World Superbike: Bimota KB998 Goes On Sale April 9

Michael Gougis

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March 28, 2025

World Superbike: Bimota KB998 Goes On Sale April 9

Unveiled to the public and media for the first time at the 2024 EICMA motorcycle show – and forming the base model for the BbKRT WorldSBK race machines of Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani – the sales start for KB998 Rimini customer machines at European and Asian bimota dealers has been announced as April 9 by the iconic Rimini-based company.

Featuring the formidable Ninja ZX-10R engine at its core, enveloped in a bimota designed and manufactured chassis featuring premium quality suspension and braking components, the first batch of KB998 Rimini machines for Europe are currently being shipped to a central European warehouse ready to be despatched to the growing bimota dealer network poised for eager customers to collect their pre-ordered machines.

According to Chief Operating Officer of bimota, Pierluigi Marconi, the official sales start on April 9 will soon see the first machines appearing in showrooms*.

“We concentrated on producing KB998 Rimini customer machines following the creation of the race versions for BbKRT to campaign in WorldSBK. The same people who crafted the race bikes are also responsible for the manufacture of customer machines. Each example of the KB998 available at a bimota dealership has been hand made in our Rimini workshop and each is the product of just one technician from the start to the end of the build process. We remain true to the bimota philosophy of innovation and hand-crafted quality which our customers expect from such exquisite machines and look forward to the reactions of the initial clients in April.”

With a production plan focussed on creating units to satisfy customer demand, and in order to participate in WorldSBK, activity in Rimini has been exceptional as explained by bimota’s Marketing Manager, Gianluca Galasso.

“Interest was already intense after EICMA but the WorldSBK activities of BbKRT have taken global awareness to another level. With the help of our partner, Kawasaki, we have developed robust back-office systems offering the best level of support and information to our growing dealer family. The demand for wholesale units is a welcome challenge and we are packing machines in readiness for imminent despatch. We relish this new era for the revered Italian motorcycle brand that we are the custodians of”.

Alpinestars Releases Francesco Bagnaia Limited Edition Supertech R Boots

Michael Gougis

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March 28, 2025

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Alpinestars Releases Francesco Bagnaia Limited Edition Supertech R Boots

Introducing the Limited Edition #GoFree Supertech R Vented Boots—a bold tribute to Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia’s winning spirit and passionate pursuit of greatness and MotoGP™ glory.

Engineered for elite-level performance, these boots fuse race-proven protection with Italian precision, embodying the mindset of the three-time World Champion.

Pecco’s journey to the top is a masterclass in speed, skill, and determination. From his first MotoGP™ victory in 2021, to back-to-back world titles in 2022 and 2023, Bagnaia has shown what it means to ride on the edge with style.

Designed in the unmistakable Ducati red, black, and white, the #GoFree Supertech R Boots are more than just gear—they’re a symbol of freedom, focus, and passion for the sport. Inspired by a pivotal moment early in Pecco’s career, #GoFree is his personal mantra: live for the ride, chase the impossible, and stay true to your passion.

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity to share with you all the Supertech R boots with my MotoGP™ design. I think it’s a great chance for my fans and Alpinestars fans to own a piece of my gear, so I’m excited about it. Thanks to Alpinestars for making this possible.”

-FRANCESCO BAGNAIA

EUR 649.95 / USD 649.95

Step into the thrill of MotoGP™ with the Limited Edition Bagnaia #GoFree Supertech R Boots, launching March 28, 2025, at 6 PM CET / 9 AM PST exclusively at Alpinestars.com and select Alpinestars dealers.

Crafted with advanced race-grade technology, these vented boots deliver maximum airflow, unmatched comfort, and world-class protection—built for riders who dare to go faster, ride harder, and chase greatness like Pecco.

Supertech R Vented Boots: MotoGP™-Grade Performance for Track and Road
The Supertech R Vented Boots set the benchmark for high-performance protective footwear, born from Alpinestars’ comprehensive research and real-world testing with MotoGP™ and World Superbike champions. The inner bootie offers enhanced impact protection, while the compound rubber sole provides superior grip on the pegs, making these boots the definitive choice for riders seeking peak performance and comfort both on and off the track.

Key features include extensive perforations for optimal ventilation, a flex area and rear bellow for enhanced flexibility, a TPU shifter for superior medial protection, and an ergonomically profiled shin plate for optimal impact absorption.

MotoGP : Morbidelli Heads Opening Practice At COTA

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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MotoGP : Morbidelli Heads Opening Practice At COTA

Franco Morbidelli topped MotoGP World Championship practice Friday morning at rainy Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas. Riding his Michelin-shod Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team desmosedici GP24, the Italian turned a lap of 2:12.531 around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Surprisingly, Jack Miller was second-best with a 2:12.614 on his Prima Pramac Yamaha M1.

Marc Marquez was third with a lap of 2:12.780 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP25.

Classification motogp fp1

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Stars fall in Texas: Morbidelli P1, Marc Marquez highsides in wet FP1. In far from ideal conditions, it was a far from ideal foray onto the 5.5km COTA track for the Championship leader and he wasn’t alone.

The rain poured down in Austin, Texas as the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas’ first day of track action got underway. The Circuit of the Americas usually has blissful sunshine but a wet Friday caught out Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team), who suffered his first crash of the season. At the head of the field, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) continued his Argentina podium form to lead the opening session at COTA.

Conditions improved towards the end of the 45-minute session but it was the really wet conditions that caught Marquez out at Turn 2 after just six laps of the weekend. Managing to get up and return the bike to the pits – via the use of a flatbed truck. He got back out with 15 minutes to go before taking P4. Strong right the way through the session, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) was on top ahead of fellow Independent rider Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP). Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) was strong again in P4 ahead of last year’s COTA revelation Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing).

Sporadically topping the timesheets through the session, double MotoGP Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was sixth ahead of Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). In one of his best sessions in orange, 2024’s COTA master Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) was ninth ahead of super-sub Augusto Fernandez (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP), deputising for the injured Miguel Oliveira.

In what was a session to forget, Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) suffered numerous technical gremlins throughout the session with both bikes. Three technical issues and a crash across both bikes, when it rains, it pours – no weather pun intended – and the discontent was clear for everyone in the Aprilia box; at the flag, ‘Bez’ was 20th. The problems didn’t stop there, with a nightmare Practice Start session ending a tricky session. The best Aprilia was Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) for the team’s home GP in 17^th; teammate Ai Ogura struggled in his first wet session in the class in P22.

FP1 results bagged, it’s now time to look ahead to the afternoon: live coverage resumes from 13:10 Local Time (UTC – 6).

WorldSBK : Razgatlioglu Heads Friday Practice At Portimao

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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WorldSBK : Razgatlioglu Heads Friday Practice At Portimao

Toprak Razgatlioglu led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR on spec Pirelli tires, the 2024 WorldSuperbike Champion covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track in 1:39.995 to lead the field of 23 riders.

Rookie, Nicolo Bulega was second-best with a 1:40.294 on his Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R.

Razgatlioglu’s teammate, Michael Van Der Mark was third with a 1:40.506.

Danilo Petrucci was 6th on his Barni Spark Racing Ducati Ducati Panigale V4R with a lap time of 1:40.757.

American Garrett Gerloff was 19th with a time of 1:42.009 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

WSBK FP2 Results

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Razgatlioglu misses FP1, tops FP2 as WorldSBK hits Portimao on Friday, Bulega and van der Mark complete top three. The reigning Champion missed all of Free Practice 1, but it didn’t impact him in FP2 as he topped the times by three tenths ahead of Bulega.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) is the rider to beat after Friday’s MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship action after he set a 1’39.995s to claim P1 ahead of rival Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). The Turkish superstar set no times in FP1 due to a technical issue but responded in style in FP2 for the Pirelli Portuguese Round with the only 1’39s lap of the day, with Bulega trailing the #1 by three tenths at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

RAZGATLIOGLU BOUNCES BACK: No FP1, no problem for the #1…

The day got off to a terrible start for Razgatlioglu, with just one out lap completed in FP1 thanks to a technical issue. However, in FP2, the #1 was back out on track – and one of the first riders to hit the track – and it didn’t take him long to be towards the top of the timesheets. He moved into P2 with his first flying lap with a 1’40.735s as he embarked on the first of two 10-lap stints as he traded times with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). He later improved to a 1’40.637s on that first run before his times dropped off as the stint progressed. With 12 minutes remaining, ‘El Turco’ set a 1’40.089s to move into a provisional P1 before improving to a 1’39.995s for the first lap in the 1’39s bracket this weekend. Teammate Michael van der Mark put in a late lap of a 1’40.506s to ensure both BMWs were in the top three, lapping more than half a second slower than Razgatlioglu.

BULEGA AS CONSISTENT AS EVER: can he take the fight to ‘El Turco’?

Bulega’s pace and consistency were remarkable during FP2 as he set laps in the 1’46.6s before dropping into the 1’46.7s towards the end of his first run, with his best time in that stint a 1’40.620s to beat ‘El Turco’ in the first half of the session by just 0.017s. in his second run, the #11 found even more time, improving to a 1’40.483s before setting a 1’40.294s for his fastest time of the day. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata GoEleven) was the second fastest Ducati with a 1’40.595s although he crashed at Turn 5 towards the end of FP2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was fifth, just a tenth behind Iannone in fourth, while Barni Spark Racing Team duo Danilo Petrucci and Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) were sixth and seventh respectively; Bautista, Petrucci and Montella were separated by less than a tenth. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) moved into ninth with a late lap in FP2 after his team worked quickly to fix an electrical issue that developed with around 15 minutes to go. Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) finished in 17^th place in the combined classification; he crashed at Turn 13 in FP1.

BIMOTA IN THE MIX? Close to the Independent Ducatis ahead…

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the lead Bimota rider on Friday as he finished in tenth place with a 1’40.872s, 0.877s down on Razgatlioglu, although the #22 had been running in the top three in the early stages of FP2. Across the box, Axel Bassani had used a fresh tyre at the end of FP1 to claim P3 in that session, but he was the only rider not to improve his time in FP2. Bassani’s fastest time was a 1’41.046s, while he was two tenths slower in the second session.

SUPERCONCECCSIONS FOR YAMAHA: the development continues, Locatelli leads their way

Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the lead Yamaha rider across Friday’s action as he finished in 11^th place with a 1’41.035s, 1.040s down on Bulega’s time, while Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was just six hundredths away from ‘Loka’ in 13^th place. Dominique Aegerter was two places down on teammate Remy Gardner while Tito Rabat (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) and teammate Bahattin Sofuoglu were 20^th and 21^st respectively; Rabat had an FP1 crash at Turn 8. Jason O’Halloran, standing in for the still-recovering Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha), was 22^nd as he got his hands on the Yamaha R1 in WorldSBK spec for the first time; he improved his time by almost two seconds between FP1 and FP2. Yamaha have new superconcession parts for this weekend on the chassis, using them for the first time at Portimao.

VIERGE AHEAD OF LECUONA: not much between the pair

Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC) led Honda’s charge as he took 14^th place with a 1’41.143s, while teammate Iker Lecuona (Honda HRC) was 16^th and six tenths down on the #97. Lecuona is making his return from injury this weekend as he looks to help Honda’s continued development on the CBR1000RR-R. It’s the same for Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda) as he finished in 18^th place with a 1’41.904s, while his teammate, Zaqhwan Zaidi, was 23^rd.

GERLOFF IN 19^TH: technical issues in FP1 for the American

Kawasaki’s sole rider in 2025, Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team), was 19^th with a 1’42.009s, although he did have issues in FP1. He lost time in the morning session with a technical issue which cost him valuable running time, but FP2 was trouble-free as he worked on the ZX-10RR.

The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:

1. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 1’39.995s

2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.299s

3. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.511s

4. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata Go Eleven) +0.600s

5. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.711s

6. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.762s

Don’t miss any of Saturday’s action, including FP3, Tissot Superpole and Race 1, from 09:00 Local Time (UTC+0) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Italian CIV: American Jayden Fernandez Testing With Team MMR

Trudy Ulrich

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March 28, 2025

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Italian CIV: American Jayden Fernandez Testing With Team MMR

JAYDEN FERNANDEZ READY FOR HIS FIRST TEST WITH TEAM MMR AND THE NEW APRILIA RS660 TROFEO

On Sunday, March 30, at the Cremona Circuit, young American talent Jayden Fernandez will officially kick off his first racing season in Europe. This marks a major step for Jayden, who comes from the MotoAmerica Junior Cup, where he finished the 2024 season in sixth place overall. Like several other young American riders, he has decided to continue his career in Europe, where the championships are more competitive and serve as a crucial pathway for a rider’s development.

In 2025, Jayden will compete in the Italian CIV Championship – Aprilia RS660 Trofeo with Team MMR, led by Massimiliano Morlacchi and directly supported by Aprilia Racing. The season will begin with an official test at the Cremona Circuit, organized by the team, where Jayden will have the opportunity to ride the new Aprilia RS660 Trofeo for the first time. This test will be essential for him to get familiar with the bike and work with the team to find a base setup that will allow him to be competitive right away.

After the test, Jayden will head straight to Misano Adriatico, where the first CIV race weekend will take place from April 4 to April 6.

Jayden Fernandez:
“I’m really happy and excited to continue my career in such a competitive championship like the Italian CIV. I’ll give my best to achieve the best possible results. I’m proud to be part of Team MMR, which is recognized as one of the top teams in the championship, and I’ll do my best to meet their expectations.”

Moto2 : Dixon Tops Opening Practice In Texas

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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Moto2 : Dixon Tops Opening Practice In Texas

Jake Dixon was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas. Riding his Pirelli-shod ELF Marc VDS Racing Team Boscoscuro on the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track, the Brit recorded a 2:19.359 to lead the field of 28 riders.

American Joe Roberts was the best of the rest with a 2:20.530 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

Turkish rider, Deniz Öncu was third-fastest with a 2:20.566 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo Kalex.

Session fp1 moto2

Moto3 : Piqueras Quickest In Opening Practice At COTA

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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Moto3 : Piqueras Quickest In Opening Practice At COTA

Angel Piqueras was quickest during Moto3 World Championship practice Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas. Riding his FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the spaniard covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2.23.298, topping the field of 26 riders.

Jose Antonio Rueda was the best of the rest with a 2.24.107 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo.

Matteo Bertelle was third with a lap time of 2.24.169 on his LEVELUP-MTA KTM.

Session fp1 moto3

WorldSSP : Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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WorldSSP : Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Can Oncu topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his BluCRU Evan Bros Yamaha YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, Oncu lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) course in 1:42.944 to top the field of 34 riders and earn pole position.

Lucas Mahias was the best of the rest with a 1:43.542 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF R9, and Federico Caricasulo earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:43.570 on his Motozoo ME Air Racing MV AGUSTA F3 800 RR.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 8th with a 1:43.842 on his Renzi Corse Ducati Panigale V2.

WSSP Results Superpole

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

FIRST POLE FOR ONCU: Turkish star claims maiden WorldSSP pole position with blistering performance at Portimao. The #61 was unbeatable in the 40-minute session as he claimed his first WorldSSP pole with a huge six-tenths margin to his rivals

Round 2 of the FIM Supersport World Championship season is underway at a sunny Portimao, Portugal. Can Oncu (Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Team) maintained his testing to claim his first career WorldSSP pole, with the Turkish superstar carrying a six-time margin to Lucas Mahias (GMT94-YAMAHA), who snuck into P2 minutes before the end of the session, followed by Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME Air Racing) in P3.

ONCU STAYS CONSISTENT: Oncu sits pole, followed by Mahias and Caricasulo

Oncu (kept up his strong recent form, placing P1 with his 1’42.994s lap, as the only rider to lap in the 1’42s bracket. He claimed Turkey’s first pole since Portimao 2017, when Oncu’s mentor, Kenan Sofuoglu, was P1. Mahias placed P2 with his 1’43.542s lap earning a front-row finish after a very strong showing in testing earlier in the week and a P4 finish in FP1 earlier in the day. Caricasulo built on his FP success and claimed P3 thanks to his 1’43.570s lap, his first front-row start since Jerez 2023.

ALCOBA TO LEAD ROW 2: Alcoba P4, Bendsneyder P5, Manzi P6

Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) earned his best result of the season so far with his P4 on the back of his 1’43.603s lap, only missing out on the front row by 0.033s. Bo Bendsneyder (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) finished P5 thanks to a 1’43.685s lap after he earned pole position in Australia. Stefano Manzi’s (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 1’43.720s lap snagged him a second-row finish in P6, same as his FP1 position this morning.

SCHROETTER P7: The German rider will lead P3, Debise P8, Masia P9

Marcel Schroetter (WRP Racing) will lead row three into Race 1, his 1’43.835s lap placing him P7. Valentin Debise (Renzi Corse) impressed with his 1’43.842s lap, finishing P8, narrowly missing out on P7 by a mere 0.007s. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) rounded out the first three rows in P9 through his 1’43.863s lap, hot on the heels of Debise, only 0.021s slower.

FREE PRACTICE 1 RESULTS: Oncu, Caricasulo, Bendsneyder take top three spots

Earlier in the day in World Supersport’s FP, Oncu maintained his strong form from testing here in Portimao, pipping Caricasulo by a mere 0.048s. Fellow MV Agusta F3 800 RR rider, Bo Bendsneyder (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) joined Caricasulo in the top three. Despite a late Turn 5 crash from which he quickly rejoined the track uninjured, Lucas Mahias (GMT94-YAMAHA) finished in P4.

The top six from the WorldSBK Superpole Race, full results here!

1. Can Oncu (Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Team) 1’42.944s
2. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +0.598s
3. Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) +0.626s
4. Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) +0.659s
5. Bo Bendsneyder (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +0.741s
6. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) +0.776s

Follow the rest of the weekend’s action with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSBK : Bulega Tops Opening Practice In Portugal

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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WorldSBK : Bulega Tops Opening Practice In Portugal

Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 Friday morning at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his Pirelli-shod ARUBA.IT Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:40.977 to lead the field of 23 riders.

His teammate and Spaniard Alvaro Bautista was the best of the rest with a 1:40.996.

The Italian rider Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:41.046 on his Kawasaki Racing Team Bimota KB998 Rimini.

Former MotoAmerica Superbike regular Danilo Petrucci was 8th on his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V4R with a time of 1.41.237.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session in 19th with a 1:43.414 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

2024 WorldSuperbike Champion, Toprak Razgatlioglu suffered a transponder problem during the whole session and couldn’t set a lap time.

WSBK Results FP1

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Bulega pips Bautista by 0.019s in WorldSBK FP1 at Portimao, tech issue means Razgatlioglu doesn’t set a time. It was a Ducati 1-2 in FP1 but all eyes were on the BMW box as Razgatlioglu didn’t set a lap time in the opening session of the weekend

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) led teammate Alvaro Bautista in a factory Ducati 1-2 during Free Practice 1 for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship field, with just 0.019s between the two riders. The Pirelli Portuguese Round kicked off with the 45-minute session as Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) completed the top three. Meanwhile, Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) did not set a lap time in FP1 after suffering a technical issue on his M 1000 RR machine at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

Bulega set a 1’40.977s to claim top spot ahead of Bautista with the #19 lapping 0.019s slower than the #11 at the head of the field in what was an incredibly close FP1. A late lap from Bassani moved him into P3 and just 0.069s away from top spot as he put his Bimota KB998 Rimini machine in the top three, demoting Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) into fourth as the Dutchman led BMW’s charge.

On the other side of the BMW box, Razgatlioglu didn’t set a lap time in FP1. On his first run, he ran wide at Turn 1 before returning to the box. Attempting to leave the pits for a second run, he got on and off his bike without leaving the pit lane before the bike was returned to the garage with the door shut. Speaking during FP1, Team Principal Shaun Muir said: “He’s got a small issue, we’re not sure what it is at the moment, the guys are working on it now, but Toprak felt it right away. We went from test engines back to race engines. The last time we used this engine was Race 2 at Phillip Island. We’re working on it now, we’re pretty sure he won’t be able to return for the rest of this session, We’ll take out time, work on the problem, find out what it is to get better prepared for the second session and just put it behind us.”

Rookie Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was an impressive P5 after setting a 1’41.099s to secure fifth place for the #5, also finishing as the top Independent rider. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata GoEleven) was sixth but he lost a bit of time at the start of the session due to a rear brake issue, although the lost running didn’t appear to impact him when he did get back on track as he was straight on the pace of the front runners.

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) claimed seventh place as both Bimota riders secured a spot in the top seven, with the #22 only two tenths away from Bulega’s pace setting time. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) was eighth, 0.260s down on the #11 out in front, but he had a relatively big gap to the rider behind. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) took ninth with Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC) completing the top ten.

Tito Rabat (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) had a difficult start to his weekend after he crashed at Turn 8, with the Spanish rider able to walk away from the fall at the slow-speed right-hander. It was also tricky for Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team), who had technical issues in the first 15 minutes of the session, with the American slowly making his way back to the pits. Towards the end of the session, rookie Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) crashed at Turn 13 but he was able to re-join the session.

The top six from WorldSBK FP1, full results here:

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.977s

2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.019s

3. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.069s

4. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.072s

5. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.122s

6. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata Go Eleven) +0.208s

Don’t miss WorldSBK FP2 from 15:00 Local Time (UTC+0) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSSP : Oncu Quickest In Opening Practice At Portimao

Mathilde Gasnier

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March 28, 2025

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WorldSSP : Oncu Quickest In Opening Practice At Portimao

Can Oncu was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship practice Friday morning at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his BluCRU Evan Bros Yamaha YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish rider covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) road course in 1:43.741, topping the field of 34 riders.

The Italian rider, Federico Caricasulo was the best of the rest with a 1.43.789 on his Motozoo ME air Racing MV Agusta F3 800 RR.

Dutchman Bo Bendsneyder was third with a lap time of 1.43.955 on his MV Agusta Reparto Corse F3 800-RR.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 16th with a 1:45.192 on his Renzi Corse Ducati Panigale V2.

WSSP Results FP

World Superbike: Bimota KB998 Goes On Sale April 9

March 28, 2025

Unveiled to the public and media for the first time at the 2024 EICMA motorcycle show – and forming the base model for the BbKRT WorldSBK race machines of Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani – the sales start for KB998 Rimini customer machines at European and Asian bimota dealers has been announced as April 9 by the iconic Rimini-based company.

Featuring the formidable Ninja ZX-10R engine at its core, enveloped in a bimota designed and manufactured chassis featuring premium quality suspension and braking components, the first batch of KB998 Rimini machines for Europe are currently being shipped to a central European warehouse ready to be despatched to the growing bimota dealer network poised for eager customers to collect their pre-ordered machines.

According to Chief Operating Officer of bimota, Pierluigi Marconi, the official sales start on April 9 will soon see the first machines appearing in showrooms*.

“We concentrated on producing KB998 Rimini customer machines following the creation of the race versions for BbKRT to campaign in WorldSBK. The same people who crafted the race bikes are also responsible for the manufacture of customer machines. Each example of the KB998 available at a bimota dealership has been hand made in our Rimini workshop and each is the product of just one technician from the start to the end of the build process. We remain true to the bimota philosophy of innovation and hand-crafted quality which our customers expect from such exquisite machines and look forward to the reactions of the initial clients in April.”

With a production plan focussed on creating units to satisfy customer demand, and in order to participate in WorldSBK, activity in Rimini has been exceptional as explained by bimota’s Marketing Manager, Gianluca Galasso.

“Interest was already intense after EICMA but the WorldSBK activities of BbKRT have taken global awareness to another level. With the help of our partner, Kawasaki, we have developed robust back-office systems offering the best level of support and information to our growing dealer family. The demand for wholesale units is a welcome challenge and we are packing machines in readiness for imminent despatch. We relish this new era for the revered Italian motorcycle brand that we are the custodians of”.

Alpinestars Releases Francesco Bagnaia Limited Edition Supertech R Boots

March 28, 2025

Bagnaia boots IMG_1033 — The new limited edition Francesco Bagnaia Alpinestars Supertech R racing boots, in front of the 2006 Team Roberts 990cc KR211V on display at the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Introducing the Limited Edition #GoFree Supertech R Vented Boots—a bold tribute to Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia’s winning spirit and passionate pursuit of greatness and MotoGP™ glory.

Engineered for elite-level performance, these boots fuse race-proven protection with Italian precision, embodying the mindset of the three-time World Champion.

Pecco’s journey to the top is a masterclass in speed, skill, and determination. From his first MotoGP™ victory in 2021, to back-to-back world titles in 2022 and 2023, Bagnaia has shown what it means to ride on the edge with style.

Designed in the unmistakable Ducati red, black, and white, the #GoFree Supertech R Boots are more than just gear—they’re a symbol of freedom, focus, and passion for the sport. Inspired by a pivotal moment early in Pecco’s career, #GoFree is his personal mantra: live for the ride, chase the impossible, and stay true to your passion.

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity to share with you all the Supertech R boots with my MotoGP™ design. I think it’s a great chance for my fans and Alpinestars fans to own a piece of my gear, so I’m excited about it. Thanks to Alpinestars for making this possible.”

-FRANCESCO BAGNAIA

EUR 649.95 / USD 649.95

Step into the thrill of MotoGP™ with the Limited Edition Bagnaia #GoFree Supertech R Boots, launching March 28, 2025, at 6 PM CET / 9 AM PST exclusively at Alpinestars.com and select Alpinestars dealers.

Crafted with advanced race-grade technology, these vented boots deliver maximum airflow, unmatched comfort, and world-class protection—built for riders who dare to go faster, ride harder, and chase greatness like Pecco.

Supertech R Vented Boots: MotoGP™-Grade Performance for Track and Road
The Supertech R Vented Boots set the benchmark for high-performance protective footwear, born from Alpinestars’ comprehensive research and real-world testing with MotoGP™ and World Superbike champions. The inner bootie offers enhanced impact protection, while the compound rubber sole provides superior grip on the pegs, making these boots the definitive choice for riders seeking peak performance and comfort both on and off the track.

Key features include extensive perforations for optimal ventilation, a flex area and rear bellow for enhanced flexibility, a TPU shifter for superior medial protection, and an ergonomically profiled shin plate for optimal impact absorption.

MotoGP : Morbidelli Heads Opening Practice At COTA

March 28, 2025

morbidelli DSC_0916 — Franco Morbidelli (21). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Franco Morbidelli topped MotoGP World Championship practice Friday morning at rainy Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas. Riding his Michelin-shod Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team desmosedici GP24, the Italian turned a lap of 2:12.531 around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Surprisingly, Jack Miller was second-best with a 2:12.614 on his Prima Pramac Yamaha M1.

Marc Marquez was third with a lap of 2:12.780 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP25.

Classification motogp fp1

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Stars fall in Texas: Morbidelli P1, Marc Marquez highsides in wet FP1. In far from ideal conditions, it was a far from ideal foray onto the 5.5km COTA track for the Championship leader and he wasn’t alone.

The rain poured down in Austin, Texas as the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas’ first day of track action got underway. The Circuit of the Americas usually has blissful sunshine but a wet Friday caught out Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team), who suffered his first crash of the season. At the head of the field, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) continued his Argentina podium form to lead the opening session at COTA.

Conditions improved towards the end of the 45-minute session but it was the really wet conditions that caught Marquez out at Turn 2 after just six laps of the weekend. Managing to get up and return the bike to the pits – via the use of a flatbed truck. He got back out with 15 minutes to go before taking P4. Strong right the way through the session, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) was on top ahead of fellow Independent rider Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP). Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) was strong again in P4 ahead of last year’s COTA revelation Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing).

Sporadically topping the timesheets through the session, double MotoGP Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was sixth ahead of Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). In one of his best sessions in orange, 2024’s COTA master Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) was ninth ahead of super-sub Augusto Fernandez (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP), deputising for the injured Miguel Oliveira.

In what was a session to forget, Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) suffered numerous technical gremlins throughout the session with both bikes. Three technical issues and a crash across both bikes, when it rains, it pours – no weather pun intended – and the discontent was clear for everyone in the Aprilia box; at the flag, ‘Bez’ was 20th. The problems didn’t stop there, with a nightmare Practice Start session ending a tricky session. The best Aprilia was Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) for the team’s home GP in 17^th; teammate Ai Ogura struggled in his first wet session in the class in P22.

FP1 results bagged, it’s now time to look ahead to the afternoon: live coverage resumes from 13:10 Local Time (UTC – 6).

WorldSBK : Razgatlioglu Heads Friday Practice At Portimao

March 28, 2025

Toprak Razgatlioglu fastest in FP2 at Portimao. Photo courtesy ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.