MotoAmerica Twins Cup: Rocco Landers Racing Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R

John Ulrich

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February 8, 2024

Landers Set To Debut Vance & Hines Motorsports Suzuki GSX-8R In MotoAmerica Twins Cup

BROWNSBURG, IN – 02.08.2024 – Vance & Hines Motorsports, a leading force in the
world of motorcycle racing, is excited to announce that in addition to making his debut in the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series this season, Rocco Landers will also challenge for the 2024 MotoAmerica Twins Cup title on the RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki team’s brand-new Suzuki GSX-8R.

Landers, who has a class leading 15 MotoAmerica Twin Cup victories, will be attempting to re-take the title Twins Cup Championship that he earned in 2020 with his dominant nine-win season. In addition to his Twins Cup title, the 19-year-old Landers also has two MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championships and four MotoAmerica Supersport wins on his resume.

A mock-up of the Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R Rocco Landers will race in MotoAmerica Twins Cup.

“The more racing I can do the better so I’m really excited to be able to battle for two championships this year for the Vance & Hines team,” Landers said. “This is a unique opportunity for me, and I can’t wait to get to work. The new Suzuki GSX-8R is going to be a weapon and I’m looking forward to getting on the bike and racing at Daytona for the opening round of the championship. It’s going to be a busy year for me and I’m ready to get started.”

“This is going to be an exciting year for Vance & Hines,” said Vance & Hines Motorsports owner Terry Vance. “It’s going to be fun watching what Rocco can do with the new Suzuki. He’s proven that he knows how to win and even though he’s only 19 he’s got a ton of experience. Rocco will be a busy young man this season, but we know what he’s capable of and we’re expecting big things from him. We’re also happy to be bringing our new sponsor RevZilla into a second MotoAmerica class.”

The MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship begins at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida March 7-9

About Vance & Hines Motorsports

Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica.

About Revzilla

Revzilla is a leading online retailer specializing in motorcycle gear and accessories. Known for its extensive selection, expert customer service, and commitment to rider satisfaction, Revzilla is a trusted destination for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking top-quality products.

MotoGP: Bagnaia Best As Testing Concludes In Sepang

David Swarts

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February 8, 2024

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MotoGP: Bagnaia Best As Testing Concludes In Sepang

Session_for_MY2_MotoGP_FP3_2_

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

#SepangTest: Rivalries renewed as Bagnaia heads Martin on blistering final day

The 1:56 club is born as the reigning World Champion lays down the gauntlet and the pace hots up

Thursday, 08 February 2024

Ducati Lenovo Team’s Francesco Bagnaia claimed the bragging rights on the final day of the Sepang Test, and in some style too, obliterating the outright lap record. The reigning World Champion fired in a 1:56.682 during a blistering opening hour of action to better 2023 rival Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), as last year’s gripping rivalry was renewed early in 2024.

Jorge Martin (89). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Having finished fastest yesterday, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) was forced to settle for third but once again proved he’s back to his best – something his team boss, Davide Tardozzi, also wanted to stress. Fourth and the final rider to have broken new ground by posting a 1:56.938 was Gresini Racing’s Alex Marquez.

Ducati Lenovo, Prima Pramac, Pertamina Enduro VR46 & Gresini

There were yet more reasons to smile down at Ducati with their three 2024 machines occupying the top three places, and six of their seven full-time riders sitting in the top eight.

Marc Marquez (93). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Marc Marquez threw some soft rubber at his Gresini Racing machine on Thursday and he closed out the test within touching distance of the top spots. A 1:57.270 sees the #93 just over half a second behind Bagnaia, but Marquez was still concentrating on “laps, laps, laps” to get to know the bike.

Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Fabio Di Giannantonio was eighth over one lap, but his pace was nothing short of phenomenal. Nine riders did Sprint simulations today and Diggia was the fastest of the lot, ahead of Bastianini and Martin. In terms of the simulations, fifth of the nine Ducati riders, and only a couple of seconds away, came Marc Marquez.

Enea Bastianini (23). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Meanwhile, Marco Bezzecchi has had some struggles in Sepang. A third crash in three days wasn’t ideal as he was just unable to improve on his lap from yesterday and, as a result, finished 15th on the combined standings. But it’s testing yet… and the Rins Cup rolls on to Qatar!

Aprilia & Trackhouse Racing

There were headlines made off-track on Thursday morning with a new signing for the Trackhouse Racing squad – and it’s a familiar face as Davide Brivio returns to the paddock to take the reigns at the American team.

Still, it was another day of two halves for Aprilia. On one side, Aleix Espargaro hailed it “the best test” he’s ever had with the Noale factory, and you can understand why. The #41 claimed the final spot inside the top after punching in a 1:57.091, and his pace wasn’t bad either. He was fourth of the Sprint simulations and only a second away from 2023’s Sprint King, Martin.

Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Meanwhile on the other side, after complaining of a lack of rear grip yesterday, no many in-roads were made today. Maverick Viñales closed out the three days in 12th and is looking for more, whilst Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) was 18th. Still, there are two days left in Qatar.

Red Bull KTM & Red Bull GASGAS Tech3

Another day were all of the headlines coming out of the Austrian camp and down to the remarkable efforts of Pedro Acosta. Although Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) finished ahead of him on the combined standings, Acosta closed the gap down to just 0.058 seconds to the orange army’s star man.

Pedro Acosta (31). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

The rookie’s Sprint simulation is also worthy of a mention. Faster over 9 laps than Bagnaia and less than a second adrift of the incredibly experienced Marc Marquez and Aleix Espargaro. A reminder: today was just day seven on a MotoGP™ machine.

Jack Miller (43) and Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Aussie Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) rounds out the three days 1.1 seconds adrift of top spot in 14th, whilst there’s work to do for Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) who finished 21st and over two seconds behind.

Repsol Honda & CASTROL/IDEMITSU Honda LCR

Repsol Honda’s Joan Mir closed out the Sepang Test inside the top ten after going under the pole position lap from last year – positive signs for the Japanese factory. But despite Mir’s 1.1 second improvement over one lap, he wanted to stress the need for further work over a longer distance. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) fired in a 1:57.765 to end 13th, ahead of Johann Zarco and Luca Marini in 17th and 19th, but Marini was also confident of more to come in the Qatar Test.

Luca Marini (10). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Monster Energy Yamaha

There are clear signs of progress at Yamaha too, but one search remains: that of one-lap pace. It’s something already mentioned on Day 2 and the mission continued, and will continue in Qatar.

Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

On the timesheets, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was 11th, hoping for a further step next time out in Qatar, and Alex Rins was 16th and 1.1 seconds away from Bagnaia’s record-breaking lap.

That’s official a wrap on the Sepang Test! Make sure you join us on motogp.com to debrief all the action, and then we’re on the road to Lusail International Circuit in Qatar for two more days of testing in a week and a half. Join us then for more!

MotoGP: Trackhouse Racing MotoGP Signs Davide Brivio As Team Principal

John Ulrich

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February 8, 2024

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MotoGP: Trackhouse Racing MotoGP Signs Davide Brivio As Team Principal

Trackhouse Racing – Welcome to the House, Davide Brivio.

America’s MotoGP Team announces the appointment of Davide Brivio as Team Principal – with immediate effect.

NASHVILLE, Tennessee. USA. Thursday, February 8, 2024 – Trackhouse Racing MotoGP makes its first significant mark of the fledgling 2024 season, appointing one of the most respected team leaders in the world of motorsports as its Team Principal.

Fresh from his foray into the Formula 1 Paddock, Trackhouse welcomes Davide back to the MotoGP World Championship as its team leader, bringing him straight into its rookie season campaign from the get-go.

Davide’s reputation and achievements at the very pinnacle of two-wheel World Championship racing hardly need any introduction. A talismanic figure, respected for the five MotoGP Riders World Championships and four Constructor’s titles achieved under his watch – with two different brands – Trackhouse moved to secure Davide’s experience the moment his interest in the team’s new project became clear.

Davide’s most recent MotoGP World Championship came in 2020 before his bombshell departure from the Paddock and into Formula 1, MotoGP’s equivalent on four-wheels.

Bringing Davide’s leadership to the Team continues a relentless pursuit for competitiveness on the part of Trackhouse founder and owner, Justin Marks. From setting out his vision to grow the Trackhouse Entertainment Group operations beyond its successful start in NASCAR – the premier US auto racing series – to entry into the global phenomenon that MotoGP now represents, Marks continues to carve a unique path through the motorsports industry.

Joining the Championship as racing partner with Aprilia and immediately committing to running its latest 2024 spec RS-GP bikes for #88 Miguel Oliveira from the start of the season and another two for #25 Raul Fernandez, soon to follow, was the Team’s first statement of intent.

Securing the services of Wilco Zeelenberg with a highly experienced and professional crew in the pit garage, plugging in the resources of the Trackhouse commercial and marketing arms back at the Group’s headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee and the Team’s racing management resources from its race shop in Charlotte, North Carolina were the next steps. Now, the hiring of a proven leader in MotoGP is the latest move, all taking shape in quick time, to underpin Justin’s plans.

Davide Brivio’s biography starts in Monza, Northern Italy, from where he hails. Born into a country infused with the deepest passion for motor racing, Davide quickly found motorcycles. Initially, cutting his competitive teeth in motocross before the heat of battle gave way to his aspirations within the inner workings of running a racing team. Circuit racing embraced him and the trophies soon followed.

His two-year hiatus, moving to a stint with four wheels, has not blunted his love of MotoGP and he returns to the Paddock hungry to add to his trophy cabinet with Trackhouse.

Welcome to the House, Davide – we cannot wait to go racing with you from our debut in 2024.

DAVIDE BRIVIO – TEAM PRINCIPAL

“It all happened very quickly in the last days with Justin asking me to help Trackhouse in the MotoGP challenge. It’s so exciting to be a part of this new project since the beginning and I’m really looking forward to get to know Trackhouse more and see what we can bring in MotoGP from the successful vision and experience that this company has in other sports and environments. It could be a great combination of the two worlds. Now, it’s just one more test to go, almost time to go racing and we will try to support as much as we can our two talented riders Miguel and Raul and have fun. In the last few days everything has happened very quickly and before I could not say where I was going but hey, it’s great news and we will start working quickly!”

JUSTIN MARKS – TEAM OWNER

“It’s incredible to have someone of Davide’s caliber and experience leading the Trackhouse Racing MotoGP Team. All of us at the company are humbled by the commitment he has made. It became apparent the moment I met Davide that he would be someone that fits perfectly in the Trackhouse culture. I know he will lead us to great things on and off the racetrack.”

MotoAmerica: A.I.R. Onze Moto Racing Fielding Rivera Brothers Again In 2024

David Swarts

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February 8, 2024

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MotoAmerica: A.I.R. Onze Moto Racing Fielding Rivera Brothers Again In 2024

Salvadorean professional motorcycle racing team, A.I.R. Onze Moto Racing Team is set to race its third consecutive season in MotoAmerica in 2024, fielding a rider in both the Supersport and Junior Cup classes.

Ivan Rivera #83 will make the move to Supersport on a well built 2023 Suzuki GSX-R750. Ivan stated, “I’m very excited to have the opportunity to race in Supersport. This is a class that I’ve been waiting to make the jump to, and now it’s finally here. I’ve trained a lot physically to be prepared for these heavier bikes and longer races; I know my fitness won’t let me down. I’m confident and ready for the learning curve in this ultra-competitive class that runs deep with talent. That confidence come from the fact that I’m also backed by the engineering duo of Jimmy Cambora and Steve Upchurch, who I KNOW are the best in the business at what they do.”

JT Rivera will continue to race Junior Cup on a Kawasaki Ninja 400. The younger Rivera brother stated, “I’m super excited to get back on track again with my team. I plan to push hard and bring my team to the top step this year, and I plan on doing so consistently. I know that 2024 will bring us the results we want and need. I have a great team, great data, and a great bike in my corner. I can’t wait to get back and go fast.”

JT Rivera (83). Photo courtesy A.I.R. Onze Moto Racing.

Both JT’s and Ivan’s race machines are built by some of the best in the business, with Steve Upchurch (Race Engines Services) and Jimmy Cambora (RaceWorx USA).

A.I.R. Onze vows to facilitate the dreams of young riders to race at the professional level; just as they did in 2023 by fielding Bermuda rider, Jediah Cumrback and Houston’s David Roth Jr.

Collaborating with the team are James McConnell with Wizard Racing, RaceworX USA, RES, KYT Americas, Dainese, Vesrah, BLUD Lubricants, Vortex, CRC Fairings, and Niko Niko’s Greek & American cafe.

For more information about the team you may contact them at onzemrt.com, Facebook, or Instagram.

Isle Of Man TT: Cummins Re-Signs With Milenco By Padgett’s Motorcycles

David Swarts

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February 8, 2024

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CUMMINS RE-SIGNS WITH MILENCO BY PADGETTS

Conor Cummins will line up at the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races for the Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles team, having agreed a deal to ride with the Batley-based team for an eighth successive year.

The Manxman completes an impressive looking line-up alongside the returning Ian Hutchinson, with the pair riding Honda machinery in the RST Superbike, RL360 Superstock, Milwaukee Senior and Monster Energy Supersport Races.

Cummins will be looking to increase his tally of twelve TT podiums, six of which have come with Clive Padgett’s team, with the ultimate aim of taking a much yearned for maiden victory.

The 37-year old first joined the Padgetts outfit in 2017 and enjoyed a string of podium results in the headline Superbike and Senior races from 2018 to 2022, only missing out on the rostrum on one occasion. 2022 also saw him take second in the Superstock Race, setting a personal best lap in the process at an average speed of 133.116mph. That lap speed sees Cummins as the fourth fastest rider in TT history, behind only Peter Hickman, Michael Dunlop, and Dean Harrison.

Last year’s campaign was severely hampered by illness which saw him miss half of practice week and the opening Superbike and Supersport races, but he showed both his talent and resilience once more with a pair of fourths in the Senior and second Superstock races where more 132mph+ laps were chalked up.

Conor Cummins: “I’ve taken my time over the off-season to understand what I wanted to achieve in the year ahead and now that all the pieces of the jigsaw are in place, I’m delighted to be staying with the Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles team.”

“I’ve had a bit of a reset, analysing everything both on and off track, and I want to go racing properly and be committed to try and win races with the TT being at the top of the list. I’m keen to get back racing and push for wins in 2024. The desire and passion are still very much there, and after discussing everything with Clive, he’s brought everything to the table so together we’ll be throwing the kitchen sink at the TT.”

“I know what I want to do and that’s win. I made a good step forward in 2022 with the 133mph lap and was looking forward to doing more of the same last year only for a virus to scupper that. I missed a lot of track time and in the races I did, I could only really push hard on the first lap; after that the head and body were exhausted. Obviously, that was out of my control, but I’ll be doing everything possible to put in my best ever TT performances.”

Having been alongside Davey Todd since 2019, a new team mate is also set to reinvigorate Cummins further:

“I’m delighted to be team-mate to Ian and, first and foremost, I’m delighted for him to be back racing as he’s been through a lot. It’s great to see him back and with Hutchy, Clive and the whole team, we’re in an extremely strong position. I’m not here to make the numbers up and I’m determined to have my best season in racing, not just at the TT but at every circuit.”

Clive Padgett, Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles Team Principal: “Conor’s part of the Padgett family so it’s great to continue our relationship for an eighth year. The four Superbike and Senior podiums across 2018 and 2019 were incredible and the Senior and Superstock performances in 2022 were amazing, especially his 133mph+ lap in the latter.”

“Last year was obviously affected by illness and I’m not sure people realised just how poorly Conor was, so for him to finish fourth in the Senior was nothing short of a miracle. That just goes to show how talented he is and with him and Hutchy on board for 2024, we’re very excited about the season ahead.”

Cummins and the team have several pre-season tests planned before contesting a number of British Championship rounds and the North West 200 prior to the 2024 Isle of Man TT Races.

BMW Motorrad Days Returning To Garmisch-Partenkirhcen In 2024

David Swarts

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February 8, 2024

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BMW Motorrad Days Returning To Garmisch-Partenkirhcen In 2024

BMW Motorrad returns to Garmisch-Partenkirchen with the BMW Motorrad Days.

The world’s largest BMW Motorrad meeting in the “Year of the GS” from 5 to 7 July 2024, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Alps.

Munich, Germany… After two successful BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin in 2022 and 2023, BMW Motorrad will continue the legendary format of the previous events this year. The world’s largest BMW Motorrad meeting will return to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Alps. This is BMW Motorrad’s response to the heartfelt desire of its fans all over the world for unadulterated motorcycle culture, a party atmosphere and unique riding experiences against a breathtaking Alpine backdrop.

For more than 20 years, the BMW Motorrad Days have been a highlight and a must in the annual calendar of motorcycle fans from all over the world. For the past two years, the world’s largest gathering dedicated to the BMW Motorrad brand has been held in Berlin, in the heart of Europe, where BMW motorcycles have been built for more than 50 years. Together with BMW Motorrad employees from all over the world, the BMW Motorrad Days 2023 in Berlin marked an important chapter in the company’s history on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad.

Through the BMW Motorrad Days, BMW Motorrad maintains a strong emotional bond with its community all over the world. The world’s largest BMW Motorrad meeting has taken place in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for a total of 18 consecutive years against the backdrop of the magnificent Alpine panorama.

And what better location for the “Year of the GS” than Garmisch-Partenkirchen with its magnificent surroundings, winding roads and nearby alpine passes. It is the ideal terrain for unique motorcycle rides – especially with the legendary icon of adventure riding.

This is why the BMW Motorrad Days are returning to this legendary venue in the “Year of the GS”. For three days, from 5 to 7 July, BMW Motorrad will thrill the international community at the foot of the Hausberg mountain with new products, exhibitors, shows, test rides and, last but not least, traditional Bavarian lifestyle and legendary party atmosphere.

BMW Motorrad will provide more detailed information on the BMW Motorrad Days 2024 in due course.

County: Residents Suing Over Activity, Noise At Laguna Seca Have No Case

David Swarts

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February 7, 2024

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County: Residents Suing Over Activity, Noise At Laguna Seca Have No Case

A group of California property owners and residents are suing the County of Monterey (which owns WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca) over increased activity at the track and the resulting increases in noise, traffic, and other environmental issues.

In its Complaint and Petition filed with the Superior Court of California, County of Monterey, on December 12, 2023, the Highway 68 Coalition claims that the County of Monterey was incorrect in approving the current Concession Agreement with Friends of Laguna Seca in 2023 because the County used “categorical exemptions to excuse the preparation and consideration of a legally adequate environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).”

The CEQA, according to the (California) Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, “requires public agencies to ‘look before they leap’ and consider the environmental consequences of their discretionary actions. CEQA is intended to inform government decision-makers and the public about the potential environmental effects of proposed activities and to prevent significant, avoidable environmental damage.”

According to the Highway 68 Coalition, the only environmental reviews occurred in 1974, when ownership of the property was transferred from the U.S. Army to the County of Monterey, and in 1983, when the County Planning Commission approved Use Permit No. 2991 “governing the operation and general development of Laguna Seca.” Neither of those environmental reviews, however, focused on motor vehicle racing or “assessed the sound generated from such activities,” claims the Highway 68 Coalition.

The group of local residents also contends that the 2023 Concession Agreement with Friends of Laguna Seca, unlike previous agreements, places no limit on the amount of event days WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca can host and no sound limitations on any motor vehicles “including racecars,” opening the door for increased activity and noise, which they claim is already happening.

Highway 68 Coalition alleges activity at Laguna Seca Raceway has “substantially increased” from 2021 through 2023 “compared to similar operations from 1974 until 2021,” increasing noise and traffic while providing inadequate water supply and water quality, and inadequate waste water disposal.

All of that, says the Highway 68 Coalition, has adversely impacted local residents and property owners.

The Highway 68 Coalition also claims that racing activity at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca isn’t even allowed under a 1983 Use Permit and the County’s Zoning Codes, which were established in 1985. But in the same complaint, the coalition quotes Section 21.68.020 of the County’s zoning code, which reads “Any use of land, structure or land and structure which was legally established but is nonconforming to subsequently adopted land use regulations is a legal nonconforming use.”

But unlike some media reports and Internet forum headlines read, the lawsuit is not trying to completely shut down WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Highway 68 Coalition is asking the court to order the County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca to “cease and desist” from allowing activity at Laguna Seca Raceway to produce noise levels “in excess of the level of use and noise that existed at the time…when the applicable zoning was established” in 1985.

The Highway 68 Coalition is also asking the court to “vacate and set aside” the County of Monterey’s approval of the 2023 Concession Agreement and to “rescind the Notice of Exemption for the Concession Agreement” and to direct the County to “comply with the requirements of CEQA” and “to comply with Monterey County Code Title 21.84.050 when reviewing any proposed Concession Agreement.”

In a statement, the County of Monterey responded: “It is unfortunate certain individuals have chosen to file a complaint against the County concerning operations at Laguna Seca. The County does not recognize any merit to the allegations and expects a favorable legal conclusion. In the meantime, the lawsuit does not impact Laguna Seca’s scheduled activities and events for 2024.

“Laguna Seca, a world-renowned racetrack and recreation area, has been under the successful ownership of the County of Monterey for 50 years. The facility has become a vital economic asset for the County and the entire region. Beyond its economic contributions, Laguna Seca has served as a hub for charitable initiatives, allowing local organizations to host events and raise millions of dollars for noble causes.”

In 2022, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca produced an economic impact of $247 million in the Monterey County area from just its six spectator events, according to a survey of ticket purchasers. And that does not take into account spending by people attending the dozens of track days, schools, and non-racing events at the track.

“The County of Monterey is dedicated to continuing its responsible stewardship of Laguna Seca and ensuring that the community benefits from this unique resource,” the statement from the County of Monterey continued. “Business operations will proceed as usual, reflecting our steadfast commitment to maintaining the legacy of Laguna Seca as a thriving recreational destination.

“While the County acknowledges the existence of the legal process initiated by the local coalition, it remains confident in the merits of its position. The County anticipates a speedy resolution to the litigation and is committed to upholding the values that have made Laguna Seca an integral part of Monterey County for half a century.”

A hearing on this case has been scheduled for June 20, 2024.

Hwy 68 Coalition v County Complaint

MotoAmerica: Team Hammer Signs Young Gun Rossi Moor For Twins Cup

David Swarts

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February 7, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Team Hammer Signs Young Gun Rossi Moor For Twins Cup

TEAM HAMMER SIGNS YOUNG GUN ROSSI MOOR FOR MOTOAMERICA TWINS CUP

Team Hammer, Inc. has signed with Suzuki Motor, USA LLC to compete in the MotoAmerica Twins Cup series with the newly-homologated GSX-8R for the next two seasons, in addition to the team already racing GSX-R1000Rs in MotoAmerica Superbike and GSX-R750s in MotoAmerica Supersport. Following the new agreement, Team Hammer has contracted Rossi Moor, age 16, to race a Suzuki GSX-8R in Twins Cup. The multi-year contract includes opportunities to advance into Supersport and beyond.

Moor has already had notable results and joins a long list of talented competitors who have launched their professional careers with Team Hammer over the last four decades.

“I’m super excited about the whole thing. It’s a great opportunity and an honor for me. I’m ready to do my best,” said Moor. “I have known people from Team Hammer since I was a kid and I always wanted to race for the team one day. Also, my dad was a huge Suzuki fan when I was growing up, so he had some of those cool bikes. To get to race one myself now is something I always wanted, too.”

After racing and winning in the U.S., Hungarian-American Moor won the 2022 FIM Northern Talent Cup in Europe with five wins and 10 podiums in 14 events. “That series was seen as a gateway to GP racing, so the competition was very tough,” said Moor, who was born in Oregon and has dual American and Hungarian citizenship. Moor also raced in the FIM Moto3 Junior World Championship as a wild card. “There were usually seven guys within a 10th of the leader. If you were a half-second off, you might have been 18th, so not even in the points. Racing hard in Europe is an ‘every day’ thing. It forced me to learn fast against serious competition.”

A serious wrist injury suffered late in the 2022 season put Moor’s 2023 plans in doubt, but after undergoing reconstructive surgery, the Portland, Oregon resident raced in MotoAmerica Junior Cup last season. He finished second in the championship with two wins and a total of five podium finishes. “Due to my injury, it wasn’t sure what we were going to do last year. We ended up getting our bike the day before we had to leave for Road Atlanta. We raced it out of our van and I got to learn a lot along the way. I’m ready for this season and it has always been my dream to race for Team Hammer, a professional team with a long line of success.”

Team Hammer Vice President of Operations Chris Ulrich says Moor is the type of young racer who can benefit from Team Hammer’s racing experience. “He’s a young, hard charger. We’ve been watching him for a long time, over here in the Mini Cup and Junior Cup and also his results in Europe,” said Ulrich. “We’re excited to return to the Twins Cup class with Suzuki and the GSX-8R. It’s been a fun category for us. We had good success with Suzuki SV650s in Twins Cup both seasons we entered, winning the championship in 2019 and 2020–and we’re looking forward to rolling the 8R out at Daytona. With our infrastructure and the new Suzuki GSX-8R, we think we can do great things working with Rossi and Suzuki.”

ABOUT SUZUKI

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, 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.

ABOUT TEAM HAMMER

The 2024 season marks Team Hammer’s 44th consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Race bikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 133 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 361 times, and have won 11 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport.) The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships. Team Hammer races as Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki.

ABOUT VISION WHEEL

Founded in 1976, Vision Wheel is one of the nation’s leading providers of custom wheels for cars and trucks, and one of the first manufacturers of custom wheels and tires for ATVs, UTVs, and golf carts. Vision Wheel looks beyond the current trends and to the future in developing, manufacturing, and distributing its wheels. Vision’s lines of street, race, off-road, American Muscle, and Milanni wheels are distributed nationally and internationally through a trusted network of distributors. Vision Wheel also produces the Vision It AR app to allow users to see how their wheel of choice will look on their vehicle before purchase and installation. For more information on Vision Wheel, visit www.visionwheel.com.

MotoAmerica: Team Hammer And Vance & Hines Fielding Suzukis In Twins Cup

David Swarts

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February 7, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Team Hammer And Vance & Hines Fielding Suzukis In Twins Cup

SUZUKI NAMES MOTOAMERICA TWINS CUP RACE TEAMS

Team Hammer and Vance & Hines Motorsports To Campaign All-New GSX-8R

Brea, CA (February 7, 2024) – Suzuki Motor USA LLC (Suzuki) named two MotoAmerica Twins Cup race teams today. In partnering with Team Hammer and Vance & Hines Motorsports, Suzuki takes another step toward its objective to race the new GSX-8R following the recent homologation of the latest Suzuki middleweight sportbike.

Team Hammer will race the GSX-8R in the team’s new 2024 Twins Cup effort. Racing the GSX-8R is in addition to Team Hammer’s efforts racing Suzuki GSX-R sportbikes in Superbike and Supersport. As one of road racing’s most successful programs, Team Hammer has earned over 130 pro race wins, 11 championships, and over 360 podium results. The team will race in the Twins Cup class as Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR SUZUKI.

Also bringing the GSX-8R to the starting grid in 2024 is Vance & Hines Motorsports, which fields an all-new Twins Cup effort. Vance & Hines partnered with Suzuki to win the 2023 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle (PSM) World Championship drag racing Suzuki’s legendary Hayabusa. Vance & Hines Motorsports’ new twins class effort is a natural addition to this successful partnership. The team will race the GSX-8R as RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki.

Each team will name riders for the Team Hammer and Vance & Hines Motorsports efforts shortly.

The 2024 Suzuki GSX-8R sportbike offers a new, powerful parallel-twin engine in a strong and compact chassis. The GSX-8R is ideal for middleweight sportbike enthusiasts seeking dynamic, real-world performance and is anticipated to be the motorcycle of choice in MotoAmerica Twins Cup racing.

“The GSX-8R is engineered to satisfy Suzuki riders wanting a versatile, middleweight sportbike, to deliver on our dealers’ business needs, and to prevail in competition. The GSX-8R is an important motorcycle in today’s market,” said Kerry Graeber, Senior Vice President, Division Manager, Sales and Marketing at Suzuki. “The GSX-8R also represents an exciting new chapter in Suzuki racing and it is a perfect complement to the Suzuki racing efforts in MotoAmerica’s Superbike, Stock 1000, and Supersport classes. Partnering with these two well-respected teams, we anticipate the GSX-8R to be a natural extension of Suzuki’s existing road racing programs.”

The six-round 2024 Twins Cup series runs middleweight, twin-cylinder motorcycles enabling young, up-and-coming racers from around the world to compete at the national level. Twins Cup along with the entire 2024 MotoAmerica Championship kicks off at Daytona International Speedway on March 7 through March 9, 2024.

For more racing news, results, and special team content please visit https://suzukicycles.com/racing/road-racing.

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.

Opinion: A New Era For Women In Road Racing?

David Swarts

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February 7, 2024

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Opinion: A New Era For Women In Road Racing?

FIRST PERSON/OPINION:

By Elisa Gendron Belen

Will the new FIM Women’s World Championship be a viable class that will attract the best women racers in the world? It remains to be seen. To date, the best women in the world have taken their talent to the “co-ed” classes to compete. Frankly, there have been few, if any, opportunities for the best women to compete against each other in a class open to any woman who wants to enter, qualify and race…on the homologated machine of her choice. Even the new FIM Women’s World Championship does not completely address this, as there is an application process and a one-manufacturer spec grid.

While I applaud Royal Enfield and the organizers for putting together the Build. Train. Race. series to showcase women and attract them to the sport, it is limited to riders who are selected through an application process, and obviously to one manufacturer/model. This is not unlike Italika Racing’s International Latin American Women’s Cup that I personally competed in for the past three seasons. There is also a selection process for the women competitors and again, a single manufacturer/model to ride. Neither of these series allows for an “open” qualifying opportunity on a variety of homologated machines, which could possibly increase the size of the grids and draw talented women racers from the “co-ed” classes.

In spite of the one manufacturer limitation and application process, there does seem to be some excitement building for the FIM Women’s World Championship, which is marketed as a series that will attract and highlight the talents and abilities of the best female racers around the world. There are high hopes among promoters, teams, racers and fans that the series will finally provide the long-awaited platform that top female road racers have been looking for to showcase their talents on a global stage.

The women will be racing the Yamaha R7 motorcycle in this 12-race spec-class championship and will compete at six European rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship. The pitch of this single manufacturer/model spec-class is that the promoter-mandated standardized equipment will ensure that the machines are similar in power delivery and handling so that no one machine has a competitive advantage, and the series will therefore exhibit the talent of the individual racer. But there is also a risk to a series completely dependent on one manufacturer for support.

Women from series such as ASRA, WERA, MotoAmerica, Italika Racing, and the European Women’s Cup are preparing to go and compete in this inaugural year of the championship.

Of course, many uncertainties remain regarding the organization of the series and the level of competition it will attract.

While there have been opportunities for women to race in women’s championships before, generally they have not garnered the validation or respect of the racing community at large and many women racers have chosen to avoid them all together in an effort to move further in their careers. There are, in fact, some very fast women riders on the MotoAmerica grid that have publicly stated their lack of interest in a women-only series. Likewise, the fastest women racers in Europe have also generally competed in the traditional “co-ed” classes.

The FIM Women’s World Championship hopes to accomplish what others have not and establish a series where the women’s championship can be taken seriously and enjoyed by fans of the road racing world community. While this will still be a learning year for the championship and its organizers, it is important to the series that their riders are marketed and approached as seriously as any men’s championship. Many women’s championships have struggled to establish validity within the racing community which, as noted previously, has turned women racers away from participating in those competitions.

Women road racers have long had to forge a path for themselves in the heavily male-dominated world of motorcycle racing. The small number of women racers have often led to very few women on the grid at professional race events, if at all. The hopes are high that with World Superbike taking up the effort, that a new era for women racers is just beginning.

Elisa Gendron Belen competes in the MotoAmerica Jr. Cup class on her Karns Performance Kawasaki Ninja 400 and is a Sport Management major with minors in International Studies and Language & Culture at St. John Fisher University. Elisa also works with both KYT Helmet Americas and Chicken Hawk Racing as a customer service representative.

MotoAmerica Twins Cup: Rocco Landers Racing Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R

February 8, 2024

Rocco Landers will race a Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R in MotoAmerica Twins Cup.

Landers Set To Debut Vance & Hines Motorsports Suzuki GSX-8R In MotoAmerica Twins Cup

BROWNSBURG, IN – 02.08.2024 – Vance & Hines Motorsports, a leading force in the
world of motorcycle racing, is excited to announce that in addition to making his debut in the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers series this season, Rocco Landers will also challenge for the 2024 MotoAmerica Twins Cup title on the RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki team’s brand-new Suzuki GSX-8R.

Landers, who has a class leading 15 MotoAmerica Twin Cup victories, will be attempting to re-take the title Twins Cup Championship that he earned in 2020 with his dominant nine-win season. In addition to his Twins Cup title, the 19-year-old Landers also has two MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championships and four MotoAmerica Supersport wins on his resume.

“The more racing I can do the better so I’m really excited to be able to battle for two championships this year for the Vance & Hines team,” Landers said. “This is a unique opportunity for me, and I can’t wait to get to work. The new Suzuki GSX-8R is going to be a weapon and I’m looking forward to getting on the bike and racing at Daytona for the opening round of the championship. It’s going to be a busy year for me and I’m ready to get started.”

“This is going to be an exciting year for Vance & Hines,” said Vance & Hines Motorsports owner Terry Vance. “It’s going to be fun watching what Rocco can do with the new Suzuki. He’s proven that he knows how to win and even though he’s only 19 he’s got a ton of experience. Rocco will be a busy young man this season, but we know what he’s capable of and we’re expecting big things from him. We’re also happy to be bringing our new sponsor RevZilla into a second MotoAmerica class.”

The MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship begins at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida March 7-9

About Vance & Hines Motorsports

Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica.

About Revzilla

Revzilla is a leading online retailer specializing in motorcycle gear and accessories. Known for its extensive selection, expert customer service, and commitment to rider satisfaction, Revzilla is a trusted destination for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking top-quality products.

MotoGP: Bagnaia Best As Testing Concludes In Sepang

February 8, 2024

Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy MotoGP.com.

Session_for_MY2_MotoGP_FP3_2_

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

#SepangTest: Rivalries renewed as Bagnaia heads Martin on blistering final day

The 1:56 club is born as the reigning World Champion lays down the gauntlet and the pace hots up

Thursday, 08 February 2024

Ducati Lenovo Team’s Francesco Bagnaia claimed the bragging rights on the final day of the Sepang Test, and in some style too, obliterating the outright lap record. The reigning World Champion fired in a 1:56.682 during a blistering opening hour of action to better 2023 rival Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), as last year’s gripping rivalry was renewed early in 2024.

Having finished fastest yesterday, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) was forced to settle for third but once again proved he’s back to his best – something his team boss, Davide Tardozzi, also wanted to stress. Fourth and the final rider to have broken new ground by posting a 1:56.938 was Gresini Racing’s Alex Marquez.

Ducati Lenovo, Prima Pramac, Pertamina Enduro VR46 & Gresini

There were yet more reasons to smile down at Ducati with their three 2024 machines occupying the top three places, and six of their seven full-time riders sitting in the top eight.

Marc Marquez threw some soft rubber at his Gresini Racing machine on Thursday and he closed out the test within touching distance of the top spots. A 1:57.270 sees the #93 just over half a second behind Bagnaia, but Marquez was still concentrating on “laps, laps, laps” to get to know the bike.

Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Fabio Di Giannantonio was eighth over one lap, but his pace was nothing short of phenomenal. Nine riders did Sprint simulations today and Diggia was the fastest of the lot, ahead of Bastianini and Martin. In terms of the simulations, fifth of the nine Ducati riders, and only a couple of seconds away, came Marc Marquez.

Meanwhile, Marco Bezzecchi has had some struggles in Sepang. A third crash in three days wasn’t ideal as he was just unable to improve on his lap from yesterday and, as a result, finished 15th on the combined standings. But it’s testing yet… and the Rins Cup rolls on to Qatar!

Aprilia & Trackhouse Racing

There were headlines made off-track on Thursday morning with a new signing for the Trackhouse Racing squad – and it’s a familiar face as Davide Brivio returns to the paddock to take the reigns at the American team.

Still, it was another day of two halves for Aprilia. On one side, Aleix Espargaro hailed it “the best test” he’s ever had with the Noale factory, and you can understand why. The #41 claimed the final spot inside the top after punching in a 1:57.091, and his pace wasn’t bad either. He was fourth of the Sprint simulations and only a second away from 2023’s Sprint King, Martin.

Meanwhile on the other side, after complaining of a lack of rear grip yesterday, no many in-roads were made today. Maverick Viñales closed out the three days in 12th and is looking for more, whilst Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) was 18th. Still, there are two days left in Qatar.

Red Bull KTM & Red Bull GASGAS Tech3

Another day were all of the headlines coming out of the Austrian camp and down to the remarkable efforts of Pedro Acosta. Although Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) finished ahead of him on the combined standings, Acosta closed the gap down to just 0.058 seconds to the orange army’s star man.

The rookie’s Sprint simulation is also worthy of a mention. Faster over 9 laps than Bagnaia and less than a second adrift of the incredibly experienced Marc Marquez and Aleix Espargaro. A reminder: today was just day seven on a MotoGP™ machine.

Aussie Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) rounds out the three days 1.1 seconds adrift of top spot in 14th, whilst there’s work to do for Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) who finished 21st and over two seconds behind.

Repsol Honda & CASTROL/IDEMITSU Honda LCR

Repsol Honda’s Joan Mir closed out the Sepang Test inside the top ten after going under the pole position lap from last year – positive signs for the Japanese factory. But despite Mir’s 1.1 second improvement over one lap, he wanted to stress the need for further work over a longer distance. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) fired in a 1:57.765 to end 13th, ahead of Johann Zarco and Luca Marini in 17th and 19th, but Marini was also confident of more to come in the Qatar Test.

Monster Energy Yamaha

There are clear signs of progress at Yamaha too, but one search remains: that of one-lap pace. It’s something already mentioned on Day 2 and the mission continued, and will continue in Qatar.

On the timesheets, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was 11th, hoping for a further step next time out in Qatar, and Alex Rins was 16th and 1.1 seconds away from Bagnaia’s record-breaking lap.

That’s official a wrap on the Sepang Test! Make sure you join us on motogp.com to debrief all the action, and then we’re on the road to Lusail International Circuit in Qatar for two more days of testing in a week and a half. Join us then for more!

MotoGP: Trackhouse Racing MotoGP Signs Davide Brivio As Team Principal

February 8, 2024

Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks (left) and Davide Brivio (right). Photo courtesy Trackhouse Racing.