New N2 Racing Assn. Starts With 6-Hour Endurance At VIR

John Ulrich

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December 26, 2025

New N2 Racing Assn. Starts With 6-Hour Endurance At VIR

N2 Track Days Announces the N2RA 6-Hour of VIR Endurance Race

N2 Track Days, the premier track-day organization on the East Coast and the driving force behind the revival of endurance motorcycle racing in the United States, is proud to introduce N2RA – the N2 Racing Association. Built on nearly a decade of success elevating and modernizing endurance racing, N2RA represents the next major step in creating a sustainable, future-focused platform for racers, teams, sponsors, and the broader American road racing community.

The inaugural N2RA event will take place at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) on August 7–9, 2026, featuring a full weekend of riding and racing: A Friday N2 Track Day; Saturday practice, qualifying, and racing; and a full slate of endurance events on Sunday. The weekend will be headlined by the 6-Hour of VIR Endurance Race for Relay, Lightsport, Supersport, and Superbike teams, and a 2-Hour Endurance Race for Ultralight machines.

N2RA leadership includes N2 Track Days CEO Jim Curtis, COO John Farrell, Race Director Anthony Sabbatino, and Business Development & Communications Director Chip Spalding, supported by a highly experienced team of officials, technical advisors, and racing-industry partners.

N2RA – A NEW ERA BUILT ON A DECADE OF PROGRESS

N2’s connection to endurance racing traces back to 2016, when the discipline was on the verge of disappearing in the United States.

In 2017, N2 stepped in. Partnering with WERA, N2 funded and promoted a revitalized endurance program built on professionalism, consistency, and rider-focused execution. Participation soared—from just a handful of teams to more than 140 teams in the final season, making the N2/WERA National Endurance Series one of the most successful club-level race programs in the country.

After six successful years, it became clear that endurance racing needed a modernized structure aligned with MotoAmerica and FIM performance standards, one capable of providing riders with a clearer developmental path to the professional ranks. The decision was made to evolve the program into a stand-alone organization: N2RA.

When the logistical timeline proved too tight to execute a full 2025 season at N2’s expected level of professionalism, leadership made the difficult but correct decision to postpone the broader rollout. Instead, N2RA will debut with a single, flagship endurance weekend at VIR—designed as the prototype for future seasons.

“We have always done things the right way, not the fast way,” said N2 CEO Jim Curtis. “If we couldn’t deliver a racing program with the professionalism our racers and partners deserve, we weren’t going to force it. Now we’re ready to take the next step.”

THE N2RA 6-Hour of VIR Weekend Format

FRIDAY – N2 Track Day

A traditional N2 Track Day with Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced groups open to riders of all levels. This gives our large, engaged track day community a chance to participate in this groundbreaking event while allowing racers valuable track time to familiarize themselves with the circuit, shake down equipment, and prepare for competition.

SATURDAY – Practice & Qualifying (20-Minute Sessions) + Endurance 30 Races

Saturday includes practice and timed qualifying sessions for all classes.
In addition, N2RA will debut the new “Endurance 30” races—30 minutes plus one lap—offered for each class:

*Superbike 30

*Supersport 30

*Lightsport 30

*Ultralight 30

These sprint-endurance hybrids provide meaningful racecraft opportunities, clean pace, tire, and fuel mileage data, and a compelling show for spectators.

SUNDAY – Feature Endurance Races

The heart of the N2RA program:

*N2RA Ultralight 2-Hour Endurance Race

*N2RA 6-Hours of VIR, featuring:

*Lightsport 6-Hour

*Supersport 6-Hour

*Superbike 6-Hour

*Special Exhibition Relay Class

CLASS STRUCTURE: A MODERNIZED PLATFORM

Drawing from FIM and MotoAmerica guidance, N2RA’s class system offers a clear development ladder and modern structure for endurance racing.

Ultralight

Small-displacement performance motorcycles ideal for developing riders and endurance fundamentals. Examples: Ninja 400, YZF-R3, RC390, etc.

Lightsport

Middleweight twins and similar platforms emphasizing corner speed, racecraft, and reliability. Examples: RS660, R7, GSX-8R, ZX-4RR, etc.

Supersport

High-performance middleweight machines following modern Supersport regulations.
Examples: YZF-R9, YZF-R6, GSX-R600/750, Ducati V2, KTM RC 990, etc.

Superbike

Premier-class liter motorcycles built for maximum performance, strategy, and endurance teamwork. Examples: YZF-R1, CBR1000RR-R, Aprilia RSV4, Ducati V4, ZX-10R, GSX-R1000, etc.

This structure allows teams to cross-enter machines into regional racing, endurance events, and eventually professional series with minimal modification—creating a consistent, scalable development pathway.

RULE BOOK & STANDARDS

N2RA has collaborated with MotoAmerica, FIM, AMA, industry partners, and technical experts to create a new, modern rulebook that reflects current racing technology and best practices. The rulebook is tentative pending final review, but early standards include:

*Standardized equipment specifications

*Enhanced safety and fueling regulations

*Modernized procedures aligned with professional racing

*Unified technical guidelines to simplify cross-series participation

This framework promotes fairness, consistency, safety, and long-term sustainability.

SPONSORSHIP, PURSE & INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES

N2RA offers a compelling platform for sponsors seeking high-engagement visibility in one of the fastest-growing demographics in motorsport. Endurance racing uniquely highlights teamwork, reliability, strategy, and long-form brand exposure.

N2RA’s sponsorship ecosystem will include:

Event sponsorship

Class and purse sponsorship

Contingency programs

Vendor and manufacturer partnerships

Media and broadcast opportunities

“This is an incredible opportunity for brands who want meaningful reach into both track-day riders and racers,” said N2RA Business Development Manager Chip Spalding. “Endurance racing is exciting, unique, and extremely visible—and we’re already working with partners to build strong purse and contingency packages for our teams.”

ABOUT N2: RIDE. LEARN. RACE.

Founded in 2014, N2 Track Days is the East Coast leader in structured motorcycle track events, rider training programs using Yamaha Champions Riding School methodology, and the revitalization of American endurance racing. N2 has been a major contributor to the MotoAmerica paddock, the Roadracing World Action Fund, and the broader riding community.

For more information, visit www.n2td.org.

Aleix Espargaró’s MotoGP Aprilia RS-GP20 Being Auctioned

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 25, 2025

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Aleix Espargaró’s MotoGP Aprilia RS-GP20 Being Auctioned

Ashorne, Warwick UK — Iconic Auctioneers will offer an important modern MotoGP machine at its Iconic Motorcycle Sale at RaceRetro on February 22, with a 2020 factory Aprilia RS-GP 20 race bike consigned directly from Aleix Espargaro. Raced by Espargaro during the 2020 MotoGP season, the factory 1,000cc Aprilia comes straight from the rider’s own collection and will be offered with an estimate of £300,000 to £400,000 ($404.000 to $540,000 USD, per currency conversion site XE.com) reinforcing Iconic Auctioneers’ reputation as purveyors of excellence across the motorcycle market.

The2020 season marked a significant point for Aprilia, which introduced a comprehensively revised RS-GP. The new machine featured a double rail alloy frame, V90 engine, revised aerodynamics and a seamless transmission. Campaigned by Aleix Espargaro and Bradley Smith, results were mixed in a disrupted season, with Espargaro finishing 17th overall and securing an eighth-place finish at the final round in Portugal. Smith finished 21st overall, with his best result, a 12th place in Andalucía, before being replaced for the final three rounds.

This particular RS-GP 20 has belonged to Aleix Espargaro since 2022, having come directly from Aprilia, and has since formed part of his private collection. It is presented in original condition and fitted with its factory Marelli ignition system, Akrapovic exhaust system, bespoke Ohlins suspension, Brembo calipers with carbon front discs and full carbon fiber bodywork.

While the bike has not been used for some time, it is running and would require assistance from Aprilia before being returned to the track. The sale includes a set of Aleix Espargaro’s leathers, helmet, boots and gloves from the 2020 season, along with some Aprilia paperwork and delivery notes, adding further weight to its provenance.

For collectors of top-level Grand Prix machinery, it represents a rare chance to acquire a factory-entered Aprilia MotoGP bike with direct rider ownership. Mark Bryan, Motorcycle Manager at Iconic Auctioneers, said: ““Having a MotoGP racebike offered directly by Aleix Espargaro is hugely significant and marks the first time we have presented a motorcycle of this level consigned straight from the rider. This Aprilia RS-GP 20 is a genuine factory machine with clear history and provenance, and exactly the caliber of motorcycle our buyers expect to see at Race Retro.” Bidding will take place on Sunday 22 February, both in person at Race Retro and online. Prospective bidders are encouraged to register to bid in advance.

The factory Aprilia RS-GP20 raced by Espargaro during the 2020 MotoGP season. Photo courtesy Iconic Auctioneers

ABOUT ICONIC AUCTIONEERS:

Iconic Auctioneers was founded in 2011 (originally as Silverstone Auctions) and rebranded in August 2023. As a world-class, specialist auction house, it handles the sale of classic, competition and modern supercars, plus an extensive range of collectors’ vehicles, historic motorcycles and automobilia. Among the UK’s leading auction houses, Iconic Auctioneers holds exclusive automotive auction rights at high-profile events including The NEC Classic Motor Show, The BRDC Classic, Supercar Fest, Race Retro and The Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show at the NEC.

It also oversees private sales and monthly timed online auctions. Dedicated to sourcing exceptional vehicles and connecting them with the right buyers worldwide, Iconic Auctioneers secured 29 world records and four UK records in 2025. In October 2024, the company acquired Classic Car Auctions Ltd (CCA),which now operates under the Iconic Auctioneers umbrella to manage both Iconic Sales and Classic Sales. Confirmed as the UK market leader for collectable cars by sales in 2025, Iconic Auctioneers has now held more than 150 auctions, sold over 12,000 cars and motorcycles, and achieved £34.9 million in car sales during 2025 alone, contributing to more than £400 million in total sales since its founding. With clients in more than 30 countries, the business continues to expand its international profile.

TrackAddix: 2026 Track Packs Now Available

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 25, 2025

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TrackAddix: 2026 Track Packs Now Available

The big annual holiday track pack sale is still going on – now extended through end of year, December 31st.

It’s time! The eagerly anticipated, annual holiday track pack sale!

BY POPULAR DEMAND – THE SALE HAS BEEN EXTENDED PAST CHRISTMAS – NOW ENDING AT MIDNIGHT ON NEW YEAR’S EVE!

All 2026 TrackAddix Track Packs are ON SALE through YEAR-END! Save 10% OFF the already-discounted TrackPack prices!

We greatly appreciate our TrackAddix “Regulars” who plan their riding season around our events, and the TrackPack discount program is designed just for YOU! Taking advantage of this additional 10% off on your Track Packs during the holiday promotion is always the BEST deal of the season!

Click the SHOP NOW button below to select the TrackPack you want, and then check out on the web site and the ADDITIONAL 10% OFFHoliday discount will be applied once you reach the CHECKOUT page! (The discount will NOT show until you reach the CHECKOUT page!)

PLUS EXCITING NEWS! – We have an all-new CUSTOMER REWARDS program on TrackAddix.com that YOU can take advantage us now as a TrackAddix rider! The “MotoBux” program allows you to earn rewards points on all of your purchases, which you can redeem for $$ DISCOUNTS on Riding Gear and Accessory purchases on our NEWLY-EXPANDED eCommerce offerings on the TrackAddix.com website! We have added a TON of the best riding gear to our website offerings recently, including things like Arai, Shoei and HJC helmets, RS Taichi suits and gloves, Five and Alpinestars gloves and other gear, and MUCH more! We’re currently working on adding a whole pile of track motorcycle accessories to the mix as well, not much out there yet, but if you let us know what you’re looking for that you’d like to spend your MotoBux Rewards on we will get it added just for you!

SEE ALL OF THE DETAILS ON MOTOBUX REWARDS HERE:
MotoBux Rewards for YOU!

SHOP NOW

2026 EVENT INFORMATION:

For 2026, we’ll have the TrackAddix GP race series again with the same race classes, the New Rider’s School on Saturdays, etc.

We’ll also be continuing the Saturday night “Happy Hour”!

2026 TrackAddix Track Day Schedule – MPH

Apr 25/26 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

May 30/31 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

June 27/28 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

July 25/26 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

August 15/16 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

September 19/20 – MPH Full Weekend + School + Races

2026 Event Formats:

FULL WEEKEND EVENTS:

SATURDAY “Two Session” Events (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. & RACES 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

SUNDAY “Open Session” Events (9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

Watch for the TrackAddix GP 2026 Rulebook coming early in the year!

Mecum Auction: A Wish List Of The Cool, Rare And Desirable

Michael Gougis

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December 25, 2025

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Mecum Auction: A Wish List Of The Cool, Rare And Desirable

Another Christmas where Santa has over-promised and under-delivered? Despite all of the heavy hints you’d dropped, you knew it was going to be tough, as there were no motorcycle-sized wrapped packages under the tree, in the garage, or stashed at a friend’s home (and you’ve spent the past month checking). Well, there’s still a way to get the bike you always wanted. Empty out the savings account and head for Las Vegas, where many amazing motorcycles are on auction at the 35th annual Vintage & Antique Motorcycle Auction. Conducted by Mecum Auctions, the event is slated for January 27-31 at South Point Hotel & Casino, and approximately 2,000 bikes are expected to cross the auction block.

A 1966 Harley-Davidson Panhead Captain America Replica. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

Included are bikes that are just straight-up, unfiltered fantasy fuel. The very first bike on the list (as of Christmas Day, 2025) is a 1966 Harley-Davidson Panhead Captain America Replica dripping with chrome and infused with upgrades. Talk about a cultural touchstone! For the sportbike enthusiast, the list is a time sink, a black hole where hours go while perusing, reminiscing and thinking maybe, just maybe …

1977 Ducati 900SS. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

For example, the second bike on the list is a 1977 Ducati 900 SS with a tick over 9,500 miles on the clock. The motorcycle is a three-owner, California-titled example presented in highly original condition, featuring original paint with “nice patina” and accompanied by a report by Ian Falloon, author, historian and restoration authority, that describes it as “an example to be considered as a template for originality.” It is powered by an air-cooled 864cc V-Twin engine with Dell’Orto carburetors and a kick start, and has been mechanically refreshed and technically gone through, including engine refurbishment, brakes and electrics.

1974 Ducati 750SS racebike. Photo courtesy Mecum Auctions.

Two items later, there’s a 1974 Desmo 750SS “Green Frame” that was raced in the Formula 750 Spanish Championship and has zero miles since its refurbishment.

Aero development is the major talking point in MotoGP right now, but engineers and racers were experimenting in this area decades ago. Up for auction is a 1957 Mondial Grand Prix racebike with a “dustbin” fairing. The motorcycle comes from the MotoTalbott Museum in Carmel, California, is verified by factory records, and underwent a comprehensive multi-year restoration by Giancarlo Morbidelli that was completed by Roberto Totti. Built by Fratelli Boselli Mondial, it features a 125cc DOHC two-stroke single-cylinder engine designed by Alfredo Drusiani, was raced in period by Sammy Miller and Cecil Sandford—who finished fourth and sixth in the 1957 125cc Championship—and is now set up for static display, having passed through multiple notable owners after being sold by the Mondial factory in the late 1970s. (Dustbin fairings are now banned.)

1982 Kawasaki KR500 Grand Prix racebike. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

There’s a 1982 Kawasaki KR500 racebike with an aluminum monocoque chassis, raced by Kork Ballington, who finished ninth in the 1982 500cc Grand Prix World Championship. The documentation on the machine includes correspondence between iconic restorer George Beale and Bob MacLean, the American who founded World Championship Motorsports and built it into a race-winning 500cc Grand Prix team.

1994 Harley-Davidson VR1000. Photo courtesy Mecum Auctions.

Harley-Davidson once went after the biggest prize in modern U.S. road racing–the AMA Superbike Championship. Up for auction is an example of the machine it fielded–a 1994 Harley-Davidson VR1000. It’s the Harley-Davidson Factory Archive’s No. 3 racebike built for factory rider and team member Pascal Picotte and was assigned to the Harley-Davidson Factory archives in November 2006 before being purchased by the Estenson Vintage Collection in January 2023. It is a factory road racer powered by a 1000cc water-cooled, off-set 60-degree V-Twin with a six-speed transmission and chain drive, featuring an orange-and-black livery.

1985 Yamaha RZ500. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

A 1985 Yamaha RZ500 up for auction is a Canadian-market example currently titled and registered in Arizona. Powered by a 499cc two-stroke V-4 with a six-speed transmission, it is a bit of a dream machine for those who remember this era of Grand Prix racing fondly. It is also an illustration of how far motorcycle technology has advanced, for it is rated at 88 horsepower. Every 600cc-class sportbike on the market today will make significantly more horsepower and weigh only slightly more. But for those who romanticize the two-stroke era, this bike was a way to own the closest thing to what the legends of the sport raced.

1986 Suzuki GSXR750 Yoshimura Tornado. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

A 1986 Suzuki GSXR750 Yoshimura Tornado is up for auction. The motorcycle is powered by a 749cc inline four-cylinder engine equipped with a Dyna 2000 race ignition, Mikuni flatslide carburetors, and a Yoshimura exhaust system. It features extensive race-spec components including Yoshimura Tornado carbon fiber bodywork, a rare rear-mounted supplemental oil cooler, six-piston race front brake calipers with a Brembo master cylinder, and fully adjustable race suspension.

A 1975 Kawasaki 900 Rickman. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

Back in the day, mating a Japanese engine to a custom race chassis was the recipe for success. On the block will be a 1975 Kawasaki 900 Rickman. The motorcycle is a limited-production Rickman café racer based on the Kawasaki Z1 and is powered by a 903cc DOHC inline four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed gearbox and chain final drive. It features a green Rickman CR fairing with black stripes, matching Grand Prix tank, black solo seat with custom leather cover, Daytona-style tail section, clip-on handlebars, electric start, polished suspension and wheels, front and rear disc brakes, and a chrome 4-into-4 exhaust with Hooker silencers. And there’s no reserve!

A 1987 Honda VFR400R NC24. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

And also back in the day, for some manufacturers, small-bore sportbikes were anything but entry-level machines. Up for auction is a 1987 Honda VFR400R NC24. Honda’s second-generation VFR400, produced from 1987–1988, was the first production Honda model to use the ELF-designed Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm and features updated six-spoke front and eight-spoke rear wheels. The 59 bhp, 399cc, DOHC V-4 with a six-speed gearbox is finished in RC30-themed livery.

1988 Pulse Autocycle. Photo by Mecum Auctions.

There are choppers, bobbers, dirtbikes, minibikes, dirt trackers, and even something called a Pulse Autocycle that looks like a landborne private plane, complete with remote-operated canopy.

And perhaps the auction might pose a danger to the savings account. But the auction list itself is a danger, as it poses the potential to eat away hours while you look at cool motorcycles. You have been warned.

To visit the auction site, click here.

Ducati Will Preview Its 2026 MotoGP Season in Madonna di Campiglio

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 24, 2025

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Ducati Will Preview Its 2026 MotoGP Season in Madonna di Campiglio

The new Ducati Desmosedici GP bikes will be unveiled in the Dolomites – on January 19th – with Marc Márquez, Francesco Bagnaia, and the entire team management.

Bologna – The 2026 of the Ducati Lenovo Team, the year celebrating Ducati’s centenary, begins in the spirit of tradition. As has been since 2023, Madonna di Campiglio will host Campioni In Pista from January 18 to 20, the event that will officially launch the upcoming MotoGP season of the Borgo Panigale based team.

The event is set in the stunning natural scenario of the Dolomites, a location that has been Audi’s partner for over 10 years, for three days of fun, sport, and the unveiling of the new Ducati Desmosedici GP bikes on January 19th at 11.00 am. Among the attendees are the reigning World Champion Marc Márquez and the two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia, along with Claudio Domenicali (Ducati CEO), Luigi Dall’Igna (Ducati Corse General Manager), Mauro Grassilli (Ducati Corse Sporting Director), Davide Barana (Ducati Corse Technical Director), and Davide Tardozzi (Ducati Lenovo Team Manager).

Mauro Grassilli (Ducati Corse Sporting Director). Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo Team.

Mauro Grassilli (Ducati Corse Sporting Director):
“Madonna di Campiglio is a wonderful location – not only for its natural beauty, but also for its ski venues – with which Ducati Corse has built a deep friendship over the years. I’m pleased to confirm that, in 2026, the Ducati Lenovo Team season presentation, together with Marc, Pecco, Claudio, Gigi, and all our partners, will be held again in the Dolomites with a three-day event dedicated to motorsports, the local area, and friendliness”.

Supercross: Suzuki Charges Into 2026 With Star-studded Lineup

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 23, 2025

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Supercross: Suzuki Charges Into 2026 With Star-studded Lineup

Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC and Pipes Motorsports Group are thrilled to unveil their official lineup for the 2026 Supercross season, fielding a trio of elite athletes including Daytona winner Ken Roczen, reigning World Supercross SX1 Champion Jason Anderson, and Colt Nichols—each competing aboard the Suzuki RM-Z450.

With three of the sport’s most accomplished and recognizable riders leading the program, Suzuki heads into the 2026 Supercross season with strong momentum and championship-level aspirations. Building on Roczen’s impressive performances throughout 2025 and in the World Supercross Championship, along with Anderson’s newly secured 2025 World Supercross title, 2026 represents a pivotal year as Suzuki lines up with a proven, competitive roster in the premier class.

Ken Roczen returns to the Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki team for his fourth season on the team and he takes on a new role as Global Brand Ambassador for Suzuki. Roczen has had an impressive run on the Suzuki RM-Z450 including 19 podium finishes, a thrilling victory at Daytona, and two overall wins in the 2025 FIM World Supercross Championship, dominating the Buenos Aires opener winning all three main events.

Jason Anderson (21), Colt Nichols (45) and Ken Roczen (94). Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.

“I am so happy and extremely excited to start the 2026 season with the PMG group, the people that I’ve been with for the last four years, and of course the partnership with Suzuki” said Roczen. “I think we have a great motorcycle and we have been able to keep making it better and better. I’ve been having a lot of fun practicing on and racing the RM-Z450.”

“We’ve been doing really well lately and I’m looking forward to carrying some of that momentum into the 2026 season. I’m excited to get it going and we have definitely done our work and now it’s time to have some fun and see where we stack up against the competition.”

New to the team for 2026, but not new to the brand, Suzuki is pleased to welcome Jason Anderson back to Suzuki on the Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance RM-Z450.

Anderson, the 2018 AMA Supercross 450SX Champion who began his career as a Team Suzuki amateur in 2003, brings a proven blend of experience and raw talent to the team—and has already showcased his exceptional speed aboard the RM-Z450 winning the 2025 FIM World Supercross Championship for Suzuki.

“I’m excited to get 2026 going with Suzuki again, and have been working really hard with the team to get ready to be on the podium!” said Jason Anderson.

Newly crowned World Supercross Champion Jason Anderson joins Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance Suzuki for the 2026 Supercross season. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.

Completing the 2026 Suzuki Supercross lineup is proven performer Colt Nichols. Colt had a strong season in 2025 aboard the Suzuki RM-Z450 and is looking forward to racing at the highest level with the Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance team.

Nichols delivered strong and consistent performances throughout the Supercross season and is already showing momentum heading into 2026, earning an overall podium finish aboard his Suzuki RM-Z450 at the final round of the World Supercross Championship during the South African GP in Cape Town.

Colt Nichols enters the 2026 Supercross season with Suzuki following a productive offseason and strong performances in WSX. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.

“I’m very excited to be back with the HEP Twisted Tea Suzuki team for 2026,” commented Nichols. “We have a fun team and I really enjoyed working and being around all of these guys. Looking forward to leveling up this year and couldn’t think of a better group to do it with”

Chris Wheeler, Motorsports Manager from Suzuki confirmed the positive mood of the team heading into the 2026 season: “There’s very good energy within our group heading into the 2026 Supercross season. We have a great mix of talent, perspectives, and experience that continues to push the program forward each year. The team is fun, but serious and focused, and we’re seeing improvement across the board—from technical development to communication—which makes the momentum around this program exciting and infectious.”

A multi-time championship winner, Larry Brooks continues to provide a wealth of experience and proven leadership to the program. His talent for matching rider strengths with exceptional Suzuki performance has been critical in the team’s preparation for the 2026 season.

“2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the HEP Suzuki team. We’re thrilled to welcome back Ken Roczen and Colt Nichols, and excited to add Jason Anderson to our team roster,” said Brooks. “That gives us three incredibly strong racers heading into the 2026 Supercross season. As a team, we’re united by a shared goal: giving our absolute best and having fun while doing what we love most—racing motorcycles for a living.”

For the 2026 season, Suzuki and Pipes Motorsports Group continue their focused commitment to the premier 450-class championship, reinforcing a clear objective: deliver peak performance and compete at the highest level of Supercross.

The team now turns its attention to the season opener on January 10 at Anaheim Stadium, where fans can expect intense, high-level racing as Roczen, Anderson and Nichols line up aboard the Championship winning Suzuki RM-Z450.

Suzuki remains proud of its deep racing heritage and moves forward with a program built on elite rider talent, experienced leadership, and strong technical expertise. With momentum on its side, the 2026 season promises plenty of excitement, and Suzuki invites fans to follow along for another action-packed year.

For the latest team updates, news, and race insights, visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/Motocross or HEPMotorsports.com.

About Progressive:

Progressive Insurance^® makes it easy to understand, buy and use car insurance, home insurance, and other protection needs. Progressive offers choices so consumers can reach us however it’s most convenient for them — online at progressive.com, by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, via the Progressive mobile app, or in-person with a local agent.

Progressive provides insurance for personal and commercial autos and trucks, motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles, and homes; it is the second largest personal auto insurer in the country, a leading seller of commercial auto, motorcycle, and boat insurance, and one of the top 15 homeowners insurance carriers.

Founded in 1937, Progressive continues its long history of offering shopping tools and services that save customers time and money, like Name Your Price^®, Snapshot^®, and HomeQuote Explorer^®.

The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, trade publicly at NYSE: PGR.

About Suzuki:

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

SportRiderCoaching Announces New Racing Series

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 23, 2025

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SportRiderCoaching Announces New Racing Series

Eagles Canyon Raceway and SportRiderCoaching announce 2-round timetrial and 3-round motorcycle endurance racing series for 2026.

Decatur, TX – Eagles Canyon Raceway and SportRiderCoaching bring motorsports education and excitement to Eagles Canyon members and guests.

The new series features 2-round timetrial and 3-round endurance racing events, encouraging riders to challenge themselves against the clock and fellow competitors.

The 3-round endurance series runs single-bike team endurance and individual bike relay-style racing on lightweight machines under 60 horsepower. Unique innovations to the series lower the barrier to a first competition experience before and at the track.

The timetrial series provides a day of lapping sessions with a qualifying-style leaderboard challenging riders to improve laptimes each session. Trackside video review and coaching is available to accelerate rider improvement, and an introductory focus on competitive techniques offers riders new to competition-style events a welcoming first taste of competitive riding.

Brad Flack, general manager at Eagles Canyon: “We’ve had a productive partnership with SportRiderCoaching developing riders, new members and a vibrant motorcycle community at the track. For our car members, we developed timetrail and race opportunities more member-centric than a typical club race organization but are still genuine competition. We wanted to offer the same for our motorcycle members and guests, creating more opportunity to participate in the sport than just member track days while creating an environment conducive to continued motorsports education and personal engagement.”

Jim Dugger, owner of SportRiderCoaching and SportRiderRacing waves the checkered flag at a recent licensing class mock race. Photo courtesy SportRiderCoaching

Jim Dugger, the owner and operator of SportRiderCoaching adds “I just loved the idea and focus. Many of our riders consider competition as part of their rider journey, but see the cost and commitment required for club-level, sanctioned racing as intimidating. There’s a group of riders looking for that next step but not committed to a full season of competition yet – that’s where we wanted to land with this program. And, at the same time provide an exciting series appealing to the experience racer.”

Major event dates across SportRiderCoaching and SportRiderRacing — all are held at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, TX:

Saturday April 4 – Round #1 Endurance Race Series
Monday April 6 Easter Monday & Drills
Saturday June 13 – Round #2 Endurance Race Series
Sunday June 28 – Round #1 Time Trial Series
Saturday July 18 – Round #3 Endurance Race Series
Monday August 3 – SportRiderCoaching The Perfect Day
Saturday September 5 – Round #2 Time Trial Series
Monday October 12 – SportRiderCoaching The Perfect Day

For more information, including the series rulebook and additional announcements, see www.sportriderracing.com

About Eagles Canyon RACEWAY:

Eagles Canyon Raceway ECR is a Private, World-Class FIA Spec 2.7 Mile Road Course with 15 total turns, over 200 Feet of elevation change and a 2200 FT long back straight.

Eagles Canyon strives to build community and be a playground for motorsports enthusiasts, providing road, rally and kart and corporate development and entertainment facilities in addition to a unique motorsports education and individual growth focus.

About SportRiderCoaching:

SportRiderCoaching provides private, on-track coaching and rider development in a small class, personalized experience. SportRiderCoaching is investing and expanding in 2026, bringing new motorcycle experiences to market under the brands AdventureRiderCoaching and SportRiderRacing.

Champ School: Unlock Pro Cornering With Real Data

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 23, 2025

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Champ School: Unlock Pro Cornering With Real Data

Every rider has watched a professional racer fly through a corner and wondered:

How do they carry so much speed, make it look effortless, and rarely fall down?

The answer isn’t bravery. It isn’t talent. It’s technique. Specifically, using the controls with intention, as the motorcycle was engineered, for maximum grip and safety.

Let’s look at some date from Robertino “Tino” Pietri. Tino is a Moto2, European Superbike and AMA Superbike veteran whose résumé includes Latin American championships, factory test-rider roles, and grid spots beside riders like Marc Márquez. When manufacturers want to understand how a performance motorcycle should behave at the limit, they hire Tino to find out. Not the guy at bike night or your uncle bob.

Why does that matter to you?

Because the closer we ride like Tino, the better the motorcycle works—and the safer we are. Physics doesn’t care if you’re on the Moto2 grid or riding to work. The principles are the same.

To understand how a true professional rides, we analyzed his data from a “spirited” lap on a Yamaha MT-10 with Bridgestone DOT street tires, through Turn 8 at Carolina Motorsports Park.

Turn 8 is a corner that starts downhill, compresses into a valley, rises into positive camber, then flattens out on exit to spit you onto a 140-mph straight. What happens in these few seconds explains why elite riders are consistently safer and faster than everyone else.

This is data from an AIM Solo2 DL and AIM Analog Can Converter pulling data from the OEM Yamaha ECU and a host of other sensors. We use AIM Data Acquisition systems to confirm and quantify everything we are doing on the motorcycle and the techniques we put in the curriculum.

The Entry: A Decision Made at 143 mph

Approaching Turn 8, Tino is flat-out at roughly 143 mph. When his eyes and brain decide it’s time to slow, he gets nervous, but there is no hesitation, and there is no coasting. The throttle closes to the brake lever. Almost simultaneously.

The First Touch: Load the tire before we work the tire.

A professional does not grab a handful of brake. Tino gives the lever a fraction of a second to allow the fork to collapse and the tire to load. This is the moment where grip is built so massive stopping force can be used safely.

Then the brake pressure ramps up sharply.

Why so much pressure early? Because we can use more brake pressure when the wheels are spinning fastest, and they possess the most gyroscopic energy. Slowing aggressively upfront buys everything a rider will need later: margin, time, and grip.

Trail Braking: The Art That Separates the Good From the Great

Many riders imagine trail braking as a delicate fade: a perfect, smooth taper from heavy to light. But Tino’s data shows the truth—it’s alive. The brake trace wavers with dozens of micro-adjustments because the best riders are constantly updating their speed based on vision, feel, and available grip.

This is the essence of trail braking:

• The motorcycle needs weight on the front tire to steer

• The front brake is the most accurate tool to place weight forward.

• Brake pressure is infinitely adjustable.

• As lean angle increases and cornering forces rise, brake pressure is traded for centripetal load.

• Load or grip is allocated with purpose.

Trail braking is not simply “braking late.” It’s braking correctly, using the lever to create grip, geometry, steering response, and speed.

This process continues until one crucial moment: the slowest point of the corner.

This is a data overlay from the AIM Solo2 DL GPS-based lap timer showing throttle position through turn 8 at Carolina Motorsports Park.

The Slowest Point: The Moment Everything Happens

Every corner has a slowest point. The key to the sport is to get to the slowest point as quickly as possible, respect it, and then get away from it as quickly as possible. We can exchange “quickly” with the most control. The slowest point is the hinge the entire corner rotates around. It is the moment when the bike is at:

• Neutral throttle

• Maximum lean

• Minimum speed

• Maximum direction change

• Zero brake pressure

• Zero acceleration

Tino’s goal is to use the brakes to get to the slowest point at the exact speed and lean angle he is comfortable with for the corners radius, lean angle, and level of grip. Tino does a pretty good job and the brake release happens at 67 mph, and the true slowest point arrives at 62 mph a heartbeat later.

This window is only about two seconds long in Turn 8, but it is everything.

This is where the motorcycle must be perfectly balanced. Just enough throttle to maintain the chosen radius, known as maintenance or neutral throttle.

Neutral throttle is not passive. It’s an active, deliberate state where the rider and bike agree on radius, trajectory, and grip allocation. It is the calm between two storms: deceleration and acceleration. Professionals do not rush this moment.

Yamaha Champion Riding School instructor. Photo courtesy ChampSchool

The Exit: The fun part.

If Tino could accelerate early he would. In fact, in the data, we can see that he starts to accelerate, but quickly sees that its too early and he will run wide and has to correct. Only when Tino can see his exit and can take away lean angle, can he truly accelerate. When this happens, he moves from neutrality to aggression. The throttle rises from 23% to 100% in under a second and he launches off the corner. If the tire spins in this moment, he is already applying the cure to the problem by taking away lean angle.

This is the best part of riding a motorcycle and the moment Tino has been waiting for since he closed the throttle seven seconds ago.

One Technique, Scaled to Every Environment

What’s fascinating about this data is not the speed—it’s the universality.

If Tino were riding in the rain, at night, on cold tires, on a public road, on a touring bike, the shape of this graph would be identical. Only the magnitudes would change. Less brake pressure, less lean angle, and less throttle…..and less speed.

The process remains:

• Brake when we get nervous.

• Stay on the brake until happy with speed AND direction.

• Transition to neutral throttle through the slowest point.

• Accelerate only when we can see our exit and take away lean angle.

-Chip Spalding

Yamaha Champion Riding School instructor Robertino Pietri. Photo courtesy ChampSchool

Robertino Pietri is one of the most talented riders on the planet, and an amazing human. We are proud to have him on our team.

New Jersey Motorsports Park – Thunderbolt. Photo courtesy ChampSchool

September 8–9, 2026 — New Jersey Motorsports Park – Thunderbolt

For years, students have asked us to bring a ChampGrad program to NJMP. With thousands of ChampSchool alumni in the region, demand has never been higher—and now it’s happening.

This new 4:1 ChampGrad format is an advanced continuation of the 2-Day ChampSchool, designed exclusively for graduates who want deeper understanding, sharper technique, and more personalized coaching.

What to Expect:

4:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Expanded curriculum: traction, geometry, load management, direction control, and more
Classroom + on-track format
Ride your own bike or rent a Yamaha
Video review, targeted drills, and deeper technical breakdowns
Ideal for riders wanting to refine technique, improve consistency, and elevate pace safely

This will be one of our most in-demand events of the year—please register early if NJMP is your home track.

We will have a complete selection of Yamaha motorcycles and the world’s best safety gear from Dainese and Arai for a complete “arrive and ride” option.

All of our in-person schools come with complimentary access to our Online Champ U: Core Curriculum.

For questions, email us anytime at [email protected]

December 5–6, 2026 — Las Vegas Motor Speedway – Las Vegas, NV

We are excited to return to Nevada with a full 2-Day ChampSchool at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, one of the most rider-friendly facilities in the country.

This is our complete curriculum—the same program used by MotoAmerica pros, factory test riders, the U.S. Marine Corps, and thousands of street riders looking to ride with more control and less risk.

What’s Included:

Full 2-Day ChampSchool curriculum
4:1 coaching ratio
Yamaha motorcycle rentals available (R7, R3, MT-07, MT-09, etc.)
Dainese gear rentals
Video and data-based feedback
Challenging, fun track layout with generous run-off and great sightlines

December weather in Las Vegas is ideal for riding—this event doubles as the perfect winter training camp and destination trip.

We will have a complete selection of Yamaha motorcycles and the world’s best safety gear from Dainese and Arai for a complete “arrive and ride” option.

All of our in-person schools come with complimentary access to our Online Champ U: Core Curriculum.

For questions, email us anytime at [email protected]

Nathan Bettencourt Steps Onto the World Stage

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 23, 2025

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Nathan Bettencourt Steps Onto the World Stage

Nathan Bettencourt of Bettencourt Racing is ready to take his next big step in motorcycle racing. After closing out the 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup season with his strongest finish yet—a 3rd place podium in the final race of the last round, and 6th overall in the championship—Bettencourt is setting his sights on the international stage.

The season was marked by consistency and resilience, with zero DNFs thanks to the dedication of his crew. Nathan credits his success to the unwavering support of his team:

Adam Kells, owner of AK Race Fab and team crew chief; Kevin Allen, owner of Apex; and Kevin Wimble.

He also expressed gratitude to his sponsors, including Woodcraft, Arai Helmets, Penguin Racing School, Apex, Akracefab, Genesis Utilities, Dunlop, Rev’it, Sidi, 64° Degrees and Innovative Contracting Services, whose backing made the season possible.

Bettencourt Racing proudly announces Nathan’s next chapter: joining the FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup for the 2026 season. The championship begins at Balaton Park, Hungary, marking Nathan’s first full campaign on the global stage. Nathan reflected on his experience: “I did a wildcard round at Estoril in October, and it was a lot of learning and a lot of fun. I’m excited for the opportunity to do the full season.”

Beyond the World Cup, Nathan will also compete in select rounds of the NEMRR series at Loudon, NH, keeping his competitive edge sharp on home soil. In addition, he is exploring opportunities to enter wildcard rounds with the MotoAmerica Talent Cup series, continuing his connection to the championship where he first made his mark.

Suzuki Int. Series: Whanganui Streets Set for Spectacular Finale

Mathilde Gasnier

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December 22, 2025

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Suzuki Int. Series: Whanganui Streets Set for Spectacular Finale

DECEMBER 22, 2025: The Christmas rush should be over by December 25, but that doesn’t mean things will really be slowing down at all for many hundreds of people.

In fact, life will be speeding up considerably for New Zealand’s elite motorcycle racers, their followers and thousands of devoted bike enthusiasts.

Yes, we can expect the festive magic to roll on for at least another 24 hours after Christmas as Whanganui stages its traditional Boxing Day motorcycle race meeting, the Suzuki International Series’ third and final round on the city’s world-famous Cemetery Circuit.

We can just hope that the police are looking the other way on Friday when motorbike riders take over the public streets of Whanganui.

Racers are expected to hare down Ridgeway St, along Wilson St, turn into Taupo Quay and Heads Rd, before looping around Guyton St and back into Ridgeway again, all of it at eye-watering speeds, often in excess of 200km/h.

There is no doubt that these riders will ignore stop signals, fail to give way and, most probably, swerve across the centre line at every opportunity.

And there are very few places in the world where this can happen, Whanganui being transformed again this year to host the traditional Suzuki International Series finale, a jam-packed day of racing around the city’s famous Cemetery Circuit.

For more than half a century, since 1951 in fact, the barriers have been put up for this world-renowned motorcycle “street fight”, with straw bales positioned and spectator fencing laid out along the gutters of Whanganui’s public streets.

The 2025 edition of the always-popular Suzuki International Series kicked off at the Taupo International Motorsport Park on the first weekend in December and round two was staged at Manfeild, in Feilding, just a week later.

All that remains now for the series to wrap up is for the world-renowned Cemetery Circuit races to go ahead on Boxing Day, the massive annual post-Christmas festival of speed always a popular final blow-out before New Year celebrations begin.

The racing on the twists and turns of Whanganui’s public streets – with part of the circuit actually zig-zagging the riders past the Suzuki New Zealand headquarters on Heads Road – attracts worldwide interest every year, especially since this is one of the very few motorcycle street fights still being run anywhere in the world.

And, yes, the course does take the speeding riders past headstones in the inner-city graveyard, not to mention the competitors zooming close to road-side curbs, across white-painted lines, over railway lines and near to traffic islands. It takes your breath away just to think about it, although serious safety measures are in place.

Bay of Plenty’s reigning New Zealand superbike champion Mitch Rees leads the way in the premier class once again this year and he will take some beating.

However, while the Whakatane man tops the 1000cc formula one/superbike class, he may be as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs on Friday when he calculates the risks and rewards in his attempt to achieve an historic five-in-a-row win streak on Boxing Day.

Mitch Rees previously won the formula one class overall in the Suzuki International Series in 2020, 2022, 2023 and last Christmas too (the series was not run in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic).

Meanwhile, the Robert Holden Memorial (RHM) feature race will no doubt be one of the highlights of Whanganui’s finale on the Cemetery Circuit.

It is a prestigious race that was won by Mitch Rees in 2022, 2023 and 2024, by his late brother Damon Rees in 2020 and by their father Tony Rees on seven occasions (between 1990 and 2016).

It could have been another Rees family battle at the front this year too, with 58-year-old “elder statesman” Tony Rees chasing hard early on in the 2025 series, until his unfortunate crash at Manfeild less than two weeks ago sent him to the sidelines.

With a broken ankle, Tony Rees has declared he is not going to line up in Whanganui on Friday.

“I haven’t had too many broken bones over the years,” said a philosophical Tony Rees this week. “But when you’re pushing hard, sometimes it goes wrong. Even the best riders in the world can crash.”

Instead, it will likely be Rogan Chandler who poses the greatest threat to Mitch Rees on Boxing Day, the Upper Hutt man just three points behind Mitch Rees as they head onto the track for the first time on Friday morning.

All the other various classes too will provide nail-biting excitement, the racing always close around the Cemetery Circuit, while it’s worth noting that Whanganui crews will be out in force in the formula one, formula two and Pre-82 classic sidecars classes.

Rounds one and two, at Taupo and Manfeild respectively, gave bike fans, enthusiasts, supporters, sponsors plenty to salivate over and they’ve shown how highly they value and love the competition that they’ve shown up in great numbers to watch it live and personal.

“It’s been a fantastic series so far, with great racing throughout the classes,” said Suzuki International Series organiser Allan ‘Flea’ Willacy.

“The competition has been good. The weather’s been perfect and we’ve seen great crowds. The local heroes, and the overseas competitors too, have not let us down and they’ve put on a great show.

“We’re all looking forward now to the final round.”

Leaders after two rounds in the 2025 Suzuki International Series are: Whakatane’s Mitch Rees (formula one); Auckland’s Cameron Leslie (formula two/supersport 600); Silverdale’s Tyler King (formula three); Silverdale’s Tyler King (supersport 300); Paraparaumu’s Richard Markham-Barrett (formula sport, senior, over-600cc); Feilding’s Jordan Walters (formula sport, junior, up to 600cc); Auckland’s Paul Pavletich (Pre 89 post classics, senior, over-600cc); Auckland’s Scott Findlay (Pre 89, post classics junior, under-600cc); Upper Hutt’s Keiran Mair (Pre 95, post classics senior, over-600cc); Te Awanga’s Eddie Kattenberg (Pre 95, post classics junior, under-600cc); Tokomaru’s Barry Smith/Whanganui’s Louise Blythe and Panmure’s Adam Unsworth/Whanganui’s Bryce Rose (F1 sidecars) first equal; Whanganui’s Tracey Bryan & Jo Franzen (F2 sidecars); Whanganui’s Richie Dibben (supermoto).

The Suzuki International Series is supported by Suzuki New Zealand, Mondiale VGL, Auto Super Shoppe Tawa, Givi, I-Tools, Bridgestone tyres, Metzeler tyres, Sharp As Linehaul Ltd Whanganui, TSS Motorcycles, Ipone, Inferno Design & Digital, Kiwibike Motorcycle Insurance Specialists, Shark, Barred Up Scaffolding, The Dentists.

DATES FOR 2025 SUZUKI INTERNATIONAL SERIES

Round 1, Taupo, Dec 6-7;
Round 2, Manfeild, Feilding, Dec 13-14;
Round 3, Whanganui’s Cemetery Circuit, Dec 26.

New N2 Racing Assn. Starts With 6-Hour Endurance At VIR

December 26, 2025

BlakeSM — Blake Davis on the 2024 title-winning Alpha Omega/Roller Die Yamaha YZF-R1 endurance bike at Barber Motorsports Park, 2024. Highside Photo.