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Suzuki Announces First Batch Of 2024 Models

Suzuki GSX-R750, DR650S, and DR-Z400/DR-Z400SM Models Break Cover for 2024

Brea, CA (June 21, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is pleased to launch its first group of 2024 motorcycles. The Suzuki GSX-R750, DR-Z400S, DR-Z400SM, and DR650S models all remain pillars of Suzuki’s lineup.

Since defining the sportbike segment in 1985, winning multiple road racing championships, and becoming a dominant force in MotoAmerica Supersport racing over the past two seasons,  the 2024 GSX-R750 aims to thrill riders with laser-like handling and exhilarating acceleration.

For 2024, Suzuki DualSport models see the incredible DR-Z400 line celebrate its 25th anniversary, the DR-Z400SM defines Supermoto performance and style, while the proven DR650S continues to combine both on-road riding enjoyment with rock-solid off-road versatility.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

SPORTBIKE

Whether it’s on the road or the racetrack, the GSX-R750 delivers a stunning mixture of outstanding engine performance, precision handling, and a lightweight and agile chassis combining for an exhilarating motorcycle.

Its secret is an incomparable pairing of 750cc performance with the lightweight, compact chassis of a 600cc Supersport, complemented by technologically-advanced suspension front and rear.

For 2024 the GSX-R750 takes on a few stunning new looks, including revisiting Suzuki’s classic blue and white livery in Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue. It is also offered in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or classy Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.

Key Features

  • Iconic, GSX-R aerodynamic styling with three distinctive paint and graphics schemes.
  • Fuel-injected, 750cc, 4-cylinder engine powers a balanced sportbike experience.
  • Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the power delivery.
  • Twin-spar aluminum frame and Showa Big Piston Front Fork (BPF) deliver extraordinary handling.
  • Twin Brembo Monobloc, radially mounted front brakes deliver robust stopping power.

2024 Suzuki GSX-R750

MSRP $12,999

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR650S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR650S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

DUALSPORT

DR650S – The 2024 Suzuki DR650S continues its reign as perhaps the best all-around, dual-purpose motorcycle available today. Always an outstanding performance value, every DR650S is quality built and features a dependable, 644cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine mounted in a robust steel, semi-double cradle frame.

A variety of riders will enjoy this motorcycle, thanks to a seat height that may be significantly reduced (using the optional Low Side Stand Kit from Suzuki Genuine Accessories). Strong aluminum, spoke-style rims carrying tires that can manage both the street and dirt are fitted so riders can tackle pavement or trails with ease.

With Solid Black and Iron Gray paint and contrasting black and orange graphics, or bright Solid Special White #2 bodywork that features distinctive blue and black graphics, the DR650S looks great when ridden on any surface. Whatever adventure a rider undertakes, the 2024 Suzuki DR650S is a willing and eager partner.

Key Features: 

  • Convenient push-button electric starting easily gets the torque-rich, 644cc, air- and oil-cooled, 4-stroke thumper ready for fun.
  • The smooth-shifting transmission with easy-pull clutch makes it easy to ride the DR650S on any kind of road.
  • Built around cast and tubular parts precision welded together, the strong steel frame has high-quality suspension and brake components for trouble-free riding.
  • Engineered into the suspension is the ability to lower the seat height (Suzuki dealers can perform using an accessory low side stand kit).

2024 Suzuki DR650S

MSRP $7,099

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR-Z400S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR-Z400S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

DR-Z400S – The 2024 DR-Z400S is the latest evolution of the motorcycle that built the foundation of the modern DualSport movement. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2024, the DR-Z400S extends the on- and off-road legacy only Suzuki can provide.

Riders remain impressed with the torque from the 398cc, liquid-cooled powerplant, as well as the crisp-handling, adjustable suspension. This ultra-reliable bike is completely street-legal, with an electric start, and easy-to-read instrument cluster. Fully black, aluminum EXCEL rims laced with bright stainless-steel spokes are set up to accept rim locks if the rider chooses to mount more focused DualSport rubber.

True to its Suzuki off-road heritage, the 2024 DR-Z400S is available in stunning Champion Yellow bodywork enhanced with new blue and silver graphics, or gray and silver graphics on classy Solid Black bodywork making the DR-Z400S stand out everywhere.

Key Features: 

  • Compact, liquid-cooled, 398cc, single-cylinder engine produces widespread power
  • Electric starting and street-legal lighting
  • Narrow and strong chrome-moly frame
  • Fully adjustable, off-road capable suspension
  • Black, spoke-style wheels with 21- and 18-inch aluminum rims

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400S

MSRP $7,199

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR-Z400SM. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR-Z400SM. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

SUPERMOTO

DR-Z400SM – Suzuki’s 2024 SuperMoto variant, the DR-Z400SM, is based on the legendary DR-Z400S. Combining SuperMoto styling and features in a proven, narrow, lithe, and street-legal package. This bike brings off-road soul and sportbike riding fun to paved roads. The DR-Z400SM is just as at home on a twisty forest road, as it is on tight canyon curves, or slicing through commuter traffic around town.

Its 398cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine provides strong low-rpm torque and crisp throttle response for any of these rides. Key differences between the DR-Z400SM and the DR-Z400S are the inverted front fork, wide spoke-style 17-inch wheels, and 300mm diameter floating front brake rotor. The inverted fork contributes to less unsprung weight and improved overall on-road handling, while the large front brake and wider rims with high-grip tires help offer an exhilarating sportbike style riding experience.

Key Features: 

  • Suzuki’s DR-Z400SM SuperMoto model, is based on the proven DR-Z400S, combining  SuperMoto style and features in a narrow, lightweight, street-legal package.
  • Versatile and strong, 398cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, dry-sump engine has push-button starting.
  • The DR-Z400SM boasts fully adjustable MX-style suspension plus high-grip sportbike tires on strong spoke wheels featuring anodized, aluminum Excel rims.
  • The new Grand Blue and Solid Black or the dramatic Solid Black bodywork with angular graphics complement the motorcycle’s styling.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400SM

MSRP $7,899

Click Here for More Details

Like all Suzuki motorcycles, these 2024 models may be enhanced with a variety of Suzuki Genuine Accessories, specifically designed for each model, and aimed at enhancing the riding and ownership experience. For more information on these and all Suzuki motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, scooters, and accessories, please click to suzukicycles.com.

Note: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering.

 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by Suzuki Motor USA, LLC:

Suzuki RM-Z Motocross Motorcycles & Select Youth Products Launch for 2024

Brea, CA (June 21, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is pleased to introduce its 2024 RM-Z motocross models and select youth motorcycle and ATV products. Coming off a resurgent 2023 Supercross season, Suzuki’s RM-Z450 and RM-Z250 remain a weapon of choice for riders at all levels.

Delivering amateur and pro racers a solid combination of performance, value, handling, and attractive styling, the RM-Z line continues to be a viable motocross option for 2024 and represents, perhaps the industry’s strongest value proposition. And with the return of the RM Army Edition, RM-Z riders will have even more to look forward to.

Suzuki’s recreational youth motorcycles – the proven DR-Z125L and DR-Z50 continue providing an excellent entry point and riding skills learning path for young riders.

Suzuki’s QuadSport youth ATV- the QuadSport Z50 offers families with young riders a great route to discover the sport, capture treasured memories, and extend their kids’ riding skills. With thoughtful features that help deliver fun for young riders, and peace of mind for parents, the QuadSport Z50 is a great entry into off-road riding.

MOTOCROSS

RM-Z450– Legendary rider Ken Roczen proved the RM-Z450 remains the champion’s choice. The RM-Z450’s sleek, race-ready appearance, strong engine, and nimble chassis provide the effective power and precise handling required to continue Suzuki’s race-winning legacy. It is no surprise Roczen finished the just-concluded AMA Supercross season tied for third in the championship with an event win and multiple podium finishes.

The RM-Z450 epitomizes Suzuki’s Winning Balance philosophy of “RUN, TURN, and STOP” with strong brakes helping provide superb stopping power, a wide spread of engine muscle with high peak power; and a strong, light, and agile chassis allowing the RM-Z450 to remain the class standard for cornering performance.

Tuning the electronic fuel injection and ignition systems for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system; included with each 2024 RM-Z450.

Key Features

  • Fuel-injected engine delivers great throttle response delivering high peak power.
  • Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.
  • Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
  • Light, aluminum frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.
  • Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.
  • Coil spring fork provides impressive performance and easy tuning.
  • Showa® BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings deliver remarkable damping response.
  • Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.
  • Large 270mm front brake rotor helps increase stopping power and feel.
  • Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it, and from snagging on rider’s boots.
  • Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.
  • Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through an easy-to-use smartphone application.
  • Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450

MSRP $9,199

Click Here for More Details

 

RM ARMY EDITION 

The RM Army Edition is back for 2024.  This kit is comprised of a special set of components making 2024 RM-Zs even more race-ready, right out of the gate.

New for 2024, the RM Army Edition kit includes an exclusive full-system exhaust from Pro Circuit. The new system has a Stainless-Steel Head Pipe, a Titanium Silencer Shell, and a Carbon Fiber End Cap wrapped with a custom RM Army Edition decal. Also included is a fresh, new RM Army graphics package from Throttle Syndicate further enhancing the RM-Z’s styling.

All 2024 model RM-Z250’s and RM-Z450’s purchased through September 30th, 2023, will include an RM Army Edition Kit free of charge. RM Army Edition kits will be shipped directly to the selling Suzuki dealer after a rider purchases a new 2024 RM-Z motocross model. Combining this kit with the adjustability that Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 provides, the RM-Z reinforces itself even more as a worthy competitor.

A 2024-model Suzuki RM Army Edition RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM Army Edition RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

RM-Z250 – The 2024 RM-Z250 remains the choice of wise professionals and privateers everywhere, as this agile bike mirrors the sleek, race-ready RM-Z450 with a flexible engine and responsive chassis producing exceptional performance. Using Suzuki’s “RUN, TURN, and STOP” philosophy, factory engineers have made the RM-Z250 a formidable competitor for 2024.

Fed by a dual injector EFI system, a center-port cylinder head, and an AMA-compliant exhaust system, the RM-Z250’s four-stroke, four-valve engine delivers strong, usable power through the entire rev range.

The RM-Z250 has an enduring reputation as the best-handling 250 on the track. The twin-spar aluminum frame and hydro-formed swingarm carry a KYB suspension using a coil spring fork and a rear shock with four-way damping force adjustment. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork help the rider maneuver the RM-Z250 as it carves up the racetrack.

Tuning the RM-Z250’s fuel injection and ignition for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system. Suzuki’s Winning Balance is on display with the 2024 RM-Z250 as it sets its own high standard for cornering performance.

Key Features

  • Dual-injected engine delivers excellent throttle response and peak power.
  • KYB coil spring fork and shock have efficient spring rates and damping force settings.
  • Aggressive Suzuki race styling and race-ready ergonomics
  • Center-port cylinder head increases output and throttle response.
  • Dual fuel injector system boosts high rpm power.
  • Traction management system helps the bike hook up.
  • Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
  • Coil spring KYB fork provides outstanding performance and easy tuning.
  • KYB rear shock and linkage deliver remarkable smoothness.
  • Race-ready, high-grip Dunlop MX33 tires
  • Large-diameter front brake helps increase stopping power and feel.
  • Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.
  • Aggressive styling from the championship caliber RM-Z450
  • Narrow cockpit helps the rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.
  • Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through the easy-to-use smartphone application.
  • Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z250. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z250. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki RM-Z250

MSRP $8,099

Click Here for More Details

 

YOUTH MOTORCYCLES

DR-Z125L – Well suited for young and smaller-stature riders, the 2024 DR-Z125L can take on the dirt like a larger, more expensive bike. Large-diameter 19-inch front and 16-inch rear tires, as well as a front disc brake, help deliver big bike performance to a size-appropriate motorcycle.

The DR-Z125L is the perfect platform to build essential riding skills, thanks to a manual clutch and a five-speed transmission helping young riders develop their skills as they advance within the sport. Styled to mirror Suzuki’s championship-winning RM-Z motocrossers, this DR-Z continues with proven engineering, while the sharp handling and ample low-end and mid-range power provide the get-up-and-go that defines Suzuki off-road bikes.

Key Features

  • Compact and dependable, 124cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder engine.
  • Smooth-shifting transmission with easy-pull clutch.
  • Strong steel frame and beam-style swingarm.
  • Telescopic forks and link-type rear suspension.
  • Champion-approved RM-Z styling graphics.

 

A 2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L

MSRP $3,599

Click Here for More Details

 

DR-Z50 – The 2024 Suzuki DR-Z50 is the ideal way to introduce young, beginning riders to motorcycling. The four-stroke powered DR-Z50 wraps big bike looks around a platform developed to keep supervising adults in control of the ride while their rider begins to learn the sport.

This compact, Suzuki-built mini-bike brings ease and convenience to riders just getting started on two wheels. With an automatic clutch and three-speed transmission, easy-to-use electric starting, and a low 22-inch seat height, the race-styled DR-Z50 helps build confidence and ability for young, supervised riders. The proven, easy-to-maintain 49cc engine delivers smooth, controllable power. Adult supervisors may adjust the engine’s power level, so young riders learn riding skills at a proper and comfortable learning pace.

This motorcycle can be in the family for years, thanks to its stout construction and sturdy 10-inch wheels; the Suzuki DR-Z50 mixes a reliable engine with quality running gear built and engineered to last. The DR-Z50 is the perfect way to have your youngest in the family involved in motorcycling!

Key Features 

  • Reliable, easy-to-control 49cc, 4-stroke engine
  • Smooth-shifting 3-speed transmission with automatic clutch
  • Push-button electric starting with a backup kick starter
  • Keyed ignition and power limiter for supervising adult control
  • Champion-approved RM-Z-inspired race styling and graphics

 

A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z50

MSRP $2,579

Click Here for More Details

 

YOUTH ATV

QuadSport Z50 – The 2024 QuadSport Z50 is designed for adult-supervised riders aged six and older and includes features that help make learning to ride safe and fun. With a focus on safety and adult control, this quad features a throttle limiter to help control engine output, a tether switch to remotely shut off the ignition, and a keyed main switch that helps prevent unauthorized use.

Adjustable hand controls, an automatic transmission, full floorboards, and a low seat height make sure beginning riders enjoy active convenience and control while learning. To sum it up, the QuadSport Z50 is filled with quality, safety, and style, making it the perfect choice for younger adventurers!

Key Features: 

  • Designed for adult-supervised riders ages 6 and older
  • Keyed ignition and remote, tether-type engine stop switch
  • Adjustable throttle limiter controls speed
  • Easy electric starting, plus backup recoil starter
  • Smooth-running CVT automatic transmission

 

A 2024 Suzuki QuadSport Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024 Suzuki QuadSport Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

*ATVs are not toys. Serious injury or death can result from improper use of ATVs. Your youngster’s safety will depend on you taking a “Safety First” approach to ATV riding. The QuadSport Z50 may be used by those aged six and older. Even though your child may be the right age, you need to be sure that he or she has the size, strength, skills, and judgment to operate the ATV safely. ATV riders can call the SVIA at 1-800-852-5344 and we’ll even pay for the training. Along with concerned conservationists everywhere, Suzuki urges you to Tread Lightly! ® on public and private land.

American Matsudaira Racing FIM Speedway World Championship SGP4 Event

American Kensei Matsudaira to Represent USA at FIM Speedway World Championship SGP4 Race at Malilla, Sweden

Japanese-American road racer Kensei Matsudaira will make his international speedway racing debut on July 15, 2023 at the FIM Speedway GP of Sweden – Malilla. Kensei, age 12, was selected to represent the US in the FIM Speedway World Championship in the launch of the SGP4 youth category on a new entry-level world championship bike for 11 to 13 year old racers. 18 riders from around the world have been invited to race in this special one-time event at one of World Speedway’s most famous venues.

“I’ve always wanted to race speedway in Europe, so I’m very excited to have this opportunity to race at a FIM Speedway World Championship race,” Kensei said. “I’m proud to represent the US and American speedway, and hoping to do as well as I can to make Team USA Speedway proud.”

Team USA Speedway manager Steve Evans added, “Kensei is an outstanding motorcyclist in so many disciplines. He has more speedway experience and success than anyone else in his age group and is the current 150cc Youth National Champion. The new SGP4 category is huge for the sport and American Speedway and might be just what we need to help elevate the USA back to the top. We wish Kensei well and know with his international racing experience he will make the most of this fantastic opportunity.”

Kensei is an accomplished international road racer but is also well accomplished in speedway which he has been racing since the age of 4. After dozens of race wins including an undefeated season in the pee wee class, Kensei moved up to the Junior Speedway 150cc class at age 7 and immediately became a national title contender. In 2022 Kensei became the AMA Speedway Youth 150 National Champion.

In road racing, Kensei is a three-time MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul Champion, taking the 110cc and 160cc crowns in 2021 and the Ohvale GP-2 190cc crown in 2022. He is the first FIM MiniGP World Series North America champion, and has also been racing at the national level in Spain since 2019. He is the 2022 RFME Copa de España de MiniVelocidad vice champion in the Spanish national Moto5 category. Kensei is currently racing full time in Spain in the 2023 RFME ESBK (Campeonato de España de Superbike) Moto4 championship where he sits 8th in points with one podium finish so far this season.

Kensei and his family would like to thank all of their sponsors for their support this year:

Nox#27 Racing Team, Evike.com, Evike Europe, HJC Helmets, Dave Designs, Almassera El Teular, OrangeCat Racing, Iconic Motorbikes, Bison Track, Moto Tecnica, Karen E. Ott Photography, BSP Racing, American Racing Team & Academy, The Starting Grid, TJ Corse, VNM Sport, NLAB Studio, California Superbike School, MadLabs Minimoto, Hans King, 73 Moto Parts, D.I.D Chain, Galfer USA, Bickle Racing, Yoshimura R&D, Vortex Racing, Suspension Matters, Moto Survival School, Live 100 Moto, TechSpec, Landers Racing, Boyko Racing, Mini Moto Alliance

BMW Produces One Millionth GS With Boxer Engine

BMW Motorrad celebrates one millionth GS with boxer engine.

World premiere of the new BMW R 1300 GS on 28 September 2023 at BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin.

Munich/Berlin. Today, on 21 June 2023, the 1,000,000th GS equipped with a boxer engine rolled off the production line at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin-Spandau – a BMW R 1250 GS.

BMW motorcycles have been manufactured in Berlin since 1969 and the BMW Motorrad GS models with boxer engines since 1980. Elemental, authentic motorcycles, which possess incomparable all-round qualities have spurred on countless motorbike enthusiasts on trips to distant countries, spectacular adventure trips and expeditions to the remotest regions of our planet over the past decades. The latest edition of the now legendary BMW GS with boxer engine – the R 1300 GS – will be presented on 28 September 2023 at the grand opening of the new BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin.

The BMW GS with boxer engine: The legendary combination of road, off-road and long-haul expertise.

Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “With the R 80 G/S and its unique combination of on-road and off-road suitability, everyday qualities and long-distance touring abilities, BMW Motorrad created the new motorcycle genre of touring enduros in 1980. The BMW GS with boxer engine became an icon, which achieved global success in this segment. What is more: The BMW GS became a legend and at the same time an indispensable cornerstone in the BMW Motorrad model range. Its outstanding talents, such as dynamic riding performance, brawny off-road qualities, superior long-distance comfort and enormous robustness, have since been continuously developed by BMW Motorrad and transferred to other BMW Motorrad model series with great success. I am therefore very pleased that today, and especially in our “100 Years of BMW Motorrad” anniversary year, we are able to contribute a major milestone to the corporate history of the BMW Group with the one millionth BMW GS motorbike with a boxer engine. I am equally pleased that the unique history of BMW Motorrad models with boxer engines will soon be supplemented by an exciting chapter with numerous innovations with the new R 1300 GS.”

The one millionth BMW GS with a boxer engine is an R 1250 GS in Triple Black Style and was duly celebrated today, 21 June 2023, during a works meeting at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin-Spandau.

The new BMW R 1300 GS: Premiere at the opening ceremony of BMW Motorrad Welt Berlin on 28 September 2023.

The celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad are continuing at pace. After the big party at the BMW Motorrad Days, where thousands of motorcycle fans from all over the world are expected from 7 to 9 July 2023, BMW Motorrad Welt will officially open its doors on 28 September. In the new “heart of the brand” – located directly next to the BMW Motorrad plant site in Berlin-Spandau – the eagerly awaited new BMW R 1300 GS will be presented at an exclusive opening event. Interested fans will have the opportunity to follow the opening ceremony via livestream on the BMW Group and BMW Motorrad social media channels. From 30 September 2023, BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin will then be open to all visitors.

The BMW R 80 G/S: Initial spark for a new motorcycle segment.

In autumn 1980 BMW Motorrad presented the R 80 G/S, a motorcycle which combined two very special areas of riding for the first time: Off-road and on-road. What began with 798 cubic centimetres of displacement and 50 hp has developed over more than four decades into a fascinating high-tech touring enduro of the calibre of the current BMW R 1250 GS. Complemented by state-of-the-art chassis technology and electronic control systems such as ABS, traction control, engine drag torque control, semi-active suspension and a great deal more. It is also thanks to this ongoing and consistent advancement that the BMW GS models with boxer engine have advanced to become the most sought-after touring enduros in the world to this day.

MotoAmerica: Gagne Holds Superbike Championship Lead Heading To “The Ridge”

Will Anyone Stop Gagne’s Win Streak At Ridge Motorsports Park?

Gagne Riding A Four-Race Win Streak At The Racetrack In Washington State
 

IRVINE, CA (June 21, 2023) – For a fourth straight year, the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship visits the Pacific Northwest with round four of the 2023 championship slated for Ridge Motorsports Park, June 23-25. And for a fourth straight year, Yamaha will be attempting to keep its perfect win streak alive at the tight and twisty circuit on the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington.

For the streak to be broken, someone is going to have to figure out how to beat the combination of Jake Gagne and his Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing YZF-R1 with the pair riding a four-race win streak at “the Ridge.” But, based on the fact that both BMW and Ducati have won half of the six races held thus far in 2023, there’s obviously a chance that could happen.

So, who won the two races that Gagne didn’t win at Ridge Motorsports Park? Well, that would be Cameron Beaubier, the victor in the inaugural two MotoAmerica Superbike races at the Ridge in 2020 and the winner of two of the six races held thus far in this year’s title chase. And Beaubier won those two races as Gagne’s teammate on a Yamaha YZF-R1 in 2020. All that translates to the fact that Yamaha has won all six of the Superbike races held at Ridge Motorsports Park.

Three riders will go to Washington with Medallia Superbike wins in 2023: Gagne, Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW’s Beaubier and Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin. And only 21 points separate those three atop the championship point standings.

Heading the title chase is two-time defending Medallia Superbike Champion Gagne with his three wins and two additional podiums in his pocket. Gagne also arrives in the Pacific Northwest happy to see Wisconsin and Road America in his rear-view mirror. Gagne went into the Road America round with a 21-point lead over Beaubier after the first two rounds and he was fortunate to leave Wisconsin still with a 12-point lead over the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion.

Gagne’s Yamaha team had a miserable weekend in Wisconsin with engine failures and a lack of top speed momentarily keeping his run for a third straight title in check. Gagne failed to finish race one at Road America, but he he salvaged his weekend with a third-place finish in race two.

Race one at Road America was won by Beaubier, but his Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW M1000 RR also suffered a mechanical failure in race two that prevented him from keeping the points lead he’d inherited the day before with Gagne’s failure to finish. Thus, the top two in the title chase come to the state of Washington separated by just 12 points.

The man who gained the most at Road America was Herrin with the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion having left Wisconsin with his first win of the year, which came a day after his third-place finish in race one. Herrin starts his weekend at Ridge Motorsports Park nine points behind Beaubier and 21 behind Gagne.

Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz is fourth in the point standings, and he also had an off weekend at Road America with eighth- and sixth-place finishes in the two Medallia Superbike races. The South African is nine points behind Herrin and nine points ahead of Beaubier’s Tytlers Cycle Racing teammate PJ Jacobsen.

Like Herrin, Jacobsen is also coming off a great weekend in Wisconsin with the New Yorker carding a pair of second-place finishes in what was easily his best weekend in the Medallia Superbike class.

Sixth in the title chase heading to Washington is Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante. Escalante was a fighting fourth in race one at Road America but had some issues in race two and dropped four places to finish eighth.

Although Cameron Petersen’s weekend in Wisconsin wasn’t stellar by normal standards, it could have been a lot worse. Petersen came into the Road America round with an injured right wrist suffered in a testing crash the week prior but was able to bravely continue, and he finished fifth and fourth in the two races. Still, the South African has a lot of work to do to try and claw his way back into championship contention as he trails teammate Gagne by 54 points.

Corey Alexander, the third of the Tytlers Cycle Racing teamsters, is eighth in the title chase, six points adrift of Petersen and two ahead of the now-retired Toni Elias, who will be replaced for the Ridge round by journeyman racer Taylor Knapp. Knapp is currently sixth in the Steel Commander Stock 1000 Championship, but Ridge Motorsports Park isn’t a round of that championship so he will be able to focus his efforts on the Medallia Superbike class.

Aftercare Scheibe Racing’s Ashton Yates rounds out the top 10 in the Medallia Superbike Championship heading to Ridge Motorsports Park.

Pre-Ridge Superbike Notes

Two-time MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion Jake Gagne is the winningest rider in the short three-year (six-race) history of MotoAmerica holding a round of its championship at Ridge Motorsports Park. Gagne has won four of the six races with Cameron Beaubier winning the first two races in 2020.

Last year, Gagne started from pole position and won both races, besting his teammate Cameron Petersen and Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci in race one and Petrucci and Petersen in race two.

Gagne is also the lap record holder at Ridge Motorsports Park with the Colorado resident lapping at 1:39.145 in final qualifying last year to break his own record of 1:39.568 from 2021.

Portions of the 16-turn, 2.47-mile Ridge Motorsports Park circuit have undergone re-paving since MotoAmerica visited the track a year ago and that usually results in lap records across all classes. In addition, track owners have also added curbing to the track and have erected new grandstands for spectator viewing.

After winning both Medallia Superbike races a year ago, Jake Gagne moved to within 11 points of then championship leader Danilo Petrucci. This year, Gagne arrives in Washington with a 12-point lead over Cameron Beaubier, who is back in the MotoAmerica series after two years competing in the Moto2 World Championship.

With his two wins thus far in the 2023 Superbike Championship, Beaubier continues to gain ground on his former teammate Josh Hayes on the all-time AMA Superbike win list. Australian Mat Mladin tops the list with his 81 Superbike victories with Hayes second on 61 wins. Beaubier, however, is on the move with 56 victories in AMA Superbike racing.

With his three wins in 2023, Jake Gagne is now tied for fourth on the all-time Superbike win list with Miguel Duhamel and Toni Elias, with the latter announcing his retirement following the Road America round. Those three have 32 Superbike victories.

Hayes, meanwhile, continues to chase the all-time AMA road race win record as he is currently tied with Miguel Duhamel with 86 wins across all classes. Hayes will be aboard his Squid Hunter Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 in the two Supersport races at Ridge Motorsports Park. Beaubier, meanwhile, lurks in fourth on the all-time list with 77 wins – nine behind Duhamel and Hayes.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

Pipe Dreams Podcast (And Video): E8 – Kyle Wyman, The Godfather Of Bagger Racing

Editorial Note: To listen to the podcast go HERE and to watch the video of the podcast scroll down.

Episode 8: Kyle Wyman

The Godfather of Bagger Racing

June 21st, 2023 – MotoAmerica / American Flat Track Racers Corey Alexander and James Rispoli are pleased to release Episode 8 of their Pipe Dreams Podcast featuring [2021] King Of The Baggers Champion, MotoAmerica Team Owner, and factory Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle pilot Kyle Wyman.

Kyle has spent the entirety of his career doing whatever he can just to make it to the racetrack, riding whatever bike he could to yield him the best result and at times make him the most marketable to potential sponsors. After conquering the business of racing – out of a pickup truck to owning his own semi hauler and staffing full-time employees, Kyle put it all aside to join the factory Harley-Davidson race team to ride a bagger. Though an early adopter of the bagger vision, his decision would pay off and over the course of the last few years bagger racing has exploded worldwide.

We were able to sit with Kyle and discuss the variety of hurdles he faced throughout his career, from family to injuries and the struggles of maxing out credit cards to make it to the next round. We hope you enjoy learning about the guy behind the bagger! Follow Kyle on social media via @kylewyman or @kwr_harley to see more.

Listen Now

Available on all major podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, the Eighth full episode with Kyle launches today. Video of the episode can be viewed on Spotify and YouTube.

About Pipe Dreams Podcast:

Pipe Dreams Podcast launched in 2023 by MotoAmerica and American Flat Track riders Corey Alexander and James Rispoli in an effort to share the stories of fellow racers and motorsport professionals around the world. The podcast releases twice per month for streaming on all major platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Youtube. Production and editing is curated by videographer Sam Thurman. Follow @pipedreams_pod on social media or visit https://anchor.fm/pipe-dreams to listen now.

 

WorldSBK: Bautista Tests Ducati MotoGP Bike At Misano

Alvaro Bautista’s test with the Ducati Desmosedici GP concluded at Misano.

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli was the stage of Alvaro Bautista’s long-awaited MotoGP test. It was an intense two days during which the Spanish rider got back on the Ducati Desmosedici GP after the last Grand Prix held on 18 November 2018 in Valencia.

After Day-1 aimed at regaining the feeling with both bike and tyres (50 laps completed), on Day-2 Bautista was able to ride with continuity in the morning, focusing on the set-up and also trying out different tyre solutions.

No time attack attempts were made for the Spaniard; Bautista closed the test (49 laps completed on Day-2) with a quickest time of 1’32.590, recorded on lap seven of the fourth run, on soft tyres and a track temperature of 49°.

In the afternoon the  Aruba.it Racing – Ducati rider was back on his Ducati Panigale V4R to complete a few laps and reacquaint himself with the bike he will ride on the sixth round of the 2023 WorldSBK season, scheduled at Donington (UK) from 29 June to 2 July.

 

Alvaro Bautista's (19) test on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano was very thorough. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Alvaro Bautista’s (19) test on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano was very thorough. Photo courtesy Ducati.

 

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)

“It was a good test. I had a lot of fun getting back on the Ducati Desmosedici GP and I’m satisfied with the work we did. Between the first and second day, the feeling improved, also thanks to the team and Ducati, who put me in a position to adjust the bike with some changes that helped me feel even more comfortable. We also worked to find confidence with different tyre solutions and the results were tangible. The time? It’s not important, also because I never pushed for the time: there was no reason to take risks. The future? The future is at Donington and Imola. We have two very close rounds and after this good experience I just have to think about the WorldSBK championship”.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch All The Action From Ridge Motorsports Park (Updated)

MotoAmerica: How To Watch MotoAmerica Superbikes at Ridge Motorsports Park

It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action

Everything you need to know to watch the MotoAmerica Superbikes in Washington.

 

 

MotoGP: World Championship Heading To “The Cathedral”

4.54km of adrenaline: strap in for the TT Circuit Assen!

The time has come to return to the Cathedral, and we don’t need to remind you: WE LOVE IT

Wednesday, 21 June 2023

This is it. The final ride before the summer break – and our visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed – and at a track where that legendary final chicane could decide it all. There’s no better place to bring the curtain down on the first half of a spectacular season than the one that’s been part of the sport since 1949, so let’s get back to where we left off for the Motul TT Assen!

On a roll

If his Tissot Sprint wins and podiums weren’t convincing enough, does taking on the reigning Champion and coming out on top get the job done? It was one of the closest ever finishes at the Sachsenring on Sunday and that was thanks to two riders: Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). Lap by lap, the two staged an instant classic and we can’t wait to see what they’ve got in the locker at Assen – with Bagnaia also having won here last year.

Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), meanwhile, is on his own roll of three MotoGP™ podiums in a row for the first time ever, just like Martin. One may not (yet?) be a win, but it’s a fine run of form as Pramac really gain some momentum. Will Assen continue that crescendo?

For Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), the run has picked back up again. And the holeshot went to the Aussie once again at the Sachsenring. A lone orange ranger at a Ducati party after a crash for teammate Brad Binder, Miller kept it on the road for another good chunk of points – and his form at Assen is fine, including that first ever MotoGP™ win. He, and Binder as he’ll dust himself off ready to race again, can’t be counted out of the fight at the front.

Back on it

It wasn’t the greatest weekend ever for Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) last time out, but it was a solid one. And the TT Circuit Assen is where he took that maiden MotoGP™ podium, so we can likely expect him right back in the fight at the front at a very different venue to the Sachsenring. Teammate Luca Marini too, with the number 10 still taking those top finishes although now looking for another real assault on the top – all the way to the finish line.

Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), meanwhile, took some good points at the Sachsenring after a crash out in Mugello and he’ll want that to prove an uptick. Miguel Oliveira (CryptoData RNF MotoGP™ Team) was the top Aprilia and back in the top ten despite his ongoing recovery, and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) is also getting back in the groove.

Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), meanwhile, is also banking those points and top tens, but can he take another step? Finally, for Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) it’s going pretty well. He hasn’t managed to replicate that stunning top four in France yet, but he’s kept scoring and is only one of three riders to do so on every Sunday so far. He also adores Assen.

Time for a turnaround

After an impressive pre-season for Aprilia, it’s all gone a bit quiet on the frontrunning by the time we arrive at Assen. But if there’s anywhere Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) would choose to stake his claim back on the podium fight, it could well be Assen. His record at the track is exemplary and it’s where he took his first Aprilia podium too… so could it start here? Teammate Aleix Espargaro will also want to press that reset button, and his record at Assen is no slouch either. Cast your mind back to this time last year and enjoy a re-watch of THAT final chicane overtake.

At Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™, meanwhile, there are also some good memories from Assen but the Iwata marque need some form. What can bring them closer to the front? What are they working on? Questions for the next time we can “talk to Lin.” But aside from the swirling maelstrom of media talk there remain the 2021 World Champion and a multiple MotoGP™ winner on the machinery, so what can they do? For Fabio Quartararo the mission will probably start on Friday again, and getting into that Q2. And finishing ahead of Franco Morbidelli – something he hasn’t done in the last couple of races.

For Raul Fernandez (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team), however, it’s probably points. It remains a tough season with not much to show for it yet, although that arm surgery wasn’t too long ago either. Can he make a step at Assen?

Back in the saddle

We know Jonas Folger will continue subbing for Pol Espargaro at GASGAS Factory Racing Tech 3, and another reveal is the return of Iker Lecuona to Repsol Honda Team colours after the Spaniard rode in his home round at Jerez and had a pretty solid weekend, this time standing in for Joan Mir. As Alex Rins (LCR Honda Castrol) continues to recover, we also know it’ll be HRC test rider Stefan Bradl in the saddle in the Spaniard’s place.

All this is also the backdrop to a quiet run of points scoring GP finishes for Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). He’s only failed to score once this season, at COTA, somewhat interestingly where Rins won Honda’s first race for some time earlier in the year. The arrival of Lecuona and Bradl is a new benchmark for the Japanese rider.

The biggest question of all

In the pre-event press conference ahead of the German GP, Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) said he was interested to see how the weekend would go after he missed out on competing at some of his other best tracks, Termas de Rio Hondo and the Circuit of the Americas. But the answer wasn’t what he wanted. After five crashes peppered with some heroics in between, the eight-time World Champion called time on his Sachsenring weekend before the Grand Prix race. He therefore remains undefeated at the venue but looking for a lot more at the TT Circuit Assen. He has “only” won twice at the track in MotoGP™, but could that work in his favour as the pressure comes off? One of the most successful partnerships in the history of motorcycle cycling is now looking at the north face of their own Eiger – and plenty thought that would never be scaled. It has been. Can they start rebuilding from here?

Assen was on the very first calendar in 1949, and as the world’s first motorsport returns to the venue in 2023, a lot has changed. But not the sheer adoration of racing, and not the crowds that flock in. It’s going to be a rollercoaster weekend of the best kind, so strap in and let’s go racing on truly hallowed ground at the Cathedral!

SHOWTIME

Friday’s practice sessions decide the automatic entrants to Q2, before the MotoGP™ grid qualify on Saturday morning. The Tissot Sprint is set for lights out at 15:00 on Saturday as ever, and the Grand Prix gets going at 14:00 CEST!

Tissot Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT +2)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT +2)

Moto2™: Can Arbolino strike back?

Tony Arbolino’s (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) lead in the Moto2™ standings is getting smaller. After that crash in France for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), the Italian had some breathing space… but he’s not been able to beat the Spaniard since. Now it’s another new and wildly different venue, Arbolino will aim to make now the time to strike back – taking the momentum into the summer break. But can he stop Acosta?

Behind that duo, Jake Dixon (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) was back on the podium in Germany to make it exactly the same rostrum, but it was quite a different race for second. The Brit was glued to the back of Arbolino late in the race, so that’s one mission accomplished. The next? Really mix it up with the two, and Assen is a venue he knows very, very well.

Are we set for another Arbolino vs Acosta classic or can Dixon or the likes of Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) get in that battle? Find out on Sunday at 12:15 (GMT +2)!

Will Öncü vs Sasaki take on Assen?

Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) did everything he needed to in Germany to keep that impressive lead going, taking third and another podium on a day where he couldn’t quite push to fight for that win. But looking at the pace of Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), the Spaniard will want to hit back at Assen.

Öncü and Sasaki almost created their own Grand Prix class in Germany, staging a tense chess match right to the flag and disappearing in a private duel to do so. Can they show that speed once again at Assen? Both are used to running at the front, but not quite that far in front. Öncü is also now a Grand Prix winner after coming so so close, so many times. With the pressure off in that regard, box ticked, he’ll be an interesting one to watch. As ever! Are the veterans now back in that groove?

Tune in for more Moto3™ on Sunday at 11:00 (GMT+2) to find out!

Brembo’s 19RCS Corsa Corta RR Wins Award

Brembo wins the 2023 Red Dot Award for the 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR

THE 2022 EVOLUTION OF THE ICONIC RADIAL MASTER CYLINDER HAS BEEN AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS DISTINCTION IN THE PRODUCT DESIGN CATEGORY

Brembo has been awarded today with the 2023 Red Dot Award for its 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR- Race Replica in the Product Design category.

As one of the most important and prestigious design competitions, the Red Dot Award selects and celebrates the best creations that combine innovation with outstanding aesthetics. Winning this award further underlines the distinctive design of Brembo’s solutions and confirms the company’s unwavering commitment to bringing innovation to the mobility of tomorrow and the unparalleled capacity to combine design and performance up to top motorsport championships.

The award-winning 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR is the 2022 evolution of the company’s radial master cylinder that combines even greater performance and lightness with a sporty look, in line with SuperSport and Naked bikes for which it has been designed.

Machined from billet of Aeronautical Aluminum Alloy and finished with a hard oxidation treatment, its high level of technology is directly derived from the master cylinders used in MotoGP and SBK championships.

In all its improvements over the years, the lever has always been highly regarded by enthusiasts since it allows riders to tailor the “bite point” exactly where they want it, with an easily accessible selector on the top of the master cylinder itself.

The selector operates a cam mechanism to let the user choose between three different responsiveness settings (Normal, Sport and Race). In addition, it is equipped with the RCS (Ratio Click System), which permits to change in the brake force distribution without altering the system’s performance in terms of pure power.

The adjustment system allows the riders to achieve a complete feeling with their bike and to adapt braking performance to their riding style, weather and road conditions. Therefore, this radial master cylinder is considered the perfect choice for riders are looking for a performance upgrade and taking care of their bike’s set-up, without ever compromising its aesthetics.

The 19 RCS CORSA CORTA RR earned Brembo its second Red Dot Award, while the first was won in 2019 with the previous 19 RCS CORSA CORTA. The design quality is the common factor in these awarded products.

With around 20.000 entries per year, the Red Dot Design Award is one of the world’s largest design competitions. In 2023, projects from 60 countries were submitted and evaluated in 51 competition categories.

The Brembo 19 RCS CORSA CORTA RR has been selected by a jury of 43 international design experts who have been convening for more than 60 years to choose the year’s best designs. The prizes, which have been awarded since 1955, are presented at a special ceremony, the 2023 edition of which has been held today in Essen, Germany.

American Flat Track: Mees Carrying Momentum Into Lima Half-Mile

Daniels and Co. Attempt to Slow Mees’ Roll at Lima Half-Mile

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Following three straight Miles, Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, now shifts its gears to race four consecutive Half-Miles starting with this weekend’s Mission Lima Half-Mile presented by Indian Motorcycle and Drag Specialties at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio, on Saturday, June 24.

Reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750) comes in with all the momentum after sweeping the aforementioned Miles. He’s also fully at home at the venue with its trademark pea-gravel cushion, considering he’s not just a five-time winner of the race but also its promoter with wife Nichole.

Even with all that considered, Mees isn’t necessarily the overwhelming favorite to win this weekend; several others have a legitimate claim as well.

Even as a rookie, Mission SuperTwins points leader Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) looked like the rider to beat pretty much all day here a year ago. In the Main Event, he fought his way up from a bad start to battle for the lead before coming home in second place.

And the rider who ultimately beat Daniels was not Mees, but rather Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750). Robinson, who comes in fresh off an ultra-close runner-up result at the DuQuoin Mile, is a two-time winner of the Lima Half-Mile and driven to score his first victory of ‘23.

That’s also the case for Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 790 Duke), another two-time winner of the prestigious event. Bauman was as strong as he’s been all season this past weekend and is now primed to capitalize as the season shifts to some tracks well aligned with his strengths.

JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) have all had their moments this season and look to add some more this weekend as the trio headline an extended list of additional podium contenders.

Another rider to keep tabs on is the returning Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), who won the Mission Production Twins race aboard the Royal Enfield here in 2021.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

The hard-won points advantage of defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champ Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) took something of a battering during the recent run of Miles. This didn’t come entirely unexpectedly, and despite the dip, he still managed to weather the storm and continues to stand atop the championship standings.

Now he’s poised to strike back. A year ago, the foundations of Kopp’s championship campaign were built on his Half-Mile prowess, reeling in five HM victories in eight attempts. Included in that list of wins was a blowout performance at the Lima Half-Mile, in which he shook free from the pack on the race’s opening lap and never looked back.

The riders who joined him on the podium that night will look to make it more of a contest this time around, as both come into the weekend considerably more experienced and in stellar form.

Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) is just nine points behind Kopp on the strength of five consecutive podiums, four of which runner-ups. And he’s the opposite of satisfied by that impressive stat considering he’s still seeking his first Progressive AFT victory after multiple near-misses.

Even with Kopp’s one-sided victory, the rider who turned the most heads at Lima a year ago was arguably Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), who finished in second while making his series’ debut. The Aussie is a class full-timer now and quickly making his presence felt, notching up a pair of race wins already in ‘23.

The rest of the usual suspects should factor up front again this weekend, including the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R).

While a bit quiet at the last two rounds, 1st Impressions Husqvarna teammates Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) might just make more noise this weekend. Cose managed to win a Mission Production Twins race and podium in Parts Unlimited AFT Singles at Lima on a single evening back in ‘19, while Ott finished inside the top five here just last year.

And don’t rule out a huge night for Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F), who was victorious at Lima in both 2018 and 2019.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at the track on Saturday as well, including numerous vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and extensive motorcycle parking.

Don’t miss your last chance to save $10 per ticket before the sale ends and prices return to normal on Wednesday, June 21. Act fast to get General Admission Bleacher tickets for just $30 (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult GA ticket). Upgraded options include Reserved Grandstand and Premier Reserved Grandstand tickets along with VIP ticket add-ons.

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.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/lima-half-mile-58771 to reserve your seats today.

Gates will open for fans at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 6:40 p.m. ET (3:40 p.m. PT).

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.

FOX Sports coverage of the Mission Lima Half-Mile presented by Indian Motorcycle and Drag Specialties, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, July 2, at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 p.m. PT).

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

Suzuki Announces First Batch Of 2024 Models

A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

Suzuki GSX-R750, DR650S, and DR-Z400/DR-Z400SM Models Break Cover for 2024

Brea, CA (June 21, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is pleased to launch its first group of 2024 motorcycles. The Suzuki GSX-R750, DR-Z400S, DR-Z400SM, and DR650S models all remain pillars of Suzuki’s lineup.

Since defining the sportbike segment in 1985, winning multiple road racing championships, and becoming a dominant force in MotoAmerica Supersport racing over the past two seasons,  the 2024 GSX-R750 aims to thrill riders with laser-like handling and exhilarating acceleration.

For 2024, Suzuki DualSport models see the incredible DR-Z400 line celebrate its 25th anniversary, the DR-Z400SM defines Supermoto performance and style, while the proven DR650S continues to combine both on-road riding enjoyment with rock-solid off-road versatility.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki GSX-R750. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

SPORTBIKE

Whether it’s on the road or the racetrack, the GSX-R750 delivers a stunning mixture of outstanding engine performance, precision handling, and a lightweight and agile chassis combining for an exhilarating motorcycle.

Its secret is an incomparable pairing of 750cc performance with the lightweight, compact chassis of a 600cc Supersport, complemented by technologically-advanced suspension front and rear.

For 2024 the GSX-R750 takes on a few stunning new looks, including revisiting Suzuki’s classic blue and white livery in Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue. It is also offered in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or classy Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.

Key Features

  • Iconic, GSX-R aerodynamic styling with three distinctive paint and graphics schemes.
  • Fuel-injected, 750cc, 4-cylinder engine powers a balanced sportbike experience.
  • Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the power delivery.
  • Twin-spar aluminum frame and Showa Big Piston Front Fork (BPF) deliver extraordinary handling.
  • Twin Brembo Monobloc, radially mounted front brakes deliver robust stopping power.

2024 Suzuki GSX-R750

MSRP $12,999

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR650S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR650S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

DUALSPORT

DR650S – The 2024 Suzuki DR650S continues its reign as perhaps the best all-around, dual-purpose motorcycle available today. Always an outstanding performance value, every DR650S is quality built and features a dependable, 644cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine mounted in a robust steel, semi-double cradle frame.

A variety of riders will enjoy this motorcycle, thanks to a seat height that may be significantly reduced (using the optional Low Side Stand Kit from Suzuki Genuine Accessories). Strong aluminum, spoke-style rims carrying tires that can manage both the street and dirt are fitted so riders can tackle pavement or trails with ease.

With Solid Black and Iron Gray paint and contrasting black and orange graphics, or bright Solid Special White #2 bodywork that features distinctive blue and black graphics, the DR650S looks great when ridden on any surface. Whatever adventure a rider undertakes, the 2024 Suzuki DR650S is a willing and eager partner.

Key Features: 

  • Convenient push-button electric starting easily gets the torque-rich, 644cc, air- and oil-cooled, 4-stroke thumper ready for fun.
  • The smooth-shifting transmission with easy-pull clutch makes it easy to ride the DR650S on any kind of road.
  • Built around cast and tubular parts precision welded together, the strong steel frame has high-quality suspension and brake components for trouble-free riding.
  • Engineered into the suspension is the ability to lower the seat height (Suzuki dealers can perform using an accessory low side stand kit).

2024 Suzuki DR650S

MSRP $7,099

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR-Z400S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR-Z400S. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

DR-Z400S – The 2024 DR-Z400S is the latest evolution of the motorcycle that built the foundation of the modern DualSport movement. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2024, the DR-Z400S extends the on- and off-road legacy only Suzuki can provide.

Riders remain impressed with the torque from the 398cc, liquid-cooled powerplant, as well as the crisp-handling, adjustable suspension. This ultra-reliable bike is completely street-legal, with an electric start, and easy-to-read instrument cluster. Fully black, aluminum EXCEL rims laced with bright stainless-steel spokes are set up to accept rim locks if the rider chooses to mount more focused DualSport rubber.

True to its Suzuki off-road heritage, the 2024 DR-Z400S is available in stunning Champion Yellow bodywork enhanced with new blue and silver graphics, or gray and silver graphics on classy Solid Black bodywork making the DR-Z400S stand out everywhere.

Key Features: 

  • Compact, liquid-cooled, 398cc, single-cylinder engine produces widespread power
  • Electric starting and street-legal lighting
  • Narrow and strong chrome-moly frame
  • Fully adjustable, off-road capable suspension
  • Black, spoke-style wheels with 21- and 18-inch aluminum rims

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400S

MSRP $7,199

Click Here for More Details

 

 

Two examples of Suzuki's 2024-model DR-Z400SM. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Two examples of Suzuki’s 2024-model DR-Z400SM. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

SUPERMOTO

DR-Z400SM – Suzuki’s 2024 SuperMoto variant, the DR-Z400SM, is based on the legendary DR-Z400S. Combining SuperMoto styling and features in a proven, narrow, lithe, and street-legal package. This bike brings off-road soul and sportbike riding fun to paved roads. The DR-Z400SM is just as at home on a twisty forest road, as it is on tight canyon curves, or slicing through commuter traffic around town.

Its 398cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine provides strong low-rpm torque and crisp throttle response for any of these rides. Key differences between the DR-Z400SM and the DR-Z400S are the inverted front fork, wide spoke-style 17-inch wheels, and 300mm diameter floating front brake rotor. The inverted fork contributes to less unsprung weight and improved overall on-road handling, while the large front brake and wider rims with high-grip tires help offer an exhilarating sportbike style riding experience.

Key Features: 

  • Suzuki’s DR-Z400SM SuperMoto model, is based on the proven DR-Z400S, combining  SuperMoto style and features in a narrow, lightweight, street-legal package.
  • Versatile and strong, 398cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, dry-sump engine has push-button starting.
  • The DR-Z400SM boasts fully adjustable MX-style suspension plus high-grip sportbike tires on strong spoke wheels featuring anodized, aluminum Excel rims.
  • The new Grand Blue and Solid Black or the dramatic Solid Black bodywork with angular graphics complement the motorcycle’s styling.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400SM

MSRP $7,899

Click Here for More Details

Like all Suzuki motorcycles, these 2024 models may be enhanced with a variety of Suzuki Genuine Accessories, specifically designed for each model, and aimed at enhancing the riding and ownership experience. For more information on these and all Suzuki motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, scooters, and accessories, please click to suzukicycles.com.

Note: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering.

 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by Suzuki Motor USA, LLC:

Suzuki RM-Z Motocross Motorcycles & Select Youth Products Launch for 2024

Brea, CA (June 21, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is pleased to introduce its 2024 RM-Z motocross models and select youth motorcycle and ATV products. Coming off a resurgent 2023 Supercross season, Suzuki’s RM-Z450 and RM-Z250 remain a weapon of choice for riders at all levels.

Delivering amateur and pro racers a solid combination of performance, value, handling, and attractive styling, the RM-Z line continues to be a viable motocross option for 2024 and represents, perhaps the industry’s strongest value proposition. And with the return of the RM Army Edition, RM-Z riders will have even more to look forward to.

Suzuki’s recreational youth motorcycles – the proven DR-Z125L and DR-Z50 continue providing an excellent entry point and riding skills learning path for young riders.

Suzuki’s QuadSport youth ATV- the QuadSport Z50 offers families with young riders a great route to discover the sport, capture treasured memories, and extend their kids’ riding skills. With thoughtful features that help deliver fun for young riders, and peace of mind for parents, the QuadSport Z50 is a great entry into off-road riding.

MOTOCROSS

RM-Z450– Legendary rider Ken Roczen proved the RM-Z450 remains the champion’s choice. The RM-Z450’s sleek, race-ready appearance, strong engine, and nimble chassis provide the effective power and precise handling required to continue Suzuki’s race-winning legacy. It is no surprise Roczen finished the just-concluded AMA Supercross season tied for third in the championship with an event win and multiple podium finishes.

The RM-Z450 epitomizes Suzuki’s Winning Balance philosophy of “RUN, TURN, and STOP” with strong brakes helping provide superb stopping power, a wide spread of engine muscle with high peak power; and a strong, light, and agile chassis allowing the RM-Z450 to remain the class standard for cornering performance.

Tuning the electronic fuel injection and ignition systems for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system; included with each 2024 RM-Z450.

Key Features

  • Fuel-injected engine delivers great throttle response delivering high peak power.
  • Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.
  • Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
  • Light, aluminum frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.
  • Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.
  • Coil spring fork provides impressive performance and easy tuning.
  • Showa® BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings deliver remarkable damping response.
  • Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.
  • Large 270mm front brake rotor helps increase stopping power and feel.
  • Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it, and from snagging on rider’s boots.
  • Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.
  • Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through an easy-to-use smartphone application.
  • Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450

MSRP $9,199

Click Here for More Details

 

RM ARMY EDITION 

The RM Army Edition is back for 2024.  This kit is comprised of a special set of components making 2024 RM-Zs even more race-ready, right out of the gate.

New for 2024, the RM Army Edition kit includes an exclusive full-system exhaust from Pro Circuit. The new system has a Stainless-Steel Head Pipe, a Titanium Silencer Shell, and a Carbon Fiber End Cap wrapped with a custom RM Army Edition decal. Also included is a fresh, new RM Army graphics package from Throttle Syndicate further enhancing the RM-Z’s styling.

All 2024 model RM-Z250’s and RM-Z450’s purchased through September 30th, 2023, will include an RM Army Edition Kit free of charge. RM Army Edition kits will be shipped directly to the selling Suzuki dealer after a rider purchases a new 2024 RM-Z motocross model. Combining this kit with the adjustability that Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 provides, the RM-Z reinforces itself even more as a worthy competitor.

A 2024-model Suzuki RM Army Edition RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM Army Edition RM-Z450. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

RM-Z250 – The 2024 RM-Z250 remains the choice of wise professionals and privateers everywhere, as this agile bike mirrors the sleek, race-ready RM-Z450 with a flexible engine and responsive chassis producing exceptional performance. Using Suzuki’s “RUN, TURN, and STOP” philosophy, factory engineers have made the RM-Z250 a formidable competitor for 2024.

Fed by a dual injector EFI system, a center-port cylinder head, and an AMA-compliant exhaust system, the RM-Z250’s four-stroke, four-valve engine delivers strong, usable power through the entire rev range.

The RM-Z250 has an enduring reputation as the best-handling 250 on the track. The twin-spar aluminum frame and hydro-formed swingarm carry a KYB suspension using a coil spring fork and a rear shock with four-way damping force adjustment. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork help the rider maneuver the RM-Z250 as it carves up the racetrack.

Tuning the RM-Z250’s fuel injection and ignition for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system. Suzuki’s Winning Balance is on display with the 2024 RM-Z250 as it sets its own high standard for cornering performance.

Key Features

  • Dual-injected engine delivers excellent throttle response and peak power.
  • KYB coil spring fork and shock have efficient spring rates and damping force settings.
  • Aggressive Suzuki race styling and race-ready ergonomics
  • Center-port cylinder head increases output and throttle response.
  • Dual fuel injector system boosts high rpm power.
  • Traction management system helps the bike hook up.
  • Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
  • Coil spring KYB fork provides outstanding performance and easy tuning.
  • KYB rear shock and linkage deliver remarkable smoothness.
  • Race-ready, high-grip Dunlop MX33 tires
  • Large-diameter front brake helps increase stopping power and feel.
  • Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.
  • Aggressive styling from the championship caliber RM-Z450
  • Narrow cockpit helps the rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.
  • Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through the easy-to-use smartphone application.
  • Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

 

A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z250. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki RM-Z250. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki RM-Z250

MSRP $8,099

Click Here for More Details

 

YOUTH MOTORCYCLES

DR-Z125L – Well suited for young and smaller-stature riders, the 2024 DR-Z125L can take on the dirt like a larger, more expensive bike. Large-diameter 19-inch front and 16-inch rear tires, as well as a front disc brake, help deliver big bike performance to a size-appropriate motorcycle.

The DR-Z125L is the perfect platform to build essential riding skills, thanks to a manual clutch and a five-speed transmission helping young riders develop their skills as they advance within the sport. Styled to mirror Suzuki’s championship-winning RM-Z motocrossers, this DR-Z continues with proven engineering, while the sharp handling and ample low-end and mid-range power provide the get-up-and-go that defines Suzuki off-road bikes.

Key Features

  • Compact and dependable, 124cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder engine.
  • Smooth-shifting transmission with easy-pull clutch.
  • Strong steel frame and beam-style swingarm.
  • Telescopic forks and link-type rear suspension.
  • Champion-approved RM-Z styling graphics.

 

A 2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

2024 Suzuki DR-Z125L

MSRP $3,599

Click Here for More Details

 

DR-Z50 – The 2024 Suzuki DR-Z50 is the ideal way to introduce young, beginning riders to motorcycling. The four-stroke powered DR-Z50 wraps big bike looks around a platform developed to keep supervising adults in control of the ride while their rider begins to learn the sport.

This compact, Suzuki-built mini-bike brings ease and convenience to riders just getting started on two wheels. With an automatic clutch and three-speed transmission, easy-to-use electric starting, and a low 22-inch seat height, the race-styled DR-Z50 helps build confidence and ability for young, supervised riders. The proven, easy-to-maintain 49cc engine delivers smooth, controllable power. Adult supervisors may adjust the engine’s power level, so young riders learn riding skills at a proper and comfortable learning pace.

This motorcycle can be in the family for years, thanks to its stout construction and sturdy 10-inch wheels; the Suzuki DR-Z50 mixes a reliable engine with quality running gear built and engineered to last. The DR-Z50 is the perfect way to have your youngest in the family involved in motorcycling!

Key Features 

  • Reliable, easy-to-control 49cc, 4-stroke engine
  • Smooth-shifting 3-speed transmission with automatic clutch
  • Push-button electric starting with a backup kick starter
  • Keyed ignition and power limiter for supervising adult control
  • Champion-approved RM-Z-inspired race styling and graphics

 

A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024-model Suzuki DR-Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z50

MSRP $2,579

Click Here for More Details

 

YOUTH ATV

QuadSport Z50 – The 2024 QuadSport Z50 is designed for adult-supervised riders aged six and older and includes features that help make learning to ride safe and fun. With a focus on safety and adult control, this quad features a throttle limiter to help control engine output, a tether switch to remotely shut off the ignition, and a keyed main switch that helps prevent unauthorized use.

Adjustable hand controls, an automatic transmission, full floorboards, and a low seat height make sure beginning riders enjoy active convenience and control while learning. To sum it up, the QuadSport Z50 is filled with quality, safety, and style, making it the perfect choice for younger adventurers!

Key Features: 

  • Designed for adult-supervised riders ages 6 and older
  • Keyed ignition and remote, tether-type engine stop switch
  • Adjustable throttle limiter controls speed
  • Easy electric starting, plus backup recoil starter
  • Smooth-running CVT automatic transmission

 

A 2024 Suzuki QuadSport Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024 Suzuki QuadSport Z50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

 

*ATVs are not toys. Serious injury or death can result from improper use of ATVs. Your youngster’s safety will depend on you taking a “Safety First” approach to ATV riding. The QuadSport Z50 may be used by those aged six and older. Even though your child may be the right age, you need to be sure that he or she has the size, strength, skills, and judgment to operate the ATV safely. ATV riders can call the SVIA at 1-800-852-5344 and we’ll even pay for the training. Along with concerned conservationists everywhere, Suzuki urges you to Tread Lightly! ® on public and private land.

American Matsudaira Racing FIM Speedway World Championship SGP4 Event

Kensei Matsudaira (74) on his victory lap after winning the 2022 AMA Speedway Youth 150 National Championship. Photo by Vladimir Kruk, courtesy Evike.com.
Kensei Matsudaira (74) on his victory lap after winning the 2022 AMA Speedway Youth 150 National Championship. Photo by Vladimir Kruk, courtesy Evike.com.

American Kensei Matsudaira to Represent USA at FIM Speedway World Championship SGP4 Race at Malilla, Sweden

Japanese-American road racer Kensei Matsudaira will make his international speedway racing debut on July 15, 2023 at the FIM Speedway GP of Sweden – Malilla. Kensei, age 12, was selected to represent the US in the FIM Speedway World Championship in the launch of the SGP4 youth category on a new entry-level world championship bike for 11 to 13 year old racers. 18 riders from around the world have been invited to race in this special one-time event at one of World Speedway’s most famous venues.

“I’ve always wanted to race speedway in Europe, so I’m very excited to have this opportunity to race at a FIM Speedway World Championship race,” Kensei said. “I’m proud to represent the US and American speedway, and hoping to do as well as I can to make Team USA Speedway proud.”

Team USA Speedway manager Steve Evans added, “Kensei is an outstanding motorcyclist in so many disciplines. He has more speedway experience and success than anyone else in his age group and is the current 150cc Youth National Champion. The new SGP4 category is huge for the sport and American Speedway and might be just what we need to help elevate the USA back to the top. We wish Kensei well and know with his international racing experience he will make the most of this fantastic opportunity.”

Kensei is an accomplished international road racer but is also well accomplished in speedway which he has been racing since the age of 4. After dozens of race wins including an undefeated season in the pee wee class, Kensei moved up to the Junior Speedway 150cc class at age 7 and immediately became a national title contender. In 2022 Kensei became the AMA Speedway Youth 150 National Champion.

In road racing, Kensei is a three-time MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul Champion, taking the 110cc and 160cc crowns in 2021 and the Ohvale GP-2 190cc crown in 2022. He is the first FIM MiniGP World Series North America champion, and has also been racing at the national level in Spain since 2019. He is the 2022 RFME Copa de España de MiniVelocidad vice champion in the Spanish national Moto5 category. Kensei is currently racing full time in Spain in the 2023 RFME ESBK (Campeonato de España de Superbike) Moto4 championship where he sits 8th in points with one podium finish so far this season.

Kensei and his family would like to thank all of their sponsors for their support this year:

Nox#27 Racing Team, Evike.com, Evike Europe, HJC Helmets, Dave Designs, Almassera El Teular, OrangeCat Racing, Iconic Motorbikes, Bison Track, Moto Tecnica, Karen E. Ott Photography, BSP Racing, American Racing Team & Academy, The Starting Grid, TJ Corse, VNM Sport, NLAB Studio, California Superbike School, MadLabs Minimoto, Hans King, 73 Moto Parts, D.I.D Chain, Galfer USA, Bickle Racing, Yoshimura R&D, Vortex Racing, Suspension Matters, Moto Survival School, Live 100 Moto, TechSpec, Landers Racing, Boyko Racing, Mini Moto Alliance

BMW Produces One Millionth GS With Boxer Engine

The one millionth BMW GS model with a Boxer engine. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.
The one millionth BMW GS model with a boxer engine - an R 1250 GS. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.

BMW Motorrad celebrates one millionth GS with boxer engine.

World premiere of the new BMW R 1300 GS on 28 September 2023 at BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin.

Munich/Berlin. Today, on 21 June 2023, the 1,000,000th GS equipped with a boxer engine rolled off the production line at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin-Spandau – a BMW R 1250 GS.

BMW motorcycles have been manufactured in Berlin since 1969 and the BMW Motorrad GS models with boxer engines since 1980. Elemental, authentic motorcycles, which possess incomparable all-round qualities have spurred on countless motorbike enthusiasts on trips to distant countries, spectacular adventure trips and expeditions to the remotest regions of our planet over the past decades. The latest edition of the now legendary BMW GS with boxer engine – the R 1300 GS – will be presented on 28 September 2023 at the grand opening of the new BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin.

The BMW GS with boxer engine: The legendary combination of road, off-road and long-haul expertise.

Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “With the R 80 G/S and its unique combination of on-road and off-road suitability, everyday qualities and long-distance touring abilities, BMW Motorrad created the new motorcycle genre of touring enduros in 1980. The BMW GS with boxer engine became an icon, which achieved global success in this segment. What is more: The BMW GS became a legend and at the same time an indispensable cornerstone in the BMW Motorrad model range. Its outstanding talents, such as dynamic riding performance, brawny off-road qualities, superior long-distance comfort and enormous robustness, have since been continuously developed by BMW Motorrad and transferred to other BMW Motorrad model series with great success. I am therefore very pleased that today, and especially in our “100 Years of BMW Motorrad” anniversary year, we are able to contribute a major milestone to the corporate history of the BMW Group with the one millionth BMW GS motorbike with a boxer engine. I am equally pleased that the unique history of BMW Motorrad models with boxer engines will soon be supplemented by an exciting chapter with numerous innovations with the new R 1300 GS.”

The one millionth BMW GS with a boxer engine is an R 1250 GS in Triple Black Style and was duly celebrated today, 21 June 2023, during a works meeting at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin-Spandau.

The new BMW R 1300 GS: Premiere at the opening ceremony of BMW Motorrad Welt Berlin on 28 September 2023.

The celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad are continuing at pace. After the big party at the BMW Motorrad Days, where thousands of motorcycle fans from all over the world are expected from 7 to 9 July 2023, BMW Motorrad Welt will officially open its doors on 28 September. In the new “heart of the brand” – located directly next to the BMW Motorrad plant site in Berlin-Spandau – the eagerly awaited new BMW R 1300 GS will be presented at an exclusive opening event. Interested fans will have the opportunity to follow the opening ceremony via livestream on the BMW Group and BMW Motorrad social media channels. From 30 September 2023, BMW Motorrad Welt in Berlin will then be open to all visitors.

The BMW R 80 G/S: Initial spark for a new motorcycle segment.

In autumn 1980 BMW Motorrad presented the R 80 G/S, a motorcycle which combined two very special areas of riding for the first time: Off-road and on-road. What began with 798 cubic centimetres of displacement and 50 hp has developed over more than four decades into a fascinating high-tech touring enduro of the calibre of the current BMW R 1250 GS. Complemented by state-of-the-art chassis technology and electronic control systems such as ABS, traction control, engine drag torque control, semi-active suspension and a great deal more. It is also thanks to this ongoing and consistent advancement that the BMW GS models with boxer engine have advanced to become the most sought-after touring enduros in the world to this day.

MotoAmerica: Gagne Holds Superbike Championship Lead Heading To “The Ridge”

Jake Gagne (1) will be trying to extend his win streak at Ridge Motorsports Park this coming weekend. The defending MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion has won the past four races in Washington State. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Jake Gagne (1), as seen earlier this season. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Will Anyone Stop Gagne’s Win Streak At Ridge Motorsports Park?

Gagne Riding A Four-Race Win Streak At The Racetrack In Washington State
 

IRVINE, CA (June 21, 2023) – For a fourth straight year, the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship visits the Pacific Northwest with round four of the 2023 championship slated for Ridge Motorsports Park, June 23-25. And for a fourth straight year, Yamaha will be attempting to keep its perfect win streak alive at the tight and twisty circuit on the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington.

For the streak to be broken, someone is going to have to figure out how to beat the combination of Jake Gagne and his Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing YZF-R1 with the pair riding a four-race win streak at “the Ridge.” But, based on the fact that both BMW and Ducati have won half of the six races held thus far in 2023, there’s obviously a chance that could happen.

So, who won the two races that Gagne didn’t win at Ridge Motorsports Park? Well, that would be Cameron Beaubier, the victor in the inaugural two MotoAmerica Superbike races at the Ridge in 2020 and the winner of two of the six races held thus far in this year’s title chase. And Beaubier won those two races as Gagne’s teammate on a Yamaha YZF-R1 in 2020. All that translates to the fact that Yamaha has won all six of the Superbike races held at Ridge Motorsports Park.

Three riders will go to Washington with Medallia Superbike wins in 2023: Gagne, Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW’s Beaubier and Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin. And only 21 points separate those three atop the championship point standings.

Heading the title chase is two-time defending Medallia Superbike Champion Gagne with his three wins and two additional podiums in his pocket. Gagne also arrives in the Pacific Northwest happy to see Wisconsin and Road America in his rear-view mirror. Gagne went into the Road America round with a 21-point lead over Beaubier after the first two rounds and he was fortunate to leave Wisconsin still with a 12-point lead over the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion.

Gagne’s Yamaha team had a miserable weekend in Wisconsin with engine failures and a lack of top speed momentarily keeping his run for a third straight title in check. Gagne failed to finish race one at Road America, but he he salvaged his weekend with a third-place finish in race two.

Race one at Road America was won by Beaubier, but his Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW M1000 RR also suffered a mechanical failure in race two that prevented him from keeping the points lead he’d inherited the day before with Gagne’s failure to finish. Thus, the top two in the title chase come to the state of Washington separated by just 12 points.

The man who gained the most at Road America was Herrin with the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion having left Wisconsin with his first win of the year, which came a day after his third-place finish in race one. Herrin starts his weekend at Ridge Motorsports Park nine points behind Beaubier and 21 behind Gagne.

Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz is fourth in the point standings, and he also had an off weekend at Road America with eighth- and sixth-place finishes in the two Medallia Superbike races. The South African is nine points behind Herrin and nine points ahead of Beaubier’s Tytlers Cycle Racing teammate PJ Jacobsen.

Like Herrin, Jacobsen is also coming off a great weekend in Wisconsin with the New Yorker carding a pair of second-place finishes in what was easily his best weekend in the Medallia Superbike class.

Sixth in the title chase heading to Washington is Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante. Escalante was a fighting fourth in race one at Road America but had some issues in race two and dropped four places to finish eighth.

Although Cameron Petersen’s weekend in Wisconsin wasn’t stellar by normal standards, it could have been a lot worse. Petersen came into the Road America round with an injured right wrist suffered in a testing crash the week prior but was able to bravely continue, and he finished fifth and fourth in the two races. Still, the South African has a lot of work to do to try and claw his way back into championship contention as he trails teammate Gagne by 54 points.

Corey Alexander, the third of the Tytlers Cycle Racing teamsters, is eighth in the title chase, six points adrift of Petersen and two ahead of the now-retired Toni Elias, who will be replaced for the Ridge round by journeyman racer Taylor Knapp. Knapp is currently sixth in the Steel Commander Stock 1000 Championship, but Ridge Motorsports Park isn’t a round of that championship so he will be able to focus his efforts on the Medallia Superbike class.

Aftercare Scheibe Racing’s Ashton Yates rounds out the top 10 in the Medallia Superbike Championship heading to Ridge Motorsports Park.

Pre-Ridge Superbike Notes

Two-time MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion Jake Gagne is the winningest rider in the short three-year (six-race) history of MotoAmerica holding a round of its championship at Ridge Motorsports Park. Gagne has won four of the six races with Cameron Beaubier winning the first two races in 2020.

Last year, Gagne started from pole position and won both races, besting his teammate Cameron Petersen and Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci in race one and Petrucci and Petersen in race two.

Gagne is also the lap record holder at Ridge Motorsports Park with the Colorado resident lapping at 1:39.145 in final qualifying last year to break his own record of 1:39.568 from 2021.

Portions of the 16-turn, 2.47-mile Ridge Motorsports Park circuit have undergone re-paving since MotoAmerica visited the track a year ago and that usually results in lap records across all classes. In addition, track owners have also added curbing to the track and have erected new grandstands for spectator viewing.

After winning both Medallia Superbike races a year ago, Jake Gagne moved to within 11 points of then championship leader Danilo Petrucci. This year, Gagne arrives in Washington with a 12-point lead over Cameron Beaubier, who is back in the MotoAmerica series after two years competing in the Moto2 World Championship.

With his two wins thus far in the 2023 Superbike Championship, Beaubier continues to gain ground on his former teammate Josh Hayes on the all-time AMA Superbike win list. Australian Mat Mladin tops the list with his 81 Superbike victories with Hayes second on 61 wins. Beaubier, however, is on the move with 56 victories in AMA Superbike racing.

With his three wins in 2023, Jake Gagne is now tied for fourth on the all-time Superbike win list with Miguel Duhamel and Toni Elias, with the latter announcing his retirement following the Road America round. Those three have 32 Superbike victories.

Hayes, meanwhile, continues to chase the all-time AMA road race win record as he is currently tied with Miguel Duhamel with 86 wins across all classes. Hayes will be aboard his Squid Hunter Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 in the two Supersport races at Ridge Motorsports Park. Beaubier, meanwhile, lurks in fourth on the all-time list with 77 wins – nine behind Duhamel and Hayes.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

Pipe Dreams Podcast (And Video): E8 – Kyle Wyman, The Godfather Of Bagger Racing

Kyle Wyman (33). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Kyle Wyman (33), as seen at Daytona in 2023. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Editorial Note: To listen to the podcast go HERE and to watch the video of the podcast scroll down.

Episode 8: Kyle Wyman

The Godfather of Bagger Racing

June 21st, 2023 – MotoAmerica / American Flat Track Racers Corey Alexander and James Rispoli are pleased to release Episode 8 of their Pipe Dreams Podcast featuring [2021] King Of The Baggers Champion, MotoAmerica Team Owner, and factory Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle pilot Kyle Wyman.

Kyle has spent the entirety of his career doing whatever he can just to make it to the racetrack, riding whatever bike he could to yield him the best result and at times make him the most marketable to potential sponsors. After conquering the business of racing – out of a pickup truck to owning his own semi hauler and staffing full-time employees, Kyle put it all aside to join the factory Harley-Davidson race team to ride a bagger. Though an early adopter of the bagger vision, his decision would pay off and over the course of the last few years bagger racing has exploded worldwide.

We were able to sit with Kyle and discuss the variety of hurdles he faced throughout his career, from family to injuries and the struggles of maxing out credit cards to make it to the next round. We hope you enjoy learning about the guy behind the bagger! Follow Kyle on social media via @kylewyman or @kwr_harley to see more.

Listen Now

Available on all major podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, the Eighth full episode with Kyle launches today. Video of the episode can be viewed on Spotify and YouTube.

About Pipe Dreams Podcast:

Pipe Dreams Podcast launched in 2023 by MotoAmerica and American Flat Track riders Corey Alexander and James Rispoli in an effort to share the stories of fellow racers and motorsport professionals around the world. The podcast releases twice per month for streaming on all major platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Youtube. Production and editing is curated by videographer Sam Thurman. Follow @pipedreams_pod on social media or visit https://anchor.fm/pipe-dreams to listen now.

 

WorldSBK: Bautista Tests Ducati MotoGP Bike At Misano

Alvaro Bautista (19) testing a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Alvaro Bautista (19) testing a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano. Photo courtesy Ducati.

Alvaro Bautista’s test with the Ducati Desmosedici GP concluded at Misano.

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli was the stage of Alvaro Bautista’s long-awaited MotoGP test. It was an intense two days during which the Spanish rider got back on the Ducati Desmosedici GP after the last Grand Prix held on 18 November 2018 in Valencia.

After Day-1 aimed at regaining the feeling with both bike and tyres (50 laps completed), on Day-2 Bautista was able to ride with continuity in the morning, focusing on the set-up and also trying out different tyre solutions.

No time attack attempts were made for the Spaniard; Bautista closed the test (49 laps completed on Day-2) with a quickest time of 1’32.590, recorded on lap seven of the fourth run, on soft tyres and a track temperature of 49°.

In the afternoon the  Aruba.it Racing – Ducati rider was back on his Ducati Panigale V4R to complete a few laps and reacquaint himself with the bike he will ride on the sixth round of the 2023 WorldSBK season, scheduled at Donington (UK) from 29 June to 2 July.

 

Alvaro Bautista's (19) test on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano was very thorough. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Alvaro Bautista’s (19) test on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano was very thorough. Photo courtesy Ducati.

 

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)

“It was a good test. I had a lot of fun getting back on the Ducati Desmosedici GP and I’m satisfied with the work we did. Between the first and second day, the feeling improved, also thanks to the team and Ducati, who put me in a position to adjust the bike with some changes that helped me feel even more comfortable. We also worked to find confidence with different tyre solutions and the results were tangible. The time? It’s not important, also because I never pushed for the time: there was no reason to take risks. The future? The future is at Donington and Imola. We have two very close rounds and after this good experience I just have to think about the WorldSBK championship”.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch All The Action From Ridge Motorsports Park (Updated)

Ridge Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy of TrackTime.
Ridge Motorsports Park, in Shelton, Washington. Photo courtesy of TrackTime.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch MotoAmerica Superbikes at Ridge Motorsports Park

It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action

Everything you need to know to watch the MotoAmerica Superbikes in Washington.

 

 

MotoGP: World Championship Heading To “The Cathedral”

TT Circuit Assen. Photo courtesy Michelin.
TT Circuit Assen. Photo courtesy Michelin.

4.54km of adrenaline: strap in for the TT Circuit Assen!

The time has come to return to the Cathedral, and we don’t need to remind you: WE LOVE IT

Wednesday, 21 June 2023

This is it. The final ride before the summer break – and our visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed – and at a track where that legendary final chicane could decide it all. There’s no better place to bring the curtain down on the first half of a spectacular season than the one that’s been part of the sport since 1949, so let’s get back to where we left off for the Motul TT Assen!

On a roll

If his Tissot Sprint wins and podiums weren’t convincing enough, does taking on the reigning Champion and coming out on top get the job done? It was one of the closest ever finishes at the Sachsenring on Sunday and that was thanks to two riders: Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). Lap by lap, the two staged an instant classic and we can’t wait to see what they’ve got in the locker at Assen – with Bagnaia also having won here last year.

Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), meanwhile, is on his own roll of three MotoGP™ podiums in a row for the first time ever, just like Martin. One may not (yet?) be a win, but it’s a fine run of form as Pramac really gain some momentum. Will Assen continue that crescendo?

For Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), the run has picked back up again. And the holeshot went to the Aussie once again at the Sachsenring. A lone orange ranger at a Ducati party after a crash for teammate Brad Binder, Miller kept it on the road for another good chunk of points – and his form at Assen is fine, including that first ever MotoGP™ win. He, and Binder as he’ll dust himself off ready to race again, can’t be counted out of the fight at the front.

Back on it

It wasn’t the greatest weekend ever for Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) last time out, but it was a solid one. And the TT Circuit Assen is where he took that maiden MotoGP™ podium, so we can likely expect him right back in the fight at the front at a very different venue to the Sachsenring. Teammate Luca Marini too, with the number 10 still taking those top finishes although now looking for another real assault on the top – all the way to the finish line.

Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), meanwhile, took some good points at the Sachsenring after a crash out in Mugello and he’ll want that to prove an uptick. Miguel Oliveira (CryptoData RNF MotoGP™ Team) was the top Aprilia and back in the top ten despite his ongoing recovery, and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) is also getting back in the groove.

Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), meanwhile, is also banking those points and top tens, but can he take another step? Finally, for Augusto Fernandez (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) it’s going pretty well. He hasn’t managed to replicate that stunning top four in France yet, but he’s kept scoring and is only one of three riders to do so on every Sunday so far. He also adores Assen.

Time for a turnaround

After an impressive pre-season for Aprilia, it’s all gone a bit quiet on the frontrunning by the time we arrive at Assen. But if there’s anywhere Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) would choose to stake his claim back on the podium fight, it could well be Assen. His record at the track is exemplary and it’s where he took his first Aprilia podium too… so could it start here? Teammate Aleix Espargaro will also want to press that reset button, and his record at Assen is no slouch either. Cast your mind back to this time last year and enjoy a re-watch of THAT final chicane overtake.

At Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™, meanwhile, there are also some good memories from Assen but the Iwata marque need some form. What can bring them closer to the front? What are they working on? Questions for the next time we can “talk to Lin.” But aside from the swirling maelstrom of media talk there remain the 2021 World Champion and a multiple MotoGP™ winner on the machinery, so what can they do? For Fabio Quartararo the mission will probably start on Friday again, and getting into that Q2. And finishing ahead of Franco Morbidelli – something he hasn’t done in the last couple of races.

For Raul Fernandez (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team), however, it’s probably points. It remains a tough season with not much to show for it yet, although that arm surgery wasn’t too long ago either. Can he make a step at Assen?

Back in the saddle

We know Jonas Folger will continue subbing for Pol Espargaro at GASGAS Factory Racing Tech 3, and another reveal is the return of Iker Lecuona to Repsol Honda Team colours after the Spaniard rode in his home round at Jerez and had a pretty solid weekend, this time standing in for Joan Mir. As Alex Rins (LCR Honda Castrol) continues to recover, we also know it’ll be HRC test rider Stefan Bradl in the saddle in the Spaniard’s place.

All this is also the backdrop to a quiet run of points scoring GP finishes for Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). He’s only failed to score once this season, at COTA, somewhat interestingly where Rins won Honda’s first race for some time earlier in the year. The arrival of Lecuona and Bradl is a new benchmark for the Japanese rider.

The biggest question of all

In the pre-event press conference ahead of the German GP, Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) said he was interested to see how the weekend would go after he missed out on competing at some of his other best tracks, Termas de Rio Hondo and the Circuit of the Americas. But the answer wasn’t what he wanted. After five crashes peppered with some heroics in between, the eight-time World Champion called time on his Sachsenring weekend before the Grand Prix race. He therefore remains undefeated at the venue but looking for a lot more at the TT Circuit Assen. He has “only” won twice at the track in MotoGP™, but could that work in his favour as the pressure comes off? One of the most successful partnerships in the history of motorcycle cycling is now looking at the north face of their own Eiger – and plenty thought that would never be scaled. It has been. Can they start rebuilding from here?

Assen was on the very first calendar in 1949, and as the world’s first motorsport returns to the venue in 2023, a lot has changed. But not the sheer adoration of racing, and not the crowds that flock in. It’s going to be a rollercoaster weekend of the best kind, so strap in and let’s go racing on truly hallowed ground at the Cathedral!

SHOWTIME

Friday’s practice sessions decide the automatic entrants to Q2, before the MotoGP™ grid qualify on Saturday morning. The Tissot Sprint is set for lights out at 15:00 on Saturday as ever, and the Grand Prix gets going at 14:00 CEST!

Tissot Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT +2)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT +2)

Moto2™: Can Arbolino strike back?

Tony Arbolino’s (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) lead in the Moto2™ standings is getting smaller. After that crash in France for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), the Italian had some breathing space… but he’s not been able to beat the Spaniard since. Now it’s another new and wildly different venue, Arbolino will aim to make now the time to strike back – taking the momentum into the summer break. But can he stop Acosta?

Behind that duo, Jake Dixon (Autosolar GASGAS Aspar Team) was back on the podium in Germany to make it exactly the same rostrum, but it was quite a different race for second. The Brit was glued to the back of Arbolino late in the race, so that’s one mission accomplished. The next? Really mix it up with the two, and Assen is a venue he knows very, very well.

Are we set for another Arbolino vs Acosta classic or can Dixon or the likes of Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) get in that battle? Find out on Sunday at 12:15 (GMT +2)!

Will Öncü vs Sasaki take on Assen?

Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) did everything he needed to in Germany to keep that impressive lead going, taking third and another podium on a day where he couldn’t quite push to fight for that win. But looking at the pace of Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), the Spaniard will want to hit back at Assen.

Öncü and Sasaki almost created their own Grand Prix class in Germany, staging a tense chess match right to the flag and disappearing in a private duel to do so. Can they show that speed once again at Assen? Both are used to running at the front, but not quite that far in front. Öncü is also now a Grand Prix winner after coming so so close, so many times. With the pressure off in that regard, box ticked, he’ll be an interesting one to watch. As ever! Are the veterans now back in that groove?

Tune in for more Moto3™ on Sunday at 11:00 (GMT+2) to find out!

Brembo’s 19RCS Corsa Corta RR Wins Award

Brembo's 19 RCS Corsa Corta RR front brake master cylinder. Photo courtesy Brembo.
Brembo's 19RCS Corsa Corta RR front brake master cylinder. Photo courtesy Brembo.

Brembo wins the 2023 Red Dot Award for the 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR

THE 2022 EVOLUTION OF THE ICONIC RADIAL MASTER CYLINDER HAS BEEN AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS DISTINCTION IN THE PRODUCT DESIGN CATEGORY

Brembo has been awarded today with the 2023 Red Dot Award for its 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR- Race Replica in the Product Design category.

As one of the most important and prestigious design competitions, the Red Dot Award selects and celebrates the best creations that combine innovation with outstanding aesthetics. Winning this award further underlines the distinctive design of Brembo’s solutions and confirms the company’s unwavering commitment to bringing innovation to the mobility of tomorrow and the unparalleled capacity to combine design and performance up to top motorsport championships.

The award-winning 19RCS CORSA CORTA RR is the 2022 evolution of the company’s radial master cylinder that combines even greater performance and lightness with a sporty look, in line with SuperSport and Naked bikes for which it has been designed.

Machined from billet of Aeronautical Aluminum Alloy and finished with a hard oxidation treatment, its high level of technology is directly derived from the master cylinders used in MotoGP and SBK championships.

In all its improvements over the years, the lever has always been highly regarded by enthusiasts since it allows riders to tailor the “bite point” exactly where they want it, with an easily accessible selector on the top of the master cylinder itself.

The selector operates a cam mechanism to let the user choose between three different responsiveness settings (Normal, Sport and Race). In addition, it is equipped with the RCS (Ratio Click System), which permits to change in the brake force distribution without altering the system’s performance in terms of pure power.

The adjustment system allows the riders to achieve a complete feeling with their bike and to adapt braking performance to their riding style, weather and road conditions. Therefore, this radial master cylinder is considered the perfect choice for riders are looking for a performance upgrade and taking care of their bike’s set-up, without ever compromising its aesthetics.

The 19 RCS CORSA CORTA RR earned Brembo its second Red Dot Award, while the first was won in 2019 with the previous 19 RCS CORSA CORTA. The design quality is the common factor in these awarded products.

With around 20.000 entries per year, the Red Dot Design Award is one of the world’s largest design competitions. In 2023, projects from 60 countries were submitted and evaluated in 51 competition categories.

The Brembo 19 RCS CORSA CORTA RR has been selected by a jury of 43 international design experts who have been convening for more than 60 years to choose the year’s best designs. The prizes, which have been awarded since 1955, are presented at a special ceremony, the 2023 edition of which has been held today in Essen, Germany.

American Flat Track: Mees Carrying Momentum Into Lima Half-Mile

Jared Mees (1) at the DuQuoin Mile. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.
Jared Mees (1) at the DuQuoin Mile. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.

Daniels and Co. Attempt to Slow Mees’ Roll at Lima Half-Mile

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Following three straight Miles, Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, now shifts its gears to race four consecutive Half-Miles starting with this weekend’s Mission Lima Half-Mile presented by Indian Motorcycle and Drag Specialties at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio, on Saturday, June 24.

Reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750) comes in with all the momentum after sweeping the aforementioned Miles. He’s also fully at home at the venue with its trademark pea-gravel cushion, considering he’s not just a five-time winner of the race but also its promoter with wife Nichole.

Even with all that considered, Mees isn’t necessarily the overwhelming favorite to win this weekend; several others have a legitimate claim as well.

Even as a rookie, Mission SuperTwins points leader Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) looked like the rider to beat pretty much all day here a year ago. In the Main Event, he fought his way up from a bad start to battle for the lead before coming home in second place.

And the rider who ultimately beat Daniels was not Mees, but rather Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750). Robinson, who comes in fresh off an ultra-close runner-up result at the DuQuoin Mile, is a two-time winner of the Lima Half-Mile and driven to score his first victory of ‘23.

That’s also the case for Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 790 Duke), another two-time winner of the prestigious event. Bauman was as strong as he’s been all season this past weekend and is now primed to capitalize as the season shifts to some tracks well aligned with his strengths.

JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) have all had their moments this season and look to add some more this weekend as the trio headline an extended list of additional podium contenders.

Another rider to keep tabs on is the returning Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), who won the Mission Production Twins race aboard the Royal Enfield here in 2021.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

The hard-won points advantage of defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champ Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) took something of a battering during the recent run of Miles. This didn’t come entirely unexpectedly, and despite the dip, he still managed to weather the storm and continues to stand atop the championship standings.

Now he’s poised to strike back. A year ago, the foundations of Kopp’s championship campaign were built on his Half-Mile prowess, reeling in five HM victories in eight attempts. Included in that list of wins was a blowout performance at the Lima Half-Mile, in which he shook free from the pack on the race’s opening lap and never looked back.

The riders who joined him on the podium that night will look to make it more of a contest this time around, as both come into the weekend considerably more experienced and in stellar form.

Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) is just nine points behind Kopp on the strength of five consecutive podiums, four of which runner-ups. And he’s the opposite of satisfied by that impressive stat considering he’s still seeking his first Progressive AFT victory after multiple near-misses.

Even with Kopp’s one-sided victory, the rider who turned the most heads at Lima a year ago was arguably Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), who finished in second while making his series’ debut. The Aussie is a class full-timer now and quickly making his presence felt, notching up a pair of race wins already in ‘23.

The rest of the usual suspects should factor up front again this weekend, including the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R).

While a bit quiet at the last two rounds, 1st Impressions Husqvarna teammates Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) might just make more noise this weekend. Cose managed to win a Mission Production Twins race and podium in Parts Unlimited AFT Singles at Lima on a single evening back in ‘19, while Ott finished inside the top five here just last year.

And don’t rule out a huge night for Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F), who was victorious at Lima in both 2018 and 2019.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at the track on Saturday as well, including numerous vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and extensive motorcycle parking.

Don’t miss your last chance to save $10 per ticket before the sale ends and prices return to normal on Wednesday, June 21. Act fast to get General Admission Bleacher tickets for just $30 (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult GA ticket). Upgraded options include Reserved Grandstand and Premier Reserved Grandstand tickets along with VIP ticket add-ons.

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.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/lima-half-mile-58771 to reserve your seats today.

Gates will open for fans at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 6:40 p.m. ET (3:40 p.m. PT).

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.

FOX Sports coverage of the Mission Lima Half-Mile presented by Indian Motorcycle and Drag Specialties, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, July 2, at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 p.m. PT).

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

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