Editorial Note: Americans Kensei Matsudaira (2-2) and Mahdi Salem (DNF-3) both finished on the Moto4 Latin Cup podium at Interlagos, Brazil. American Ulises Weyrauch finished 6th in both races and American Aidan Hancock finished 12th in both races.
Team Roberts Rider Kensei Matsudaira Takes Double Podiums in Moto4 Latin Cup Round 2 in Brazil
Fresh off his MotoAmerica Talent Cup race victory at the Circuit of the
Americas last month with MotoGP, Team Roberts rider Kensei Matsudaira
continued his podium streak by taking two 2nd-place finishes this
weekend at Round 2 of the FIM Moto4 Latin Cup held at Interlagos Circuit
in São Paulo, Brazil.
Kensei started the weekend strong on Friday, finishing all sessions in
both dry and wet conditions in P2, less than a second off the local
Brazilian rider topping the sessions. Kensei finished Q1 in 2nd, 0.1
seconds from P1.
After a red-flag during Q2 on Saturday cut short his qualifying effort,
Kensei lined up for the two races starting 4th on the grid.
In race 1, Kensei fought in the front group from the beginning, with the
3-rider group eventually breaking away from the rest of the field.
Kensei took over the lead on the final lap of the race heading into the
final sector, and with a flurry of position changes in the final corner
it was a 3-way photo finish with Kensei taking 2nd place, just 0.04
seconds behind the winner.
Kensei Matsudaira (left) on the Race 1 Podium at Interlagos Circuit in São Paulo, Brazil. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.
Race 2 on Sunday was a similar affair, with a 4-rider front group
breaking away from the rest of the field with Kensei leading the charge
for a significant part of the race. Once again he tried to manage the
gap and draft in the final run to the finish line, but again crossed the
line in 2nd place, 0.05 seconds behind the race winner.
Kensei was disappointed with the results of the races, but leaves Brazil
with the track lap record at Interlagos Circuit sitting 2nd in the
championship, just 8.5 points behind the early points leader.
“Honestly I can’t be happy getting 2nd in both races when the win was
just within reach, but looking on the bright side I’m the only rider
with 3 podiums out of 3 races so far and I think I’ve shown my speed at
both tracks so far in all conditions so that gives me plenty of
confidence for the future. It’s still very early in the season, I will
definitely keep pushing and start getting those wins that I’ve been
working so hard for.”
Arney Wick, Team Roberts Co-Principal:
“Once again, Kensei making a strong statement in the 2nd round of the
Moto4 Latin Cup series. As close as every finish has been for him thus
far, it seems as though it is only a matter of time that he breaks free
from the pack and puts an exclamation point on his full potential. Time
will tell of course but spirits are certainly high for the time being.”
The next round on the Moto4 Latin Cup calendar will be held at San
Nicolás Circuit in Argentina on June 19-21.
Before that, Kensei will be back in action next week with Team Roberts
at Road Atlanta in Georgia for round 2 of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup,
where he will competing on the Team Roberts Krämer APX-350 MA.
Note: Matsudaira’s team sent us a press release and the photos seen above. After we found two usable photos on Salem’s Facebook page, Salem sent us three additional photos, and they can all be seen below.
Mahdi Salem (10) leads Kensei Matsudaira (74) at Interlagos. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Mahdi Salem (10) leads Andoni Dominguez (34) of Nicaragua and Santiago Gossa (11) of Argentina. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Mahdi Salem (10) in FIM Moto4 Latin Cup action at Interlagos. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Kensei Matsudaira (left) and Mahdi Salem (right) on the Moto4 Latin Cup race 2 podium at Interlagos. Alberto Enriquez (center) of Equador won both Moto4 races.Mahdi Salem celebrates his third place finish after Moto4 race 2 at Interlagos.
It’s tiny. It’s kind of hard to reach. It gets used at the start of the race, and then it gets folded away. Oh, and for riders and engineers it’s the last big tool to shave off precious time in the corners.
That’s right, this week Peter’s coming in clutch with a deep dive into…the clutch! How does it work, what influence does it have and why are these devices so different in MotoGP, compared to the ones on your own bike?
Mat wants to know, and Peter has got the know-how. Some of it is proven, other bits are reconstructed from observation. So come with us as we courageously construct critical clutch knowledge…cheers!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
Oh, and a quick word in regards to sponsors:
If you’re interested in connecting with a really unique MotoGP audience — we’re working with Smash Brand Group out of Sydney to manage partnerships. Curious? Just head to smashbrandgroup.com.au and get in touch!
NASHVILLE – The Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship made its anticipated return to “Music City” for Round 13 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship as a massive crowd gathered inside Nissan Stadium to witness the closest three-rider title fight in 450SMX Class history. When the dust settled, Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence stepped up and seized control of the championship battle with an emphatic victory that saw him take sole possession of the points lead heading into the final four races of the season.
Hunter Lawrence Rises to the Occasion in Nashville to Seize Control of Monster Energy Supercross Title Fight
The start of the premier class 20 Minutes + 1 Lap Main Event saw Quad Lock Honda’s Shane McElrath grab the holeshot, but he was quickly surpassed by several riders that ultimately moved Team Tedder Racing KTM’s Justin Hill into the lead ahead of Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado. Lawrence slotted into the top five as Roczen went on the attack and seized control of the early lead. Behind them, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac, the championship co-leader, was mired outside the top 10.
As Roczen paced the field, Lawrence charged up to second and was the fastest rider on the track. The pace up front stabilized through the middle of the Main Event with a gap that hovered between one to two seconds as the top two pulled away from the rest of the field. With just over eight minutes to go Roczen lost traction before a triple jump, which allowed Lawrence to jump by into the lead. Roczen attempted to fight back, but Lawrence completed the pass and sprinted away to a gap of nearly two seconds. Roczen went down a short time later and dropped to fourth behind Hill and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb.
Lawrence found himself more than 15 seconds clear of the field through the final five minutes, while the battle for the podium raged on behind him. Webb attempted to make a pass on Hill for second but was initially denied. Webb regrouped and made the move stick a short time later. Roczen then followed through into third, with Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Chase Sexton pressing from fourth.
Back up front, Lawrence never put a wheel wrong and rode to a decisive fourth win this season by a margin of 7.1 seconds over Webb, as the reigning champion earned his first podium in four races. Roczen grabbed a fourth consecutive podium in third. Tomac, who was fastest qualifier and won his Heat Race, never factored into the Main Event and ran as high as eighth before a late crash relegated him to 12th, equaling his worst result of the season.
With four races to go Lawrence has opened a 10-point lead in the championship standings over Roczen, who moved from third to second. Tomac fell to third and now sits 15 points out of the lead after sharing possession of the red plate entering Nashville.
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence captured a crucial fourth win of the season to take sole possession of the 450SMX Class points lead. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“It feels great [to be back on top of the podium]. I’m so happy my wrist wasn’t holding me back today. That’s probably the coolest thing. Every Saturday I want to go out and have no limitations holding me back from anything. It feels like a home race with my collaboration with Gibson [Guitars] and how welcoming everyone is and I always look forward to coming back.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb overcame a start outside the top 10 for the first podium in four races for the reigning Supercross champion. Photo courtesy SMX
Cooper Webb – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“This race was hard. The track was sketchy and you wanted to push, but you couldn’t. I’m happy with [second] and we got through safe. I had another terrible start, which is not how you want to draw it up. We’ve got some work to do to catch that lead group, but I’ll take the podium after the past few weekends. It’s a good boost of confidence for me.”
Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen continued his late season momentum surge with a fourth straight podium finish. Photo courtesy SMX
Ken Roczen – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I just felt a little bit off today compared to the past few weekends, but nonetheless we still have only four races to go, and anything goes in the Main Event. I was doing pretty good and once Hunter [Lawrence] got by me, I was going to settle for second and that felt like it was a win for me today. I ended up tossing it right before the finish line and luckily, I got the bike started and back going. I would have loved to finish second, but I’ll take a podium. That’s like a win for us. We’ve got a bunch of racing to go.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right): Cooper Webb, Hunter Lawrence, and Ken Roczen. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 12th Place – 450SMX Class:
“What a day – the whole day was good, other than the Main Event result. I was comfortable with my setup all day, so I’m just frustrated not only with the bad gate selection – I should have avoided the inside on the start – but also the crash. That bad start really put me in a tough spot from the get-go and I had my work cut out for me trying to make passes on such a slick, tight track. I lost a bunch of points today, but all I can do at this point is ride my best at the remaining rounds and let the chips fall where they may.”
Despite a win in his Heat Race, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac never factored into the Main Event and finished 12th after a late-race crash. Photo courtesysy SMX
Cole Davies Dominant En Route to Fourth Eastern Divisional 250SMX Win
The 15 Minutes + 1 Lap Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Main Event began with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing machine of Daxton Bennick out front for the holeshot ahead of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Drew Adams. Also in the mix were the East’s two title combatants, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker. Thrasher was able to take advantage of his strong start to quickly power by Bennick, and grab hold of the early lead.
Davies and Hammaker latched on to one another and made a march forward, with Davies capitalizing on his explosive whoop speed to make passes. Less than five minutes into the race Davies moved to the front of the field, while Hammaker bided his time and worked his way up to second a short time later. As he looked to make up ground on the lead Hammaker made a costly miscue when his foot hit a tuff block and shot his Kawasaki sideways, which sent Hammaker to the ground. He quickly remounted in fourth, but several seconds outside podium contention.
Davies built a lead of more than five seconds halfway into the Main Event and added to a dominant advantage through the remainder of the race. Meanwhile, Hammaker dug deep and clawed his way back onto the podium. He passed Thrasher for third and with time running out on the race clock was all over Bennick for second. The Husqvarna rider lost traction with his rear tire in his attempt to fend off Hammaker, which initiated a collision between the pair and sent both riders to the ground. Thrasher slipped by into second, while Hammaker remounted in third and Bennick in fourth.
Davies cruised to his fourth win of the season by a margin of 17.2 seconds over Thrasher, who benefitted from the misfortunes of his rivals to capture his first podium result of the season. Hammaker salvaged a podium result in third after an adversity filled race but was later penalized two positions by race officials after he cut the track re-entering the race following his first crash. That moved ClubMX Yamaha’s Devin Simonson, who passed Bennick on the final lap, up to third for a maiden podium result.
Following the penalty to Hammaker, Davies’ points lead expanded to 29 points with three races to go. Bennick sits third, 40 points out of the lead.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies was dominant on the way to his fourth win of the season to extend his Eastern Divisional points lead. Photo courtesy SMX
Cole Davies – 1st Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“The whoops were sketchy today. They were super steep and since [the track crew] left them all day the cups were really gnarly. I’m stoked, that was a good race. I didn’t get off to a good start, but I made it happen and I’m stoked with that.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher earned an unexpected runner-up finish for his first podium result of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Nate Thrasher – 2nd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“Honestly, I did not ride good at all. I just didn’t have a flow. I was really great in practice and solid in the Heat Race. The track just kept getting harder packed and I started struggling a little bit. I got a little pumped up and did the best I could. I’m pumped to be on the podium, but we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
ClubMX Yamaha’s Devin Simonson ended up with the first podium result of his career after a post-race penalty was given to Seth Hammaker. Photo courtesy SMX
Devin Simonson – 3rd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class*:
“I was able to pick up on some lines battling with Henry [Miller] and made the pass on him quick [for fifth]. A bunch of carnage was happening out front, I honestly don’t know what, but I saw on the pit board I was battling for fourth, so I gave it everything I had and came out with this one.”
*Quote provided prior to penalty.
Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right): Nate Thrasher, Cole Davies, and Seth Hammaker. Hammaker was later penalized two positions for cutting the track. Photo courtesy SMX
Even though he crossed the line in third place, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker was penalized two positions for cutting the track and dropped to fifth, which lost him valuable points in the championship standings. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, April 18, with Round 14 from Huntington Bank Field for the sport’s first visit to Cleveland in 30 years. Live broadcast coverage will be highlighted by a network showcase on NBC at 3 p.m. ET, in addition to comprehensive coverage on Peacock, beginning at 9 a.m. ET with Race Day Live, followed by the Gate Drop at 3 p.m. ET. A special encore network presentation will air on NBC as well on Sunday, April 19, at 2 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Peacock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final are now on sale at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
STATEMENT: GOVERNOR EVERS’ VETO OF RIGHT-TO-RACE BILL STALLS WISCONSIN’S ECONOMIC ENGINE
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Performance Racing Industry (PRI) subsidiary issued the following statement following Gov. Tony Evers’ veto of AB 880:
Governor Tony Evers claims to have fond childhood memories growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, but just vetoed AB 880, the Right-to-Race bill, just so his trial-lawyer buddies can keep suing tracks out of business.
Evers acted despite overwhelming support from lawmakers from across the state who know the value of small businesses and the cultural importance of motorsports. There was no registered opposition to this bill, and for good reason: motorsports matter.
Wisconsin’s racetracks foster an industry that is the soul of Wisconsin’s small, multi-generational business community and the engine of the state’s economic viability, including:
• $2.46 billion in total economic impact
• 10,601 jobs
• $697.92 million in wages and benefits
• $271.60 million in tax revenue.
Motorsports is an industry that has enlivened life in Wisconsin for nearly a century. Instead of protecting Wisconsin’s economy and network of family-owned dirt ovals, drag strips, and every motorsports facility in between, and instead of fostering American manufacturing, STEM education, and engineering innovation, Evers made it crystal clear whose side he’s on: lawyers and NIMBYs.
SEMA and PRI instead will continue to stand with the working families, racers, mechanics, concession workers, and fans who lose when tracks close. This race isn’t finished. In fact, our coalition is stronger than ever, and we’re just getting started.
BACKGROUND
AB 880, which was passed in the Wisconsin State Legislature with strong support in the Assembly and Senate, would protect long-standing racetracks from nuisance-based lawsuits brought by nearby property owners who moved into the area after the tracks were already established.
SEMA and PRI support “Right-to-Race” laws like AB 880 that protect legally compliant, long-standing tracks from nuisance claims. These protections ensure facilities that follow all laws and permits can operate without constant legal threats, preserving racing heritage, jobs, and revenue generated by motorsports.
The automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries annually contribute a combined $406 billion to the national economy, including $69 billion by the motorsports industry alone, and support millions of jobs nationwide. Lawmakers should champion commonsense policies to protect racetrack operations, prosperity, and longevity.
SEMA and PRI work with lawmakers, track operators, sanctioning bodies, and parts manufacturers to advance these protections through advocacy, coalition building, and grassroots engagement. Tracks have operated for decades and deserve stability. This commonsense legislation ensures facilities that predate neighbors are legally protected, preserving both urban and rural jobs, tourism, and community tradition.
Motorsports venues are vital to local economies, small businesses, tourism, and heritage. Still, many face lawsuits from neighbors who moved in after the track was established and seek to limit operations or shut down the venue entirely.\
ABOUT PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY
Performance Racing Industry fuels the passion for motorsports by building, promoting, and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI supports the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies and businesses through legislative action and advocacy, its monthly business magazine Performance Racing Industry, and the world’s premier motorsports trade show, the PRI Trade Show. PRI also supports businesses by providing market research, education and best practices in motorsports business and racing technology. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.
ABOUT SEMA
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates nearly $53 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit www.sema.org.
Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) Government Agency Honors Ducati
Ducati is among the companies to which the MIMIT has dedicated a stamp of the series “Excellence of the Production System and Made in Italy.”
The issue pays tribute to the 100-year history of the Borgo Panigale company, recognizing its contribution to the promotion of Made in Italy around the world.
The stamp design features an iconic Ducati motorcycle crossed by the colours of the Italian flag, symbolizing the company’s identity and connection to its Italian roots.
Rome/Borgo Panigale – On the occasion of its Centenary, Ducati is being celebrated by the Italian State with a special stamp dedicated to the history, vision and achievements that have made the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer a global benchmark in the motorcycle industry. The issue is part of the thematic series “Excellence of the Production System and Made in Italy” dedicated to companies that have made a significant contribution to the Country’s development and innovation.
The official presentation took place on Thursday 9 April in the Sala degli Arazzi of Palazzo Piacentini, headquarters of the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, in the presence of Undersecretary of State for Philately, Fausta Bergamotto.
“2026 represents an extraordinary milestone for Ducati, embodying one hundred years of history, passion and expertise” said Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati, during the ceremony. “Made in Italy is part of our identity: a way of working that combines tradition and innovation and has enabled us to establish a distinctive vision of technology, design, and performance on the international stage. A journey that today receives further recognition through institutional initiatives such as this one, for which we would like to express our gratitude to Minister Adolfo Urso and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy.”
Founded in 1926 in Borgo Panigale (Bologna), Ducati has built a unique identity over the course of a century, evolving from its early days in radio technology to become a global excellence in motorcycling and motorsport. The values of Style, Sophistication, and Performance have always guided the Company’s choices and are reflected in motorcycles that combine advanced technology, distinctive design and an unmistakably Italian sporting character.
These elements come together in the commemorative stamp dedicated to the Centenary, featuring an iconic Ducati motorcycle–the Ducati Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore– crossed by the colors of the Italian flag: a tribute to the Company’s identity and its deep connection to the Country’s creativity, technological innovation, and tradition.
This is not the first time Ducati has been celebrated through philately. In 2022, a stamp in the thematic series “Sport” was dedicated to the MotoGP World Championship victory, featuring the Desmosedici GP22 of Francesco Bagnaia reinterpreted in the colours of the Italian flag.
The Centenary stamp is issued at the B rate.
For the occasion, a special A4 three-fold philatelic folder has also been produced, containing a block of four stamps, a single stamp, a stamped and postmarked postcard, a philatelic card, a first-day cover and an illustrated bulletin. The folder is available at post offices with philatelic counters, in Philately Spaces, and on the website filatelia.it.
The Ducati stamp will also be included in the “Book of Stamps 2026,” the annual publication that collects all the year’s issues, combining collecting, institutional memory and the story of the Country.
Gilbert to Introduce Reigning Supercross Champion and Close Friend Cooper Webb in Special Opening Ceremonies Tribute.Gilbert’s new single “Good Damn” among the most added songs at country radio two weeks in a row.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Multi-platinum selling country artist Brantley Gilbert has been named the official Grand Marshal for Round 13 of the Monster Energy SMX World ChampionshipTM taking place this Saturday, April 11 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee.
Amassing over 8.3 BILLION career streams and seven No. 1 singles with hit songs such as “Bottoms Up,” “Country Must Be Country Wide,” and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do”, Gilbert is also an accomplished songwriter, lending his world-class pen to Jason Aldean’s “Dirt Road Anthem” and “My Kinda Party.” An ACM, CMA and AMA Award winner, Gilbert’s latest single “Good Damn” was enthusiastically embraced both by fans and country radio, landing among the most-added songs two weeks in a row. “Good Damn” is the lead single from Gilbert’s eighth studio album, set for release later in the year.
Gilbert recently attended his first SMX event a couple of weeks ago in Birmingham, Alabama and enjoys a close friendship with reigning Supercross Champion Cooper Webb. Webb will be donning Brantley Gilbert artwork on his racing gear in a unique collaboration between the two superstars. Webb’s FLY Racing gear kit, helmet and Alpinestars boots will be revealed at a special event taking place at Tootsies on Friday night. Gilbert will also have a bike on hand with special event graphics.
Gilbert will play an integral role in opening ceremonies, make an appearance on the pre-race Race Day Live show, plus deliver the customary “gentleman start your engines” heard famously at motorsports events around the world. Gilbert will also wave the green flag for the official start of the premier 450SMX Class Main Event.
FanFest and Qualifying kick off at Nissan Stadium at 7:00 a.m. with opening ceremonies starting at 1:30 p.m. and racing at 2:00 p.m. CT. Tickets can be purchased at SupercrossLIVE.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
New Global Brand Platform Sets Stage For New Era of Harley-Davidson, While Honoring Its Heritage
Harley-Davidson reignites the brand with the global launch of RIDE, a refreshed brand platform that honors more than a century of driving motorcycle culture, designed for the riders of today, and paves a path forward for Harley-Davidson.
More than a word, RIDE is, at its core, the very idea that defines and drives Harley-Davidson. It is an action, a feeling, and a way of life that has been embedded into the brand since its founding in 1903. Harley-Davidson doesn’t have merely owners, rather a community of passionate riders. The very notion of RIDE brings people together, clears the mind, and turns miles into stories, reaffirming that life is better on two wheels.
“I’m thrilled to launch the RIDE platform as a full reset of the brand ahead of our company strategy rollout in May. It celebrates the fun and joy people experience riding the world’s greatest motorcycle, a Harley-Davidson,” said Artie Starrs, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.
With the launch of RIDE, Harley-Davidson unveils a new visual identity, anchored by the return of the historic Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo; a nod to where it all began and a signal to the role heritage continues to play in shaping the future of Harley-Davidson.
The platform debut comes to life through a video set to the iconic Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again,” featuring raw, authentic footage of real riders and the joy of the RIDE. The visual spotlights the true spirit of the open road and the culture that exists around it, a community Harley-Davidson originated and continues to champion. The video will air nationally across broadcast and streaming platforms, along with a comprehensive internal and external integrated campaign.
For over a century, Harley-Davidson has defined what it means to ride. RIDE is the next chapter, celebrating every rider, those who have been with us from the beginning and opening the road to anyone ready to join in. More riders. More rides. More freedom. More stories to be told.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.
Live Streaming Test Going On This Weekend From CMP
ASRA is testing live streaming from Carolina Motorsports Park but is encountering track bandwidth issues even after deploying multiple Starlink satellite internet systems.
ASRA’s Alex Spellman says he’s confident the live streaming will be functional at tracks with better internet connections, including Summit Point May 23-24.
If ASRA gets the system working at CMP, watch it here:
The organization plans to expand its live-streaming program to seven other events during the 2026 season. More information is available from www.asra.com and [email protected].
With this claim, MV Agusta proudly introduces its most exclusive and technologically advanced interpretation of the hyper naked philosophy, handcrafted in the historic production line of Schiranna, Varese.
The Rush Titanio further elevates the model’s unmistakable identity through comprehensive technical upgrades, including a refined Euro 5+ engine behaviour, extensive use of titanium components, as well as carbon and blue anodized details, up to the debut of the latest generation Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 electronic suspension system.
AN EVOLVING ICON OF RADICAL DESIGN
Since its introduction, the MV Agusta Rush has represented the boldest and most visionary expression of the hyper naked concept, combining instantly recognizable styling with cutting-edge engineering solutions and benchmark performance.
The new Rush Titanio introduces a striking Nero Intenso livery combined with Argento Magnum and Blu Titanio accents. The name “Titanio” reflects the extensive titanium package featured throughout the motorcycle, emphasizing its premium engineering and performance-driven character.
ENHANCED EURO 5+ FOUR-CYLINDER PERFORMANCE
At the heart of the Rush Titanio lies MV Agusta’s renowned 1000 cc inline four-cylinder engine, to comply with Euro 5+ regulations while maintaining uncompromising performance. The updated engine is more responsive at lower revs, ensuring smoother performance with minimal vibration.
Key updates include new camshafts, revised engine mapping, improved throttle sensitivity, optimized gearbox ratios, and a shorter final drive ratio designed to enhance acceleration and responsiveness.
Performance figures reach:
201 hp at 13,500 rpm with standard exhaust
206 hp at 14,000 rpm with Arrow Titanium Slip-on (homologated for street use)
Maximum torque stands at 116 Nm at 11,000 rpm, while a torque-assist clutch improves smoothness and rider comfort.
The Rush Titanio debuts the latest evolution of the Öhlins Smart EC 3 semi-active suspension system, representing a significant step forward in electronic chassis control.
The new hardware features Öhlins’ advanced Spool Valve technology, delivering actuator response up to seven times faster than the previous needle-valve architecture, enabling near-instant damping adjustments that continuously adapt to rider inputs and road conditions.
A new Event Based Control software platform analyses riding dynamics in real time and integrates seamlessly with ABS, Traction Control, and Wheelie Control systems. Suspension behaviour is dynamically linked to the selected Ride Mode, ensuring a coherent and fully personalized riding experience across road and track environments.
TITANIUM ENGINEERING MEETS DESIGN EXPRESSION
A defining feature of the Rush Titanio is the extensive use of brushed-finish titanium components, enhancing both performance and exclusivity. These include:
Arrow Titanium Slip-on
Exhaust carrier
Fuel tank front cover
Dashboard carrier
Headlight carrier
Complementing these elements are multiple Blu Titanio anodized aluminum details, including the rear wheel nut, rear light cover, headlight cover, fuel tank cap, lever protectors, swingarm pivot adjustment plates, and the numbered “RUSH Edizione Limitata XXX/300” plate.
Design atom-inspired elements further reinforce the technical identity of the Titanio edition.
CARBON FIBER
All carbon fiber components now feature a new twill weave finish, replacing the previous plain weave and enhancing the motorcycle’s technical aesthetic. Updated elements include engine covers, side panels, mudguards, and a redesigned rear wheel cover, alongside new graphics incorporating the Italian flag and “Motorcycle Art” lettering.
The iconic wheel configuration remains, with a spoked front wheel and signature carbon rear wheel cover.
INDUSTRY FIRST: FULL ALCANTARA SEAT
The Rush Titanio introduces the world’s first motorcycle seat entirely crafted in Alcantara using a combination of thermo-welding and laser engraving technologies within a single component.
An Alcantara EXO membrane makes the foam padding fully water-repellent, ensuring durability and comfort in all conditions. The seat was developed through close collaboration between the MV Agusta Centro Stile and Alcantara Milano, achieving a balance between luxury craftsmanship and functional performance.
EXCLUSIVE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Each Rush Titanio is delivered with a dedicated premium kit including:
Arrow Titanium Slip-on with dedicated ECU map*
Carbon cover for Slip-on
Bracket for silencer
Carbon tail cover
CNC brake/clutch levers
CNC levers protection L/R
CNC racing fuel cap
Swingarm pivot adjustment plates
Dedicated bike cover
Welcome kit and certificate of authenticity
*The Arrow Titanium Slip-on is not included in the homologated US version.
LIMITED EDITION PRODUCTION
The MV Agusta Rush Titanio will be produced in only 300 individually numbered units, confirming its status as the ultimate expression of Italian craftsmanship, advanced engineering, and exclusive hyper naked performance.
The Italian market MSRP is set at €44,900 (about $53,000 U.S.D.), with start of production scheduled for July 2026.
Kensei Matsudaira leading on Sunday at Interlagos Circuit in São Paulo, Brazil. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.
Editorial Note: Americans Kensei Matsudaira (2-2) and Mahdi Salem (DNF-3) both finished on the Moto4 Latin Cup podium at Interlagos, Brazil. American Ulises Weyrauch finished 6th in both races and American Aidan Hancock finished 12th in both races.
Team Roberts Rider Kensei Matsudaira Takes Double Podiums in Moto4 Latin Cup Round 2 in Brazil
Fresh off his MotoAmerica Talent Cup race victory at the Circuit of the
Americas last month with MotoGP, Team Roberts rider Kensei Matsudaira
continued his podium streak by taking two 2nd-place finishes this
weekend at Round 2 of the FIM Moto4 Latin Cup held at Interlagos Circuit
in São Paulo, Brazil.
Kensei started the weekend strong on Friday, finishing all sessions in
both dry and wet conditions in P2, less than a second off the local
Brazilian rider topping the sessions. Kensei finished Q1 in 2nd, 0.1
seconds from P1.
After a red-flag during Q2 on Saturday cut short his qualifying effort,
Kensei lined up for the two races starting 4th on the grid.
In race 1, Kensei fought in the front group from the beginning, with the
3-rider group eventually breaking away from the rest of the field.
Kensei took over the lead on the final lap of the race heading into the
final sector, and with a flurry of position changes in the final corner
it was a 3-way photo finish with Kensei taking 2nd place, just 0.04
seconds behind the winner.
Kensei Matsudaira (left) on the Race 1 Podium at Interlagos Circuit in São Paulo, Brazil. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.
Race 2 on Sunday was a similar affair, with a 4-rider front group
breaking away from the rest of the field with Kensei leading the charge
for a significant part of the race. Once again he tried to manage the
gap and draft in the final run to the finish line, but again crossed the
line in 2nd place, 0.05 seconds behind the race winner.
Kensei was disappointed with the results of the races, but leaves Brazil
with the track lap record at Interlagos Circuit sitting 2nd in the
championship, just 8.5 points behind the early points leader.
“Honestly I can’t be happy getting 2nd in both races when the win was
just within reach, but looking on the bright side I’m the only rider
with 3 podiums out of 3 races so far and I think I’ve shown my speed at
both tracks so far in all conditions so that gives me plenty of
confidence for the future. It’s still very early in the season, I will
definitely keep pushing and start getting those wins that I’ve been
working so hard for.”
Arney Wick, Team Roberts Co-Principal:
“Once again, Kensei making a strong statement in the 2nd round of the
Moto4 Latin Cup series. As close as every finish has been for him thus
far, it seems as though it is only a matter of time that he breaks free
from the pack and puts an exclamation point on his full potential. Time
will tell of course but spirits are certainly high for the time being.”
The next round on the Moto4 Latin Cup calendar will be held at San
Nicolás Circuit in Argentina on June 19-21.
Before that, Kensei will be back in action next week with Team Roberts
at Road Atlanta in Georgia for round 2 of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup,
where he will competing on the Team Roberts Krämer APX-350 MA.
Note: Matsudaira’s team sent us a press release and the photos seen above. After we found two usable photos on Salem’s Facebook page, Salem sent us three additional photos, and they can all be seen below.
Mahdi Salem (10) leads Kensei Matsudaira (74) at Interlagos. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Mahdi Salem (10) leads Andoni Dominguez (34) of Nicaragua and Santiago Gossa (11) of Argentina. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Mahdi Salem (10) in FIM Moto4 Latin Cup action at Interlagos. Moto4 Latin Cup photo.Kensei Matsudaira (left) and Mahdi Salem (right) on the Moto4 Latin Cup race 2 podium at Interlagos. Alberto Enriquez (center) of Equador won both Moto4 races.Mahdi Salem celebrates his third place finish after Moto4 race 2 at Interlagos.
Joan Mir (36), Maverick Viñales (12) and Francesco Bagnaia (63) during the Sepang Test. Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
By Mat Oxley:
It’s tiny. It’s kind of hard to reach. It gets used at the start of the race, and then it gets folded away. Oh, and for riders and engineers it’s the last big tool to shave off precious time in the corners.
That’s right, this week Peter’s coming in clutch with a deep dive into…the clutch! How does it work, what influence does it have and why are these devices so different in MotoGP, compared to the ones on your own bike?
Mat wants to know, and Peter has got the know-how. Some of it is proven, other bits are reconstructed from observation. So come with us as we courageously construct critical clutch knowledge…cheers!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
Oh, and a quick word in regards to sponsors:
If you’re interested in connecting with a really unique MotoGP audience — we’re working with Smash Brand Group out of Sydney to manage partnerships. Curious? Just head to smashbrandgroup.com.au and get in touch!
The 13th race of Monster Energy Supercross signified the championship's first visit to Nashville since the 2024 season. Photo courtesy SMX
NASHVILLE – The Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship made its anticipated return to “Music City” for Round 13 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship as a massive crowd gathered inside Nissan Stadium to witness the closest three-rider title fight in 450SMX Class history. When the dust settled, Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence stepped up and seized control of the championship battle with an emphatic victory that saw him take sole possession of the points lead heading into the final four races of the season.
Hunter Lawrence Rises to the Occasion in Nashville to Seize Control of Monster Energy Supercross Title Fight
The start of the premier class 20 Minutes + 1 Lap Main Event saw Quad Lock Honda’s Shane McElrath grab the holeshot, but he was quickly surpassed by several riders that ultimately moved Team Tedder Racing KTM’s Justin Hill into the lead ahead of Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado. Lawrence slotted into the top five as Roczen went on the attack and seized control of the early lead. Behind them, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac, the championship co-leader, was mired outside the top 10.
As Roczen paced the field, Lawrence charged up to second and was the fastest rider on the track. The pace up front stabilized through the middle of the Main Event with a gap that hovered between one to two seconds as the top two pulled away from the rest of the field. With just over eight minutes to go Roczen lost traction before a triple jump, which allowed Lawrence to jump by into the lead. Roczen attempted to fight back, but Lawrence completed the pass and sprinted away to a gap of nearly two seconds. Roczen went down a short time later and dropped to fourth behind Hill and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb.
Lawrence found himself more than 15 seconds clear of the field through the final five minutes, while the battle for the podium raged on behind him. Webb attempted to make a pass on Hill for second but was initially denied. Webb regrouped and made the move stick a short time later. Roczen then followed through into third, with Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Chase Sexton pressing from fourth.
Back up front, Lawrence never put a wheel wrong and rode to a decisive fourth win this season by a margin of 7.1 seconds over Webb, as the reigning champion earned his first podium in four races. Roczen grabbed a fourth consecutive podium in third. Tomac, who was fastest qualifier and won his Heat Race, never factored into the Main Event and ran as high as eighth before a late crash relegated him to 12th, equaling his worst result of the season.
With four races to go Lawrence has opened a 10-point lead in the championship standings over Roczen, who moved from third to second. Tomac fell to third and now sits 15 points out of the lead after sharing possession of the red plate entering Nashville.
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence captured a crucial fourth win of the season to take sole possession of the 450SMX Class points lead. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“It feels great [to be back on top of the podium]. I’m so happy my wrist wasn’t holding me back today. That’s probably the coolest thing. Every Saturday I want to go out and have no limitations holding me back from anything. It feels like a home race with my collaboration with Gibson [Guitars] and how welcoming everyone is and I always look forward to coming back.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb overcame a start outside the top 10 for the first podium in four races for the reigning Supercross champion. Photo courtesy SMX
Cooper Webb – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“This race was hard. The track was sketchy and you wanted to push, but you couldn’t. I’m happy with [second] and we got through safe. I had another terrible start, which is not how you want to draw it up. We’ve got some work to do to catch that lead group, but I’ll take the podium after the past few weekends. It’s a good boost of confidence for me.”
Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen continued his late season momentum surge with a fourth straight podium finish. Photo courtesy SMX
Ken Roczen – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I just felt a little bit off today compared to the past few weekends, but nonetheless we still have only four races to go, and anything goes in the Main Event. I was doing pretty good and once Hunter [Lawrence] got by me, I was going to settle for second and that felt like it was a win for me today. I ended up tossing it right before the finish line and luckily, I got the bike started and back going. I would have loved to finish second, but I’ll take a podium. That’s like a win for us. We’ve got a bunch of racing to go.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right): Cooper Webb, Hunter Lawrence, and Ken Roczen. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 12th Place – 450SMX Class:
“What a day – the whole day was good, other than the Main Event result. I was comfortable with my setup all day, so I’m just frustrated not only with the bad gate selection – I should have avoided the inside on the start – but also the crash. That bad start really put me in a tough spot from the get-go and I had my work cut out for me trying to make passes on such a slick, tight track. I lost a bunch of points today, but all I can do at this point is ride my best at the remaining rounds and let the chips fall where they may.”
Despite a win in his Heat Race, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac never factored into the Main Event and finished 12th after a late-race crash. Photo courtesysy SMX
Cole Davies Dominant En Route to Fourth Eastern Divisional 250SMX Win
The 15 Minutes + 1 Lap Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Main Event began with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing machine of Daxton Bennick out front for the holeshot ahead of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Drew Adams. Also in the mix were the East’s two title combatants, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker. Thrasher was able to take advantage of his strong start to quickly power by Bennick, and grab hold of the early lead.
Davies and Hammaker latched on to one another and made a march forward, with Davies capitalizing on his explosive whoop speed to make passes. Less than five minutes into the race Davies moved to the front of the field, while Hammaker bided his time and worked his way up to second a short time later. As he looked to make up ground on the lead Hammaker made a costly miscue when his foot hit a tuff block and shot his Kawasaki sideways, which sent Hammaker to the ground. He quickly remounted in fourth, but several seconds outside podium contention.
Davies built a lead of more than five seconds halfway into the Main Event and added to a dominant advantage through the remainder of the race. Meanwhile, Hammaker dug deep and clawed his way back onto the podium. He passed Thrasher for third and with time running out on the race clock was all over Bennick for second. The Husqvarna rider lost traction with his rear tire in his attempt to fend off Hammaker, which initiated a collision between the pair and sent both riders to the ground. Thrasher slipped by into second, while Hammaker remounted in third and Bennick in fourth.
Davies cruised to his fourth win of the season by a margin of 17.2 seconds over Thrasher, who benefitted from the misfortunes of his rivals to capture his first podium result of the season. Hammaker salvaged a podium result in third after an adversity filled race but was later penalized two positions by race officials after he cut the track re-entering the race following his first crash. That moved ClubMX Yamaha’s Devin Simonson, who passed Bennick on the final lap, up to third for a maiden podium result.
Following the penalty to Hammaker, Davies’ points lead expanded to 29 points with three races to go. Bennick sits third, 40 points out of the lead.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies was dominant on the way to his fourth win of the season to extend his Eastern Divisional points lead. Photo courtesy SMX
Cole Davies – 1st Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“The whoops were sketchy today. They were super steep and since [the track crew] left them all day the cups were really gnarly. I’m stoked, that was a good race. I didn’t get off to a good start, but I made it happen and I’m stoked with that.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher earned an unexpected runner-up finish for his first podium result of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Nate Thrasher – 2nd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“Honestly, I did not ride good at all. I just didn’t have a flow. I was really great in practice and solid in the Heat Race. The track just kept getting harder packed and I started struggling a little bit. I got a little pumped up and did the best I could. I’m pumped to be on the podium, but we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
ClubMX Yamaha’s Devin Simonson ended up with the first podium result of his career after a post-race penalty was given to Seth Hammaker. Photo courtesy SMX
Devin Simonson – 3rd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class*:
“I was able to pick up on some lines battling with Henry [Miller] and made the pass on him quick [for fifth]. A bunch of carnage was happening out front, I honestly don’t know what, but I saw on the pit board I was battling for fourth, so I gave it everything I had and came out with this one.”
*Quote provided prior to penalty.
Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right): Nate Thrasher, Cole Davies, and Seth Hammaker. Hammaker was later penalized two positions for cutting the track. Photo courtesy SMX
Even though he crossed the line in third place, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker was penalized two positions for cutting the track and dropped to fifth, which lost him valuable points in the championship standings. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, April 18, with Round 14 from Huntington Bank Field for the sport’s first visit to Cleveland in 30 years. Live broadcast coverage will be highlighted by a network showcase on NBC at 3 p.m. ET, in addition to comprehensive coverage on Peacock, beginning at 9 a.m. ET with Race Day Live, followed by the Gate Drop at 3 p.m. ET. A special encore network presentation will air on NBC as well on Sunday, April 19, at 2 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Peacock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final are now on sale at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Road America, in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Photo courtesy Road America.
STATEMENT: GOVERNOR EVERS’ VETO OF RIGHT-TO-RACE BILL STALLS WISCONSIN’S ECONOMIC ENGINE
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Performance Racing Industry (PRI) subsidiary issued the following statement following Gov. Tony Evers’ veto of AB 880:
Governor Tony Evers claims to have fond childhood memories growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, but just vetoed AB 880, the Right-to-Race bill, just so his trial-lawyer buddies can keep suing tracks out of business.
Evers acted despite overwhelming support from lawmakers from across the state who know the value of small businesses and the cultural importance of motorsports. There was no registered opposition to this bill, and for good reason: motorsports matter.
Wisconsin’s racetracks foster an industry that is the soul of Wisconsin’s small, multi-generational business community and the engine of the state’s economic viability, including:
• $2.46 billion in total economic impact
• 10,601 jobs
• $697.92 million in wages and benefits
• $271.60 million in tax revenue.
Motorsports is an industry that has enlivened life in Wisconsin for nearly a century. Instead of protecting Wisconsin’s economy and network of family-owned dirt ovals, drag strips, and every motorsports facility in between, and instead of fostering American manufacturing, STEM education, and engineering innovation, Evers made it crystal clear whose side he’s on: lawyers and NIMBYs.
SEMA and PRI instead will continue to stand with the working families, racers, mechanics, concession workers, and fans who lose when tracks close. This race isn’t finished. In fact, our coalition is stronger than ever, and we’re just getting started.
BACKGROUND
AB 880, which was passed in the Wisconsin State Legislature with strong support in the Assembly and Senate, would protect long-standing racetracks from nuisance-based lawsuits brought by nearby property owners who moved into the area after the tracks were already established.
SEMA and PRI support “Right-to-Race” laws like AB 880 that protect legally compliant, long-standing tracks from nuisance claims. These protections ensure facilities that follow all laws and permits can operate without constant legal threats, preserving racing heritage, jobs, and revenue generated by motorsports.
The automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries annually contribute a combined $406 billion to the national economy, including $69 billion by the motorsports industry alone, and support millions of jobs nationwide. Lawmakers should champion commonsense policies to protect racetrack operations, prosperity, and longevity.
SEMA and PRI work with lawmakers, track operators, sanctioning bodies, and parts manufacturers to advance these protections through advocacy, coalition building, and grassroots engagement. Tracks have operated for decades and deserve stability. This commonsense legislation ensures facilities that predate neighbors are legally protected, preserving both urban and rural jobs, tourism, and community tradition.
Motorsports venues are vital to local economies, small businesses, tourism, and heritage. Still, many face lawsuits from neighbors who moved in after the track was established and seek to limit operations or shut down the venue entirely.\
ABOUT PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY
Performance Racing Industry fuels the passion for motorsports by building, promoting, and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI supports the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies and businesses through legislative action and advocacy, its monthly business magazine Performance Racing Industry, and the world’s premier motorsports trade show, the PRI Trade Show. PRI also supports businesses by providing market research, education and best practices in motorsports business and racing technology. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.
ABOUT SEMA
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates nearly $53 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit www.sema.org.
The Italian government has issued a postage stamp and associated collectibles in honor of Ducati's 100th anniversary.
Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) Government Agency Honors Ducati
Ducati is among the companies to which the MIMIT has dedicated a stamp of the series “Excellence of the Production System and Made in Italy.”
The issue pays tribute to the 100-year history of the Borgo Panigale company, recognizing its contribution to the promotion of Made in Italy around the world.
The stamp design features an iconic Ducati motorcycle crossed by the colours of the Italian flag, symbolizing the company’s identity and connection to its Italian roots.
Rome/Borgo Panigale – On the occasion of its Centenary, Ducati is being celebrated by the Italian State with a special stamp dedicated to the history, vision and achievements that have made the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer a global benchmark in the motorcycle industry. The issue is part of the thematic series “Excellence of the Production System and Made in Italy” dedicated to companies that have made a significant contribution to the Country’s development and innovation.
The official presentation took place on Thursday 9 April in the Sala degli Arazzi of Palazzo Piacentini, headquarters of the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, in the presence of Undersecretary of State for Philately, Fausta Bergamotto.
“2026 represents an extraordinary milestone for Ducati, embodying one hundred years of history, passion and expertise” said Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati, during the ceremony. “Made in Italy is part of our identity: a way of working that combines tradition and innovation and has enabled us to establish a distinctive vision of technology, design, and performance on the international stage. A journey that today receives further recognition through institutional initiatives such as this one, for which we would like to express our gratitude to Minister Adolfo Urso and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy.”
Founded in 1926 in Borgo Panigale (Bologna), Ducati has built a unique identity over the course of a century, evolving from its early days in radio technology to become a global excellence in motorcycling and motorsport. The values of Style, Sophistication, and Performance have always guided the Company’s choices and are reflected in motorcycles that combine advanced technology, distinctive design and an unmistakably Italian sporting character.
These elements come together in the commemorative stamp dedicated to the Centenary, featuring an iconic Ducati motorcycle–the Ducati Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore– crossed by the colors of the Italian flag: a tribute to the Company’s identity and its deep connection to the Country’s creativity, technological innovation, and tradition.
This is not the first time Ducati has been celebrated through philately. In 2022, a stamp in the thematic series “Sport” was dedicated to the MotoGP World Championship victory, featuring the Desmosedici GP22 of Francesco Bagnaia reinterpreted in the colours of the Italian flag.
The Centenary stamp is issued at the B rate.
For the occasion, a special A4 three-fold philatelic folder has also been produced, containing a block of four stamps, a single stamp, a stamped and postmarked postcard, a philatelic card, a first-day cover and an illustrated bulletin. The folder is available at post offices with philatelic counters, in Philately Spaces, and on the website filatelia.it.
The Ducati stamp will also be included in the “Book of Stamps 2026,” the annual publication that collects all the year’s issues, combining collecting, institutional memory and the story of the Country.
Multi-platinum selling country artist Brantley Gilbert named Grand Marshal for the Nashville Supercross race being held at Nissan Stadium. Photo courtesy SMX
Gilbert to Introduce Reigning Supercross Champion and Close Friend Cooper Webb in Special Opening Ceremonies Tribute.Gilbert’s new single “Good Damn” among the most added songs at country radio two weeks in a row.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Multi-platinum selling country artist Brantley Gilbert has been named the official Grand Marshal for Round 13 of the Monster Energy SMX World ChampionshipTM taking place this Saturday, April 11 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee.
Amassing over 8.3 BILLION career streams and seven No. 1 singles with hit songs such as “Bottoms Up,” “Country Must Be Country Wide,” and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do”, Gilbert is also an accomplished songwriter, lending his world-class pen to Jason Aldean’s “Dirt Road Anthem” and “My Kinda Party.” An ACM, CMA and AMA Award winner, Gilbert’s latest single “Good Damn” was enthusiastically embraced both by fans and country radio, landing among the most-added songs two weeks in a row. “Good Damn” is the lead single from Gilbert’s eighth studio album, set for release later in the year.
Gilbert recently attended his first SMX event a couple of weeks ago in Birmingham, Alabama and enjoys a close friendship with reigning Supercross Champion Cooper Webb. Webb will be donning Brantley Gilbert artwork on his racing gear in a unique collaboration between the two superstars. Webb’s FLY Racing gear kit, helmet and Alpinestars boots will be revealed at a special event taking place at Tootsies on Friday night. Gilbert will also have a bike on hand with special event graphics.
Gilbert will play an integral role in opening ceremonies, make an appearance on the pre-race Race Day Live show, plus deliver the customary “gentleman start your engines” heard famously at motorsports events around the world. Gilbert will also wave the green flag for the official start of the premier 450SMX Class Main Event.
FanFest and Qualifying kick off at Nissan Stadium at 7:00 a.m. with opening ceremonies starting at 1:30 p.m. and racing at 2:00 p.m. CT. Tickets can be purchased at SupercrossLIVE.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Bradley Smith (38) on his Harley-Davidson Bagger racebike at Daytona. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON LAUNCHES RIDE
New Global Brand Platform Sets Stage For New Era of Harley-Davidson, While Honoring Its Heritage
Harley-Davidson reignites the brand with the global launch of RIDE, a refreshed brand platform that honors more than a century of driving motorcycle culture, designed for the riders of today, and paves a path forward for Harley-Davidson.
More than a word, RIDE is, at its core, the very idea that defines and drives Harley-Davidson. It is an action, a feeling, and a way of life that has been embedded into the brand since its founding in 1903. Harley-Davidson doesn’t have merely owners, rather a community of passionate riders. The very notion of RIDE brings people together, clears the mind, and turns miles into stories, reaffirming that life is better on two wheels.
“I’m thrilled to launch the RIDE platform as a full reset of the brand ahead of our company strategy rollout in May. It celebrates the fun and joy people experience riding the world’s greatest motorcycle, a Harley-Davidson,” said Artie Starrs, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.
With the launch of RIDE, Harley-Davidson unveils a new visual identity, anchored by the return of the historic Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo; a nod to where it all began and a signal to the role heritage continues to play in shaping the future of Harley-Davidson.
The platform debut comes to life through a video set to the iconic Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again,” featuring raw, authentic footage of real riders and the joy of the RIDE. The visual spotlights the true spirit of the open road and the culture that exists around it, a community Harley-Davidson originated and continues to champion. The video will air nationally across broadcast and streaming platforms, along with a comprehensive internal and external integrated campaign.
For over a century, Harley-Davidson has defined what it means to ride. RIDE is the next chapter, celebrating every rider, those who have been with us from the beginning and opening the road to anyone ready to join in. More riders. More rides. More freedom. More stories to be told.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.
Live Streaming Test Going On This Weekend From CMP
ASRA is testing live streaming from Carolina Motorsports Park but is encountering track bandwidth issues even after deploying multiple Starlink satellite internet systems.
ASRA’s Alex Spellman says he’s confident the live streaming will be functional at tracks with better internet connections, including Summit Point May 23-24.
If ASRA gets the system working at CMP, watch it here:
The organization plans to expand its live-streaming program to seven other events during the 2026 season. More information is available from www.asra.com and [email protected].
MV Agusta Rush Titanio production is scheduled to start in July. MV photo.
MV AGUSTA RUSH TITANIO. PURE ELEMENT
With this claim, MV Agusta proudly introduces its most exclusive and technologically advanced interpretation of the hyper naked philosophy, handcrafted in the historic production line of Schiranna, Varese.
The Rush Titanio further elevates the model’s unmistakable identity through comprehensive technical upgrades, including a refined Euro 5+ engine behaviour, extensive use of titanium components, as well as carbon and blue anodized details, up to the debut of the latest generation Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 electronic suspension system.
AN EVOLVING ICON OF RADICAL DESIGN
Since its introduction, the MV Agusta Rush has represented the boldest and most visionary expression of the hyper naked concept, combining instantly recognizable styling with cutting-edge engineering solutions and benchmark performance.
The new Rush Titanio introduces a striking Nero Intenso livery combined with Argento Magnum and Blu Titanio accents. The name “Titanio” reflects the extensive titanium package featured throughout the motorcycle, emphasizing its premium engineering and performance-driven character.
ENHANCED EURO 5+ FOUR-CYLINDER PERFORMANCE
At the heart of the Rush Titanio lies MV Agusta’s renowned 1000 cc inline four-cylinder engine, to comply with Euro 5+ regulations while maintaining uncompromising performance. The updated engine is more responsive at lower revs, ensuring smoother performance with minimal vibration.
Key updates include new camshafts, revised engine mapping, improved throttle sensitivity, optimized gearbox ratios, and a shorter final drive ratio designed to enhance acceleration and responsiveness.
Performance figures reach:
201 hp at 13,500 rpm with standard exhaust
206 hp at 14,000 rpm with Arrow Titanium Slip-on (homologated for street use)
Maximum torque stands at 116 Nm at 11,000 rpm, while a torque-assist clutch improves smoothness and rider comfort.
The Rush Titanio debuts the latest evolution of the Öhlins Smart EC 3 semi-active suspension system, representing a significant step forward in electronic chassis control.
The new hardware features Öhlins’ advanced Spool Valve technology, delivering actuator response up to seven times faster than the previous needle-valve architecture, enabling near-instant damping adjustments that continuously adapt to rider inputs and road conditions.
A new Event Based Control software platform analyses riding dynamics in real time and integrates seamlessly with ABS, Traction Control, and Wheelie Control systems. Suspension behaviour is dynamically linked to the selected Ride Mode, ensuring a coherent and fully personalized riding experience across road and track environments.
TITANIUM ENGINEERING MEETS DESIGN EXPRESSION
A defining feature of the Rush Titanio is the extensive use of brushed-finish titanium components, enhancing both performance and exclusivity. These include:
Arrow Titanium Slip-on
Exhaust carrier
Fuel tank front cover
Dashboard carrier
Headlight carrier
Complementing these elements are multiple Blu Titanio anodized aluminum details, including the rear wheel nut, rear light cover, headlight cover, fuel tank cap, lever protectors, swingarm pivot adjustment plates, and the numbered “RUSH Edizione Limitata XXX/300” plate.
Design atom-inspired elements further reinforce the technical identity of the Titanio edition.
CARBON FIBER
All carbon fiber components now feature a new twill weave finish, replacing the previous plain weave and enhancing the motorcycle’s technical aesthetic. Updated elements include engine covers, side panels, mudguards, and a redesigned rear wheel cover, alongside new graphics incorporating the Italian flag and “Motorcycle Art” lettering.
The iconic wheel configuration remains, with a spoked front wheel and signature carbon rear wheel cover.
INDUSTRY FIRST: FULL ALCANTARA SEAT
The Rush Titanio introduces the world’s first motorcycle seat entirely crafted in Alcantara using a combination of thermo-welding and laser engraving technologies within a single component.
An Alcantara EXO membrane makes the foam padding fully water-repellent, ensuring durability and comfort in all conditions. The seat was developed through close collaboration between the MV Agusta Centro Stile and Alcantara Milano, achieving a balance between luxury craftsmanship and functional performance.
EXCLUSIVE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Each Rush Titanio is delivered with a dedicated premium kit including:
Arrow Titanium Slip-on with dedicated ECU map*
Carbon cover for Slip-on
Bracket for silencer
Carbon tail cover
CNC brake/clutch levers
CNC levers protection L/R
CNC racing fuel cap
Swingarm pivot adjustment plates
Dedicated bike cover
Welcome kit and certificate of authenticity
*The Arrow Titanium Slip-on is not included in the homologated US version.
LIMITED EDITION PRODUCTION
The MV Agusta Rush Titanio will be produced in only 300 individually numbered units, confirming its status as the ultimate expression of Italian craftsmanship, advanced engineering, and exclusive hyper naked performance.
The Italian market MSRP is set at €44,900 (about $53,000 U.S.D.), with start of production scheduled for July 2026.
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Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
June 8, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
