How To Identify Real Vanson Leathers

David Swarts

-

March 28, 2024

Vanson has been producing jackets, riding/racing suits, and other leather goods at its facility in the Boston, Massachusetts, area since 1974.

While the brand has been well known to motorcycle racers and riders for years, Vanson has more recently caught the attention of the fashion world and with that the attention of counterfeiters.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to identify real Vanson goods from cheap counterfeit fakes.

According to Vanson:

Make sure the label matches the one pictured here.

This label should say “Fall River MASS,” but older Vanson products will say “Boston MASS.”

The pull tab on the zipper has a big V and says “Vanson USA.”

A unit number (like the one seen on the leather tag on the zipper in the photo) will be embossed on the item, including gloves and bags.

The top-quality workmanship on the item should be evident, like straight lines of stitching.

And as anyone who has worn Vanson leathers know, they are made from robust pieces of leather that can also be described as heavy.

And if there’s still any doubt, potential buyers of Vanson leathers can also contact the company at (508) 678-2000, www.vansonleathers.com, and all social media.

Yamaha Opens Electric Drive Unit Assembly Line In France

Uncategorized

David Swarts

-

March 28, 2024

0

Yamaha Opens Electric Drive Unit Assembly Line In France

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe inaugurates the new Drive Unit assembly line

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. (YME) and Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe (YMME) celebrated today the inauguration of the completely new Drive Unit assembly line at the factory in Saint Quentin, France.

The new Drive Unit assembly line follows Yamaha Motor’s commitment to a local European manufacturing as a competitive and sustainable advantage to better and quicker serve its eBikes OEM customers’ needs in Europe.

The Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe facility in Saint Quentin, France. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

The assembly line is a new addition to the already large portfolio of YMME, which continues its diversification into a multi-products factory and towards the electric mobility. YMME – formerly known as MBK Industrie – has been manufacturing Yamaha flagship models such as the Ténéré 700, MT-125 and XMAX, assembling the new range of Yamaha eBikes and customizing Yamaha’s Powered Two-Wheelers and ATVs for European-specific needs already for many years.

Giving the event extra lustre, the inauguration took place in the presence of Mr. Thomas Campeaux, Prefect of Aisne France, Mr. Xavier Bertrand, President of region Hauts-de-France, Mrs. Fréderique Macarez, mayor of Saint Quentin France, Mr. Tjeerd Jegen, CEO of Accell Group, Mr. Kenichi Muraki, Executive Officer and Executive General Manager of Smart Power Vehicle Business Unit at Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and other representatives from Yamaha headquarters in Japan and Yamaha Motor Europe.

This production line will produce Yamaha’s drive unit PWseries S2, designed for the high volume Sport and Trail sectors.

Yamaha electric drive units at the Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe plant in France. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

Olivier Prévost, President and CEO, Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.

I’m very pleased with the establishment and opening of this new production line at our factory in France as already for some years this has been in our plans for the future. For YMME it means that it heightens its vital role within the Yamaha operations and also that it underlines once more its status as a Yamaha multi-products manufacturing site. And, last but not least, producing locally in Europe contributes to leaving a more sustainable footprint within our operations, which remains a key target for Yamaha at global level, and is providing a competitive advantage in an industrial environment where we give more and more importance to the sustainability and flexibility in the supply chain.

Clement Villet, Director Land Mobility, Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.

Whether it is for our traditional business or electric mobility, the role of YMME is important to better serve the European markets and to respond swiftly to the ever-changing needs of customers. In that respect, with the opening of the Drive Unit assembly line we will be able to supply our eBikes OEM customers swiftly and with shorter lead times, contributing to a more agile and reactive production planning.

Kato Named New President Of Yoshimura Japan

David Swarts

-

March 28, 2024

0

Kato Named New President Of Yoshimura Japan

Editorial Note: Yohei Kato is the grandson of Yoshimura founder Hideo “Pop” or “Pops” Yoshimura and his wife Naoe Yoshimura.

Yoshimura Japan Announces New President

As of 21st March 2024, Yoshimura Japan makes change in its president from Fujio Yoshimura to Yohei Kato.

Greeting from new President

It is with great honor that I, Yohei Kato, will be assuming the position of President of YOSHIMURA JAPAN, taking over from Fujio Yoshimura, as we mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the company established by Pop Yoshimura (Hideo Yoshimura) in 1954.

As we move forward, transcending the boundaries of the traditional racing team, I will be the third generation to inherit this esteemed Yoshimura brand. I pledge to continue the Yoshimura spirit, imparted to us by our predecessors, without alteration. Through racing activities, events, and our products, I vow to strive alongside my fellow employees to provide our users with even greater “inspiration and satisfaction” in line with the Yoshimura ism.

Furthermore, I am determined to carry out my duties with conviction and dedication, ensuring that our company remains attractive not only to our users but also to our employees. I sincerely ask for your continued patronage and guidance.

Thank you very much for your support.

Yohei Kato

Suzuki Hayabusa Anniversary Celebration Scheduled April 27 In Concord, NC

David Swarts

-

March 28, 2024

0

Suzuki Hayabusa Anniversary Celebration Scheduled April 27 In Concord, NC

SUZUKI HAYABUSA ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION COMING TO CONCORD, NC

“Hayabusa Homecoming” Set for April 27th at NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway

Brea, CA – March 28, 2024 – Coming off the success of the inaugural Hayabusa Homecoming held at the National Hot Rod Association’s Pomona World Finals in November, Suzuki Motor USA invites Suzuki owners to join another Hayabusa Homecoming, a commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa. The Homecoming will be held during the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at the NHRA Drag Racing Series at zMAX Dragway in Concord, NC on April 27th.

Pre-registered owners of Suzuki motorcycles will receive free grandstand entry on Saturday, April 27th, and complimentary VIP Suzuki parking for the day – if they ride to the Homecoming on their Suzuki motorcycle.

Hayabusa Homecoming activities will be at the Suzuki display in the NHRA midway from 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM EDT. Planned activities include:

Free grandstand entry for Saturday at the Four-Wide Nationals to the first 200 Suzuki motorcycle riders who register online.
Free VIP Suzuki motorcycle parking near the NHRA Midway (Suzuki owners only.)
The first 200 Suzuki Hayabusa riders to register will also receive an exclusive Hayabusa 25th Anniversary gift pack commemorating the famed sportbike.
An appearance by the Moore Mafia’s Chris Moore, a renowned drag bike builder and YouTuber who will be running his custom Turbo Hayabusa on the epic zMAX Dragway track, showcasing the jaw-dropping performance of the Suzuki Hayabusa.
Exclusive Q&A Session and fan interaction with Chris Moore and the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki Pro Stock Motorcycle team members:
- Current NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion Gaige Herrera.
- Four-time Pro Stock Motorcycle NHRA World Champion Vance & Hines Crew Chief Eddie Krawiecz.
- Six-time Pro Stock Motorcycle NHRA World Champion Vance & Hines Crew Chief Andrew Hines.
- RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki rookie phenom and XDA/NHDRO/SEMDRA/ManCup title holder Richard Gadson
Vance & Hines Hayabusa and Chris Moore’s custom 25th Anniversary Suzuki Hayabusa drag bike on hand at the Suzuki display.
Attendees can have their photo taken on a real Vance & Hines Pro Stock Hayabusa.
NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle class autograph session with Suzuki racers.
See all the latest Suzuki models on display, get Suzuki swag, and more.

Hayabusa Homecoming attendees will experience not only world-class Hayabusa NHRA drag racing competing on the incredible four-wide zMAX Dragway track, they will also celebrate the Hayabusa’s redefinition of motorcycle performance since 1999.

Suzuki motorcycle owners may pre-register for Hayabusa Homecoming by scanning the following QR code:

Watch for more information and updates at SuzukiCycles.com or follow Suzuki’s social channels @SuzukiCycles. April 27th approaches as quickly as the Hayabusa so do not miss out on the Hayabusa Homecoming in Concord, NC. It will be a great day for all Hayabusa and Suzuki enthusiasts!

Attendance for this exclusive celebration is extremely limited and is free to Suzuki motorcycle and Suzuki Hayabusa owners. Hayabusa Homecoming registrants will also receive access to exclusive Suzuki NHRA general admission ticket pricing to purchase additional Four-Wide Nationals tickets directly from the NHRA.

For the latest Suzuki team news, race reports, and information visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/Drag-Racing.

For more information on Vance & Hines Motorsports visit their new website at v anceandhinesmotorsports.com .

For all the latest on the Moore Mafia, click to mooremafia.com.

Click Here for More Information on Hayabusa Homecoming

Oxley Bom Podcast: Hanging With Jorge

David Swarts

-

March 28, 2024

0

Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.

This podcast is “Hanging With Jorge.”

The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

He grew up near turn 1. When it comes to raw top speed, he holds the record. Last year, he finished second in the championship. And yeah, he can hang like it’s nobody’s business.
This week, Mat gets out his taperecorder as he goes to have a little chat with Jorge Martín about tattoos, girlfriends, Conor McGregor and motorbikes. What are his expectations for the upcoming season? And what do Peter and Mat think about his chances?

Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club, who wrote our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!

California Roadrace Association: Prince Wins At Buttonwillow

David Swarts

-

March 27, 2024

0

California Roadrace Association: Prince Wins At Buttonwillow

Prince Takes Dominant Win In California Roadrace Association Gold Cup At Buttonwillow

[Buttonwillow, CA] California Roadrace Association (CRA) kicked off Round 2 of the 2024 season at Buttonwillow Raceway Park March 23-24. In spite of a daunting weather forecast, racers came from all over Northern and Southern California and various other states, which made for healthy grids.

Bryce Prince continued his impressive form at the beginning of the California Roadrace Association’s 2024 season, backing up his Pacific Utility Gold Cup win at the season-opening Willow Springs round with another clear win at Buttonwillow Raceway Park.

On his BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R1, Prince turned a best lap of 1:45.567 enroute to an 11-second win over Deion Campbell, also mounted on a Yamaha YZF-R1. Ben Hodges was six seconds back on his YZF-R1 in third, but was just ahead of Jason Rodriguez, who was the only rider other than Prince in the 1:45 range.

On a blustery, rainy weekend with an occasional hailstorm, Prince also won the Ryder Gear 1000 Supersport race on Saturday, again ahead of Campbell, with Rodriguez just edging Hodges this time for the final podium spot. Despite the chaotic weather, organizers were able to complete the full schedule of races.

Anibal Arias won the Classic Cabinets 1000 Superbike race on Sunday over Joel Ohman, and Arias took the Ryder Gear 1000 Supersport win as well, this time over Armando Castillo. Arias had started the weekend with a win in the 61 DTC/Pirelli 1000 GT race on Saturday, ahead of Nayden Balladares and Ohman.

“It was great to see all those smiling faces for round two,” said CRA Co-Founder Lyle Geoff Brown. “It is very rewarding to witness the growth of CRA through the progression and success of our racers.”

CRA’s mentorship program “Racer 411” continues to welcome new racers to the paddock with pit and race prep assistance. Because CRA missed two rounds in 2023 due to the new track at Buttonwillow not being completed, the first two rounds held in 2024 counted toward both the 2023 season and the 2024 season. This round wrapped up the 2023 season and 2023 Class Champions can be found here: 2023 CRA Championship

CRA now heads to The Podium Club at Attesa for Round 3 of the 2024 race season. Visit www.race-cra.com for more information.

The California Roadrace Association would like to thank all its sponsors for their support. Pacific Utility Installation is the title sponsor of the CRA, with Better Call Sy and Classic Cabinets presenting sponsors of the 2024 season. CRA would like to thank VnM Sport, Lieto Factory, Ryder Gear, Compact Octane, Eyes Up Motorsports/Dunlop, 61 DTC/Pirelli, Roadrace City/Bridgestone, Fun Track Dayz, Let’s Ride Track Days, New Century Motorcycles, Moto4Life, Alpinestars, Capit Performance, Racer’s Edge, Tip In Racing, Remix Racing, The Heights Restaurant Bar & Grill, Cinepixel Productions, Kern County Motorsports, and Racer 411.

More About The Laguna Seca Noise Lawsuit Settlement

David Swarts

-

March 27, 2024

0

More About The Laguna Seca Noise Lawsuit Settlement

Details of the settlement in the lawsuit brought by Highway 68 Coalition against the County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca have been revealed.

In 2023, the County of Monterey entered into a long-term Concession Agreement with local non-profit Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) for the operation of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which includes WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Under the terms of the deal, FLS will take over the commercial dealings for the track for a period as long as 50 years while bearing the cost of maintaining the property and making capital improvements and sharing a portion of its revenues with the County of Monterey. A&D Narigi, meanwhile, will continue to manage and operate the track under the stewardship of FLS.

But in December 2023, the Highway 68 Coalition, (a longstanding group of local residents and landowners), sued the County of Monterey and FLS claiming the County was wrong to approve the new Concession Agreement because, among other things, a state-mandated environmental study to consider the impact of noise produced by increasing activity at the racetrack had not been carried out.

Highway 68 Coalition asked the court to vacate the new Concession Agreement and order the County of Monterey and FLS to “cease and desist” from allowing activity at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to produce noise levels “in excess of the level of use and noise that existed at the time…when the applicable zoning was established” in 1985.

A hearing on the case was scheduled to be held June 20, 2024, but both parties to the litigation have agreed to a settlement that will end the lawsuit and allow operations to continue at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

In the settlement, FLS agrees that within 30 days of taking operational control of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca it will contract a third-party “acoustical consultant” to record ambient noise levels in the area around the track during periods of inactivity, during major motorsports events, and during track rental events and “identify feasible mitigation measures to reduce sound levels from the levels detected.” FLS also agrees to spend up to $2 million (including the cost of the noise study) to complete one or all of the proposed noise mitigation measures within five years. The County of Monterey also agreed to pay the legal costs of Highway 68 Coalition, which amounted to $75,000.

In return, Highway 68 Coalition agreed to file a dismissal of its lawsuit with the court.

FLS has not yet taken operational control of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, but will “soon,” FLS President Ross Merrill said during a press conference on Wednesday.

A link to a copy of the settlement document can be seen below.

Hwy 68 v County Settlement Agreement Executed

Classic Track Day Cancels March 30 Event At Willow Springs

David Swarts

-

March 27, 2024

0

Classic Track Day Cancels March 30 Event At Willow Springs

Yesterday’s weather forecast seemed promising with a high temp predicted to be above 60 degrees. But today the prediction is max of 50 degrees. Add the wind & 100% chance of rain and the track becomes a very unsafe place for motorcycles wanting to go fast.

Because of those safety concerns, I am cancelling this weekend’s track day.

But fret not. I am moving the track day to April 13th, the weekend of the Willow Springs Grand Prix. This will cut the racing from two days to one, but we all need some practice and I am excited to accommodate our new racer’s school. And all of you procrastinators now have another two weeks to get their race bikes in order! Gotta look on the bright side somehow.

If you registered for March 30 but cannot make the April 13 date, please cancel your registration on MotorsportReg and I will refund your entry fee.

I apologize to any of you who were as excited about this weekend as I, and I appreciate all of your support of Classic Track Day!

Brady Walker

Classic Track Day

Video: Canadian Superbike Champ Ben Young Visits “Gas On Bike Up” Podcast

David Swarts

-

March 27, 2024

0

Video: Canadian Superbike Champ Ben Young Visits “Gas On Bike Up” Podcast

This in-depth interview was shot with multi time Canadian National Superbike Champion Ben Young at Daytona International Speedway. We cover a wide range of topics including advice for aspiring young riders, comparing old school and modern MotoGP riding techniques, mastering bumpy tracks, suspension and electronics adjustments on modern superbikes and much more.

@gasonbikeup-motorcycles produces videos to show how the same techniques that are used by MotoGP and World Superbike riders can translate to all riders, track or street. If you’re interested in road racing, track days, or simply how to get the most out of your sport bike this video is for you! You’ll learn from Eric Wood, the head coach for the oldest motorcycle track training school in the United States. In this video, we discuss a common problem that affects both top racers and street riders when they need to stop the bike as quickly as they can. The solutions to better braking may surprise you!

Timecodes

0:00 Introduction

0:47 The career path of a superbike champion

2:07 Insights for young racers

3:54 Navigating the role of parents as riders transition from privateer to factory efforts

6:48 Racing in Canada versus in the USA – insights

9:14 How to adjust your motorcycle for bumpy tracks

13:17 How to adjust your riding for bumpy tracks

16:28 Modern electronics and chassis setup programs

17:49 Blending old school riding techniques with modern motorcycles

21:56 Feeling out pavement

24:20 Big bikes versus small bike track strategies

28:45 Torque maps and traction control

33:32 The pros and cons of modern riding techniques

36:03 Using the rear brake

38:17 Training at the limit on the dirt to help tour road racing craft 43:50 Daytona 200

45:50 Describing the feeling of the high banks at Daytona

47:40 Daytona 200 predictions and wrap up

Please subscribe and leave us comments – we’d love to hear what you like about this video and what else you’d like to see!

Have feedback or suggestions? We’d love to hear from you! Check out our website at https://gasonbikeup.com or email us at [email protected].

Our partner companies:

https://woodcraft-cfm.com/

https://penguinracing.com/

@PenguinRacingSchool1 @woodcrafttechnologies8836

#motorcycleriding #motorcycleracing #motorcycletraining

Pirelli Named Series Partner For 2024 FIM Mini Cup USA Series

David Swarts

-

March 27, 2024

0

Pirelli Named Series Partner for 2024 FIM Mini Cup USA Series

Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike Range and the FIM Mini Cup USA Series Will Serve as the Pathway to the FIM MiniGP World Series

ATLANTA (March 27, 2024) – Pirelli, the global leader in high-performance tire manufacturing, is thrilled to announce its partnership with the 2024 FIM Mini Cup USA series, underscoring its commitment to supporting grassroots motorsports and nurturing the next generation of racing talent.

The FIM Mini Cup USA series will feature thrilling competition in the Ohvale 160 and Ohvale 190 classes. These classes will serve as qualifiers for aspiring riders aiming to secure a coveted spot in the prestigious FIM MiniGP World Series, which will take place later this year in Valencia, Spain.

As part of its partnership, Pirelli will supply its renowned 10- and 12-inch DIABLO Superbike slick range as the spec tire for both classes, ensuring all competitors have access to world-class tire technology that prepares them for the challenges of the international racing stage.

The FIM Mini Cup USA series consists of five rounds, with three rounds running in conjunction with the ASRA Championship rounds:

1. Summit Point: May 25-26

2. Virginia International Raceway: June 22-23

3. Carolina Motorsports Park: July 20-21

4. Pittsburgh International Race Complex: August 17-18

5. Virginia International Raceway: September 7-8

“Pirelli is honored to partner with the 2024 FIM Mini Cup USA series, further reinforcing our commitment to fostering racing talent at every level,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “We believe in providing racers with the best tools and technology to succeed, and our involvement in this series underscores our dedication to supporting the growth and development of motorsports.”

In addition to its partnership with the FIM Mini Cup USA series, Pirelli recently became the exclusive tire supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 World Championship classes in 2024. The partnership has already yielded remarkable results, with riders setting lap records in both pre-season testing and the opening rounds of the 2024 season.

The FIM Mini Cup USA series serves as an essential stepping stone for American riders aspiring to compete in the Moto2 and Moto3 World Championships, offering invaluable experience and exposure on the path to international success.

For more information about Pirelli and the DIABLO Superbike range, please visit Pirelli.com.

DIABLO™ is a registered trademark of Pirelli Tyre S.p.A

How To Identify Real Vanson Leathers

March 28, 2024

A closeup of the label and zipper of a Vanson leather jacket. Photo courtesy Vanson Leathers.

Vanson has been producing jackets, riding/racing suits, and other leather goods at its facility in the Boston, Massachusetts, area since 1974.

While the brand has been well known to motorcycle racers and riders for years, Vanson has more recently caught the attention of the fashion world and with that the attention of counterfeiters.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to identify real Vanson goods from cheap counterfeit fakes.

According to Vanson:

Make sure the label matches the one pictured here.

This label should say “Fall River MASS,” but older Vanson products will say “Boston MASS.”

The pull tab on the zipper has a big V and says “Vanson USA.”

A unit number (like the one seen on the leather tag on the zipper in the photo) will be embossed on the item, including gloves and bags.

The top-quality workmanship on the item should be evident, like straight lines of stitching.

And as anyone who has worn Vanson leathers know, they are made from robust pieces of leather that can also be described as heavy.

And if there’s still any doubt, potential buyers of Vanson leathers can also contact the company at (508) 678-2000, www.vansonleathers.com, and all social media.

Yamaha Opens Electric Drive Unit Assembly Line In France

March 28, 2024

Drive units for electric bicycles going down the new assembly line at Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe in France. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe. — Electric drive units going down the new assembly line at Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Europe in France. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.