World Endurance: BMW Motorrad Team Claims Pole For Bol d’Or 24-Hour

David Swarts

-

September 15, 2023

0

World Endurance: BMW Motorrad Team Claims Pole For Bol d’Or 24-Hour

bol-dor-overall-combined-qualifying-ranking

More, from a press release issued by FIM EWC:

History repeated as BMW claims second EWC Bol d’Or pole in a row with lap record run

*German star Reiterberger is BMW team’s rapid rider at Circuit Paul Ricard

*Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France second and third quickest

*Championship title chase remains wide open ahead of season decider

*Six bike manufacturers in top seven underlines highly competitive nature of EWC

*Frenchmen Foray and Arbel help Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team to Superstock pole

BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team is set to start the deciding round of the 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship on pole position for the second season running, as Markus Reiterberger smashed his team-mate Illya Mykhalchyk’s Bol d’Or qualifying lap record from last season.

German Reiterberger rode his Dunlop-equipped BMW M 1000 RR to top spot at Circuit Paul Ricard in a time of 1m51.596s, which eclipsed the previous benchmark of 1m52.267s recorded by Ukrainian Mykhalchyk during his charge to pole 12 months ago.

With the starting order for EWC races decided by the average time of a team’s fastest two riders from First Qualifying, which took place on Thursday afternoon, and Second Qualifying, which ran this morning, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team came out on top of the overall order ahead of Yoshimura SERT Motul and F.C.C. TSR Honda France.

The five points Werner Daemen’s outfit scored for claiming pole puts it on 105 in the provisional standings, 36 behind leader and defending champion F.C.C. TSR Honda France. Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team remains in second but is now 14 points down on F.C.C. TSR Honda France after it could only manage fourth place in the combined classification.

“It’s nice to be here at this beautiful track,” said Reiterberger, who is also partnered by French rider Jérémy Guarnoni. “Yesterday we started on the soft race tyre and my lap time was already very good, I could do this lap time alone. Today I tried to find the slipstream and this helped me to gain another few tenths. I want to say thank you to the team because our bike is incredibly fast. Our plan was to catch the pole position and win the race, this is what we have to do to have a chance for the title. We are ready for the race.”

In the Dunlop Superstock Trophy, which counts for the FIM Endurance World Cup, there was more BMW success with Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team coming out on top ahead of championship stalwart National Motos Honda and Wójcik Racing Team after the times of Loïc Arbel and Kenny Foray were taken into account to determine the category polesitter.

“We need to win the take the title,” said Frenchman Foray. “It’s a 24-hour race and it’s really long but the objective is to win the race.”

With Jan Bühn ruled out of the Bol d’Or after injuring a hand and foot in Tuesday testing, Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team has yet to finalise its rider line-up for the 24-hour race, a task complicated when reserve rider Nelson Major crashed and badly damaged the #9 BMW during Second Qualifying.

In the FIM Endurance World Cup title battle, National Motos Honda moves into second place, four points behind Chromeburner-RAC41-Honda, which finished outside the top-five scoring positions. Honda No Limits, which was fifth quickest, slips to third, five points off the lead.

Meanwhile, the highly competitive nature of the EWC was underlined with six different manufacturers represented in the combined qualifying order as ERC Endurance Ducati took fifth and Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar seventh behind Yamaha-powered KM99. The top three in the Dunlop Superstock Trophy featured three different makes as National Motos Honda and Yamaha-equipped Wójcik Racing Team completed the provisional podium behind Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team.

Elsewhere, Honda Viltaïs Racing – the 2022 Bol d’Or winner – was eighth fastest overall followed by TATI Team Beringer Racing and Team Moto-Ain.

How Second Qualifying unfolded

As he had done on Thursday, Markus Reiterberger once again was unbeatable in the Blue Rider group, the German recording a 1m51.596s best for BWM Motorrad World Endurance Team. Gregg Black was second fastest for Yoshimura SERT Motul on a 1m51.636s with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team’s Niccolo Canepà posting the third quickest time, 0.616s down on Reiterberger’s fastest effort. Lucas Mahias was fourth for KM99 followed by Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar’s Randy de Puniet and TATI Team Beringer Racing rider Randy Krummenacher, who is making his Bol d’Or debut this weekend. Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team’s Kenny Foray was quickest among the Dunlop Superstock Trophy contenders followed by Kamil Krezemień (Wójcik Racing Team) and Enzo de la Vega (Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore).

The Yellow Rider session had been running for less than four minutes when it was red-flagged following a crash for Axel Maurin at Turn 4. The Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore racer was uninjured but the session was delayed to enable FIM officials to check the track surface for oil. Once action resumed, Illya Mykhalchyk continued BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team’s strong form by topping the order in a time of 1m51.721s. Mike Di Meglio was second quickest, 0.300s behind Mykhalchyk, but fell on his final lap in his efforts to improve his time for F.C.C. TSR Honda France, albeit without injury. Sylvain Guintoli, who was the fastest Yellow Rider in First Qualifying, was third quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul with Marvin Fritz (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team) fourth. Xavi Forés was fifth for ERC Endurance Ducati followed by top independent runner Marcel Brenner, who took sixth for Team Bolliger Switzerland. Loïc Arbel was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider for Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team. Loris Cresson was second in the FIM Endurance World Cup-counting category for BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers followed by Maxim Pellizotti (Pitlane Endurance – JP3).

Karel Haneka was the pacesetting Red Rider for Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team in a time of 1m51.882s. Étienne Masson (Yoshimura SERT Motul) was 0.259s adrift in second with Jérémy Guarnoni third quickest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. Steven Odendall clocked the fourth fastest time for the 2022 Bol d’Or winning Honda Viltaïs Racing team with Baptiste Guittet fifth for TATI Team Beringer Racing as Wójcik Racing Team’s Isaac Viñales rounded out the top six. Alessandro Delbianco, OG Motorsport World Endurance Team’s new recruit, was the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider, one place ahead of Wójcik Racing Team’s Kevin Manfredi. National Motos Honda rider Guillaume Raymond rounded out the Superstock top three. A crash involving Bastien Mackels (KM99) and Pedro Nuno Romero Barbosa (Team Bolliger Switzerland) caused the session to be halted after 10 minutes. Although neither rider was injured, repairs to the trackside protection resulted in a lengthy delay.

Cocoro Atusmi was quickest for Yoshimura SERT Motul in the Green Rider group in a time of 1m53.675s, 0.464s faster than Robin Mulhauser (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team). French World Superbike star Loris Baz was third fastest for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team with Pepijn Bijssterbosch next up for Team LRP Poland. Teenager Jurand Kuśmierczyk was fifth for Wójcik Racing Team and the quickest Dunlop Superstock Trophy contender.

BEST LAPS

First Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.890s

First Qualifying Yellow Rider: Sylvain Guintoli, 1m51.695s

First Qualifying Red Rider: Alan Techer, 1m51.707s

First Qualifying Green Rider: Loris Baz, 1m52.705s

Second Qualifying Blue Rider: Markus Reiterberger, 1m51.596s

Second Qualifying Yellow Rider: Illya Mykhalchyk, 1m51.721s

Second Qualifying Red Rider: Karel Hanika, 1m51.882s

Second Qualifying Green Rider: Cocoro Atsumi, 1m53.675s

WHAT’S NEXT? The 86th Bol d’Or 24-hour race is scheduled to begin at 15h00 CET tomorrow (Saturday 16 September).

Former Racer Shawn McDonald, R.I.P.

David Swarts

-

September 15, 2023

0

Shawn McDonald passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023. After two weeks in ICU fighting a kidney infection, he improved and was transferred to a recovery care facility in Snohomish, WA. However, Shawn had always been adamant that he would not languish in a “nursing home,” and true to his stubborn Irish blood, he died the next day.

Shawn was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. During the 1970’s he raced motocross, and rode trails, locally in the Pacific Northwest. In the ’80s he changed to road racing with the Washington Motorcycle Roadracing Association (“WMRRA”) at what was then called Seattle International Raceway (now Pacific Raceway). He also served on the Executive Board of WMRRA, released the race reports for several years, and continued to ride single-track trails.

That all changed at a race in New Zealand.

Shawn became a high-functioning quadriplegic after a road-racing crash on the South Island of New Zealand, while participating in the International Series as part of “Team America” in January of 1991.

Upon his return to the USA Shawn adapted to life in a wheelchair – but on his own terms. He continued to race, competing on a modified Honda Odyssey and later a SuperKart. He next founded and published a race magazine, “Bench Racer.” He wrote and distributed it for several years.

Through that experience he realized how little recognition Washington racers received.

Determined to remedy that, he took on the formation and administration of a 501c4 organization, the “Washington State Motorcycle Racing Hall of Fame” (https://wsmchof.org ). The first Award Banquet in 2010 had over 100 attendees. He continued to organize the event for several years, recognizing the best Washington motorcycle racers of the past and present, on dirt and pavement.

When he could no longer do it all himself, a new Board of Directors carried on to showcase Washington state’s talent.

Shawn lived 34 years as an able-bodied racer, and 33 years as a wheelchair pilot. His 67 years are a testament to his Scotch/Irish stubbornness.

Shawn is survived by his mother, two brothers, a niece and two nephews, and good friends in both hemispheres.

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023 Inducted

David Swarts

-

September 15, 2023

0

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023 Inducted

2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Honors Five Inductees

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inducted its 2023 Class on Thursday, honoring five new members during the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 includes Rita Coombs, Ryan Dungey, Barry Hawk, Grant Langston and Travis Pastrana, all of whom received their Hall of Fame Rings and gold jackets during the ceremony.

“We’re truly delighted to gather here in Pickerington, Ohio, home of both the AMA headquarters and the esteemed AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, to celebrate this historic occasion,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said when addressing the crowd. “Unlike some previous years, this year’s inductees have the privilege of personally experiencing the hallowed grounds where they will be forever immortalized and celebrated as honored members of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

“But this event is far more than a banquet and ceremony designed to honor the remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our beloved sport,” Dingman continued. “It also serves as a unique opportunity for us to unite in our shared mission of safeguarding motorcycle history for generations yet to come.”

Leading this year’s ceremony were emcees Perry King, a well-known actor and director, and motocross rider, sidecar enthusiast and sideline reporter Laurette Nicoll, who guided the audience through the life and accomplishments of the Hall of Fame inductees.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame also recognized the memories of Hall of Famers who passed away during the last year: Earl Bowlby, Fred Fox, Ronnie Rall and Peter Starr.

Supporters and partners for the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony included IronLilly.com, National Powersports Dealer Association, Dealernews, MX Sports, Feld Entertainment, Bromley Powersports, KTM, Yamaha and Broc Glover.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2022

Each member of the Class of 2023 was officially inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Thursday, and after receiving their rings and jackets, the inductees addressed the audience through a speech and Q&A session with the emcees.

Rita Coombs

Born in 1941, Rita Coombs had no idea she would one day be a leading voice in motorcycle racing. Although her initial career path was to become a teacher, Coombs — along with her husband Dave — found her calling in the world of motorcycles after seeing On Any Sunday in 1972.

On Any Sunday had a profound impact on the Coombs, who soon-after began their pursuits in the world of motorcycle race promoting. In 1973, the Coombs began promoting their own AMA amateur events and opened their own track, Appalachia Lake MX in Bruceton Mills, W.V.

The Coombs created the AMA Grand National Cross Country series, which is the largest and most prestigious off-road series in the world, and the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Since its inaugural running in 1982, the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship has grown into the premier amateur event in the sport.

After her husband’s passing in 1998, Coombs continued to run the family business at a high level alongside her children, Carrie Jo, Tim and Davey. “I am forever grateful,” an emotional Coombs said. “I just want to thank all the riders and our fans who come see us every weekend and who love racing as much as we do!”

Ryan Dungey

Possessing one of the most noteworthy 10-year runs in motocross/Supercross history, Ryan Dungey’s induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame comes as little surprise to motorcycle racing enthusiasts.

From 2007-’17, Dungey produced four AMA Supercross 450SX titles and trio of motocross championships in the 450 class, emerging as one of the greatest competitors the sport has ever seen. Beyond his accomplishments in the United States, Dungey also spearheaded Team USA to three straight Motocross of Nations titles from 2009-’11.

Dungey holds the AMA Supercross record for most consecutive podium finishes, landing in the top three in 31 consecutive races across the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

Now, Dungey gives back to the community through the Ryan Dungey Foundation, which aims to help children lead healthy lives and support those that are battling cancer.

“First and foremost, congratulations to Grant, Barry, Rita and Travis,” Dungey said from the Hall of Fame podium. “It’s an honor to be up here being inducted into the HOF with all of them. Just being up here is a dream come true…I’m grateful for all the people in my life who helped me get here, and this one’s for you guys. You deserve all the credit!”

Barry Hawk

Across his 20-year racing career, Barry Hawk displayed a multi-disciplined racing ability that few could emulate.

An eight-time AMA Grand National Cross Country Champion, Hawk cemented himself as one of the greatest off-road competitors the sport has ever seen, capturing seven titles aboard an ATV and an additional championship on two wheels.

Beginning his professional career in 1990, Hawk raced his way to seven-consecutive GNCC ATV championships from 1993-99 while also claiming his GNCC Bike Championship in 2003. To this day, Hawk is the only racer to win GNCC championships on an ATV and bike.

Hawk now serves as the team manager for the Coastal Gas Gas Factory Racing Team, where he has supported many racers to GNCC victories.

“Wow, just wow,” Hawk said. “I am so honored and thankful to be here. Thank you to everyone here, thank you to everyone that voted for me…and thank you to all the great people that have helped me through the years…it truly means a lot.”

Grant Langston

As the only racer to win a World MX title, an AMA MX Championship and both AMA Supercross Regional Championships in the 125/250cc divisions, Grant Langston’s impressive career led him to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

Hailing from Durban, South Africa, Langston moved to Europe when he was only 15 years old to begin his professional racing pursuits. Just two years later, Langston secured the 2000 FIM 125cc World Motocross Championship, which resulted in him receiving a deal to compete on the AMA Supercross circuit in 2001.

In 2003, Langston claimed the AMA 125 National Motocross Championship and added regional 125/250cc Supercross Championships in 2005 and 2006. One year later, Langston clinched the AMA 450cc Pro Motocross Championship, snapping Ricky Carmichael’s seven-year hold over the series.

Unfortunately, Langston’s career was cut short after a tumor was found in his eye during the 2008 season, causing Langston to experience vision problems. Since then, Langston has opened his own multi-brand motorcycle dealership and served as a race commentator.

“I’m very humbled, very thankful…I’m lost for words,” an emotional Langston said during his speech. “I’m stoked to have my name as a part of the legacy of the Hall of Fame!”

Travis Pastrana

Whether he was racing his way to victories on the motocross track or completing stupefying stunts, Travis Pastrana captivated audiences while aboard two wheels.

After starting out in motocross, Pastrana became a stunt rider and lead personality behind the Nitro Circus brand, which spans reality TV, movies and live performances. Now, Pastrana is set to become an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer.

At just 16 years old in 1999, Pastrana became the then-youngest racer to claim an AMA Pro MX title after winning the AMA 125cc National MX Championship. Pastrana added the 2001 125cc East Supercross title to his resume before setting his sights on the X Games — where he produced 17 medals, including 11 golds.

As the founder of the Nitro Circus brand, Pastrana helped grow one of the largest entertainment entities in motor sports. Sparked by his childhood hero Evel Knievel, Pastrana also followed his pursuits to become a successful stuntman.

“Racing is hard,” Pastrana said. “Racing takes a lot of people and a huge sacrifice from everybody. To get to be the best is amazing…It means so much to me that you would think to honor me here tonight, and this is something I’ll remember and appreciate for the rest of my life.” The Class of 2023 exhibit, featuring bikes and memorabilia from the 2023 Hall of Famers will be available for the public to view starting Friday, Sept. 15.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

MotoAmerica: Flat Tracker Dallas Daniels Racing In Twins Cup At NJMP

David Swarts

-

September 15, 2023

0

MotoAmerica: Flat Tracker Dallas Daniels Racing In Twins Cup At NJMP

Daniels to Race MotoAmerica Twins Cup at NJMP

Estenson Racing and Dallas Daniels will go Twins Cup racing at the MotoAmerica season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park

MARIETTA, Ga. – September 15, 2023 – Estenson Racing is excited to announce that Dallas Daniels will race the MotoAmerica Twins Cup next weekend at New Jersey Motorsports Park. After a job well done as a title contender in the premier class of American Flat Track, Daniels makes his return to road racing for the first time since 2019 and will race the Estenson Racing-prepped Giaccmoto R7 at the season finale in Millville, New Jersey.

Daniels made his debut in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup category in a wild-card appearance in 2017, and then the following year, he raced a full season. In 2019, he was a title contender in the Junior Cup and won his first MotoAmerica race at Miller Motorsports Park. After his 16th birthday that same year, he made his pro debut in the American Flat Track series with the Estenson Racing team. Putting his full focus on dirt track and the AFT Singles class, the Illinois rider scored his first AFT win that season in front of the home crowd at the Peoria TT. Daniels went on to celebrate more victories and back-to-back AFT Singles Championships in 2020 and 2021.

In addition to battling for the AFT Singles title in 2021, Daniels got some seat time aboard the MT-07, racing select rounds of the AFT Production Twins class. The Illinois rider once again found immediate success, winning his debut race at the Atlanta TT and earning three victories that season in four tries. Daniels also enjoyed a successful debut last year in the premier class with a pair of wins and finishing third in point standings. This year, he came out swinging, winning both rounds at the American Flat Track season opener on the Daytona Short Track. Daniels went on to score a total of five wins and led the SuperTwins point standings for most of the season, ultimately finishing in the runner-up spot.

Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager

“We’re excited to go Twins Cup racing with Dallas at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the MotoAmerica season finale. This was something that Dallas wanted to do, and we felt it was a nice bonus for him and our sponsors. He had a great SuperTwins season and was battling for the championship the whole way, which is very impressive for his second year in the class. There’s not a whole lot of 20-year-olds going toe-to-toe with a guy like Jared Mees. Dallas is definitely one of the top up-and-coming riders in the sport, and we’re happy to give him this opportunity to go back and do some road racing now that the AFT season is done. We’d like to thank Yamaha and Chuck Giacchetto for helping us out with a bike. We’ve heard a lot of positive things about the progression of the MotoAmerica series, and we’re looking forward to going there and participating in an event and seeing what Dallas can do.”

Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing

“I’m really excited and pumped for the opportunity to get back on a road race bike. We had an amazing year in American Flat Track and with the series ending a little bit earlier than usual, the opportunity was available to do the final round of MotoAmerica. I’ve got to give a huge thanks to Yamaha, Estenson Racing, and Chuck Giacchetto for giving me this opportunity to come back and do some road racing. The support from everyone, including MotoAmerica, has been unreal. I definitely feel welcomed back in this paddock already, and I’m super excited for the weekend.”

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

Moto-Journalist Evans Brasfield, R.I.P.

David Swarts

-

September 14, 2023

0

Evans Brasfield, the Editor-In-Chief at Motorcycle.com and a well-liked and respected member of the powersports media community, died from injuries he sustained in an accident September 13. He was 61 years old.

The news was posted today on Facebook by his wife Karin.

“Dear friends and family, we wanted to let you know that we have suffered a great loss. Evans was in an accident yesterday and did not survive. He was our rock, our beloved, worlds’ best Dad and my life partner for over 30 years. His absence leaves a gaping hole in our hearts. We are honestly not sure how we will live without him. You may have questions; unfortunately, we have no answers at this point. We would appreciate your love and prayers at this time. If you’d like to help, our friends have setup a Meal Train (see comments for the link). Details about a service will be pending.”

In addition to his wife Karin, Brasfield is survived by daughters Minna and Georgia.

We will provide more information as it becomes available.

World Endurance: Yoshimura SERT Motul Tops Q1 At Bol d’Or 24-Hour

David Swarts

-

September 14, 2023

0

World Endurance: Yoshimura SERT Motul Tops Q1 At Bol d’Or 24-Hour

Guintoli takes Yoshimura SERT Motul to the top in first Bol d’Or EWC qualifying

Sylvain Guintoli was a step above for Yoshimura SERT Motul as the Suzuki-powered rider completed the four-stage First Qualifying for the Bol d’Or – the deciding round of the 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship – in a fastest time of 1m51.695s.

Part of the 2021 Bol d’Or winning line-up, Guintoli clocked his best effort in the 20-minute Yellow Rider session on the 5.673-kilometre Circuit Paul Ricard.

He bettered Markus Reiterberger’s quickest time of 1m51.890s from the Blue Rider group for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team and Alan Techer’s Red Rider best of 1m51.707s for F.C.C. TSR Honda France.

But with qualifying results based on the average time of the fastest two riders at the completion of the final Second Qualifying session, it means the starting order for the 86th Bol d’Or won’t be known until mid-morning Friday with the action due to get under way at 09h00 CET.

How First Qualifying unfolded

Markus Reiterberger picked up where his BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team left off in Free Practice by going quickest in the Blue Rider group. The German set a best time of 1m51.890s, a mere 0.002s faster than Gregg Black managed for Yoshimura SERT Motul. Josh Hook, on his comeback from surgery following a training injury in late July, was third quickest on a 1m52.654s with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team’s Niccolo Canepà fourth ahead of Lucas Mahias (KM99) and Randy de Puniet (Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar). French Superbike championship leader Kenny Foray was quickest among the Dunlop Superstock Trophy contenders for Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team with Sébastien Suchet and Lorenzo Gabellini second and third for National Motos Honda and Honda No Limits respectively.

Sylvain Guintoli was fastest of the Yellow Rider pack with the Frenchman posting a 1m51.695s for Suzuki-powered Yoshimura SERT Motul. Mike Di Meglio (F.C.C. TSR Honda France) was second quickest with Illya Mykhalchyk (BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team) third. Marvin Fritz (Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team) was fourth with Xavi Forés fifth for ERC Endurance Ducati and Florian Marino sixth on KM99’s Yamaha. National Motos Honda rider Valentin Suchet was the pacesetting Dunlop Superstock Trophy rider followed by category rivals Loïc Arbel (Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team) and Axel Maurin (Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore). The session was halted before eventually restarting after a mechanical failure for Roberto Tamburini’s Team Moto-Ain entry left oil on sections of the start/finish straight.

2023 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Xavi Fores (12) on the ERC Endurance Ducati Panigale V4 R at the Bol d'Or 24-hour race. Photo courtesy FIM EWC. — 2023 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Xavi Fores (6) on the ERC Endurance Ducati Panigale V4 R at the Bol d’Or 24-hour race. Photo courtesy FIM EWC.

Alan Techer, who is still chasing his first Bol d’Or podium, was the racer to beat out of the Red Rider group on a 1m51.707s for F.C.C. TSR Honda France. The Frenchman was a full 1.307s quicker than Yoshimura SERT Motul’s Étienne Masson. Karel Hanika was third for Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team, one place ahead of Grégory Leblanc (Team Kawasaki Webike Trickstar). Bol d’Or rookie Leandro Mercado was set for a top-six time for Honda Viltaïs Racing, last year’s winner, but slipped to eighth in the final moments as Jérémy Guarnoni (BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team) and Bastien Mackels (KM99) took fifth and sixth places respectively. Kevin Manfredi set the Dunlop Superstock Trophy pace for Wójcik Racing Team, closely followed by Guillaume Raymond (National Motos Honda) and EWC newcomer Alessandro Delbianco (OG Motorsport World Endurance Team).

World Superbike star Loris Baz was the best-performing reserve in the Green Rider session on a 1m52.705s for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. He headed Japan’s Cocoro Atsumi, who has joined Yoshimura SERT Motul for the EWC season decider to take on a new reserve rider role having impressed for OG Motorsport World Endurance Team in the Dunlop Superstock Trophy. Robin Mulhauser was third for Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team, while EWC newcomer Nelson Major was fourth fastest and quickest Superstock rider for Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team, only to stop on track late in the session. James Westmoreland (Honda Viltaïs Racing) and Wójcik Racing Team’s teenage star Jurand Kuśmierczyk were fifth and sixth followed by F.C.C. TSR Honda France’s new Japanese recruit Hikari Okubo.

Riders will get to experience Circuit Paul Ricard under the cover of darkness when the one-hour Night Free Practice takes place from the new time of 20h30.

Blue Rider Q1
Green Rider Q1
Red Rider Q1
Yellow Rider Q1

British Superbike: “Showdown” Opens This Weekend At Oulton Park

David Swarts

-

September 14, 2023

0

British Superbike: “Showdown” Opens This Weekend At Oulton Park

Oulton Park opens the Showdown as the Bennetts BSB title fight intensifies

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship season reaches the crucial stage this weekend (September 15/16/17) as Oulton Park hosts the opening round of the Showdown, with the points value increased, the title contenders can’t afford to give an inch in Cheshire.

There are 16 riders who remain in mathematical contention ahead of the Showdown, with a maximum of 255 points available from the final three rounds. However, to be in with a shot at the title at the Brands Hatch season finale in October, riders will need to be within 105 points of the standings leader ahead of the final round as a win points’ value increases to 35 for the final three races.

The BeerMonster Ducatis lead the way at the top of the standings as they aim to maintain their advantage and continue the legacy of team owner Paul Bird, who sadly passed away earlier this month.

A double win at Cadwell Park put Glenn Irwin closer to Tommy Bridewell at the top of the standings with 14.5 points separating the pair ahead of this weekend’s three races, but Kyle Ryde has also been back in podium contention for reigning champions LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha.

Jason O’Halloran’s treble win at Thruxton fired him back into contention for McAMS Yamaha and the Australian is hoping he can repeat some of his previous winning success at the Cheshire circuit, whilst Leon Haslam holds fifth in the standings knowing he came close to victory earlier in the year.

Lee Jackson will be pushing to close down the deficit too at the circuit where he claimed his first ever Bennetts BSB race win last season for the Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki team and FHO Racing BMW Motorrad contender Josh Brookes needs a repeat of his win from earlier in the season to get his title bid back on track.

Ryan Vickers lost ground with a crash at Cadwell Park, which left him with a wrist injury so he will want to try to bounce back this weekend with Christian Iddon and Jack Kennedy completing the current top ten in the standings.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Tommy Bridewell (BeerMonster Ducati) 303
Glenn Irwin (BeerMonster Ducati) 288.5
Kyle Ryde (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) 252
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 248.5
Leon Haslam (ROKiT BMW Motorrad) 227
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki) 216.5
Josh Brookes (FHO BMW Motorrad) 202
Ryan Vickers (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) 189
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 186
Jack Kennedy (Mar-Train Racing Yamaha) 116

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Tommy Bridewell

BeerMonster Ducati

“This weekend, I go into it like any other weekend and that is to do the best job I possibly can for myself, the team and of course for Paul.

“I feel like what we’ve been doing this year has been good enough, there is a reason why we’ve managed to win seven races, and another seven podiums along the way as well.

“Cadwell Park was a tough weekend but getting the bike bang on for the last race gave me the same feeling I had when I won at Snetterton and Brands Hatch.

“All I’m focused on is winning races and if I carry on doing what I’ve done all year then the championship should take care of itself.”

Moto2: Gresini Racing Signs Arenas

David Swarts

-

September 14, 2023

0

ARENAS TO JOIN GRESINI FAMILY FROM 2024

For 2024, the team led by Luca Gresini has decided to gamble again on a Spanish rider. It will be Albert Arenas the new standard bearer in the intermediate category, with Team Moto2 QJMOTOR GRESINI RACING raising the bar to be among the protagonists from the get-go.

Albert Arenas, who was crowned Moto3 World Champion in 2020, has already shown good things in what is a challenging category – Moto2 – and the podium finish scored at Barcelona is proof of consistent growth for the #75, who will look for confirmation in what will be his fourth year in the class.

The Pirelli test at Barcelona have already shown signs of an incredible level. If a good day starts in the morning… welcome!

ALBERT ARENAS #75

“It’s an honor for me to join a squad with such history, with world championship titles and such an important MotoGP effort. There’s still half a season left and the goal is to stay focused and keep growing as a rider, in order to get to 2024 in the best possible situation. I would like to thank Nadia and the whole of Gresini Racing for this great opportunity.”

LUCA GRESINI – TEAM MANAGER QJMOTOR GRESINI MOTO2

“We wanted a top rider also in Moto2 and I think with Albert we will be a reference point also in this category. The #75 is a veteran in Moto2, one capable of winning races and titles. We want the best and why not, we can dream of a Moto2 title with him.”

Yamaha Announces All-New WR450F Enduro Bike

David Swarts

-

September 14, 2023

0

Yamaha Announces All-New WR450F

A Lighter, Slimmer, Sharper Enduro Ready to Dominate the Trail

MARIETTA, Ga. – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, is proud to introduce the all-new 2024 WR450F aimed at setting a new benchmark for open-class enduro performance. Based on recent changes made to Yamaha’s best-in-class YZ450F motocrosser, the new WR450F is now slimmer, lighter, faster and more tractable than before with longer, stronger pulling power.

But that’s not all, significant adjustments have been made to the entire machine to produce unique WRF characteristics. Yamaha engineers and testers paid special attention to tuning the bike for its intended use as a fast enduro machine, which means that while the WR450F may be based on its MX cousin, the power delivery, handling and suspension are unique to this model and developed specifically for enduro performance.

The numerous changes made to the 2024 WR450F combine to reduce weight, improve handling and increase tractability, leading to a more user-friendly machine for the fast enduro rider. The end result is an enduro weapon that’s easy to ride fast, extremely capable in technical situations and more versatile than ever.

Lighter, More Powerful Engine

The all-new engine is shared with the current YZ450F. It features larger 39mm-diameter intake valves, a new piston, conrod, revised bearings, optimized crank mass inertia and a dry sump oil tank with integrated generator cover. Many components are lighter including the piston, cylinder, crank assembly, cam chain, con rod bearings and lubrication system, which results in an engine that’s 2.4 pounds lighter. In addition, the 2024 WR450F features an ECU tuned specifically to offer tractability at low speeds and high power at medium to fast-speeds.

New Transmission

The drivetrain runs the new YZ450F lightweight disc-spring clutch which is more compact with a lighter feel and a more positive engagement point. The wide-ratio five-speed gearbox now features wider main shaft gears for reduced weight and increased strength, with ratios specifically developed for enduro racing.
Lower Center of Gravity

The advanced aluminum bilateral beam frame has a 15mm lower head pipe joint, allowing the frame rail and tension pipe to sit lower, moving the center of gravity down for enhanced handling. The chassis also has a revised rigidity balance developed specifically for the WR450F. The frame was developed with a focus on flex characteristics and the engine mounts are specially tuned for this model to allow excellent cornering, bump absorption and overall handling. A new compact fuel tank features a larger lower area and lower fuel pump location, and a shorter muffler further increases mass centralization.
Revised KYB suspension

New KYB suspension features tool-free compression damping adjustment on top of the forks. With a seat height 10mm lower than the YZ450F and with a lower center of gravity, the new WR450F runs 11.8 inches of front suspension travel and 12 inches rear suspension travel for precise control over varied terrain. This also assists in increasing grip on the front and traction at the rear for a more planted feel. These changes also increase the tight turning ability of the machine which increases confidence while riding singletrack.

The 2024 Yamaha WR450F comes with slimmer bodywork and updated ergonomics. Photo courtesy Yamaha. — The 2024 Yamaha WR450F comes with new KYB suspension. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Slimmer Bodywork with Improved Ergos

A generous flow of clean air is now fed from the rear of the bike which allows for a slimmer body. The overall shroud width has been made significantly narrower and the shape of its side surfaces are smoother. This allows riders to move their legs forward more easily, contributing to the lighter and more agile handling feel. A new seat is flatter and narrower with rounded edges, further increasing ease of movement. The riding position is also improved, with 10mm more leg room and handlebars positioned slightly closer for a more natural position.

Additional Lightweight Components

Other lightweight components include the rear wheel and rear braking system. A three spoke pattern joins the blue anodized Excel rim to a lighter hub, and a new YZ450F-spec rear brake system sheds further weight. The 2024 WR450F also has a lightweight lithium-ion battery, lighter footpeg bracket and even lighter throttle cables for an overall weight savings of more than 4 pounds.

Additional New Features

A new skid plate is fitted that enhances the protection of the lower frame, engine covers and coolant hoses. There’s also new multifunction switchgear on the left-hand side of the handlebars, new multifunction meter display showing speed, trip distance, low fuel and engine warning lights, new water-resistant PVC handlebar pad, new rear fender with a grab area, and redesigned fork seals for improved life.

A 2024 Yamaha WR450F at speed. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

2024 WR450F Features & Benefits

New fuel-injected 450cc engine is lighter, more compact and more powerful
Model-specific ECU produces tractability at low speeds and full power at medium to high speeds
Model-specific suspension settings tuned for enduro performance
New toolless front fork compression damping adjusters
Redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame sits lower with WR450F-specific engine mounts
Flatter seat with more rounded edges makes it easy to move about while riding
New air flow management system allows a more compact body including 50mm narrower shrouds
Lower center of gravity assists in negotiating tight corners
Mass centralized fuel tank and muffler
New lighter clutch and revised wide-ratio gearbox
Lighter rear wheel, hub and brake assembly
New multi-function switchgear
New full protection skid plate
New rear fender with handy grab area
New water-resistant bar pad
Lighter lithium-ion battery, footpeg bracket, throttle cables and more

The new 2024 WR450F will be offered in Team Yamaha Blue and will be available from dealers in November for $10,199 MSRP. Additionally, the WR250F returns unchanged for 2024, offered in Team Yamaha Blue and available from dealers this in November for $8,999 MSRP.

A 2024 Yamaha WR250F. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Yamaha bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program

All 2024 Yamaha Motocross and Cross Country models are eligible for Yamaha’s current bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features nearly $7 million for Yamaha bLU cRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. Riders can earn contingency payouts via a bLU cRU debit card, receive a 10 percent rebate on GYTR parts and accessory purchases of up to $1,000, and receive a bLU cRU swag bag.

For complete details on how to register for the bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, website at: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/blucru-registration.

Learn more about Yamaha’s complete Motocross and Cross-Country lineup, as well as other Yamaha products at: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at: www.yamaha-motor.com/shop.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media site:

#Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa

www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa

www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

AHRMA: Joyce And Turpin Trade Vintage Cup Wins And DNFs At Talladega

David Swarts

-

September 13, 2023

0

AHRMA: Joyce And Turpin Trade Vintage Cup Wins And DNFs At Talladega

Joyce and Turpin share wins and spills at Talladega GP

(September 13, 2023, Knoxville, TN) Shane Turpin and Tim Joyce tested, and exceeded, the limit in their chase for the 2023 American Historic Racing Motorcycle (AHRMA) championship.

Sponsored by Hagerty Insurance, Roadracingworld.com, and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), AHRMA’s 2023 Vintage Cup features the Formula 750 (F750) class which includes 750cc two and four-stroke powered machines built up to 1972.

Rounds 17 and 18 of the Vintage Cup were held on September 9 and 10, 2023 in conjunction with the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Roadracing series at Talladega Gran Prix.

It’s a hot time in Alabama even in September. Going into Talladega, the Vintage Cup championship race was narrowed down to two riders: Shane Turpin and Tim Joyce.

Going into the Talladega Gran Prix rounds, Joyce, who races a NYC Norton 1968 Seeley NRE 750, was leading the points in the Vintage Cup series. Turpin, on a 1972 Ducati Imola, sponsored by Larrabure Framing and VeeTwo, joined the series mid-season and has raced himself into contention for the championship.

The rounds at Talladega were pivotal for either rider, and certain to affect the final championship outcome.

On Saturday, the race started with Joyce leading until the first corner where he was shoulder-to-shoulder with Turpin. Joyce pulled ahead and was well into the first lap when he realized Turpin had suffered a mechanical failure and had left the race. Joyce kept his head down and won the race, which was his 10th Vintage Cup victory and earned him enough points to possibly win the 2023 Vintage Cup championship.

Dan Sokolich on a 1977 Yamaha RD400 finishing second, Ben Schmitt rounding out the podium on his NYC Norton 1968 Seeley Commando in third, Bucky (James) Sexton on his 1970 BMW R75/5 in fourth, and Al Charles, AHRMA’s Road Race Director on a 1970 Triumph T-150 in fifth.

Turpin returned Sunday with a repaired motorcycle and took his grid position next to Joyce on the front row. The start was a repeat of Saturday’s with Turpin and Joyce again shoulder-to-shoulder going through the first turn with Turpin taking the advantage on the exit. Joyce passed Turpin entering the second turn, but Turpin went underneath Joyce into the next corner forcing Joyce to lean the bike harder to make it through the famous decreasing-radius turn.

Joyce accelerated hard, slid the rear wheel which then regained grip and launched Joyce in a spectacular high side and out of the race. Joyce walked away relatively unscathed as Turpin rode his Ducati to victory.

Sokolich was second place, with Justin Hebbel riding a 1972 BMW R75/5 in third, with AHRMA Road Race director Al Charles rounding out the grid.

“It has been a season of grueling competition and that began to show as some top riders began to deal with mechanical issues in practice,” said Carl Anderson, AHRMA’s 2023 Chairman of the Board. “Tim Joyce and the NYC Norton team seemed to do the best job of dealing with adversity and came out on top Saturday but crashed on Sunday while attempting to claim another win.”

Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton, said, “We came into Talladega with two riders and teams going head-to-head, and it was anyone’s guess what the outcome of these two races would be. Talladega is one of the shortest tracks on the schedule, but it brings some of the best race excitement. This weekend was no exception. Congratulations to Shane and Tim for your wins this weekend.”

Cummings reflected on the roller-coaster weekend, “As team owner and sponsor, I’m very happy with our outcome, but I must give credit where credit is due. The Larrabure/Turpin Ducati is a force to be reckoned with and we hope to see some good race action heading into our final rounds at Barber.”

The annual Vintage Cup spotlights one of AHRMA’s road racing classes with extra attention on competitors in the selected class during each race event. Enhanced awards for the Vintage Cup competitors are presented separately from other class trophies during the Saturday awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Road Race event.

Highlights from each Vintage Cup race will be reported in RoadracingWorld.com’s online edition. At the conclusion of each season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy will be engraved with the national champion winner’s name and presented to the winner at the National Awards Banquet to keep for one year.

2023 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Roadracing Series, Formula 750 – Vintage Cup Results

Saturday, September 9, 2023

1. Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley NRE 750, Springfield, VT

2. Dan Sokolich, 1977 Yamaha RD400, Washington, MO

3. Ben Schmitt, 1970 Norton Commando, Kearney, MO

4. Bucky (James) Sexton, 1970 BMW R75/5, York, PA

5. Albert Charles, 1970 Triumph T-150, Thornville, OH

Sunday, September 10, 2023

1. Shane Turpin, 1972 Ducati Imola, Scottsdale, AZ

2. Dan Sokolich, 1977 Yamaha RD400, Washington, MO

3. Justin Hebbel, 1972 BMW R75/5, Baltimore, MD

4. Albert Charles, 1970 Triumph T-150, Thornville, OH

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage machines along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With over 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

World Endurance: BMW Motorrad Team Claims Pole For Bol d’Or 24-Hour

September 15, 2023

Markus Reiterberger (37) on the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team M 1000 RR in France. Photo courtesy FIM EWC.