WorldSBK: A Preview Of The Season-Opener At Phillip Island

David Swarts

-

February 16, 2024

0

WorldSBK: A Preview Of The Season-Opener At Phillip Island

Countdown to Round 1: WorldSBK heads to Phillip Island

What to look out for in Phillip Island

The WorldSBK grid will have a final opportunity to fine-tune their setups before the season opener with a single day of testing scheduled at Phillip Island on Tuesday.
Ducati’s Nicolo Bulega and BMW’s Toprak Razgatlioglu, currently the fastest in pre-season tests, will tackle the Australian circuit with their new bikes.
Alvaro Bautista, discreet during pre-season as he adapts to new weight regulations, will focus on readiness for the opening round of the season.

Grid transformations and new horizons

The 2024 WorldSBK grid sees major changes, with only four teams unchanged from last year.

Toprak Razgatlioglu departed from Yamaha to join the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, where he teams up with Michael van der Mark. Jonathan Rea ended his longstanding partnership with Kawasaki to join Pata Prometeon Yamaha alongside Andrea Locatelli, bringing a fresh dynamic to the grid.

Nicolo Bulega‘s promotion to the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team, partnering with Alvaro Bautista, came after an impressive 2023 WorldSSP campaign which saw him clinch the title. Axel Bassani stepped up to the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK after Rea‘s departure, transitioning from Ducati. Out of the five factory teams in 2023, only Team HRC have kept the same line-up as last year, aligning Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge.

Additionally, Sam Lowes and Andrea Iannone made their much-anticipated debut in WorldSBK with Elf Marc VDS Racing Team and Team GoEleven respectively. With these seismic shifts in the WorldSBK grid, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive season.

Navigating 2024 new regulations

In 2024, significant rule changes are in effect. Riders below a reference weight must add ballast to their bikes. A fuel capacity limit of 21 litres is now enforced, and fuel flow regulations are under scrutiny, with some bikes collecting data this season. There’s also been a change with RPM limits. Manufacturers will start 2024 how they ended 2023 – except Ducati, who have their original 2023 limit back

Download 2024 Regulations

Pre-season insights

The Official Test at Phillip Island serves as a crucial platform for teams and riders to assess their readiness for the season ahead, as pre-season testing has already provided insights, setting the stage for Round 1.

Toprak Razgatlioglu‘s move to BMW proves promising, with a strong pace and significant improvements noted. Jonathan Rea impresses despite lacking outright speed, showcasing consistent performance during testing. Meanwhile, Alvaro Bautista‘s adaptation struggles and injury setbacks contrast with Nicolo Bulega‘s standout performances for Ducati

More on worldsbk.com

Download the Official Test & Round Schedule

WorldSBK | KEY STAT

18 Phillip Island is the home for thrilling finishes: no less than 18 races here were decided by less than 0.1 seconds.

Download Stats Pack

Action from a previous World Supersport race at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.

WorldSSP grid gears up for Season Opener with final pre-season test

What to look out for in Phillip Island

As the final pre-season test approaches before the kickoff of the 2024 season, contenders in the WorldSSP category are gearing up for the Official Test which will take place on Monday.
Stefano Manzi and Marcel Schroetter are determined to secure the Championship they missed last season, while Can Oncu is determined to reclaim his position at the top of the grid.
Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team, the reigning champions of WorldSSP, have enlisted Adrian Huertas to replace Nicolo Bulega, aiming to defend their title.

Grid updates

Changes are abound on the WorldSSP grid for the upcoming season. Adrian Huertas steps into the spotlight, taking Nicolo Bulega’s place at the Aruba.it WorldSSP Racing Team, while Valentin Debise is set to represent the Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team.

Stefano Manzi, the 2023 runner-up, continues his journey with the Pata Yamaha Ten Kate outfit, now joined by Glenn van Straalen. Marcel Schroetter, who secured third place in last season’s standings, remains with the MV Agusta Reparto Corse outfit, alongside Bahattin Sofuoglu. Despite facing challenges in the 2023 season, Can Oncu returns for his fifth campaign with the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing outfit. Meanwhile, Yari Montella, a podium finisher in 2023, remains committed to the Barni Spark Racing Team.

Making a return to WorldSSP are Lorenzo Baldassarri (ORELAC Racing VERDNATURA) and Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha), eager to build on their past successes.

Exciting debuts await at Phillip Island, with new riders and teams entering the WorldSSP arena. Niccolo Antonelli joins the Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team, while Triumph expands its presence with a second team in the series, WRP-RT Motorsport by SKM-Triumph, featuring Jorge Navarro and John McPhee.

New regulations

In 2024, WorldSSP undergoes significant scheduling changes. Notably, the grids for Race 2 will now be determined by the fastest laps recorded in Race 1 for the top nine contenders, emphasizing outstanding performances. The Tissot Superpole sessions take place on Friday, after a Free Practice session in the morning. Alongside these changes, the SBK Commission introduces sustainable fuel for both the WorldSBK and WorldSSP categories, commencing from the 2024 season, with a mandatory minimum of 40% sustainable fuel content.

Pre-season insights

During the pre-season tests at Jerez and Portimao, WorldSSP riders exhibited their skills and readiness for the upcoming season. Marcel Schroetter led the pack at Jerez, with Stefano Manzi close behind. Can Oncu showed promising performance. At Portimao, Adrian Huertas maintained his dominance, topping the charts ahead of Niccolo Antonelli.

More on worldsbk.com

MotoAmerica: Rahal Ducati Moto Happy With First Pre-Season Test

David Swarts

-

February 16, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Rahal Ducati Moto Happy With First Pre-Season Test

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO COMPLETE SUCCESSFUL FIRST TEST

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (02.15.2024) -The recently established Rahal Ducati Moto team successfully concluded its inaugural three-day testing session at Jennings GP in Hamilton County, Florida.

Despite the challenging weather conditions in the lead-up to the test, team riders PJ Jacobsen, Kayla Yaakov, and Corey Alexander were greeted by clear skies on Tuesday morning, providing a welcome respite from the earlier heavy rain. The team, determined to make the most of the favorable weather, diligently assembled three brand-new Ducati Panigale V2s, which had not yet experienced any track time. The riders, along with their newly-formed crews, worked closely to establish a comfortable and effective rapport with their new bikes, addressing and resolving any minor issues that surfaced during the test.

The riders covered an impressive number of laps over the three days, with PJ clocking a fastest time of 1:15.4s, Kayla – 1:15.6s, and Corey – 1:16.2s. They leave the Jennings track with a good base ahead of their maiden race with the RDM team in just three weeks time, in Daytona Beach, FL.

PJ Jacobsen:

“It’s been a good first test, just getting the bikes on track and getting to know everyone, it’s a steady building process, and it has gone really well. The first day I wasn’t too comfortable so I worked with all the crew and the feeling improved as the test progressed. I’m now feeling a lot happier and we just have to keep chipping away to find the best set up for Daytona.”

Kayla Yaakov:

“I’ve really enjoyed the first test and getting to know the team that Ben and Graham have assembled. Everyone worked really well together and starting off in this way is very important ahead of the season. They did a great job of building three bikes overnight and reacting to all the issues that come up when building new bikes! I feel we improved steadily as the test progressed, there were a few small things here and there, but we’ve worked through them together which is key, and that’s why we’re here testing. The final day was super positive, and we were able to find a competitive base setting. I am very happy with what we were able to learn and achieve this week, and I have full confidence that this team can deliver some awesome results this season!”

Corey Alexander:

“The most important thing was getting all the team together. This isn’t just a normal ‘new team’ but a completely new team of people, bikes, everything! We worked through the kinks that you expect to find when rolling out new bikes that have never been on track and overall, considering where we were a week ago, we’re in a good place for sure! I’m a slow burner and take my time to find my groove, so having the three days has been great to get to a place that I’m comfortable with ahead of Daytona.”

Ben Spies, Rahal Ducati Moto Team Principal:

“I’m extremely happy with how the first test went. Obviously it was a little nerve wracking for the first time working all together with new mechanics and riders and gelling together, but everybody worked really well and we got three good days to work with and plenty of laps. We leave this test with three happy riders and some good baseline set ups headed to Daytona.”

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“Unfortunately I was unable to be at the first test, but I was certainly there in spirit! Ben and the team all kept me updated throughout the three days and it sounds like it was a very productive and successful first test. Putting together a set of people that haven’t worked together before is always challenging but I’m thankful to Ben, James and all the team for their commitment to the project. Now we’re on countdown to Daytona and I can’t wait to see PJ, Kayla, and Corey out on track!”

More, from a press release issued by Rahal Ducati Moto:

Rahal Ducati Moto Partners with R&G

ZIONSVILLE, Ind. – Rahal Ducati Moto is excited to announce a strategic partnership with R&G, a leading British company specializing in motorcycle accessories and crash protection.

Founded in 1999 in Hampshire, England, R&G is known for high-quality products and serves as an Official Sponsor of the British Superbike Championship and MotoAmerica. Their accessories have been used in various other series, including World Endurance, the Isle of Man TT and Australian Superbikes.

R&G, already a significant supporter in the series, further solidifies its dedication through this partnership. Both entities look forward to achieving new heights in the upcoming racing season which commences with the 82nd running of the historic Daytona 200, a non-points-paying Supersport race that will take place at Daytona International Speedway, March 7-9.

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“We welcome R&G as a valued partner, aligning with our commitment to excellence. We will be using their parts on different areas of the bikes and look forward to building a relationship with Simon and his team!”

Simon Hughes, Managing Director of R&G:

“R&G is absolutely delighted to be working with Rahal Ducati Moto in what is set to be a very exciting inaugural year for the Team. We see working with Rahal Ducati Moto as pivotal to our ever-expanding marketing and development program in North America, and R&G wishes the Team the best of luck for the 2024 campaign!”

MotoAmerica: Harley-Davidson Launches King Of The Baggers Team (Includes Video)

David Swarts

-

February 16, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Harley-Davidson Launches King Of The Baggers Team (Includes Video)

HARLEY-DAVIDSON FACTORY RACE TEAM LAUNCHES FOR 2024 MOTOAMERICA MISSON KING OF THE BAGGERS RACING SERIES

18-Race Schedule Includes Round at Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas

MILWAUKEE (February 16, 2024) – The Harley-Davidson® Factory Race Team today launches its 2024 season with an exciting video featuring team riders Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli aboard new race-prepared 2024 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycles based on the all-new touring platform for the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers road racing series. The video, with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the team, dials up the fun and irreverence of the King Of The Baggers series, and will debut today on the Harley-Davidson YouTube Channel and other social channels.

An exciting special round was recently added to the 2024 Mission King Of The Baggers Championship by appearing during the third round of the FIM MotoGP World Championship at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, April 12-13. This two-race appearance during the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas weekend will mark the first time an international audience will see the thundering King Of The Baggers bikes in competition. In addition to the two points-paying races on Saturday, April 13, there will be a three-lap Mission Challenge on Friday afternoon with the six fastest qualifiers battling for a $5,000 winner-take-all purse. This special round expands the 2024 Mission King Of The Baggers schedule to 18 total races.

Wyman and Rispoli will compete aboard race-prepared 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide® motorcycles powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engines. These motorcycles are based on the all-new 2024 Road Glide model, including the sleek new next-generation sharknose fairing design. Many of the race motorcycle body panels are formed with the same lightweight forged carbon fiber material featured on the 2024 CVO™ Road Glide® ST model. The team bikes also feature upgraded suspension components, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins Remote Reservoir Rear Shocks, and competition Screamin’ Eagle exhaust, along with upgraded Brembo® Racing braking systems, Marchesini® wheels, and premium Harley-Davidson racing components produced by Protolabs®. The team motorcycles will appear in all-new livery featuring the classic Legendary Racing Orange color long associated with Harley-Davidson Factory Team racing bikes.

Kyle Wyman (33). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

Wyman returns for a fourth season with the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team. He won seven races during the 2023 King of the Baggers season and finished third in the season championship. Wyman is the most winning racer in MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers history, with 12 total race wins in the 24 events since the start of the series in the 2021 season, plus the 2021 season championship to his credit. Wyman won the Daytona 200 in 2019.

James Rispoli (43). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

Rispoli joins the team for the 2024 season after placing second in King Of The Baggers series points in 2023 riding for the Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson team. In 2023, Rispoli won two races, and scored five second place finishes and three third place finishes. Rispoli began racing Harley-Davidson motorcycles as a teenager and earned the nickname “Hogspoli” after winning the 2020 American Flat Track Production Twins championship aboard a Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R. He also won back-to-back AMA Pro Racing Supersport championships in 2011-2012.

For the 2024 season, the Harley-Davidson® Factory Race Team is sponsored by Mission® Foods, Rockford Fosgate®, Brembo®, Öhlins®, Protolabs®, SYN3® lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts and Accessories.

The MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 series has expanded to 18 races over nine double-header weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike Series. The series opens on the high banks of Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, March 7-9. To experience all the King Of The Baggers action in 2024, check out the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Fan Ticket Packages.

2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Season Schedule

(Two races each weekend)

March 7-9: Daytona International Raceway – Daytona Beach, Fla.

April 12-13: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas (Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas)

April 19-21: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Ga.

May 31-June 2: Road America – Elkhart Lake, Wis.

June 14-16: Brainerd International Raceway – Brainerd, Minn.

July 12-14: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – Monterey, Calif.

August 16-18: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – Lexington, Ohio

September 13-15: Circuit of the Americas – Austin, Texas

September 27-29: New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, N.J.

Pirelli Supplying Tires To Over 150 Motorcycle Racing Championships In 2024

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

Pirelli Supplying Tires To Over 150 Motorcycle Racing Championships In 2024

Pirelli participates in over 150 championships in the 2024 motorbike racing season

Moto2™ and Moto3™ enter the portfolio of competitions for which Pirelli is Sole Supplier

WorldSBK remains the main championship for product development

Focus on young talents and women with commitments in talent cups and the Women’s World Championship

No prototypes, but standard tyres for racing technology accessible to everyone

Pirelli is ready for the motorcycle racing challenges of the upcoming motorsport season, which will kick off next week in Australia with the first round of the FIM Superbike World Championship. The most significant news for 2024 is represented by the entry into the Moto2™ and Moto3™ Championships as the Sole Tyre Supplier under a three-year agreement that sees Pirelli involved in the lightweight and intermediate classes of the Grand Prix until at least the 2026 season.

The Italian tyre company will bring the philosophy encapsulated in its now famous motto “We sell what we race, we race what we sell” to the new paddock, since it will provide a range of standard tyres and not prototypes, in a continuous evolution of those already used for over 20 seasons in the FIM Superbike World Championship, which remains the main open-air laboratory for the range development. As always with the racing products of the DIABLO family, Pirelli will also be the Sole Supplier of the newly created FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship and of the talent cups, dedicated to the rising riders of tomorrow, that are part of the Dorna’s Road to MotoGP™ project.

These championships add to the over 150 motorcycle competitions, on and off road, in which Pirelli will be involved in 2024. On asphalt, in addition to those already mentioned, Pirelli also participates in some of the most prestigious national championships such as the British Superbike (of which it has been the Sole Supplier since 2008), the German IDM Championship, and the French Superbike Championship, to name a few.

Pirelli’s commitment to off-road is also confirmed, starting with the FIM Motocross World Championship organized by Infront, in which the Italian tyre company boasts a record of 81 world titles and of which it will be an official tyre supplier until 2025 included.

Giorigo Barbier

Motorcycle Racing Director

“This year our commitment to motorcycle racing is stronger than ever with the entry as the Sole Tyre Supplier not only in Moto2™ and Moto3™ but also in the various talent cups, which are part of the Dorna Road to MotoGP™ project, and in the FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship. A further recognition of our role as a leader in the motorsport panorama as well as of the validity of our product and the work we have been carrying out for years in the FIM Superbike World Championship, Motocross World Championship, and in many other national competitions. We will also bring our philosophy to the new championships, which is nothing but the maximum application of the concept ‘from track to road’: in our case no transfer of technology is needed because the tyres used by riders are not prototypes but the same that any motorcyclist can buy. We will face the new challenges with enthusiasm, a very close-knit team, and with the working methodology that has always distinguished us.”

MOTO2™ AND MOTO3™, NEW PADDOCK FOR A NEW CHALLENGE

The Qatar Grand Prix (March 8-10) will mark Pirelli’s official race debut in the Moto2™ and Moto3™ Championships, after a private test in September at the Barcelona circuit followed by the first official test of 2024 held in November at the Valencia circuit where the riders set record lap times. Within the company’s strategy, the two classes will become an important driver for the further enhancement of the Pirelli brand both in terms of commercial growth and technological development.

Riders will be able to rely on the proven performance of DIABLO Superbike slick and DIABLO Rain tyres, both successfully used for years by riders of all classes of the FIM Superbike World Championship as well as those of many national championships. Specifically, Moto2™ riders will use front slicks in size 125/70 R17 with compounds SC1 and SC2 and rear slicks in size 200/65 R17 with compounds SC0 and SC1. The DIABLO Rain solution, in a single wet compound, will be available in sizes 120/70 R17 front and 200/60 R17 rear. As for the slicks for Moto3™, the front in 100/70 R17 will be available in compounds SC1 and SC2, the same used also for the rear in 120/70 R17. Same front size for the DIABLO Rain solution for wet conditions while the rear will be in 125/70 R17.

WORLDSBK AS THE MAIN DEVELOPMENT PLATFORM

Pirelli’s technical partnership with the FIM Superbike World Championship represented the first example of a single tyre in the history of top motorsport competitions and, more than twenty years later, has proved to be a winning choice followed by other championships on two and four wheels.

Over time, Pirelli has continued to make technological innovation its flagship, dictating each time the new parameters of racing tyres used all over the world: in 2013 with the historic switch from 16.5-inch tyres to new 17-inch tyres, in 2018 with the adoption of new larger sizes, the following year with the introduction of the new SCX slick compound and new compounds for wet tyres, and finally in 2022 with the development of the SCQ compound specifically dedicated to the new format with Superpole and Superpole Race.

It follows that the WorldSBK Championship will remain the reference point for Pirelli’s development of its entire racing range in the coming seasons, which will then be made available to all championships.

ROAD TO MOTOGP AND WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP: SUPPORT FOR YOUNG TALENTS AND FEMALE RIDERS

Together with Moto2™ and Moto3™, Pirelli makes its entry as the Sole Tyre Supplier in the championships related to the Road to MotoGP™ project, the global initiative for the promotion of young talents that offers access to motorcycle racing around the world. Pirelli will supply all classes of the Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship, Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, Northern Talent Cup, and Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, in addition to strengthening its commitment to the FIM MiniGP World Series. Alongside the WorldSBK Championship – where Pirelli is already present in all categories, including entry-level ones like the WorldSSP300 and the FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup – the DIABLO Superbike tyres will fit the Yamaha YZF-R7 of the new FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship which will start on June 14th from Misano, where the first of the six rounds scheduled will be held. Pirelli has been alongside Ana Carrasco when in 2018 she became the first woman in history to win a mixed motorcycle championship by winning the Supersport 300 World Championship, and these championships are consistent with Pirelli’s racing strategy to be present in all major competitions dedicated to tomorrow’s riders and to facilitate the inclusion of women in motorsport.

MotoAmerica: Mesa Riding Boulder Motor Sports Ducati In Daytona 200

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Mesa Riding Boulder Motor Sports Ducati In Daytona 200

STEFANO MESA RETURNS TO DAYTONA 200 WITH BOULDER MOTOR SPORTS

Renowned motorcycle racer Stefano Mesa is set to make a triumphant return to the Daytona 200, partnering with the Boulder Motor Sports Team under the leadership of Brian Sharp. The race will see Mesa on the track aboard a meticulously prepared Ducati Panigale V2 by Boulder Motor Sports, showcasing the pinnacle of endurance racing engineering.

Boulder Motor Sports, a name synonymous with precision and excellence in the industry, has spared no effort in preparing Mesa’s Ducati V2. Under the strategic guidance of Brian Sharp, Boulder Motor Sports Team aims to leave an indelible mark on the Daytona 200. Sharp, known for his adept leadership and passion for motorsports, is confident that Mesa and the Boulder Motor Sports-prepared Ducati V2 will be a force to be reckoned with.

Brian Sharp, Team Manager and Owner of Boulder Motor Sports

“My team and I are excited to be racing once again at this year’s Daytona 200. We’ve worked with Stefano at various events over the past few years and have been very impressed with his speed and skill set. As the lap record holder at Daytona, we are confident that he will be upfront fighting for the win at this iconic event onboard our Ducati V2.”

Stefano Mesa

Mesa, with his wealth of experience and exceptional skill, expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the fray at Daytona. “I’m thrilled to announce that I will be running the Daytona 200 after a six-year hiatus. It wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible effort of Brian Sharp and Boulder Motor Sports in assembling this program. I’m grateful for my successful collaborations with Boulder Motor Sports in the past. With the team’s commitment to excellence, a great bike, and my trusted Pirelli tires under me, we’re confident in a good result on the Ducati V2.”

As anticipation builds for the Daytona 200, all eyes will be on Stefano Mesa and the Boulder Motors Sports Team as they, and others, push the limits of speed and skill in pursuit of victory.

Thank you to our sponsors

Pirelli Tires, K-Tech Suspension, Orient Express Racing, Drive Systems USA, Schmitt Law Firm, Ikonic Yachts, Spiegler Performance Parts, Forza 14 Racing, Moto Rapido Ducati UK, Motul, Spider Racing, H2O Galletto Radiators, Plastic-bike Fairings, Full Spectrum Power, Pierobon Frames, STM Clutches, Termignoni Exhaust, Capit, FCC, KYT Helmets and Dainese Leathers.

Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. If interested please contact [email protected]

About Boulder Motor Sports

Boulder Motor Sports opened for business in 2006 with the vision of specializing in high quality Ducati service, performance, and quality one on one customer service. Our goal at Boulder Motor Sports is to provide knowledgeable information and comprehensive service solutions for Ducati enthusiasts and racers. Our clients come from various riding backgrounds, from new riders to professional racers competing in various racing organizations across the country. With the ever-changing needs of the Ducati customer, our parts inventory is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the local area. Whether you’re looking for performance upgrades or just simple hardware and maintenance items, Boulder Motor Sports can facilitate your needs. Boulder Motor Sports prides itself on maintaining the highest level of service. Our technicians have over 30 years of experience combined and our shop includes all the extensive special service tools needed to properly service your Ducati.

Americans Gouker, Matsudaira Teaming Up For Spanish Adventure

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

Americans Gouker, Matsudaira Teaming Up For Spanish Adventure

Americans Kensei Matsudaira and Nathan Gouker Teaming Up to Race in RFME
ESBK Spanish Superbike Championship in PreMoto3 and Moto4

February 15, 2024

After a successful rookie season in the 2023 RFME ESBK (Campeonato de
España de Superbike) Moto4 championship, 13-year-old Japanese-American
Kensei Matsudaira is moving up to the PreMoto3 category in the same
championship for 2024.

Kensei’s team from 2023, Evike.com Nox#27 Racing Team, has joined forces
with Ajevo Racing Team, also based out of Valencia, Spain, to create a
new team capable of fielding up to four riders in the PreMoto3 and Moto4
categories in the ESBK Championship to fight for race wins and podiums.

Kensei Matsudaira:

“Last year in Moto4 was a good year, I learned a lot and definitely
enjoyed the high level of racing in ESBK and fighting at the front. I’m
really looking forward to moving up to PreMoto3 this year with all of my
crew from last year and also having a bigger team around me. I know this
will be another big step but I’m ready and excited for the challenge.”

Joining the team in the Moto4 category is 12-year-old American Nathan
Gouker, making his full time racing debut in Spain:

“I’m extremely excited to announce I will be racing in the 2024 ESBK
Moto4 Championship for Team Ajevo/Nox#27. I’m humbled for the
opportunity to represent my amazing sponsors, the United States, and my
family in this highly competitive series. Our first test and race will
be at the Jerez circuit, a track I raced last year, so I have confidence going
into the season. I want to thank Stadler, Bob Robbins, and CP
Motorsports for their incredible support and of course our additional
sponsors for helping to put this all together. I know it’s going to be
very challenging, but I’m ready for this next step in my career.”

Nathan Gouker hails from North Carolina and is one of the fastest rising
stars in road racing in America. He started racing MotoAmerica Mini Cup
in 2019, and in 2022 made his big break by winning the Ohvale 110 and
160 championships. He followed that up with another championship victory
in the 160 class in 2023, earing a ticket to the FIM MiniGP World Finale
where he finished an impressive fifth out of 34 riders from around the
world. In 2023 Nathan also made his Spanish Moto5 racing debut in the
MIR Racing Cup with wildcard entries in Jerez and Cartegena, with an
impressive best finish of fourth place.

The seven-round 2024 RFME ESBK championship begins with an official test on
March 16 at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto in Spain, followed by Round
One at the same venue on April 4.

There are still openings within the team for additional riders
interested in joining the ESBK championship in the Moto4 and PreMoto3
categories. Please direct all team inquiries to: [email protected]

The Ajevo Nox#27 Racing Team is supported by Alquilocar, Comodity Window
Films, FRC Fercometal, Nadalfret, and Viel Carrocerias.

Kensei Matsudaira is supported by: Evike.com, Iconic Motorbikes, HJC
Helmets, Dave Designs, Bison Track, TJ Corse, Alpinestars, Almassera El
Teular, California Superbike School, Moto Tecnica, The Starting Grid,
Karen E. Ott Photography, VNM Sport, Bickle Racing, MadLabs Minimoto, 73
Moto Parts, D.I.D Chain, Yoshimura R&D, Slacker, Galfer USA, Vortex,
NLAB, Moto Survival School, Mini Moto Alliance

Nathan Gouker is supported by: Stadler, CP Motorsports, Bob Robbins,
Quarterley Racing, NGS Racing, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Cornerspin,
Fastglass Media, Motul USA, 64degrees Racing, Carolina Supermoto, Ride
Supermoto, Daniels Tire

Nathan’s title sponsor STADLER is a world-leader in designing,
manufacturing, and installing post-consumer materials recovery
facilities. Successful systems built by Stadler include those for
sorting, screening and complete Material Recovery Solutions for MSW,
co-mingled & single-stream, paper & OCC, lightweight packaging, plastic
bottles, C&I, C&D, & RDF. STADLER has installed more than 300 complete
turn-key recycling plants 10,000 single machines worldwide. STADLER’s
high quality engineering and manufacturing is currently under its 8th
generation of family ownership and is based in Germany with offices on
every inhabited continent.

American Flat Track: FloSports Will Now Stream Live AFT Action

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

American Flat Track: FloSports Will Now Stream Live AFT Action

Progressive American Flat Track and FloSports Enter Multi-Year Livestreaming Agreement

Five-Year Media Rights Agreement Makes FloRacing The Exclusive Livestreaming Platform Of World’s Premier Dirt Track Motorcycle Racing Series

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 15, 2024) – AMA Pro Racing and FloSports, a global independent sports media company and streaming platform, have entered into a multi-year media agreement making FloRacing the exclusive livestreaming and content destination for Progressive American Flat Track (AFT), the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series.

The addition of Progressive AFT to the FloRacing portfolio will broaden its two-wheel offerings to fans and further establish its position as the ultimate destination for racing audiences of all kinds. FloRacing is a worldwide leader for motorsports content delivering more than 142 million views in 2023 across a wide range of motorsports coverage including dirt, pavement, drag, NASCAR, and more.

“This is a landmark agreement for Progressive American Flat Track, and we are excited to partner with FloSports ahead of our 70th anniversary season,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “FloSports has a proven track record of growing sports. We are likeminded in our commitment to expanding our audience and ensuring fans have access to every moment of live racing action.”

“FloRacing is quickly becoming an essential destination for all motorsports fans and adding Progressive AFT to our portfolio helps bring us one step closer to fulfilling our vision for the brand,” said Mark Floreani, CEO of FloSports. “The history and legacy of Progressive AFT is remarkable and it is our mission to help grow the sport across our channels through world-class storytelling and event coverage.”

Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2024. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

FansChoice.tv will continue to be Progressive AFT’s home for video-on-demand and archived content, while expanding to include Road to AFT amateur races and select American Hillclimb rounds in 2024. More details will be announced in the near future.

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.

About FloSports:

Founded in 2006, FloSports is a subscription video streaming service dedicated to sports, offering live and on-demand access to hundreds of thousands of comptition events across 25+ vertical sport categories in the US and abroad. FloSports’ vision is to give underserved sports the love they deserve. With a growing library of more than 300,000 hours of premium content including news, expert commentary, films, documentaries and more, FloSports has established itself as an innovator and leader in sports streaming. Finally, your sport has a home. For more information, please visit: www.flosports.tv.

About AMA Pro Racing:

AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines from its headquarters in Daytona Beach, Fla. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

FIM Releases 2024 Motorcycle Homologation List

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

FIM Releases 2024 Motorcycle Homologation List

FIM Homologated Motorcycles for 2024

The 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship season is just a few days away from starting with the roar of the engines at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

It should be an unforgettable season with massive transfers, big rule changes and high-profile rookies set to take the Championship by storm. Now, the list of FIM homologated motorcycles for 2024 has been revealed. In WorldSBK, the only change is the new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade (in standard (ST) and SP versions) has been homologated with that process completed in January. No other manufacturers have had a change to their homologations.

Elsewhere in the paddock, the Honda CBR600RR with model codes PC40 (for Asian market) and PC69 (for European Market) was homologated in January 2024, while the MV Agusta F3 800 RR M.U. and the F3 Superveloce M.U. were both homologated in December last year. The Triumph Street Triple 765 RS, under model code HJ8, received homologation in January (previously, it was model code HJ7). Yamaha’s YZF-R7 machine has also been homologated for SSP 600/NG (Phase 1 only) in order for the FIM to support its National Federations welcoming this new machine in their national series. In WorldSSP300, the Kawasaki Ninja 400’s homologation extension is pending Phase 1 completion, and the Kove 321 RR-S (model code P310) is awaiting both Phase 1 and Phase 2 homologation. Yamaha’s YZF-R3 machine received homologation in October 2023, with model code YZF-R3 320 now homologated; last year, it was model code YZF-R3/ABS.

Listing_of_FIM_Homologated_Motorcycles_for_2024_15_February_2024

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “Zen And The Art Of Crashing.”

David Swarts

-

February 15, 2024

0

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “Zen And The Art Of Crashing.”

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

This podcast is “Zen and the Art of Crashing.”

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

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

Imagine one moment of perfect calm. You feel the air move around you, free from gravity. In the blink of an eye, everything becomes clear as water. It would be beautiful – if only you weren’t in the midst of a violent highside.

Racing means crashing, something Mat and Peter are all too familiar with. But what happens when a rider loses control? What goes through your mind in that moment between error and violent consequence, and what does an engineer see when a bike goes flying in ways it was never meant to? What does it mean to learn the limits of your bike the hard way, and how can someone like Marc Márquez both have the most wins and the most crashes? This week, we throw all caution to the wind as we look at why riders crash.

With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club, who wrote our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!

American Flat Track: Ryan Varnes Racing Signs Cameron Smith To Ride KTM

David Swarts

-

February 14, 2024

0

American Flat Track: Ryan Varnes Racing Signs Cameron Smith To Ride KTM

Ryan Varnes Racing Signs Cameron Smith for ‘24 Mission SuperTwins Campaign

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 14, 2024) – Ryan Varnes Racing LLC (RVR) is proud to announce that Cameron Smith will pilot the #34 Schaeffer’s Motorsports KTM 790 Duke in Mission SuperTwins competition for the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season.

The Pennsylvanian is coming off an impressive ‘23 season in which he demonstrated his ability to compete with the world’s elite motorcycle dirt trackers in the premier class, logging a pair of late-season top tens, including a fifth-place finish at the Black Hills Half-Mile.

Smith has been racing since he was six years old, and the 2024 season will mark his tenth as a professional. During that time, he’s twice finished sixth in the championship standings – once apiece in the Mission Production Twins and Parts Unlimited AFT Singles classes – while registering numerous top fives and multiple podiums along the way.

RVR is committed to campaigning the entire 2024 Progressive AFT season along with select test days and special events. The effort is backed by Rausch Fuel and Oil, Iowa City Brake, Dick Ford, Brian Willis, and Brush/Eaken Racing with Bart Addis.

Team Manager Kevin Varnes said, “We’re excited to have Cam aboard this season. Cam and my late son, Ryan, grew up racing together, and I was lucky to have the opportunity to watch Cam compete at every level throughout his career. He is a talented hard charger with the ability to ride anything he sits on to its fullest potential.”

Smith said, “Thanks to RVR, I feel like 2024 will be my time to show everyone what I’ve really got. The team gives 100% effort, and I’m ready to give them the same every time I ride. I’ve been training hard, eating right, and doing a lot of riding this winter to get ready. I can’t wait for Daytona.”

Stay up to date with RVR by following:

Instagram : 34cameronsmith

Facebook :  Cameron Smith

WorldSBK: A Preview Of The Season-Opener At Phillip Island

February 16, 2024

Toprak Razgatlioglu (left) and Nicolo Bulega (right). Image courtesy Dorna.

Countdown to Round 1: WorldSBK heads to Phillip Island

What to look out for in Phillip Island

The WorldSBK grid will have a final opportunity to fine-tune their setups before the season opener with a single day of testing scheduled at Phillip Island on Tuesday.
Ducati’s Nicolo Bulega and BMW’s Toprak Razgatlioglu, currently the fastest in pre-season tests, will tackle the Australian circuit with their new bikes.
Alvaro Bautista, discreet during pre-season as he adapts to new weight regulations, will focus on readiness for the opening round of the season.

Grid transformations and new horizons

The 2024 WorldSBK grid sees major changes, with only four teams unchanged from last year.

Toprak Razgatlioglu departed from Yamaha to join the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, where he teams up with Michael van der Mark. Jonathan Rea ended his longstanding partnership with Kawasaki to join Pata Prometeon Yamaha alongside Andrea Locatelli, bringing a fresh dynamic to the grid.

Nicolo Bulega‘s promotion to the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team, partnering with Alvaro Bautista, came after an impressive 2023 WorldSSP campaign which saw him clinch the title. Axel Bassani stepped up to the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK after Rea‘s departure, transitioning from Ducati. Out of the five factory teams in 2023, only Team HRC have kept the same line-up as last year, aligning Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge.

Additionally, Sam Lowes and Andrea Iannone made their much-anticipated debut in WorldSBK with Elf Marc VDS Racing Team and Team GoEleven respectively. With these seismic shifts in the WorldSBK grid, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive season.

Navigating 2024 new regulations

In 2024, significant rule changes are in effect. Riders below a reference weight must add ballast to their bikes. A fuel capacity limit of 21 litres is now enforced, and fuel flow regulations are under scrutiny, with some bikes collecting data this season. There’s also been a change with RPM limits. Manufacturers will start 2024 how they ended 2023 – except Ducati, who have their original 2023 limit back

Download 2024 Regulations

Pre-season insights

The Official Test at Phillip Island serves as a crucial platform for teams and riders to assess their readiness for the season ahead, as pre-season testing has already provided insights, setting the stage for Round 1.

Toprak Razgatlioglu‘s move to BMW proves promising, with a strong pace and significant improvements noted. Jonathan Rea impresses despite lacking outright speed, showcasing consistent performance during testing. Meanwhile, Alvaro Bautista‘s adaptation struggles and injury setbacks contrast with Nicolo Bulega‘s standout performances for Ducati

More on worldsbk.com

Download the Official Test & Round Schedule

WorldSBK | KEY STAT

18 Phillip Island is the home for thrilling finishes: no less than 18 races here were decided by less than 0.1 seconds.

Download Stats Pack

WorldSSP grid gears up for Season Opener with final pre-season test

What to look out for in Phillip Island

As the final pre-season test approaches before the kickoff of the 2024 season, contenders in the WorldSSP category are gearing up for the Official Test which will take place on Monday.
Stefano Manzi and Marcel Schroetter are determined to secure the Championship they missed last season, while Can Oncu is determined to reclaim his position at the top of the grid.
Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team, the reigning champions of WorldSSP, have enlisted Adrian Huertas to replace Nicolo Bulega, aiming to defend their title.

Grid updates

Changes are abound on the WorldSSP grid for the upcoming season. Adrian Huertas steps into the spotlight, taking Nicolo Bulega’s place at the Aruba.it WorldSSP Racing Team, while Valentin Debise is set to represent the Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team.

Stefano Manzi, the 2023 runner-up, continues his journey with the Pata Yamaha Ten Kate outfit, now joined by Glenn van Straalen. Marcel Schroetter, who secured third place in last season’s standings, remains with the MV Agusta Reparto Corse outfit, alongside Bahattin Sofuoglu. Despite facing challenges in the 2023 season, Can Oncu returns for his fifth campaign with the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing outfit. Meanwhile, Yari Montella, a podium finisher in 2023, remains committed to the Barni Spark Racing Team.

Making a return to WorldSSP are Lorenzo Baldassarri (ORELAC Racing VERDNATURA) and Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha), eager to build on their past successes.

Exciting debuts await at Phillip Island, with new riders and teams entering the WorldSSP arena. Niccolo Antonelli joins the Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team, while Triumph expands its presence with a second team in the series, WRP-RT Motorsport by SKM-Triumph, featuring Jorge Navarro and John McPhee.

New regulations

In 2024, WorldSSP undergoes significant scheduling changes. Notably, the grids for Race 2 will now be determined by the fastest laps recorded in Race 1 for the top nine contenders, emphasizing outstanding performances. The Tissot Superpole sessions take place on Friday, after a Free Practice session in the morning. Alongside these changes, the SBK Commission introduces sustainable fuel for both the WorldSBK and WorldSSP categories, commencing from the 2024 season, with a mandatory minimum of 40% sustainable fuel content.

Pre-season insights

During the pre-season tests at Jerez and Portimao, WorldSSP riders exhibited their skills and readiness for the upcoming season. Marcel Schroetter led the pack at Jerez, with Stefano Manzi close behind. Can Oncu showed promising performance. At Portimao, Adrian Huertas maintained his dominance, topping the charts ahead of Niccolo Antonelli.

More on worldsbk.com

MotoAmerica: Rahal Ducati Moto Happy With First Pre-Season Test

February 16, 2024

Corey Alexander talks with a crew member during the Rahal Ducati Moto test at Jennings GP, in Florida. Photo courtesy Rahal Ducati Moto.

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO COMPLETE SUCCESSFUL FIRST TEST

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (02.15.2024) -The recently established Rahal Ducati Moto team successfully concluded its inaugural three-day testing session at Jennings GP in Hamilton County, Florida.

Despite the challenging weather conditions in the lead-up to the test, team riders PJ Jacobsen, Kayla Yaakov, and Corey Alexander were greeted by clear skies on Tuesday morning, providing a welcome respite from the earlier heavy rain. The team, determined to make the most of the favorable weather, diligently assembled three brand-new Ducati Panigale V2s, which had not yet experienced any track time. The riders, along with their newly-formed crews, worked closely to establish a comfortable and effective rapport with their new bikes, addressing and resolving any minor issues that surfaced during the test.

The riders covered an impressive number of laps over the three days, with PJ clocking a fastest time of 1:15.4s, Kayla – 1:15.6s, and Corey – 1:16.2s. They leave the Jennings track with a good base ahead of their maiden race with the RDM team in just three weeks time, in Daytona Beach, FL.

PJ Jacobsen:

“It’s been a good first test, just getting the bikes on track and getting to know everyone, it’s a steady building process, and it has gone really well. The first day I wasn’t too comfortable so I worked with all the crew and the feeling improved as the test progressed. I’m now feeling a lot happier and we just have to keep chipping away to find the best set up for Daytona.”

Kayla Yaakov:

“I’ve really enjoyed the first test and getting to know the team that Ben and Graham have assembled. Everyone worked really well together and starting off in this way is very important ahead of the season. They did a great job of building three bikes overnight and reacting to all the issues that come up when building new bikes! I feel we improved steadily as the test progressed, there were a few small things here and there, but we’ve worked through them together which is key, and that’s why we’re here testing. The final day was super positive, and we were able to find a competitive base setting. I am very happy with what we were able to learn and achieve this week, and I have full confidence that this team can deliver some awesome results this season!”

Corey Alexander:

“The most important thing was getting all the team together. This isn’t just a normal ‘new team’ but a completely new team of people, bikes, everything! We worked through the kinks that you expect to find when rolling out new bikes that have never been on track and overall, considering where we were a week ago, we’re in a good place for sure! I’m a slow burner and take my time to find my groove, so having the three days has been great to get to a place that I’m comfortable with ahead of Daytona.”

Ben Spies, Rahal Ducati Moto Team Principal:

“I’m extremely happy with how the first test went. Obviously it was a little nerve wracking for the first time working all together with new mechanics and riders and gelling together, but everybody worked really well and we got three good days to work with and plenty of laps. We leave this test with three happy riders and some good baseline set ups headed to Daytona.”

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“Unfortunately I was unable to be at the first test, but I was certainly there in spirit! Ben and the team all kept me updated throughout the three days and it sounds like it was a very productive and successful first test. Putting together a set of people that haven’t worked together before is always challenging but I’m thankful to Ben, James and all the team for their commitment to the project. Now we’re on countdown to Daytona and I can’t wait to see PJ, Kayla, and Corey out on track!”

More, from a press release issued by Rahal Ducati Moto:

Rahal Ducati Moto Partners with R&G

ZIONSVILLE, Ind. – Rahal Ducati Moto is excited to announce a strategic partnership with R&G, a leading British company specializing in motorcycle accessories and crash protection.

Founded in 1999 in Hampshire, England, R&G is known for high-quality products and serves as an Official Sponsor of the British Superbike Championship and MotoAmerica. Their accessories have been used in various other series, including World Endurance, the Isle of Man TT and Australian Superbikes.

R&G, already a significant supporter in the series, further solidifies its dedication through this partnership. Both entities look forward to achieving new heights in the upcoming racing season which commences with the 82nd running of the historic Daytona 200, a non-points-paying Supersport race that will take place at Daytona International Speedway, March 7-9.

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“We welcome R&G as a valued partner, aligning with our commitment to excellence. We will be using their parts on different areas of the bikes and look forward to building a relationship with Simon and his team!”

Simon Hughes, Managing Director of R&G:

“R&G is absolutely delighted to be working with Rahal Ducati Moto in what is set to be a very exciting inaugural year for the Team. We see working with Rahal Ducati Moto as pivotal to our ever-expanding marketing and development program in North America, and R&G wishes the Team the best of luck for the 2024 campaign!”

MotoAmerica: Harley-Davidson Launches King Of The Baggers Team (Includes Video)

February 16, 2024

James Rispoli (43), Kyle Wyman (33), and the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Team. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.