Racer, Instructor, U.S. Army Veteran Steve Broadstreet, R.I.P.

David Swarts

-

June 29, 2023

Racer, Instructor, U.S. Army Veteran Steve Broadstreet, R.I.P.

Former racer, riding instructor, and U.S. Army veteran Steve Broadstreet died June 28 at the VCU Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. He was 60.

“This is probably one of the hardest things I will have to say,” Broadstreet’s wife Celeste posted today on social media. “Yesterday morning surrounded by myself and his boys, Steve passed away after a brief illness he, for this first time, couldn’t beat. Our hearts are broken. He was bigger than life and will be tremendously missed. We appreciate all the love and support that has been given. We will reach out with further details regarding a celebration of life for him. Ride fast, and do the biggest of wheelies Triple X. We love you!”

Steve Broadstreet with his granddaughter Harper. Photo courtesy Broadstreet family.

In addition to road racing and supermoto racing, Broadstreet worked as a riding instructor for the Cornerspeed, Cornerspin, and the Team Hammer Advanced Riding School.

Steve Broadstreet (45), as seen in 2012 when he won the WERA Sportsman Heavyweight Senior Superbike Novice Championship in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic region. Photo courtesy Broadstreet family. — Steve Broadstreet (45) won the WERA Sportsman Heavyweight Senior Superbike Novice Championship in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic region. Photo courtesy Broadstreet family.

Broadstreet is survived by his wife of 39 years Celeste, sons Brian Broadstreet and Darren Broadstreet, daughter-in-law Abby Broadstreet, and granddaughter Harper Broadstreet.

We will update this post with more information as it becomes available.

Godspeed, Steve.

WorldSBK: Rea “Full Of Optimism” Ahead Of Donington Round

David Swarts

-

June 29, 2023

0

WorldSBK: Rea “Full Of Optimism” Ahead Of Donington Round

Outspoken ahead of Donington Park

WorldSBK’s media day in the United Kingdom meant there’s no such thing of enjoying silence, and we just can’t get enough of straight-talking wagging tongues ahead of action igniting

The 2023 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship’s media day on Thursday at the Donington Park circuit in England, UK, was a hive of activity. Situated in the rolling hills of the English countryside and a stone’s throw from the historic city of Nottingham, it’s back to WorldSBK’s roots, as it was the first track we ever visited in 1988. However, 35 years later, strong declarations continue off-track as well as on it. From this part of England, Robin Hood – as legend has it – was the highly skilled archer and swordsman, but who will hit the target of their battles this weekend?

Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK): “I’m full of optimism… we were able to understand new items”

“I’m full of optimism; we’ve had good results at Donington Park in the past and coming here after a test last week at Aragon, where we were able to understand some new items and keep working on our pace in the hotter conditions. I’m looking forward to the weekend, they’ve resurfaced the circuit which could throw some curveballs. It sounds like the grip level is very high but the surface is also very abrasive, but we’ll work like normal on Friday. We’ve always been able to get away with the softer tyre here at Donington Park with the SCQ and SCX but we need to understand tyre choice too. It’ll be a busy day tomorrow. The test was split in two parts; we tried some new electronics items that we can use straight away and other items that we might not see but can be used by KMC to develop in the future. Alex has been an amazing teammate, we’ve battled on track very hard – recently at Mandalika – and he always gives 110%. He’s a great team player and the atmosphere is good. For me, it was normal that he continues and it’s nice now it is official.”

Scott Redding (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “Time is running out on what I will do”

“Last year, Donington Park was good for me and in the past, it’s been a great place to come. I always enjoy coming here in front of the home fans. I’d like to think we can be better here, but the new track surface has a play in it. We need to put our feet back on the ground and understand where we are, where we’re going and what we’re doing. If the circuit has the history it had, it should favour us, which would be nice. But this year, the level has stepped up a little bit and we’ve struggled to make that next little step. Here’s a bit of a reset for us, we can start with a fresh feeling.

“With 2024, there’s no news for what’s going on, I just want to focus on what I’m doing this weekend. We’ll see after here a bit more what’s going on, but time is running out on what I will do. You have to keep waiting for the moment. My priority is to continue in World Superbike but I’m looking in every area and at every option, like a lot of riders do, whether that’s here or somewhere else. I would like to continue with BMW, that is more of a priority that I have. I feel like we can make it happen but it’s a hard time for me to be thinking about what the potential is. I need to believe in the project like they’ve believed in me, and I just think that this weekend, having a reset and regroup and to understand a bit more, will help me make some decisions for the future.”

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati): “From my first time here 20 years ago, I loved it”

“We arrive at Donington Park and maybe it’s been a difficult race for us in the past. Every year is different, and anything can happen. I’m looking forward to this weekend. The track has been resurfaced; the layout is amazing; it’s one of the best tracks in the world. From my first time here 20 years ago, I loved it. It’s a track that with Ducati, I’ve never enjoyed as others, I look forward to trying to have a good feeling that we had in the first rounds of the season. The test was two days with a lot of fun on the bike. I had really good feedback and I could adapt very quickly to a MotoGP™ style with the engine, the power, the brakes, the tyres and the frames; they’re very different to WorldSBK. The feeling with bike was really good. At the moment, there is no plan for the future. I’ve requested that Ducati change some items on the bike specifically for my ergonomics because I felt the bike was a bit big for me. I don’t know if Ducati made this change, but maybe we can re-test and try again to see If I can feel even better.”

Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK): “I’m really happy to continue with Kawasaki… there’s a lot of good things coming”

“I’m really happy to continue with Kawasaki into 2024. This season has not been as good as we wanted. Kawasaki have set themselves some pretty high standards in WorldSBK. We’ve had some big competition from the other teams in the last couple of years. We’re in the process now of trying to get back there. I was really happy with the offer from Kawasaki for one more year and it’s an easy decision to make. Although we’re not winning races, and I’ve made some mistakes this year, I’m close to Jonny and I feel like I’m riding very well and enjoying it. I’m working well with the team. It’s never 100% what it seems from the outside. There’s a lot of good things coming; we know it’s not going to be easy to turn this season around too much but it’s my home round this weekend and a perfect place to announce next year and try to challenge for the podium.”

Iker Lecuona (Team HRC): “My manager has spoken with a few teams”

“Honestly, I know my manager has spoken with a few teams or people. I don’t know anything. My manager’s coming here again to keep talking. For now, nothing is closed and I cannot say anything. I’d like to say it’ll be a bit better than last year, but the reality is we are in the same position. They resurfaced the track. I heard something that the new asphalt wears the tyres more and we have a lot of problems with this, so we need to check how we feel on the bike and how it affects tyre life.”

Bradley Ray (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team): “We’ve been making big progress… I’m hoping we can make a real big step”

“I am super excited and looking forward to coming to Donington Park. We’ve been working in a good way with the Motoxracing team. We’ve been making some big progress so, I’m hoping, this weekend, we can make a real big step forward. I enjoy Donington and I’ve had some success here in BSB. I’ve got a lot to learn and to prove to Motoxracing and Yamaha. I want to go about my business this weekend, do the best job I can at my home round, for the fans and my family and friends that are coming. Hopefully, we can use this weekend as a steppingstone and use it to carry me on for the rest of the season.”

Tom Sykes (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “In a dream scenario, the idea would be to add to the podiums.

“I’m always excited to go racing. Coming here to Donington, it helps a little bit because I’ve had some success here in the past. It’s a home round, we’ve had some fantastic weather and hopefully if that continues, we’ll be in for a great weekend. The circuit’s been resurfaced so it’ll be interesting to see the lap times. My target is to add to the success. That would be plan A. In a dream scenario, the idea would be to add to the podiums. That’s the target and we’ll work towards it. The lap times are certainly much faster. We’ve all been having a little prediction for the WorldSBK riders and if we’re getting around in the prediction times, it’s going to be fast!”

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023 Announced

David Swarts

-

June 29, 2023

0

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Announced

Five to be inducted on Sept. 15 during the AMA’s Hall of Fame Days event in Pickerington, Ohio

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Thousands of votes have been tallied, and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is proud to announce the five inductees to be honored during the 2023 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Sept. 15 in Pickerington, Ohio.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 is Rita Coombs, Ryan Dungey, Barry Hawk, Grant Langston and Travis Pastrana.

“The Class of 2023 includes individuals who have excelled in many different areas of motorcycling,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “Some are champions in many of our premier racing disciplines — motocross, AMA Supercross, and Grand National Cross Country — while others have been significant ambassadors for the sport, creating prestigious events and series that have introduced motorcycling to thousands. We are honored to recognize these motorcycling greats this Sept. 15 at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

The induction ceremony will headline the AMA’s Hall of Fame Days, which takes place Sept. 14-17. The ceremony will take place at the nearby Violet Township Event Center on Friday evening, followed by a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact AMA Business Development Manager Michael Kula at (949) 466-7833 or [email protected].

Hall of Fame inductees are selected from eight areas of influence: Ambassadors/Industry, Design/Engineering, Dirt Track, Leadership/Motorcycle Rights, Motocross/Supercross, Off-Road, Road Racing and Specialty Competition.

RITA COOMBS

Along with Paul Schlegel and her husband, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Dave Coombs, Rita Coombs — one of the owners of MX Sports — was responsible for the creation of the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s in 1982. The event at Loretta’s has grown into the most prestigious and impactful amateur motocross event in the world over the last four decades. Coombs was also instrumental in creating the AMA Grand National Cross Country series as well as the AMA National Hare Scrambles championship.

RYAN DUNGEY

From 2007 to 2017, Ryan Dungey forged great success in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross, tallying four 450SX and three 450MX titles. Dungey is one of only seven riders to have more than 30 450SX wins. His dominant run stateside was paired with three Motocross of Nations titles in 2009, 2010 and 2011. Dungey also won back-to-back ESPY Awards for Best Athlete in Men’s Action Sports (2015, 2016).

BARRY HAWK

With 98 national championship event wins, Barry Hawk cemented himself as one of the most successful off-road riders ever. Showing his versatility, he stands alone as the only rider to ever win AMA GNCC national titles on both an ATV and a motorcycle. Retiring from racing in 2010 with eight AMA GNCC national championships, Hawk transitioned to manager of the Coastal Racing GasGas Factory Racing team, where he has helped propel riders to numerous wins and championships.

GRANT LANGSTON

Grant Langston is the only rider to win a World Motocross Championship, an AMA Motocross Championship and both AMA Supercross Regional Championships — East and West — in the 125/250cc classification. Langston added both an AMA Supermoto title and an AMA 450cc Motocross title to his resume before retiring, at which point he launched two successful careers as a multi-line dealership owner and a race commentator for NBC Sports.

TRAVIS PASTRANA

A racer turned daredevil, Travis Pastrana used motorcycling to build himself into a mainstream star. At the competition level, Pastrana won the 2000 AMA 125cc National Motocross Championship, becoming the youngest rider (16 years, 10 months, 26 days) to win an AMA Pro Motocross title. He also added a 125cc East AMA Supercross Championship and 17 total medals at the X Games to his resume. The lead personality behind the Nitro Circus brand, which spans a reality TV show, movie, live performance and competitions, Pastrana has built a tremendous amount of notoriety and served as an inspiration to many across the world.

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.

WorldSBK: Lowes Re-Signs With Kawasaki For 2024

David Swarts

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June 29, 2023

0

WorldSBK: Lowes Re-Signs With Kawasaki For 2024

Lowes Continues His Kawasaki Journey In 2024

Popular Kawasaki Racing Team rider Alex Lowes will remain an official Kawasaki FIM Superbike World Championship competitor next season, having re-signed with KRT shortly before his home round at Donington Park.

Lowes has been a full-time WorldSBK rider since 2014, one year after winning the British Superbike Championship. At the start of his national level career in his native UK, during the 2005 season, Alex rode 125GP machines, then enjoyed a season in British Supersport before eventually stepping up to a bigger stage near the end of 2008.

He scored an instant podium in the intensely competitive European Superstock 600 championship with the O Six Kawasaki team, before graduating to the Stock 1000 championship in 2009. Alex then moved back to the UK scene for the 2010 season, riding a variety of machinery. Building pace and confidence after entering the Superbike class in 2011, Alex also rode as a wild card in four WorldSBK races that season. Lowes rose to the status of British Superbike champion in 2013, winning a close fight with Shane Byrne.

He made the transition to WorldSBK at good pace, securing two podiums and two fastest laps in his first season. A change of manufacturer inside WorldSBK saw him prove his capabilities as he grew in experience. His first race win came at Brno in the Czech Republic, in 2018. Lowes was also an important part of the riding line-ups that won the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hours race for three years in succession between 2016-2018.

Moving to KRT alongside the WorldSBK racing phenomenon that is Jonathan Rea in 2020, Alex rocked the whole WorldSBK world by winning the final race of his first competitive Kawasaki weekend, at Phillip Island in Australia – shortly before the global pandemic arrived to change the racing landscape for all. Alex has continued to score podiums and overcome periods of injury, making his re-signing with KRT for 2024 a popular and positive decision.

Lowes is now able to focus on the second half of the 2023 WorldSBK season safe in the knowledge that his immediate future is not only secure but continues inside the Kawasaki family he has been an integral part of.

Alex Lowes, stated: “I’m super excited to continue my relationship with Kawasaki into the 2024 WorldSBK season. My motivation to achieve the best results possible on the Ninja ZX-10RR has never been stronger. The number one goal now is to focus on the remainder of the current season, starting with my home race weekend at Donington. It is really nice to have confirmation that I will be racing with Kawasaki again agreed in time for my home round. I will enjoy it all the more because of that. I want to offer a big thank you to everyone at KMC, KME and all the crew at KRT for their great support in the past and their continuing belief in me. I look forward to working alongside them again next season.”

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “We are happy to keep Alex for the 2024 project and this gives us the stability we need in the current situation. The question was not if KRT was willing to continue with Alex. The question was if Alex was willing to continue with KRT, knowing the reality of the rules situation and our current performance capacity. We cannot offer a championship winning package if the rules don’t change. All the fans that understand a bit about racing can see this, and the only way to extract the maximum from our package is to use the experience and the brave riding of our riders. Alex has the capacity to reach the required speed to try and work within that small window we have to perform at our best. Nobody in the world can doubt that Alex is always giving his best, and we have big respect for the effort he puts into it. We don’t have time to teach young riders how to ride the bike, as some people in the paddock suggested we do. Now is the time to continue working hard and with a stable base, to take out the variables and focus on what we really know to improve our bike and make a real ‘team job.’ Alex and Johnny are competitors with each other but they are very professional and work well together. They have respect for each other and know how to extract 110% from our bike to make the best show possible. We have a lot of jobs to do now, so let’s create calm in the project by choosing the two best riders, then we can focus on working as hard and as well as possible.”

Steve Guttridge, Race Planning Manager, Kawasaki Motors Europe stated: “This is great news for Alex and for Kawasaki. We are delighted he is continuing to help develop the Ninja ZX-10RR race package and, alongside Johhny and the KRT family, this signifies an exciting next step for everyone involved. Alex is a proven race winner on the Ninja and we are as keen as he is to see him on the podium across the remainder of 2023 and across 2024. I join the fans globally in wishing him good fortune in this next phase of his career.”

Pirelli To Become The Exclusive Tire Supplier For Moto2, Moto3 & More

David Swarts

-

June 29, 2023

0

Pirelli To Become The Exclusive Tire Supplier For Moto2, Moto3 & More

Pirelli to become exclusive tyre supplier to Moto2™ and Moto3™

A new agreement is being finalised that will see the iconic Italian brand join the MotoGP™ paddock and become an official supplier across the Road to MotoGP™ from 2024 to 2026

Thursday, 29 June 2023

Pirelli will become the official, exclusive tyre supplier to the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes from 2024 to 2026 inclusive. This new three-year agreement, currently being finalised, will see the Italian tyre marque become an integral part of the lightweight and intermediate classes of Grand Prix racing.

Pirelli already has a long legacy as the sole supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and now extends their two-wheeled portfolio to include Moto2™ and Moto3™, the strongest feeder classes in global motorsport. Pirelli will supply their DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres to both classes, reflecting a choice in line with Pirelli’s philosophy ‘We sell what we race, we race what we sell’.

Thanks to this agreement, Moto2™ and Moto3™ will become an important driver for the further enhancement of the Pirelli brand in terms of both commercial growth and technological development. The MotoGP™ paddock offers the best racing laboratory on two wheels, ensuring the sport continues to drive innovation in safety, performance and sustainability that reaches real customers on the street.

The deal also extends across the Road to MotoGP™ as Pirelli become the official and sole tyre supplier for all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship, the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, the Northern Talent Cup and the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, joining their established commitment to the FIM MiniGP World Series. Unrivalled in motorsport, the Road to MotoGP™ is a global talent promotion initiative opening doors and widening access to motorcycle racing across the world.

Further details on the supply and type of tyres that will be used will be disclosed in due course.

Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli: “We are proud that Dorna has chosen us to become the new Moto2 and Moto3 supplier for the next three seasons. This is further recognition of our authority in motorsport and also a clear sign of appreciation for the work we have been carrying out in the Superbike World Championship for 20 years. With this new supply agreement, we will accompany the young hopefuls of motorcycling to the top competitions, WorldSBK and MotoGP. And, faithful to the philosophy that has distinguished us for years, we will do so by continuing to use standard products on sale in the market and available for purchase to all motorcyclists.”

Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer, Dorna Sports: “We’re super happy to welcome Pirelli to the paddock as the sole tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3, and across the Road to MotoGP. These Championships are the best example in motorsport of strong feeder classes that also stand alone as high-level competitions, in terms of both their sporting and commercial value. So we’re very happy to have seen such a high level of interest from Pirelli and to reach this agreement. Welcoming a new partner also underlines our sport’s strong connections and relationships with the industry, and we’re very much looking forward to working with Pirelli across a number of areas, including performance, road-relevance and, of course, sustainability.”

More, from another press release issued by Dorna:

Pirelli to become exclusive tyre supplier for Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup

A new agreement is being finalised that will see the iconic Italian brand become an official supplier across the Road to MotoGP™

Thursday, 29 June 2023

Pirelli will become the official, exclusive tyre supplier to the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup from 2024 to 2026 inclusive. A new three-year agreement, currently being finalised, will see the Italian tyre marque become an integral part of the lightweight and intermediate classes of Grand Prix racing, as well as across the Road to MotoGP™.

Pirelli already has a long legacy as the sole supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and now extends their two-wheeled portfolio to include Moto2™ and Moto3™, the strongest feeder classes in global motorsport, and the Road to MotoGP™, an unrivalled talent promotion initiative increasing access to motorcycle racing across the globe.

The deal extends across the Road to MotoGP™ as Pirelli also become the official and sole tyre supplier for the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship, the Northern Talent Cup and the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, joining their established commitment to the FIM MiniGP World Series. Unrivalled in motorsport, the Road to MotoGP™ is a global talent promotion initiative opening doors and widening access to motorcycle racing across the world.

Thanks to this agreement, these competitions will become an important driver for the further enhancement of the Pirelli brand in terms of both commercial growth and technological development. The MotoGP™ paddock offers the best racing laboratory on two wheels, ensuring the sport continues to drive innovation in safety, performance and sustainability that reaches real customers on the street.

Pirelli will supply their DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres, reflecting a choice in line with Pirelli’s philosophy ‘We sell what we race, we race what we sell’.

Further details on the supply and type of tyres that will be used will be disclosed in due course.

Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli: “We are proud that Dorna has chosen us to become the new Moto2 and Moto3 supplier for the next three seasons. This is further recognition of our authority in motorsport and also a clear sign of appreciation for the work we have been carrying out in the Superbike World Championship for 20 years. With this new supply agreement, we will accompany the young hopefuls of motorcycling to the top competitions, WorldSBK and MotoGP. And, faithful to the philosophy that has distinguished us for years, we will do so by continuing to use standard products on sale in the market and available for purchase to all motorcyclists.”

Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer, Dorna Sports: “We’re super happy to welcome Pirelli to the paddock as the sole tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3, and across the Road to MotoGP. These Championships are the best example in motorsport of strong feeder classes that also stand alone as high-level competitions, in terms of both their sporting and commercial value. So we’re very happy to have seen such a high level of interest from Pirelli and to reach this agreement. Welcoming a new partner also underlines our sport’s strong connections and relationships with the industry, and we’re very much looking forward to working with Pirelli across a number of areas, including performance, road-relevance and, of course, sustainability.”

More, from another press release issued by Dorna:

Pirelli to become exclusive tyre supplier for Northern Talent Cup

A new agreement is being finalised that will see the iconic Italian brand become an official supplier across the Road to MotoGP™

Pirelli will become the official, exclusive tyre supplier to the Northern Talent Cup from 2024 to 2026 inclusive. A new three-year agreement, currently being finalised, will see the Italian tyre marque become an integral part of the lightweight and intermediate classes of Grand Prix racing, as well as across the Road to MotoGP™.

Pirelli already has a long legacy as the sole supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and now extends their two-wheeled portfolio to include Moto2™ and Moto3™, the strongest feeder classes in global motorsport, and the Road to MotoGP™, an unrivalled talent promotion initiative increasing access to motorcycle racing across the globe.

The deal extends across the Road to MotoGP™ as Pirelli become the official and sole tyre supplier for the Northern Talent Cup, all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship, the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup and the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, joining their established commitment to the FIM MiniGP World Series. Unrivalled in motorsport, the Road to MotoGP™ is a global talent promotion initiative opening doors and widening access to motorcycle racing across the world.

Thanks to this agreement, these competitions will become an important driver for the further enhancement of the Pirelli brand in terms of both commercial growth and technological development. The MotoGP™ paddock offers the best racing laboratory on two wheels, ensuring the sport continues to drive innovation in safety, performance and sustainability that reaches real customers on the street.

Pirelli will supply their DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres, reflecting a choice in line with Pirelli’s philosophy ‘We sell what we race, we race what we sell’.

Further details on the supply and type of tyres that will be used will be disclosed in due course

Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli: “We are proud that Dorna has chosen us to become the new Moto2 and Moto3 supplier for the next three seasons. This is further recognition of our authority in motorsport and also a clear sign of appreciation for the work we have been carrying out in the Superbike World Championship for 20 years. With this new supply agreement, we will accompany the young hopefuls of motorcycling to the top competitions, WorldSBK and MotoGP. And, faithful to the philosophy that has distinguished us for years, we will do so by continuing to use standard products on sale in the market and available for purchase to all motorcyclists.”

Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer, Dorna Sports: “We’re super happy to welcome Pirelli to the paddock as the sole tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3, and across the Road to MotoGP. These Championships are the best example in motorsport of strong feeder classes that also stand alone as high-level competitions, in terms of both their sporting and commercial value. So we’re very happy to have seen such a high level of interest from Pirelli and to reach this agreement. Welcoming a new partner also underlines our sport’s strong connections and relationships with the industry, and we’re very much looking forward to working with Pirelli across a number of areas, including performance, road-relevance and, of course, sustainability.”

More, from another press release issued by Dorna:

Pirelli to become exclusive tyre supplier for the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship

A new agreement is being finalised that will see the iconic Italian brand become an official supplier across the Road to MotoGP™, including JuniorGP™

Pirelli will become the official, exclusive tyre supplier to the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship from 2024 to 2026 inclusive. A new three-year agreement, currently being finalised, will see the Italian tyre marque become an integral part of the lightweight and intermediate classes of Grand Prix racing, as well as the Road to MotoGP™ – including all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship.

Pirelli already has a long legacy as the sole supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and now extends their two-wheeled portfolio to include Moto2™ and Moto3™, the strongest feeder classes in global motorsport, and the Road to MotoGP™, an unrivalled talent promotion initiative increasing access to motorcycle racing across the globe.

The deal extends across the Road to MotoGP™ as Pirelli become the official and sole tyre supplier for all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship, the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, the Northern Talent Cup and the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, joining their established commitment to the FIM MiniGP World Series. Unrivalled in motorsport, the Road to MotoGP™ is a global talent promotion initiative opening doors and widening access to motorcycle racing across the world.

Thanks to this agreement, these competitions will become an important driver for the further enhancement of the Pirelli brand in terms of both commercial growth and technological development. The MotoGP™ paddock offers the best racing laboratory on two wheels, ensuring the sport continues to drive innovation in safety, performance and sustainability that reaches real customers on the street.

Pirelli will supply their DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres, reflecting a choice in line with Pirelli’s philosophy ‘We sell what we race, we race what we sell’.

Further details on the supply and type of tyres that will be used will be disclosed in due course.

Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli: “We are proud that Dorna has chosen us to become the new Moto2 and Moto3 supplier for the next three seasons. This is further recognition of our authority in motorsport and also a clear sign of appreciation for the work we have been carrying out in the Superbike World Championship for 20 years. With this new supply agreement, we will accompany the young hopefuls of motorcycling to the top competitions, WorldSBK and MotoGP. And, faithful to the philosophy that has distinguished us for years, we will do so by continuing to use standard products on sale in the market and available for purchase to all motorcyclists.”

Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer, Dorna Sports: “We’re super happy to welcome Pirelli as the sole tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3, and across the Road to MotoGP. These Championships are the best example in motorsport of strong feeder classes that also stand alone as high-level competitions, in terms of both their sporting and commercial value. So we’re very happy to have seen such a high level of interest from Pirelli and to reach this agreement. Welcoming a new partner also underlines our sport’s strong connections and relationships with the industry, and we’re very much looking forward to working with Pirelli across a number of areas, including performance, road-relevance and, of course, sustainability.

“The Finetwork FIM JuniorGP World Championship has been creating champions for over 25 years and we’re excited to see the next chapter racing with Pirelli.”

AHRMA: Joyce Wins Both Vintage Cup Races At NJMP

David Swarts

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June 28, 2023

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AHRMA: Joyce Wins Both Vintage Cup Races At NJMP

Joyce Doubles Up on AHRMA Vintage Cup Wins at NJMP

(June 28, Knoxville, TN) The threat of rain didn’t dampen the spirit of vintage road racing in New Jersey or slow down double winner Tim Joyce.

Joyce dominated the ninth and tenth rounds of the 2023 American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) Vintage Cup which was part of the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Roadracing series held at New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) in Millville, NJ.

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. During the rounds at NJMP, nearly a dozen F750 bikes competed each day.

“I couldn’t be present for this event, but I was excited to see the live timing,” said Carl Anderson, AHRMA’s 2023 Chairman of the Board. “This Championship is still a tight race that will likely go down to the final rounds.”

On Saturday, Tim Joyce, riding an NYC Norton Seeley NRE, started from pole position and led flag to flag. Kevin Dinsmoor, on his 1967 CMR Seeley CB550, was second and showed he might be able to pressure Joyce on Sunday.

Tony Read, riding his newly refreshed 1973 Triumph Bonneville, was third. Mike Dixon, historically a Sportsman 750 racer, bumped up to the Formula class, taking fourth on his 1970 Yamaha XS.

The balance of the grid showed the diversity of the F750 class which has made it an entertaining season so far: Martin Morrison, raced a 1976 Honda CB550, Daniel May, and Brad Phillips were both on 1972 BMW R75s, Dan Sokolich was on a Yamaha RD 400, Walt Fulton, raced a 1972 Harley Davidson XR750 and Craig Charles, was aboard a 1974 Triumph Trident.

For Sunday’s race, and now leading the championship, Joyce opted to race his 1973 Triumph T-140. Dinsmoor chased Joyce’s tailpipes for four of the six laps, pushing both into the 1:39 lap times, fast on fifty-year-old technology. Unfortunately, Dinsmoor lost the front end in turn five of the penultimate lap, allowing Read to take second behind Joyce, who proved his old Triumph still had it. Dixon rounded out the podium. The rest of the grid finished in the following order: Phillips, May, Morrison, Fulton, Charles and Dinsmoor.

“We watched the weather coming into this weekend, knowing that rain is a great equalizer, but the track was dry for both Saturday and Sunday’s Vintage Cup races allowing the riders to push to 100%. Standing atop the NJMP control tower, I was able to watch the entire race and was so proud to see the breadth of machines and riders making it out to compete in AHRMA’s 2023 featured class,” said Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton. “I’m looking forward to the sunshine of California for rounds eleven and twelve at the AHRMA Classic MotoFest of Monterey at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Some fast west coast racers are certain to add to the action.”

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 Formula 750 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, June 24, 2023

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

2 – Kevin Dinsmoor, 1967 CMR Seeley CB550, Colchester, CT

3 – Tony Read, 1973 Triumph Bonneville, Charlotte, TN

4 – Michael Dixon, 1970 Yamaha XS, Wataga, IL

5 – Martin Morrison, 1976 Honda CB550, Newark, OH

6 – Daniel May, 1972 BMW R75/5, Wilmette, IL

7 – Brad Phillips, 1972 BMW R75, Roebuck, SC

8 – Dan Sokolich, 1977 Yamaha RD 400, Washington, MO

9 – Walt Fulton, 1972 Harley Davidson XR750, Montrose, CO

10 – Craig Charles, 1974 Triumph Trident, Abington, PA

Sunday, June 25, 2023

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

2 – Tony Read, 1973 Triumph Bonneville, Charlotte, TN

3 – Michael Dixon, 1970 Yamaha XS, Wataga, IL

4 – Brad Phillips, 1972 BMW R75, Roebuck, SC

5 – Daniel May, 1972 BMW R75/5, Wilmette, IL

6 – Martin Morrison, 1976 Honda CB550, Newark, OH

7 – Walt Fulton, 1972 Harley Davidson XR750, Montrose, CO

8 – Craig Charles, 1974 Triumph Trident, Abington, PA

9 – Kevin Dinsmoor, 1967 CMR Seeley CB550, Colchester, CT

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.

Case Named Executive Director Of Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

David Swarts

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June 28, 2023

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Case Named Executive Director Of Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Names Brian Case as Executive Director

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum announces that Brian Case has been named executive director of the Birmingham-based nonprofit.

Case joined Barber Companies in 2019 and established the Barber Advanced Design Center in 2021. Case served as the Barber Advanced Design Center’s director until his appointment to Executive Director of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum this June.

Before joining Barber, Case co-founded Motus Motorcycles in 2008 and served as design director and managing board member until 2018. Motus Motorcycles produced the MST and MSTR sport-touring motorcycles.

“Having designed motorcycles myself, the collection at Barber has been a great source of inspiration over the last 18 years. George Barber’s vision, and the museum’s mission, resonate with my lifelong passion for motorsports. This is why I am so honored to lead the team at Barber and expand its reach for future generations,” says Case.

While continuing the museum’s mission, Case will further the institution’s impact with a focus on the future of design.

“I’m excited to welcome Brian as executive director of this important collection. I’m particularly pleased with his work in the Barber Advanced Design Center. His creativity, drive and passion for motorsports make him the perfect person to bring the team together and lead us into the future,” says Founder George Barber.

Since its establishment, the Barber Advanced Design Center has been a beacon leading the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum into the future. This high-tech workspace for industrial design exploration includes laser scanning and 3D printing machines, a multimedia hub allowing designers worldwide to collaborate, and an awe-inspiring view of the Barber Motorsports Park race track. The advancements in motorsports design and technology are equally important as its history— this museum and design center connects the two.

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a 501(C)(3) not-for-profit, private operating foundation that houses the world’s largest collections of motorcycles, Lotus racecars, and the Barber Advanced Design Center. The museum is dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, exhibition, and history of motorcycles, vintage vehicles, and motorsports.

Harry McPherson, R.I.P.

David Swarts

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June 28, 2023

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On June 19th, 2023 Harry McPherson passed away peacefully at home at the age of 70. Harry was born on September 11, 1952 in Kansas City, MO to Alex and Thelma (Stafford) McPherson. He moved to Winfield, IL with his parents and his brother Brian in the 1960’s. He married Barbara, his wife of 45 years, in 1978.

His love of sales and interacting with people developed early. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own company, Cima International, selling Nolan helmets for over 35 years. He traveled frequently and did countless trade shows, always nurturing ties with people throughout the motorcycle industry. Those treasured friendships have lasted for many years.

His capacious mind was always seeking new products to market as well as personal interests to pursue. He was a lifelong learner and an eclectic collector. He was always an optimist.

Harry and Barbara took up scuba diving in the mid-80’s and went on yearly dive trips until his health made that impossible. They visited many tropical locales, developed a deep love of the ocean and made wonderful friends.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Thelma McPherson, and his brother, Brian McPherson. He is survived by his wife Barbara, as well as brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many.

Many thanks to the team at Northwestern Medicine for their care over the years. You make a difference every day. Thank you also to family and friends who have helped in so many ways. You are cherished.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northwestern Memorial Foundation P.O. Box 734985 Chicago, Illinois 60673-4985. Please make checks payable to “Northwestern Memorial Foundation” and include Harry McPherson in the memo line. Donations can also be made online at foundation.nm.org or over the phone at 833.443.8663. Your gift will support Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center in Warrenville.

Donations can also be made to Literacy DuPage, 2100 Manchester Rd., Suite 904, Wheaton, IL 60187 or at literacydupage.org or to the charity of your choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harry Stafford McPherson please visit our Tribute Store.

Yamaha Pulling Out Of Snowmobile Market

David Swarts

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June 28, 2023

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Yamaha Motor Announces Eventual Withdrawal from Snowmobile Business

Yamaha Motor announces today plans for an eventual withdrawal of the snowmobile business. Yamaha plans to end sales of snowmobiles in Japan through the 2022 model year*, in Europe through the 2024 model year, and in North America through the 2025 model year.

1. History of the Business and Reasons for Withdrawal

In 1968, Yamaha released its first snowmobile, the SL350, by applying small engine technology which it developed in the motorcycle business. Over the past 55 years, Yamaha developed snowmobiles for sports, leisure, and business use as a means of transportation mainly in snowy areas found in North America and Europe. Yamaha also aimed to grow the business through the early introduction of environmentally-friendly 4-stroke models and alliances with other companies. However, Yamaha has concluded it will be difficult to continue a sustainable business in the snowmobile market. Going forward, Yamaha will concentrate management resources on current business activities and new growth markets

2. Future Actions

Yamaha will ensure parts availability, service, and related customer satisfaction now and after the snowmobile final production run occurs.

Production of the recently introduced 2024 models is underway and scheduled for fall delivery. Yamaha distributors will be working closely with dealers to minimize impact and best position their business over the next 12 – 36 months.

3. Impact on Business Performance

Due to the exit schedule outlined above, the effect on consolidated business results will be minor.

Yamaha snowmobile dealers and customers throughout the world have proven to be among the most passionate. Yamaha thanks and cherishes all for their years of loyalty and shared enjoyment of this special winter pastime.

*The Japanese market currently continues to sell only in stock

American Flat Track: Black Hills Half-Mile Replacing Buffalo Chip TT

David Swarts

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June 28, 2023

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American Flat Track: Black Hills Half-Mile Replacing Buffalo Chip TT

Black Hills Half-Mile to Replace Buffalo Chip TT on Sunday, August 6 as Round 15 of the Progressive AFT Schedule

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 28, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, announced today that despite best efforts of all involved, the previously-announced Buffalo Chip TT will be replaced by the Black Hills Half-Mile at Black Hills Speedway on Sunday, August 6.

Producing the unique, purpose-built TT circuit planned for the Buffalo Chip Campgrounds requires a considerable amount of construction work to ensure the racing circuit would provide a safe and entertaining experience for both racers and fans. Unfortunately, inclement weather during key construction windows has prevented the initiation of the intensive construction schedule required to deliver a professional track suitable for hosting an AFT national.

Fortunately, the Black Hills Half-Mile will still give fans attending the 83rd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally an opportunity to catch Progressive AFT while on their annual trek to Sturgis, S.D. The half-mile track in nearby Rapid City is known for playing host to some of the most incredible racing all season and has been a featured attraction on the AFT schedule 15 times since debuting on the series calendar in 1991.

In the spirit of cooperation, this season’s Black Hills Half-Mile will feature a twilight race schedule, starting earlier in the day and ending earlier in the evening, giving fans time to attend both the AFT race in Rapid City and still make it to Buffalo Chip Campground for the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert.

Progressive AFT is hopeful that the Buffalo Chip’s much-awaited return to the schedule will take place as early as 2024.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/black-hills-half-mile-73564 to reserve your seats to the Black Hills Half-Mile today.

General Admission Grandstand tickets are just $25 (kids 12 and under $5 with a paid adult GA ticket), while Premium General Admission Grandstand tickets are $35 (all ages). Enjoy the heart-pumping race action from an exclusive, premium indoor VIP viewing area. Food and beverage are included, and all VIP pass holders will receive a Pit Pass included with their VIP ticket purchase of $125 (all ages).

Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv.

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

For more information on the Buffalo Chip Campground visit https://www.buffalochip.com/.

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

Racer, Instructor, U.S. Army Veteran Steve Broadstreet, R.I.P.

June 29, 2023

Steve Broadstreet serving as an instructor on his ex-Chris Ulrich Suzuki GSX-R1000 in 2015. Photo courtesy Broadstreet family.

Former racer, riding instructor, and U.S. Army veteran Steve Broadstreet died June 28 at the VCU Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. He was 60.

“This is probably one of the hardest things I will have to say,” Broadstreet’s wife Celeste posted today on social media. “Yesterday morning surrounded by myself and his boys, Steve passed away after a brief illness he, for this first time, couldn’t beat. Our hearts are broken. He was bigger than life and will be tremendously missed. We appreciate all the love and support that has been given. We will reach out with further details regarding a celebration of life for him. Ride fast, and do the biggest of wheelies Triple X. We love you!”

In addition to road racing and supermoto racing, Broadstreet worked as a riding instructor for the Cornerspeed, Cornerspin, and the Team Hammer Advanced Riding School.

Broadstreet is survived by his wife of 39 years Celeste, sons Brian Broadstreet and Darren Broadstreet, daughter-in-law Abby Broadstreet, and granddaughter Harper Broadstreet.

We will update this post with more information as it becomes available.

Godspeed, Steve.

WorldSBK: Rea “Full Of Optimism” Ahead Of Donington Round

June 29, 2023

Jonathan Rea (65), as seen during a recent test at MotorLand Aragon. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.