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N2 Track Days Sponsoring 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series

N2 Track Days to Title Sponsor the 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series.

Media, PA (April 2024) – N2 Track Days will be the title sponsor for the 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series providing the “Base Purse” for the series. WERA Motorcycle Roadracing will continue to sanction the series and provide race direction. Dunlop will continue to support the series as a contingency sponsor, on top of the “Base Purse” provided by N2. Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A. will continue as a series sponsor.

“Since reviving the national endurance series in 2017 we have seen tremendous growth year after year,” said N2 Director of Racing Chris Kubricky. “In 2017, we had 63 unique teams register to run our races. In 2023, we had 283 unique teams, and we expect to break that record in 2024. This incredible growth has been in large part due to our partners at Dunlop, and we are grateful that Dunlop will continue to support our teams with an amazing $50,000 contingency program.”

N2 is currently in negotiations with sponsors for individual round title sponsorships. N2 will be issuing a purse structure in the coming weeks. “When companies sponsor the N2 National Endurance Series, 100% of the sponsorship goes to the teams in the form of purse money and championship bonuses,” said N2 CEO James Curtis. “We will have a strong ‘Base Purse’ structure this year, and we are continuing our ‘Who Will Endure’ YouTube series with Coop DeVille Productions and commentary from World Superbike announcer Michael Hill at select rounds. We have an amazing group of teams and riders committed to the series, and we are excited to get the season started.”

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities with the N2 National Endurance Series, N2 Track Days, and N2 Racing in MotoAmerica, please reach out to Chip Spalding at [email protected].

About N2: N2 – Ride, Learn, Race.

Founded in 2014, N2’s mission is to build a sustainable motorcycle community through safe, structured motorcycle track days, advanced rider training programs based on Yamaha Champions Riding School teaching methods, with a strong affinity for motorcycle road racing. N2 successfully resurrected motorcycle endurance racing in America partnering with WERA Motorcycle Roadracing and creating the N2/WERA National Endurance Series by Dunlop. N2 is a premier participant in the MotoAmerica Pro racing series with a multi-rider team competing in several classes. N2 is also a major contributor to the Roadracing World Action Fund through fundraising efforts and support from its large member base.

The N2 National Endurance Series is proudly sponsored by: N2 Track Days, Yamaha Motor Corporation USA, Dainese, Woodcraft Technologies, BobbleHeadMoto, WERA Motorcycle Roadracing, KYT Helmets America, R.E.B Graphics, Millennium Technologies, Wiseco Pistons, JE Pistons, Rise Moto, Ghetto Customs, Pit-Lane Moto and Yamaha Champions Riding School.

 

For more information:
www.n2td.org

AHRMA Spotlighting 500 Premier Class In 2025 Vintage Cup

Bikes from the Golden Age of GP Racing Featured in 2025 AHRMA Vintage Cup

(April 3, 2024) A Golden Age of Grand Prix motorcycle racing is coming to tracks across the country during 2025.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association’s (AHRMA) 2025 Vintage Cup will highlight the 500 Premier class which was AHRMA’s first and undoubtedly the most historically significant post-war racing series.

Sponsored by Hagerty Insurance, Roadracingworld.com, and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), AHRMA’s 2025 Vintage Cup features the 500 Premier class which includes any fully kitted 500cc OHV/OHC or 750cc side-valve four-stroke machine built before December 31, 1968. 

“When the Vintage Cup concept was presented to me several years ago, the 500 Premier class was the first thing on my mind that we should feature as these motorcycles were the pinnacle of grand prix racing performance and the bikes nearest and dearest to my heart,” said Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton, 2025 Vintage Cup sponsor. 

“Many of these bikes have been put away for years, becoming ornaments in people’s homes and the whole intent of this class was to bring these bikes out of retirement to the national stage with heavy competition,” Cummings said.  “I couldn’t be happier to see these beautiful machines racing in anger at some of the greatest racetracks in the country.  NYC Norton has been a proud sponsor of this class for years and is happy that AHRMA is hosting it yet again, for the Vintage Cup. Let’s bring them out, people!”

Typical AHRMA 500 Premier grids include wide variety motorcycles from Norton Manx, Matchless G50, 500 Triton, Honda, Ducati, Gilero, MV Agusta, and more.

“For a lot of racers and race fans, when you ask them to imagine ‘vintage’ road racers, they think of 500cc bikes from the mid to late 60s,” said Greg Tomlinson, 2024 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.  “Unfortunately, those same bikes that stir the imagination aren’t seen or heard much anymore.  Fortunately, putting the 2025 Vintage Cup spotlight on them will bring them back to the track.”

“AHRMA continues to do its part providing a series for people to ride historic racebikes on the track, where they can be seen and heard in action. Roadracing World is happy to be involved with the Vintage Cup program in 2025. “Go out and have some fun on old bikes!” said John Ulrich, Founder & Editor of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine.

The Vintage Cup will be highlighted during and after each of the 2025 AHRMA National road races.  Added enhancements for the 2025 season include:

  • Enhanced trophies throughout the season.
  • Special awards for series champion.
  • Articles and photos on Roadracingworld.com to spotlight the class.
  • Roadracing World print magazine enhanced exposure for AHRMA and 500 Premier.
  • Discounted race entry fees.
  • Racer spotlight features in AHRMA MAG.
  • Class champion on cover of the AHRMA MAG.

Motorcycles eligible for AHRMA’s 500 Premier class must have been built before December 31, 1968, or be based on a like design and may have up to a 500cc air-cooled four-stroke engine with overhead valves and cams or a 750cc side-valve engine.  A list of eligible machines can be found in the AHRMA Handbook in Section 10.2.1 (www.ahrma.org/ahrma-handbook).

The first American to win a race at the Isle of Man TT, Dave Roper, who is also a multi-time AHRMA champion and frequent 500 Premier competitor, shared the following: “The 500cc class has been the premier class in World Championship road racing since at least the end of WWI to 2002 when the MotoGP four stroke era was introduced.  The Isle of Man TT established the 500cc limit for the Senior Class in 1912 and it continued until 1984.  Between the world wars, there was no formal World Championship and the European Championship was based on a single race which rotated from country to country.  Norton dominated in this period with riders Stanley Woods, Freddy Frith, Harold Daniel, ‘Crasher’ White, Wal Handley, and Jimmy Guthrie. Toward the end of this period, BMW and Gilera made inroads into Norton’s dominance. 

“After WWII and with the establishment of the World Championship in 1949, Britain continued to lead with the AJS Porcupine then the Norton Featherbed,” Roper continued. “But, then the Italians took over, first with Gilera and Geoff Duke, then with MV and John Surtees, Mike Hailwood, Giacomo Agostini, and Phil Reed.  In 1975, the two-strokes took over, first with Ago on the Yamaha, then the RG 500 Suzuki with Barry Sheene, back to Yamaha with Kenny Roberts, back to Suzuki with Lucchinelli and Uncini, then to Honda with Freddie Spencer and Yamaha with Eddie Lawson. In 1987, Wayne Gardner interrupted a string of American World Champions, with Lawson and Wayne Rainey and Kevin Schwantz following. Australian Mick Doohan followed with five successive World Championships for Honda, Criville giving Honda one more. Suzuki had one year with Kenny Roberts, Jr., then the Valentino Rossi period began on the 500cc two stroke Honda and making the transition into the MotoGP four-stroke era.

“500 Premier was one of AHRMA’s inaugural classes and the championship has been won mostly on Matchless G-50 and Norton Manx, but also with a 500 Triton, Honda 450 based machine, and even a 350 Aermacchi.”

 

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage machines 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.

 

Video: Harley-Davidson’s MotoAmerica Baggers Docuseries Returns

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES PUSH THE LIMIT: HARLEY-DAVIDSON RACING SEASON 2 DEBUT ON YOUTUBE 

Dramatic Six-Episode Docuseries Provides Behind-the-Scenes Perspective of the 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Race Season

MILWAUKEE (April 3, 2024) – Harley-Davidson® has today released a preview of Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2, a dramatic new docuseries on YouTube that follows the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team and other racers during the 2023 season of the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series. The adrenaline-fueled docuseries puts fans behind the scenes and right in the middle of the wheel-to-wheel action, showcasing the excitement of King Of The Baggers racing and providing a behind-the-scenes perspective of the immense effort these racers and teams make to achieve victory. The six-episode docuseries will be released episodically, with a new episode debuting each week, beginning Friday, April 5 at 10:00 a.m. CT on the Harley-Davidson App for members, followed by a YouTube release on Monday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2 follows select King Of The Baggers racers throughout the 2023 season, including the most successful racer in MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers history, Factory Harley-Davidson pilot Kyle Wyman. Wyman won seven races during the 2023 King Of The Baggers season and finished third in the season championship. Wyman has won 14 of 26 events since the start of the series in 2021 and earned the 2021 championship. King Of The Baggers 2023 and defending champion Hayden Gillim, and racers James Rispoli, Travis Wyman, Cory West, Jake Lewis, Patricia Fernandez-West, Frankie Garcia, and others also appear in the docuseries.

 

 

The MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 season was expanded to 18 races over nine double-header weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike Series. The season’s first races were held in Daytona the first weekend of March.

For the 2024 season, the Harley-Davidson® Factory Race Team is sponsored by Mission® Foods, Rockford Fosgate®, Brembo®, Öhlins®, Protolabs®, SYN3® lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts and Accessories.

 

2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Remaining Schedule

(Two races each weekend)

April 12-13: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas (Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas)

April 19-21: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Ga.

May 31-June 2: Road America – Elkhart Lake, Wis.

June 14-16: Brainerd International Raceway – Brainerd, Minn.

July 12-14: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – Monterey, Calif.

August 16-18: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – Lexington, Ohio

September 13-15: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas

September 27-29: New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, N.J.

Isle Of Man TT: Supersport Starting Numbers Announced

JORDAN FIRST AWAY IN MONSTER ENERGY SUPERSPORT RACES

With just over 50 days to go until the start of the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races the first set of start numbers have been released, with Jackson Racing’s Paul Jordan taking the number 1 plate for the first time in the opening Monster Energy Supersport Race.

It’s the first time the Northern Irishman has had the honour of carrying the number 1 plate, and he’ll be looking to continue his progression in the middleweight class having joined the renowned Jackson Racing team for 2024.

Hot on his heels will be double and reigning Privateers’ champion, Jamie Coward, who moves up to number 2 having started from two places lower twelve months ago. And, despite lapping at close to 128mph and securing a pair of top five positions in the Supersport category last year, Coward and the KTS team have opted to make the switch from Yamaha to Triumph power for 2024.

Following Coward will be fellow Yorkshireman, Dean Harrison. The third fastest rider in the class, it’s the first time since 2018 that Harrison hasn’t started second on the road so he’ll be hoping that change, along with the headline move to Honda Racing UK, will help him repeat his Supersport success of 2018.

TT returnee and 7-time Supersport race winner, Ian Hutchinson, reunites with the Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles team and assumes his favoured number 4 slot. James Hillier, a 5-time podium finisher in the class, is another to reunite with a former team and starts ten seconds later.

However, all eyes will doubtless be on Michael Dunlop who starts from his usual number 6 slot. After a phenomenal four victories in 2023, the opening Supersport Race will be his first opportunity to draw level with Joey Dunlop and the record tally of 26 TT wins. With 11 wins in the class including the last four to be held, the class lap record holder will undoubtedly be favourite for top honours.

Josh Brookes is back on the Supersport entry for the first time since 2018 with the Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing Yamaha and must be considered a threat from number 7. The same applies to the next starter, Davey Todd, who will provide a thunderous soundtrack to proceedings on the Powertoolmate Ducati Panigale V2.

Craig Neve’s strong performances of 2023 have been rewarded with his first ever top-10 position, with the Bathams Racing rider starting at number 9 on a Triumph 765 RS identical in spec to that of the rider starting ten seconds behind him – Peter Hickman.

Next to go at 11 and 12 will be Conor Cummins (Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles – Honda) and David Johnson (Platinum Club Racing – Kawasaki) with 2019 winner Lee Johnston reverting to his usual number 13 – the Ashcourt Racing rider another to switch to Triumph.

Mike Browne follows Johnston on the second Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing Yamaha, with Rob Hodson (SMT Racing – Yamaha) and Dominic Herbertson (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing – Yamaha) next to go at numbers 15 and 16 respectively.

Former Supersport Race winner Gary Johnson (NL Motorcycle/Astro Van Centre – Suzuki) starts at number 17 with Shaun Anderson (Butterfields of Skipton – Suzuki), James Hind (North Lincs Components – Suzuki) and Manxman Michael Evans (Smith Racing – Triumph) completing the top twenty. All three riders are seeded once again with Hind, riding a Suzuki GSX-R750 prepared by fan favourite Guy Martin, one to watch having taken a sixth-place finish in 2023.

The complete top 20 for the two 4-lap Monster Energy Supersport Races at the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races is:

  1. Paul Jordan – 600 Honda, Jackson Racing
  2. Jamie Coward – 765 Triumph, KTS Racing powered by Stanley Stewart Racing
  3. Dean Harrison – 600 Honda, Honda Racing UK
  4. Ian Hutchinson – 600 Honda, Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles
  5. James Hillier – 600 Kawasaki, Bournemouth Kawasaki Racing
  6. Michael Dunlop – 600 Yamaha, MD Racing
  7. Josh Brookes – 600 Yamaha, Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing
  8. Davey Todd – 955 Ducati, Powertoolmate Ducati
  9. Craig Neve – 765 Triumph, Bathams Racing
  10. Peter Hickman – 765 Triumph, K2 Trooper Triumph by PHR
  11. Conor Cummins – 600 Honda, Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles
  12. David Johnson – 600 Kawasaki, Platinum Club Racing Kawasaki
  13. Lee Johnston – 765 Triumph, Ashcourt Racing
  14. Mike Browne – 600 Yamaha, Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing
  15. Rob Hodson – 600 Yamaha, SMT/Vehicle Recovery Services
  16. Dom Herbertson – 600 Yamaha, Burrows Engineering by RK Racing
  17. Gary Johnson – 750 Suzuki, NL Motorcycles/Astro Van Centre
  18. Shaun Anderson – 750 Suzuki, Butterfields of Skipton with ARD
  19. James Hind – 750 Suzuki, North Lincs Components
  20. Michael Evans – 765 Triumph, Smith Racing

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: MotoGP – No Need For Introductions

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

This podcast is “MotoGP – No Need For Introductions.”

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

 

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

No new race this week, but we’ve got plenty to talk about as we gear up for Portugal.  Mat says his goodbyes to the late Gary Taylor, former Suzuki team manager, and Peter explains why not all lessons learned at Qatar are applicable to the rest of the season.

That said, one thing that probably will carry over to the next race are the ambitions of Pedro Acosta. Last week, he aimed to make an impression. Well Pedro, the good news is you succeeded; the bad news is that Mat and Peter now have high expectations. Good luck!
Oh, and stay tuned for a chat about chattering, and a whole bunch of other topics. Cheers!

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

Roadracing World Young Guns 2024: Chase Black

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 28th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 13 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2024 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

The entire Roadracing World Young Guns, Class of 2024 is featured in the April 2024 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine.

 

Chase Black. Photo courtesy Leslie Black.
Chase Black. Photo courtesy Leslie Black.

 

Chase Black

Age: 17.

Current home:  Round Rock, Texas.

Current height/weight:  5’10″/150 pounds.

Current school grade level: 11th grade.

Began riding at age: 2.5 years.

First road race: 2017, Katy, Texas, Texas Mini Grand Prix, 12 & Under, 3rd place.

Current racebike: Ducati Panigale V2.

Current tuners/mechanics: Josh Newby, Jordan Rhodes, Dennis Black (father), Glenn Miller.

Primary race series: MotoAmerica Supersport.

Top sponsors: International Power Services, International Turbine Services, Superbike Unlimited, Ducati Austin, The Cup Cake Guys, Michael Griffin, Spears Racing, RideSmart, RideNow PowerSports, Evol Technology, Oilcheck Racing, Drippin’ Wet, Bison, Arai Americas, Actions on Purpose, GoPro, Ogio.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2023 season, placed 15th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (2 top-five finishes), 2 race wins with CMRA; 2022 season, placed 9th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (12 top-10 finishes, best race finish was 5th); 2021 season, placed 15th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (4 top-10 finishes, best race result was 8th), finished 2nd in CMRA 500 GP Expert Championship (3 wins); 2020 season, 11 CMRA Novice race wins, 2 Texas Mini Grand Prix (TMGP) race wins; 2019 season, won CMRA F5 and F6 Championships (10 wins), won 10 TMGP Championships (30 wins), won 2 American Super Mini GP Championships (2 wins); 2018 season, finished 5th in Ohvale Talent Cup Championship.

2024 racing goal: Finish in top 10 consistently in MotoAmerica Supersport.

Racing career goals: Compete in Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and Moto3 World Championship.

Racing hero: Dennis Black (father).

Favorite track: VIR.

Favorite hobbies: Riding motocross, e-racing, bowling.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Bowling.

MotoAmerica: Brother-And-Sister Team Contesting Junior Cup Championship

Fernandez Racing Siblings Gear Up for 2024 MotoAmerica Junior Cup

Fernandez Racing is more than a team—it’s a passion. Founded by their parents, Alan and Carolyn Fernandez in 2019, the team embodies passion, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

“Racing is in our blood,” team owner Alan Fernandez reflects on his racing experience as he sees the same passion for racing in his children.

Jayden and Juliana Fernandez carry the torch forward, racing not only for themselves but for the love of family and the thrill of the track.

Title sponsor Inspection Specialties owner Mike Rinow states, “This will be an exciting year for the team, and I am excited to see Jayden and Juliana ride on the track together. Jayden has been focused and training hard this year, and Juliana I believe is going to do great!”

The sibling riders raced together in the 2020 and 2021 MotoAmerica Mini Cup series, and Jayden raced in the 2022 MotoAmerica North America Talent Cup. The dynamic brother-and-sister duo is set to ignite the racetracks once again in the 2024 MotoAmerica Junior Cup. With a shared passion for speed, adrenaline, and family camaraderie, Jayden and Juliana confident to leave their tire marks on the track.

 

Jayden Fernandez (13). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.
Jayden Fernandez (13). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.

 

Jayden Fernandez, the seasoned 16-year-old rider, returns to the MotoAmerica Junior Cup after an impressive sixth-place Championship finish last year. His Kawasaki Ninja 400 sped across the finish line, securing two podiums late in the season last year and earning the respect of fellow competitors and spectators. Jayden’s determination and strategic skill promise an exciting season ahead.

“I am looking forward to another great year riding in the Junior Cup series, and I am excited to fight for the top spot of the box!” says Jayden.

Last year’s close calls fuel his hunger for the podium’s top step. Armed with experience and a finely tuned Kawasaki, he aims to outpace his rivals and rewrite his story this year.

 

Juliana Fernandez (19). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.
Juliana Fernandez (19). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.

 

Juliana Fernandez, at just 14 years old, steps into the spotlight as the team’s rookie sensation this year after winning two championships last year with MRA. Her initial journey in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup is a testament to her raw talent and relentless drive in the sport. She’s ready to carve her own path on the asphalt and make a name for herself and for the team. Juliana’s debut this year is a symphony of nerves and excitement.

“I am excited to ride on new tracks this year and learn more about them. I am also excited to see my race friends again and ride alongside them,” states Juliana.

As one of the youngest riders on the grid, she embraces the challenge.

The 2024 season promises heart-pounding action, and Fernandez Racing is primed for battle.

“We still have a lot of work to do but the kids have been putting in laps. We’ve been testing bikes and working hard to kick start the season right. We have high expectations going into the season, and I believe we put together a winning package this year,” says Alan.

The MotoAmerica Junior Cup schedule features six rounds, each a crucible of skill, strategy, and adrenaline. From New Jersey Motorsports Park to the legendary Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, the Fernandez siblings will chase victory lap after lap.

Follow Fernandez Racing on social media as they share behind-the-scenes glimpses, heart-stopping race moments, and the unbreakable bond that fuels their quest. Witness the sibling synergy, the roar of engines, and the taste of victory.

For more information about the series or team visit: www.motoamerica.com or www.fernandez-racing.com

FIM Issues Statement On Liberty Media’s Purchase Of Dorna

FIM Statement re: Acquisition of Dorna Sports S.L. by Liberty Media Corporation

Following the recent public announcement regarding the acquisition of Dorna Sports S.L. by Liberty Media Corporation, the FIM welcomes this agreement.

The FIM is the owner of the following championships and has entered into agreements with Dorna Sports S.L. for the promotion of:

•    The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship since 1992;

•    The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship since 2015;

•    The FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship since 2016;

•    The FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship since 2019 and

•    The FIM Women Circuit Racing World Championship since 2023.

The FIM is convinced that these World Championships will benefit from the strength and broadcast quality of Liberty Media Corporation and congratulates Greg Maffei and his team on these additions to their portfolio, which will undoubtedly help grow the sport for fans, teams, commercial partners and all related stakeholders.

The FIM is delighted to continue its excellent relationship with Dorna Sports S.L., especially with Carmelo Ezpeleta and his management team, and look forward to working together towards the growth of this exciting sport.

Aprilia Does Long-Term Partnership With RideSmart Motorcycle School

APRILIA USA AND RIDESMART MOTORCYCLE SCHOOL ENTER PARTNERSHIP, PAVING NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RIDERS TO TAKE THEIR RIDING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

EXPANDING THE ON-TRACK REPUTATION BOTH PARTNERS ARE WELL-KNOWN FOR, THIS PARTNERSHIP WILL ACCOMMODATE FLY-N-RIDE PACKAGES, ADVANCED COACHING ACTIVITY, AND A RANGE OF THE MOST CAPABLE APRILIA MACHINERY FOR THE MOST DEMANDING ENTHUSIASTS

A RACE PROGRAM WILL COMPLETE THE ATTRACTIVE OFFERING ALREADY AVAILABLE FROM RIDESMART MOTORCYCLE SCHOOL, ACCELERATING RIDER SKILLS AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS TO GROW COMPETITION WHILE REDUCING BARRIERS FOR ENTRY

NEW YORK, NY – 2 APRIL 2024 – Aprilia USA announces a new partnership with Texas-based, RideSmart Motorcycle School. The collaboration expands upon the already celebrated Aprilia Racers Days track day program, to add additional touch points with a dedicated motorcycle school and track day provider, giving thousands of riders the chance to attend one of many calendar events with RideSmart Motorcycle School over the next four years. As a result of this collaboration, riders can work to improve their riding skills in a track environment, which can be translated into better precision and speed on track, and safety on the road, and even elevate their commitment through a dedicated race program.

With this partnership, RideSmart Motorcycle School events will have a range of Aprilia sport motorcycles available as rentals, enhancing the already premium offering. RideSmart Motorcycle School’s track day programming provides the ultimate experience, combining safety, education, and on-track riding.

In addition to model availability, one of the most exciting aspects of is the introduction of the “Fly-N-Ride” program, where participants from anywhere in the world can now experience riding class-leading motorcycles on a world-class circuit, like Circuit of The Americas. Limited to availability, and select dates, this program opens the world of road racing and track riding to enthusiasts all over the globe, with the dream of riding where their favorite racers have competed.

“Our partnership with Aprilia reinforces RideSmart Motorcycle School’s commitment to shaping the future of motorcycling, not just with events and coaching opportunities, but also racing in the United States,” says Dave Johnson, Owner and Operator of RideSmart Motorcycle School. “Together, we pave the way for aspiring riders to develop their skills in a safe and exhilarating environment, fueling a passion for excellence, while fostering a community of talented riders and racers.”

The partnership between Aprilia and RideSmart Motorcycle School represents a significant step forward in providing motorcycle enthusiasts with exclusive access to premium riding experiences. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as Aprilia and RideSmart embark on this exciting journey together.

 

 

 

More, from RideSmart Motorcycle School:

RideSmart Race Program – Faster by Facts
 

What is RideSmart Race Program (RSRP)?

Our new Aprilia partnership has allowed us to equip a fleet of RS660s at a MotoAmerica level with the latest AIM SOLO data logging software, nose camera, and even including Insta360 cameras. 

This is a 2-day camp we developed with current MotoAmerica Superbike Data Engineers and Racers. You will be joined on track with a coach and other riders on the exact same machinery. This allows us to compare your data against local top racers and up to MotoAmerica pros. Data logging information is a huge tool in professional racing community, and we are bringing that to every rider that wants to reach the peak of riding ability. 

RSRP is meant for the avid track rider up to the highly skilled racer wanting to reach the pinnacle of their riding ability. RSRP is a truly personalized training curriculum for riders to advance their riding and technical skills. This 2-day program offers data driven coaching by experts working and riding at the highest levels including MotoAmerica Superbike. 

Your track-ready Aprilia RS660 will be equipped with AIM Data Loggers and AIM SmartyCams recording your riding inputs hundreds of times per second. This data allows the RSRP Data Engineers and Coaches to immediately identify where to focus efforts by comparing your data to that of expert riders and the Superbike Pros, in a first of it’s kind 1:1 comparison.

 

Why the Aprilia RS660?
 

Having notched up 54 world titles to date over a career that only began in 1992, Aprilia is one of the most successful brands in the history of motorcycle racing and with a constant, daily focus on results, Aprilia Racing is committed to taking on new, increasingly ambitious challenges. With its sporty personality and stunning contemporary lines, the RS 660 brings the winning Aprilia track experience to every rider. Delivering stability at high speeds, it is all about creating a fun, pleasurable riding experience.

 

Aprilia and RideSmart – Together

With RideSmart’s 20+ years of helping riders become better and safer riders, and Aprilia’s expertise of building championship winning motorcycles, our goal is to bring the absolute best top-tier motorcycle training program available. Stay tuned for more information and dates.

 

Fastrack Riders Hosting Track Day April 20 At Willow Springs

Willow Springs on Saturday April 20th

Prepare to throttle up and mark your calendars! Fastrack Riders is excited to announce our upcoming event at the legendary, fastest track on the west, Willow Springs International Raceway. Get ready for a day of heart-pounding speed, precision riding, and the camaraderie of fellow motorcycle aficionados.

 

Date to Remember:

This is your call to the track, an invitation to challenge yourself, improve your skills, and experience the sheer joy of riding on April 20th at one of the fastest and most renowned circuits in the motorsport world. 

 

Special Focus: Small Group Sizes & Optional Coaching:

We’re dedicated to providing an unparalleled experience with 8x 20 minutes sessions throughout the day, featuring small groups averaging 20 riders each. This ensures ample track time, space, and a focused environment where every rider can push their limits with confidence. 

Elevate your track day with OPTIONAL coaching. Our skilled instructors are at your disposal, offering personalized advice and techniques to help you conquer the track like never before. Whether it’s perfecting your line, braking later, or getting on the throttle sooner, our team is here to guide you. 

 

Early Bird Special – Act Fast!

Speed into savings with our Early Bird Special. Register by April 7th to secure your spot for [a reduced price]. Wait, and the price accelerates to [a higher price]. Don’t let this opportunity zoom past!  

 

Event Highlights:

– Location: Willow Springs International Raceway

– Date: Apr 20

– Sessions (20 minutes): 8 per group, focusing on quality track time

– Group Size: Limited to 20 riders for personalized attention

– Coaching: Available to fine-tune your skills (optional and included in the price)

 

Secure Your Spot:

Spaces are racing off the grid! To register, visit our website at www.FastrackRiders.com and ensure your place at the starting line. Remember, the early registered rider gets the savings, so don’t delay.

We’re gearing up for an unforgettable day at Willow Springs, filled with the thrill of competition, the joy of improvement, and the memorable experience of riding with Fastrack Riders.

Rev up your engines, and let’s hit the track together! 

Ride Safe,

The FastTrack Riders Team

“Rewiring riders to ride Faster, Safer, Smarter”    

 

Stay Connected!

For more details and to register for the event, please visit our website or contact us directly. Follow us on social media to stay updated on future events, tips, and much more. 
 
 

REGISTER NOW

N2 Track Days Sponsoring 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series

The start of a N2/WERA National Endurance race in 2023. Photo by Highside Photography, courtesy N2.
The start of a N2/WERA National Endurance race in 2023. Photo by Highside Photography, courtesy N2 Track Days.

N2 Track Days to Title Sponsor the 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series.

Media, PA (April 2024) – N2 Track Days will be the title sponsor for the 2024 N2/WERA National Endurance Series providing the “Base Purse” for the series. WERA Motorcycle Roadracing will continue to sanction the series and provide race direction. Dunlop will continue to support the series as a contingency sponsor, on top of the “Base Purse” provided by N2. Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A. will continue as a series sponsor.

“Since reviving the national endurance series in 2017 we have seen tremendous growth year after year,” said N2 Director of Racing Chris Kubricky. “In 2017, we had 63 unique teams register to run our races. In 2023, we had 283 unique teams, and we expect to break that record in 2024. This incredible growth has been in large part due to our partners at Dunlop, and we are grateful that Dunlop will continue to support our teams with an amazing $50,000 contingency program.”

N2 is currently in negotiations with sponsors for individual round title sponsorships. N2 will be issuing a purse structure in the coming weeks. “When companies sponsor the N2 National Endurance Series, 100% of the sponsorship goes to the teams in the form of purse money and championship bonuses,” said N2 CEO James Curtis. “We will have a strong ‘Base Purse’ structure this year, and we are continuing our ‘Who Will Endure’ YouTube series with Coop DeVille Productions and commentary from World Superbike announcer Michael Hill at select rounds. We have an amazing group of teams and riders committed to the series, and we are excited to get the season started.”

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities with the N2 National Endurance Series, N2 Track Days, and N2 Racing in MotoAmerica, please reach out to Chip Spalding at [email protected].

About N2: N2 – Ride, Learn, Race.

Founded in 2014, N2’s mission is to build a sustainable motorcycle community through safe, structured motorcycle track days, advanced rider training programs based on Yamaha Champions Riding School teaching methods, with a strong affinity for motorcycle road racing. N2 successfully resurrected motorcycle endurance racing in America partnering with WERA Motorcycle Roadracing and creating the N2/WERA National Endurance Series by Dunlop. N2 is a premier participant in the MotoAmerica Pro racing series with a multi-rider team competing in several classes. N2 is also a major contributor to the Roadracing World Action Fund through fundraising efforts and support from its large member base.

The N2 National Endurance Series is proudly sponsored by: N2 Track Days, Yamaha Motor Corporation USA, Dainese, Woodcraft Technologies, BobbleHeadMoto, WERA Motorcycle Roadracing, KYT Helmets America, R.E.B Graphics, Millennium Technologies, Wiseco Pistons, JE Pistons, Rise Moto, Ghetto Customs, Pit-Lane Moto and Yamaha Champions Riding School.

 

For more information:
www.n2td.org

AHRMA Spotlighting 500 Premier Class In 2025 Vintage Cup

AHRMA racers Tony Read (176), Andrew Mauk (95), and Tim Joyce (309). Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA racers Tony Read (176), Andrew Mauk (X95), and Tim Joyce (309). Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.

Bikes from the Golden Age of GP Racing Featured in 2025 AHRMA Vintage Cup

(April 3, 2024) A Golden Age of Grand Prix motorcycle racing is coming to tracks across the country during 2025.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association’s (AHRMA) 2025 Vintage Cup will highlight the 500 Premier class which was AHRMA’s first and undoubtedly the most historically significant post-war racing series.

Sponsored by Hagerty Insurance, Roadracingworld.com, and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), AHRMA’s 2025 Vintage Cup features the 500 Premier class which includes any fully kitted 500cc OHV/OHC or 750cc side-valve four-stroke machine built before December 31, 1968. 

“When the Vintage Cup concept was presented to me several years ago, the 500 Premier class was the first thing on my mind that we should feature as these motorcycles were the pinnacle of grand prix racing performance and the bikes nearest and dearest to my heart,” said Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton, 2025 Vintage Cup sponsor. 

“Many of these bikes have been put away for years, becoming ornaments in people’s homes and the whole intent of this class was to bring these bikes out of retirement to the national stage with heavy competition,” Cummings said.  “I couldn’t be happier to see these beautiful machines racing in anger at some of the greatest racetracks in the country.  NYC Norton has been a proud sponsor of this class for years and is happy that AHRMA is hosting it yet again, for the Vintage Cup. Let’s bring them out, people!”

Typical AHRMA 500 Premier grids include wide variety motorcycles from Norton Manx, Matchless G50, 500 Triton, Honda, Ducati, Gilero, MV Agusta, and more.

“For a lot of racers and race fans, when you ask them to imagine ‘vintage’ road racers, they think of 500cc bikes from the mid to late 60s,” said Greg Tomlinson, 2024 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.  “Unfortunately, those same bikes that stir the imagination aren’t seen or heard much anymore.  Fortunately, putting the 2025 Vintage Cup spotlight on them will bring them back to the track.”

“AHRMA continues to do its part providing a series for people to ride historic racebikes on the track, where they can be seen and heard in action. Roadracing World is happy to be involved with the Vintage Cup program in 2025. “Go out and have some fun on old bikes!” said John Ulrich, Founder & Editor of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine.

The Vintage Cup will be highlighted during and after each of the 2025 AHRMA National road races.  Added enhancements for the 2025 season include:

  • Enhanced trophies throughout the season.
  • Special awards for series champion.
  • Articles and photos on Roadracingworld.com to spotlight the class.
  • Roadracing World print magazine enhanced exposure for AHRMA and 500 Premier.
  • Discounted race entry fees.
  • Racer spotlight features in AHRMA MAG.
  • Class champion on cover of the AHRMA MAG.

Motorcycles eligible for AHRMA’s 500 Premier class must have been built before December 31, 1968, or be based on a like design and may have up to a 500cc air-cooled four-stroke engine with overhead valves and cams or a 750cc side-valve engine.  A list of eligible machines can be found in the AHRMA Handbook in Section 10.2.1 (www.ahrma.org/ahrma-handbook).

The first American to win a race at the Isle of Man TT, Dave Roper, who is also a multi-time AHRMA champion and frequent 500 Premier competitor, shared the following: “The 500cc class has been the premier class in World Championship road racing since at least the end of WWI to 2002 when the MotoGP four stroke era was introduced.  The Isle of Man TT established the 500cc limit for the Senior Class in 1912 and it continued until 1984.  Between the world wars, there was no formal World Championship and the European Championship was based on a single race which rotated from country to country.  Norton dominated in this period with riders Stanley Woods, Freddy Frith, Harold Daniel, ‘Crasher’ White, Wal Handley, and Jimmy Guthrie. Toward the end of this period, BMW and Gilera made inroads into Norton’s dominance. 

“After WWII and with the establishment of the World Championship in 1949, Britain continued to lead with the AJS Porcupine then the Norton Featherbed,” Roper continued. “But, then the Italians took over, first with Gilera and Geoff Duke, then with MV and John Surtees, Mike Hailwood, Giacomo Agostini, and Phil Reed.  In 1975, the two-strokes took over, first with Ago on the Yamaha, then the RG 500 Suzuki with Barry Sheene, back to Yamaha with Kenny Roberts, back to Suzuki with Lucchinelli and Uncini, then to Honda with Freddie Spencer and Yamaha with Eddie Lawson. In 1987, Wayne Gardner interrupted a string of American World Champions, with Lawson and Wayne Rainey and Kevin Schwantz following. Australian Mick Doohan followed with five successive World Championships for Honda, Criville giving Honda one more. Suzuki had one year with Kenny Roberts, Jr., then the Valentino Rossi period began on the 500cc two stroke Honda and making the transition into the MotoGP four-stroke era.

“500 Premier was one of AHRMA’s inaugural classes and the championship has been won mostly on Matchless G-50 and Norton Manx, but also with a 500 Triton, Honda 450 based machine, and even a 350 Aermacchi.”

 

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage machines 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.

 

Video: Harley-Davidson’s MotoAmerica Baggers Docuseries Returns

A round has been added to the 2023 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Championship and that round is at Circuit of The Americas in conjunction with the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas. Kyle Wyman (33) is shown on his Screamin' Eagle Harley-Davidson Road Glide at COTA in 2023. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Kyle Wyman (33) as seen on his Harley-Davidson Road Glide at COTA in 2023. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES PUSH THE LIMIT: HARLEY-DAVIDSON RACING SEASON 2 DEBUT ON YOUTUBE 

Dramatic Six-Episode Docuseries Provides Behind-the-Scenes Perspective of the 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Race Season

MILWAUKEE (April 3, 2024) – Harley-Davidson® has today released a preview of Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2, a dramatic new docuseries on YouTube that follows the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team and other racers during the 2023 season of the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series. The adrenaline-fueled docuseries puts fans behind the scenes and right in the middle of the wheel-to-wheel action, showcasing the excitement of King Of The Baggers racing and providing a behind-the-scenes perspective of the immense effort these racers and teams make to achieve victory. The six-episode docuseries will be released episodically, with a new episode debuting each week, beginning Friday, April 5 at 10:00 a.m. CT on the Harley-Davidson App for members, followed by a YouTube release on Monday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2 follows select King Of The Baggers racers throughout the 2023 season, including the most successful racer in MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers history, Factory Harley-Davidson pilot Kyle Wyman. Wyman won seven races during the 2023 King Of The Baggers season and finished third in the season championship. Wyman has won 14 of 26 events since the start of the series in 2021 and earned the 2021 championship. King Of The Baggers 2023 and defending champion Hayden Gillim, and racers James Rispoli, Travis Wyman, Cory West, Jake Lewis, Patricia Fernandez-West, Frankie Garcia, and others also appear in the docuseries.

 

 

The MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 season was expanded to 18 races over nine double-header weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike Series. The season’s first races were held in Daytona the first weekend of March.

For the 2024 season, the Harley-Davidson® Factory Race Team is sponsored by Mission® Foods, Rockford Fosgate®, Brembo®, Öhlins®, Protolabs®, SYN3® lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts and Accessories.

 

2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Remaining Schedule

(Two races each weekend)

April 12-13: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas (Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas)

April 19-21: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Ga.

May 31-June 2: Road America – Elkhart Lake, Wis.

June 14-16: Brainerd International Raceway – Brainerd, Minn.

July 12-14: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – Monterey, Calif.

August 16-18: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – Lexington, Ohio

September 13-15: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas

September 27-29: New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, N.J.

Isle Of Man TT: Supersport Starting Numbers Announced

Michael Dunlop launching his Supersport bike at the 2023 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.
Michael Dunlop launching his Supersport bike at the 2023 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.

JORDAN FIRST AWAY IN MONSTER ENERGY SUPERSPORT RACES

With just over 50 days to go until the start of the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races the first set of start numbers have been released, with Jackson Racing’s Paul Jordan taking the number 1 plate for the first time in the opening Monster Energy Supersport Race.

It’s the first time the Northern Irishman has had the honour of carrying the number 1 plate, and he’ll be looking to continue his progression in the middleweight class having joined the renowned Jackson Racing team for 2024.

Hot on his heels will be double and reigning Privateers’ champion, Jamie Coward, who moves up to number 2 having started from two places lower twelve months ago. And, despite lapping at close to 128mph and securing a pair of top five positions in the Supersport category last year, Coward and the KTS team have opted to make the switch from Yamaha to Triumph power for 2024.

Following Coward will be fellow Yorkshireman, Dean Harrison. The third fastest rider in the class, it’s the first time since 2018 that Harrison hasn’t started second on the road so he’ll be hoping that change, along with the headline move to Honda Racing UK, will help him repeat his Supersport success of 2018.

TT returnee and 7-time Supersport race winner, Ian Hutchinson, reunites with the Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles team and assumes his favoured number 4 slot. James Hillier, a 5-time podium finisher in the class, is another to reunite with a former team and starts ten seconds later.

However, all eyes will doubtless be on Michael Dunlop who starts from his usual number 6 slot. After a phenomenal four victories in 2023, the opening Supersport Race will be his first opportunity to draw level with Joey Dunlop and the record tally of 26 TT wins. With 11 wins in the class including the last four to be held, the class lap record holder will undoubtedly be favourite for top honours.

Josh Brookes is back on the Supersport entry for the first time since 2018 with the Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing Yamaha and must be considered a threat from number 7. The same applies to the next starter, Davey Todd, who will provide a thunderous soundtrack to proceedings on the Powertoolmate Ducati Panigale V2.

Craig Neve’s strong performances of 2023 have been rewarded with his first ever top-10 position, with the Bathams Racing rider starting at number 9 on a Triumph 765 RS identical in spec to that of the rider starting ten seconds behind him – Peter Hickman.

Next to go at 11 and 12 will be Conor Cummins (Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles – Honda) and David Johnson (Platinum Club Racing – Kawasaki) with 2019 winner Lee Johnston reverting to his usual number 13 – the Ashcourt Racing rider another to switch to Triumph.

Mike Browne follows Johnston on the second Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing Yamaha, with Rob Hodson (SMT Racing – Yamaha) and Dominic Herbertson (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing – Yamaha) next to go at numbers 15 and 16 respectively.

Former Supersport Race winner Gary Johnson (NL Motorcycle/Astro Van Centre – Suzuki) starts at number 17 with Shaun Anderson (Butterfields of Skipton – Suzuki), James Hind (North Lincs Components – Suzuki) and Manxman Michael Evans (Smith Racing – Triumph) completing the top twenty. All three riders are seeded once again with Hind, riding a Suzuki GSX-R750 prepared by fan favourite Guy Martin, one to watch having taken a sixth-place finish in 2023.

The complete top 20 for the two 4-lap Monster Energy Supersport Races at the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races is:

  1. Paul Jordan – 600 Honda, Jackson Racing
  2. Jamie Coward – 765 Triumph, KTS Racing powered by Stanley Stewart Racing
  3. Dean Harrison – 600 Honda, Honda Racing UK
  4. Ian Hutchinson – 600 Honda, Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles
  5. James Hillier – 600 Kawasaki, Bournemouth Kawasaki Racing
  6. Michael Dunlop – 600 Yamaha, MD Racing
  7. Josh Brookes – 600 Yamaha, Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing
  8. Davey Todd – 955 Ducati, Powertoolmate Ducati
  9. Craig Neve – 765 Triumph, Bathams Racing
  10. Peter Hickman – 765 Triumph, K2 Trooper Triumph by PHR
  11. Conor Cummins – 600 Honda, Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles
  12. David Johnson – 600 Kawasaki, Platinum Club Racing Kawasaki
  13. Lee Johnston – 765 Triumph, Ashcourt Racing
  14. Mike Browne – 600 Yamaha, Boyce Precision Engineering by Russell Racing
  15. Rob Hodson – 600 Yamaha, SMT/Vehicle Recovery Services
  16. Dom Herbertson – 600 Yamaha, Burrows Engineering by RK Racing
  17. Gary Johnson – 750 Suzuki, NL Motorcycles/Astro Van Centre
  18. Shaun Anderson – 750 Suzuki, Butterfields of Skipton with ARD
  19. James Hind – 750 Suzuki, North Lincs Components
  20. Michael Evans – 765 Triumph, Smith Racing

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: MotoGP – No Need For Introductions

Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.

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

This podcast is “MotoGP – No Need For Introductions.”

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

 

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

No new race this week, but we’ve got plenty to talk about as we gear up for Portugal.  Mat says his goodbyes to the late Gary Taylor, former Suzuki team manager, and Peter explains why not all lessons learned at Qatar are applicable to the rest of the season.

That said, one thing that probably will carry over to the next race are the ambitions of Pedro Acosta. Last week, he aimed to make an impression. Well Pedro, the good news is you succeeded; the bad news is that Mat and Peter now have high expectations. Good luck!
Oh, and stay tuned for a chat about chattering, and a whole bunch of other topics. Cheers!

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

Roadracing World Young Guns 2024: Chase Black

Chase Black (14). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Chase Black (14). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 28th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 13 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2024 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

The entire Roadracing World Young Guns, Class of 2024 is featured in the April 2024 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine.

 

Chase Black. Photo courtesy Leslie Black.
Chase Black. Photo courtesy Leslie Black.

 

Chase Black

Age: 17.

Current home:  Round Rock, Texas.

Current height/weight:  5’10″/150 pounds.

Current school grade level: 11th grade.

Began riding at age: 2.5 years.

First road race: 2017, Katy, Texas, Texas Mini Grand Prix, 12 & Under, 3rd place.

Current racebike: Ducati Panigale V2.

Current tuners/mechanics: Josh Newby, Jordan Rhodes, Dennis Black (father), Glenn Miller.

Primary race series: MotoAmerica Supersport.

Top sponsors: International Power Services, International Turbine Services, Superbike Unlimited, Ducati Austin, The Cup Cake Guys, Michael Griffin, Spears Racing, RideSmart, RideNow PowerSports, Evol Technology, Oilcheck Racing, Drippin’ Wet, Bison, Arai Americas, Actions on Purpose, GoPro, Ogio.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2023 season, placed 15th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (2 top-five finishes), 2 race wins with CMRA; 2022 season, placed 9th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (12 top-10 finishes, best race finish was 5th); 2021 season, placed 15th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (4 top-10 finishes, best race result was 8th), finished 2nd in CMRA 500 GP Expert Championship (3 wins); 2020 season, 11 CMRA Novice race wins, 2 Texas Mini Grand Prix (TMGP) race wins; 2019 season, won CMRA F5 and F6 Championships (10 wins), won 10 TMGP Championships (30 wins), won 2 American Super Mini GP Championships (2 wins); 2018 season, finished 5th in Ohvale Talent Cup Championship.

2024 racing goal: Finish in top 10 consistently in MotoAmerica Supersport.

Racing career goals: Compete in Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and Moto3 World Championship.

Racing hero: Dennis Black (father).

Favorite track: VIR.

Favorite hobbies: Riding motocross, e-racing, bowling.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Bowling.

MotoAmerica: Brother-And-Sister Team Contesting Junior Cup Championship

(From left) Fernandez Racing's Jayden, Carolyn, Alan, and Juliana Fernandez. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.
(From left) Fernandez Racing's Jayden, Carolyn, Alan, and Juliana Fernandez. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.

Fernandez Racing Siblings Gear Up for 2024 MotoAmerica Junior Cup

Fernandez Racing is more than a team—it’s a passion. Founded by their parents, Alan and Carolyn Fernandez in 2019, the team embodies passion, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

“Racing is in our blood,” team owner Alan Fernandez reflects on his racing experience as he sees the same passion for racing in his children.

Jayden and Juliana Fernandez carry the torch forward, racing not only for themselves but for the love of family and the thrill of the track.

Title sponsor Inspection Specialties owner Mike Rinow states, “This will be an exciting year for the team, and I am excited to see Jayden and Juliana ride on the track together. Jayden has been focused and training hard this year, and Juliana I believe is going to do great!”

The sibling riders raced together in the 2020 and 2021 MotoAmerica Mini Cup series, and Jayden raced in the 2022 MotoAmerica North America Talent Cup. The dynamic brother-and-sister duo is set to ignite the racetracks once again in the 2024 MotoAmerica Junior Cup. With a shared passion for speed, adrenaline, and family camaraderie, Jayden and Juliana confident to leave their tire marks on the track.

 

Jayden Fernandez (13). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.
Jayden Fernandez (13). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.

 

Jayden Fernandez, the seasoned 16-year-old rider, returns to the MotoAmerica Junior Cup after an impressive sixth-place Championship finish last year. His Kawasaki Ninja 400 sped across the finish line, securing two podiums late in the season last year and earning the respect of fellow competitors and spectators. Jayden’s determination and strategic skill promise an exciting season ahead.

“I am looking forward to another great year riding in the Junior Cup series, and I am excited to fight for the top spot of the box!” says Jayden.

Last year’s close calls fuel his hunger for the podium’s top step. Armed with experience and a finely tuned Kawasaki, he aims to outpace his rivals and rewrite his story this year.

 

Juliana Fernandez (19). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.
Juliana Fernandez (19). Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Fernandez Racing.

 

Juliana Fernandez, at just 14 years old, steps into the spotlight as the team’s rookie sensation this year after winning two championships last year with MRA. Her initial journey in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup is a testament to her raw talent and relentless drive in the sport. She’s ready to carve her own path on the asphalt and make a name for herself and for the team. Juliana’s debut this year is a symphony of nerves and excitement.

“I am excited to ride on new tracks this year and learn more about them. I am also excited to see my race friends again and ride alongside them,” states Juliana.

As one of the youngest riders on the grid, she embraces the challenge.

The 2024 season promises heart-pounding action, and Fernandez Racing is primed for battle.

“We still have a lot of work to do but the kids have been putting in laps. We’ve been testing bikes and working hard to kick start the season right. We have high expectations going into the season, and I believe we put together a winning package this year,” says Alan.

The MotoAmerica Junior Cup schedule features six rounds, each a crucible of skill, strategy, and adrenaline. From New Jersey Motorsports Park to the legendary Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, the Fernandez siblings will chase victory lap after lap.

Follow Fernandez Racing on social media as they share behind-the-scenes glimpses, heart-stopping race moments, and the unbreakable bond that fuels their quest. Witness the sibling synergy, the roar of engines, and the taste of victory.

For more information about the series or team visit: www.motoamerica.com or www.fernandez-racing.com

FIM Issues Statement On Liberty Media’s Purchase Of Dorna

(From left) Françoise Emery, FIM CEO; Jorge Viegas, FIM President; Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports; and Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director. Photo courtesy Dorna.
(From left) Françoise Emery, FIM CEO; Jorge Viegas, FIM President; Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports; and Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director, as seen in 2023 at the launch of the FIM Women Circuit Racing World Championship. Photo courtesy Dorna.

FIM Statement re: Acquisition of Dorna Sports S.L. by Liberty Media Corporation

Following the recent public announcement regarding the acquisition of Dorna Sports S.L. by Liberty Media Corporation, the FIM welcomes this agreement.

The FIM is the owner of the following championships and has entered into agreements with Dorna Sports S.L. for the promotion of:

•    The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship since 1992;

•    The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship since 2015;

•    The FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship since 2016;

•    The FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship since 2019 and

•    The FIM Women Circuit Racing World Championship since 2023.

The FIM is convinced that these World Championships will benefit from the strength and broadcast quality of Liberty Media Corporation and congratulates Greg Maffei and his team on these additions to their portfolio, which will undoubtedly help grow the sport for fans, teams, commercial partners and all related stakeholders.

The FIM is delighted to continue its excellent relationship with Dorna Sports S.L., especially with Carmelo Ezpeleta and his management team, and look forward to working together towards the growth of this exciting sport.

Aprilia Does Long-Term Partnership With RideSmart Motorcycle School

Aprilia RS 660 sportbikes at Circuit of The Americas, one of the tracks where RideSmart Motorcycle School operates. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
Aprilia RS 660 sportbikes at Circuit of The Americas, one of the tracks where RideSmart Motorcycle School operates. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

APRILIA USA AND RIDESMART MOTORCYCLE SCHOOL ENTER PARTNERSHIP, PAVING NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RIDERS TO TAKE THEIR RIDING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

EXPANDING THE ON-TRACK REPUTATION BOTH PARTNERS ARE WELL-KNOWN FOR, THIS PARTNERSHIP WILL ACCOMMODATE FLY-N-RIDE PACKAGES, ADVANCED COACHING ACTIVITY, AND A RANGE OF THE MOST CAPABLE APRILIA MACHINERY FOR THE MOST DEMANDING ENTHUSIASTS

A RACE PROGRAM WILL COMPLETE THE ATTRACTIVE OFFERING ALREADY AVAILABLE FROM RIDESMART MOTORCYCLE SCHOOL, ACCELERATING RIDER SKILLS AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS TO GROW COMPETITION WHILE REDUCING BARRIERS FOR ENTRY

NEW YORK, NY – 2 APRIL 2024 – Aprilia USA announces a new partnership with Texas-based, RideSmart Motorcycle School. The collaboration expands upon the already celebrated Aprilia Racers Days track day program, to add additional touch points with a dedicated motorcycle school and track day provider, giving thousands of riders the chance to attend one of many calendar events with RideSmart Motorcycle School over the next four years. As a result of this collaboration, riders can work to improve their riding skills in a track environment, which can be translated into better precision and speed on track, and safety on the road, and even elevate their commitment through a dedicated race program.

With this partnership, RideSmart Motorcycle School events will have a range of Aprilia sport motorcycles available as rentals, enhancing the already premium offering. RideSmart Motorcycle School’s track day programming provides the ultimate experience, combining safety, education, and on-track riding.

In addition to model availability, one of the most exciting aspects of is the introduction of the “Fly-N-Ride” program, where participants from anywhere in the world can now experience riding class-leading motorcycles on a world-class circuit, like Circuit of The Americas. Limited to availability, and select dates, this program opens the world of road racing and track riding to enthusiasts all over the globe, with the dream of riding where their favorite racers have competed.

“Our partnership with Aprilia reinforces RideSmart Motorcycle School’s commitment to shaping the future of motorcycling, not just with events and coaching opportunities, but also racing in the United States,” says Dave Johnson, Owner and Operator of RideSmart Motorcycle School. “Together, we pave the way for aspiring riders to develop their skills in a safe and exhilarating environment, fueling a passion for excellence, while fostering a community of talented riders and racers.”

The partnership between Aprilia and RideSmart Motorcycle School represents a significant step forward in providing motorcycle enthusiasts with exclusive access to premium riding experiences. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as Aprilia and RideSmart embark on this exciting journey together.

 

 

 

More, from RideSmart Motorcycle School:

RideSmart Race Program – Faster by Facts
 

What is RideSmart Race Program (RSRP)?

Our new Aprilia partnership has allowed us to equip a fleet of RS660s at a MotoAmerica level with the latest AIM SOLO data logging software, nose camera, and even including Insta360 cameras. 

This is a 2-day camp we developed with current MotoAmerica Superbike Data Engineers and Racers. You will be joined on track with a coach and other riders on the exact same machinery. This allows us to compare your data against local top racers and up to MotoAmerica pros. Data logging information is a huge tool in professional racing community, and we are bringing that to every rider that wants to reach the peak of riding ability. 

RSRP is meant for the avid track rider up to the highly skilled racer wanting to reach the pinnacle of their riding ability. RSRP is a truly personalized training curriculum for riders to advance their riding and technical skills. This 2-day program offers data driven coaching by experts working and riding at the highest levels including MotoAmerica Superbike. 

Your track-ready Aprilia RS660 will be equipped with AIM Data Loggers and AIM SmartyCams recording your riding inputs hundreds of times per second. This data allows the RSRP Data Engineers and Coaches to immediately identify where to focus efforts by comparing your data to that of expert riders and the Superbike Pros, in a first of it’s kind 1:1 comparison.

 

Why the Aprilia RS660?
 

Having notched up 54 world titles to date over a career that only began in 1992, Aprilia is one of the most successful brands in the history of motorcycle racing and with a constant, daily focus on results, Aprilia Racing is committed to taking on new, increasingly ambitious challenges. With its sporty personality and stunning contemporary lines, the RS 660 brings the winning Aprilia track experience to every rider. Delivering stability at high speeds, it is all about creating a fun, pleasurable riding experience.

 

Aprilia and RideSmart – Together

With RideSmart’s 20+ years of helping riders become better and safer riders, and Aprilia’s expertise of building championship winning motorcycles, our goal is to bring the absolute best top-tier motorcycle training program available. Stay tuned for more information and dates.

 

Fastrack Riders Hosting Track Day April 20 At Willow Springs

Willow Springs International Raceway. Photo courtesy Willow Springs International Raceway.
Willow Springs International Raceway. Photo courtesy Willow Springs International Raceway.

Willow Springs on Saturday April 20th

Prepare to throttle up and mark your calendars! Fastrack Riders is excited to announce our upcoming event at the legendary, fastest track on the west, Willow Springs International Raceway. Get ready for a day of heart-pounding speed, precision riding, and the camaraderie of fellow motorcycle aficionados.

 

Date to Remember:

This is your call to the track, an invitation to challenge yourself, improve your skills, and experience the sheer joy of riding on April 20th at one of the fastest and most renowned circuits in the motorsport world. 

 

Special Focus: Small Group Sizes & Optional Coaching:

We’re dedicated to providing an unparalleled experience with 8x 20 minutes sessions throughout the day, featuring small groups averaging 20 riders each. This ensures ample track time, space, and a focused environment where every rider can push their limits with confidence. 

Elevate your track day with OPTIONAL coaching. Our skilled instructors are at your disposal, offering personalized advice and techniques to help you conquer the track like never before. Whether it’s perfecting your line, braking later, or getting on the throttle sooner, our team is here to guide you. 

 

Early Bird Special – Act Fast!

Speed into savings with our Early Bird Special. Register by April 7th to secure your spot for [a reduced price]. Wait, and the price accelerates to [a higher price]. Don’t let this opportunity zoom past!  

 

Event Highlights:

– Location: Willow Springs International Raceway

– Date: Apr 20

– Sessions (20 minutes): 8 per group, focusing on quality track time

– Group Size: Limited to 20 riders for personalized attention

– Coaching: Available to fine-tune your skills (optional and included in the price)

 

Secure Your Spot:

Spaces are racing off the grid! To register, visit our website at www.FastrackRiders.com and ensure your place at the starting line. Remember, the early registered rider gets the savings, so don’t delay.

We’re gearing up for an unforgettable day at Willow Springs, filled with the thrill of competition, the joy of improvement, and the memorable experience of riding with Fastrack Riders.

Rev up your engines, and let’s hit the track together! 

Ride Safe,

The FastTrack Riders Team

“Rewiring riders to ride Faster, Safer, Smarter”    

 

Stay Connected!

For more details and to register for the event, please visit our website or contact us directly. Follow us on social media to stay updated on future events, tips, and much more. 
 
 

REGISTER NOW

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