Bridgestone Fielding Daley And Young On Suzukis In Daytona 200

David Swarts

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January 30, 2024

Bridgestone Fielding Daley And Young On Suzukis In Daytona 200

Bridgestone at Daytona 200: Top Canadian Superbike Riders Ben Young and Trevor Daley Join Team BATTLAX

Bridgestone partners with 2023 Canadian Superbike champion Ben Young and Suzuki Canada rider Trevor Daley to form Team BATTLAX.
Young and Daley will debut on the Bridgestone-backed effort, Team BATTLAX, at the Daytona 200 March 7-9, 2024.
Team BATTLAX to race on identical custom Suzuki Canada GSX-R750 builds featuring Bridgestone BATTLAX race tires.

Trevor Daley (left) and Ben Young (right). Image courtesy Bridgestone.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 30, 2024) – Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) today announced it has teamed up with top Canadian Superbike Championship riders Ben Young and Trevor Daley to form Team BATTLAX, which will debut at the 82^nd running of the Daytona 200 March 7-9, 2024, at Daytona International Speedway. Team BATTLAX will compete on a pair of identical custom Suzuki Canada GSX-R750 builds featuring Bridgestone BATTLAX race tires.

The Bridgestone-backed Team BATTLAX will feature a unique partnership with Young, Canadian Superbike champion who is fresh off his third Canadian title, and Daley, who is a Suzuki Canada rider. Race and fabrication shop OneSpeedInc is building a pair of Suzuki Canada GSX-R750s with technical oversight and advice from Young’s longtime crew chief Willie Vass.

“The Daytona 200 features some of the best professional riders from across the world, and we are thrilled to partner with Ben and Trevor to represent Bridgestone this year,” said Jim Dowell, Motorsports and Sales Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire business in the United States and Canada. “The Bridgestone BATTLAX family of tires has a long history of delivering at the highest levels of racing, and we are looking forward to seeing Team BATTLAX push its performance on track at the Daytona 200.”

The 2023 Daytona 200 marked Young’s first experience racing on Bridgestone tires. Despite several challenges with Young’s equipment on race weekend, a late-race push ultimately saw him running inside the Top 10. The 2024 event will see Young contesting his fourth Daytona 200 and Daley’s first. In addition to Young’s Daytona 200 race experience with Bridgestone tires, Daley has spent significant time as part of a Daytona 24-hour prototype racing team bringing a wealth of experience for the preparation needed to compete in a demanding endurance racing event.

“In North American motorcycle racing, there isn’t a challenge greater than the high banks of the Daytona 200,” said Young. “To win at Daytona is the ultimate feather in a racer’s cap. I’m ready to take my experience in previous Daytona 200s—and specifically last year on Bridgestone tires—and deliver another strong season of racing that builds upon the success of the last several.”

Young and Daley will be racing on Bridgestone BATTLAX tires following both riders recently completing the inaugural Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship Series, which marked the company’s record-setting first year as the exclusive tire supplier. Team BATTLAX will be fortified trackside by a full slate of Bridgestone engineers, with the entire team taking part in testing preceding the Daytona 200.

“Leading up to the event, our team will be well familiarized with the supersport-spec GSX-R750 and will be able to use valuable information and experience to put us at the sharp end of the grid,” said Daley. “Between our collective experience and riding our own prepared bikes featuring Bridgestone BATTLAX race tires, I feel extremely confident heading into this year’s 200 with Team BATTLAX.”

Bridgestone’s partnership with Team BATTLAX aligns with the “Emotion” and “Ease” values of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment. The Bridgestone E8 Commitment, encompassing eight values all beginning with the letter “E,” solidifies Bridgestone’s dedication to fostering a more sustainable world.

For more company news, visit BridgestoneAmericas.com.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 45,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

MotoAmerica: Baz Joins Herrin On Warhorse HSBK Ducati Superbike Team

David Swarts

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January 30, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Baz Joins Herrin On Warhorse HSBK Ducati Superbike Team

Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Ready For Two-Rider Competition in 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship

Sunnyvale, Calif. — Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati is proud to announce that Josh Herrin and former WorldSBK and MotoGP star Loris Baz will front a two-rider Ducati team on the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.

In what will undoubtedly be one of the most competitive line-ups in MotoAmerica Superbike history, Herrin and Baz will utilize the strengths of the WorldSBK-winning Ducati Panigale V4 R in an attempt to claim a first MotoAmerica/AMA Superbike title for Ducati in the modern era.

Herrin will compete with Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati for a third season after claiming the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship, the 2023 Daytona 200 on the Ducati Panigale V2, and two race wins on the Panigale V4 R in MotoAmerica Superbike, eventually finishing a second overall behind 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, Jake Gagne. He is determined to go one better in 2024.

For Baz, the popular Frenchman will be back on American soil after two seasons racing in the WorldSBK Championship. Baz last competed in MotoAmerica for Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati in 2021, finishing fourth in the series standings.

Loris Baz, circa 2021. Photo courtesy Ducati North America.

Loris Baz (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#76)

“Last year was a tough with a big injury, and I wanted to come back to America with the same team I had in 2021. I have always said the people I met in the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati squad were the biggest family I made in racing. We kept in contact during my two WorldSBK years with the hope we would see each other again in the future, so the fact this has happened makes me happy.

“I am back training 100 percent now without any pain in my ankle and I am really looking forward to seeing all the American fans again. I have kept in touch with many of them since I last competed in MotoAmerica. It’s going to be a great season!”

Josh Herrin, as seen during the 2023 season. Photo courtesy Ducati North America.

Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#2)

“I’m really excited about 2024 and being teammates with Loris Baz,” Herrin said. “The chance to be teammates with Loris was actually one of the reasons that I signed with the team in the first place back at the end of 2021, and although I’ve had two awesome teammates over last two years, being teammates Baz was something I really wanted and I’m happy we’re finally making that happen.”

“Having a teammate in MotoAmerica Superbike is going to be huge for the team. With an extra rider, the results should be even better than last year because we will get twice the data, and Loris and I can work together and set up the best bike for our season.”

Bobby Shek (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Team Manager)

“Finally, after three years, we have arrived at a two-rider factory-supported program. Both Josh and Loris are highly competitive world riders on well-sorted Ducati Superbikes, so we are very optimistic that we will be fighting for wins early in the season,” Shek said.

“We did a good job last year when Josh and the bike were new to each other and now with another season of data in the bank, we expect even better results.”

Round one of the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship will be held at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta on April 19-21.

MotoAmerica: ASBK Champion Herfoss Joins O’Hara On S&S Indian Team

David Swarts

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January 30, 2024

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MotoAmerica: ASBK Champion Herfoss Joins O’Hara On S&S Indian Team

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE ANNOUNCES 2024 FACTORY RACE TEAMS, SIGNS THREE-TIME AUSTRALIAN SUPERBIKE CHAMPION TROY HERFOSS FOR ITS KING OF THE BAGGERS® & SUPER HOOLIGAN® EFFORTS

Herfoss Joins Reigning Super Hooligan® Champion & Two Time KOTB Champion Tyler O’Hara, Team to Pilot Pair of S&S® Indian Challengers and S&S® FTRs

Reigning American Flat Track^sm SuperTwins Champion Jared Mees to Pilot FTR750 for Eighth Consecutive Year, Eyes Record-Setting 10th-Career Championship in 2024

Indian Motorcycle Racing Commits More than $450,000 in Combined Privateer Contingency for King of the Baggers®, Super Hooligan® & American Flat Track^sm National Championship

MINNEAPOLIS (JANUARY 30, 2024) – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2024 factory race teams for King of the Baggers® (KOTB), Super Hooligan® (SHNC) and American Flat Track^sm (AFT). Running two No. 1 plates in 2024, Indian Motorcycle Racing welcomes the return of reigning champions Tyler O’Hara and Jared Mees, as well as the addition of three-time Australian Superbike Champion Troy Herfoss. The company has also announced more than $450,000 in combined privateer contingency for KOTB, SHNC and AFT.

“We’re excited to welcome Troy to the Indian Motorcycle family, as he’s a seasoned road racer with a wealth of experience competing at a high level,” said Gary Gray, Vice President Racing and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “Backed by the performance capabilities of Indian Motorcycle, we feel we have three riders who could each win a championship in 2024. Jared of course is eyeing a record-setting 10th-career AFT championship, while Tyler and Troy could both very well be in the hunt for the King of the Baggers and Super Hooligan championship. Our team has put in the work this offseason, so we’re excited to get the season rolling and head out to Daytona.”

MotoAmerica® KOTB & SHNC

For 2024, Indian Motorcycle and S&S® will put forth a two-man factory race team that will compete in both the KOTB and SHNC classes. Tyler O’Hara enters his fifth year aboard the S&S Indian Challenger, having won the inaugural KOTB race in 2020, and the class championship in 2022.

In addition, 2024 will mark O’Hara’s second year piloting the S&S Indian FTR within the SHNC class, where he’s earned back-to-back class championships.

Racing alongside O’Hara under S&S is three-time Australian Superbike champion Troy Herfoss, a household name in Australian racing. Herfoss transcends boundaries between on and off-road competitions, as he’s recorded championship titles in several forms of motorcycle racing, including Australian Dirt Track, Supermoto, and Supersport. Herfoss was the 2008 AMA Supermoto champion and a Moto X-Games silver medalist.

“To have the opportunity to don Indian Motorcycle Red leathers and compete on behalf of such a historic brand is a true honor,” said Herfoss. “As a motorsports enthusiast in Australia, I’ve been envious of all the bagger racing taking place in the states, and I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to pilot an S&S Indian Challenger and ride for a factory team who has a championship to its name.”

In addition to its factory efforts, Indian Motorcycle is offering up to $131,999 in KOTB privateer contingency and up to $67,249 in SHNC contingency.

2024 Indian Motorcycle KOTB Privateer Contingency

Championship: $20,000, + 2024 Indian Challenger Dark Horse, MSRP $30,999
1^st: $3,000
2^nd: $1,000
3^rd: $500

2024 Indian Motorcycle SHNC Privateer Contingency

Championship: $5,000, + 2024 FTR R Carbon, MSRP $17,249
1^st: $3,000
2^nd: $1,000
3^rd: $500

AFT SuperTwins

Returning for his eighth consecutive year aboard the Indian FTR750 is reigning AFT SuperTwins champion Jared Mees. After a record-tying ninth-career championship in 2023, Mees now has his sights set on double digits – a record-setting 10-career AFT grand national championships.

As Mees looks to make history once again, he’ll rely on his trusted team led by Crew Chief Kenny Tolbert, Assistant Mechanic Bubba Bently and Suspension Technician Jimmy Wood. Mees will also receive support from Rogers Racing, SDI Racing, S&S® Cycle, Flex Armor, Drag Specialties®, Twigg Cycles, Mission® Foods, Monster Energy®, Service Pro, Öhlins® Suspension, Klotz® Oil, Klock Werks^sm, RK Chain®, Seats, Engine Ice®, RMR Construction, Motion Pro®, Vertex Pistons, Pro Plates and DBI Motorsports.

In addition to its AFT factory efforts around Mees, Indian Motorcycle is offering the sport’s most robust privateer contingency, equating to more than $252,600.

2024 Indian Motorcycle AFT Privateer Contingency:

Championship: $25,000
1^st: $7,500
2^nd: $2,500
3^rd: $1,500
4^th: $1,000
5^th: $750
6^th: $350
7^th: $250
8^th: $150
9^th: $125
10^th: $100

Indian Motorcycle Racing welcomes S&S® as title sponsor and is presented by Progressive Insurance® and Mission® Foods, with additional support from Indian Motorcycle Motor Oil, Parts Unlimited, Drag Specialties® and Performance Finance.

KOTB, SHNC and AFT seasons begin March 7 at the Daytona International Speedway. For more information on the 2024 AFT season, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com, for KOTB and SHNC, visit MotoAmerica.com.

For information about Indian Motorcycle, visit IndianMotorcycle.com, or follow along on Facebook, Xand Instagram.

ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®

Indian Motorcycle Company is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

INDIAN and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE are registered trademarks of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC. Always wear a helmet, protective clothing and eyewear and insist your passenger does the same. Ride within the limits of the law and your own abilities. Read, understand and follow your owner’s manual. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Progressive Insurance® is a registered trademark of Progressive Casualty Insurance Company; MOTOAMERICA® is a registered trademark of Krave Group, American Flat Track^SM is a service trademark of Daytona Motorsports Group LLC; Harley-Davidson® is a registered trademark of H-D U.S.A., LLC; King of the Baggers® is a registered trademark of KRAVE GROUP, LLC; Super Hooligan® is a registered trademark of Roland Sands Design, Inc.; Mission® is a registered trademark of Gruma Corporation; Monster Energy® is a registered trademark; Drag Specialties® is a registered trademark of LeMans Corporation; Bell® is a registered trademark of Bell Sports, Inc; S&S® is a registered trademark of S&S Cycle, Inc.; Öhlins® is a registered trademark of Öhlins Racing AB CORPORATION SWEDEN; Klotz®is a registered trademark of Klotz Synthetic Lubricants, Inc.; Klock Werks is a service trademark of Klock, Brian INDIVIDUAL; RK TAKASAGO CHAIN is a registered trademark of RK JAPAN CO., LTD., Engine Ice® is a registered trademark of KOST USA, LLC; VP Racing Fuels® is a registered trademark of VP RACING FUELS Inc.; Motion Pro® is a registered trademark of Motion Pro Inc.; Corbi® is a registered trademark of CORBIN PACIFIC, INC; Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC.

ABOUT S&S® CYCLE

S&S® Cycle was born from a passion for racing and has spent over six decades building performance for the powersports market. Their unwavering focus on quality, reliability and top shelf power has made S&S® Cycle the absolute leader in high performance on the street and track.

MotoGP Analysis: Who Will Dominate in 2024? In The January Issue

Trudy Ulrich

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January 30, 2024

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MotoGP Analysis: Who Will Dominate in 2024? In The January Issue

Featured In the January 2024 issue of Roadracing World:

Ducati’s MotoGP program is so strong that it’s hard to see any other brand overcoming the Italian factory’s dominance in 2024, especially since its eight-rider line-up will be stronger than ever, thanks to Marc Márquez’s arrival at Gresini Ducati.

Aprilia, Honda, KTM, and Yamaha engineers will do their best to catch up, but when we examine last season’s statistics, it’s a huge mountain to climb.

In 2023 Ducati won the Riders and Constructors Championships for the second year running, with a level of technical dominance not seen since Honda’s RC211V in 2002 and 2003. Desmosedici GP23s and GP22s won both the Sprint and Grand Prix races at 14 of 20 rounds, monopolized the GP podium at nine rounds, and scored 96% of available Constructors Championship points…

“The Safe Bet,” by MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley

Ducati totally dominated MotoGP in 2023 and despite new concession rules to help its rivals catch up, it’s difficult to see any other brand knocking the Italian factory out of the top spot in 2024, no matter how hard they try. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley explains why in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

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WorldSBK Test: Bulega Quickest As Rossi, Bagnaia & Marquez Join In

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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WorldSBK Test: Bulega Quickest As Rossi, Bagnaia & Marquez Join In

Pre-season testing continues in Portimao, welcoming special guests

Already the fastest rider in the Jerez test last week, Nicolo Bulega maintained his dominance by securing the top spot on Day 1 of testing at Portimao. BMW’s Toprak Razgatlioglu closely followed, finishing the day just 0.094s behind.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Valentino Rossi (46). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Three Yamaha riders completed today’s top five, with Jonathan Rea claiming third place, 0.148s behind Bulega, followed by Remy Gardner and Andrea Locatelli.

The WorldSBK grid was joined by various MotoGP™ riders on production machines at Portimao including current World Champion Francesco Bagnaia, eight-time Grand Prix World Champion Marc Marquez and also MotoGP™ Legend Valentino Rossi.

Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) showcased impressive form on Day 1 at Portimao, maintaining his momentum from the Jerez test last week. The Ducati rider clocked an impressive 1’39.932, securing the top spot. In pursuit, Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was second, just 0.094s behind Bulega. Yamaha riders made their mark, with Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon) claiming P3, narrowing the gap to Bulega to 0.148s. Teammate Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha Prometeon) secured P5, while Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) claimed P4.

Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Reigning WorldSBK Champion Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), finished three-quarters of a second off the pace in eighth. Although an improvement from his position in Jerez (P16), he appears to be grappling with both a lingering neck injury and the challenge of adapting to the ballast imposed on his bike to comply with the new combined weight rules.

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Outside the top five, Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) secured sixth place, focusing on adjustments for ergonomics at the new circuit. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished a solid day in seventh, refining the base bike and experimenting with different swingarms. Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) and Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) secured P9 and P10, respectively, both within one second of Bulega’s time. Just behind them, Bradley Ray (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was back in action after missing Jerez.

Further down the field, Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) faced challenges in 13th, indicating a need for more time to adapt to the new Honda bike. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Motocorsa Racing) and Scott Redding (Bonovo Action BMW) finished 14th and 15th, while Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) grappled with new-seat and swingarm parts, was 16th. Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) focused on bike geometry and setting refinement. Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) stayed competitive, just 1.571s behind Bulega.

In WorldSSP, Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) claimed the top spot with a 1’43.806.

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“Very good first day. I was a bit worried before starting this morning, this track is very difficult with this bike. It was difficult to be fast, so I’m really happy about the time today. This track is one of the most difficult this season and I needed to adapt a little bit because it’s really different from Supersport. My pace was good in the end, so I’m happy about today. We focused on braking because there is a lot of hard braking here, and we need to improve in that area. During the day, we were able to improve, and we know in which direction to work tomorrow. We’re already doing a great job, and I want to continue this way.”

Test_Day_Test_of_Aruba.it_Racing_Ducati_29_01_2024_Results

101st Loudon Classic: Online Registration For $250,000 Race Opens Feb. 1

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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101st Loudon Classic: Online Registration For $250,000 Race Opens Feb. 1

The 101st running of the Loudon Classic is scheduled for Saturday, June 8th, 2024, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and entries will open at noon EST on Thursday, February 1st. There are only 80 spots available, and the initial round of entries were filled in under an hour for the 2023 event. The purse for 2024 will exceed the record-breaking mark set in 2023, with $250,000 up for grabs for the Classic main event, $50,000 being offered in the ASRA Outlaw Bagger class, and $5,000 offered in the Pro Thunderbike and 500 Superbike classes. The classic will again pay back to 32nd place, and will feature a $55,000 payout to the winner.

At the discretion of the NEMRR Executive Director, the 2024 Loudon Classic will have a rain date on Sunday June 9th. All reasonable efforts will be made to run the Classic under dry track conditions. NEMRR also has plans in place to have live video streaming at the event, providing access to this historic event to race fans around the world.

The Loudon Classic main event will include dedicated practice and qualifying sessions for competitors. The rule structure will be based on the NEMRR Middleweight GP class with a provision that provides eligibility for all MotoAmerica Next Gen Supersport bikes. The top 32 racers will compete for the record-breaking purse money and a place in the record books of US racing history. The ASRA Outlaw Bagger class will have similar qualifying sessions, with the top 25 riders making the grid.

To enter after 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time February 1, riders need to visit https://nemrr.volarehq.com/ and submit the form.

For questions, riders should contact NEMRR at 603-738-2190 or email [email protected]. Sponsors interested in becoming part of the event should email John Grush at [email protected].

Former Racer, Mentor Jim Knipp, R.I.P.

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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Former AMA Pro Superbike and WERA National Championship racer and racing mentor Jim Knipp died January 18 in a hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was 64.

From Larry Lawrence’s Rider Files website:

“Knipp had been hospitalized for a couple of weeks after suffering a seizure and brain bleed and being found unconscious in his Greenwood, Indiana home. According to his stepson Joey Wertzberger, Jim regained consciousness during his first days at the hospital, but then he slipped out of consciousness and remained that way for several weeks due to a bleed in his brain and was placed on life support.”

Jim Knipp back in the day. Photo by Greg Sickmeier. — Jim Knipp back in the day. Photo by Greg Sickmeier, courtesy Rider Files.

Knipp won the 1981 C Superbike WERA National Championship and in years later took some top-20 finishes in AMA Pro Superbike races. And through the Indianapolis, Indiana shop he and partners Greg Sickmeier and Marc Wertzberger ran, The Superbike Factory, Knipp also helped several racers from central Indiana, including Lawrence, get started.

2Fast Track Days Hosting Ken Hill Masterclass At Ridge Motorsports Park

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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2Fast Track Days Hosting Ken Hill Masterclass At Ridge Motorsports Park

KEN HILL MOTORCYCLE FUNDAMENTALS MASTERCLASS

PROVIDED IN COLLABORATION WITH 2FAST TRACK DAYS

2024 SCHOOL DATES:

MAY 24–25 // JUNE 24–25 // JULY 16–17

@ RIDGE MOTORSPORTS PARK

Shelton, WA – 2Fast Track Days is thrilled to announce a novel series of rider training schools, the Ken Hill Motorcycle Fundamentals Masterclass, catering to riders of all levels who want to take their skills to new heights—and their lap times to new lows!

Join us for this cutting-edge rider development program at one of the most exciting and challenging tracks on the MotoAmerica circuit Ridge Motorsports Park, in Shelton, Washington. Take your pick of three schools scheduled for the 2024 season: May 24-25, June 24-25, and July 16-17.

The Masterclass curriculum follows Ken Hill’s Order of the Sport, which teaches the six fundamentals of motorcycle riding and best practice techniques used by the world’s top riders. The modular, step-by-step methodology is designed to help you become a faster, safer, and more confident rider, whether you just got your first bike or are an experienced racer.

Are you frustrated with one-size-fits-all coaching and getting advice on what to do, but not how to do it? The Masterclass prioritizes individualized support and instruction based on your skill level, riding goals, and learning style. Ken’s approach embraces holistic rider development and includes training both on and off the bike, combining theoretical instruction of key concepts and techniques with on-track drills to develop mental, physical, and technical mastery.

The Motorcycle Fundamentals Masterclass is divided into classroom and on-track sessions—including more riding time than a standard track day! In the classroom, Ken Hill will lead you through a comprehensive introduction to the six fundamentals of the sport: (1) Bike Placement, (2) Vision and Focus, (3) Motor Controls, (4) Brake Adjustability, (5) Turn-In Point and Turn-In Rate, and (6) Body Position and Body Timing. You’ll receive a new training handbook authored by Ken, available exclusively to Masterclass students.

Additional sessions will also focus on electronics and data, including instruction on how to collect and review video and GPS speed data to support your riding goals.

These classes will be followed by extended 45-minute sessions on the track to help you implement what you’ve learned, involving practice drills and coaching from our expert instructors. With only 15-20 riders per group, you’ll receive personalized support to achieve your riding goals. Registration is limited, so sign up early!

MASTERCLASS HIGHLIGHTS

Guaranteed 4:1 student to instructor ratio
Small groups of 15-20 riders for Novice/Low Intermediate and High Intermediate/Advanced
45-minute sessions, switching between the classroom and on-track
270 minutes total riding time per day
Exclusive Ken Hill Order of the Sport curriculum handbook provided for classroom workshops
Drinks, snacks, and catered lunch provided on both days
Motorcycle rentals and insurance are available (please inquire via email)

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

Day 1

Day 2

Classroom sessions:

• Bike placement

• Reference points and vision

• Motor controls

• Brake adjustability

• Body position

Classroom sessions:

• Building a feedback loop

• Slowest point of the corner

• Throttle control

• Electronics and data

• What’s holding you back?

On-track drills and sessions:

• Identifying correct bike placement

• Reference points

• Vision timing

• Motor controls and brake release point

• High speed awareness

• Open lapping

On-track drills and sessions:

• Establishing precise bike placement

• Slowest point of the corner

• Initial throttle

• Collecting data

• Body position and body timing

• Open lapping

ABOUT KEN HILL

Ken Hill raced motorcycles for over 20 years before making the switch to professional coaching. Over the last 15 years, he has produced and worked with numerous national championship-winning riders, including JD Beach and Hayden Gillim. He first started coaching at the Freddie Spencer High Performance Riding School from 2003-2008, then served as lead instructor for its successor, the Yamaha Champions Riding School, until 2015. He also led and developed the curriculum for the Rick Development Camp for aspiring championship racers, served as head coach and crew chief for the Rickdiculous racing team at MotoAmerica, and directed riding programs and schools for track day organizers and riders across the country. Currently, he runs the MotoAmerica Supersport program for CJ LaRoche, and continues to work with other riders, drivers, and track day providers through his private company, Ken Hill Coaching. Online, you can find his work and educational resources by listening to his podcast or subscribing to his Substack: Motorsports Coaching.

ABOUT 2FAST TRACK DAYS

Founded in 2003, 2Fast Motorcycle Track Days & Instruction is the longest running track day organization in the Pacific Northwest. We pride ourselves on offering professionally-run, punctual events that provide the safest environment possible, with high levels of customer service, riding instruction, and customer value, guaranteeing a riding experience second to none. 2Fast has decades of experience establishing itself as the premier track day organization in the region, organizing high-end events throughout the PNW, giving riders the track time they want at the tracks they want to ride. Our staff of trained instructors, on-track marshals, and veteran corner workers welcomes all riders, no matter your speed or skill level, to ensure every one of our guests has the finest track day experience money can buy. Check out 2Fast’s full 2024 schedule and get more information online at www.2-fast.org.

For Masterclass inquiries, please contact us at [email protected].

Learn more:

Website: www.2-fast.org

Instagram: @2fasttrackdays

Facebook: www.facebook.com/2FastLLC

MotoGP: Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Officially Introduced (Includes Video)

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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MotoGP: Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Officially Introduced (Includes Video)

NEW-LOOK GASGAS MOTOGP™ GETS RED BULL POWER FOR 2024 CHARGE!

2024 MotoGP news

Get on the GAS for 2024 with wings, extra promise, and a lot of excitement! Augusto Fernandez, Pedro Acosta and Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 accelerate the changes for the forthcoming season.

Don’t miss our super-cool 2024 Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 introduction where the youngest and wildest line-up on the MotoGP grid usher in the second season of Grand Prix action!

First-up, official pre-season tests in Malaysia and Qatar but then there is tonnes of anticipation for the fresh world championship campaign, that will launch with the Grand Prix of Qatar at the Lusail International Circuit on March 9-10. The dash under the lights will be the first of 22 rounds and 44 outings (2024 will be the second term of the Saturday Sprint format) across the globe and into the month of November.

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 are strapped and eager for the red lights to go out thanks to their vibrant rider roster. 2022 Moto2™ World Champion and 2023 MotoGP Rookie of the Year Augusto Fernandez will tackle his sophomore attempt at the premier class with the GASGAS RC16 and will be aiming to better a ‘PB’ race result of 4th from 2023 as well as enter the top ten of the championship standings. The 26-year-old is, of course, joined by fellow Spaniard and reigning Moto2 #1 Pedro Acosta. The 19-year-old already has Moto3 and Moto2 titles in just three years of GP competition and comes to the MotoGP fray with deserved hype and expectation. 2024 will be his first taste of the demands and technical complexities of MotoGP and the initial step of what could be a truly spectacular career.

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 is again led by Nicolas Goyon, for the second season in a row, and with excellent back up from the likes of Pol Espargaro in a test rider and supporting role and the team’s loyal band of partners and suppliers.

Augusto Fernandez: “Everything was new and there was a lot to learn last year but there were points towards the end of the season where I felt fast and like I had the speed. I felt comfortable riding the bike but as a rookie you had to be very patient and trust the process. When I finished 2023 I analyzed the season and saw I had made the steps I needed to take. I am looking forward to this year because I now have the references of each track with the GASGAS RC16 and I know on Fridays we need to put a lot of input because it can decide much of the weekend. I’m super-proud to be partnering with Red Bull, and to have them on the bike. It’s a dream and we have everything we need to perform. It’s in our hands so let’s go for it.”

Pedro Acosta: “If I think about my career and journey so far then it is quite nice! Nice to say I had the opportunity to ride for a factory team in my first season, nice to say I won two titles in three years, it is nice to say I come into a factory team for the first season in MotoGP. But it is also quite tough to play with the pressure, to play with the comments. I don’t want to think about results at the moment. I just have one day on the bike, and it is not the time to talk about results or targets because it is not realistic. I will try to enjoy the Malaysia test and try to get as much experience as I can to try and be competitive at the beginning of the season but during that we also need to take race experience to grow step-by-step.”

Nicolas Goyon, Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Manager: “In 2023 we had a lot of changes. We had this new Sprint format, and the new team structure but this means we are set and ready for the coming season. Augusto was strong for his rookie season. Of course, we all expect him to improve for 2024.He is very calm! He always takes some time to think about what has happened on the track and then to explain the technique and his feelings. This is something super-important for the team to develop and set-up the bike. Pedro is a great talent but my message for the fans would be ‘be patient’. You know, it is not so easy for a rookie to perform. It is complicated now with ride-height devices and a lot of electronics. The format of the weekend is also complicated and something to learn. Let’s give him time. For me, the 2024 Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 line-up will be even closer to the fans. Both riders are young, and we know this is the main target for GASGAS, to connect and excite all those that watch MotoGP.”

Hervé Poncharal, Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Principal: “One of the very exciting things that has happened this winter is the return of Red Bull with Tech3, and we are extremely happy to have them again featuring on our MotoGP™ bike. This season will be more exciting than ever, with a very competitive grid: riders and technical packages are so close to each other, so I truly believe that we are set for an amazing show. Augusto Fernandez learnt a lot last year, and he is ready to perform and fight for top positions. One of the most exciting prospects that MotoGP™ has known in recent years, Pedro Acosta, will line up for us. His first day at the Valencia test gave us the insurance that he has everything to have a brilliant rookie season, and we are looking forward to heading to Sepang to kick things off!”

Pit Beirer, GASGAS Motorsport Director: “2023 was a very intense year for our first season with GASGAS on the grid but Augusto came in with a great approach – he is super-positive and a fighter – and gave us a highlight in Le Mans with his 4th position. I feel the team adapted really well over the whole season and I’m looking forward to seeing what Augusto can do in his second go. With Pedro I think the whole paddock and community agrees that there is a diamond coming up in this sport. He is a very special rider, a unique rider who has already broken so many records at a young age.Pedro will make us better and stronger for the future, so we are happy to have him. I feel GASGAS is a very dynamic brand, and looking to the team spirit with these two fantastic athletes it is definitely the one to watch out for in ’24.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, Member of the Board, Pierer Mobility AG: “One of the reasons why we went with GASGAS into MotoGP was to create brand awareness and it worked perfectly. MotoGP is, by far, the biggest and most successful platform because the media value and the public attendance is immense and we are absolutely happy we made that move. We now have a very exciting combination of Augusto and Pedro and a motorcycle that has proven it is ready for trophies. We know it will be a long season and the Sprints have been challenging: the really positive thing is that the fans really appreciate [the Sprints], the action on Saturday, and frankly speaking I also like it. At the end of the day the guys are racers. It’s great to have Red Bull onboard this year and I think the 2024 livery looks fantastic.”

MotoAmerica: BellissiMoto Sponsoring Twins Cup

David Swarts

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January 29, 2024

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MotoAmerica: BellissiMoto Sponsoring Twins Cup

BellissiMoto Now The Title Sponsor Of MotoAmerica Twins Cup Series

Exotic Motorcycle Parts, Gear And Accessories Importer/Distributor Set For Title Sponsorship Of Highly Competitive Twins Cup Class

IRVINE, CA (January 29, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce BellissiMoto as the new title sponsor of the 2024 MotoAmerica BellissiMoto Twins Cup Championship.

BellissiMoto is the new title sponsor of the 2024 BellissiMoto Twins Cup Championship.
Established in 2008 and headquartered in its showroom in Las Vegas, Nevada, importer/distributor BellissiMoto boasts an inventory of motorcycle parts, gear, and accessories from hundreds of the world’s top brands.

“We’re really happy to have BellissiMoto come onboard as the title sponsor of the MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Director of Sponsorship. “Everyone at BellissiMoto is a racing fan and they are going to be wonderful partners for MotoAmerica. Plus, the brands they carry are the brands our actual racers and fans have been purchasing from them and using in competition every year since MotoAmerica started so the fit is a natural one.”

“BellissiMoto loves racing,” said BellissiMoto President Randy Nedescu. “Since our founding in 2008, BellissiMoto has been dedicated to fueling the racing dreams of riders and teams worldwide. Our support extends across prestigious events and championships, including the Daytona 200, Pikes Peak Hill Climb, CVMA, WERA, AHRMA, MotoAmerica, and many more. Whether sponsoring rookies or supporting seasoned veterans, we consistently provide topnotch parts and gear to numerous racers each year. We’ve also done plenty of racing outright by ourselves like a few years ago when our employee Javelin Broderick raced in the Supersport class and, more recently, Paul Geldziler in Twins Cup. This year looks to be more competitive than ever, and we’re very proud and excited to become the title sponsor for Twins Cup for 2024.”

Last year’s BellissiMoto Twins Cup Championship was won by Blake Davis in a title chase that went to the very last race of the series at New Jersey Motorsports Park in September.

For more information, visit www.bellissimoto.com.

Bridgestone Fielding Daley And Young On Suzukis In Daytona 200

January 30, 2024

2023 Bridgestone CSBK Champion Ben Young. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK.

Bridgestone at Daytona 200: Top Canadian Superbike Riders Ben Young and Trevor Daley Join Team BATTLAX

Bridgestone partners with 2023 Canadian Superbike champion Ben Young and Suzuki Canada rider Trevor Daley to form Team BATTLAX.
Young and Daley will debut on the Bridgestone-backed effort, Team BATTLAX, at the Daytona 200 March 7-9, 2024.
Team BATTLAX to race on identical custom Suzuki Canada GSX-R750 builds featuring Bridgestone BATTLAX race tires.