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Historic Racing: Between The Hedges, In The December Issue

Featured In the December 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

 

        The article titled ‘The Way It Was’ in last year’s December issue concluded with mention of ‘real’ road racing on public roads. This two-part article will cover the 1970s experiences I had at such an event and how it compared to the same event in 2017. 

        By the early 1970s I was working as a designer at Norton in Wolverhampton, England and competing in club and occasional National races. Unlike some, natural road race talent was not part of my DNA but with persistence and careful machine preparation my results improved. 

        Like most sports, as your performance improves you get noticed by those who are also climbing the ladder. What many of us had in common was competing on closed road circuits in Ireland and on the Isle of Man. As a young motorcycle racing nut, I had first visited the Isle of Man in 1969 to help out a couple of friends competing in the Manx Grand Prix, an amateur race held on the TT circuit in August. Like the TT, the Manx GP was a two-week event with practice and races…

            “Historic Racing: Between The Hedges, Part One,” by Mick Ofield

 

            What was it like to show up to race at the Southern 100 as an open road racing rookie in 1967? Mick Ofield remembers that experience in great detail, and he shares those memories of what it was like when a legend like Joey Dunlop was sponsored by a dumpster rental service! Read about it in the latest issue of Roadracing World!       

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

Click here for a sample issue of Roadracing World magazine. (Print Edition, one sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

PREVIEW  December 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the December 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

Holiday Gift Guide: Pirelli & Metzeler Tires

Pirelli & Metzeler Tires

Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC3 V4 tires are designed for street and track use without the need for tire warmers, and they’re the highest-performing street-legal tire line Pirelli has. Utilizing technology derived directly from the Superbike World Championship, riders can feel the performance whether on the street or at a track day. Available from Pirelli road racing tire vendors, with prices starting at $320 per set.

Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires are designed for track riders and club-level racers who want the advantages of running slicks without having to use tire warmers or change suspension settings. They’re available from moto-garage.com with prices starting at $317 a set.

 

Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires. Photo courtesy Metzeler.
Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires. Photo courtesy Metzeler.

Canadian Superbike: Bagger Racing League Joining Series At CTMP

Bagger Racing League heads to CTMP alongside CSBK in 2024

Toronto, ON – The Bagger Racing League (BRL) will be making its first trip north of the border next season, partnering with the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship to run the very first Bagger event at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 9-11, 2024.

Launched in 2021, BRL has capitalized on a massive market of bagger racing fans in the United States with three exciting seasons of racing, including a pair of three-round campaigns in 2022 and 2023. Comparatively, bagger racing has yet to debut officially in Canada, despite the success of BRL across the continental U.S. 

That will now change during the fourth round of the 2024 CSBK season, as members of BRL are expected to head north to CTMP (just an hour east of Toronto) and join their Canadian counterparts at the special one-off event. 

“Created just three years ago, BRL is proud to announce that we will become the first American Bagger series to race in Canada,” said founder Rob Buydos. 

Featuring originally equipped V-Twin engines and based on traditional touring machines, the bagger series has largely been open to Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle competitors, and their rivalry will now continue at “Old Mosport.”

Shane Narbonne won the Bagger Racing League championship for a third consecutive time in 2023 for Trask Performance Harley-Davidson after taking four victories in five races, including the season finale in Willow Springs last month. 

Amongst the possible entries could be current CSBK star Sam Guerin, who has found success doing double-duty with BRL in the Pro Stock Bagger class, earning a trio of second-place finishes and finishing third in the overall championship this season. 

BRL will be the latest class to hit the famed CTMP circuit, known as “Canada’s Home of Motorsport.” The 3.957 km Grand Prix layout (2.459 miles) features ten turns, dramatic elevation change, and the legendary Mario Andretti Straightaway. 

The fourth round of the 2024 Bridgestone CSBK calendar will head to CTMP on August 9-11, launching the annual “Bike Week” festivities at the circuit, with seven other national classes set to run across three days in the penultimate round of the season, including the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike category.

More information on the BRL debut at CTMP will be provided at a later date.

AMA Supercross: Triumph Announces 2024 Rider Lineup

TRIUMPH RACING CONFIRMS 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS RIDERS

JOEY SAVATGY, JALEK SWOLL, AND EVAN FERRY TO COMPETE ABOARD ALL-NEW TRIUMPH TF 250-X

 

Gearing up for the highly anticipated first season of AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross competition in 2024, Triumph Racing can confirm that Joey Savatgy, Jalek Swoll, and Evan Ferry will compete on the all-new Triumph TF 250-X. With the gate drop on the new racing season just weeks away, the talented trio of racers are up to speed, and excited to make history as the first riders to compete in AMA SuperMotocross with Triumph Racing.

Leading the Triumph Racing team into American stadiums in 2024 to race AMA Supercross in the 250SX East category will be Jalek Swoll. The Floridian, who placed a career-best fifth overall in the 2021 250SX West series, is eager to improve upon that successful season. Arguably more impressive in Pro Motocross, the 23-year-old secured his first 250 Class overall win in 2021 and again visited the podium in 2023 underlining his outdoor racing capabilities. With the full support of Triumph Racing, Swoll has everything he needs to be a podium contender in both AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross in 2024.

Joining Jalek in racing in the 250SX East series will be Evan Ferry. Stepping up from the amateur ranks, where he enjoyed success with wins in Supercross Futures, and taking titles at the Loretta Lynn Amateur Nationals in 2020, Ferry will make his highly-anticipated professional debut with Triumph Racing. The 19-year-old’s rookie season will be one in which he learns the ropes of elite level racing.

When the Pro Motocross series kicks off in May, established star of the sport, Joey Savatgy, will compete for Triumph Racing in the 250 Class. With seven overall wins and 14 overall podium results to his name in the 250 Class, the experienced racer is a former title contender who is fully focused on a successful season in 2024.

During the last few months, all three riders have been training with former Pro Motocross champion, Mike Brown, in readiness for the upcoming season. With Mike having worked alongside one of the sport’s most influential trainers in recent years, as well as possessing a huge wealth of knowledge from his decades long international racing career, Brown’s expertise in physical fitness and race craft will undoubtedly be of huge benefit to all three riders in 2024.

Joey Savatgy:

“To be a part of Triumph Racing is very special. For where I’m at in my career, it gives me the opportunity to be back racing on factory equipment, which will allow me to prove to myself that I’m still capable of being a title contender. As the Triumph is an all-new bike, I expected it to take some time to get used to it, but it was actually quite quick and easy. In particular, the chassis has a soft feeling, and this makes the bike really easy and comfortable to ride. The base platform of the standard bike is a great place to work from and I’m excited to get started with this new chapter in my career.”

Jalek Swoll:

“I’m super excited to be a part of Triumph Racing. I’m starting a new chapter in my racing career with a great group of people and with the whole team, we’ve been putting in a lot of work. My first impressions of the bike were great. I feel really comfortable on it, and I know it’s capable of doing great things. I’ve been putting in the work with our team trainer, Mike Brown, just grinding away and I’m focused on the podium. There’s definitely going to be some fireworks when we get out there racing and it’s awesome to be writing a little piece of history with Triumph Racing. I’m ready to get racing and I’m excited for 2024.”

Evan Ferry:

“It really is an honor to be racing for such an awesome brand and their new race team. To be one of the first people to ride, let alone race, this new bike gives me an amazing feeling. I’m so excited to be racing this bike in 2024 and my expectations are to be battling with the other factory guys. The whole Triumph Racing team is great, and we have some of the best personnel and mechanics in the business. Overall, I’m super stoked to be a part of this program. I have everything I need to be successful, and I can’t wait for the new season to begin.”

Bobby Hewitt – Triumph Racing Team Manager:

“This is such an historic moment for Triumph Motorcycles and to be a part of this is a great honor. I’m really happy with our line-up for our first season bringing Triumph into the SuperMotocross series. Having Jalek, Evan, and Joey on the team, who have all worked with me before, has been very useful for working through our schedule of race development with the new TF 250-X, preparing for the upcoming season. With our three riders we have a solid starting line-up for our first season in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. 

Knowing and working with all of them for many years, I have a clear understanding of their experience and motivation to make this project a success. I’m also very excited to have Mike Brown as our official team trainer and Mike and I have known and worked together for many years. Mike has a wealth of knowledge as a rider and working with athletes at the highest level for many years. I’m very glad he’s onboard as part of our program.

Everyone on the team and at Triumph has been working exceptionally hard behind the scenes to bring everything together for the 2024 season. Really, everything has gone to plan, the only change I’ve had to make is to race 250SX East for the first year. My original plan was to have Joey on the west coast, as he has the most experience, with Jalek and Evan on the east coast. At the time, it was a decision I had to make even though it was before the final ruling by the Steering Committee regarding Joey’s eligibility. At the time, I felt very confident in my decision, but it didn’t go as we hoped, so obviously the plan changed.”

Ian Kimber, Head of Off-Road Programs, Triumph Motorcycles:

“Signing Joey, Jalek, and Evan as the first racers to join our Triumph Racing program is a massive step for the Triumph brand in America. Working with Bobby Hewitt and Steve Westfall, as well as the whole team that they have assembled, we really do have a great squad to demonstrate the capabilities of our new TF 250-X, in both AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. Also having Mike Brown on board as the team trainer highlights how serious we are about our US racing operations, and I’ve no doubt that he will have the riders in the best shape possible for 2024. When Jalek and Evan line up, it will mark the first time a Triumph motocross bike has lined up for an AMA Supercross event, and Triumph is excited to make history with both of them!”

Mike Brown, Team Trainer, Triumph Racing:

“So far, everything is looking really good within the team with the bikes, and the riders. Everyone at Triumph Racing has been working really hard and my role is to get all three riders ready for 2024, both physically and mentally. It’s been an exciting challenge, and everything is going really well. All three riders have everything they need to run up front next year and when we start racing supercross, I think we can contend for heat race wins and shoot for the top-five in the main events.”

Holiday Gift Guide: BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger

BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger

BLACK+GRAY’s line of heavy-duty hangers for leathers and riding suits are rated to support more than 150 pounds of gear, and can be adjusted to match shoulder width. They’re designed to help maintain the garment’s shape and aid more complete drying after use by supporting and opening the garment to air. Six versions are available, with optional clips to support individual pants and gloves as well as jackets, and without clips to support one-piece suits or jackets. Prices range from $44.50 to $118.00 from www.blackandgray.com/hangers and can also be ordered by phone at (800) 724-2193.

MotoAmerica: Alexander Riding Third Rahal Ducati In Supersport

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO ADDS THIRD BIKE TO  2024 SUPERSPORT PROGRAM
 
 
 

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (12.22.2023) – Team owners Bobby and Graham Rahal, who announced the formation of Rahal Ducati Moto just two months ago, confirmed today they are adding a third bike to their Rahal Ducati Moto (RDM) team.

2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, Corey Alexander will join the RDM stable aboard a Ducati Panigale V2 in the MotoAmerica Supersport class, alongside teammates PJ Jacobsen and Kayla Yaakov. However, his bike will carry a different primary sponsor, Kentucky-based Roller Die and Forming, a Custom Roll Form Manufacturing company.

The three-rider team, which has five-time AMA Champion, 2009 World Superbike Champion and MotoGP race winner Ben Spies as team principal, is set to make its mark in the upcoming MotoAmerica season, which commences with the 82nd running of the historic Daytona 200, a non-points-paying Supersport race that will take place at Daytona International Speedway, March 7-9.

Quotes:

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“After discussions with the team and our partners, we recognized that introducing a third bike to the RDM team would bring an advantage in our inaugural year in MotoAmerica. With three riders providing valuable feedback to the technicians, it accelerates our learning curve and boosts our overall competitiveness. Corey’s track record as a proven winner and champion reinforces our belief that incorporating this third bike will contribute to our success in the Supersport class.”

Ray Hammons, President of Roller Die and Forming:

“We have closely followed Corey’s journey over the past several years, always believing in his impressive talent. Our confidence in his abilities has only strengthened over time. Consequently, the decision to support Rahal Ducati Moto in fielding a third bike with Corey at the helm is not just a strategic move but underscores our commitment to fostering home-grown talent. We can’t wait to see Corey aboard his Ducati in Daytona in March!”

Ben Spies. Rahal Ducati Moto Team Principal:

“We’re really happy to announce Corey on the team and having a third bike will add another set of data points which can only be a positive. I’ve been friends with Corey for a while, he’s shown his talent in winning the Superstock Championship back in 2022, and everyone has a lot of respect for him and the Alexander name. We’re excited to put this all together.”

Corey Alexander:

“I’m super excited for the opportunity to join the Rahal family on this new endeavor in the MotoAmerica Supersport class. It’s been a long time since I’ve ridden a middleweight bike but I’m ready for the challenge and looking forward to being a part of the progression of this entire effort. I have to extend a special thanks to Ray and everyone at Roller Die & Forming for the tremendous support. It’s going to be a fun year alongside PJ and Kayla!”

Video: Go Behind The Scenes With Bagnaia During The 2023 MotoGP Finale

“#BACK2BACKgnaia: Ducati and Pecco’s Intense Showdown to MotoGP Glory”: the exclusive documentary about the 2023 MotoGP World Championship victory available starting today on Ducati and Pecco Bagnaia’s YouTube channels

The exclusive film, “#BACK2BACKgnaia: Ducati and Pecco’s Intense Showdown to MotoGP Glory”, is now accessible on the official Ducati and Pecco Bagnaia YouTube channels. Through never-before-seen footage and the words of the main protagonists, the video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the thrilling last Grand Prix for the 2023 MotoGP season held in Valencia, Spain, last November.

From the tight head-to-head battle with fellow Ducati rider Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team) to the World Championship triumph secured with another thrilling victory in Sunday’s race, and concluding with unseen footage of the celebrations, the documentary provides viewers with a unique perspective on the journey undertaken by Bagnaia and his team toward their second consecutive MotoGP World Title.

Produced by AM_Media and lasting around 15 minutes, the documentary will also be available in the coming days on the official MotoGP channels and Sky Sport MotoGP and will be distributed to major international television broadcasters.

Francesco Bagnaia (#1, Ducati Lenovo Team):

“The Valencia weekend was truly emotional, and it’s fantastic to relive it after almost a month through this video. Compared to last year, we really had to fight all the way to defend the World Title, and winning the race to achieve it was incredible. It’s also heartening to hear the voices and reactions of those who have been close to me and have experienced this intense season with me. I hope that all the fans watching this video can get excited and feel closer to us! Thanks to all the Ducatisti and my fans. Happy Holidays!”

 

Video: Jonathan Rea 2023 Winter Testing Vlog, E:4 – “Jerez Test Vlog”

Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.

This episode is “Jerez Test Vlog.”

 

Holiday Gift Guide: Woodcraft Hand And Toe Guards

Woodcraft Hand And Toe Guards

Woodcraft Technologies has goodies to spoil any racer (or yourself) this holiday season and into the start of 2024. MotoAmerica-approved hand guards are available individually or as a set in seven vibrant colors. The easily replaceable plastic guards help prevent accidental lever contact and also help protect hands and levers during a crash. They retail for $179.99 per set. Woodcraft’s Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes (and other parts) with a unique design developed to leave a minimum gap between the guard and the chain and a tapered face to deflect body parts away from the rear sprocket. It retails for $49.99. Woodcraft Technologies also offers gift cards starting at $50.00. Contact www.woodcraft-cfm.com to order from Woodcraft Technologies, Dept. 105, Baldwinville Rd. Winchendon, MA 01475, (978) 297-2977.

 

Woodcraft's Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.
Woodcraft’s Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “Interview – Show Me The Money!”

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 “Interview – Show Me The Money!”

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

Historic Racing: Between The Hedges, In The December Issue

Author Mick Ofield (170) accelerating out of Castletown Corner in 1976, in his debut ride at the Southern 100. 
Author Mick Ofield (170) accelerating out of Castletown Corner in 1976, in his debut ride at the Southern 100. 

Featured In the December 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

 

        The article titled ‘The Way It Was’ in last year’s December issue concluded with mention of ‘real’ road racing on public roads. This two-part article will cover the 1970s experiences I had at such an event and how it compared to the same event in 2017. 

        By the early 1970s I was working as a designer at Norton in Wolverhampton, England and competing in club and occasional National races. Unlike some, natural road race talent was not part of my DNA but with persistence and careful machine preparation my results improved. 

        Like most sports, as your performance improves you get noticed by those who are also climbing the ladder. What many of us had in common was competing on closed road circuits in Ireland and on the Isle of Man. As a young motorcycle racing nut, I had first visited the Isle of Man in 1969 to help out a couple of friends competing in the Manx Grand Prix, an amateur race held on the TT circuit in August. Like the TT, the Manx GP was a two-week event with practice and races…

            “Historic Racing: Between The Hedges, Part One,” by Mick Ofield

 

            What was it like to show up to race at the Southern 100 as an open road racing rookie in 1967? Mick Ofield remembers that experience in great detail, and he shares those memories of what it was like when a legend like Joey Dunlop was sponsored by a dumpster rental service! Read about it in the latest issue of Roadracing World!       

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

Click here for a sample issue of Roadracing World magazine. (Print Edition, one sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

PREVIEW  December 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the December 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

Holiday Gift Guide: Pirelli & Metzeler Tires

Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC3 V4 tires. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC3 V4 tires. Photo courtesy Pirelli.

Pirelli & Metzeler Tires

Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC3 V4 tires are designed for street and track use without the need for tire warmers, and they’re the highest-performing street-legal tire line Pirelli has. Utilizing technology derived directly from the Superbike World Championship, riders can feel the performance whether on the street or at a track day. Available from Pirelli road racing tire vendors, with prices starting at $320 per set.

Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires are designed for track riders and club-level racers who want the advantages of running slicks without having to use tire warmers or change suspension settings. They’re available from moto-garage.com with prices starting at $317 a set.

 

Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires. Photo courtesy Metzeler.
Metzeler Racetec TD Slick tires. Photo courtesy Metzeler.

Canadian Superbike: Bagger Racing League Joining Series At CTMP

Three-time BRL Bagger GP Champion Shane Narbonne (1). Photo by Tom Punchur, courtesy CSBK.
Three-time BRL Bagger GP Champion Shane Narbonne (1). Photo by Tom Punchur, courtesy CSBK.

Bagger Racing League heads to CTMP alongside CSBK in 2024

Toronto, ON – The Bagger Racing League (BRL) will be making its first trip north of the border next season, partnering with the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship to run the very first Bagger event at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 9-11, 2024.

Launched in 2021, BRL has capitalized on a massive market of bagger racing fans in the United States with three exciting seasons of racing, including a pair of three-round campaigns in 2022 and 2023. Comparatively, bagger racing has yet to debut officially in Canada, despite the success of BRL across the continental U.S. 

That will now change during the fourth round of the 2024 CSBK season, as members of BRL are expected to head north to CTMP (just an hour east of Toronto) and join their Canadian counterparts at the special one-off event. 

“Created just three years ago, BRL is proud to announce that we will become the first American Bagger series to race in Canada,” said founder Rob Buydos. 

Featuring originally equipped V-Twin engines and based on traditional touring machines, the bagger series has largely been open to Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle competitors, and their rivalry will now continue at “Old Mosport.”

Shane Narbonne won the Bagger Racing League championship for a third consecutive time in 2023 for Trask Performance Harley-Davidson after taking four victories in five races, including the season finale in Willow Springs last month. 

Amongst the possible entries could be current CSBK star Sam Guerin, who has found success doing double-duty with BRL in the Pro Stock Bagger class, earning a trio of second-place finishes and finishing third in the overall championship this season. 

BRL will be the latest class to hit the famed CTMP circuit, known as “Canada’s Home of Motorsport.” The 3.957 km Grand Prix layout (2.459 miles) features ten turns, dramatic elevation change, and the legendary Mario Andretti Straightaway. 

The fourth round of the 2024 Bridgestone CSBK calendar will head to CTMP on August 9-11, launching the annual “Bike Week” festivities at the circuit, with seven other national classes set to run across three days in the penultimate round of the season, including the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike category.

More information on the BRL debut at CTMP will be provided at a later date.

AMA Supercross: Triumph Announces 2024 Rider Lineup

Triumph's 2024 AMA Supercross and Motocross riders (from left) Jalek Swoll, Joey Savatgy, and Evan Ferry. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Triumph's 2024 AMA Supercross and Motocross riders (from left) Jalek Swoll, Joey Savatgy, and Evan Ferry. Photo courtesy Triumph.

TRIUMPH RACING CONFIRMS 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS RIDERS

JOEY SAVATGY, JALEK SWOLL, AND EVAN FERRY TO COMPETE ABOARD ALL-NEW TRIUMPH TF 250-X

 

Gearing up for the highly anticipated first season of AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross competition in 2024, Triumph Racing can confirm that Joey Savatgy, Jalek Swoll, and Evan Ferry will compete on the all-new Triumph TF 250-X. With the gate drop on the new racing season just weeks away, the talented trio of racers are up to speed, and excited to make history as the first riders to compete in AMA SuperMotocross with Triumph Racing.

Leading the Triumph Racing team into American stadiums in 2024 to race AMA Supercross in the 250SX East category will be Jalek Swoll. The Floridian, who placed a career-best fifth overall in the 2021 250SX West series, is eager to improve upon that successful season. Arguably more impressive in Pro Motocross, the 23-year-old secured his first 250 Class overall win in 2021 and again visited the podium in 2023 underlining his outdoor racing capabilities. With the full support of Triumph Racing, Swoll has everything he needs to be a podium contender in both AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross in 2024.

Joining Jalek in racing in the 250SX East series will be Evan Ferry. Stepping up from the amateur ranks, where he enjoyed success with wins in Supercross Futures, and taking titles at the Loretta Lynn Amateur Nationals in 2020, Ferry will make his highly-anticipated professional debut with Triumph Racing. The 19-year-old’s rookie season will be one in which he learns the ropes of elite level racing.

When the Pro Motocross series kicks off in May, established star of the sport, Joey Savatgy, will compete for Triumph Racing in the 250 Class. With seven overall wins and 14 overall podium results to his name in the 250 Class, the experienced racer is a former title contender who is fully focused on a successful season in 2024.

During the last few months, all three riders have been training with former Pro Motocross champion, Mike Brown, in readiness for the upcoming season. With Mike having worked alongside one of the sport’s most influential trainers in recent years, as well as possessing a huge wealth of knowledge from his decades long international racing career, Brown’s expertise in physical fitness and race craft will undoubtedly be of huge benefit to all three riders in 2024.

Joey Savatgy:

“To be a part of Triumph Racing is very special. For where I’m at in my career, it gives me the opportunity to be back racing on factory equipment, which will allow me to prove to myself that I’m still capable of being a title contender. As the Triumph is an all-new bike, I expected it to take some time to get used to it, but it was actually quite quick and easy. In particular, the chassis has a soft feeling, and this makes the bike really easy and comfortable to ride. The base platform of the standard bike is a great place to work from and I’m excited to get started with this new chapter in my career.”

Jalek Swoll:

“I’m super excited to be a part of Triumph Racing. I’m starting a new chapter in my racing career with a great group of people and with the whole team, we’ve been putting in a lot of work. My first impressions of the bike were great. I feel really comfortable on it, and I know it’s capable of doing great things. I’ve been putting in the work with our team trainer, Mike Brown, just grinding away and I’m focused on the podium. There’s definitely going to be some fireworks when we get out there racing and it’s awesome to be writing a little piece of history with Triumph Racing. I’m ready to get racing and I’m excited for 2024.”

Evan Ferry:

“It really is an honor to be racing for such an awesome brand and their new race team. To be one of the first people to ride, let alone race, this new bike gives me an amazing feeling. I’m so excited to be racing this bike in 2024 and my expectations are to be battling with the other factory guys. The whole Triumph Racing team is great, and we have some of the best personnel and mechanics in the business. Overall, I’m super stoked to be a part of this program. I have everything I need to be successful, and I can’t wait for the new season to begin.”

Bobby Hewitt – Triumph Racing Team Manager:

“This is such an historic moment for Triumph Motorcycles and to be a part of this is a great honor. I’m really happy with our line-up for our first season bringing Triumph into the SuperMotocross series. Having Jalek, Evan, and Joey on the team, who have all worked with me before, has been very useful for working through our schedule of race development with the new TF 250-X, preparing for the upcoming season. With our three riders we have a solid starting line-up for our first season in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. 

Knowing and working with all of them for many years, I have a clear understanding of their experience and motivation to make this project a success. I’m also very excited to have Mike Brown as our official team trainer and Mike and I have known and worked together for many years. Mike has a wealth of knowledge as a rider and working with athletes at the highest level for many years. I’m very glad he’s onboard as part of our program.

Everyone on the team and at Triumph has been working exceptionally hard behind the scenes to bring everything together for the 2024 season. Really, everything has gone to plan, the only change I’ve had to make is to race 250SX East for the first year. My original plan was to have Joey on the west coast, as he has the most experience, with Jalek and Evan on the east coast. At the time, it was a decision I had to make even though it was before the final ruling by the Steering Committee regarding Joey’s eligibility. At the time, I felt very confident in my decision, but it didn’t go as we hoped, so obviously the plan changed.”

Ian Kimber, Head of Off-Road Programs, Triumph Motorcycles:

“Signing Joey, Jalek, and Evan as the first racers to join our Triumph Racing program is a massive step for the Triumph brand in America. Working with Bobby Hewitt and Steve Westfall, as well as the whole team that they have assembled, we really do have a great squad to demonstrate the capabilities of our new TF 250-X, in both AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. Also having Mike Brown on board as the team trainer highlights how serious we are about our US racing operations, and I’ve no doubt that he will have the riders in the best shape possible for 2024. When Jalek and Evan line up, it will mark the first time a Triumph motocross bike has lined up for an AMA Supercross event, and Triumph is excited to make history with both of them!”

Mike Brown, Team Trainer, Triumph Racing:

“So far, everything is looking really good within the team with the bikes, and the riders. Everyone at Triumph Racing has been working really hard and my role is to get all three riders ready for 2024, both physically and mentally. It’s been an exciting challenge, and everything is going really well. All three riders have everything they need to run up front next year and when we start racing supercross, I think we can contend for heat race wins and shoot for the top-five in the main events.”

Holiday Gift Guide: BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger

A BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger. Photo courtesy BLACK+GRAY.
A BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger. Photo courtesy BLACK+GRAY.

BLACK+GRAY Hi-Per Hanger

BLACK+GRAY’s line of heavy-duty hangers for leathers and riding suits are rated to support more than 150 pounds of gear, and can be adjusted to match shoulder width. They’re designed to help maintain the garment’s shape and aid more complete drying after use by supporting and opening the garment to air. Six versions are available, with optional clips to support individual pants and gloves as well as jackets, and without clips to support one-piece suits or jackets. Prices range from $44.50 to $118.00 from www.blackandgray.com/hangers and can also be ordered by phone at (800) 724-2193.

MotoAmerica: Alexander Riding Third Rahal Ducati In Supersport

Corey Alexander (23). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.
Corey Alexander (23), as seen during the 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike season. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO ADDS THIRD BIKE TO  2024 SUPERSPORT PROGRAM
 
 
 

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (12.22.2023) – Team owners Bobby and Graham Rahal, who announced the formation of Rahal Ducati Moto just two months ago, confirmed today they are adding a third bike to their Rahal Ducati Moto (RDM) team.

2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, Corey Alexander will join the RDM stable aboard a Ducati Panigale V2 in the MotoAmerica Supersport class, alongside teammates PJ Jacobsen and Kayla Yaakov. However, his bike will carry a different primary sponsor, Kentucky-based Roller Die and Forming, a Custom Roll Form Manufacturing company.

The three-rider team, which has five-time AMA Champion, 2009 World Superbike Champion and MotoGP race winner Ben Spies as team principal, is set to make its mark in the upcoming MotoAmerica season, which commences with the 82nd running of the historic Daytona 200, a non-points-paying Supersport race that will take place at Daytona International Speedway, March 7-9.

Quotes:

Graham Rahal, Rahal Ducati Moto Co-Owner:

“After discussions with the team and our partners, we recognized that introducing a third bike to the RDM team would bring an advantage in our inaugural year in MotoAmerica. With three riders providing valuable feedback to the technicians, it accelerates our learning curve and boosts our overall competitiveness. Corey’s track record as a proven winner and champion reinforces our belief that incorporating this third bike will contribute to our success in the Supersport class.”

Ray Hammons, President of Roller Die and Forming:

“We have closely followed Corey’s journey over the past several years, always believing in his impressive talent. Our confidence in his abilities has only strengthened over time. Consequently, the decision to support Rahal Ducati Moto in fielding a third bike with Corey at the helm is not just a strategic move but underscores our commitment to fostering home-grown talent. We can’t wait to see Corey aboard his Ducati in Daytona in March!”

Ben Spies. Rahal Ducati Moto Team Principal:

“We’re really happy to announce Corey on the team and having a third bike will add another set of data points which can only be a positive. I’ve been friends with Corey for a while, he’s shown his talent in winning the Superstock Championship back in 2022, and everyone has a lot of respect for him and the Alexander name. We’re excited to put this all together.”

Corey Alexander:

“I’m super excited for the opportunity to join the Rahal family on this new endeavor in the MotoAmerica Supersport class. It’s been a long time since I’ve ridden a middleweight bike but I’m ready for the challenge and looking forward to being a part of the progression of this entire effort. I have to extend a special thanks to Ray and everyone at Roller Die & Forming for the tremendous support. It’s going to be a fun year alongside PJ and Kayla!”

Video: Go Behind The Scenes With Bagnaia During The 2023 MotoGP Finale

Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia celebrates winning his second consecutive MotoGP World Championship. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia celebrates winning his second consecutive MotoGP World Championship. Photo courtesy Ducati.

“#BACK2BACKgnaia: Ducati and Pecco’s Intense Showdown to MotoGP Glory”: the exclusive documentary about the 2023 MotoGP World Championship victory available starting today on Ducati and Pecco Bagnaia’s YouTube channels

The exclusive film, “#BACK2BACKgnaia: Ducati and Pecco’s Intense Showdown to MotoGP Glory”, is now accessible on the official Ducati and Pecco Bagnaia YouTube channels. Through never-before-seen footage and the words of the main protagonists, the video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the thrilling last Grand Prix for the 2023 MotoGP season held in Valencia, Spain, last November.

From the tight head-to-head battle with fellow Ducati rider Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team) to the World Championship triumph secured with another thrilling victory in Sunday’s race, and concluding with unseen footage of the celebrations, the documentary provides viewers with a unique perspective on the journey undertaken by Bagnaia and his team toward their second consecutive MotoGP World Title.

Produced by AM_Media and lasting around 15 minutes, the documentary will also be available in the coming days on the official MotoGP channels and Sky Sport MotoGP and will be distributed to major international television broadcasters.

Francesco Bagnaia (#1, Ducati Lenovo Team):

“The Valencia weekend was truly emotional, and it’s fantastic to relive it after almost a month through this video. Compared to last year, we really had to fight all the way to defend the World Title, and winning the race to achieve it was incredible. It’s also heartening to hear the voices and reactions of those who have been close to me and have experienced this intense season with me. I hope that all the fans watching this video can get excited and feel closer to us! Thanks to all the Ducatisti and my fans. Happy Holidays!”

 

Video: Jonathan Rea 2023 Winter Testing Vlog, E:4 – “Jerez Test Vlog”

Jonathan Rea heads out on track on his Pata Yamaha YZF-R1 at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Jonathan Rea heads out on track on his Pata Yamaha YZF-R1 at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.

This episode is “Jerez Test Vlog.”

 

Holiday Gift Guide: Woodcraft Hand And Toe Guards

Woodcraft's MotoAmerica-approved hand guards are easily replaceable plastic guards that help prevent accidental lever contact and also help protect hands and levers during a crash. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.
Woodcraft's MotoAmerica-approved hand guards are easily replaceable plastic guards that help prevent accidental lever contact and also help protect hands and levers during a crash. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.

Woodcraft Hand And Toe Guards

Woodcraft Technologies has goodies to spoil any racer (or yourself) this holiday season and into the start of 2024. MotoAmerica-approved hand guards are available individually or as a set in seven vibrant colors. The easily replaceable plastic guards help prevent accidental lever contact and also help protect hands and levers during a crash. They retail for $179.99 per set. Woodcraft’s Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes (and other parts) with a unique design developed to leave a minimum gap between the guard and the chain and a tapered face to deflect body parts away from the rear sprocket. It retails for $49.99. Woodcraft Technologies also offers gift cards starting at $50.00. Contact www.woodcraft-cfm.com to order from Woodcraft Technologies, Dept. 105, Baldwinville Rd. Winchendon, MA 01475, (978) 297-2977.

 

Woodcraft's Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.
Woodcraft’s Wide Coverage Toe Guard is an affordable way to help protect toes. Photo courtesy Woodcraft.

Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast: “Interview – Show Me The Money!”

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 “Interview – Show Me The Money!”

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