargaró produced a standout Qualifying performance at the previous round in San Marino, a clear marker of how far he has progressed since returning to the Tech3 garage.
Having stepped in for Viñales at Silverstone, Aragón, and Misano, the Spaniard arrives at KTM’s home event with valuable race mileage under his belt, while Tech3 remains hopeful that Viñales will be fit to return when the championship heads overseas to Japan.
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager, said: “It means a lot to have Pol with us for our factory’s home race in Austria. Every time he gets back on the bike he looks more comfortable and competitive, and Misano was another positive step forward. We know we can count on his experience and professionalism, and we’re looking forward to seeing him race in front of the orange army this weekend. At the same time, our priority remains supporting Maverick’s recovery and we hope to have him back with us as soon as possible.”
Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: Misano 2026
By Mat Oxley:
Sometimes, fights fight over the silliest things. As their highly-paid producer, I can tell you that Mat and Peter are no different. This weekend, the subject of Mizano’s Curvone came up. You know, that famous 11th turn at San Marino. Except that it might not be a turn, but a kink. Or maybe it isn’t. I’m not going to give a definitive answer here – I’m trying to preserve a very delicate peace!
Luckily, there’s lots of other things that happened during the race that we can talk about, because there was a lot going on today. Marco Bezzecchi was blazingly fast. How fast? Fast enough that he finished his entire race in one lap. Beat that! We all love an axe murderer, but that might have been a little too much. Peter hopes it doesn’t get to him, because in racing nobody can afford to take it easy at the start. Better luck next time.
Then there’s Jorge Martin, looking quite awake, and Alex Marquez, fully coming alive. But nobody was able to stop Marc Marquez from claiming victory. His doctor says he’s only got about 40% capability left in that arm, but Marc keeps proving the old saying that nobody beats the one-armed bandit. Meanwhile, we’ve got Acosta getting adventurous in the KTM-garage and some interesting livery which honors both the dead and salty potato crisps.
Yeah, sounds like a regular episode. Cheers!
– – –
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MotoGP: Tech3 Signs Agius for MotoGP Debut From 2027
The Australian joins the team for the start of MotoGP’s new technical era.
The 2027 grid is complete! Tech3 have announced that Senna Agius will join the team from next season as the new era of technical regulations comes into force. The Aussie is the final rider on the 22-strong grid to be announced, completing the line-up for a history-making season of MotoGP.
Who is Senna Agius? Meet Australia’s new MotoGP star
From his breakthrough in the Moto2 European Championship as runner-up in 2022 and champion the following year, the Australian made the move into Moto2 World Championship for 2024 and was on the podium in his rookie year. He has since established himself as a leading talent in Moto2™, claiming multiple victories and podium finishes and underlining his credentials as he prepares to take the next step in his career.
The Australian’s arrival will complete Tech3’s 2027 rider line-up alongside Luca Marini. Together, the pair will form a combination of experience and youth as Tech3 begins the next chapter of its partnership with KTM and enters the next era for MotoGP with new regulations and machinery.
Senna Agius said: “Today, a lifelong dream of mine has come true: reaching MotoGP. So many years of hard work have gone into this moment, and I’m incredibly grateful to Guenther and everyone at Tech3 for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to repay their faith. I know the challenge ahead, but I’m ready to learn, work hard, and become the best version of myself with this team.
“A huge thank you to my family, friends, and everyone who has supported me and made sacrifices throughout my journey. I’d also like to thank every team, engineer, and mechanic I’ve worked with over the years – they’ve all played a part in helping me reach this point. I can’t wait to get started and make everyone proud.”
Guenther Steiner, Tech3 CEO, said: “We believe Senna has the qualities to make a very strong step into MotoGP. He has shown impressive speed and maturity in Moto2, but what really stood out to us was his determination to keep improving and his attitude towards the work required to succeed.
“We are building a team for a completely new era of MotoGP, and we wanted to combine experience with young talent. Senna represents an exciting part of that future. We know there will be a lot for him to learn but we are ready to support him through that process. We are very pleased to welcome him to Tech3 and look forward to seeing him grow with us.”
Nicolas Goyon, Tech3 Team Manager, said: “Senna has demonstrated throughout his Moto2 career that he has both the speed and the mentality to take on this new challenge. He is still young, so there is a lot of potential for us to develop together, and we are excited to be part of the next stage of his career.
“Starting MotoGP with completely new regulations and machinery will be a big challenge for every rider, but it also gives us an opportunity to build something together from the beginning. Senna is hungry to learn, he works hard, and he has already shown that he can fight at the front. We are very happy to have him joining Tech3 and cannot wait to see what we can achieve together.”