MotoGP: Alex Marquez And Marc Marquez, Face To Face (Video)

David Swarts

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January 11, 2024

MotoGP: Alex Marquez And Marc Marquez, Face To Face (Video)

Marc Márquez and Alex Márquez, face to face

After the 2024 presentation of the main ambassadors of Estrella Galicia 0,0 in the MotoGP World Championship as new teammates, Marc and Alex, Alex and Marc, analyzed their chances in the season that is about to begin.

After the multitudinous presentation to the media of Marc and Alex Márquez as Estrella Galicia 0,0 ambassadors for another year in the MotoGP World Championship, this season also as teammates in the Gresini Racing MotoGP team, the two brothers agreed to a more familiar interview to talk about the challenge with Ducati, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of competing to the maximum against a tough rival to whom, as a human being, you also have indissoluble emotional ties.

Q. You both shared the garage back in 2020, riding for Honda. You Alex were just a rookie and Marc was the reigning champion. How do you both feel about this new chapter in your racing careers?

AM73: “Excited, isn’t it?”

MM93: “Excited, optimistic. Of course, it’s a new chapter, especially in my career. The project is exciting and motivation is super high, but I also feel especially calm. I made a very important decision. I chose a way and we will see if it’s the good one or not in the future, but the project is to try to find again that motivation and that racing spirit in the races, and fight for a good position.”

AM73: “For me, it will be my second year with Gresini team, but it will be very special to share again the team with Marc, as he will be a very good rival, also for the team and for myself in order to achieve the next level and become more consistent. He’s a world champion, so he’ll fast for sure. We need to be there and take a profit from his experience to achieve a great level, work together or, as I said, to achieve great things for the team.”

Q. If you are both in a position to fight for victory against each other, do you think there will be any limits or will it be a fight to the maximum as it would be with any other rider? Is there any room for family concessions on this new scene?

MM93: “If we’re fighting, we’re fighting…” (Laughs).

AM73: “Yeah, exactly” (Laughs). Yeah, it’s like this. Well, I’m sure you have a little more respect. Maybe not respect, but you will overtake and think: “Ok, if I make any mistake, I better leave some room to let him go” or something like that, but in the end, if you’re on track fighting for a victory, you just try to find the best way for yourself.”

MM93: “Yeah, I agree with that. Of course, overtaking on the last lap is always critical, even if it’s your brother or any other rider, but if he is also your teammate, you have to be extra careful with the situation. We showed in 2022 that if we were fighting for a seventh position, it wasn’t even for a victory, we fought each other like if it was with any other rider, and this is also important, the spirit, because in the end he’s my brother and my teammate but also another opponent.”

Q. How far do you think each other can go this season?

AM73: “As he said, he made a very important change in his career. He knew he had a great opportunity to go back to the top level, but it will also be his first year on a Ducati, on a new bike, so for sure he will have some ups and downs. We need to see, and he needs to see. In the preseason he will see what he needs to improve more, if he struggles or not, if the strong points he had on last year’s bike are also useful in this bike… For sure, he’ll be fast and will put the rest of us in difficulties. Anyway, it will be great to see how far he is going with this new bike.”

MM93: “For me, Alex already showed last season that he can fight for victory. Now, the most difficult thing or the most important thing is trying to understand if he can be constantly in that position or if he has some ups and downs. His clear target is trying to be in the top eight or six on every race, that would be good. Of course, if he can fight for more, it will be welcome, but it’s better to have low expectations now because we still have to make the preseason and, after that, you will be able to realize more which goal you can approach to. The second part of last season from Alex, after his injury in India, was super good. I was fighting for victory in Malaysia, he won two sprint races and he was constantly on the front two rows (of the grid), on qualifying sessions too, also racing with the top five…, so it will be good for me to have a teammate like him in order to learn how to ride the Ducati.”

AM73: “I don’t have any doubts that he will achieve the level because he already showed it. Of course, he needs to take care at the beginning of the season because there are a lot of Ducati riders in Ducati with more experience than him with this bike. He can be a bit stronger, see if he can score good points in the first few races and make a season stepping forward, then he’ll be in the fight. But, as he said, it’s too early at the moment to have any expectations.”

What’s Happening At The Harley-Davidson Museum In January?

David Swarts

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January 11, 2024

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What’s Happening At The Harley-Davidson Museum In January?

The new year brings new ways to experience the Harley-Davidson Museum

Become a tourist in your hometown when Milwaukee Museum Days returns this month.

MILWAUKEE, USA (Jan. 11, 2024) – Resolve to explore more in 2024! Jan. 18 marks the return of Milwaukee Museum Days. The H-D Museum is proud to be among the 30 area attractions looking to highlight the meaningful impact museums have on our residents, tourism in Wisconsin and the local economy. Get tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10*! Score admission from free up to $15 to explore your favorite museum or discover a hidden gem you’ve been wanting to explore from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24 at the H-D Museum).

And with the thought in mind that too much of a good thing is just enough, MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant has already kicked off Carnival season! See below for mouthwatering Mardi Gras specials that are available now through Fat Tuesday and laissez les bons temps rouler! MOTOR is also excited to partner with Third Space Brewery for a Beer Social on February 16. Enjoy five beers and food pairings as well as a take-away gift bag that includes a $5 MOTOR gift card, a limited-edition Harley-Davidson® 120th Anniversary pint glass and Third Space swag! Purchase tickets now.

Hoop heads, there’s still time to hop on the Marquette Golden Eagles bandwagon before the madness. There are nine more chances to hear directly from the head coach of the No. 11 men’s basketball team in the nation as Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant return in January.

Also this month, get ready for the dawn of a new era. Join us for the premiere of Harley‑Davidson’s all-new 2024 motorcycle model lineup on Jan. 24.

Please also note that aside from MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant (which will remain open seven days a week, Sun – Wed, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thu – Sat, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.) and private events hosted by 1903® Events, the H-D Museum™ campus will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in January and February of 2024. Additionally, the H-D® Shop will be closed Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 for inventory.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS

Milwaukee Museum Days, Jan. 18 – 22 & 24 – 28

One more reason to love Milwaukee. During its 10-day run, 30 museums will offer discounted admission, special programming and more during Milwaukee Museum Days. Running Jan. 18 – 28, immerse yourself in some of Milwaukee’s incredible museums, experiencing everything from the innovative hands-on exhibits at Discovery World to the whimsical National Bobblehead Museum and Hall of Fame, the roaring fun of the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum to the wide-open spaces of the Lynden Sculpture Garden. With admission discounts at up to 30 museums, you’ll soon discover that there’s always more to explore in the 414. Score tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10* from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24).

And on Jan. 19, join Lubar Center Director Derek Mosley for a conversation about Milwaukee Museum Days and the state of funding for museums and the arts in Wisconsin at Marquette University’s On the Issues forum.

*Mention Milwaukee Museum days and receive one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Adult General Admission pass per adult for $10 and one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Child General Admission pass per child under the age of 18 for $5 (kids under 5 are free). Valid from January 18, 2024, through 28, 2024 for in-person use at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Not valid for online purchases or previous H-D Museum purchases. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer can be changed at any time without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

“The Marquette Basketball Hour” with Shaka Smart, select Thursdays, 6 – 7 p.m., Nov. 30 – March 7

MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum is the place to be for all Marquette fans this season. Join us on select Thursdays at 6 p.m. when men’s basketballs Head Coach Shaka Smart, Jen Lada and players will break down all the Marquette action. Don’t miss Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant on the Harley-Davidson Museum® campus to support the defending Big East Champions.

Annual Pass

Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Annual Pass Level for Community Partners

Coming in 2024: Public Libraries, community centers and youth organizations will be able to purchase a Harley-Davidson Museum Annual Pass for check-out and use by the community members they serve. For additional information about this Annual Pass (Community Partner Level), please call 414-287-2789.

Guided Tours

Get closer to the artifacts, exhibits and stories with a guided tour of the H-D Museum! There are three specially designed tours in our experience portfolio:
The VIP Tour is ideal for special guests and special occasions
Our Beyond the Gate Tour takes guests into the motorcycle vault
Everyone will love the Spotlight Tour, which is a perfect intro to the story of Harley-Davidson

Group bookings are available for 2-50 guests. Call 414-287-2799 or email [email protected] for reservations. Check out the tour calendar for public tour availability, too.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 10:15 a.m. and Sundays at 2:15 p.m.)

All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be launched by our merit badge counselor. Then, scouts will explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date.

Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, welcome and orientation by program facilitator, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)

This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” (on display now)

The Mama Tried® Motorcycle Show and adjoining Flat Out Friday races are a bright spot in the dead of cold, Wisconsin winters. The show has amassed an army of followers and fans that give the weekend its signature style: People are the heart of the show; the bikes are the social lubrication. The Harley-Davidson Museum’s special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together,” focuses on the builders, the racers and the fans that gather over a bike or a brew.

A riot of bikes awaits you: outrageous custom bikes, lovingly restored vintage machines and one as rare as hen’s teeth – 1929 FHAC with FLXI Sidecar Factory Racer. Don’t come alone; bring your crew. That’s what Mama Tried is about, after all. Check out the exhibit before Mama Tried and Flat Out Friday make their triumphant returns in February, then make plans to kick off the weekend at the Official Mama Tried Pre-Party on Feb 22 at the H-D Museum. And hear directly from David Kreidler, curator of the exhibit, on the Mama Tried podcast.

1972 Custom Sprint 350 Single (on display now)

J. Shia’s unconventional 1972 350cc Sprint custom just went on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Inspired by Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet “Swan Lake,” Shia designed a dual bike project to reflect both the contrast and parallels of the black and white swans. The “white swan” can now be found at the H-D Museum. Shia’s build style for this project is unique in both function and materials, which she designed and fabricated all out of her Boston-based shop, Madhouse Motors. Shia incorporated unexpected parts from other products to create the bike: The headlight is the projector from a microscope and the taillight is a pencil sharpener. The carburetor intake is a modified juicer, and the foot-pegs are stove handles, while the turbocharger’s exhaust is a soprano saxophone bell. This amazing build is a symbol of ingenuity in moto customization and needs to be seen to be believed.

“My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (on display now)

From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine. With brilliant, colorful art from Peña paired with heart-warming stories from Southern Californian riding families, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” will draw smiles from kids of all ages. It’s an exhibit that focuses not only on where you can take a motorcycle, but where a two-up motorcycle ride with a loved one can take you.

Experience Gallery (on display now)

With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new 2023 Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride! And now you can hop in the saddle of the newest, CVO™ Road Glide®, Breakout®, Road Glide® Trike, Pan America® Special and Nightster® motorcycles – the perfect photo op to commemorate your visit.

The H-D Museum @ 15 (on display now)

The Harley-Davidson Museum opened its doors for the first time in 2008. With 130,000 square-feet of factory-like buildings that honor Milwaukee’s industrial heritage and 20 acres of park-like space to gather, the H-D Museum was over 100 years in the making. Explore more about the construction and grand opening in a new display at the H-D Museum entrance.

Long-Time Riders: Lee & Pearl (on display now)

At the H-D Museum entrance, a new case featuring two long-time Wisconsin riders is on display. Lee and Pearl Christopherson have been together since meeting on a motorcycle in 1958. Lee was a member of the Blue Knights, a group of active or retired law enforcement officers. While Lee can’t begin to guess how many miles he’s ridden over 76 years, Pearl has kept track of her time in the saddle and surpassed 175,000 miles in the summer of 2023. The display features Pearl’s Motor Maids shirt and vest along with a Blue Knights Club vest from Lee, and the couple’s H.O.G.® patch and pin collection.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. This exhibition will close in March, so make tracks to see “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” before it hits the road.

Harley-Davidson® Shop + H-D® Factory Outlet

New year … new looks for you! And both the H-D® shop and the Factory Outlet got the goods for your wardrobe in 2024. Bundle up against the cold with flannels, hats, coats and more!

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT

We’re starting off 2024 with inspiration from New Orleans! In anticipation of Mardi Gras, we’re offering a slate of Big Easy bites and cocktails. We’ll have these on offer though Fat Tuesday, February 13.

Feisty Crawdad Dip

Spicy Cajun crawfish and andouille sausage dip served warm with Empress Baking paprika and polenta crackers and grilled garlic bread.

Smoked Kickin’ Chicken Wings

One pound smoked jumbo chicken wings, tossed in a house blackening rub and fried. Served with blue cheese remoulade, celery & carrot sticks.

Muffuletta Salad

Salami, Black Forest ham, Mortadella, Provolone with marinated olive, carrot, red bell pepper and red onion, crispy olive oil bread croutons on a bed of romaine lettuce drizzled with remoulade.

Cajun Shrimp Po’boy

Grilled blackened shrimp, fried oysters and fried jalapeno with shredded romaine, sliced tomato and roasted red pepper remoulade on grilled garlic baguette. Served with french fries.

“Laissez les bons temps rouler” Beignets

A NOLA classic, fried choux pastry dusted with powdered sugar and served with warm chocolate sauce for drizzling or dipping … or slurping … we don’t judge.

Cocktail specials include a MOTOR Cup (a twist on the Pimm’s cup), a Cherrycane (a play on a Hurricane) and a Dark and Snowy (our version of the Dark & Stormy).

Tunemaster Bingo, Fridays, 6 p.m.

Compete for awesome prizes as Tunemaster Bingo takes over MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant on Friday nights. Enjoy beer and food specials – including the AYCE Fish Fry – as you listen to 30-second clips of iconic, popular songs and simply match them to the ones on your BINGO card they have.

1903® Events

Recently engaged? 1903® Events will host an intimate showcase on Sunday, Feb. 4, featuring a curated selection of vendors to showcase their services to newly engaged couples. We’ll be showing off our newest event space, The Garage as well as our second-floor wedding space, Rumble. Learn more and RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1903-events-wedding-showcase-tickets-772407269937

MotoAmerica: Mini Cup Qualifiers Scheduled In Nevada, Northern California

David Swarts

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January 11, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Mini Cup Qualifiers Scheduled In Nevada, Northern California

MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul Qualifiers Now Set For Nevada And Northern California

Young Racers Can Attempt To Qualify For National Final Via Four New Regional Qualifiers

IRVINE, CA (January 11, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce the continuing expansion of the Mission Mini Cup By Motul qualifiers as Northern Nevada Kart Club (NNKC) will host four series qualifiers at racetracks in Nevada and Northern California.

The qualifiers will feature all of the Mission Mini Cup By Motul classes – GP160, GP190, Street GP, Stock 50, Stock 110 and Stock 125 – with young racers earning points to qualify for the Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, August 9-11.

NNKC will hold qualifiers at Desert Park Raceway in Reno, Nevada (April 27-28), Little 99 in Stockton, California (May 25-26), Shasta Kart Track in Redding, California (June 29-30) and Kinsmen Kart Track in Dixon, California (July 20-21).

“NNKC Minimoto is delighted to include the MotoAmerica Mini Cup in our 2024 Sierra Nevada Moto Championship season,” said NNKC President Jeremy Callendar. “This will be our fourth season of operation, and we are excited to have MotoAmerica trust us with their newest generations of racers. We are working alongside three additional tracks and will be supporting the full list of Mission Mini Cup By Motul classes: GP160, GP190, Street GP, Stock 50, Stock 110 and Stock 125.”

For more information about the Mini Cup series or club participation, please contact [email protected]

About MotoAmerica

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

MotoAmerica: Travis Wyman Joins Lewis, West On Team Saddlemen

David Swarts

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January 10, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Travis Wyman Joins Lewis, West On Team Saddlemen

Saddlemen’s Race Development team is excited to announce that it will compete in the 2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers and the Mission Super Hooligan series. Building on the success of the 2023 season, Saddlemen will continue to partner with Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle and Mission Foods as they prepare for what looks to be a very competitive eight-round Bagger and four-round Hooligan series in 2024.

In 2024, veteran riders Cory West and Jake Lewis will continue to represent Team Saddlemen along with a new rider, Tavis Wyman. Travis is a talented rider, and we are excited about the dynamic he will bring to this year’s team.

Cory West #13, Jake Lewis #85, and Travis Wyman #10 will each ride a race-prepped 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide® Limited motorcycle. Wrapped in matching Saddlemen race carbon-fiber bodywork and powered by a Screamin’ Eagle Twin-Cooled™ 131ci Milwaukee-Eight powertrain in the Mission King Of The Baggers class.

All three riders will also compete this season in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan Series. New for 2024 each will be riding a stripped-down and highly modified Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 featuring Saddlemen’s latest carbon-fiber race body work.

For 2024 Patricia Fernandez-West will step away from riding and assume the role of Director of Operations, heading up team logistics, sponsorship, and media, and John Sanders will assume the responsibilities of Team Manager.

In 2024 Team Saddlemen’s Road Glide® motorcycles will use the recently available factory-developed racing parts from Harley-Davidson and Screamin’ Eagle. We are confident it will be an exciting year with talented and experienced riders, partners, and sponsors, including Harley-Davidson, Screamin’ Eagle, Mission Foods, Drag Specialties, Motul, Darkhorse Motor Company, Bell Helmets, Barnett Clutches, Regina Chain, K&N Filter, Suicide Machine Company, NAMZ Custom Cycle Products, and 4SR.

Saddlemen is an American company based in Long Beach, California, specializing in motorcycle seats and luggage. Known as the “Gel Seat Experts” since 1987, our goal has been to improve comfort, control, and overall riding experience for millions of motorcyclists worldwide.

With over 200 employees, we are riders and builders who enjoy practically everything motorcycle. Over the last 35 years, the Saddlemen team has participated in everything from Flat Track to MotoGP. Ads many people already know, racing is one of the best places to test new products, and at Saddlemen, every trip to the racetrack or smooth ride on the open road is an opportunity to refine the products we are proud to share with our customers.

Anthony Gobert Receiving End-Of-Life Care In Australia

David Swarts

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January 10, 2024

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Anthony Gobert Receiving End-Of-Life Care In Australia

Former racer Anthony “The Go Show” Gobert, age 48, is currently hospitalized with an undisclosed illness in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, and is receiving end-of-life care, according to his family.

The following was posted by Gobert’s middle brother, former racer Aaron Gobert, Wednesday on Facebook:

“It is with sadness that we have to announce that Anthony is currently hospitalized in palliative care and is in the final stages of his life following a short illness – please be aware that we will provide any available updates in due course. During this difficult time, the videos of Anthony being distributed during what has been an extremely troubled period of his life are deeply concerning, however, on behalf of Anthony, we must thank his many supporters from throughout his racing career.”

Anthony Gobert won Supercross and Superbike Championships in Australia, won seven World Superbike races, won 11 AMA Pro Superbike races, and took six top-10 race finishes in the 500cc GP World Championship. And he did so in flamboyant style that garnered him many fans worldwide.

Away from the track and TV cameras Gobert was kind, generous, and very funny.

Gobert last raced professionally in the Australian Superbike Championship in 2007.

One year later, Gobert was charged with two counts of “stealing” and served time in prison.

Throughout his life Gobert struggled with alcohol and drug abuse. In 1997, Gobert lost his ride with the Suzuki factory 500cc Grand Prix team after failing a drug test, and in more recent times, Gobert’s substance abuse led to legal problems and him becoming homeless.

We will post more information as it becomes available.

Alpinestars Launches New Tech-Air 7x Autonomous Airbag System

David Swarts

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January 10, 2024

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Alpinestars Launches New Tech-Air 7x Autonomous Airbag System

ALPINESTARS – TECHNICAL PREVIEW TECH-AIR® 7x

THE NEW GENERATION OF AUTONOMOUS ELECTRONIC AIRBAG SYSTEMS

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW, LAS VEGAS – Alpinestars has redefined protection for motorcyclists ever since the company was established in 1963, and today sees the brand launching Tech-Air® 7x, the all-new, autonomous motorcycling airbag system.

Tech-Air® 7x is the latest addition to the Alpinestars Tech-Air® family, which includes the Tech-Air® 10, Tech-Air® 5, Tech-Air® 3, and Tech-Air® OFF-ROAD systems. Alpinestars continues to lead the way in active air-bag technology for riders and their passengers. The all-new Tech-Air® 7x is a definitive demonstration of Alpinestars’ continued commitment to making the most versatile airbag technology products in the industry.

The Tech-Air®7x system was developed for Road Racing competitions, with full coverage protection focused on the upper body. (Full-Back, Full-Chest, Collar Bones, and Shoulders) The Tech-Air®7x system replaces the Tech-Air® RACE, with the latest innovations coming from the Alpinestars research and development team. This autonomous system complements the existing range Tech-Air® 10, Tech-Air® 5, and Tech-Air® 3 systems.

Like the Tech-Air® RACE, one of the key features of the Tech-Air® 7x is its integration (via attachment) to Alpinestars Tech-Air® compatible garments for increased practicality and comfort with select Alpinestars racing leather suits and jackets. Tech-Air® 7x is also compatible with garments as a stand-alone Tech-Air® vest (Similar to Tech-Air® 5) with a converter kit included in the package.

The Tech-Air® 7x supports dual deployments with the end user being able to replace the canisters for the first four deployments before sending it in for full service and airbag bladder replacement.

A convenience feature of Tech-Air® 7x is the USB-C charging port located in the activation flap on the chest. It’s easily accessible even when the system is integrated inside a suit or jacket.

Over 20 years ago, Alpinestars began development on the original Tech-Air® system. When launched in the market in 2011, the Tech-Air® system was recognized as the world’s first airbag providing full upper body protection with a completely independent electronic management system, in addition to having the versatility of the vest which could be easily zipped into a variety of Tech-Air® compatible jackets. In December 2019, Tech-Air® 5 was recognized by CES as one of the must-see innovative products in the Wearables Technology Marketplace.

ABOUT ALPINESTARS

Alpinestars was established in 1963 and is the world-leading manufacturer of professional racing products, motorcycling airbag protection, high-performance apparel, and technical footwear. Alpinestars understands that the best design and research are achieved under extreme conditions. The company’s involvement in Formula 1, NASCAR, AMA, World Motocross, and MotoGP has led to the creation of the most advanced technical equipment for the racing world’s top athletes. ALPINESTARS PROTECTS.

MotoGP: 75th Anniversary Will Be Celebrated Throughout 2024

David Swarts

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January 10, 2024

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MotoGP: 75th Anniversary Will Be Celebrated Throughout 2024

75 years: MotoGP™ celebrates throughout 2024!

The celebrations begin as our 75th anniversary season gets ready to make more history

Wednesday, 10 January 2024

The chequered flag at the 2023 finale saw MotoGP™ complete 75 full seasons of competition since the world’s most exciting sport was born in 1949. To mark the occasion in Valencia, we revealed the logo for the 75th anniversary that will now take centre stage as we celebrate throughout the 2024 season – which is now just around the corner.

There will be more milestones along the way too, including the 75th anniversary of the very first race that counted towards the world championship classification – the 350cc race on the Isle of Man in 1949 – on the 13th of June. Then it’s the anniversary of the first premier class race, which was on the 17th of June 1949.

So as we get ready for the test ban to lift and engines to roar back into life for 2024, it’s time to start celebrating! Head to our all-new 75th anniversary page to check out some of the best content from then and now, with plenty more to be added throughout the season. First stop: some of the biggest stats from across 75 years of incredible racing, kicking off #MotoGP75 in style!

The Grands Prix

We celebrated GP1000 at Le Mans in 2023, so by the start of 2024, there have been 1015 Grands Prix staged since the start of the World Championship in 1949, comprising 3371 races for solo classes.

The Champions

126 riders have become World Champions – many more than once. The rider with most world titles is Giacomo Agostini with 15, followed by Angel Nieto (12 + 1), Mike Hailwood (9), Valentino Rossi (9) and Carlo Ubbiali (9). Another name could add theirs in 2024: Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) has eight Championships on the way in…

The Winners

399 riders have won Grands Prix in solo classes – so reaching 400 in 2024 seems not only plausible or possible, but likely. The most recent maiden GP winner is Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) after his Moto3™ victory at Sepang.

The Manufacturers

Honda is the most successful manufacturer in Grand Prix racing (solo classes) with 821 wins followed by Yamaha (520), Aprilia (297), MV Agusta (275) and Kalex (176).

The Countries

30 nationalities have won solo Grand Prix races. Italy has the most wins, 888, followed by Spain on 722.

30 countries have staged Grands Prix too. The most recent country to debut on the calendar is India, with Buddh International Circuit welcoming MotoGP™ for the first time in 2023. 2024 sees Kazakhstan set to become country 31!

Throughout pre-season we’ll take a deeper dive into some of those numbers, so stay tuned for more as we look back on an incredible legacy and look forward to a record-breaking 2024 calendar just around the corner!

Verge Adds More Technology To Its Electric Motorcycles

David Swarts

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January 9, 2024

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Verge Adds More Technology To Its Electric Motorcycles

Editorial Note: The TS Ultra, Verge’s flagship electric motorcycle, is claimed to have a power output of 201 horsepower and 885 lbs.-ft. of torque, a range of up to 233 miles (373 km), and the ability to fast-charge in as little as 25 minutes.

Verge Motorcycles: “The Verge TS Ultra is the world’s first motorcycle with the sense of sight”

Verge Motorcycles has upgraded its flagship model with both hardware and software that make motorcycling safer than before. All Verge TS Ultra motorcycles now feature cameras and radars that use artificial intelligence and machine learning. New displays guarantee the rider a clear and informative overall view.

Electric superbike manufacturer Verge Motorcycles has announced that it has updated the hardware and software of its flagship TS Ultra model. The motorcycle now has six cameras and high-resolution front and rear radars. The upgraded Verge TS Ultra replaces the previous version, and customers who have already placed an order will automatically receive their bike with the new features.

The Verge TS Ultra is propelled by a rim-mounted motor powered by a 21.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Photo courtesy Verge Motorcycles.

In November, the company unveiled its Starmatter software and intelligence platform with four different elements: automatic over-the-air updates (OTA), sensor technology, artificial intelligence and a Human-Machine-Interface (HMI). This package has now been completed with the advanced machine vision announced today, Starmatter Vision. With new functionalities, Verge is the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to bring these advanced safety features to motorcycling. Besides the standard features, such as traction control and ABS brakes, Verge’s bikes have a low center of gravity, which enhances the control of the bike making the riding experience safer.

“Verge is making riding even smarter and safer, for example by improving the rider’s ability to observe the environment and the functions of the bike with the help of artificial intelligence and machine learning. The TS Ultra’s new cameras combined with the software update announced today make it the world’s first motorcycle equipped with the sense of sight, advising the rider and acting as a ‘whisperer’ while riding,” describes Verge CTO Marko Lehtimäki.

Starmatter Vision allows safety alerts to be displayed on the dashboard of the Verge TS Ultra. Photo courtesy Verge Motorcycles.

Autonomous driving has been a feature in the automotive industry for years already, but in motorcycling it is not a realistic or achievable goal in the same way. Riding a two-wheeler also comes with various restrictions and practical challenges that can cause safety risks. In addition, the helmet reduces visibility and dampens the sounds of the surrounding traffic. Verge believes that the solution can be found in technology and wants to promote not only riding comfort but also safety by utilizing new innovations. With the updated hardware and software, the bike analyses the environment and notifies the rider, for example, of a vehicle approaching from behind or if it changes lane.

Renewed display technology revolutionizes the way the rider interacts with the bike

The Verge TS Ultra now also features updated displays. The display on top of the tank is larger than before, which makes it easier to use. The new Starmatter Dash display and user interface that was unveiled today revolutionizes the way the rider interacts with the bike. The new dash makes managing essential functions easier and more intuitive, it informs and warns of potential hazards, and it displays the image from the rear view camera when the rider uses the turn signal, for example.

The Verge TS Ultra comes with a 245/45-ZR17 rear tire. Photo courtesy Verge Motorcycles.

“Verge is developing the world’s most advanced electric superbikes that focus on the riding experience. We do not want to compromise on that. Starmatter Dash provides a visual and intuitive interface, which gives the rider a clear real-time view of the bike’s features and status at a glance,” says Mark Laukkanen, VP of User Experience at Verge Motorcycles.

Renewed Verge TS Ultra and Starmatter Vision can be seen for the first time at CES [Consumer Electronics Show] in Las Vegas January 9–12, 2024.

AMA Hall Of Famer Tom Heininger, R.I.P.

David Swarts

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January 9, 2024

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Tom Heininger Passes Away at 97

Heininger co-founded Webco and served as president of the Motorcycle Industry Council

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association sends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of motorcycle industry titan and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Tom Heininger, who passed away Monday [January 8] at the age of 97.

As the co-founder of Webco, a popular motorcycle aftermarket and accessory company in the 1960s and 1970s, Heininger’s impact on the motorcycle industry was immense. Beyond his duties at Webco, Heininger served as president of the Motorcycle Industry Council in 1972 and played an influential role in the formation of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation during his tenure.

“Tom brought a tremendous amount of spirit, enthusiasm and value to the motorcycle industry as it was evolving in the 1960s and ’70s,” AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer JR Kelley previously said of Heininger. “He added greatly to the business for the benefit of all. Tom loved motorcycling. He made money from it and put a lot of that back into the industry.”

Born in Los Angeles on Sept. 28, 1926, Heininger followed a similar path to his father, who worked in the auto parts business throughout his life. After serving aboard a submarine during World War II, Heininger entered the auto industry and worked for Offenhauser, a major automobile racing parts business at the time.

While at Offenhauser, Heininger met Bob Hughes and they became fast friends before forming Webco together in 1954. In the early days of the company, Webco primarily focused on manufacturing high-quality racing engine parts for motorcycles, but the brand later expanded to include all forms of aftermarket accessories and apparel.

A few years after its creation, Webco began sponsoring local racers from Southern California, which helped the brand grow to global markets. Heininger and Hughes also opened a pair of Honda dealerships in Los Angeles during the 1960s. During the decade, Heininger and Hughes also formed a nightly radio show during Daytona Bike Week with AMA announcer Roxy Rockwood.

Concurrently with his business pursuits in the 1960s, Heininger also worked to further the motorcycle industry by serving on the board of the Motorcycle, Scooter and Allied Trades Association (MS&ATA) during the decade — which the AMA formed out of in 1924. Heininger continued to offer his services after the MS&ATA merged with the California Motorcycle Safety Council to form the MIC in 1969, while the organization became an important entity in the federal fight for motorcycle rights.

As president of the MIC in 1972, Heininger used his connections with dealerships across the country to adequately defend their rights. Through these relationships, Heininger helped get the ball rolling on the MSF’s creation, and the organization grew to become a major force for rider education and training.

Heininger was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2003 and remained involved in motorcycling for the rest of his life.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

American Flat Track: Bender Riding GOMR Indian In SuperTwins

David Swarts

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January 9, 2024

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American Flat Track: Bender Riding GOMR Indian In SuperTwins

GOMR Signs Rookie of the Year Declan Bender for Mission SuperTwins Duty

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 9, 2024) – GOMR (Grumpy Old Men Racing) is pleased to announce the signing of reigning Progressive American Flat Track Rookie of the Year Declan Bender to compete in the 2024 Mission SuperTwins championship aboard an Indian FTR750.

Bender turned pro in 2023 on the heels of a stellar amateur career that saw him earn 10 AMA Flat Track Grand Championships and more than 60 race victories among a host of other achievements. He then proved himself a frontrunner from the very start of his maiden Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER season, qualifying seventh at the ‘23 Daytona opener.

Bender continued to improve as he gained experience throughout the season. The Cooksville, Illinois, native ended the year in outstanding form, securing a sixth and two sevenths over the season’s final four Main Events, which propelled him to Rookie of the Year honors.

GOMR will once again enjoy significant support from BriggsAuto.com as the team’s biggest sponsor with additional backing from Martin Trucking and Precision Body Works. Johnny and Sarah Goad will continue to helm the GOMR operation with Johnny serving as Crew Chief and Sarah in the role of Team Manager. Tom Draina and Buddy Pulliam are back to assist in turning the wrenches, while Miriam Pulliam and Dick Tibbits will provide additional support.

Sarah Goad said, “Family has always been an important aspect of our racing program and that tradition continues with our children and grandchildren (Caylee, Raylynn, Raye and Clara) present to lend a hand or just root us on. I also think this makes Declan a great fit, as he and his father, Mike, have accomplished so much working as a rider/dad team throughout Declan’s career. Declan is an exciting young rider. He has a huge future in the sport, and we believe he’ll be a contender for Mission SuperTwins Rookie of the Year honors in 2024.

“I also want to thank Russ and Ilene Briggs of BriggsAuto.com, CD Martin of Martin Trucking, and Buddy and Miriam Pulliam of Precision Body Works. It’s only through their support that we are able to continue competing in this sport we love.”

Bender said, “I am beyond excited for the opportunity that Russ Briggs and the Goads have given me this year. Their deep roots and knowledge in the sport are all I could ask for and more. I am ready to give it everything I’ve got this season and look forward to building on the success that I ended with in ‘23.”

MotoGP: Alex Marquez And Marc Marquez, Face To Face (Video)

January 11, 2024

Gresini Racing Ducati teammates and brothers Alex Marquez (left) and Marc Marquez (right). Photo courtesy Estrella Galicia.

Marc Márquez and Alex Márquez, face to face

After the 2024 presentation of the main ambassadors of Estrella Galicia 0,0 in the MotoGP World Championship as new teammates, Marc and Alex, Alex and Marc, analyzed their chances in the season that is about to begin.

After the multitudinous presentation to the media of Marc and Alex Márquez as Estrella Galicia 0,0 ambassadors for another year in the MotoGP World Championship, this season also as teammates in the Gresini Racing MotoGP team, the two brothers agreed to a more familiar interview to talk about the challenge with Ducati, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of competing to the maximum against a tough rival to whom, as a human being, you also have indissoluble emotional ties.

Q. You both shared the garage back in 2020, riding for Honda. You Alex were just a rookie and Marc was the reigning champion. How do you both feel about this new chapter in your racing careers?

AM73: “Excited, isn’t it?”

MM93: “Excited, optimistic. Of course, it’s a new chapter, especially in my career. The project is exciting and motivation is super high, but I also feel especially calm. I made a very important decision. I chose a way and we will see if it’s the good one or not in the future, but the project is to try to find again that motivation and that racing spirit in the races, and fight for a good position.”

AM73: “For me, it will be my second year with Gresini team, but it will be very special to share again the team with Marc, as he will be a very good rival, also for the team and for myself in order to achieve the next level and become more consistent. He’s a world champion, so he’ll fast for sure. We need to be there and take a profit from his experience to achieve a great level, work together or, as I said, to achieve great things for the team.”

Q. If you are both in a position to fight for victory against each other, do you think there will be any limits or will it be a fight to the maximum as it would be with any other rider? Is there any room for family concessions on this new scene?

MM93: “If we’re fighting, we’re fighting…” (Laughs).

AM73: “Yeah, exactly” (Laughs). Yeah, it’s like this. Well, I’m sure you have a little more respect. Maybe not respect, but you will overtake and think: “Ok, if I make any mistake, I better leave some room to let him go” or something like that, but in the end, if you’re on track fighting for a victory, you just try to find the best way for yourself.”

MM93: “Yeah, I agree with that. Of course, overtaking on the last lap is always critical, even if it’s your brother or any other rider, but if he is also your teammate, you have to be extra careful with the situation. We showed in 2022 that if we were fighting for a seventh position, it wasn’t even for a victory, we fought each other like if it was with any other rider, and this is also important, the spirit, because in the end he’s my brother and my teammate but also another opponent.”

Q. How far do you think each other can go this season?

AM73: “As he said, he made a very important change in his career. He knew he had a great opportunity to go back to the top level, but it will also be his first year on a Ducati, on a new bike, so for sure he will have some ups and downs. We need to see, and he needs to see. In the preseason he will see what he needs to improve more, if he struggles or not, if the strong points he had on last year’s bike are also useful in this bike… For sure, he’ll be fast and will put the rest of us in difficulties. Anyway, it will be great to see how far he is going with this new bike.”

MM93: “For me, Alex already showed last season that he can fight for victory. Now, the most difficult thing or the most important thing is trying to understand if he can be constantly in that position or if he has some ups and downs. His clear target is trying to be in the top eight or six on every race, that would be good. Of course, if he can fight for more, it will be welcome, but it’s better to have low expectations now because we still have to make the preseason and, after that, you will be able to realize more which goal you can approach to. The second part of last season from Alex, after his injury in India, was super good. I was fighting for victory in Malaysia, he won two sprint races and he was constantly on the front two rows (of the grid), on qualifying sessions too, also racing with the top five…, so it will be good for me to have a teammate like him in order to learn how to ride the Ducati.”

AM73: “I don’t have any doubts that he will achieve the level because he already showed it. Of course, he needs to take care at the beginning of the season because there are a lot of Ducati riders in Ducati with more experience than him with this bike. He can be a bit stronger, see if he can score good points in the first few races and make a season stepping forward, then he’ll be in the fight. But, as he said, it’s too early at the moment to have any expectations.”

What’s Happening At The Harley-Davidson Museum In January?

January 11, 2024

The Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

The new year brings new ways to experience the Harley-Davidson Museum

Become a tourist in your hometown when Milwaukee Museum Days returns this month.

MILWAUKEE, USA (Jan. 11, 2024) – Resolve to explore more in 2024! Jan. 18 marks the return of Milwaukee Museum Days. The H-D Museum is proud to be among the 30 area attractions looking to highlight the meaningful impact museums have on our residents, tourism in Wisconsin and the local economy. Get tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10*! Score admission from free up to $15 to explore your favorite museum or discover a hidden gem you’ve been wanting to explore from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24 at the H-D Museum).

And with the thought in mind that too much of a good thing is just enough, MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant has already kicked off Carnival season! See below for mouthwatering Mardi Gras specials that are available now through Fat Tuesday and laissez les bons temps rouler! MOTOR is also excited to partner with Third Space Brewery for a Beer Social on February 16. Enjoy five beers and food pairings as well as a take-away gift bag that includes a $5 MOTOR gift card, a limited-edition Harley-Davidson® 120th Anniversary pint glass and Third Space swag! Purchase tickets now.

Hoop heads, there’s still time to hop on the Marquette Golden Eagles bandwagon before the madness. There are nine more chances to hear directly from the head coach of the No. 11 men’s basketball team in the nation as Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant return in January.

Also this month, get ready for the dawn of a new era. Join us for the premiere of Harley‑Davidson’s all-new 2024 motorcycle model lineup on Jan. 24.

Please also note that aside from MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant (which will remain open seven days a week, Sun – Wed, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thu – Sat, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.) and private events hosted by 1903® Events, the H-D Museum™ campus will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in January and February of 2024. Additionally, the H-D® Shop will be closed Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 for inventory.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS

Milwaukee Museum Days, Jan. 18 – 22 & 24 – 28

One more reason to love Milwaukee. During its 10-day run, 30 museums will offer discounted admission, special programming and more during Milwaukee Museum Days. Running Jan. 18 – 28, immerse yourself in some of Milwaukee’s incredible museums, experiencing everything from the innovative hands-on exhibits at Discovery World to the whimsical National Bobblehead Museum and Hall of Fame, the roaring fun of the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum to the wide-open spaces of the Lynden Sculpture Garden. With admission discounts at up to 30 museums, you’ll soon discover that there’s always more to explore in the 414. Score tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10* from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24).

And on Jan. 19, join Lubar Center Director Derek Mosley for a conversation about Milwaukee Museum Days and the state of funding for museums and the arts in Wisconsin at Marquette University’s On the Issues forum.

*Mention Milwaukee Museum days and receive one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Adult General Admission pass per adult for $10 and one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Child General Admission pass per child under the age of 18 for $5 (kids under 5 are free). Valid from January 18, 2024, through 28, 2024 for in-person use at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Not valid for online purchases or previous H-D Museum purchases. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer can be changed at any time without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

“The Marquette Basketball Hour” with Shaka Smart, select Thursdays, 6 – 7 p.m., Nov. 30 – March 7

MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum is the place to be for all Marquette fans this season. Join us on select Thursdays at 6 p.m. when men’s basketballs Head Coach Shaka Smart, Jen Lada and players will break down all the Marquette action. Don’t miss Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant on the Harley-Davidson Museum® campus to support the defending Big East Champions.

Annual Pass

Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Annual Pass Level for Community Partners

Coming in 2024: Public Libraries, community centers and youth organizations will be able to purchase a Harley-Davidson Museum Annual Pass for check-out and use by the community members they serve. For additional information about this Annual Pass (Community Partner Level), please call 414-287-2789.

Guided Tours

Get closer to the artifacts, exhibits and stories with a guided tour of the H-D Museum! There are three specially designed tours in our experience portfolio:
The VIP Tour is ideal for special guests and special occasions
Our Beyond the Gate Tour takes guests into the motorcycle vault
Everyone will love the Spotlight Tour, which is a perfect intro to the story of Harley-Davidson

Group bookings are available for 2-50 guests. Call 414-287-2799 or email [email protected] for reservations. Check out the tour calendar for public tour availability, too.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 10:15 a.m. and Sundays at 2:15 p.m.)

All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be launched by our merit badge counselor. Then, scouts will explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date.

Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, welcome and orientation by program facilitator, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)

This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” (on display now)

The Mama Tried® Motorcycle Show and adjoining Flat Out Friday races are a bright spot in the dead of cold, Wisconsin winters. The show has amassed an army of followers and fans that give the weekend its signature style: People are the heart of the show; the bikes are the social lubrication. The Harley-Davidson Museum’s special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together,” focuses on the builders, the racers and the fans that gather over a bike or a brew.

A riot of bikes awaits you: outrageous custom bikes, lovingly restored vintage machines and one as rare as hen’s teeth – 1929 FHAC with FLXI Sidecar Factory Racer. Don’t come alone; bring your crew. That’s what Mama Tried is about, after all. Check out the exhibit before Mama Tried and Flat Out Friday make their triumphant returns in February, then make plans to kick off the weekend at the Official Mama Tried Pre-Party on Feb 22 at the H-D Museum. And hear directly from David Kreidler, curator of the exhibit, on the Mama Tried podcast.

1972 Custom Sprint 350 Single (on display now)

J. Shia’s unconventional 1972 350cc Sprint custom just went on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Inspired by Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet “Swan Lake,” Shia designed a dual bike project to reflect both the contrast and parallels of the black and white swans. The “white swan” can now be found at the H-D Museum. Shia’s build style for this project is unique in both function and materials, which she designed and fabricated all out of her Boston-based shop, Madhouse Motors. Shia incorporated unexpected parts from other products to create the bike: The headlight is the projector from a microscope and the taillight is a pencil sharpener. The carburetor intake is a modified juicer, and the foot-pegs are stove handles, while the turbocharger’s exhaust is a soprano saxophone bell. This amazing build is a symbol of ingenuity in moto customization and needs to be seen to be believed.

“My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (on display now)

From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine. With brilliant, colorful art from Peña paired with heart-warming stories from Southern Californian riding families, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” will draw smiles from kids of all ages. It’s an exhibit that focuses not only on where you can take a motorcycle, but where a two-up motorcycle ride with a loved one can take you.

Experience Gallery (on display now)

With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new 2023 Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride! And now you can hop in the saddle of the newest, CVO™ Road Glide®, Breakout®, Road Glide® Trike, Pan America® Special and Nightster® motorcycles – the perfect photo op to commemorate your visit.

The H-D Museum @ 15 (on display now)

The Harley-Davidson Museum opened its doors for the first time in 2008. With 130,000 square-feet of factory-like buildings that honor Milwaukee’s industrial heritage and 20 acres of park-like space to gather, the H-D Museum was over 100 years in the making. Explore more about the construction and grand opening in a new display at the H-D Museum entrance.

Long-Time Riders: Lee & Pearl (on display now)

At the H-D Museum entrance, a new case featuring two long-time Wisconsin riders is on display. Lee and Pearl Christopherson have been together since meeting on a motorcycle in 1958. Lee was a member of the Blue Knights, a group of active or retired law enforcement officers. While Lee can’t begin to guess how many miles he’s ridden over 76 years, Pearl has kept track of her time in the saddle and surpassed 175,000 miles in the summer of 2023. The display features Pearl’s Motor Maids shirt and vest along with a Blue Knights Club vest from Lee, and the couple’s H.O.G.® patch and pin collection.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. This exhibition will close in March, so make tracks to see “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” before it hits the road.

Harley-Davidson® Shop + H-D® Factory Outlet

New year … new looks for you! And both the H-D® shop and the Factory Outlet got the goods for your wardrobe in 2024. Bundle up against the cold with flannels, hats, coats and more!

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT

We’re starting off 2024 with inspiration from New Orleans! In anticipation of Mardi Gras, we’re offering a slate of Big Easy bites and cocktails. We’ll have these on offer though Fat Tuesday, February 13.

Feisty Crawdad Dip

Spicy Cajun crawfish and andouille sausage dip served warm with Empress Baking paprika and polenta crackers and grilled garlic bread.

Smoked Kickin’ Chicken Wings

One pound smoked jumbo chicken wings, tossed in a house blackening rub and fried. Served with blue cheese remoulade, celery & carrot sticks.

Muffuletta Salad

Salami, Black Forest ham, Mortadella, Provolone with marinated olive, carrot, red bell pepper and red onion, crispy olive oil bread croutons on a bed of romaine lettuce drizzled with remoulade.

Cajun Shrimp Po’boy

Grilled blackened shrimp, fried oysters and fried jalapeno with shredded romaine, sliced tomato and roasted red pepper remoulade on grilled garlic baguette. Served with french fries.

“Laissez les bons temps rouler” Beignets

A NOLA classic, fried choux pastry dusted with powdered sugar and served with warm chocolate sauce for drizzling or dipping … or slurping … we don’t judge.

Cocktail specials include a MOTOR Cup (a twist on the Pimm’s cup), a Cherrycane (a play on a Hurricane) and a Dark and Snowy (our version of the Dark & Stormy).

Tunemaster Bingo, Fridays, 6 p.m.

Compete for awesome prizes as Tunemaster Bingo takes over MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant on Friday nights. Enjoy beer and food specials – including the AYCE Fish Fry – as you listen to 30-second clips of iconic, popular songs and simply match them to the ones on your BINGO card they have.

1903® Events

Recently engaged? 1903® Events will host an intimate showcase on Sunday, Feb. 4, featuring a curated selection of vendors to showcase their services to newly engaged couples. We’ll be showing off our newest event space, The Garage as well as our second-floor wedding space, Rumble. Learn more and RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1903-events-wedding-showcase-tickets-772407269937

MotoAmerica: Mini Cup Qualifiers Scheduled In Nevada, Northern California

January 11, 2024

MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup by Motul racers Michael Galvis (38) and Brayden Fager (73) in action Friday on the Liberator kart track at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica. — MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup by Motul racers Michael Galvis (38) and Brayden Fager (73) in action in 2023. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.

MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul Qualifiers Now Set For Nevada And Northern California

Young Racers Can Attempt To Qualify For National Final Via Four New Regional Qualifiers

IRVINE, CA (January 11, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce the continuing expansion of the Mission Mini Cup By Motul qualifiers as Northern Nevada Kart Club (NNKC) will host four series qualifiers at racetracks in Nevada and Northern California.

The qualifiers will feature all of the Mission Mini Cup By Motul classes – GP160, GP190, Street GP, Stock 50, Stock 110 and Stock 125 – with young racers earning points to qualify for the Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, August 9-11.

NNKC will hold qualifiers at Desert Park Raceway in Reno, Nevada (April 27-28), Little 99 in Stockton, California (May 25-26), Shasta Kart Track in Redding, California (June 29-30) and Kinsmen Kart Track in Dixon, California (July 20-21).

“NNKC Minimoto is delighted to include the MotoAmerica Mini Cup in our 2024 Sierra Nevada Moto Championship season,” said NNKC President Jeremy Callendar. “This will be our fourth season of operation, and we are excited to have MotoAmerica trust us with their newest generations of racers. We are working alongside three additional tracks and will be supporting the full list of Mission Mini Cup By Motul classes: GP160, GP190, Street GP, Stock 50, Stock 110 and Stock 125.”

For more information about the Mini Cup series or club participation, please contact [email protected]

About MotoAmerica

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

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