Home Blog Page 653

MotoAmerica: Max Van Moving Up To Supersport

MotoAmerica Junior Cup racer Max Van, age 18, is moving up the racing ladder and is entering the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship in 2024.

“I’m doing the full season in the MotoAmerica Supersport class aboard a Team Hammer-built Suzuki GSX-R750,” Van told Roadracingworld.com. “It will be a Team Hammer-supported program with technical information, etc.”

While some racers tend to move from the 50-horsepower Junior Cup bikes to 95-horsepower Twins Cup motorcycles, Van has made the decision to leapfrog the Twins Cup class and jump onto a 130-horsepower Supersport machine.

“Building out and maintaining a Twins Cup racebike, as you know, can be crazy expensive,” said Van, who has racked up three wins and nine total podium finishes during the past two Junior Cup Championship seasons. “Plus, I want to do the full nine-round season instead of just six.

“Plus, I’ve ridden the Suzuki a few times and it suits my style. I’m already a bigger guy as it is, so I don’t think I’ll have any problem riding the bigger bike.”

 

Max Van (48) testing his new Suzuki GSX-R750 at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.
Max Van (48) testing his new Suzuki GSX-R750 at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.

 

Van will also have the advantage of working with rider coach Josh Hayes, the all-time AMA/MotoAmerica race win leader.

“Josh coached me all last year,” said Van, “but it was difficult for him because he had never ridden a small bike like mine, and riding that thing is completely different than riding a Supersport. But he’s going to be able to help me a lot more this season.”

Instead of competing in the 2024 Daytona 200, which is a MotoAmerica Supersport race that does not pay points toward the Championship, Van made the strategic decision to skip the spring classic in exchange for more testing time ahead of round one at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in April.

Van said that with support from SportbikeTrackGear.com (STG) he has everything in place to do the full season, but he is seeking more sponsorship, including a title sponsor, for his program.

MotoAmerica: Honda More Than Doubles Contingency Prizes For 2024

Editorial Note: American Honda has posted just under $2.8 million in contingency in MotoAmerica for the 2024 season plus contingency with 13 other road racing organizations.

 

Honda Offers Most Red Rider Rewards Ever for 2024 MotoAmerica Racing

Industry’s most generous MotoAmerica package in Superbike, Stock 1000

Over $1 million available for Red Rider road racers in 2024

American Honda announced today that it will offer the powersports industry’s most generous Red Rider Rewards payouts for MotoAmerica’s Superbike and Stock 1000 classes for 2024. The new season of the AMA’s professional road racing national championship will see Red Riders competing for an available total of over $1 million across the series’ top categories, with additional payouts going to the Mini Cup series. This is Honda’s richest racing-contingency offering ever for MotoAmerica—well over twice as high as the 2023 season!

At each round, the program offers payments to Red Riders in the top 10 finishing positions in MotoAmerica’s top two classes, including a whopping $25,000 for a Superbike win and $10,000 for a Stock 1000 victory. That said, Red Rider Rewards don’t just benefit racers who battle at the front of the pack, as a 10th place result pays out $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.

“It’s been exciting to see MotoAmerica continue to improve their program, and the series is really hitting its stride,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing & Experiential Marketing at American Honda. “Road racing plays an important role in Honda’s heritage, including a rich record of success in AMA-sanctioned competition. That being the case, we’re excited to significantly increase our offerings for Superbike and Stock 1000 racers of our CBR sport bikes. In addition, we’re pleased to support tomorrow’s stars with our offerings in the Mini Cup series. We’re confident that Red Riders will enjoy their best MotoAmerica season ever in 2024, and we look forward to rewarding them for their efforts.”

Of course, Honda’s Red Rider Rewards program also continues to offer generous payouts in other disciplines this year, including motocross, Supercross, SuperMotocross, off-road, and ATV and side-by-side competition.

For more information, visit the Honda Powersports website.

Revzilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki NHRA Team Announced

REVZILLA/MISSION/ VANCE & HINES SUZUKI TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT

Indianapolis, IN – January 17, 2024 – Thrilling Team Announcement! Vance & Hines Motorsports is gearing up for an epic 2024 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Championship season with a powerhouse lineup! 

 

Gaige Herrera, the 2023 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.
Gaige Herrera, the 2023 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.

 

Returning champion Gaige Herrera, fresh off his 2023 NHRA Pro Stock triumph, is set to defend his title on the RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki. With a record-breaking 11 wins last season, Herrera is ready to face the competition head-on. Joining forces with Herrera is seasoned racer Richard Gadson [nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson], making his rookie debut in NHRA Pro Stock after securing titles in various circuits. Gadson, with Eddie Krawiec as his full-time crew chief alongside Andrew Hines, is set to add his expertise to the team.

 

Richard Gadson, the nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.
Richard Gadson, the nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.

 

About Vance & Hines Motorsports

Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica.

About Revzilla

Revzilla is a leading online retailer specializing in motorcycle gear and accessories. Known for its extensive selection, expert customer service, and commitment to rider satisfaction, Revzilla is a trusted destination for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking top-quality products.

 

WorldSBK: Date Of Season Finale Changed

New dates for 2024 Prometeon Spanish Round

Jerez will once again play host to the final of the 2024 WorldSBK season, with an adjustment to the initially slated dates.
 

Responding to the dynamic demands of the local events calendar and the request of the township of Jerez de la Frontera, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and WorldSBK agreed to delay this year’s curtain closer by one week.
 

The Prometeon Spanish Round is now scheduled to unfold on October 18th-20th at the famed Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto.

 

MOTUL_FIM_Superbike_World_Championship_2024_Calendar_updated_17_January

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “New Year’s Special – The Big Machine Roundup”

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 “New Year’s Special – The Big Machine Roundup.”

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

 

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

Earth has finished another lap around the sun, again not breaking it’s record of 365 days. But while the Big Blue Marble isn’t going to change speed any time soon, the same can’t be said for the bikes in MotoGP. 

 So today, at very edge between 2023 and 2024, Mat and Peter dust off their crystal balls to take a peak at what the future holds for all our favorite competitors. We’re going through the bikes of 2024, machine by machine, and see what we can expect of them. So cheers to the new year, and enjoy!

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!  

R.I.P. Anthony Gobert (Updated)

Former AMA Pro, World Superbike, and 500cc Grand Prix racer Anthony Gobert has died at age 48. The talented star was brilliant on a racebike and a fan favorite but struggled with alcohol and drug addiction throughout his career. Survivors include his mother (and manager) Suzanne and younger brothers Aaron and Alex.

Godspeed Anthony Gobert.

 

Suzanne Gobert posted the following earlier Wednesday on social media:

“My heart is breaking as I write this as my first born beautiful son Anthony has passed late this afternoon [Australian time] I loved him from the moment he was born until the day I die. At times he was challenging, to say the least, but he always had a kind heart and cared for everyone. Sadly, he was a victim of addiction, which runs deeply in our families. He tried many times to get better, but he couldn’t quite make it. I am so proud of him and thank all those good people who added to his life. You know who you are.”

 

Alex Gobert posted the following on his social media:

My eldest brother was my first proper hero. In a lot of ways, his influence on my childhood and our connection to the sport still stands strong to this day and I genuinely treasure those early memories. I always will.

Hopefully, especially for his sake, we can all celebrate the better times in his life, the moments beyond the immense struggles and also take the time to recognise once again that both addiction and mental health battles are very real, very difficult obstacles to overcome.

Thank you to all who have extended their thoughts and shared memories.

 

Read MotoGP Editor Max Oxley’s obituary for Anthony Gobert HERE.

MRA Expands 2024 Schedule To Eight Rounds

MRA Announces 2024 Racing Schedule and New Racer School.

Denver, CO – The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) is excited to announce the schedule for the 2024 racing season. The season begins with our New Racers School on April 12-13, welcoming participants of all skill levels, under the guidance of our experienced instructors. For 2024, we have introduced some key updates to our racing calendar:

Additional Racing Round: We’ve expanded the season to include an 8th round, offering more opportunities for racers to compete for a championship title.

Double Points in Round 7: To add a strategic element to the championship, round 7 will feature double points.

New 2-Hour Endurance Race: Following the success of our 4-hour endurance race, a 2-hour endurance event has been added to round 6, providing a new challenge for our racers.

We look forward to a season of competitive racing and invite fans and racers alike to join us for these exciting events.

 

April 12-13 – New Racers School

– Friday night classroom – Location TBD

– Saturday on-track training at High Plains Raceway (backup date: April 27)

 

May 11-12 – Round 1

– High Plains Raceway (North Course)

 

May 25-26 – Round 2

– Pueblo Motorsports Park

 

June 8-9 – Round 3

– Pueblo Motorsports Park

 

June 29-30 – Round 4

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course) + Annual 4-Hour Endurance

 

July 20-21 – Round 5

– High Plains Raceway (West Course)

 

August 10-11 – Round 6

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course) + 2-Hour Endurance

 

August 31 – September 1 – Round 7

*Double-Points Weekend*

– High Plains Raceway (North Course)

 

September 28-29 – Round 8

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course)

 

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information and to learn about our upcoming 2024 season, please go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.

 

 

 

UtahSBA Going Back To Two-Day Race Events In 2024

The Utah SportBike Association (UtahSBA) is excited to announce its 2024 Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains Superbike Race Series as well as its Supermoto Race Series to be held at Utah Motorsports Campus. For 2024 we are pleased to announce the return of two-day superbike racing! New racers are able to get on the track for as little as $100 and reciprocity licenses are available for most organizations throughout the country. As in years past, our friends at Apex Trackdays will be holding a track day on the Friday before each round. See the schedule below for a complete list of dates and head over to Utahsba.com or find us on Facebook to answer any questions.

 

Superbike

Round 1: May 4-5

Round 2: May 25-26

Round 3: July 6-7

Round 4: August 3-4

Round 5: September 14-15

New Racer Certification School: April 20th

Advance Rider Training: TBD

Super Moto

Round 1: April 28th

Round 2: May 19th

Round 3: June 23rd

Round 4: August 18th

Round 5: September 8th

Round 6: September 29th

MotoAmerica: Vance & Hines Announces New Title Sponsor

Vance & Hines Motorsports, a leading force in the world of motorcycle racing, is excited to announce motorcycle gear, parts and accessories leader RevZilla is set to be the title sponsor of V&H Motorsports’ teams in both NHRA drag racing and MotoAmerica road racing for the next two years. This marks the first time in over 50 years of competition that all Vance & Hines’ racing programs will fall under one title sponsorship umbrella.

Founded in 2007 as an online retailer of motorcycle gear, parts and accessories, RevZilla is now owned by parent company Comoto Holdings. In addition to its industry leading online presence, RevZilla also has retail stores in Newport Beach, Denver, and Philadelphia.

“In all of our years of racing, we’ve never had one company serve as a title sponsor for all of our racing activities,” said Vance & Hines Motorsports owner Terry Vance. “RevZilla has stepped up to be the major sponsor of our programs in both NHRA and MotoAmerica and we know they will be the perfect title-sponsorship partner. We’re excited about the new relationship, and we can’t wait to go racing with RevZilla onboard for the next two years.”

“We wanted to expose the RevZilla brand to a whole new audience and Vance & Hines Motorsports has presented the perfect platform to do that,” said Comoto’s Chief Marketing Officer and RevZilla President Steve Bontempo. “As title sponsor of Vance & Hines Motorsports, RevZilla will be introduced to fans of NHRA and MotoAmerica in the best possible light. We’re looking forward to an exciting 2024 and 2025 at drag strips and racetracks across the country.”

Vance & Hines Motorsports, who will continue to partner with Mission Foods, Harley-Davidson and Suzuki, will be announcing its teams for the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and the 2024 MotoAmerica Championship in the coming days.

MotoAmerica: DiBrino Returning To SHNC With Competition Werkes Gray Area KTM

MotoAmerica: Competition Werkes Gray Area KTM Team Announcement 
 
Andy DiBrino is back for the 2024 MotoAmerica RSD Super Hooligan National Championship (SHNC) with support from Competition Werkes, Gray Area KTM and KTM USA. DiBrino finished third overall in the 2023 championship with a win at Ridge Motorsports Park and five other podium finishes.
 
Here is what Andy had to say about his 2024 team:
 
“I have a few announcements to make! First off, I am excited to be merging my racing efforts together with Paxton Gray at Gray Area KTM. We share a passion for racing KTMs and I look forward to working with him on my race bikes this season! Next, Competition Werkes is coming back on-board with me this year, this time as the title sponsor for my Super Hooligan campaign. I can’t thank Shawn and Ward enough for the help. It is awesome to have another Oregon-based business behind my back! And finally, I’m really looking forward to having Mark Price join my dad as pit crew this season. Mark placed fifth overall in the Super Hooligan series last year with a podium to his credit. Not only is he a great rider and coach, he is a handyman when it comes to working on these KTMs and he has some valuable experience to offer. There is a lot of changes in my program and it has me excited to get out there at Daytona and get after it. My goal is to improve on last year’s results and win the championship!” 
 
 
Andy DiBrino (left) with Gray Area's Paxton Gray (right). Photo courtesy Andy DiBrino Racing.
Andy DiBrino (left) with Gray Area’s Paxton Gray (right). Photo courtesy Andy DiBrino Racing.
 
 
Andy would like to thank all of his personal sponsors:
 
Oregon Motorcycle Attorney, Dunlop Tires, Motul, ODI Grips, SKDA Moto, Precision Iron Works, Motosport Hillsboro, Kramer Motorcycles, See See Motorcycles, Superlite Sprockets, K-Tech Suspension, Orient Express Racing, Bellissimoto, ASV Inventions, Ever True Tattoo, CrossBeam Builders, Drew Paints, Samco Sport, RacebikeBitz, Speedbox, Bonamici Racing, MotoMaster Brakes, NJK Leathers, Racer Gloves, Bell Helmets, Bickle Racing, Dymag Wheels, Rottweiler Performance, and JLC Concrete.
 
About Competition Werkes: 
 
Competition Werkes is based out of Sutherlin, Oregon. They are known for high-quality aftermarket motorcycle accessories and slip-on exhausts. Each exhaust is hand-welded at their shop in Oregon. For more information about Competition Werkes, visit competitionwerkes.com
 
About Gray Area KTM:
 
Gray Area KTM is based out of Eugene, Oregon. They are a KTM, Husqvarna, Beta and Kramer Motorcycles dealership. They are an experienced KTM race shop who specializes in motorcycle road racing at a club and MotoAmerica level. In 2023 they supported Rossi Moor who finished 2nd overall in the Junior Cup Championship on a RC 390 R KTM. For more information about Gray Area, visit www.grayareaktm.com 
 

About Andy DiBrino

Andy DiBrino is a 29-year-old professional motorcycle racer from Tualatin, Oregon, who is a two-time RSD Super Hooligan National Champion, Nitro World Games winner, three-time OMRRA #1 plate holder, multi-time MotoAmerica race winner and podium finisher, as well as track record holder at Portland International Raceway. DiBrino is known for being one of the most versatile racers in the country, competing in road racing, motocross, flat track, and supermoto at professional level. Follow Andy on all of his socials:

Instagram: @andy_dibrino

Facebook: Andy DiBrino Racing

YouTube: Andy DiBrino

MotoAmerica: Max Van Moving Up To Supersport

Max Van during a recent test on his new Team Hammer-built Suzuki GSX-R750 Supersport machine. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.
Max Van during a recent test on his new Team Hammer-built Suzuki GSX-R750 Supersport machine. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.

MotoAmerica Junior Cup racer Max Van, age 18, is moving up the racing ladder and is entering the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship in 2024.

“I’m doing the full season in the MotoAmerica Supersport class aboard a Team Hammer-built Suzuki GSX-R750,” Van told Roadracingworld.com. “It will be a Team Hammer-supported program with technical information, etc.”

While some racers tend to move from the 50-horsepower Junior Cup bikes to 95-horsepower Twins Cup motorcycles, Van has made the decision to leapfrog the Twins Cup class and jump onto a 130-horsepower Supersport machine.

“Building out and maintaining a Twins Cup racebike, as you know, can be crazy expensive,” said Van, who has racked up three wins and nine total podium finishes during the past two Junior Cup Championship seasons. “Plus, I want to do the full nine-round season instead of just six.

“Plus, I’ve ridden the Suzuki a few times and it suits my style. I’m already a bigger guy as it is, so I don’t think I’ll have any problem riding the bigger bike.”

 

Max Van (48) testing his new Suzuki GSX-R750 at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.
Max Van (48) testing his new Suzuki GSX-R750 at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy SportbikeTrackGear.com.

 

Van will also have the advantage of working with rider coach Josh Hayes, the all-time AMA/MotoAmerica race win leader.

“Josh coached me all last year,” said Van, “but it was difficult for him because he had never ridden a small bike like mine, and riding that thing is completely different than riding a Supersport. But he’s going to be able to help me a lot more this season.”

Instead of competing in the 2024 Daytona 200, which is a MotoAmerica Supersport race that does not pay points toward the Championship, Van made the strategic decision to skip the spring classic in exchange for more testing time ahead of round one at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in April.

Van said that with support from SportbikeTrackGear.com (STG) he has everything in place to do the full season, but he is seeking more sponsorship, including a title sponsor, for his program.

MotoAmerica: Honda More Than Doubles Contingency Prizes For 2024

Geoff May (99), as seen in 2022 at Road Atlanta. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Geoff May (99), as seen on his Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in 2022 at Road Atlanta. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Editorial Note: American Honda has posted just under $2.8 million in contingency in MotoAmerica for the 2024 season plus contingency with 13 other road racing organizations.

 

Honda Offers Most Red Rider Rewards Ever for 2024 MotoAmerica Racing

Industry’s most generous MotoAmerica package in Superbike, Stock 1000

Over $1 million available for Red Rider road racers in 2024

American Honda announced today that it will offer the powersports industry’s most generous Red Rider Rewards payouts for MotoAmerica’s Superbike and Stock 1000 classes for 2024. The new season of the AMA’s professional road racing national championship will see Red Riders competing for an available total of over $1 million across the series’ top categories, with additional payouts going to the Mini Cup series. This is Honda’s richest racing-contingency offering ever for MotoAmerica—well over twice as high as the 2023 season!

At each round, the program offers payments to Red Riders in the top 10 finishing positions in MotoAmerica’s top two classes, including a whopping $25,000 for a Superbike win and $10,000 for a Stock 1000 victory. That said, Red Rider Rewards don’t just benefit racers who battle at the front of the pack, as a 10th place result pays out $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.

“It’s been exciting to see MotoAmerica continue to improve their program, and the series is really hitting its stride,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing & Experiential Marketing at American Honda. “Road racing plays an important role in Honda’s heritage, including a rich record of success in AMA-sanctioned competition. That being the case, we’re excited to significantly increase our offerings for Superbike and Stock 1000 racers of our CBR sport bikes. In addition, we’re pleased to support tomorrow’s stars with our offerings in the Mini Cup series. We’re confident that Red Riders will enjoy their best MotoAmerica season ever in 2024, and we look forward to rewarding them for their efforts.”

Of course, Honda’s Red Rider Rewards program also continues to offer generous payouts in other disciplines this year, including motocross, Supercross, SuperMotocross, off-road, and ATV and side-by-side competition.

For more information, visit the Honda Powersports website.

Revzilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki NHRA Team Announced

A computer rendering of a Revzilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki Hayabusa drag race bike. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.
A computer rendering of a Revzilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki Hayabusa drag race bike. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.

REVZILLA/MISSION/ VANCE & HINES SUZUKI TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT

Indianapolis, IN – January 17, 2024 – Thrilling Team Announcement! Vance & Hines Motorsports is gearing up for an epic 2024 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Championship season with a powerhouse lineup! 

 

Gaige Herrera, the 2023 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.
Gaige Herrera, the 2023 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.

 

Returning champion Gaige Herrera, fresh off his 2023 NHRA Pro Stock triumph, is set to defend his title on the RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki. With a record-breaking 11 wins last season, Herrera is ready to face the competition head-on. Joining forces with Herrera is seasoned racer Richard Gadson [nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson], making his rookie debut in NHRA Pro Stock after securing titles in various circuits. Gadson, with Eddie Krawiec as his full-time crew chief alongside Andrew Hines, is set to add his expertise to the team.

 

Richard Gadson, the nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.
Richard Gadson, the nephew of drag racing legend Ricky Gadson. Image courtesy Vance & Hines.

 

About Vance & Hines Motorsports

Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica.

About Revzilla

Revzilla is a leading online retailer specializing in motorcycle gear and accessories. Known for its extensive selection, expert customer service, and commitment to rider satisfaction, Revzilla is a trusted destination for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking top-quality products.

 

WorldSBK: Date Of Season Finale Changed

Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, in Spain. Photo by Polarity Photo, courtesy KTM.
Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, in Spain. Photo by Polarity Photo, courtesy KTM.

New dates for 2024 Prometeon Spanish Round

Jerez will once again play host to the final of the 2024 WorldSBK season, with an adjustment to the initially slated dates.
 

Responding to the dynamic demands of the local events calendar and the request of the township of Jerez de la Frontera, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and WorldSBK agreed to delay this year’s curtain closer by one week.
 

The Prometeon Spanish Round is now scheduled to unfold on October 18th-20th at the famed Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto.

 

MOTUL_FIM_Superbike_World_Championship_2024_Calendar_updated_17_January

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “New Year’s Special – The Big Machine Roundup”

Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.

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 “New Year’s Special – The Big Machine Roundup.”

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

 

From the Oxley Bom Podcast:

Earth has finished another lap around the sun, again not breaking it’s record of 365 days. But while the Big Blue Marble isn’t going to change speed any time soon, the same can’t be said for the bikes in MotoGP. 

 So today, at very edge between 2023 and 2024, Mat and Peter dust off their crystal balls to take a peak at what the future holds for all our favorite competitors. We’re going through the bikes of 2024, machine by machine, and see what we can expect of them. So cheers to the new year, and enjoy!

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!  

R.I.P. Anthony Gobert (Updated)

Anthony Gobert at Road America in 2001. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
Anthony Gobert at Road America in 2001. Photo by Larry Lawrence.

Former AMA Pro, World Superbike, and 500cc Grand Prix racer Anthony Gobert has died at age 48. The talented star was brilliant on a racebike and a fan favorite but struggled with alcohol and drug addiction throughout his career. Survivors include his mother (and manager) Suzanne and younger brothers Aaron and Alex.

Godspeed Anthony Gobert.

 

Suzanne Gobert posted the following earlier Wednesday on social media:

“My heart is breaking as I write this as my first born beautiful son Anthony has passed late this afternoon [Australian time] I loved him from the moment he was born until the day I die. At times he was challenging, to say the least, but he always had a kind heart and cared for everyone. Sadly, he was a victim of addiction, which runs deeply in our families. He tried many times to get better, but he couldn’t quite make it. I am so proud of him and thank all those good people who added to his life. You know who you are.”

 

Alex Gobert posted the following on his social media:

My eldest brother was my first proper hero. In a lot of ways, his influence on my childhood and our connection to the sport still stands strong to this day and I genuinely treasure those early memories. I always will.

Hopefully, especially for his sake, we can all celebrate the better times in his life, the moments beyond the immense struggles and also take the time to recognise once again that both addiction and mental health battles are very real, very difficult obstacles to overcome.

Thank you to all who have extended their thoughts and shared memories.

 

Read MotoGP Editor Max Oxley’s obituary for Anthony Gobert HERE.

MRA Expands 2024 Schedule To Eight Rounds

The Novice GTO grid at a previous Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) event. Photo by Kelly Vernell, courtesy MRA.
The Novice GTO grid at a previous Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) event. Photo by Kelly Vernell, courtesy MRA.

MRA Announces 2024 Racing Schedule and New Racer School.

Denver, CO – The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) is excited to announce the schedule for the 2024 racing season. The season begins with our New Racers School on April 12-13, welcoming participants of all skill levels, under the guidance of our experienced instructors. For 2024, we have introduced some key updates to our racing calendar:

Additional Racing Round: We’ve expanded the season to include an 8th round, offering more opportunities for racers to compete for a championship title.

Double Points in Round 7: To add a strategic element to the championship, round 7 will feature double points.

New 2-Hour Endurance Race: Following the success of our 4-hour endurance race, a 2-hour endurance event has been added to round 6, providing a new challenge for our racers.

We look forward to a season of competitive racing and invite fans and racers alike to join us for these exciting events.

 

April 12-13 – New Racers School

– Friday night classroom – Location TBD

– Saturday on-track training at High Plains Raceway (backup date: April 27)

 

May 11-12 – Round 1

– High Plains Raceway (North Course)

 

May 25-26 – Round 2

– Pueblo Motorsports Park

 

June 8-9 – Round 3

– Pueblo Motorsports Park

 

June 29-30 – Round 4

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course) + Annual 4-Hour Endurance

 

July 20-21 – Round 5

– High Plains Raceway (West Course)

 

August 10-11 – Round 6

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course) + 2-Hour Endurance

 

August 31 – September 1 – Round 7

*Double-Points Weekend*

– High Plains Raceway (North Course)

 

September 28-29 – Round 8

– High Plains Raceway (Full Course)

 

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information and to learn about our upcoming 2024 season, please go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.

 

 

 

UtahSBA Going Back To Two-Day Race Events In 2024

Anthony Norton (83) en-route to extending his Moto United/Moto Station King of the Mountains win streak to three. Photo courtesy UtahSBA.
Anthony Norton (83) enroute to extending his Moto United/Moto Station King of the Mountains win streak to three. Photo by Steve Midgley, courtesy UtahSBA.

The Utah SportBike Association (UtahSBA) is excited to announce its 2024 Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains Superbike Race Series as well as its Supermoto Race Series to be held at Utah Motorsports Campus. For 2024 we are pleased to announce the return of two-day superbike racing! New racers are able to get on the track for as little as $100 and reciprocity licenses are available for most organizations throughout the country. As in years past, our friends at Apex Trackdays will be holding a track day on the Friday before each round. See the schedule below for a complete list of dates and head over to Utahsba.com or find us on Facebook to answer any questions.

 

Superbike

Round 1: May 4-5

Round 2: May 25-26

Round 3: July 6-7

Round 4: August 3-4

Round 5: September 14-15

New Racer Certification School: April 20th

Advance Rider Training: TBD

Super Moto

Round 1: April 28th

Round 2: May 19th

Round 3: June 23rd

Round 4: August 18th

Round 5: September 8th

Round 6: September 29th

MotoAmerica: Vance & Hines Announces New Title Sponsor

Hayden Gillim (79) on his Vance & Hines/Mission Foods Harley-Davidson during the 2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Championship, which he won. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Hayden Gillim (79) on his Vance & Hines/Mission Foods Harley-Davidson during the 2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Championship, which he won. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Vance & Hines Motorsports, a leading force in the world of motorcycle racing, is excited to announce motorcycle gear, parts and accessories leader RevZilla is set to be the title sponsor of V&H Motorsports’ teams in both NHRA drag racing and MotoAmerica road racing for the next two years. This marks the first time in over 50 years of competition that all Vance & Hines’ racing programs will fall under one title sponsorship umbrella.

Founded in 2007 as an online retailer of motorcycle gear, parts and accessories, RevZilla is now owned by parent company Comoto Holdings. In addition to its industry leading online presence, RevZilla also has retail stores in Newport Beach, Denver, and Philadelphia.

“In all of our years of racing, we’ve never had one company serve as a title sponsor for all of our racing activities,” said Vance & Hines Motorsports owner Terry Vance. “RevZilla has stepped up to be the major sponsor of our programs in both NHRA and MotoAmerica and we know they will be the perfect title-sponsorship partner. We’re excited about the new relationship, and we can’t wait to go racing with RevZilla onboard for the next two years.”

“We wanted to expose the RevZilla brand to a whole new audience and Vance & Hines Motorsports has presented the perfect platform to do that,” said Comoto’s Chief Marketing Officer and RevZilla President Steve Bontempo. “As title sponsor of Vance & Hines Motorsports, RevZilla will be introduced to fans of NHRA and MotoAmerica in the best possible light. We’re looking forward to an exciting 2024 and 2025 at drag strips and racetracks across the country.”

Vance & Hines Motorsports, who will continue to partner with Mission Foods, Harley-Davidson and Suzuki, will be announcing its teams for the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and the 2024 MotoAmerica Championship in the coming days.

MotoAmerica: DiBrino Returning To SHNC With Competition Werkes Gray Area KTM

Andy DiBrino (62) in action during the 2023 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan season. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Andy DiBrino (62) in action during the 2023 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan season. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
MotoAmerica: Competition Werkes Gray Area KTM Team Announcement 
 
Andy DiBrino is back for the 2024 MotoAmerica RSD Super Hooligan National Championship (SHNC) with support from Competition Werkes, Gray Area KTM and KTM USA. DiBrino finished third overall in the 2023 championship with a win at Ridge Motorsports Park and five other podium finishes.
 
Here is what Andy had to say about his 2024 team:
 
“I have a few announcements to make! First off, I am excited to be merging my racing efforts together with Paxton Gray at Gray Area KTM. We share a passion for racing KTMs and I look forward to working with him on my race bikes this season! Next, Competition Werkes is coming back on-board with me this year, this time as the title sponsor for my Super Hooligan campaign. I can’t thank Shawn and Ward enough for the help. It is awesome to have another Oregon-based business behind my back! And finally, I’m really looking forward to having Mark Price join my dad as pit crew this season. Mark placed fifth overall in the Super Hooligan series last year with a podium to his credit. Not only is he a great rider and coach, he is a handyman when it comes to working on these KTMs and he has some valuable experience to offer. There is a lot of changes in my program and it has me excited to get out there at Daytona and get after it. My goal is to improve on last year’s results and win the championship!” 
 
 
Andy DiBrino (left) with Gray Area's Paxton Gray (right). Photo courtesy Andy DiBrino Racing.
Andy DiBrino (left) with Gray Area’s Paxton Gray (right). Photo courtesy Andy DiBrino Racing.
 
 
Andy would like to thank all of his personal sponsors:
 
Oregon Motorcycle Attorney, Dunlop Tires, Motul, ODI Grips, SKDA Moto, Precision Iron Works, Motosport Hillsboro, Kramer Motorcycles, See See Motorcycles, Superlite Sprockets, K-Tech Suspension, Orient Express Racing, Bellissimoto, ASV Inventions, Ever True Tattoo, CrossBeam Builders, Drew Paints, Samco Sport, RacebikeBitz, Speedbox, Bonamici Racing, MotoMaster Brakes, NJK Leathers, Racer Gloves, Bell Helmets, Bickle Racing, Dymag Wheels, Rottweiler Performance, and JLC Concrete.
 
About Competition Werkes: 
 
Competition Werkes is based out of Sutherlin, Oregon. They are known for high-quality aftermarket motorcycle accessories and slip-on exhausts. Each exhaust is hand-welded at their shop in Oregon. For more information about Competition Werkes, visit competitionwerkes.com
 
About Gray Area KTM:
 
Gray Area KTM is based out of Eugene, Oregon. They are a KTM, Husqvarna, Beta and Kramer Motorcycles dealership. They are an experienced KTM race shop who specializes in motorcycle road racing at a club and MotoAmerica level. In 2023 they supported Rossi Moor who finished 2nd overall in the Junior Cup Championship on a RC 390 R KTM. For more information about Gray Area, visit www.grayareaktm.com 
 

About Andy DiBrino

Andy DiBrino is a 29-year-old professional motorcycle racer from Tualatin, Oregon, who is a two-time RSD Super Hooligan National Champion, Nitro World Games winner, three-time OMRRA #1 plate holder, multi-time MotoAmerica race winner and podium finisher, as well as track record holder at Portland International Raceway. DiBrino is known for being one of the most versatile racers in the country, competing in road racing, motocross, flat track, and supermoto at professional level. Follow Andy on all of his socials:

Instagram: @andy_dibrino

Facebook: Andy DiBrino Racing

YouTube: Andy DiBrino