Newly crowned World Champion Nicolo Bulega stormed to pole position during World Supersport qualifying Saturday at Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2, Bulega shredded the 2.75-mile (4.42 km) course in 1:41.823, giving the Italian his 10th pole position in the 12-round season.
Federico Caricasulo was the best of the rest with a 1:42.410 on his Althea Racing Team Ducati, and Marcel Schroetter earned the third and final spot on the front row with a time of 1:42.690 on his MV Agusta Reparto Corsa F3 800 RR.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport star Valentin Debise qualified ninth with a run of 1:43.120 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R6.
Fermin Aldeguer earned pole position during Moto2 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding a Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro, the Spaniard navigated the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) race course in 1:35.371 to top the field of 30 riders.
American Joe Roberts qualified 10th with a time of 1:35.970, just 0.599 seconds off Aldeguer’s time, on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
Deniz Oncu topped Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. The Red Bull KTM Ajo rider covered the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) circuit in 1:42.061 to lead the field of 30 riders.
Jorge Martin took pole position during MotoGP World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard lapped the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) track in 1:29.287, which shattered Marco Bezzecchi’s 2022 All-Time Lap Record of 1:29.671.
Luca Marini was second-best with a 1:29.425 on his Mooney VR46 Racing Team Ducati, and Aleix Espargaro earned the third and final spot on the front row with a time of 1:29.461 on his factory Aprilia RS-GP.
Martin comes out on top in pole battle royal in Buriram
Martin heads Marini and Aleix Espargaro, Bezzecchi and Binder pip Bagnaia as the Championship leader gets bumped down to sixth
Saturday, 28 October 2023
Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) has won the first battle of the OR Thailand Grand Prix as his 1:29.287 saw him top the pile in qualifying to take the new all-time lap record. With points to be scored and Championship positions to fight for, it could be key as Championship leader Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) starts down in sixth but still holds that 27-point advantage.
Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) lines up alongside Martin in the middle of the front row after a late attack for glory, with Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) snatching the final front row spot to back up a positive Friday from the number 41 too.
Q1
The gloves were off in Q1 as some of MotoGP™’s finest engaged in an intense time-attack battle. Red sectors came flying in as the chequered flag beckoned, with the likes of Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Raul Fernandez (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team), and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) all looking to threaten.
However, it was set to be Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) and Di Giannantonio who were going to go through until a last-minute stunner from Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) saw him top the session, demoting his brother to P2 and his teammate out of a Q2 spot.
Q2
As Q2 began, Martin came out of the blocks guns blazing as he made his intentions known, setting the first benchmark and beating the all-time lap record.
As they came back into pitlane after the first runs it was the Spaniard leading the way, with Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) his closest challengers. The battle was nowhere near over, however, and it would go right to the wire.
With the second stint underway it was Bezzecchi who struck first as he bettered Martin’s time, but by just 0.008s. Bagnaia then decided it was time to join the party as he joined his title rivals in the top three too.
The red sectors came flying in once again though, and it was Martin lighting up the timing screens once again. The Spaniard had the bit firmly between his teeth as he pulled out a stunner to smash the lap record, move the goalposts by two tenths, and ultimately take pole position for the Thai GP.
With Bezzecchi and Bagnaia failing to go any quicker and hot laps coming in from all directions, naturally the order reshuffled in the final moments. Marini and Aleix Espargaro put in their flyers right at the end as they stormed onto the front row, demoting Bezzechhi to P4.
Binder was another who improved in the closing stages as the South African slotted in just behind Bezzecchi to demote Championship leader Bagnaia down another spot to P6, making it a blockbuster second row comprising three of the four riders still in mathematical contention for the crown. The other? He starts from pole.
THE GRID
Behind Martin, Marini and Aleix Espargaro there’s Bezzecchi, Binder and Bagnaia all raring to gain places from the off and with some serious track records of having done so.
Row 3 is headed by Alex Marquez, with the number 73 pipping Marc Marquez by just 0.022 as the duo also made it through from Q1. Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) is alongside the two, with the margin back to Top Gun just 0.079 as he takes ninth. Viñales will most definitely be looking for more when the lights go out after proving second quickest on Friday.
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) will be disappointed with P10 after the Frenchman said on Friday that a good qualifying could help him push for a podium, and he heads Phillip Island winner Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) and Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) on Row 4.
Martin starts from the front once more, Bagnaia is looking to move through and the likes of Marini, Aleix Espargaro and Binder all want to stand in his way. Make sure to tune in for a pivotal Saturday showdown!
Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki MotoAmerica Superbike racer Brandon Paasch has undergone successful surgery on his left shoulder.
“I’ve been having a problem with my shoulder for the past year and a half, two years,” Paasch told Roadracingworld.com. “Right after I signed with Altus [Motorsports], I went and tested their bike. I highsided the thing and knocked myself out. That’s why I missed the first race of 2022. I’ve been having a problem with my shoulder ever since. It will just pop out at random times. It popped out during the red flag at Circuit of The Americas this year. We just decided we needed to get it fixed.”
Paasch said the diagnoses was that the labrum in his shoulder was torn. The labrum is a “thick tissue or type of cartilage,” according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, that helps keep the upper arm bone [the humerus] in the shoulder joint.
The surgery was performed by track day rider and road racing fan Dr. Thomas Bryan on October 25 at San Gabriel Valley Surgery Center in West Covina, California.
“He had to go in and re-attach it [the labrum] with some anchors and put it back in the right spot. It was a pretty short surgery, like about 90 minutes. I was in and out the same day,” said Paasch. “It’s pretty crazy. I’ve been riding like this for about two years now. I think once it’s healed I’m going to be a completely different version of myself, because for the last two years now, even on my training days and test days, I’m not going to my full potential because I’m worried about my shoulder coming out.
“But also at the same time, I wasn’t using it as an excuse. I wasn’t telling anybody what was going on. I was just kind of dealing with it on my own, keeping it quiet. Obviously, the team knew about it because Chris [Ulrich, Team Hammer Vice President of Operations/Team Manager] was there when I originally dislocated my shoulder.
“I’m not someone who is big on excuses. I don’t want people thinking that I’m making excuses for myself why I’m not getting results or why I’m struggling a little bit here and there. So, I just kept it to myself until I could get it fixed.”
Paasch said he is flying home to Florida on Saturday, October 28, and expected to be fully recovered and ready to resume riding in eight to 10 weeks.
BMW of North America/BMW Motorrad USA has lifted the “temporary, voluntary stop sale” directive it sent to its dealers in September.
On September 19, BMW sent a message to its dealers that read in part:
“BMW of North America is dedicated to providing vehicles to our customers that meet their expectations. To ensure that our vehicles are of the highest industry standards, BMW performs ongoing testing and evaluation.
“Following a recent quality analysis, BMW is pursuing measures to further evaluate the material used in a component of its motorcycle evaporative system, which may not have been produced to material specifications.
“As a result, BMW of North America is issuing a temporary, voluntary stop sale for all new and pre-owned BMW motorcycle models in dealer inventory, except for the CE 04.”
Just one week later, BMWNA lifted the order with the following message to its dealers:
“BMW Motorrad USA has announced that the Engineering Division has concluded our testing and evaluation and have determined that the voluntary stop sale measures can be lifted.
“Dealers may resume the sale of all new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles as of Friday September 29th.”
Honda Announces Return of Iconic On-Road Models for 2024
October 27, 2023 — ALPHARETTA, Georgia
Six models across three categories are included in the announcement
Gold Wing, Fury, Rebel 1100, Rebel 500 and Rebel 300 receive new colors
Renowned for its wide range of two-wheel offerings, American Honda today announced the return of six on-road motorcycle models, spanning the touring, cruiser and adventure categories. From beginner-friendly cruisers to advanced touring machines, the announcement showcases the depth of Honda’s lineup and its commitment to riders of all segments and experience levels.
Headlining the announcement are the category-defining Gold Wing and the flagship Rebel 1100, both of which are offered in new colors for 2024. Well-equipped for long-distance rides, the comfortable Gold Wing leads the way when it comes touring performance. The Rebel 1100 offers the freedom, enjoyment and style of a modern cruiser, along with Honda’s legendary reliability and ease of ownership. For 2024, the bagger-style Rebel 1100T is offered in a 6-speed manual transmission version, in addition to the automatic DCT version that was released last year.
Also included in the announcement are the industry’s most popular entry-level cruisers, the Rebel 300 and Rebel 500, both sporting new colors. With a signature raked-out front end, the Fury continues to deliver classic chopper styling, but with refined Honda handling and a new color for 2024. Rounding out the announcement is the remarkably versatile NC750X, boasting comfort and convenience for around-town commuting and weekend adventures.
Gold Wing
When it comes to long, multi-day rides through winding backroads and stretches of open highway, few motorcycles can measure up to the smooth, gliding ride and refined technology of Honda’s legendary Gold Wing. This touring icon continues to set the standard for the category with substantial storage capacity, a premium sound system, convenient navigation software and, most importantly, unmatched ride quality. Whether it’s covering miles on the highway or carving through a scenic mountain pass, the Gold Wing’s relaxed riding position, comfortable seat, robust wind protection and premium suspension amount to a remarkably luxurious experience for both the rider and passenger. Plus, with a famously smooth 1,833cc six-cylinder engine and available automatic DCT gearbox, hitting the open road has never felt this good.
A 2024 Honda Gold Wing DCT. Photo courtesy American Honda.
MSRP
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: $33,000
Gold Wing Tour DCT: $29,700
Gold Wing Tour: $28,700
Gold Wing DCT: $25,700
Gold Wing: $24,700
Colors
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: Pearl White
Gold Wing Tour DCT: Gray Metallic/Black; Pearl White
While many choppers compromise ride quality for styling, Honda’s Fury is the rare exception. With unmistakable chopper styling and Honda’s renowned fit, finish and functionality, the Fury offers the best of both worlds. Honda’s engineers achieved impressive handling characteristics and suspension performance while maintaining the raked-out front end and hard-tail styling that defines the chopper category. Meanwhile, the 1,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine sounds as good as it looks and has plenty of torque on tap. For 2024, The Fury’s head-turning style is amplified with a new Adventure Green color.
From long-distance highway touring to relaxed weekend rides on winding backroads and spirited canyon carving, the Rebel 1100 embodies dynamic cruiser performance. For riders that gravitate toward the traditional cruiser experience, the Rebel 1100 (manual transmission) and Rebel 1100 DCT (automatic dual clutch transmission) boast sporty handling and a clean, contemporary design. The Rebel 1100T on the other hand, touts “bagger” styling with a large handlebar fairing and hard color-matched saddlebags that offer a combined 35 liters of space, giving riders added comfort and cargo storage for longer excursions. For 2024, the Rebel 1100T is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, in addition to the automatic DCT version that was released last year.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 1100. Photo courtesy American Honda.
MSRP
Rebel 1100T DCT: $11,349
Rebel 1100T: $10,699
Rebel 1100 DCT: $10,149
Rebel 1100: $9,549
Colors
Rebel 1100T DCT: Metallic Black; Matte Armored Green Metallic
Rebel 1100T: Metallic Black; Matte Armored Green Metallic
A modern cruiser through and through, the Rebel 500 is all about maximizing the freedom and exhilaration that can only be found on a motorcycle. Starting with its timeless yet aggressive styling, this hugely popular cruiser turns heads wherever it goes, with an iconic peanut fuel tank, blacked-out components and wide tires. The 471cc parallel-twin engine matches strong bottom-end torque with smooth delivery for a user-friendly powerband that makes the Rebel fun to ride, both in the canyons and around town. With relaxed ergonomics and well-balanced handling, the chassis and suspension prioritize rider comfort and control. The Rebel 500 is available in standard and ABS versions, as well as a limited-edition ABS SE trim level that comes with some of Honda’s most popular accessories installed from the factory.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 500. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Approachable, stylish and fun are all adjectives that describe Honda’s Rebel 300. Between the low seat height, comfortable ergonomics, balanced handling and linear power delivery, this model offers a sense of confidence that allows new riders to build their skills as they progress on their motorcycling journey. The reliable 286cc engine provides plenty of power for getting around town or cruising on the highway. Of course, the Rebel looks the part as well, with timeless cruiser styling that’s amplified by the recognizable peanut fuel tank, blacked-out engine components and LED lighting. Available in standard and ABS versions, the Rebel 300 offers user-friendly performance that’s particularly appreciated by new riders.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 300. Photo courtesy American Honda.
As the jack-of-all-trades in Honda’s on-road two-wheel lineup, the NC750X is as competent at making quick work of the daily commute as it is at getting off the grid on remote backroads. A powerful, liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin engine is paired with Honda’s high-tech automatic dual clutch transmission for efficient power delivery and ease of operation. Meanwhile, the balanced chassis and quality suspension ensure nimble handling and a comfortable ride. For both commuting and exploring, the upright riding position optimizes rider comfort, and the robust storage solutions allow space for additional gear and supplies. Plus, with Honda’s renowned reliability and an affordable MSRP, the NC750X offers a combination of adventure and utility that’s tough to beat.
A 2024 Honda NC750X. Photo courtesy American Honda.
“Never seen it so close”: Martin fastest before a crash, Aprilia on the chase
The Martinator dominates before a late tumble, Bagnaia through to Q2, Aprilia fast on a Friday of tiny margins
Friday, 27 October 2023
Day 1 of the OR Thailand Grand Prix was seriously close. Despite the tiny margins, however, Prima Pramac Racing’s Jorge Martin took to the top of the pile once more, fastest in both sessions on Friday and that despite a late tumble too. His stunning 1:28.826 is just two-tenths shy of the all-time lap record. The Aprilia Racing duo are looking very strong as well, with Maverick Viñales finishing the day just 0.098s from Martin and Aleix Espargaro only another 0.062s back. The top three were split by just 0.160s.
Maverick Vinales (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Glory to gravel
With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before engaging in full time-attack mode.
Martin got his flyer in right in the closing stages and demoted the Aprilias down a spot each. The Spaniard then went from hero to zero just after, however, after a Turn 3 mistake saw his Prima Pramac machine skating through the gravel trap.
Martin’s teammate was another who improved right at the end. Fresh from finally tasting victory in the premier class, Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) showed good promise as he finished just 0.020s shy of the top three.
Aleix Espargaro (41). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Three tenths covering the top 10
Next up was the Mooney VR46 Racing Team duo of Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi. Both still recovering from injury, both riders picked up automatic Q2 positions in 5th and 6th respectively.
Reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) looked like he could be under a little pressure, but the #1 ultimately finished the day in seventh. it’s not the top of the timesheets, but it’s the first time in three Grands Prix that the Championship leader will be going directly into Q2 as he ensures himself a sligtly less stressful Saturday morning.
The Yamahas also showed decent potential in Thailand. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) consistently kept himself within the top ten and finished the day in P8, saying a good qualifying could see him fight for the podium, ahead of Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and rookie Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3).
The Q1 battle
Q1 is set to be a tense affair as always with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) being the first rider to miss out on Q2. The number 93 also go caught out by a rogue wing from Martin’s machine.
The eight-time Champion will have to battle it out with Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), recent form Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), and Pol Espargaro (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) to decide who will take the final two Q2 spots. The whole grid is split by just 1.2 seconds!
Despite that late crash, it’s advantage Martin as they head into Saturday. Can Bagnaia do anything about the Spaniard’s pace? Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds in Thailand!
Pedro Acosta (37). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Acosta edges out Ramirez and Aldeguer on Day 1
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Pedro Acosta made his intentions known on Day 1 of the OR Thailand Grand Prix as he sets his sights on wrapping up the 2023 Moto2™ title. After topping Practice 1, the Spaniard went even quicker in Practice 2 as his 1:35.985 saw him snatch the top spot once more, but by just 0.014s. Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) was the closest to the Championship leader. The Spaniard put in an impressive Day 1 performance as he joined Acosta in the 1:35 club to finish P2 ahead of Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp).
Somkiat Chantra (35). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) is looking determined as he runs a special livery on his Triumph-powered Moto2™ machine at his home Grand Prix (see below!). The Thai rider bagged P4 on Day 1 as he sits just 0.189s away from the top spot.
Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) rounded out the top five ahead of Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) who had a positive start to his weekend in P6. Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) was 0.029s back from the Brit in P7 with Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) taking 8th. Dennis Foggia (Italtrans Racing Team) put in an impressive time to finish 3rd in Practice 1, and although the Italian failed to improve in Practice 2 his time held strong as he bagged P9 ahead of compatriot and Championship challenger Tony Arbolino (Elf MarcVDS Racing Team), who rounded out the top ten.
Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +7)!
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Moto3™: Masia reignites his charge with a clean sweep on Friday
Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) put in an impressive day’s work to open the weekend’s Moto3™ action at the OR Thailand Grand Prix. The Spaniard’s 1:42.318 saw him improve his Practice 1 time by just 0.001s, but was more than enough to secure him top honours on Day 1. David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) was also looking very strong and made a big step in Practice 2, putting himself into P2 as he got to grips with Buriram. Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), winner in Indonesia, bounced back from a tough Australian GP as he secured a top three on Day 1 in Thailand.
Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) had another strong showing as the rookie found himself just 0.073s away from the top three in P4. Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) has looked strong from the off too, and the Japanese rider rounded out the top five with Australian GP winner Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and first time podium finisher at Phillip Island, Joel Kelso (CFMOTO Racing PrüstelGP), slotting in just behind in 6th and 7th.
Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) had a solid day at the office as he took P8. The Spaniard was 0.602s slower than his title rival Masia, but does currently have 0.140s over another key rival, Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), who finished in P10 just behind Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse).
Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +7)!
Toprak Razgatlioglu was quickest in World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Jerez, in Spain. Riding his Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1, the Turkish star covered the 2.7-mile (4.4 km) track in 1:40.312 to lead the field of 24 riders.
In spite of crashing early in the session, American Garrett Gerloff was seventh overall and the fastest BMW rider with a 1:41.258 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
Most of the field sat out Free Practice One (FP1), which offered cold and wet track conditions.
Bautista poised for Championship triumph in Jerez as Razgatlioglu leads Day 1
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
In a pivotal day of WorldSBK action at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, FP2 showcased fierce competition, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) leading the way. The first session had been a quiet affair, with only four riders setting lap times on a damp track.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) had a minor setback when he crashed during FP2 but recovered to finish third, which combined with his Championship lead, puts him on the brink of a potential Championship-clinching performance from in Race 1.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) secured second place overall with teammate Dominique Aegerter finishing in fifth place, only split by Bautista’s stablemate Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) as Friday action finished.
Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) completed the top six while Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) had a challenging day finishing in 13th.
Toprak Razgatlioglu led the charge in FP2 for his last weekend with Yamaha, aiming to challenge Bautista’s dominance.
P1 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“Friday was difficult because nobody rides in FP1, because the track conditions were strange. In FP2, everybody’s riding and I’m feeling less grip. This is not just my problem; all riders are feeling the same. My bike is worse than the others because I’m feeling just spinning, no grip and no turning. We have some positives. I hope we are improving the bike tomorrow; I just need a little bit more grip for good pace. I did a good lap time, but I need good pace. Now, I’m not really strong.
Bautista is very strong and this track and I just tried to follow him to understand which areas his bike is very strong. The exit of Turn 5, he’s unbelievably fast. And the last corner exit, there’s a big gap. I’m just trying to find which corner I can catch him. I see this and I understand. I just need a good setup because I feel a lot of spinning. I’m still fighting for the win. I hope tomorrow I have much better feel with the bike and first I need a good Superpole, then a good race. I hope I’m fighting like at Portimao; then I’m feeling the bike better and starting to enjoy. I’m focused and hungry to win.”
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista, although third in FP2, is in an advantageous position, with the Championship within his grasp in Race 1, a testament to his season-long efforts.
P3 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“Every day that I enjoy the bike is a great day and today I enjoyed it! Tomorrow, the approach is to keep this feeling and to work well; I hope the track is in better condition. The track is so nice when the conditions are good. There is nothing that will change for tomorrow. Firstly, I try to be away from everyone saying, “You’ll win tomorrow! You’ll win tomorrow.” I’m the first person that knows I have the match point tomorrow.”
Newly crowned World Champion Nicolo Bulega did the best lap time in World Supersport Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday at Jerez, in Spain. After sitting out the cold and wet Free Practice One, Bulega used his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2 to do a 1:43.171 around the 2.7-mile (4.4 km) circuit and lead the field of 31 competitors.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport front-runner Valentin Debise was fifth in FP2 with a 1:44.123 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R6.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Aruba.it Racing Ducati.
Newly crowned World Champion Nicolo Bulega stormed to pole position during World Supersport qualifying Saturday at Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2, Bulega shredded the 2.75-mile (4.42 km) course in 1:41.823, giving the Italian his 10th pole position in the 12-round season.
Federico Caricasulo was the best of the rest with a 1:42.410 on his Althea Racing Team Ducati, and Marcel Schroetter earned the third and final spot on the front row with a time of 1:42.690 on his MV Agusta Reparto Corsa F3 800 RR.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport star Valentin Debise qualified ninth with a run of 1:43.120 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R6.
Fermin Aldeguer (54). Photo courtesy Team SpeedUp.
Fermin Aldeguer earned pole position during Moto2 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding a Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro, the Spaniard navigated the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) race course in 1:35.371 to top the field of 30 riders.
American Joe Roberts qualified 10th with a time of 1:35.970, just 0.599 seconds off Aldeguer’s time, on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
Deniz Oncu (53) and his Red Bull KTM Ajo teammate Jose Rueda (99) in action in Thailand. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Deniz Oncu topped Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. The Red Bull KTM Ajo rider covered the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) circuit in 1:42.061 to lead the field of 30 riders.
Jorge Martin took pole position during MotoGP World Championship qualifying Saturday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard lapped the 2.84-mile (4.55 km) track in 1:29.287, which shattered Marco Bezzecchi’s 2022 All-Time Lap Record of 1:29.671.
Luca Marini was second-best with a 1:29.425 on his Mooney VR46 Racing Team Ducati, and Aleix Espargaro earned the third and final spot on the front row with a time of 1:29.461 on his factory Aprilia RS-GP.
Martin comes out on top in pole battle royal in Buriram
Martin heads Marini and Aleix Espargaro, Bezzecchi and Binder pip Bagnaia as the Championship leader gets bumped down to sixth
Saturday, 28 October 2023
Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) has won the first battle of the OR Thailand Grand Prix as his 1:29.287 saw him top the pile in qualifying to take the new all-time lap record. With points to be scored and Championship positions to fight for, it could be key as Championship leader Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) starts down in sixth but still holds that 27-point advantage.
Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) lines up alongside Martin in the middle of the front row after a late attack for glory, with Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) snatching the final front row spot to back up a positive Friday from the number 41 too.
Q1
The gloves were off in Q1 as some of MotoGP™’s finest engaged in an intense time-attack battle. Red sectors came flying in as the chequered flag beckoned, with the likes of Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Raul Fernandez (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team), and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) all looking to threaten.
However, it was set to be Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) and Di Giannantonio who were going to go through until a last-minute stunner from Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) saw him top the session, demoting his brother to P2 and his teammate out of a Q2 spot.
Q2
As Q2 began, Martin came out of the blocks guns blazing as he made his intentions known, setting the first benchmark and beating the all-time lap record.
As they came back into pitlane after the first runs it was the Spaniard leading the way, with Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) his closest challengers. The battle was nowhere near over, however, and it would go right to the wire.
With the second stint underway it was Bezzecchi who struck first as he bettered Martin’s time, but by just 0.008s. Bagnaia then decided it was time to join the party as he joined his title rivals in the top three too.
The red sectors came flying in once again though, and it was Martin lighting up the timing screens once again. The Spaniard had the bit firmly between his teeth as he pulled out a stunner to smash the lap record, move the goalposts by two tenths, and ultimately take pole position for the Thai GP.
With Bezzecchi and Bagnaia failing to go any quicker and hot laps coming in from all directions, naturally the order reshuffled in the final moments. Marini and Aleix Espargaro put in their flyers right at the end as they stormed onto the front row, demoting Bezzechhi to P4.
Binder was another who improved in the closing stages as the South African slotted in just behind Bezzecchi to demote Championship leader Bagnaia down another spot to P6, making it a blockbuster second row comprising three of the four riders still in mathematical contention for the crown. The other? He starts from pole.
THE GRID
Behind Martin, Marini and Aleix Espargaro there’s Bezzecchi, Binder and Bagnaia all raring to gain places from the off and with some serious track records of having done so.
Row 3 is headed by Alex Marquez, with the number 73 pipping Marc Marquez by just 0.022 as the duo also made it through from Q1. Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) is alongside the two, with the margin back to Top Gun just 0.079 as he takes ninth. Viñales will most definitely be looking for more when the lights go out after proving second quickest on Friday.
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) will be disappointed with P10 after the Frenchman said on Friday that a good qualifying could help him push for a podium, and he heads Phillip Island winner Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) and Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) on Row 4.
Martin starts from the front once more, Bagnaia is looking to move through and the likes of Marini, Aleix Espargaro and Binder all want to stand in his way. Make sure to tune in for a pivotal Saturday showdown!
Brandon Paasch (96) at speed at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki MotoAmerica Superbike racer Brandon Paasch has undergone successful surgery on his left shoulder.
“I’ve been having a problem with my shoulder for the past year and a half, two years,” Paasch told Roadracingworld.com. “Right after I signed with Altus [Motorsports], I went and tested their bike. I highsided the thing and knocked myself out. That’s why I missed the first race of 2022. I’ve been having a problem with my shoulder ever since. It will just pop out at random times. It popped out during the red flag at Circuit of The Americas this year. We just decided we needed to get it fixed.”
Paasch said the diagnoses was that the labrum in his shoulder was torn. The labrum is a “thick tissue or type of cartilage,” according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, that helps keep the upper arm bone [the humerus] in the shoulder joint.
The surgery was performed by track day rider and road racing fan Dr. Thomas Bryan on October 25 at San Gabriel Valley Surgery Center in West Covina, California.
“He had to go in and re-attach it [the labrum] with some anchors and put it back in the right spot. It was a pretty short surgery, like about 90 minutes. I was in and out the same day,” said Paasch. “It’s pretty crazy. I’ve been riding like this for about two years now. I think once it’s healed I’m going to be a completely different version of myself, because for the last two years now, even on my training days and test days, I’m not going to my full potential because I’m worried about my shoulder coming out.
“But also at the same time, I wasn’t using it as an excuse. I wasn’t telling anybody what was going on. I was just kind of dealing with it on my own, keeping it quiet. Obviously, the team knew about it because Chris [Ulrich, Team Hammer Vice President of Operations/Team Manager] was there when I originally dislocated my shoulder.
“I’m not someone who is big on excuses. I don’t want people thinking that I’m making excuses for myself why I’m not getting results or why I’m struggling a little bit here and there. So, I just kept it to myself until I could get it fixed.”
Paasch said he is flying home to Florida on Saturday, October 28, and expected to be fully recovered and ready to resume riding in eight to 10 weeks.
A 2023 BMW 2023 R 1250 RS sport tourer. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad USA.
BMW of North America/BMW Motorrad USA has lifted the “temporary, voluntary stop sale” directive it sent to its dealers in September.
On September 19, BMW sent a message to its dealers that read in part:
“BMW of North America is dedicated to providing vehicles to our customers that meet their expectations. To ensure that our vehicles are of the highest industry standards, BMW performs ongoing testing and evaluation.
“Following a recent quality analysis, BMW is pursuing measures to further evaluate the material used in a component of its motorcycle evaporative system, which may not have been produced to material specifications.
“As a result, BMW of North America is issuing a temporary, voluntary stop sale for all new and pre-owned BMW motorcycle models in dealer inventory, except for the CE 04.”
Just one week later, BMWNA lifted the order with the following message to its dealers:
“BMW Motorrad USA has announced that the Engineering Division has concluded our testing and evaluation and have determined that the voluntary stop sale measures can be lifted.
“Dealers may resume the sale of all new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles as of Friday September 29th.”
A 2024 Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Honda Announces Return of Iconic On-Road Models for 2024
October 27, 2023 — ALPHARETTA, Georgia
Six models across three categories are included in the announcement
Gold Wing, Fury, Rebel 1100, Rebel 500 and Rebel 300 receive new colors
Renowned for its wide range of two-wheel offerings, American Honda today announced the return of six on-road motorcycle models, spanning the touring, cruiser and adventure categories. From beginner-friendly cruisers to advanced touring machines, the announcement showcases the depth of Honda’s lineup and its commitment to riders of all segments and experience levels.
Headlining the announcement are the category-defining Gold Wing and the flagship Rebel 1100, both of which are offered in new colors for 2024. Well-equipped for long-distance rides, the comfortable Gold Wing leads the way when it comes touring performance. The Rebel 1100 offers the freedom, enjoyment and style of a modern cruiser, along with Honda’s legendary reliability and ease of ownership. For 2024, the bagger-style Rebel 1100T is offered in a 6-speed manual transmission version, in addition to the automatic DCT version that was released last year.
Also included in the announcement are the industry’s most popular entry-level cruisers, the Rebel 300 and Rebel 500, both sporting new colors. With a signature raked-out front end, the Fury continues to deliver classic chopper styling, but with refined Honda handling and a new color for 2024. Rounding out the announcement is the remarkably versatile NC750X, boasting comfort and convenience for around-town commuting and weekend adventures.
Gold Wing
When it comes to long, multi-day rides through winding backroads and stretches of open highway, few motorcycles can measure up to the smooth, gliding ride and refined technology of Honda’s legendary Gold Wing. This touring icon continues to set the standard for the category with substantial storage capacity, a premium sound system, convenient navigation software and, most importantly, unmatched ride quality. Whether it’s covering miles on the highway or carving through a scenic mountain pass, the Gold Wing’s relaxed riding position, comfortable seat, robust wind protection and premium suspension amount to a remarkably luxurious experience for both the rider and passenger. Plus, with a famously smooth 1,833cc six-cylinder engine and available automatic DCT gearbox, hitting the open road has never felt this good.
A 2024 Honda Gold Wing DCT. Photo courtesy American Honda.
MSRP
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: $33,000
Gold Wing Tour DCT: $29,700
Gold Wing Tour: $28,700
Gold Wing DCT: $25,700
Gold Wing: $24,700
Colors
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: Pearl White
Gold Wing Tour DCT: Gray Metallic/Black; Pearl White
While many choppers compromise ride quality for styling, Honda’s Fury is the rare exception. With unmistakable chopper styling and Honda’s renowned fit, finish and functionality, the Fury offers the best of both worlds. Honda’s engineers achieved impressive handling characteristics and suspension performance while maintaining the raked-out front end and hard-tail styling that defines the chopper category. Meanwhile, the 1,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine sounds as good as it looks and has plenty of torque on tap. For 2024, The Fury’s head-turning style is amplified with a new Adventure Green color.
From long-distance highway touring to relaxed weekend rides on winding backroads and spirited canyon carving, the Rebel 1100 embodies dynamic cruiser performance. For riders that gravitate toward the traditional cruiser experience, the Rebel 1100 (manual transmission) and Rebel 1100 DCT (automatic dual clutch transmission) boast sporty handling and a clean, contemporary design. The Rebel 1100T on the other hand, touts “bagger” styling with a large handlebar fairing and hard color-matched saddlebags that offer a combined 35 liters of space, giving riders added comfort and cargo storage for longer excursions. For 2024, the Rebel 1100T is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, in addition to the automatic DCT version that was released last year.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 1100. Photo courtesy American Honda.
MSRP
Rebel 1100T DCT: $11,349
Rebel 1100T: $10,699
Rebel 1100 DCT: $10,149
Rebel 1100: $9,549
Colors
Rebel 1100T DCT: Metallic Black; Matte Armored Green Metallic
Rebel 1100T: Metallic Black; Matte Armored Green Metallic
A modern cruiser through and through, the Rebel 500 is all about maximizing the freedom and exhilaration that can only be found on a motorcycle. Starting with its timeless yet aggressive styling, this hugely popular cruiser turns heads wherever it goes, with an iconic peanut fuel tank, blacked-out components and wide tires. The 471cc parallel-twin engine matches strong bottom-end torque with smooth delivery for a user-friendly powerband that makes the Rebel fun to ride, both in the canyons and around town. With relaxed ergonomics and well-balanced handling, the chassis and suspension prioritize rider comfort and control. The Rebel 500 is available in standard and ABS versions, as well as a limited-edition ABS SE trim level that comes with some of Honda’s most popular accessories installed from the factory.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 500. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Approachable, stylish and fun are all adjectives that describe Honda’s Rebel 300. Between the low seat height, comfortable ergonomics, balanced handling and linear power delivery, this model offers a sense of confidence that allows new riders to build their skills as they progress on their motorcycling journey. The reliable 286cc engine provides plenty of power for getting around town or cruising on the highway. Of course, the Rebel looks the part as well, with timeless cruiser styling that’s amplified by the recognizable peanut fuel tank, blacked-out engine components and LED lighting. Available in standard and ABS versions, the Rebel 300 offers user-friendly performance that’s particularly appreciated by new riders.
A 2024 Honda Rebel 300. Photo courtesy American Honda.
As the jack-of-all-trades in Honda’s on-road two-wheel lineup, the NC750X is as competent at making quick work of the daily commute as it is at getting off the grid on remote backroads. A powerful, liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin engine is paired with Honda’s high-tech automatic dual clutch transmission for efficient power delivery and ease of operation. Meanwhile, the balanced chassis and quality suspension ensure nimble handling and a comfortable ride. For both commuting and exploring, the upright riding position optimizes rider comfort, and the robust storage solutions allow space for additional gear and supplies. Plus, with Honda’s renowned reliability and an affordable MSRP, the NC750X offers a combination of adventure and utility that’s tough to beat.
A 2024 Honda NC750X. Photo courtesy American Honda.
“Never seen it so close”: Martin fastest before a crash, Aprilia on the chase
The Martinator dominates before a late tumble, Bagnaia through to Q2, Aprilia fast on a Friday of tiny margins
Friday, 27 October 2023
Day 1 of the OR Thailand Grand Prix was seriously close. Despite the tiny margins, however, Prima Pramac Racing’s Jorge Martin took to the top of the pile once more, fastest in both sessions on Friday and that despite a late tumble too. His stunning 1:28.826 is just two-tenths shy of the all-time lap record. The Aprilia Racing duo are looking very strong as well, with Maverick Viñales finishing the day just 0.098s from Martin and Aleix Espargaro only another 0.062s back. The top three were split by just 0.160s.
Maverick Vinales (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Glory to gravel
With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before engaging in full time-attack mode.
Martin got his flyer in right in the closing stages and demoted the Aprilias down a spot each. The Spaniard then went from hero to zero just after, however, after a Turn 3 mistake saw his Prima Pramac machine skating through the gravel trap.
Martin’s teammate was another who improved right at the end. Fresh from finally tasting victory in the premier class, Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) showed good promise as he finished just 0.020s shy of the top three.
Aleix Espargaro (41). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Three tenths covering the top 10
Next up was the Mooney VR46 Racing Team duo of Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi. Both still recovering from injury, both riders picked up automatic Q2 positions in 5th and 6th respectively.
Reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) looked like he could be under a little pressure, but the #1 ultimately finished the day in seventh. it’s not the top of the timesheets, but it’s the first time in three Grands Prix that the Championship leader will be going directly into Q2 as he ensures himself a sligtly less stressful Saturday morning.
The Yamahas also showed decent potential in Thailand. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) consistently kept himself within the top ten and finished the day in P8, saying a good qualifying could see him fight for the podium, ahead of Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and rookie Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3).
The Q1 battle
Q1 is set to be a tense affair as always with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) being the first rider to miss out on Q2. The number 93 also go caught out by a rogue wing from Martin’s machine.
The eight-time Champion will have to battle it out with Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), recent form Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), and Pol Espargaro (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) to decide who will take the final two Q2 spots. The whole grid is split by just 1.2 seconds!
Despite that late crash, it’s advantage Martin as they head into Saturday. Can Bagnaia do anything about the Spaniard’s pace? Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds in Thailand!
Pedro Acosta (37). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Acosta edges out Ramirez and Aldeguer on Day 1
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Pedro Acosta made his intentions known on Day 1 of the OR Thailand Grand Prix as he sets his sights on wrapping up the 2023 Moto2™ title. After topping Practice 1, the Spaniard went even quicker in Practice 2 as his 1:35.985 saw him snatch the top spot once more, but by just 0.014s. Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) was the closest to the Championship leader. The Spaniard put in an impressive Day 1 performance as he joined Acosta in the 1:35 club to finish P2 ahead of Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp).
Somkiat Chantra (35). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) is looking determined as he runs a special livery on his Triumph-powered Moto2™ machine at his home Grand Prix (see below!). The Thai rider bagged P4 on Day 1 as he sits just 0.189s away from the top spot.
Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) rounded out the top five ahead of Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) who had a positive start to his weekend in P6. Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) was 0.029s back from the Brit in P7 with Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) taking 8th. Dennis Foggia (Italtrans Racing Team) put in an impressive time to finish 3rd in Practice 1, and although the Italian failed to improve in Practice 2 his time held strong as he bagged P9 ahead of compatriot and Championship challenger Tony Arbolino (Elf MarcVDS Racing Team), who rounded out the top ten.
Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +7)!
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Moto3™: Masia reignites his charge with a clean sweep on Friday
Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) put in an impressive day’s work to open the weekend’s Moto3™ action at the OR Thailand Grand Prix. The Spaniard’s 1:42.318 saw him improve his Practice 1 time by just 0.001s, but was more than enough to secure him top honours on Day 1. David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) was also looking very strong and made a big step in Practice 2, putting himself into P2 as he got to grips with Buriram. Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), winner in Indonesia, bounced back from a tough Australian GP as he secured a top three on Day 1 in Thailand.
Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) had another strong showing as the rookie found himself just 0.073s away from the top three in P4. Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) has looked strong from the off too, and the Japanese rider rounded out the top five with Australian GP winner Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and first time podium finisher at Phillip Island, Joel Kelso (CFMOTO Racing PrüstelGP), slotting in just behind in 6th and 7th.
Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) had a solid day at the office as he took P8. The Spaniard was 0.602s slower than his title rival Masia, but does currently have 0.140s over another key rival, Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), who finished in P10 just behind Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse).
Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +7)!
Toprak Razgatlioglu was quickest in World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Jerez, in Spain. Riding his Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1, the Turkish star covered the 2.7-mile (4.4 km) track in 1:40.312 to lead the field of 24 riders.
In spite of crashing early in the session, American Garrett Gerloff was seventh overall and the fastest BMW rider with a 1:41.258 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
Most of the field sat out Free Practice One (FP1), which offered cold and wet track conditions.
Bautista poised for Championship triumph in Jerez as Razgatlioglu leads Day 1
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
In a pivotal day of WorldSBK action at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, FP2 showcased fierce competition, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) leading the way. The first session had been a quiet affair, with only four riders setting lap times on a damp track.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) had a minor setback when he crashed during FP2 but recovered to finish third, which combined with his Championship lead, puts him on the brink of a potential Championship-clinching performance from in Race 1.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) secured second place overall with teammate Dominique Aegerter finishing in fifth place, only split by Bautista’s stablemate Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) as Friday action finished.
Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) completed the top six while Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) had a challenging day finishing in 13th.
Toprak Razgatlioglu led the charge in FP2 for his last weekend with Yamaha, aiming to challenge Bautista’s dominance.
P1 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“Friday was difficult because nobody rides in FP1, because the track conditions were strange. In FP2, everybody’s riding and I’m feeling less grip. This is not just my problem; all riders are feeling the same. My bike is worse than the others because I’m feeling just spinning, no grip and no turning. We have some positives. I hope we are improving the bike tomorrow; I just need a little bit more grip for good pace. I did a good lap time, but I need good pace. Now, I’m not really strong.
Bautista is very strong and this track and I just tried to follow him to understand which areas his bike is very strong. The exit of Turn 5, he’s unbelievably fast. And the last corner exit, there’s a big gap. I’m just trying to find which corner I can catch him. I see this and I understand. I just need a good setup because I feel a lot of spinning. I’m still fighting for the win. I hope tomorrow I have much better feel with the bike and first I need a good Superpole, then a good race. I hope I’m fighting like at Portimao; then I’m feeling the bike better and starting to enjoy. I’m focused and hungry to win.”
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista, although third in FP2, is in an advantageous position, with the Championship within his grasp in Race 1, a testament to his season-long efforts.
P3 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“Every day that I enjoy the bike is a great day and today I enjoyed it! Tomorrow, the approach is to keep this feeling and to work well; I hope the track is in better condition. The track is so nice when the conditions are good. There is nothing that will change for tomorrow. Firstly, I try to be away from everyone saying, “You’ll win tomorrow! You’ll win tomorrow.” I’m the first person that knows I have the match point tomorrow.”
Nicolo Bulega. Photo courtesy Aruba.it Racing Ducati.
Newly crowned World Champion Nicolo Bulega did the best lap time in World Supersport Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday at Jerez, in Spain. After sitting out the cold and wet Free Practice One, Bulega used his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2 to do a 1:43.171 around the 2.7-mile (4.4 km) circuit and lead the field of 31 competitors.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport front-runner Valentin Debise was fifth in FP2 with a 1:44.123 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R6.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 6, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
