MotoGP: Red Bull KTM Officially Introduces 2024 Team (Includes Video)

David Swarts

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February 12, 2024

MotoGP: Red Bull KTM Officially Introduces 2024 Team (Includes Video)

Editorial Note: Scroll down to watch the video.

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING UNVEILED AND SET FOR 2024 MOTOGP™

2024 MotoGP news

Covers off and sights narrowed: 2024 will represent KTM’s eighth year on the MotoGP grid and there have been plenty of milestones among the mileage. Brad Binder, Jack Miller, the full Red Bull KTM Factory Racing squad, the testing crew and engineering operation back in Austria are primed for another stellar campaign in which the sporting targets lie in the stats.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing show off 2024 liveries on the eve of a season in which they aim to better 4th in the Riders Championship, 2nd in the Constructors standings and 4th in the Teams rankings, all achieved in 2023

KTM have seven MotoGP Grand Prix wins and two Sprint victories since 2017, obtained with two different riders. The factory has significant Grand Prix presence throughout the categories with the MotoGP squad at the top of the pyramid consisting of: Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, Moto3™ and Moto2™

2024 is 28-year-old Brad Binder’s fifth year in the MotoGP mix and with the KTM RC16 and his tenth with Red Bull KTM through the classes. The South African has two wins (Czech Republic and Austria) and two Sprint victories (Argentina and Spain) and notched eight podiums in 2023

2024 is 29-year-old Jack Miller’s tenth MotoGP season, and his third Grand Prix year in Red Bull KTM colors. The Australian has three career wins and grabbed a podium result in his maiden KTM term during 2023

The first of 21 rounds begins with the trip to the Lusail International Circuit for the Grand Prix of Qatar from March 8-10

The distinctive Red Bull KTM RC16s will be rattling lap records in the hands of Brad Binder and Jack Miller for the second year in a row. The fastest official motorcycle in the prestigious FIM World Championship – now 75 years in existence and watched by almost three million fans at the circuits in 2023 – will carry the latest engineering hardware, software and concepts from KTM Motorsports HQ and the rest of the factory structure.

Binder has worked his way from 11th to 6th to 4th in almost half a decade and is now poised for even bigger prizes as one of the most highly rated riders on the 22-man grid. Miller also has his own personal goals and wants a top three championship slot and more after adapting rapidly to the RC16 at the outset of 2023.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have already completed the opening test of the short pre-season period and will now head to Qatar and the Lusail International Circuit this week for the final two-day preparation sessions ahead of round one. Around this time and throughout 2024 the comprehensive testing outfit of Dani Pedrosa, Pol Espargaro, Jonas Folger and Mika Kallio and their respective staff will be making significant and key contributions to the MotoGP effort.

The race calendar will consist of 21 Grands Prix and 42 races as MotoGP will again engage the popular Saturday Sprint format at every round.

Brad Binder. Photo by Philip Platzer, courtesy Red Bull KTM Factory Racing.

Brad Binder: “The trajectory is on its way up. 11th, 6th, 6th and 4th so, yeah, I have no doubt we are going to do better than 4th. Last season was great at times and difficult at other moments. I felt like we had more in the pocket. We were much more competitive each weekend and always around the podium battle. This season is where we can make the difference. It’s awesome to be starting 2024 for real. It’s going to be my tenth season racing for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and it’s been an amazing journey. we have always stuck together and always had the same goal in mind. I think that we have always fit really well together, and I am really happy where I am. The only thing left is to try and finish off the job in MotoGP.”

Jack Miller. Photo by Philip Platzer, courtesy Red Bull KTM Factory Racing.

Jack Miller: “2023 was a year of learning and of growth for me as a person and as a rider. Towards the back half of the season we really got comfortable with the bike and were able to start challenging for positions where we needed to be. In KTM, and my dealings especially in the racing department, when they find something or find a pathway – new ideas, better ideas and strategies – then they go all -in on to have them on the track as soon as possible. Having that power and that motivation and that backing from the company is awesome as a rider. I didn’t get to achieve all the wishes I wanted in 2023. I have a whole new list of wishes for 2024.”

Francesco Guidotti, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “2023 was a good year. Very satisfying and where we grew quite a lot. We are pretty happy with how the riders and the bike improved. The approach for 2024 is easy: we have to move ahead with the growth we started last season. There will be areas where we still have plenty of room to increase our performance but in general the project is very balanced, so we just need to push when we know it is time to do it. I can’t wait to start the season and get to the first race because that is where we deliver. It’s when the speaking stops and the real action starts. No excuses. No matter what we have said or done during the winter, it is time to race.”

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “I feel that the package is very complete now and we have all the right people in the right positions and also the rider line-up makes me very happy. Everybody could grow over these last years. We’ve had these MotoGP wins and reached a lot last season: 4th in the championship, 2nd in the Constructors but, of course, our big target, our big dream, is pushing for the world championship and I feel in 2024 we are ready to do so. In general, we have now a great calendar and logistics-wise it is quite demanding for everybody; mechanics, riders, staff, team, everybody but we love racing so if you give us one more race then we will enjoy it every time. We know when it is time to ‘go’ and when it is time to shine. Racing is what drives us every morning to give our best; to be on the racetrack, be with the public, and that’s what the riders like and that’s why I think we are really prepared for ’24.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, Member of the Executive Board: “Finishing 2nd in the Constructors championship last year is for sure something we can be proud of, but the important thing is that we could close the gap significantly to the competition. I think, next to the motorcycle, the biggest progress we have made is in the team structure. We added good people to the ones we already had, and the team has come together very well. A lot of it is about having the right people in the factory and the right people at the racetrack and the communication between them is super-important and this is where we made a big, big step. We are committed to MotoGP as much as we were on day one. We won’t give up until we have grabbed this title because this is something that we want to have, that we want to achieve and that we will achieve in time. MotoGP is the highest class in motorcycle racing and because KTM is a sport motorcycle brand we gain a lot of knowledge in MotoGP that we can convert into our serial motorcycle development so there is a close linkage. MotoGP is a very important testbench and development center for us and the media and brand value is huge.”

WorldSBK: Sunset Races Planned For Portuguese Round

David Swarts

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February 12, 2024

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WorldSBK: Sunset Races Planned For Portuguese Round

2024 Pirelli Portuguese Round a guaranteed summer hit with WorldSBK sunset races

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship will make history with a unique and unprecedented event when the seventh round of the 2024 season descends upon the picturesque Autódromo Internacional do Algarve from August 9th to 11th.

Breaking away from the traditional format, this round promises an extraordinary experience for riders, teams, and the thousands of passionate fans who will gather at the circuit for a weekend like no other. The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve is meticulously preparing a special ‘Summer Fest’ that goes beyond thrilling track action.

The event will feature ‘Food Court’ areas, music concerts, parade lap autograph sessions, and an unprecedented ‘track tour’ in an open bus, providing fans with an immersive and entertaining experience throughout the afternoon. This will amplify the WorldSBK weekend experience, fostering a festival atmosphere that joyfully celebrates the essence of motorcycle racing.

To accommodate the plethora of additional activities, a unique schedule will be implemented for this round. WorldSBK Race 1 and Race 2 will take place on Saturday and Sunday at 19.00 Local Time / 20.00 CET, allowing spectators to witness the exhilarating races against the backdrop of the stunning Portuguese sunset.

Click here for the full Pirelli Portuguese Round schedule

The overall track action will span from 12.00 to sundown on all three days of the round, ensuring fans have ample time to enjoy the festivities and immerse themselves in the WorldSBK ‘Summer Fest’ experience.

Tickets for the Pirelli Portuguese Round are available here.

MotoAmerica: Cooper, Hickman Riding Factory-Backed Triumphs In Daytona 200 (Updated)

David Swarts

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February 12, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Cooper, Hickman Riding Factory-Backed Triumphs In Daytona 200 (Updated)

Triumph Returns To Daytona 200 With The PHR Performance Team

13-Time Isle Of Man TT Winner Peter Hickman Leads Two-Rider Team For 82nd Running Of The Daytona 200

The Triumph factory-supported PHR Performance Team will head to the USA in March this year to tackle the Daytona 200, with Peter Hickman and Richard Cooper setting their sights on clinching another victory with Triumph’s Street Triple 765 RS.

Hickman’s PHR Performance Team will be preparing two Street Triple 765 RS bikes in the UK, with the official support of Triumph. Now in its 82nd year, the Daytona 200 runs from March 7-9 at Daytona International Speedway, Florida, USA. The race itself gets underway at 1310h local time on Saturday, March 9.

The 2024 event presents an exciting opportunity for Hickman in particular, to compete at the race he’s long been keen to tackle, whilst also serving as a valuable chance for more track time aboard the Triumph machine that he’ll compete on at the Isle of Man TT.

Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer:

“Triumph is pleased to support Peter Hickman and Richard Cooper in their efforts to bring the Daytona 200 crown back to the UK with the PHR Performance Team. This iconic race holds a special place in the history of Triumph Racing In fact, Brandon Paasch won on the Street Triple 765 in its first outing at Daytona in 2022, and he credits the engine with making the difference when he powered to his dramatic victory. It’s the same three cylinder 765 that forms the basis of the bikes Hickman and Cooper are racing this year.

“This race, along with our entries into Supercross and Motocross, a strong commitment in Supersport and our continued role as the official engine supplier in Moto2™, means that 2024 should be a very exciting year for Triumph Racing.”

Peter Hickman, PHR Performance Team Owner and Rider:

“The Daytona 200 is a race that I’ve not only watched for many years, but also always wanted to compete in. To finally get everything in place to run not only myself but also “Coopes” as the official Triumph entry is absolutely amazing, and I cannot wait! We’re running the same bikes we’ll be running at the Isle of Man TT this year, so it gives us a good platform for extra testing.

“I need to thank a few teams for helping to make all this happen. Triumph Racing, Freedom Road Financial, Faye Ho and the FHO Racing team for not only allowing me to bring my own team to race here but also for supporting us, and of course David Robinson of Bathgate Group. Everyone has made a substantial input to get us ready. I can’t wait to get on track and experience Daytona for the first time. To say I’m excited is an understatement and I know that with the package we have, we will be strong contenders.”

Richard Cooper, PHR Performance Team Rider:

“I am mega excited to be returning to the Daytona 200! The last time I raced here was back in 2008 where I finished fifth in the main race. This year, I’m returning with Triumph and the PHR Performance Team on the Street Triple 765 RS I believe that with this team and this bike, we are capable of achieving top honors!

“It’s a huge effort from everyone in the team to get the bikes, equipment, and personnel over from the UK but with the team we have, I’m confident we’ll be right at the sharp end from the first practice. Looking at the previous results, the Triumph Street Triple has been a great package, winning in ‘22 and delivering a strong pace in ’23. I’m looking forward to meeting and putting on a good show for the fans in March.”

Triumph has a long association with Daytona, tracing its roots back to the factory team victories in 1966 and 1967 for Buddy Elmore and Gary Nixon, respectively. Sensationally, Brandon Paasch won in 2022 on the debut of the Street Triple 765 under the Supersport regulations, using the triple’s superior torque to power out of the last corner and judge his victory dash to perfection, taking the flag by 0.007 seconds.

For more information, please contact: [email protected]

More, from a press release issued by Triumph on February 21:

TRIUMPH RETURNS TO DAYTONA 200 WITH THE PHR PERFORMANCE TEAM

The PHR (Peter Hickman Racing) Performance Team, supported by FreedomRoad Financial, will head to the USA in March this year to tackle the Daytona 200, with racers Peter Hickman and Richard Cooper setting their sights on clinching another victory aboard a Triumph Street Triple 765 RS.

Hickman’s PHR Performance Team will be preparing two Street Triple 765 RS bikes in the UK, with the official support of Triumph. Now in its 82nd year, the Daytona 200 runs on March 9th at the famed Daytona International Speedway with a race start time of 1pm ET.

The 2024 event presents an exciting opportunity for Hickman in particular, to compete at the race he’s long desired to tackle, while also serving as a valuable chance for more track time piloting the Triumph machine that he’ll race at the 2024 Isle of Man TT.

Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer:

“Triumph is pleased to support Peter Hickman and Richard Cooper in their efforts to bring the Daytona 200 crown back to the UK with the PHR Performance Team. This iconic race holds a special place in the history of Triumph Racing. In fact, Brandon Paasch won on the Street Triple 765 in its first outing at Daytona in 2022, and he credits the engine with making the difference when he powered to his dramatic victory. It’s the same three cylinder 765 that forms the basis of the bikes Hickman and Cooper are racing this year. This race, along with our entries into Supercross and Motocross and a strong commitment in Supersport, mean that 2024 should be a very exciting year for Triumph Racing.”

Peter Hickman, PHR Performance Team Owner and Rider:

“The Daytona 200 is a race that I’ve not only watched for many years, but also always wanted to compete in. To finally get everything in place to run not only myself but also “Coopes” as the official Triumph entry is absolutely amazing and I cannot wait! We’re running are the same bikes we’ll be running at the Isle of Man TT this year, so it gives us a good platform for extra testing.

I need to thank a few teams for helping to make all this happen. Triumph Racing, FreedomRoad Financial, Faye Ho and the FHO Racing team for not only allowing me to bring my own team to race here but also for supporting us, and of course David Robinson of Bathgate Group. Everyone has made a substantial input to get us ready. I can’t wait to get on track and experience Daytona for the first time. To say I’m excited is an understatement and I know that with the package we have, we will be strong contenders.”

Richard Cooper, PHR Performance Team Rider:

“I am mega excited to be returning to the Daytona 200! The last time I raced here was back in 2008 where I finished fifth in the main race. This year, I’m returning with Triumph and the PHR Performance Team on the Street Triple 765 RS I believe that with this team and this bike, we are capable of achieving top honors!

It’s a huge effort from everyone in the team to get the bikes, equipment, and personnel over from the UK but with the team we have, I’m confident we’ll be right at the sharp end from the first practice. Looking at the previous results, the Triumph Street Triple has been a great package, winning in ‘22 and delivering a strong pace in ’23. I’m looking forward to meeting and putting on a good show for the fans in March.”

Tom Collins – Managing Director, FreedomRoad Financial:

“We enjoyed back-to-back years of strong performance on the grid while supporting Triumph in the Daytona 200. We’ve been a retail finance partner of Triumph since 2008, making them our longest tenured OEM relationship, so we’re honored to support their racing effort once again at the prestigious Daytona 200. We look forward to seeing how Peter and Richard will perform on what we already know is a Championship bike.”

Triumph has a long association with Daytona, tracing its roots back to the factory team victories in 1966 and 1967 for Buddy Elmore and Gary Nixon respectively. Sensationally, Brandon Paasch won in 2022 on the debut of the Street Triple 765 under the Supersport regulations, using the triple’s superior torque to power out of the last corner and judge his victory dash to perfection, taking the flag by 0.007 seconds.

American Engineer Brian Gillen Leaves MV, Joins Norton Motorcycles

John Ulrich

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February 11, 2024

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American Engineer Brian Gillen Leaves MV, Joins Norton Motorcycles

American Brian Gillen has left his job as R&D Technical Director at MV Agusta Motorcycles after 17 years with the Italian company and has accepted a position as Chief Technical Officer of Norton Motorcycles. He will continue to be based in Italy and will oversee Norton tech centers located in the U.K. and in India, where the current owners of the iconic, formerly British brand are located.

American Engineer Brian Gillen is leaving MV Agusta after 17 years. He's seen here in 2023 with a RUSH 1000. — American Engineer Brian Gillen with a RUSH 1000 in 2023.

Brian Gillen on an MV World Supersport racebike in December 2023, when he was R&D Technical Director of MV Agusta Motorcycles. — Brian Gillen on an MV World Supersport racebike in December 2023, when he was still R&D Technical Director of MV Agusta Motorcycles.

Gillen posted this announcement on his Facebook page:

“As I write this post my heart is filled with a mix of emotions – gratitude, nostalgia, and excitement for the future. After 17 remarkable years, the time has come for me to bid farewell to this incredible journey with MV Agusta.

“It has been an honor and privilege to be a part of such an iconic brand, one that symbolizes innovation, craftsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of design and engineering excellence. From the very beginning, MV Agusta has been more than just a workplace for me; it has been a source of personal inspiration.

“Reflecting on the past 17 years, I am immensely proud of the milestones we achieved together. Our collaborative efforts brought forth iconic motorcycles that captivated the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. The relentless passion and dedication of the MV Agusta and CRC teams has been the driving force behind our success, and I am grateful for all the experiences we’ve shared and enormous obstacles that we have overcome, together.

“Together, we created Motorcycle Art.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to each member of the MV Agusta, CRC and Pierer Mobility family. Your passion and enthusiasm is the fuel driving the future success of MV, and I am confident that the future holds even greater achievements for the brand and entire MV family.

“Wishing MV Agusta, CRC and Pierer Mobility continued success, growth, and prosperity!”

Brian Gillen with Randy Mamola during the launch of the Brutale RR Assen special edition, in September 2023 at Assen. — Brian Gillen with MotoGP Legend Randy Mamola during the launch of the Brutale RR Assen special edition, in September 2023 at Assen.

AMA Supercross: Race Report And Video Highlights From Arizona

David Swarts

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February 11, 2024

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AMA Supercross: Race Report And Video Highlights From Arizona

Ken Roczen Captures Glendale Supercross Victory

RJ Hampshire Takes 250SX Class Win

Glendale, Ariz., (February 11, 2024) Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen grabbed the Holeshot and never looked back, taking the win at Round 6 and becoming the fifth different rider to win in the 17-round 2024 Monster Energy Supercross season. It was Roczen’s third win inside State Farm Stadium and the 55,627 fans, a record for the series at the Glendale venue, went wild for the popular racer.

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson took over second place just over two minutes into the 20-minute plus one lap Main Event and was never seriously challenged for the spot. Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence fought hard from outside the top ten. He made up time on the slick track and nabbed the final podium position, and with it the lead in the championship points. In the Western Regional 250SX Class, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire took the victory, becoming the first repeat winner of 2024 in the 250SX class.

Ken Roczen (94). Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.

“I haven’t won much in the recent years so I take these moments in so much… My start was really good. I got a super good jump. I may have shut the throttle off a little bit too early, so I almost got swallowed up there. But I had the inside and as I went around the first turn I’m like, ‘This is what I need’… The track was really tricky, it just got so slippery. I made so many micro-decisions on the track in certain areas that I picked out; as I ran through some of the first few laps I just noticed some of the key spots that are really tricky and can really bite you. So I just managed the race the whole way… I tried to not look at the time, I just clicked my laps, lap after lap. My Progressive ECSTAR Suzuki was working flawless out here today. I haven’t done many changes at all and it shows. You know, I’ve got to give it up to my whole team, my crew behind me, Peyton at home, my family, Griffin this is for you. I’ve been telling him the whole time I’m going to bring some trophies home, and especially wins, so I finally did it and this is an unbelievable moment for us.” – Ken Roczen

“Oh 100% [I’m happy with a podium]. I’m really excited to walk out here with second. But at the end of the day I felt like I left a little on the table. I started riding tight there for a second, but, with how gnarly our class is, it’s pretty cool to be up here… Honestly this is one of my home races so everyone from the 505 out here, thanks for showing up and supporting.”.” – Jason Anderson

“[I] didn’t give myself the best opportunity to go on for a win today with just getting a terrible start. But it was cool to climb my way through. It was a cool accomplishment to catch and pass Eli… So it was a cool accomplishment and just happy I was able to fight back to a podium position. [The] front boys they were gone… so especially going similar speeds here you can’t catch up, you can’t give ‘em that extra gap… It was a good finish to get third, especially with how it started.” – Jett Lawrence

After one week off, the Western Regional 250SX Class racers were back on the track for Round 5 of their regional championship. Hampshire took the win after clawing his way up from a fifth-place start. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen led early but finished the race in second. Team Honda HRC’s Jo Shimoda took third, earning his first podium ride of 2024. The top three riders in the Western Regional 250SX Class, Kitchen, Hampshire, and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Jordon Smith are now separated by only five points.

RJ Hampshire. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sport. — RJ Hampshire crosses the finish line to win the 250SX race in Glendale, Arizona. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sport.

“[It was] a really tough day. Man, I had that case [coming up short on the track’s large double jump in the] first timed practice. Man, that hurt me quite a bit. [I’m] getting up there in age so those don’t go by so fast… [In the] main event, got a decent start, made those passes quick. And [then] just kinda rode my own race… You know [my win at] A1 was so easy, and then, you know, you have some bad luck… Man, we work hard and it’s awesome to repay this whole Austrian team with another win. We get six weeks off now [for the west coast 250SX Class] so I get to recover a bit, but yeah, so stoked! Thank you! Arizona was awesome to me, ready to go back home.” – RJ Hampshire

“[Regarding Jordon Smith jumping into Levi while the ‘do not jump’ lights were flashing] I don’t know. Like, that’s a bad situation. I feel really bad, I’m glad Smitty’s okay. But yeah, you come around and they’re blinking. I didn’t know if I could jump on, and he jumped on behind me and we hit. Luckily we’re both okay… That’s a weird thing with the lights and everything. I just didn’t want to be in the wrong, and get docked. Glad I’m healthy, glad he’s healthy, and yeah, stoked to go into this long break with the red plate, obviously.” – Levi Kitchen

“We’ve been working hard in the weekends with the team but the results sometimes [are] not showing… The main event [podium], I kinda got gifted, I guess, but [it’s] some kind of way to start my groove again… I missed the feeling [of being up here on the podium].” – Jo Shimoda

The 2024 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship takes one weekend off and resumes on Saturday, February 24th inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Texas round, like all 17 Supercross events, will also pay points towards the SuperMotocross World Championship. After its inaugural season last year, the SuperMotocross League returns to encompass the Monster Energy AMA Supercross season and the AMA Pro Motocross season. The top riders from each class are seeded into two Playoff rounds and one Finale to determine the SuperMotocross World Champion of each class.

Every round of the SuperMotorcross World Championship, and therefore every Supercross round, is available live and on demand through Peacock. Select rounds will also be broadcast on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app. CNBC will air next-day encore presentations of all 31 rounds of 2024 racing. Fans outside of the US can watch live and on-demand coverage, in both English and Spanish, through the SuperMotocross Video Pass (supermotocross.tv).

Catch the action in person! Tickets for all of the eleven remaining Monster Energy Supercross events are available now. To purchase Supercross tickets, or to catch up on race results, video highlights, feature stories, and steaming and broadcast airtimes, please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.

Quail Motorcycle Gathering Announces Featured Classes For 2024

David Swarts

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February 11, 2024

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THE QUAIL MOTORCYCLE GATHERING ANNOUNCES FEATURED CLASSES FOR 2024 EVENT

Carmel, Calif. – The 14th annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering returns to Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel, California, on Saturday, May 4. This year’s event will celebrate the past, present and future of motorcycling with more than 300 vintage and modern bikes, as well as food and beverages in a family-friendly environment.

Four featured classes will be celebrated at the venerated two-wheel gathering: the 25th Anniversary of Suzuki Hayabusa, the 30th Anniversary of the Ducati 916, the 100th Anniversary of the American Motorcyclist Association and Vespa, highlighting multiple decades from the most recognized Italian scooter brand.

High-performance motorcycles take center stage in the Suzuki Hayabusa and Ducati 916 classes. The Hayabusa is among the most notorious sports motorcycles ever produced and more than 300,000 of them have been sold. It instantly gained fame as the world’s fastest production bike with a top speed of over 150 miles per hour.

The iconic Ducati 916 is considered one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever crafted for its revolutionary design and outstanding technical features. Ducati produced the 916 from 1994 to 1998 as a fully-faired sport bike, and its unique design inspired future Ducatis, including the 996 and 998.

Vespa scooters were crafted to be a practical means of travel but quickly became famous for their iconic design and distinct features. While still used as an everyday mode of transport in many high-populated countries around the world, the Vespa brand also serves as a cultural icon to symbolize the Italian way of life, as it blends classic Italian styling and innovative mechanics.

The Quail Motorcycle Gathering is also proud to celebrate the 100th anniversary of The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), a non-profit organization made up of over 200,000 motorcyclists and enthusiasts. The AMA works to organize events and campaigns in support of motorcyclists’ legal rights, while educating and empowering riders to fight for their own rights.

“With so many significant anniversaries and celebrations in the motorcycle world this year, we are excited to host The Quail Motorcycle Gathering for the 14th time,” said Kai Lermen, Managing Director of Quail Lodge & Golf Club. “We are proud to celebrate some of the most famous bikes ever produced, including the Ducati 916 and Suzuki Hayabusa, as well as the beloved Vespa brand. We hope to make the 2024 The Quail Motorcycle Gathering the best one yet.”

The event will also feature more than 10 traditional classes, including American, British, Italian, Other European, Japanese, Competition On Road, Competition Off Road, Antique, Custom/Modified, Choppers and Extraordinary Bicycles and Scooters. Entries for motorcycles, private collections and motorcycle clubs are now being accepted here.

The show will take place on the pristine lawns of Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel, California. Featuring a variety of activities for people of all ages, guests can indulge in a diverse menu from food trucks and motorcycle lifestyle vendors, as well as a variety of activities. Children, families and even pets are welcome.

The Quail Motorcycle Gathering kicks off with the Quail Ride on Friday, May 3. Departing from Quail Lodge, participants enjoy a 100-mile journey through the backroads of the renowned Monterey Peninsula, including parade laps around WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, a midday lunch and evening dinner. Vintage and modern motorcycles are welcome; applications for participants can be submitted here.

Tickets for The Quail Motorcycle Gathering are now on sale. Tickets are available at www.axs.com/festivals/514045.

Learn more at www.peninsula.com/en/signature-events and follow the action on Facebook and Instagram, @TheQuailEvents.

AHRMA: Team Obsolete Running Fleet Of Machines In Vintage Cup (Updated)

David Swarts

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February 10, 2024

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AHRMA: Team Obsolete Running Fleet Of Machines In Vintage Cup (Updated)

Team Obsolete’s 350 Grand Prix 2024 Extravaganza

Brooklyn, New York – For 2024 AHRMA has announced that the AHRMA Vintage Cup [Sponsored by Hagerty Insurance, Roadracingworld.com, and NYC Norton] will feature the 350 Grand Prix class. Team Obsolete will fabulously support the AHRMA Vintage Cup with eight (8) different iconic 350 Grand Prix bikes from our stable, each at a different circuit! They will be ridden by multi-time 350 Grand Prix champion Dave Roper. This is a worldwide first.

These bikes range in age from 1951 to 1967, naturally with varied performance. Our objective is to showcase important 350 Grand Prix historically evolving technology over a two (2) decade period.

Our tentative schedule:

2/16-18 Roebling Road, GA 1951-AJS/7R, ex works, ex Bob McIntyre

3/15-17 Kershaw, SC 1960 Surtees AJS 7R Special, ex Peter Williams

5/24-26 Nelson Ledges, OH 1961 ex Bob Mac 7R Special, ex Joe Potts

6/21-23 Millville, NJ 1967 Benelli 350/4, ex works, ex Renzo Pasolini

7/18-21 Monterey, СА 1961 AJS 7R “LW1,” Dick Mann Special

8/2-4 South Beloit, IL Roper’s Aermacchi 350, ex Cal Rayborn

9/6-8 Wampum, PA 1954 AJS 7R3 “Triple Knocker”, ex works, ex Rod Coleman (TT winner)

10/10-13 Birmingham, AL 1967 MV Agusta 350/3, ex Agostini, ex works and 1963 Kirby AJS 7R Special, ex Bill Ivy, ex Paddy Driver

Five of these bikes were extensively tested at Thompson Speedway on May 9, 2017, with excellent videography coverage. Riders were Dave Roper and Journalist Aaron Frank.

Click on the link to see an exciting action preview video.

Several of these bikes were featured in Motorcyclist Magazine before its demise.

Team Obsolete hopes that this spectacular 2024 multi-bike program will generate renewed interest in race bikes from the Classic era.

Team Obsolete thanks our sponsors Vanson Leathers, Red Line Synthetic Oil, Heidenau Tires and Buchanan Spoke and Rim, Inc.

WorldSBK: Team HRC Honda Launched Online (Includes Video)

David Swarts

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February 9, 2024

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WorldSBK: Team HRC Honda Launched Online (Includes Video)

Editorial Note: Scroll down to watch the video.

2024 Team HRC officially launched during online event

Team HRC officially launches its 2024 Superbike World Championship campaign by unveiling the livery of the new CBR1000RR-R and outlining the squad’s objectives for the new season during an online presentation.

On Friday 9 February, Team HRC officially presented its 2024 WorldSBK project that will see factory riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge take to the track with the all-new CBR1000RR-R.

During the online launch broadcast on HRC official social pages, new Team HRC manager José Manuel Escamez outlined the objectives for the upcoming racing season. This was followed by a video unveiling of the new 2024 Fireblade that will be entrusted to Lecuona and Vierge. As they head into a third consecutive season with Team HRC, the two Spanish riders reiterated their goals for the upcoming championship, emphasising the need to exploit the new bike’s potential and obtain good grip and acceleration as well as consistency at different racetracks so as to build on last season’s performance.

The 2024 Honda Fireblade features an array of updated components, starting with new aerodynamics and electronics packages. The Japanese engineers have worked tirelessly in recent months to provide the factory Superbike team with a series of new parts that should bring benefits across many areas, not least acceleration, deceleration, and braking. During winter testing, the team and riders have had a first opportunity to work on the bike, as they seek a base setup that can allow them to harness the machine’s obvious potential.

The aesthetically impactful livery sees the CBR logo flaunt a brighter shade of blue, while a striking blue band adorns the belly pan. To reflect this change, the riders’ leathers incorporate a similar blue band running vertically from top to bottom.

Lecuona and Vierge will be back on track with the new-look CBR1000RR-R on 19-20 February, when they will take part in the very last pre-season test at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia before returning to the same track on 23-25 February for the opening round of the 2024 Superbike World Championship season.

Xavi Vierge 97

Rider

Looking at your Instagram, it seems that you’re always either cycling or motocross riding.

“I like the winter period, as I can spend more time at home and make plans ahead of the new season. I love MX and can ride more over winter than at any other time. I try to do a lot of motorcycle training and cycling too. I’m based in Barcelona and there are many tracks for MX and supermoto very close to my home, within 30 minutes, so I spend a lot of time doing that. It’s great fun.”

This is your third year in WorldSBK but also your third season with HRC. Talk us through how you’re feeling as you head into your third year.

“I’m really looking forward to this year. We always say that our goal is to win and HRC has made an enormous effort to bring us a great new bike. I too am working hard to prepare in order to start the season strong.”

The new Fireblade brings many changes. What is your focus in terms of pre-season testing and what do you want from the bike?

“We basically want to improve a little in every area. We can brake late but in the final part of the braking, we have difficulty stopping properly, so we’re working on that, and also on the drive. We’ve already seen we have more potential in that area with the new bike, and with the electronics too, so I’m excited to see what we can do if we are able to find a good base-setup.”

And there are changes to the aerodynamics. Does this make for less pitching during corner entry?

“Yes, that’s one of the benefits. We’ve seen that the aerodynamics get more important each year, and so it helps in this sense and also in terms of reducing wheelies.”

You reached the podium in Indonesia in 2023, a fantastic result. Does that kickstart your 2024 campaign?

“Yes, for sure. Let’s say that we didn’t always live up to our potential in 2023, as performance sometimes depended on the track, the conditions, and whether there was a good level of grip or not. Our potential was great at Indonesia, for example, but perhaps less so at some other tracks, so we want to work hard to achieve a better, more consistent level of performance at different circuits.”

What are you most looking forward to in 2024?

“We are a factory team, and our performance needs to reflect this. I think it’s important to focus on the present and work hard, test by test and race by race, so that we can be ready to fight for big things.”

Iker Lecuona 7

Rider

Tell us about your off-season?

“I’ve really enjoyed the off-season. I love the winter and love the cold, and am lucky enough to live in Andorra, which is the perfect place for skiing. So I do a lot of alpine skiing but then also some motocross and flat track. I love the winter season as I can relax and take time for myself.”

2024 is your third year with Team HRC in WorldSBK and brings a new Fireblade model. What is your focus during the pre-season heading into round one?

“I’m very happy to be a factory rider with the same team for a third year and it means I’m motivated to work hard during the pre-season. I had a small surgery on my hand in early December so that I would have time to recover and then have the right energy and attitude to get back on the bike and work hard in January. I know my goal, I know my aims, and I know where I want to improve, so I’m trying to focus on those areas with the aim of being able to fight at the front in Australia and beyond. Let’s see what happens…”

During testing, you’ve said that the 2024 model feels different to last year’s version. What is it exactly that feels different to you?

“The two bikes are definitely different. We immediately started with an improved version last December, with different aerodynamics and different electronics. Small details really, but these make for a big step when put together. I feel the bike is more stable with this aerodynamics package, and we can more easily understand the behaviour of the bike. We need to adjust our line slightly, but we can use more power and brake a little later. Essentially, the overall feel is different thanks to this combination of new elements. Having said that, we still have a lot of work to do in order to put it all together and find the best compromise to be able to be exploit the potential of the new parts.”

How is the relationship with your new crew chief?

“To be honest, changing crew chief is never really a problem for me. I think I’m a friendly, open person and so I’m always happy to work with new colleagues and have always had a good relationship with members of my crew. My initial impression is good, and Tom seems to be a very cool guy with a positive, cheerful outlook. So far, so good, and I look forward to developing our relationship throughout the season.”

Last year you scored eight top six finishes. What is the goal for 2024?

“The goal is to fight for the podium. We reached the podium in our first year but not last year, which was more challenging. So our first goal is to develop the bike to a level that allows us to fight at the front and fight for the podium. We want to achieve more top three finishes, and then take it from there.”

José Manuel Escámez

Team Manager

Tell us about the journey that has led you to become Team Manager of Team HRC in WorldSBK?

“I first worked as a mechanic in Barcelona before moving into the racing arena. Most of my racing career to date has been in the MotoGP championship, where I’ve had chance to work with some great riders and good teams, including several seasons with HRC already. Now, I’m very happy to be the Team Manager of Team HRC in World Superbike and am ready to apply all my experience to this new role. The company is the same, and the way of working is also similar, so it’s been a relatively smooth transition, although there are also many new things to familiarise myself with, of course.”

What are your expectations for the 2024 season, in terms of the riders, the team, and the new Fireblade?

“It’s too early to talk about specific results as we still have tests to conduct. A realistic goal for us would be to continue growing and developing the new Fireblade while improving our performance compared to last year. I believe we have plenty of room for improvement, and as long as we keep making consistent progress, this will be a realistic path to follow.”

What do you see as the main challenges ahead?

“The main challenge is to become competitive with the new bike as soon as possible. There are many updates across all areas of the machine, so we need to bring it all together and find a base setup that allows our riders to fully exploit the bike’s potential. The next challenge will be to consistently compete for top-five positions and secure some podium finishes. We are aware that this is a significant challenge, considering the high level of competition in the championship, but we are working tirelessly to achieve that goal.”

What is the philosophy you bring to the team?

“I will strive to keep the team united and working together towards the same goal. I have held various positions within a team throughout my career, both on the mechanical side and in coordination roles. This has given me the opportunity to understand people and their feelings, so I want to ensure that everyone is able to give their best for the team.”

KTM Posts Over $7 Million In Contingency For 2024 Season

David Swarts

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February 9, 2024

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KTM Posts Over $7 Million In Contingency For 2024 Season

KTM CONTINUES TO PROUDLY SUPPORT AMATEUR AND PROFESSIONAL RACERS WITH 2024 CONTINGENCY PROGRAM AND TRACKSIDE SUPPORT

MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM North America, Inc. is offering the ultimate incentive to ride orange in 2024, with its race contingency program continuing to offer more than $7 million in race rewards for amateur and professional racers at over 180 series throughout the United States, alongside an extensive Trackside Support commitment.

From motocross and supercross, to all major offroad series, flat track, and road racing in the professional ranks, the KTM brand remains READY TO RACE with a competitive payout via the KTM Pro Cash debit card.

In addition, the KTM Cash dealer credit program provides amateur riders the chance to earn cash value credits that can be used to purchase KTM products at any participating KTM North America dealership.

Those KTM incentives are offered to amateur (dealer credits) and professional (cash) riders when they earn top finishes while riding KTM motorcycles at select national and regional racing events across the country. For more information on the full 2024 contingency program, payout structures and to sign up, visit KTMCash.com.

Also back for the new year, KTM’s Trackside Support will be available for all brand riders at GNCC, Daytona Amateur Supercross, Freestone Spring Championship and Spring a Ding. Orange bleeders can expect emergency parts and service throughout the year at events and series such as the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s, Mini Olympics, and all rounds of GNCC and the AMA National Enduro series.

WorldSBK: New-Look Kawasaki Racing Team Introduced (Includes Video)

David Swarts

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February 9, 2024

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WorldSBK: New-Look Kawasaki Racing Team Introduced (Includes Video)

Editorial Note: Scroll down to watch the team launch video.

KRT Launches 2024 WorldSBK Project

2024 official riders Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani helped the refreshed KRT FIM Superbike World Championship team unveil the factory Ninja ZX-10RR at the team’s public launch on Thursday 8 February 2024.

KRT’s striking new colour schemes, graphics packages and team clothing styles were introduced to the world’s media and fans via digital platforms at 18.00-CET. Existing KRT partner Cheshire Mouldings is now a primary sponsor and lubricant specialists Motul is a new sponsor for the team.

The most significant changes for some time have taken place inside the KRT effort since the end of the 2023 season, in readiness for the imminent restart in competitive racing activities. It is apt that the visual element of the bike and rider packages is also a slight departure from some previous norms.

On the human side, there is a new-look rider line up, with the experienced KRT combatant Lowes joined by the double Independent Riders’ champion Axel Bassani. The ambitious young Italian is now enjoying his first taste of being an official rider in WorldSBK.

Alex now has Pere Riba as his crew chief, with Marcel Duinker in charge of Axel’s on-track learning curve. Other changes have taken place inside the pit-crew and personnel line-up to rejuvenate the overall effort.

After winter development from KMC in Japan and their global technical partners, Lowes, Bassani and their respective technical crews have enjoyed a successful recent test programme in Spain and Portugal. They have been running their machine set-ups to suit a series of recent changes to the WorldSBK technical regulations.

In terms of machinery, the Ninja ZX-10RR now has additional peak revs and some internal upgrades to modify engine inertia, plus some small but key changes to the top end. In combination, these initiatives will allow the 2024 WorldSBK bike to have an additional 500rpm at the top of the rev-range.

As well as continuing partnerships with Showa and many other top companies with enviable reputations in racing, KRT has forged an all-new bond with specialist lubricants company Motul, with the French company becoming a main partner of KRT for the 2024 WorldSBK season.

Alex Lowes, stated: “I really like the new colours for 2024, they are a little bit different. Every other year there have been some small changes but this is my favourite one yet. I come into 2024 with a lot of optimism. In some ways the bike, the package and the team is the same but I have some different personnel to work with. We have some small upgrades and we have been working very hard in the winter, especially in our weak areas, making the bike easier to manage over race distance. I am really happy with the work we have done. Whether it is enough to challenge at the front every week, we will have to wait and see. But I certainly feel that we have made a step forward from last year. I am excited to get going and head to Phillip Island for the final pre-season test and Round One.”

Axel Bassani, stated: “I am really happy to finally show to the world the new KRT livery for the 2024 season. I think it is a really good design and I like it. For sure there is still a lot of green but some different colours. It is also really good to finally see my factory bike in factory colours. It is always nice to have a new look each season. I hope that people like the look of the bike and also all the new team clothing. The green of Kawasaki is always special. I think we can have a really good season together. I am looking forward to going to Australia soon.”

Guim Roda, stated: “For 2024 we enter into new era where, for the first time since 2015, balancing rules have been introduced which do not go against Kawasaki’s interests. We understand it is not an easy job to balance such a diverse championship. It took a lot of effort from FIM, DWO and MSMA, so we hope we can use this opportunity to be part of the show and fight to win races. We have a very balanced project this year. Lowes, a fast rider with incredible capacity for speed, is trying to extend his performance for 20 laps – right to the end of long races. Axel, a young and talented rider, is learning how to extract the full potential of the Ninja ZX-10RR each time he goes out on track. Races this season will need to be evaluated not only by finishing positions but by the distance between the first placed rider and the others, because it will be so tight. The numbers of great riders on the grid is amazing. I’m sure this is, by far, the more competitive and exciting season in WorldSBK since we started out on our KRT project in 2012. We are making a big show and hope all the racing fans, and especially the Ninja fans, will thoroughly enjoy it.”

MotoGP: Red Bull KTM Officially Introduces 2024 Team (Includes Video)

February 12, 2024

Jack Miller (left) and Brad Binder (right). Photo by Philip Platzer, courtesy Red Bull KTM Factory Racing.