Honda CB750 Prototype Takes Top Honor At The Quail

David Swarts

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May 7, 2024

Honda CB750 Prototype Takes Top Honor At The Quail

RARE 1968 HONDA CB750 FACTORY PROTOTYPE SELECTED AS “BEST OF SHOW” AT THE QUAIL MOTORCYCLE GATHERING 2024

Over one thousand guests walked the lawns of The Quail at the world’s preeminent motorcycling celebration with more than 200 bikes on display

Carmel, Calif. (May 7, 2024) – The Quail Motorcycle Gathering returned to the pristine lawns of The Quail Golf Club for its 14th year where a 1968 Honda CB750 Factory Prototype, owned by Vic World, was selected as this year’s “Best of Show” winner. The CB750 was joined by dozens of other class winners that highlighted a diversity of motorcycles across different eras, styles and countries of origin. Despite rainy weather, more than one thousand attendees gathered to celebrate and enjoy an array of local food trucks, lifestyle vendors and live entertainment in a family-friendly setting.

The premier two-wheel event showcased four featured classes, alongside 10 returning traditional classes, that highlighted significant anniversaries and marques in motorcycling, including the 25th Anniversary of Suzuki Hayabusa, the 30th Anniversary of the Ducati 916, the 100th Anniversary of the American Motorcyclist Association and Vespa – Decades of Scooter Fun!.

In addition to the motorcycle classes, this year’s event featured unique sponsor displays from Yamaha and Indian Motorcycle, which highlighted a selection of iconic and new bikes, along with specialized motorcycle products. Other event sponsors included American Motorcyclist Association, Bonhams, Bring a Trailer, Heidenau Tires, Iconic Motorbikes, Law Tigers, Mecum Auctions, Walter Leather, WeatherTech Laguna Seca and Why We Ride.

“The enthusiasm for riding and unbridled passion within the motorcycling community never ceases to inspire, and it particularly shines through on a rainy day like we had this year,” said Gordon McCall, Director of Motorsports for The Peninsula Signature Events. “The Quail Motorcycle Gathering is truly a special event that celebrates the evolution of the motorcycle and motorcycling, and we are incredibly honored to work with our valued sponsors and vendors in creating the most anticipated motorcycle event of the year.”

Additional highlights of the 2024 The Quail Motorcycle Gathering involved a Fireside Chat with AMA Hall of Famer and 2024 Legend of the Sport Honoree Ricky Johnson, along with 2013 Legend of the Sport, AMA Hall of Famer and three-time MotoGP World Champion, Wayne Rainey, live music from local Monterey Bay reggae band The Rudians and a selection of local premium food and beverage options.

“Best in Class” awards were granted to one motorcycle in each of the classes, with the following honors also announced:

Antique 1st Place Presented By Bonhams

1930 Indian Big Chief

Mike Lynch

Antique 2nd Place Presented By Bonhams

1926 Moto Guzzi C2V Racer

Greg Saule

American 1st Place

1979 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide

John Ventura

American 2nd Place

1964 Harley-Davidson FLH

Jason McElroy

British 1st Place Presented by Heidenau Tires

1950 Triumph TR 5 Square Barrel

Bob Ives

British 2nd Place Presented by Heidenau Tires

1955 Vincent Series D Black Shadow and Watsonian Sidecar

Peter Kushner

Italian 1st Place

1979 Laverda Jota

Steven Lawrence

Italian 2nd Place

1955 Moto Guzzi Falcone Sport 500

Gianluca Baldo

Japanese 1st Place

1968 Honda CB750 Factory Prototype

Vic World

Japanese 2nd Place

1965 Honda CA77 Dream

Brad Yuill

Other European 1st Place

1976 BMW R90S

Kenneth Morris

Other European 2nd Place

1973 Egli-Honda EVH-750

Ed Holman

Competition On-Road

1966 Bultaco M-23 Metralla MK2 370CC Five Speed Road Racer

Robbie Cadwallader

Competition Off-Road

1992 Cagiva D92 Works Prototype Dakar Racer

Cory Muensterman

Choppers Award

1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Chopper

Richard Best

Custom/Modified 1st Place

1920’s Harley-Davidson Board Track Racer

Chris Ranuio

Custom/Modified 2nd Place

1938 Hazan Motorworks JAP 1000 (JTOS)

Jason Mamoa

Arlen Ness Memorial Award

1980 Harley-Davidson Sportster Custom

Richard Best

Why We Ride Award

1981 Honda ATC 200

Chris Funk

HVA

1960 Parilla Grand Sport

Jon Jacobson

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Heritage Award

1992 Cagiva D92 Works Prototype Dakar Racer

Cory Muensterman

Vespa – Decades of Scooter Fun!

1946 Vespa V98

Josh Rogers

25th Anniversary of the Suzuki Hayabusa

2006 Suzuki Hayabusa

Steve Wellman

30th Anniversary of the Ducati 916

1995 (1994) Ducati 916

Michael Long

Spirit Of The Quail Award

1973 Norton 750CC Vintage Seeley Racing Chassis Custom

Barry Weiss

Best of Show Award

1968 Honda CB750 Factory Prototype

Vic World

For more information, visit www.peninsula.com/en/signature-events and follow the action on Facebook and Instagram, @TheQuailEvents.

MotoGP: Clash Of The Titans To Continue At Le Mans

David Swarts

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May 7, 2024

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MotoGP: Clash Of The Titans To Continue At Le Mans

En garde! Prêts? Allez! MotoGP™ descends on Le Mans

Draw your swords and ready for battle as the world’s most exciting sport arrives in Sarthe

Monday, 06 May 2024

After their explosive coming together in Portugal, COTA offered a chance for more fireworks between reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). Yet it wasn’t to be, as Bagnaia didn’t quite find the pace and Marquez found the limit. But come Jerez, the rivalry was still bubbling and this time round, the pace of each matched the other and only the other. Two riders, two very different statements at stake, and one top step of the podium. It was a clash of the titans, a battle for the ages, and all other superlatives besides. And Bagnaia came out on top.

TO ERR IS HUMAN, TO BOUNCE BACK SUBLIME

Every time the reigning Champion falters – as all will, one day – the questions seem to come quick, despite the #1 never having been lost for an answer. They did after the Americas GP too, but what an answer. Everything seemed written to deliver Marc Marquez a homecoming fairytale, yet the reigning Champion seems to have a response for the #93 that many don’t. He had to find one at Aragon in 2021 to take his maiden win, and he did it again in Jerez. First, elbows out and muscling his way back into the lead. Second, allowing the lunge to sail past him so he could put the hammer down, wring out that fastest lap on Lap 23 of 25, and then keep it on rails to remain unthreatened to the flag. It was a sublime reminder for any who may have needed it.

That said, after the turmoil Marquez has lived since Jerez 2020, there is sublime to be found even in defeat. A first dry weather podium since 2022, and first with Ducati, would have little right coming tenths behind the reigning Champion on the newer bike – and after both bettered the old lap record – if it were many other riders. So if Bagnaia answered some questions in Jerez, so did Marquez. And the pure enjoyment the #93 radiates at being there – back in the mix, readying that final throw of the dice or that divebomb for glory he’s said he has to try to allow himself to sleep at night? That’s its own statement. To his fans. To his rivals. To his enemies. It’s why he made one of the biggest rider moves in the history of the sport, and it’s paying off. He may be sixth overall but he’s 32 points off the top and he’s only getting quicker. Jerez was a sublime scalp for Bagnaia, but Marquez didn’t win eight Championships by never losing out. He won them by obliging his rivals to need sublime every single week.

ONWARDS & UPWARDS

Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) remains so, however. The #89 was looking down the barrel of a potentially monumental points advantage on Sunday in Jerez, but a crash out the lead and the win for Bagnaia – who was ten points closer to him than Marc Marquez – leaves him nursing a much-reduced 17-point lead, and over the #1. It’s still very much Martin’s lead, however, and he’s got at least a little breathing space to try to iron out those scrappy moments and build it back up. Can he? Le Mans has never really been his track, but he’s the points leader for a reason and this season that’s from improved consistency more than pure explosive pace at every venue. Which he’ll likely have at plenty of circuits still to come…

Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), meanwhile, was right back in the mix at Jerez – something that could be key after the Spanish GP was a tougher one last season. As the paddock heads for somewhere that was the opposite – Le Mans, a track he absolutely reigned in 2023 – Bezzecchi is likely feeling a lot more ready to rumble than he was on the tails of a tougher pre-season. Can the Italian cause some trouble – in the best way – at the front this time round too?

Elsewhere on Ducati machinery, Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) will be happier to have beaten Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) to P4 in Jerez, but both will feel they belong closer to the podium, and Bastianini to the win after he’d previously had the advantage on Bagnaia. Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), meanwhile, has building pace but will want Sunday results – and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) is looking for more too after his teammate got back on the podium at Jerez.

SHARK IN THE WATER

At KTM and GASGAS, there’s plenty to talk about, and first it has to be rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3). A Sprint podium at Jerez in front of a rapturous crowd was another notable result, with the stage seemingly set for Sunday. But a big crash in Warm Up – rider ok – and then some adventures during the race saw him forced to fight back from down the order to complete the top ten. What does he have at Le Mans? Last year in Moto2™ it saw him make a mistake that still angered him by the flyaways – one his track record says he’s unlikely to repeat.

Meanwhile, Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) will want a smoother weekend after a couple of expensive tumbles of late, but Sunday at Jerez saw the South African take another good haul of points. He’s not here for that though, he’s here for glory. For Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) it’s a case of finding that staying power at the front, and for Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) it’s try and replicate his storming performance to P4 in France last year.

ACE UP THEIR SLEEVE?

After his showstopper at COTA, Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) had a tougher Jerez. Conditions in qualifying put Aprilia on the back foot, then he was (one of many) Sprint crashers, and then he got beaten by Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) on Sunday. But the Spanish GP probably isn’t a benchmark to judge COTA as an outlier. That will more likely come at venues like Catalunya, Silverstone, Misano, Phillip Island… and Le Mans? It wouldn’t be a shock to see Viñales pulling out another ace card in France. He knows what it takes to win at the venue, and under some serious pressure.

For Aleix Espargaro, meanwhile, it’s been a tougher season so far and Le Mans proves the next opportunity to start rebuilding that, just as at Trackhouse, it seems Oliveira did just that in Jerez. He came home as top Aprilia in the GP race and will want to build on that as silly season starts to ramp up, putting some pressure on the factory riders. Teammate Raul Fernandez also found some positives in Jerez but more will be sought in Sarthe as he aims for the top ten week in week out.

HOME HEROES LOOKING FOR MORE

Yamaha had a tougher Jerez, although there was a surprise – they would agree after a tough qualifying – result in the Sprint for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) of P5 despite that penalty. Sunday was a tough one though as El Diablo could only rescue 1 point after starting right near the back, and teammate Alex Rins was ahead too.

At Le Mans, there will be the standard goals: improve their pace, work on that qualifying speed, get a better position on the grid as a starting point. But it’s also home turf for France’s first ever premier class World Champion and Quartararo will want to reward the crowd’s devotion – and most definitely beat his teammate this time around.

At Honda, there was talk of a new direction at the Jerez Test, and they put in plenty of laps. They’ll be hoping they can start to dig in and move forward, although there were some positives from the race weekend as Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) finished as top Honda in P12, ahead of both factory Yamahas. Still, Mir, teammate Luca Marini, Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) and Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) want more. For Zarco too, a late crash in the Sprint robbed him of some good points, and Sunday saw some scuffles hampering his progress – so he’ll be absolutely pushing on home turf to give the fans a show.

The fans at Le Mans will most definitely reciprocate as the packed grandstands prepare to welcome MotoGP™ back to Sarthe. It’s a classic for a reason and with rivalries bubbling, the Championship gap closing and track records providing some interesting reason, you don’t want to miss it – so make sure to tune in for the Michelin® Grand Prix de France!

TISSOT SPRINT: 15:00 (UTC +2) on Saturday

GRAND PRIX RACE: 14:00 on Sunday

Video: KTM Developing 990 RC R Streetbike

David Swarts

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May 7, 2024

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Video: KTM Developing 990 RC R Streetbike

NEVER STOP! KTM RESPONDS TO THE DEMANDS OF ORANGE BLEEDERS

KTM is driven by innovation, extreme experiences, and emotion. KTM also lives by the motto READY TO RACE, and with the accumulation of 341 FIM World Championships since the late 1970s (and in virtually all motorcycle racing disciplines), it’s clear how racing steers the breed of the brand. It’s been over fifteen years since KTM last produced an authentic road homologated performance sports bike for the masses. The company is harnessing all their expertise, gained through efforts in MotoGP™, thousands of track laps, wins and podiums, to fire the KTM 990 RC R to life.

A 2025 KTM 990 RC R prototype. Photo courtesy KTM.

Essential Information

KTM Roars Ahead: Unleashing the Dominant KTM 990 RC R Range. The principle KTM 990 RC R, which is set to roll off the Mattighofen production line in early 2025, has a dedicated Supersport persona but will be homologated for street use, catering to the desires of orange enthusiasts fixated on track days and individuals seeking to maintain the adrenaline rush with an exceptionally capable street bike. The all-new development embodies the fusion of Austrian engineering excellence and the ferocious racing DNA, delivering unrivaled performance while embracing the practical demands of the road.

The KTM 990 RC R will excite enthusiasts with its street homologated model, but its race DNA will be intentionally unveiled in early 2024 in the form of a prototype, making appearances as a wildcard entry in non-point scoring outings across select European Supersport series, igniting anticipation among fans. KTM believes in developing this newcomer to their stable in the most READY TO RACE way possible – through racing.

KTM is also filming a multi-part behind-the-scenes documentary about the R&D journey of the bike and its entry into the Supersport sector. This exclusive behind-the-scenes content will give viewers close, and not usually seen, insights into the fast-paced world of the Austrian-based factory and what it takes to craft a motorcycle from an idea into reality. Follow the final stages of the research and development process moving all the way from the very beginning to the final unveiling of the finished street homologated version of the KTM 990 RC R. The first episode airs today – 7 May @ 8:00 AM PDT/11:00 AM EDT. Be the first to uncover exclusive details! Click HERE for the inside scoop.

The Purpose

Over the last fifteen years, KTM metered sport-orientated road products to the public at a time when the company was extending its offroad racing prowess to the asphalt: the KTM RC8, the KTM RC 390 and the track-only, limited edition KTM RC 8C were the prime examples. Across that period KTM has merged R&D, learning, and road racing accomplishments at a rapid rate. The company now caters to motorcyclists seeking a machine born from competition yet engineered to be the ultimate, advanced street tool. The search to minimize hard compromises brought on by overly sporty ergonomics and handling is over. The KTM 990 RC R has been years in the making and with a wealth of data garnered by titles and trophies in almost every category of various MotoGP™ categories. The bike represents the natural evolution of the current KTM RC line-up, yet its sporting potential allows for a straightforward conversion into a KTM 990 RC R TRACK edition. True to the READY TO RACE ethos, this edition is poised to make its debut in the second quarter of 2025.

The Product(s)

The street homologated KTM 990 RC R boasts an LC8c powerplant, honed for rasping torque and horsepower, pumped out through the new ergo-crafted and condensed stainless steel muffler and fettled through a shifter that can be reversed to race-shift as standard.

The steel frame has been engineered for dynamic performance, with increased weight bias towards the front end. It features a dedicated steering head angle of 25 degrees and offset for enhanced steering responsiveness. Beefed-up stiffness gives the right feel and stability under acceleration on bumpy roads or on racetracks while also maintaining agility, especially at low speeds. A diecast aluminum subframe contributes to the ride.

Ergonomics are key to the KTM 990 RC R’s behavior. Lengthy experimentation primed the six contact points on the tank for a better connection, leaning and ‘tucking in’ to ensure comfort but also support for knees, arms, and lower pressure on the hands. A new fuel tank has been shaped as a main component of the ergo. Adjustable footrests play a part, as well as the fully adjustable WP APEX Open Cartridge Suspension and light weight cast aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin tires.

The MotoGP™ heritage is evident with the wind-tunnel-chiseled aero wings that provide stability for braking and cornering and other edges and profiling around the bodywork that screams ‘racer’.

If there were any lingering doubts about the bike’s intended purpose, the minimal modifications required for the transition to the KTM 990 RC R TRACK edition should indisputably reinforce its racing pedigree. Crafted by KTM in their Austrian factory, the modifications strip away the road-legal essentials, incorporate protective components, fine-tune adjustments, customize further, and revise racing bodywork, including a full exhaust system. These modifications ensure that riders focus on lap times rather than leisurely rides. Additionally, the ease of repair, low maintenance requirements, and extensive official dealer support provide further advantages.

The Promise

“The KTM 990 RC R is a groundbreaking innovation for those who live for the thrill of cornering. It’s for those who lean close to the road, almost brushing their knees, and then push the limits, dragging elbow to the tarmac on the racetrack. This bike offers power and prestige without the exorbitant price tag. ‘At last, we can unveil our KTM 990 RC R and introduce a truly exceptional motorcycle to dealerships in early 2025, fulfilling the anticipation of countless riders and race enthusiasts. Our DUKE Range and other Street products have garnered a loyal following for their distinct character; we believe the KTM 990 RC R will quickly attain cult status because it excels at the two things it was designed for so remarkably well. Success will be evident on the track, but the unparalleled experience for customers on the road will truly set it apart.” says Riaan Neveling, Head of KTM Global Marketing.

The countdown to early 2025 starts right now. Follow the final stages of development in the special documentary video series.

Visit KTM.com to learn more about the KTM 990 RC R

American Flat Track: Ventura Short Track Is Saturday, May 11

David Swarts

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May 7, 2024

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American Flat Track: Ventura Short Track Is Saturday, May 11

Back to the Beach: Progressive AFT Returns to Ventura Raceway

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 7, 2024) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is set to make its second-ever stop at Ventura Raceway this Saturday, May 11, for the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track in Ventura, California.

Last season’s inaugural visit proved memorable for both the race action and the setting. With the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean just beyond the fences that line the venue’s 1/5-mile dirt oval, the world’s greatest motorcycle dirt trackers put on a remarkable show in front of a packed house.

Mission AFT SuperTwins title aspirant Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) ultimately came out on top following a day that saw lines and strategies continually tested and re-evaluated.

Not surprisingly, Daniels was joined on the podium by reigning Grand National Champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) as their double-digit podium streaks overlapped in California.

Meanwhile, 2024 championship leader Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) missed out after getting caught up in an accordion-style crash that also claimed Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), and Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Dodge Bros. Racing/Castrol Harley-Davidson XR750).

Robinson is eager to not just make amends but extend a title advantage built upon four consecutive podiums highlighted by a pair of victories. Lewis, Vanderkooi, and Halbert, similarly, have the skills to flip the script this weekend.

Uncharacteristically, two-time series king Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) has yet to finish on the podium this season. That feels like a drought destined to be corrected in short order, perhaps as quickly and convincingly as by way of a victorious performance this weekend.

This weekend will see Kayl Kolkman (No. 98 Underground Suspension/Ohlins USA Yamaha MT-07) race in a Progressive AFT round for the first time since the series’ last stop at Ventura Raceway. For the past 15 years, Kolkman has never raced more than a limited schedule, but he’s a threat to upset the established order whenever and wherever he turns up. That’s most definitely true on his home turf, as the Ventura native clocked the fastest time in practice and paced a qualifying session a year ago.

Several others merit monitoring, including the likes of Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Corbin/OTBR Yamaha MT-07), and Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Vinson/Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Transalp), along with premier-class rookies Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing KTM 790 Duke), Declan Bender (No. 70 GOMR/BriggsAuto.com/Martin Trucking Indian FTR750), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Big Red Super Twins/Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Transalp).

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

Last year’s Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER Main Event at Ventura Raceway ranked as among the most rollicking of the entire season. On that night, double defending champion Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) took the honors at the conclusion of a spectacular showdown with fellow prodidy Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R).

Kopp returns with the points lead and a pair of early-season Short Track wins working in his favor, while Saathoff is fresh off his long-awaited maiden Progressive AFT win and motivated to immediately claim a second.

If the entertainment factor of a prospective rematch wasn’t enough on its own, throw in Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), who wouldn’t fully find his front-running form until the round after Ventura one year ago.

While Kopp, Saathoff, and Drane come into the weekend ranked first through third in the points and the odds-on podium favorites, the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles class is famous for springing surprises. Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450), and Logan Eisenhard (No. 66 Hannum’s Harley-Davidson KTM 450 SX-F) are just a sampling of the riders with the potential to upset the plans of the top three.

And don’t overlook the contingent of quick Californians hoping to impress in their home state, a crew that includes the likes of Travis Petton IV (No. 82 ECG Racing/A.M Ortega KTM 450 SX-F), Tyler Raggio (No. 55 Raggio Racing/Sluggo Racing KTM 450 SX-F), and Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R).

Off-track attractions will be in abundance as well, with numerous vendors, designated motorcycle parking, and a variety of food and beverage options featured on site.

General Admission Grandstand tickets are $45 (kids 12 and under $5), while Reserved Grandstand tickets are only $10 more (All Ages). Back this season, a Pit Pass Upgrade provides all-day access to the pit area where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Tickets are going fast, so visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/ventura-short-track-85607 to reserve your seats today.

Gates will open for fans at 5:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT). You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities on FloRacing. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2024. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

FOX Sports coverage of the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, May 19, at 12:00 p.m. ET (9:00 a.m. PT).

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

British Superbike: Race Two And Race Three Results From Oulton Park

David Swarts

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May 6, 2024

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British Superbike: Race Two And Race Three Results From Oulton Park

Race 2
Race 3
Points after Race 3

More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:

Hat-trick for Hager PBM Ducati and Irwin at Oulton Park

Glenn Irwin (2) held off Christian Iddon (21) to win Race Three. Photo courtesy MSVR.

Glenn Irwin and the Hager PBM Ducati completed the hat-trick of wins at Oulton Park, holding off Christian Iddon to the line in the final race by just 0.128s to snatch the Bennetts British Superbike Championship lead ahead of the next round at Donington Park.

Irwin was victorious in yesterday’s opening race to give Frank and Jordan Bird their first win as PBM Team Owners and he carried the momentum into the Bank Holiday Monday action to hold off the opposition twice, in two close contests for glory.

In race two, Irwin withstood the pressure from reigning champion Tommy Bridewell, Iddon and Danny Kent who completed the pack fighting for the lead to win by 0.352s.

Irwin had hit the front of the pack on the opening lap ahead of Iddon, Bridewell and Kent, but the reigning champion was pushing hard.

Bridewell edged into second with a move on Iddon at Cascades on lap eight and then held off Iddon and Kent to score his first podium finish with Honda Racing UK, as Oxford Products Racing Ducati’s Iddon defended from Kent to take third.

Irwin was determined to make it a treble, but he had to overhaul Iddon who had got a lightning start off the line to lead on the opening lap of the third race. The Oxford Products Racing Ducati rider was trying to make a break and after some rapid laps he had started to edge an advantage.

Irwin reeled him back in though and then he was looking for the opportunity he needed to make a pass. Iddon held off the challenge from his Ducati rival until lap 12 when Irwin was able to take the lead with a move on the brakes into Hizzys.

Irwin then had to defend hard as Iddon was pushing for the victory, but despite his best efforts, the Hager PBM Ducati rider had the edge to the chequered flag.

Ryan Vickers meanwhile had a determined ride to close in on the leading trio of Irwin, Iddon and Kent in the closing stages of the race, bridging the gap to his McAMS Racing Yamaha rival before snatching the final podium position with a move at Hizzys on the last lap.

Kent missed out on third place by just 0.154s at the finish as Haslam claimed fifth place for the ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad team with Bridewell taking sixth ahead of Jason O’Halloran.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park, Race two result:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati)
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +0.352s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.586s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +0.687s
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +2.396s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +3.106s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad Team) +3.703s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) +4.016s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +4.286s
Max Cook (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +5.451s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park, Race three, result:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati)
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) + 0.128s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +0.511s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +0.665s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) +5.945s
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +6.077s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +6.195s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad Team) +11.025s
Max Cook (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +16.629s
Storm Stacey (LKQ Euro Car Parts Kawasaki) +19.743s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati) 74
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 68
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 67
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) 64
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 55
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) 47
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) 44
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) 42
Max Cook (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) 30
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) 29

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

Glenn Irwin

Hager PBM Ducati

“Sunday’s race was very enjoyable and races like that, when you lead for so long, are the sweet ones. We did the hard work learning the bike through testing and practice so set the pace from the front.

“I like to lead and control the race from there so with the fastest lap of the race as well, it couldn’t have worked out better. We stayed focused for today which we needed to do as we were constantly making changes to the bike and we improved a number of key factors which we needed to win – resilience, determination and precision being three.

“We had to show our character too and boxed professionally this weekend so the treble was nothing short of what the team deserved. A big thanks to Jordan, Frank and the whole team.”

Moto2: Roberts Leads World Championship Heading Into Le Mans

David Swarts

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May 6, 2024

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Moto2: Roberts Leads World Championship Heading Into Le Mans

Moto2™: Roberts in the hot seat on the road to Le Mans

It took a little longer than many thought it would, himself likely included, but Fermin Aldeguer (Folladore SpeedUp) finally pocketed a full fat 25 points on home turf to kick his title chase up a gear. It was a flawless performance from the Spaniard, who now sits 15 points behind our new Moto2™ World Championship leader – Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing). The American trumped Aldeguer to Moto2™ ride of the day – depending who you ask of course – in Jerez when he came from P11 on the grid to finish just 1.2s behind the race winner.

Roberts’ third consecutive P2 finish means he’s the first American to lead a Grand Prix World Championship since the late Nicky Hayden in 2006, and in Le Mans – a track he likes – it’ll be that first win he’s craving after an impressive run of three P2s on the bounce. Meanwhile, following a P4 in Jerez, former standings leader Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) is now five points adrift of the Moto2™ summit heading to a track he won at in 2021 in the lightweight class… so the target will be clear.

It’ll be more than just the top three in the Championship who will be challenging at the front though. Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) scored his second podium of the season in Jerez and is now P4 overall, ahead of Alonso Lopez (Folladore SpeedUp) who needs to rebound after a DNF. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) won in France last year and will be hoping a P7 can be the catalyst he needs to properly get going in 2024.

MotoGP: 850cc Engines And Many Other Changes Starting In 2027

David Swarts

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May 6, 2024

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MotoGP: 850cc Engines And Many Other Changes Starting In 2027

Welcome to the future of MotoGP™: new bikes in 2027

Safer, more sustainable and even more spectacular – get ready for more MotoGP™ than ever as new regulations land in 2027

Monday, 06 May 2024

MotoGP™ will introduce new bikes from 2027, with new regulations set to make the sport safer, more sustainable and even more spectacular. The new machines will be more road relevant and more efficient, powering global sustainability, and are designed to create even better racing and even more overtaking. Welcome to the future of MotoGP™.

ENGINES

From 2027, engine size will be reduced from 1000cc to 850cc. This will decrease top speeds, making the sport safer, and increase mileage, making it more efficient and sustainable. The maximum bore will reduce from 81 to 75 millimetres, which will also limit performance. This makes the engines more road-relevant at the same time as ensuring they keep the characteristics that make MotoGP™ as spectacular as it is.

To make the sport even more efficient, the maximum number of engines allowed for each rider in a season will also reduce, from seven to six.

FUEL

As already announced, MotoGP™ will race with 100% sustainable fuel from 2027 – rising from the minimum 40% the sport has raced with since 2024. As part of the new regulations, fuel tank capacity will also reduce, from 22 litres to 20, and riders will be allowed to use 11 litres during the Tissot Sprint.

AERODYNAMICS

Aerodynamics will be reduced and more tightly controlled from 2027, with the aim of minimising their negative effects. The width of the top of the front fairing will be 50mm narrower and the nose will be pushed back 50mm, reducing the effect of aero where it matters, on the straights and the braking areas. This will create even closer racing, with even more overtaking.

At the back, the aero behind the rider will be part of the homologation from 2027, and teams will only be allowed to update that once per season to control costs.

RIDE-HEIGHT AND HOLESHOT DEVICES

In the new era from 2027, all ride-height and holeshot devices will be banned. That will control performance and make the sport safer, especially during race starts. This will also give even more importance to the skill of each rider, just like aero, is aimed at increasing their ability to overtake.

GPS DATA

To level the playing field even further, GPS data from all riders will be available to all teams after each session. Providing data to all competitors offers better opportunities to progress for the less performing teams and riders, and at a controlled cost. Access to this range of data will help make the sport safer, and it will also increase the level of insight available to fans around the world.

CONCESSIONS

The current concession system, introduced at the end of the 2023 season, will continue – but as the new technical regulations come into force in 2027, all manufacturers will start the season in Rank B. They will then be assessed again mid-season, in summer 2027, and can change rank up or down to have access to more or less concessions. This reactive system means manufacturers’ performance is taken into account from Day 1, keeping the playing field as close as possible as a new era begins.

For the riders, for the sport, for the show: MotoGP™ in 2027 will be safer, more sustainable, and even more spectacular than ever.

GPC: 2027 MotoGP™ technical regulations

The full Grand Prix Commission document detailing the regulations can be found below.

Decisions_of_the_Grand_Prix_Commission_06_May_2024

ASRA: Race Results From Pittsburgh International Race Complex

David Swarts

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May 5, 2024

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ASRA: Race Results From Pittsburgh International Race Complex

Race results from the ASRA Championship Series event held May 4-5 at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, in Wampum, Pennsylvania. For more information, go to www.asraracing.com.

British Superbike: Race One Results From Oulton Park

David Swarts

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May 5, 2024

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British Superbike: Race One Results From Oulton Park

Race 1

More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:

Irwin takes poignant first victory for Hager PBM Ducati in their new era

Glenn Irwin claimed the poignant first win for the Hager PBM Ducati in their new era as he pushed to the front of the field on the opening laps, hitting the lead on lap three and then held off Christian Iddon to celebrate victory.

At the start of the race, Ryan Vickers had launched off the line to lead the pack from Kyle Ryde, Glenn Irwin and Christian Iddon. The Hager PBM Ducati rider was determined, moving into second at Shell Oils corner on the opening lap, and then made his move on Vickers for the lead at Hizzys a lap later.

As Glenn Irwin held the lead, Iddon was on the move and he moved from fourth into second by lap four with a decisive pass on Vickers at Old Hall. Iddon then set his sights on his Ducati rival and the gap continued to change between the pair throughout the race, but despite a dramatic last lap moment, Irwin had the edge.

The win gives the PBM team an emotional first victory under the new leadership of Jordan and Frank Bird.

Iddon celebrated a strong second place, whilst the battle for third was raging between the OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing pairing and a determined Tommy Bridewell. Ryde charged into a podium position on lap 12 at Lodge and was able to bridge a minor advantage. However, Bridewell was in the hunt and he claimed fourth place with five laps to go, pushing Vickers back into fifth.

Vickers and Danny Kent scrapped for fifth with the pair trading places until the finish line, with Vickers holding the advantage from his McAMS Racing Yamaha rival by 0.093s at the chequered flag.

Jason O’Halloran held off the earlier challenges from Rory Skinner to take seventh with Josh Brookes and Leon Haslam completing the top ten.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park, Race 1 result:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati)
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +1.069s
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +2.069s
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +2.588s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +5.885s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +5.978s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +8.150s
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings BMW Motorrad) +10.501s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +12.726s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) +12.894s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 47
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 44
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) 40
Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati) 38
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 37
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) 25
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) 23
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) 21
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings BMW Motorrad) 19
Charlie Nesbitt (MasterMac Honda) 19

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

Glenn Irwin

Hager PBM Ducati

“I got quite a good launch off the line, as did Kyle from pole and Ryan. I knew Ryan looked like he had really good pace from the Free Practice runs, so I was quite eager to have a look at him.

“I managed to get Kyle quite easily out of Turn three, the new tarmac is helping the Ducati and its weaknesses of edge grip because its so grippy round Cascades that we can now match the Yamahas in that corner and use our speed.

“Ryan was more difficult to pass. They clearly were running two different set-ups in power because his bike was really fast, to be truthfully honest, kind of surprising. I obviously passed him in Knickerbrook which you wouldn’t pass a Yamaha usually in there and that was more for a bit of fun, it was on lap one, that’s all that was. And then you think, ‘oh am I showing my hand too early’ but it was a bit of craic and yeah we enjoyed the race.

“Fair play to Iddo, it’s nice to see him competitive again. I said in the Eurosport interview, I think their bike was not the same spec as ours last year in terms of some chassis components. They now have that and he was really, really strong. So hats off to him, its always good to be competitive after a year or so when you haven’t been.

“I’m happy for other people as well but just grateful to represent this amazing team. Thanks to Hager for stepping up and all the other team sponsors. First monkey off my back this year and we can go and have another two cracks at it tomorrow.”

FIM JuniorGP: Salmela Wins At Estoril

David Swarts

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May 5, 2024

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Editorial Note: In European Talent Cup, American Kristian Daniel Jr. qualified sixth, DNF in wet Race One, and finished 15th in wet Race Two.

Flying Finn Salmela charges hard to ignite FIM JuniorGP™ title bid in Estoril

Six races in Portugal didn’t disappoint as mixed weather conditions throw up some surprise results at the Circuito do Estoril

Rain, sun, then a bit more rain was the order of the day as a fascinating day of FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship played out at the Circuito do Estoril, with debut winners emerging from the tricky conditions. Rico Salmela (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP Junior Team) became a JuniorGP™ winner for the first time as Carlos Cano (SeventyTwo ARTBOX Racing Team) doubled up in the European Talent Cup, while Mattia Casadei (Team Ciatti – Boscoscuro) and Roberto Garcia (Fantic Cardoso Racing) shared the spoils in Moto2™. Meanwhile, in the Stock race, Adrian Rodriguez (SF Racing) became a winner in the class for the very first time.

With the rain stopping an hour or so before JuniorGP™ lights out, large parts of the Estoril surface had dried up as mixed tyre options were selected for the only race of the day. Jesus Rios (MRE Talent) and Casey James O’Gorman (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) were two of the top riders who opted for at least one wet tyre, but the eventual podium finishers all went for slick front, slick rear.

Salmela wasn’t in the fight for the podium at the start, but the Finn bridged the gap rapidly and once he hit the front, there was no looking back. O’Gorman suffered a late crash out of P2 just as the Irishman was piling on the pressure, which left polesitter Cormac Buchanan (AGR Team) and Marcos Uriarte (CFMOTO Aspar Junior Team) to squabble over P2 and P3. In the end, Salmela won by 2.5s as Uriarte pipped third place Buchanan to P2. Rios crossed the line in P26 to pick up no points from Estoril as he aims to bounce back on home turf in Barcelona next time out.

Race 1 was all about Casadei’s wet weather dance to a commanding victory as the Italian sailed to his first 25 points in the class. 12 seconds was his advantage at the chequered flag over second place Jorge Navarro (Forward EEST Racing), the experienced Spaniard picking up a podium in his first outing, as Taiga Hada (GAS UP Racing Team) returned to the rostrum for the first time since 2021 with a well earned P3.

Race 2 saw contrasting conditions emerge as a dry race unfolded, with Garcia producing a scintillating comeback to claim a debut win from P15. Casadei didn’t have an answer for the Spaniard in the afternoon but a P2 – and 45 more points – sees him take the Championship lead into Round 3. Third place went to Alberto Ferrandez (Finetwork Team), that’s his second podium of the season, with Alberto Surra (Team Ciatti – Boscoscuro) crashing out in Race 2 as the Italian endures a tougher weekend at the office in Estoril.

It was wet, but it was a wonderful performance from Cano in the opening European Talent Cup race of the day as the young Spaniard proved a ray of sunshine amid the miserable Estoril conditions on Sunday morning. The #71 went from pole to the top step in Portugal with almost six seconds in his back pocket as Misano victor Marco Morelli (MLav Racing) settled for second, with Fernando Bujosa (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) coming through the long lap penalty loop and some stiff competition for the final podium place. Victory saw Cano move to within 20 points of title leader Morelli, with a second race to come.

It was a case of same outcome, different circumstances in Race 2 as Cano made it a perfect Portuguese weekend with another win, but this time it was much closer than a few hours earlier. In the dry conditions, the top 10 crossed the line 0.9s apart in a brilliant ETC encounter that saw Jesus Torres (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) and Valentine Perrone (Frando Racing VHC Team) stand on the rostrum for the first time in 2024. After Morelli crashed out in Race 2, Cano tops the Championship heading to Barcelona.

In the final race of the day, drama was delivered in spades. Rodriguez came from P4 to take a maiden Stock Championship victory in a restarted race, with Iker Garcia (Yamaha GV Racing) and Francisco Ruiz (DR Andifer Team) debuting on the podium in the class.

Having seen the track dry out after morning rain, the heavens opened once more after just three laps, with polesitter and then race leader Dino Iozzo (IUM Motorsports) highsiding and hitting the deck coming out of Turn 9. The red flags waved and the race restarted, but without the South African on pole as he and teammate Declan Van Rosmalen launched from pitlane after deciding not to go out with the rest of the field. That left Rodriguez unobstructed as he got the perfect launch, though Garcia, Ruiz and Alex Millan (Team Zivimotor) all took turns in the lead.

It was a tight-knit quartet until the final lap, when Rodriguez then posted the best race lap as he stole a march to victory, with Millan the one to lose out in an entertaining podium battle. Lorenzo Dall Porta (Yamaha GV Racing), Misano winner and current Championship leader, came home in a lonely P5 to preserve his lead.

What a weekend in Estoril! New winners emerge as Barcelona for Round 3 now appears on the horizon.

You can also find all the results, videos, photos and information regarding the championship on the official website: www.fimjuniorgp.com

Honda CB750 Prototype Takes Top Honor At The Quail

May 7, 2024

A 1968 Honda CB750 Factory Prototype, owned by Vic World, was selected as this year’s “Best of Show” winner. Photo courtesy The Quail Motorcycle Gathering.