Italy’s AIROH Invades USA with New Product & Teams
Stronger, more powerfully innovative products…and people
With a renewed commitment toward assembling the best distribution and sales team in the United States, AIROH Helmets of Italy has obtained and secured distribution rights for the innovative brand’s world-renowned helmet products with an all new AIROH USA facility and team. Dennis Bloch, affiliated with SEVEN MX, James Stewart’s apparel company, will be heading up the new distribution, marketing and sales teams here in America. More well-known helmet executives and sales representatives will be announced following at the product’s media launch to be held in southern California on January 23rd.
An AIROH Spark2 Deco Blue helmet.
Known for its incredibly beautiful and functional Italian designs, AIROH Helmets will be revealing its latest products for distribution to dealers in 2025. It’s upgraded facility located in Bergamo, northern Italy complete with its own wind tunnel and helmet testing laboratory is true to its founder’s mission: to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design and performance. It is true many other helmet brands make similar claims, but it is undisputed that Italian companies have a keen eye for beautiful design and par excellence taste. Founder Antonio Locatelli has always had a deep passion for the racing world and has thus included its embedded DNA into each product manufactured and beautifully crafted in Bergamo, Italy enabling the company to obtain 150 world titles in motorcycle racing.
An AIROH GP 800 Competition Red helmet.
Dennis Bloch, CEO of AIROH USA, proudly shares, “AIROH has had a presence in the USA Supercross field for about 10 years, but we are now equipped with a broader product lineup and an exceptional sales team to make a significant impact. From off-road and street to cruiser and sportbike helmets, AIROH is poised to offer it all. Nicknamed the ‘Ferrari for your head,’ the brand captivates anyone who sees it—and truly impresses once they pick it up. Known for its deep racing heritage, lightweight design, and striking aesthetics, AIROH stands apart.”
The brand will be available directly to dealers through AIROH USA in Spring 2025. Stay tuned for the launch!
Look for AIROH Helmets on the heads of Jason Anderson, Tom Vialle, MRP Husqvarna, Cody Webb, and Cooper Abbott this year in the USA. On the international circuit, look for AIROH helmets on Jeffrey Herlings, Antonio Cairoli, Liam Everts, David Alonso, Andrea Locatelli, Danilo Petrucci and many more.
An AIROH Aviator Sabre Red off-road and motocross helmet.
About AIROH Helmets Italy
Airoh was founded in the province of Bergamo, in Northern Italy, the company has always had a clear mission to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design, and performance. These features, designed to satisfy the best riders, are available to every passionate two-wheeled enthusiast who uses them on asphalt, dirt, sand, snow, and in any other terrain. Over the years, the company’s DNA has evolved, but it has never forgotten its origins, values, and the deep passion for the racing world, and beyond. This passion has consistently led to the achievement of incredible milestones, as evidenced by the company’s impressive
list of accomplishments, including and incredible number of over 150 world titles from 1997 to the present. #DARETOBEGREAT
About AIROH USA
Airoh’s U.S. entity embodies the same passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence that originated in Bergamo, Italy. Dedicated to providing high-quality helmets designed for safety, performance, and style, Airoh brings its legacy of over 150 world titles to American riders. The A iroh USA team is being formed with top industry experts in each field, ensuring unparalleled expertise and strategy as Airoh establishes a strong presence in the American powersports market. Whether conquering asphalt or dirt Airoh helmets are crafted to meet the demands of champions and enthusiasts alike. With deep roots in the racing world and an unwavering #DARETOBEGREAT philosophy, Airoh is poised to inspire and protect riders across the United States.
The 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship wasn’t just about the epic action on track. Here are some of the key numbers from the last 12 months.
45: The 2024 season was the FIM Endurance World Championship’s 45th
10: It was also the 10th promoted by Warner Bros. Discovery Sports
4: For the first time, Superstock teams could enter four riders to race in the two 24-hour contests
1: In another first for the EWC, the Suzuka 8 Hours formed part of the FIM Endurance World Cup schedule
8: Rather than running for 24 hours, Belgium’s EWC counter became the 8 Hours of Spa Motos, the first eight-hour EWC race in Europe since 2019
6.985: At 6.985 kilometres, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps was the longest on the EWC calendar
4.185: Meanwhile, at 4.185 kilometres, Circuit Bugatti was the shortest
54: Former EWC champion Jason Pridmore was 54 years and 25 days old when he made a one-off return to the championship in the 8 Hours of Spa Motos
18: When the 2024 EWC season began at Le Mans, Daniel González was 18 years, nine months and five days old
4: Dan Linfoot finished on the podium in all four EWC races in 2024 (below)
13: The Briton’s performances helped Yoshimura SERT Motul win a 13th EWC title (11 times as Suzuki Endurance Racing Team and two times as Yoshimura SERT Motul)
3: Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team pole run stretched to three events before being halted by BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team
43: Team Bolliger Switzerland has completed 43 consecutive seasons in the EWC
30: Team HRC’s third Suzuka 8 Hours victory in a row was also the 30th by the squad
1: Team Aviobike by M2 Revo’s 8 Hours of Spa Superstock victory was its first in the EWC and the first for the Aprilia brand
685: Gino Rea returned from serious injury to race in the EWC after a gap of 685 days
2: Niccolò Canepa retired from racing as a two-time EWC champion
1: Sébastien Suchet helped National Motos Honda FMA to its first FIM Endurance World Cup for Teams before calling time on his competition career
40: Suzuki Motor Corporation contested the 45th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race with a motorcycle using 40 per cent bio-sourced sustainable fuel, plus other eco-friendly products
1: MotoGP star Johann Zarco (below) scored his first EWC victory on his championship debut when he triumphed at Suzuka.
Thanks for running an obit on Bob. He was the very best friend and business partner anyone could wish for. A total enthusiast who put a huge amount of effort into supporting so many riders. He had tremendous success racing in the U.S. with Rich Schlachter, Kork Ballington, Wayne Rainey etc. before we started the World Championship Motorsports (WCM) 500cc Grand Prix team.
Then he enabled us to do fantastic things as WCM, becoming the best privateer 500cc team with riders that included Peter Goddard, Niall Mackenzie, Neil Hodgson, Andrew Stroud, Mark Willis and Kirk McCarthy which gained us Yamaha’s respect so that they offered us the factory bikes in 1997. Then, with riders such as Luca Cadalora, Troy Corser, Simon Crafar, Regis Laconi, Garry McCoy, John Hopkins, Jean-Michel Bayle and Alex Hofmann we won GPs and competed for the 500cc World Championship.
WCM co-owner Bob MacLean receives the team trophy after rider Simon Crafar won a 500cc Grand Prix on one of the team’s Red Bull Yamaha YZR500s at Donington Park, 1998. Lou Martin photo/courtesy WCM.
When the class switched to MotoGP and Yamaha could not supply us with bikes, we built the WCM MotoGP machines and ran Chris Burns, David de Gea, James Ellison, Franco Battaini and Youichi Ui.
Bob did all of this and built a huge population of friends around the world, far beyond the riders involved: The team members all looked up to Bob and appreciated his wonderful drive and good humor as well as unwavering support. Bob MacLean was unique and very special. May he rest in peace…
WCM co-owners Bob MacLean (left) and Peter Clifford (right), circa 1997. Lou Martin photo/courtesy WCM.
More, from the November 2018 issue of Roadracing World:
On the Front Cover: Fabio Di Giannantonio’s MotoGP career looked like it was over at the end of 2023 and again at the end of 2024. Now he’s one of only three riders with a contract to race a Ducati GP25. Gigi Soldano/DPPI Media Photo.
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JANUARY 2025 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: KTM Vows To Continue Racing, Ducati Introduces Panigale
V4 Tricolore, FIM Sanctions Bagger Racing In Europe, and more…
Intro: Triumph Speed Twin 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 RS
Shops: The Renaissance Of Fantic And Minarelli
RACING
Racer Profile: Garrett Gerloff’s World Superbike Adventure
Racing History: Shooting Star Johnny Cecotto
MotoGP Analysis: Marc Marquez Tells (Almost) All
MotoGP Analysis: Fabio Di Giannantonio Is A Survivor
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: R.I.P. Bob MacLean; 98cc 111-mph 1950s Streamliner;
Outing Cherohala Skyway; Aero In The USA, Back In The Day
10 Years Ago, January 2015: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich rides the 2015 BMW S 1000;
Yamaha introduces the limited-edition YZF-R1M ; Shops Visits Sportbike Track Gear; Marc Marquez wins MotoGP races; Sylvain Guintoli’s Superbike World Champ on an Aprilia; and BEi Racing beats AOD to win the WERA Endurance Championship by 0.66-point!
The Crash Page: Marc Marquez Crashed Less In 2024!
2025 Racing, School, & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: On Track With Van
The following track days, riding schools, and racing events are scheduled by organizations based in the United States during January and February 2025.
This list includes 36 opportunities (days) to ride at races, schools, and track days during the months of January and February in North America.
(To have your motorcycle racing or riding event added to the Event Calendar on this website and published in the print edition of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine, submit your calendar and contact information via the contact page on this website or by emailing to [email protected] or to [email protected].)
1/2-3-4 SFLminiGP Championship Series Bushnell Motorsports Park, Bushnell, FL (3-day camp)
1/4-5 Race Pace No Sessions Track Days, Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, Desert Center, CA
Italtrans, leading company in road transport for large-scale distribution, and Prometheon Tire Group, a manufacturer of tires for trucks, buses and agricultural machinery, announce the renewal of their partnership in view of the Dakar 2025. Thanks to an exclusive agreement, Prometeon brings “Petrux” to compete again in the Dakar, this time not on a motorbike but on a truck, alternating driving with Claudio Bellina, lead driver in his 17th Dakar, and navigator Marco Arnoletti with Italtrans Racing Team – Rally Division with truck number 608.
The Bellina family continues with passion its adventure in the Dakar, a commitment that has lasted 16 years. Also this year it confirms its participation in the competition, strong of the results obtained in the last edition, concluded with a prestigious 7th place overall, one step away from the top five.
Danilo Petrucci is an important presence: born in Terni in 1990, Petrucci is considered “the man of the four worlds”: he is in fact the only rider to have won at least one race in MotoGP, MotoAmerica, Superbike and the Dakar. This will be his second experience in the most famous rally in the world, after his participation in 2022 on a motorbike with which he achieved a splendid stage victory.
The transition from two to four wheels represents an unprecedented challenge for “petrux”, where he will be able to count on the experience and technological innovation of Italtrans vehicles, Bellina and his team, as well as on the reliable performance of Prometeon tyres, specifically designed for heavy vehicles in off-road competitions.
There is a common thread that links Petrucci to the world of four wheels, his father, in fact, was a truck driver and also a truck for MotoGP. Thanks to Prometeon and the renewal of the partnership between the two companies, Petrucci will drive a rally truck in one of the most difficult competitions in Motorsport and this marks another important step in his career.
“I am very happy to join the Italtrans crew and I can’t wait to get on board with Claudio Bellina” said Danilo Petrucci. “I would also like to thank Prometeon for making this unique opportunity possible. The Dakar is a fascinating challenge and I am excited to experience it for the second time. I will have a lot to learn and I will give my all to help achieve a good result”.
Claudio Bellina said: “After the emotions of 2024, we are preparing to experience those of 2025. Last year was a beautiful edition, because it was done with a different truck than in previous years. The Dakar is a tough challenge, it is not a walk in the park, but we had fun and at the same time we brought home a good result, almost reaching the top five. In the next edition, Marco Arnoletti will still be with me with his great expertise, and the new entry Danilo Petrucci, who with his experience as a driver will add value to our team. We will have our eyes focused and we will give our all to have fun and bring home a good result. I want to thank all the sponsors, first and foremost Prometeon and Bosch, for their support in this great adventure”.
“We are thrilled to have brought Danilo Petrucci into this new adventure” said Roberto Righi, CEO of Prometeon. “Together with Claudio Bellina and Marco Arnoletti they form an extraordinary team that combines passion, talent and competence, essential qualities to face a difficult challenge like the Dakar, where the unexpected is always around the corner. In this type of competition, to excel, high-level performance, team spirit and technological innovation are necessary: values that Prometeon shares and fully supports”.
Arnoletti: “This will be my eighth Dakar, the second with Italtrans Racing Team. Last year was a wonderful experience, because with Claudio’s team I found everything an enthusiast could want: a professional team, excellent people, a super competitive vehicle, but above all a real family with whom I share a great passion for rallies. Claudio is an exceptional driver, who makes the difference, and this year Danilo will be with us: he is a unique driver, who has won in all the championships in which he has raced. Being part of this team is a source of great pride for me. I can’t wait to leave for this new great adventure”.
The collaboration between Italtrans and Prometeon aims to enhance the resistance of Prometeon tires, designed to withstand the most extreme conditions such as those offered by the Dakar. After the excellent performance of the last edition, which saw the Prometeon Serie 02 tires for the first time on Iveco Italtrans trucks, the mix of experience in competitions by Petrucci and Bellina represents a further step to further test the reliability and the already high performance of both these tires and the trucks on rough terrain such as those of the Dakar.
The next appointment with the Dakar Rally is for January 3, 2025 when the lights will go out in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, for the 47th edition of the toughest race in the world.
Robert John MacLean (Bob), devoted husband, father, and educator passed away peacefully at his home in Wilson, Wyoming on December 14, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California to Robert John MacLean and Mary Witty MacLean. Bob led a life marked by deep commitment to education, sports, and community.
A graduate of Bronxville High School (Class of 1955), Bob earned a BA in English from Colby College in 1960. After Colby, Bob served three years in the United States Army National Guard. His love of teaching led him to a distinguished career as an educator, beginning with The Allen Stevenson School in New York City. He later joined Rye Country Day School, where he taught English, and spearheaded the construction and operation of the Gerald LaGrange Field House, an ice hockey rink and tennis complex. Bob was the head coach of the Varsity Hockey and Lacrosse teams and served as an assistant Varsity Football coach. In addition, he shared his love of hockey with the Wildcat Hockey Camp, which he founded and ran for multiple years. Bob’s dedication to the sport was further exemplified by his participation in the Master Coaches Clinic, with Fred Shero as headmaster. He served as Chairman of the Hockey Committee for the Hickory Hill Skating Rink in Katonah, NY. He was President of the Southern New England Interscholastic Ice Hockey Coaches Association and was a member of the American Hockey Coaches’ Association.
After many years of racing motorcycles himself, Bob founded World Championship Motorsports in 1991, of which he was the co-owner/ operator until 2005. WCM competed at the highest level of International Motorsports in the FIM Grand Prix Motorcycle series. His entrepreneurial spirit, like his commitment to education and athletics, was a testament to his talent as a leader.
Bob was deeply involved in the community, notably serving on the Board of South Kent School from 1990 to 1999, including as President from 1995 to 1999, where his leadership and generosity helped shape the school’s future. Bob was also an active board member of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary for over two decades and served on the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe.
In Wilson, Wyoming, Bob found peace and fulfillment in his love of fly fishing and spending time on his ranch. A supporter of local causes, he contributed to organizations such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the region.
Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Anna (Marna) MacLean. They raised three sons in Waccabuc, NY and later split their time between Lost Tree Village, Florida and their home in Wilson, Wyoming. Bob is also survived by his three sons, Chris MacLean (Cathryn Kishbaugh), Ian MacLean and Mark MacLean (Marsha Yamaykina) and his five grandchildren.
Bob’s love of life, his sense of humor, and positive outlook will be remembered by his friends and family.
Bob MacLean (right) and Peter Clifford in 1997; they started World Championship Motorsports (WCM) in 1992.
Bob MacLean at Daytona in 1987, when his team raced Hondas in AMA Formula 1. Photo by John Ulrich.
Bob MacLean (center) with Garry McCoy and Mick Doohan on a 500cc Grand Prix grid with mechanics in 2001.
Bob MacLean (center), rider Rich Schlachter and mechanic Donnie Dove with a TZ250 Yamaha at the 1981 British Grand Prix. Photo by Ian MacLean.Bob MacLean in retirement, at home in Wyoming in 2018.
While the long-term outlook for KTM is generally positive, the company will not participate in Grand Prix-level motorcycle road racing in 2026, saving an estimated $47.8 million per year, according to a report from one of Austria’s most prominent national newspapers.
The report, published by Der Standard, says that the company will not withdraw prior to 2026 because it fears “significant PR damage” if it withdraws from Grand Prix racing any earlier.
KTM is undergoing a financial restructuring, layoffs, and a production halt after incurring at least $1.87 billion in debt as well as accumulating excessive unsold inventory. A report from the agency representing the company’s creditors says the company “plans” to withdraw from “MotoGP Moto2/Moto3” racing. The Der Standard report quotes an internal document prepared by the Boston Consulting Group for the restructuring administrator; that document outlines the timeline for the departure and the expected annual savings.
The company spent approximately $208 million on R&D in 2023, with overall motorsports activity spending at approximately $98.8 million, a figure the restructuring administrator called “exceptionally high,” according to the Der Standard report.
Withdrawing at the end of 2025 may require the company to negotiate an end to several contracts. KTM’s 2024 announcement of the signing of Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini to the Tech3 squad, which is slated to have full factory equipment in 2025, said the pair was signed as part of a “multi-year agreement.” Brad Binder’s contract runs through 2026, according to the KTM press center, and the contract Pedro Acosta signed with the company in 2024 also is a “multi-year” agreement, according to KTM’s announcement of the deal. And KTM has a contract with MotoGP series organizer Dorna to put bikes on the grid.
Anticipated growth in the off-road market is expected to help pull KTM out of its current financial difficulties, the report indicates. That segment of the market is expected to grow 3.5 annually in the near future, and KTM’s share of that market hovers between 40 and 60%, the report indicates.
The next court hearing for KTM is set for January 24th.
What Is KTM?
The company at the center of the insolvency is KTM AG, according to a report issued by the agency representing creditors owed money. But it is part of a complex arrangement of companies and subsidiaries–the report says that KTM alone has more than 60 subsidiaries. A review of the company’s financial reports shows that most of these are distribution and supply entities that depend on KTM AG’s activities, and several of these are expected to go through insolvency proceedings as well.
KTM is one of five operating divisions of Pierer Mobility AG. Under the KTM umbrella is Husqvarna, GASGAS, and MV Agusta, although KTM’s 51% ownership stake in the Italian sportbike company is expected to be spun off as part of the restructuring. KTM also has an ownership interest in the Chinese manufacturer CFMOTO and its electric vehicle sub-brand Zeeho.
Pierer Mobility’s other divisions include the Husqvarna, GASGAS and Felt bicycle division; the design and R&D division, headed by Kiska, KTM F&E and Cero; an IT division that includes Pierer Innovation, Avocado, LX Media and KTM Informatics and “operate(s) within various technology fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Blockchain and Business Modeling,” according to the company website; and its Motorsport Factory Racing division.
Pierer Bajaj AG is the majority owner of Pierer Mobility. The Bajaj Group is a massive Indian conglomeration with interests in motorcycles, cars, home appliances, lighting, iron and steel, insurance, travel and finance, according to Wikipedia. The Bajaj family is worth $23.4 billion, according to Forbes.
Pierer Industrie AG is the majority owner of Pierer Bajaj. As of November, Pierer Industrie operated three major divisions, including Abatec, a technology/electronics company; Pierer Bajaj AG; and Pankl AG, which operates in the racing, automotive and aerospace industries.
Pierer Industrie AG corporate structure chart as of November 2024.
KTM’s Racing Plans For 2025:
KTM’s racing activities fall into four main categories: Road Racing, Motocross/Supercross, Enduro/Off Road and Rally.
For 2025, the company plans to field six riders in the Motocross World Championship (MXGP) series on KTM 450 SX-F and 250 SX-F machines. In North America, KTM is slated to field four riders in the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) series, which incorporates Supercross and Motocross events from January through the summer.
In the Enduro/Off Road category, KTM is slated to field eight factory riders in a variety of North American series. In addition, the company will field at least two factory riders in Europe, where the company’s factory racing teams compete in more than 100 enduro races each year.
In the Rally segment, KTM plans to field four riders for the Dakar rally.
In Grand Prix road racing, KTM has shelved its GASGAS and Husqvarna brands for 2025. The official provisional entry lists show two riders on the Red Bull KTM Ajo team and two on the CFMOTO Aspar team in Moto2; 16 riders on the company’s RC250GP machines in Moto3; and the two-rider factory Red Bull squad and the two-rider Tech3 team in MotoGP.
A rider wearing an AIROH GP 800 FIM Racing helmet..
Italy’s AIROH Invades USA with New Product & Teams
Stronger, more powerfully innovative products…and people
With a renewed commitment toward assembling the best distribution and sales team in the United States, AIROH Helmets of Italy has obtained and secured distribution rights for the innovative brand’s world-renowned helmet products with an all new AIROH USA facility and team. Dennis Bloch, affiliated with SEVEN MX, James Stewart’s apparel company, will be heading up the new distribution, marketing and sales teams here in America. More well-known helmet executives and sales representatives will be announced following at the product’s media launch to be held in southern California on January 23rd.
An AIROH Spark2 Deco Blue helmet.
Known for its incredibly beautiful and functional Italian designs, AIROH Helmets will be revealing its latest products for distribution to dealers in 2025. It’s upgraded facility located in Bergamo, northern Italy complete with its own wind tunnel and helmet testing laboratory is true to its founder’s mission: to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design and performance. It is true many other helmet brands make similar claims, but it is undisputed that Italian companies have a keen eye for beautiful design and par excellence taste. Founder Antonio Locatelli has always had a deep passion for the racing world and has thus included its embedded DNA into each product manufactured and beautifully crafted in Bergamo, Italy enabling the company to obtain 150 world titles in motorcycle racing.
An AIROH GP 800 Competition Red helmet.
Dennis Bloch, CEO of AIROH USA, proudly shares, “AIROH has had a presence in the USA Supercross field for about 10 years, but we are now equipped with a broader product lineup and an exceptional sales team to make a significant impact. From off-road and street to cruiser and sportbike helmets, AIROH is poised to offer it all. Nicknamed the ‘Ferrari for your head,’ the brand captivates anyone who sees it—and truly impresses once they pick it up. Known for its deep racing heritage, lightweight design, and striking aesthetics, AIROH stands apart.”
The brand will be available directly to dealers through AIROH USA in Spring 2025. Stay tuned for the launch!
Look for AIROH Helmets on the heads of Jason Anderson, Tom Vialle, MRP Husqvarna, Cody Webb, and Cooper Abbott this year in the USA. On the international circuit, look for AIROH helmets on Jeffrey Herlings, Antonio Cairoli, Liam Everts, David Alonso, Andrea Locatelli, Danilo Petrucci and many more.
An AIROH Aviator Sabre Red off-road and motocross helmet.
About AIROH Helmets Italy
Airoh was founded in the province of Bergamo, in Northern Italy, the company has always had a clear mission to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design, and performance. These features, designed to satisfy the best riders, are available to every passionate two-wheeled enthusiast who uses them on asphalt, dirt, sand, snow, and in any other terrain. Over the years, the company’s DNA has evolved, but it has never forgotten its origins, values, and the deep passion for the racing world, and beyond. This passion has consistently led to the achievement of incredible milestones, as evidenced by the company’s impressive
list of accomplishments, including and incredible number of over 150 world titles from 1997 to the present. #DARETOBEGREAT
About AIROH USA
Airoh’s U.S. entity embodies the same passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence that originated in Bergamo, Italy. Dedicated to providing high-quality helmets designed for safety, performance, and style, Airoh brings its legacy of over 150 world titles to American riders. The A iroh USA team is being formed with top industry experts in each field, ensuring unparalleled expertise and strategy as Airoh establishes a strong presence in the American powersports market. Whether conquering asphalt or dirt Airoh helmets are crafted to meet the demands of champions and enthusiasts alike. With deep roots in the racing world and an unwavering #DARETOBEGREAT philosophy, Airoh is poised to inspire and protect riders across the United States.
Moto2 World Champion and MotoGP race winner Johann Zarco does his signature victory backflip after winning at the Suzuki 8 Hours. Photo courtesy EWC.
The 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship wasn’t just about the epic action on track. Here are some of the key numbers from the last 12 months.
45: The 2024 season was the FIM Endurance World Championship’s 45th
10: It was also the 10th promoted by Warner Bros. Discovery Sports
4: For the first time, Superstock teams could enter four riders to race in the two 24-hour contests
1: In another first for the EWC, the Suzuka 8 Hours formed part of the FIM Endurance World Cup schedule
8: Rather than running for 24 hours, Belgium’s EWC counter became the 8 Hours of Spa Motos, the first eight-hour EWC race in Europe since 2019
6.985: At 6.985 kilometres, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps was the longest on the EWC calendar
4.185: Meanwhile, at 4.185 kilometres, Circuit Bugatti was the shortest
54: Former EWC champion Jason Pridmore was 54 years and 25 days old when he made a one-off return to the championship in the 8 Hours of Spa Motos
18: When the 2024 EWC season began at Le Mans, Daniel González was 18 years, nine months and five days old
4: Dan Linfoot finished on the podium in all four EWC races in 2024 (below)
13: The Briton’s performances helped Yoshimura SERT Motul win a 13th EWC title (11 times as Suzuki Endurance Racing Team and two times as Yoshimura SERT Motul)
3: Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team pole run stretched to three events before being halted by BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team
43: Team Bolliger Switzerland has completed 43 consecutive seasons in the EWC
30: Team HRC’s third Suzuka 8 Hours victory in a row was also the 30th by the squad
1: Team Aviobike by M2 Revo’s 8 Hours of Spa Superstock victory was its first in the EWC and the first for the Aprilia brand
685: Gino Rea returned from serious injury to race in the EWC after a gap of 685 days
2: Niccolò Canepa retired from racing as a two-time EWC champion
1: Sébastien Suchet helped National Motos Honda FMA to its first FIM Endurance World Cup for Teams before calling time on his competition career
40: Suzuki Motor Corporation contested the 45th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race with a motorcycle using 40 per cent bio-sourced sustainable fuel, plus other eco-friendly products
1: MotoGP star Johann Zarco (below) scored his first EWC victory on his championship debut when he triumphed at Suzuka.
WCM team co-owners Peter Clifford (left) and Bob MacLean (right) cheer as Simon Crafar wins a 500cc Grand Prix on their Red Bull Yamaha YZR500 at Donington in 1998. Lou Martin photo/Courtesy WCM.
Remembering Bob MacLean
By Peter Clifford
Thanks for running an obit on Bob. He was the very best friend and business partner anyone could wish for. A total enthusiast who put a huge amount of effort into supporting so many riders. He had tremendous success racing in the U.S. with Rich Schlachter, Kork Ballington, Wayne Rainey etc. before we started the World Championship Motorsports (WCM) 500cc Grand Prix team.
Then he enabled us to do fantastic things as WCM, becoming the best privateer 500cc team with riders that included Peter Goddard, Niall Mackenzie, Neil Hodgson, Andrew Stroud, Mark Willis and Kirk McCarthy which gained us Yamaha’s respect so that they offered us the factory bikes in 1997. Then, with riders such as Luca Cadalora, Troy Corser, Simon Crafar, Regis Laconi, Garry McCoy, John Hopkins, Jean-Michel Bayle and Alex Hofmann we won GPs and competed for the 500cc World Championship.
WCM co-owner Bob MacLean receives the team trophy after rider Simon Crafar won a 500cc Grand Prix on one of the team’s Red Bull Yamaha YZR500s at Donington Park, 1998. Lou Martin photo/courtesy WCM.
When the class switched to MotoGP and Yamaha could not supply us with bikes, we built the WCM MotoGP machines and ran Chris Burns, David de Gea, James Ellison, Franco Battaini and Youichi Ui.
Bob did all of this and built a huge population of friends around the world, far beyond the riders involved: The team members all looked up to Bob and appreciated his wonderful drive and good humor as well as unwavering support. Bob MacLean was unique and very special. May he rest in peace…
WCM co-owners Bob MacLean (left) and Peter Clifford (right), circa 1997. Lou Martin photo/courtesy WCM.
More, from the November 2018 issue of Roadracing World:
On the Front Cover: Fabio Di Giannantonio’s MotoGP career looked like it was over at the end of 2023 and again at the end of 2024. Now he’s one of only three riders with a contract to race a Ducati GP25. Gigi Soldano/DPPI Media Photo.
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.
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JANUARY 2025 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: KTM Vows To Continue Racing, Ducati Introduces Panigale
V4 Tricolore, FIM Sanctions Bagger Racing In Europe, and more…
Intro: Triumph Speed Twin 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 RS
Shops: The Renaissance Of Fantic And Minarelli
RACING
Racer Profile: Garrett Gerloff’s World Superbike Adventure
Racing History: Shooting Star Johnny Cecotto
MotoGP Analysis: Marc Marquez Tells (Almost) All
MotoGP Analysis: Fabio Di Giannantonio Is A Survivor
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: R.I.P. Bob MacLean; 98cc 111-mph 1950s Streamliner;
Outing Cherohala Skyway; Aero In The USA, Back In The Day
10 Years Ago, January 2015: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich rides the 2015 BMW S 1000;
Yamaha introduces the limited-edition YZF-R1M ; Shops Visits Sportbike Track Gear; Marc Marquez wins MotoGP races; Sylvain Guintoli’s Superbike World Champ on an Aprilia; and BEi Racing beats AOD to win the WERA Endurance Championship by 0.66-point!
The Crash Page: Marc Marquez Crashed Less In 2024!
2025 Racing, School, & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: On Track With Van
Owen Williams (2) leads Alexander Enriquez (12), Brenden Ketelsen (144), Corey Alexander (1), and Jesus Villalobos (53) in a CVMA Middleweight Shootout race at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in 2024. CaliPhotography/CVMA.
The following track days, riding schools, and racing events are scheduled by organizations based in the United States during January and February 2025.
This list includes 36 opportunities (days) to ride at races, schools, and track days during the months of January and February in North America.
(To have your motorcycle racing or riding event added to the Event Calendar on this website and published in the print edition of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine, submit your calendar and contact information via the contact page on this website or by emailing to [email protected] or to [email protected].)
1/2-3-4 SFLminiGP Championship Series Bushnell Motorsports Park, Bushnell, FL (3-day camp)
1/4-5 Race Pace No Sessions Track Days, Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, Desert Center, CA
Danilo Petrucci with the Italtrans truck he will drive in the Dakar rally. Photo courtesy Italtrans.
Italtrans, leading company in road transport for large-scale distribution, and Prometheon Tire Group, a manufacturer of tires for trucks, buses and agricultural machinery, announce the renewal of their partnership in view of the Dakar 2025. Thanks to an exclusive agreement, Prometeon brings “Petrux” to compete again in the Dakar, this time not on a motorbike but on a truck, alternating driving with Claudio Bellina, lead driver in his 17th Dakar, and navigator Marco Arnoletti with Italtrans Racing Team – Rally Division with truck number 608.
The Bellina family continues with passion its adventure in the Dakar, a commitment that has lasted 16 years. Also this year it confirms its participation in the competition, strong of the results obtained in the last edition, concluded with a prestigious 7th place overall, one step away from the top five.
Danilo Petrucci is an important presence: born in Terni in 1990, Petrucci is considered “the man of the four worlds”: he is in fact the only rider to have won at least one race in MotoGP, MotoAmerica, Superbike and the Dakar. This will be his second experience in the most famous rally in the world, after his participation in 2022 on a motorbike with which he achieved a splendid stage victory.
The transition from two to four wheels represents an unprecedented challenge for “petrux”, where he will be able to count on the experience and technological innovation of Italtrans vehicles, Bellina and his team, as well as on the reliable performance of Prometeon tyres, specifically designed for heavy vehicles in off-road competitions.
There is a common thread that links Petrucci to the world of four wheels, his father, in fact, was a truck driver and also a truck for MotoGP. Thanks to Prometeon and the renewal of the partnership between the two companies, Petrucci will drive a rally truck in one of the most difficult competitions in Motorsport and this marks another important step in his career.
“I am very happy to join the Italtrans crew and I can’t wait to get on board with Claudio Bellina” said Danilo Petrucci. “I would also like to thank Prometeon for making this unique opportunity possible. The Dakar is a fascinating challenge and I am excited to experience it for the second time. I will have a lot to learn and I will give my all to help achieve a good result”.
Claudio Bellina said: “After the emotions of 2024, we are preparing to experience those of 2025. Last year was a beautiful edition, because it was done with a different truck than in previous years. The Dakar is a tough challenge, it is not a walk in the park, but we had fun and at the same time we brought home a good result, almost reaching the top five. In the next edition, Marco Arnoletti will still be with me with his great expertise, and the new entry Danilo Petrucci, who with his experience as a driver will add value to our team. We will have our eyes focused and we will give our all to have fun and bring home a good result. I want to thank all the sponsors, first and foremost Prometeon and Bosch, for their support in this great adventure”.
“We are thrilled to have brought Danilo Petrucci into this new adventure” said Roberto Righi, CEO of Prometeon. “Together with Claudio Bellina and Marco Arnoletti they form an extraordinary team that combines passion, talent and competence, essential qualities to face a difficult challenge like the Dakar, where the unexpected is always around the corner. In this type of competition, to excel, high-level performance, team spirit and technological innovation are necessary: values that Prometeon shares and fully supports”.
Arnoletti: “This will be my eighth Dakar, the second with Italtrans Racing Team. Last year was a wonderful experience, because with Claudio’s team I found everything an enthusiast could want: a professional team, excellent people, a super competitive vehicle, but above all a real family with whom I share a great passion for rallies. Claudio is an exceptional driver, who makes the difference, and this year Danilo will be with us: he is a unique driver, who has won in all the championships in which he has raced. Being part of this team is a source of great pride for me. I can’t wait to leave for this new great adventure”.
The collaboration between Italtrans and Prometeon aims to enhance the resistance of Prometeon tires, designed to withstand the most extreme conditions such as those offered by the Dakar. After the excellent performance of the last edition, which saw the Prometeon Serie 02 tires for the first time on Iveco Italtrans trucks, the mix of experience in competitions by Petrucci and Bellina represents a further step to further test the reliability and the already high performance of both these tires and the trucks on rough terrain such as those of the Dakar.
The next appointment with the Dakar Rally is for January 3, 2025 when the lights will go out in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, for the 47th edition of the toughest race in the world.
Garry McCoy won the 500cc GP at Valencia in 2000, riding for Bob MacLean's WCM Red Bull Yamaha team. He also won in Portugal and South Africa that year. Photo by Yves Jamotte/DPPI Media.
Robert John MacLean
2/18/1937-12/14/2024
Robert John MacLean (Bob), devoted husband, father, and educator passed away peacefully at his home in Wilson, Wyoming on December 14, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California to Robert John MacLean and Mary Witty MacLean. Bob led a life marked by deep commitment to education, sports, and community.
A graduate of Bronxville High School (Class of 1955), Bob earned a BA in English from Colby College in 1960. After Colby, Bob served three years in the United States Army National Guard. His love of teaching led him to a distinguished career as an educator, beginning with The Allen Stevenson School in New York City. He later joined Rye Country Day School, where he taught English, and spearheaded the construction and operation of the Gerald LaGrange Field House, an ice hockey rink and tennis complex. Bob was the head coach of the Varsity Hockey and Lacrosse teams and served as an assistant Varsity Football coach. In addition, he shared his love of hockey with the Wildcat Hockey Camp, which he founded and ran for multiple years. Bob’s dedication to the sport was further exemplified by his participation in the Master Coaches Clinic, with Fred Shero as headmaster. He served as Chairman of the Hockey Committee for the Hickory Hill Skating Rink in Katonah, NY. He was President of the Southern New England Interscholastic Ice Hockey Coaches Association and was a member of the American Hockey Coaches’ Association.
After many years of racing motorcycles himself, Bob founded World Championship Motorsports in 1991, of which he was the co-owner/ operator until 2005. WCM competed at the highest level of International Motorsports in the FIM Grand Prix Motorcycle series. His entrepreneurial spirit, like his commitment to education and athletics, was a testament to his talent as a leader.
Bob was deeply involved in the community, notably serving on the Board of South Kent School from 1990 to 1999, including as President from 1995 to 1999, where his leadership and generosity helped shape the school’s future. Bob was also an active board member of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary for over two decades and served on the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe.
In Wilson, Wyoming, Bob found peace and fulfillment in his love of fly fishing and spending time on his ranch. A supporter of local causes, he contributed to organizations such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the region.
Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Anna (Marna) MacLean. They raised three sons in Waccabuc, NY and later split their time between Lost Tree Village, Florida and their home in Wilson, Wyoming. Bob is also survived by his three sons, Chris MacLean (Cathryn Kishbaugh), Ian MacLean and Mark MacLean (Marsha Yamaykina) and his five grandchildren.
Bob’s love of life, his sense of humor, and positive outlook will be remembered by his friends and family.
Bob MacLean (right) and Peter Clifford in 1997; they started World Championship Motorsports (WCM) in 1992.
Bob MacLean at Daytona in 1987, when his team raced Hondas in AMA Formula 1. Photo by John Ulrich.
Bob MacLean (center) with Garry McCoy and Mick Doohan on a 500cc Grand Prix grid with mechanics in 2001.
Bob MacLean (center), rider Rich Schlachter and mechanic Donnie Dove with a TZ250 Yamaha at the 1981 British Grand Prix. Photo by Ian MacLean.Bob MacLean in retirement, at home in Wyoming in 2018.
Pedro Acosta's factory RC16 outside the KTM garage at the Barcelona post-season MotoGP test. Photo by Michael Gougis.
By Michael Gougis
While the long-term outlook for KTM is generally positive, the company will not participate in Grand Prix-level motorcycle road racing in 2026, saving an estimated $47.8 million per year, according to a report from one of Austria’s most prominent national newspapers.
The report, published by Der Standard, says that the company will not withdraw prior to 2026 because it fears “significant PR damage” if it withdraws from Grand Prix racing any earlier.
KTM is undergoing a financial restructuring, layoffs, and a production halt after incurring at least $1.87 billion in debt as well as accumulating excessive unsold inventory. A report from the agency representing the company’s creditors says the company “plans” to withdraw from “MotoGP Moto2/Moto3” racing. The Der Standard report quotes an internal document prepared by the Boston Consulting Group for the restructuring administrator; that document outlines the timeline for the departure and the expected annual savings.
The company spent approximately $208 million on R&D in 2023, with overall motorsports activity spending at approximately $98.8 million, a figure the restructuring administrator called “exceptionally high,” according to the Der Standard report.
Withdrawing at the end of 2025 may require the company to negotiate an end to several contracts. KTM’s 2024 announcement of the signing of Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini to the Tech3 squad, which is slated to have full factory equipment in 2025, said the pair was signed as part of a “multi-year agreement.” Brad Binder’s contract runs through 2026, according to the KTM press center, and the contract Pedro Acosta signed with the company in 2024 also is a “multi-year” agreement, according to KTM’s announcement of the deal. And KTM has a contract with MotoGP series organizer Dorna to put bikes on the grid.
Anticipated growth in the off-road market is expected to help pull KTM out of its current financial difficulties, the report indicates. That segment of the market is expected to grow 3.5 annually in the near future, and KTM’s share of that market hovers between 40 and 60%, the report indicates.
The next court hearing for KTM is set for January 24th.
What Is KTM?
The company at the center of the insolvency is KTM AG, according to a report issued by the agency representing creditors owed money. But it is part of a complex arrangement of companies and subsidiaries–the report says that KTM alone has more than 60 subsidiaries. A review of the company’s financial reports shows that most of these are distribution and supply entities that depend on KTM AG’s activities, and several of these are expected to go through insolvency proceedings as well.
KTM is one of five operating divisions of Pierer Mobility AG. Under the KTM umbrella is Husqvarna, GASGAS, and MV Agusta, although KTM’s 51% ownership stake in the Italian sportbike company is expected to be spun off as part of the restructuring. KTM also has an ownership interest in the Chinese manufacturer CFMOTO and its electric vehicle sub-brand Zeeho.
Pierer Mobility’s other divisions include the Husqvarna, GASGAS and Felt bicycle division; the design and R&D division, headed by Kiska, KTM F&E and Cero; an IT division that includes Pierer Innovation, Avocado, LX Media and KTM Informatics and “operate(s) within various technology fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Blockchain and Business Modeling,” according to the company website; and its Motorsport Factory Racing division.
Pierer Bajaj AG is the majority owner of Pierer Mobility. The Bajaj Group is a massive Indian conglomeration with interests in motorcycles, cars, home appliances, lighting, iron and steel, insurance, travel and finance, according to Wikipedia. The Bajaj family is worth $23.4 billion, according to Forbes.
Pierer Industrie AG is the majority owner of Pierer Bajaj. As of November, Pierer Industrie operated three major divisions, including Abatec, a technology/electronics company; Pierer Bajaj AG; and Pankl AG, which operates in the racing, automotive and aerospace industries.
Pierer Industrie AG corporate structure chart as of November 2024.
KTM’s Racing Plans For 2025:
KTM’s racing activities fall into four main categories: Road Racing, Motocross/Supercross, Enduro/Off Road and Rally.
For 2025, the company plans to field six riders in the Motocross World Championship (MXGP) series on KTM 450 SX-F and 250 SX-F machines. In North America, KTM is slated to field four riders in the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) series, which incorporates Supercross and Motocross events from January through the summer.
In the Enduro/Off Road category, KTM is slated to field eight factory riders in a variety of North American series. In addition, the company will field at least two factory riders in Europe, where the company’s factory racing teams compete in more than 100 enduro races each year.
In the Rally segment, KTM plans to field four riders for the Dakar rally.
In Grand Prix road racing, KTM has shelved its GASGAS and Husqvarna brands for 2025. The official provisional entry lists show two riders on the Red Bull KTM Ajo team and two on the CFMOTO Aspar team in Moto2; 16 riders on the company’s RC250GP machines in Moto3; and the two-rider factory Red Bull squad and the two-rider Tech3 team in MotoGP.
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