Honda Introduces New SCL500 Scrambler

David Swarts

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May 30, 2023

American Honda Introduces New SCL500 and Updated Shadow Phantom

May 30, 2023 — ALPHARETTA, Georgia

New SCL500 pairs retro “scrambler” styling with modern on-road performance
Shadow Phantom cruiser receives updates to performance and styling
ADV160 receives new engine, replaces ADV150
Shadow Aero, PCX and Grom return

American Honda today announced that the new SCL500 “scrambler”-style motorcycle is coming to the U.S. market. The SCL500 is a nod to Honda’s rich history, dating all the way back to the 1960s when the CL72 and CL77 were offered. Based on the Rebel 500 platform, the SCL500 combines modern ride quality and comfort with authentic retro styling, and delivers the result at an attractive price.

At the same time, Honda announced the return of several other models, many of which have received notable improvements. The bobber-style Shadow Phantom cruiser benefits from styling and performance upgrades, while its classic cruiser counterpart, the Shadow Aero, returns with a new color. Known for its versatility, the renamed ADV160 scooter delivers even greater capability, with updates focused on power, efficiency and comfort. The category-defining Grom miniMOTO enters its 10th year of production and continues to lead the way with new colors. Meanwhile, the PCX continues to set the bar for scooters, with comfortable, convenient, reliable around-town transportation.

“More than any manufacturer, Honda has consistently demonstrated an ability to deliver fun, retro motorcycles that scratch a nostalgic itch while offering the performance and reliability for which Honda is so well known,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda Manager of Sports & Experiential. “That’s the case with the all-new SCL500, and we’re confident it will be a hit with American customers. We’re also pleased to confirm the return of existing cruiser, scooter and miniMOTO models, several of which tout important improvements. Together, this collection of machines serves as a reminder of Honda’s versatility in the powersports market.”

2023 SCL500

Harkening back to the early ’60s, when simple, stripped-down motorcycles like Honda’s CL72 came on the scene, the all-new SCL500 features all the key “scrambler” styling elements—upright riding position, high-routed exhaust, block tires, ample suspension travel and a retro aesthetic—in an approachable package and at an attractive price. Leveraging the 500cc parallel-twin engine that has proven so successful in models like the Rebel 500, the retro-inspired SCL500 is light and nimble, making it a casual, fun entry for a broad swath of customers, from new riders to more seasoned enthusiasts. Because personalization is vital to many fans of this genre, a wide range of Honda Accessories is offered for the SCL500, enabling owners to customize their rides as they see fit.

A 2023 Honda SCL500 scrambler. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP: $6,799
Colors: Candy Orange; Mattel Laurel Green Metallic
Available: June
Info

2024 Shadow Phantom

Few V-twin cruisers can measure up to the clean, understated style and rock-solid reliability of the Shadow Phantom. For the 2024 model year, this cruiser icon takes it to the next level with updates to its quintessential bobber styling, along with improved performance. With a two-tone gas tank, new handlebar, handlebar clamps, headlight cover, air-cleaner cover, display instruments, turn signals and machine-cut cylinder-head fins, this cruiser’s appearance is only more timeless than that of its predecessor. In addition, an updated single seat provides comfort for long, relaxed rides, and a passenger seat and footpegs are offered for those who want to bring a plus-one along for the ride. A new ABS version is available for the new model year, and both trim levels receive a rear disc brake. To top it off, the Shadow Phantom is built with Honda’s unmatched durability, quality and reliability, giving owners the peace of mind to enjoy the sense of freedom that only a V-twin cruiser can provide. (Note: non-ABS version not available in California.)

A 2024 Honda Shadow Phantom. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP
- Shadow Phantom $8,399
- Shadow Phantom ABS: $8,699
Colors: Deep Pearl Gray Metallic; Orange Metallic
Available: June
Info

2024 Shadow Aero

A true classic, the Shadow Aero combines the signature long, low cruiser look with modern engineering and performance. For the 2024 model year, this popular cruiser is updated with new colors and a new disc rear brake for the standard version, a feature that was previously reserved for the ABS trim level. The low-slung seat and pullback handlebar offer a relaxed riding position, while the large front fender, chrome components, spoke wheels and V-twin engine contribute to its perennial styling. Thanks to sensible features like programmed fuel injection and a shaft final drive, the Shadow Aero lives up to Honda’s reputation for reliability and ease of ownership. (Note: non-ABS version not available in California.)

A 2024 Honda Shadow Aero. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP
- Shadow Aero: $7,949
- Shadow Aero ABS: $8,249
Color: Black
Available: June
Info

2024 ADV160

Renamed for the 2024 model year, the ADV160 touts a new, larger-displacement engine that delivers improved performance and reduced emissions. Also incorporated are updates aimed at boosting comfort and convenience, but the capable-but-rugged “City Adventure” concept remains, delivering an enjoyable sense of exploration on even the most mundane urban commutes. The ingredients? A low vehicle weight and practical features like an automatic transmission, two-stage adjustable windscreen and under-seat storage, resulting in a sensible machine that adeptly traverses metropolitan roads and is even up for mini-adventures.

A 2024 Honda ADV160. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP: $4,499
Colors: Red Metallic; Pearl Smoky Gray
Available: July
Info

2024 Grom

It’s hard to believe that Honda’s little Grom is already 10 years old. In the model’s first decade, it has spawned a vibrant subculture of fun-seekers—from new riders attracted to its low seat height and unintimidating approachability, to experienced enthusiasts who like its modular styling and peppy performance. In both cases, the Grom often serves as a customization platform for those looking for an amusing project, which has helped to establish the Grom as one of the powersports industry’s most popular motorcycle models—and the undisputed emperor of the miniMOTO world.

A 2024 Honda Grom. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP
- Grom: $3,599
- Grom SP: $3,699
- Grom ABS: $3,799
Colors
- Grom: Blue Raspberry; Pearl White; Nitric Orange
- Grom SP: Matte Gray Metallic
- Grom ABS: Pearl White
Available
- Grom: June
- Grom SP: August
- Grom ABS: June
Info

2023 PCX

List out the most desirable traits for a modern scooter—stylish design, standout fuel efficiency, great handling, a comfortable ride, capable performance and rock-solid reliability—and you end up with an accurate description of Honda’s PCX. The industry benchmark for scooter design and technology, the PCX is the ultimate tool for tackling urban environments in style.

A 2023 Honda PCX. Photo courtesy American Honda.

MSRP: $4,149
Color: Matte Brown Metallic
Available: June
Info

WorldSBK: Kawasaki Riders Hope Test At Jerez Will Help Races At Misano

David Swarts

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May 30, 2023

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WorldSBK: Kawasaki Riders Hope Test At Jerez Will Help Races At Misano

Misano A Popular Venue For KRT

Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes will join with their Kawasaki Racing Team colleagues once again at the eagerly-anticipated venue of Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, for round five of the FIM Superbike World Championship. The track action takes place between 2-4 June.

The 4.226km long Misano circuit, located very close to the Adriatic coast of Italy, is one of the most frequently used circuits over the long history of WorldSBK racing. Its combination of a spectator-friendly layout, numerous nearby holiday resorts and some stiff on-track challenges for the riders makes it a season highlight for all.

Jonathan scored the first of his 118 career WorldSBK race wins at Misano, way back in 2009. He now has a total of eight Misano victories to his name, making him the most successful WorldSBK rider at this circuit.

Alex has family connects to the Misano area and he is another who enjoys each weekend in a country that is as passionate as any for all forms of motorsport. Lowes has recorded two podium finishes at Misano and is out to try and add to that score this coming weekend.

Both Rea and Lowes are looking for their first race wins of the year, although both have secured podium finishes on their Ninja ZX-10RR machines.

The weekend at Misano begins in earnest on Friday 2 June with two practice sessions. Saturday 3 June hosts FP3, Tissot-Superpole qualifying and then a full 21-lap Race One. Sunday will see the Superpole Race (over ten laps) and then a final full distance Race Two.

After the first of two Italian WorldSBK rounds on the 2023 WorldSBK calendar, the teams will have another long layoff from competitive action before a home round for both Lowes and Rea takes place between 30 June and 2 July, at Donington Park.

Jonathan Rea, stated: “It is great to be back at Misano. It is a great part of the world to host a race. I always spend a lot of time here with my family, enjoying the Italian hospitality, the beach, the food. It creates a really nice scene, a great backdrop of a race weekend. The circuit itself has so many nice memories for me. I won my first WorldSBK race there back in 2009. Since then we have enjoyed some good moments. I enjoy the track and it has a mix of everything, with fast and slow sections, and I particularly like the fast Curvone at the end of the back straight. We had a recent test at Jerez where we tried to improve in the kind of conditions we feel we will face again here. I think we enter this weekend in positive mood and looking forward to seeing what we can do. It will be so nice to face the Italian fans, and whilst I am not Italian, or have ridden for an Italian manufacturer, they always give me a lot of love and support. Hopefully we can put on a good show for all the people of Emilia-Romagna that have gone through a difficult time after the recent floods.”

Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Alex Lowes, stated: “Misano is always a great round on our annual racing schedule. My brother’s wife was originally from a place very close to the circuit, so it’s an area we have spent some time together in as a family – it’s lovely. The track itself is a lot of fun to ride, especially the middle section with the fast flowing corners. We had a good test in Spain recently and improved my feeling a little bit in those hotter conditions that we can expect to find this weekend. My goal is to be back on the podium and have some fun with my KRT team.”

Misano will be the first competitive WorldSBK round for new Kawasaki Puccetti Racing signing Tito Rabat, at what is his team’s home round. Oliver König (Orelac Racing Movisio Kawasaki) and Isaac Vinales (TPR by Vinales Racing Kawasaki) will again fight for the points scores at Misano.

WERA: Airfence Burns In Fiery Crash At Road Atlanta

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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WERA: Airfence Burns In Fiery Crash At Road Atlanta

Thousands of dollars of soft barriers were destroyed in a fiery crash Saturday, May 27 at the WERA Cycle Jam at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

View a video of the scene shot by veteran racer Chuck Ivey here: https://www.facebook.com/1485493885/videos/253560307256536/

Ilan Bental crashed in Turn Four, the esses section, at Road Atlanta during the 600ccc/C Superstock Expert race. Strong winds then turned a small fire on Bental’s crashed motorcycle into an inferno that burned up a huge section of tire wall, a chain link fence, and an estimated 8-9 sections of life-saving Airfence Bike soft barriers.

While the fire ended the remainder of the day’s activities, Bental was relatively uninjured according to Ivey, the fire was eventually extinguished, and enough repairs were made overnight that WERA was able to resume action the following morning. (Bental can be seen at left in the photo above, helping pull Airfence sections away from flames.)

The cost to replace the Airfence sections is estimated to be between $23,400 and $26,000, plus shipping. The 501(c)(3) non-profit Roadracing World Action Fund, Inc., is already raising funds to replace the destroyed units.

To help, send your tax-deductible donation via Paypal at [email protected] and put “RA fire replacements” in the comments/notes so the funds go toward the Road Atlanta replacements.

For more information on the Roadracing World Action Fund and other ways to donate and help, go to www.roadracingworld.com/actionfund/.

R.I.P. Race Tire Distributor & Vietnam War Veteran Walt Schaefer

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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R.I.P. Race Tire Distributor & Vietnam War Veteran Walt Schaefer

Walt “Wally” Schaefer, 76, died from cancer peacefully at his home in Egypt, Alabama surrounded by family on May 29, 2023. He was a long-time fixture in the racing community as a great friend, a competitive racer, and as a racing tire distributor.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 12, 1947, before moving to Gadsden, Alabama six months later. He served in Vietnam in the Navy, running hundreds of combat missions up the rivers on a PBR earning a Navy Commendation Medal For Valor in Combat for meritorious service.

“We’d be shooting at each other at night, and drinking in the bars together during the day,” Walt once reflected on his experience with the Viet Cong.

Upon returning to the USA he began racing motorcycles on Yamahas, Triumphs, and Harley-Davidsons. His passion for the sport became a career when in 1976 he began distributing Michelin racing motorcycle tires. He could often be spotted at the tracks of the Southeast, sometime accompanied by one or both of his daughters Lauren and Katie, good naturedly mounting tires and giving set up advice until his retirement in 2015.

Walt Schaefer (200) in action on his Harley-Davidson racebike back in the day. Photo courtesy the Schaefer Family.

He was a talented guitar player who collaborated with other racers in a blues band and his love for music took him on treasured trips to Spain with his family to help develop his flamenco playing skills. He also enjoyed long journeys to the American West to explore and fish for trout, and he built his own drift boat from scratch and relished performing stunts in his aerobatic biplane.

He was pre-deceased by Dorinda Schaefer in 2016 and is survived by his daughters Lauren and Katie and late-life partner Della Bluemly.

Requiescat in pace.

World Endurance: Kawasaki Racing Team Boycotting 2023 Suzuka 8-Hours

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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World Endurance: Kawasaki Racing Team Boycotting 2023 Suzuka 8-Hours

Kawasaki Racing Team absent from 2023 Suzuka 8hr

Kawasaki’s official WorldSBK team has announced that it will not apply for an entry to the 2023 Suzuka 8hr event due to be held at the iconic Japanese track in August.

Having discussed all the options in terms of riders and logistics – plus considered the impact of a dedicated test programme in addition to the current testing that is part of its WorldSBK commitments – the team consulted with Kawasaki Motors Ltd. and the two jointly decided that the official factory team will not appear this year.

It is not a decision that has been taken lightly and follows a win for KRT in cooperation with KHI, Team Green and Kawasaki Motors Corp. Japan in 2019 contrasted with the unwelcome and unexpected result of coming so close to victory in a complicated, controversial, and ultimately disappointing 2022 event.

KRT Team Manager, Guim Roda explained the strategy and the emotion behind the announcement.

“Competing at the Suzuka 8hr requires time and commitment from a vast number of people. It might look similar to Superbike racing – and we even use Superbike riders like Johnny and Alex – but this race is like no other and requires its own testing and preparation programme on top of what we already do in WorldSBK. Just about everything is different and everyone needs to take time to adapt to different technical and performance parameters for this one race. To compete at the highest level and have success snatched from your hands is not easy to adjust to so we will not appear on the grid this year. Our 2023 focus at KRT is now 100% WorldSBK . We wish all competitors and teams involved in the 2023 race an exciting and safe event.”

MotoGP: Ducati Re-Signs Pirro As Test Rider Through 2026

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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MotoGP: Ducati Re-Signs Pirro As Test Rider Through 2026

Ducati renews agreement with Michele Pirro as test rider for another three years

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce that Michele Pirro will continue as the Borgo Panigale manufacturer’s test rider for another three years until the end of 2026.

Hailing from San Giovanni Rotondo and a nine-time Italian Champion, Michele has been a key contributor to the development of the Desmosedici GP for the past eleven years. Pirro has also taken part in the development of the Ducati MotoE, which debuted in the last GP weekend at Le Mans in the first race of the FIM MotoE World Championship.

In addition to taking part in countless test sessions with the Ducati Test Team and racing in the Italian Superbike Championship with the Panigale V4 R, Michele has also been present at numerous MotoGP Grands Prix and, in a little over a week, will participate as a wild card in the upcoming Italian GP, scheduled from 9th-11th June at Mugello.

Luigi Dall’Igna (General Manager of Ducati Corse)

“We are delighted to be able to count on Michele again for the next three years. Pirro started his work as a test rider eleven years ago, so no other rider knows our Desmosedici GP as well as he does. It is also thanks to his valuable contribution that we have been able to make our bike as competitive as it is today. The goal is to continue to grow; being able to count on Michele’s great experience is definitely an asset in our development work.”

Michele Pirro (#51, Ducati MotoGP Test Team)

“Most of my sporting career has been with Ducati, and I can’t imagine myself in any other colour than the red of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer. I arrived here in 2013, probably during the most difficult years for Ducati Corse, but now I am also experiencing the best ones for the company. I am very proud of what we have done together. I have worked closely with the new generation of Italian riders and always learn something new from them. As always, I will work hard to continue contributing to developing the Desmosedici GP and the Panigale V4. I thank Claudio, Gigi, Paolo and Davide, and all the people who believe in me. Forza Ducati always!”

Isle Of Man TT: Dunlop Quickest In Four Classes On Monday (Updated With Video)

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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Isle Of Man TT: Dunlop Quickest In Four Classes On Monday (Updated With Video)

DUNLOP SETS THE PACE IN OPENING QUALIFYING SESSION

In the opening qualifying session of the 2023 Isle of Man TT Races it was Michael Dunlop that set the pace, topping all four solo classes including an unofficial lap record in the Supertwin category, with a lap of 122.907mph, quicker than his 2018 best of 122.750mph.

Dunlop was also quickest in the Superbike class on the Hawk Racing Honda (131.782mph), the Superstock class (130.426mph) on his MD Racing Honda and the Supersport class where he lapped at 127.019mph on the MD Racing Yamaha. In the Sidecar class, it was Pete Founds/Jevan Walmsley who were quickest at 117.431mph.

It was perfect conditions all around the Mountain Course, the morning’s free practice sessions took place under blue skies and sunshine with the first qualifying session getting underway at 2pm. The Supersport and Supertwin machines were first away, Dunlop (MD Racing Paton) and Dean Harrison (BPEby Russell Racing Yamaha) the first to head off towards Bray Hill.

They were quickly followed by Michael Rutter (Bathams Ales Yamaha) and Dominic Herbertson (John M Paterson Ltd/CC Engineering Kawasaki) on their Supertwin machines with James Hillier (BPE by Russell Racing Yamaha) and Paul Jordan (PreZ Racing by Prosper Yamaha) next to go, both Supersport-mounted. Jamie Coward (KTS Racing Kawasaki) and Josh Brookes (Dafabet Racing Kawasaki) were also amongst the early Supertwin starters.

Harrison was the first to complete a lap at 125.494mph followed by Jordan (121.796mph) and Hillier (120.607mph) but it was Hickman who went quickest at 125.958mph, four seconds faster than Harrison’s lap. Todd slotted into third with a lap of 123.913mph with Mike Browne (122.161mph) and Conor Cummins (121.554mph) also in the mix.

However, the big news was in the Supertwin class with Dunlop unofficially breaking the lap record from a standing start at 122.907mph. This was almost half a minute quicker than Coward (119.758mph) with Brian McCormack (118.971mph), Herbertson (115.895mph), Brookes (115.518mph) and Junior Manx GP winner Francesco Curinga (115.183mph) completing the early leaderboard.

Hickman continued for a second lap on the K2 Trooper Triumph and improved to 126.814mph with Todd (124.604) and David Johnson (121.788) also bettering their opening lap speed only for Dunlop to go to the top of the leaderboard with a lap of 127.019mph, 1.7seconds quicker than Hickman.

Supertwin speeds were also on the up with Herbertson (116.821), Brookes (116.470) and Rutter (116.425) all going quicker second time around.

The Superbikes and Superstocks were next out at 2.45pm and Harrison (DAO Racing Kawasaki) was quick out the blocks delivering the first lap over 130mph with a speed of 130.752mph on his Superbike which was just quicker than Dunlop’s Superstock speed of 130.426mph.

John McGuinness (127.881mph) and James Hillier (127.581mph) were next quickest on their Superbike mounts with Rutter (125.888) and Brookes (125.742) not too far behind, Rutter on the RC213V-S and Brookes on the Superstock BMW. Hickman was late out on track but immediately slotted into second on the Superbike leaderboard with a lap of 130.272mph with Coward (127.975mph) going third quickest.

Dunlop switched to his Superbike and posted a lap of 130.658mph but Harrison increased his pace on lap two to 131.764mph as did Hickman (131.254mph), McGuinness (129.398mph), Coward (129.017mph) and Todd (128.211mph). Dunlop saved the best until last though with a final lap of 131.782mph putting him quickest on the Superbike despite smoke reported to be coming from the Fireblade.

Brookes was second fastest in the Superstock class with a second lap speed of 126.404mph ahead of Phil Crowe (126.067mph) and Mike Browne (125.262mph).

Meanwhile, newcomers Erno Kostamo (115.468mph), Matthieu Lagrive (111.839mph), Ryan Cringle (111.658mph), Jack Petrie (107.696mph), Jorge Halliday (107.527mph) all had a successful first day around the Mountain Course.

The final session of a busy day was for the Sidecars with Founds/Walmsley setting the initial pace on their FHO Racing Honda at 116.286mph, which was six seconds quicker than the Birchall’s lap of 115.689mph. Founds/Lowther slotted into third (113.485) ahead of Molyneux/Sayle (112.082) and Bryan/Hyde (111.944).

Both Founds/Walmsley and the Birchalls upped their pace on lap two with the former coming out on top by 2.7seconds with a lap of 117.431mph compared to 117.153mph. Newcomer driver Daryl Gibson, who was passenger for Molyneux twelve months ago, impressed with a lap of 107.497mph with Tom Christie.

Tomorrow’s qualifying session is set to get under at 18:30.

Video: Army Of Darkness Weighs & Dynos A TM EN 300FI

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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Video: Army Of Darkness Weighs & Dynos A TM EN 300FI

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming fell in love with TM when he and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM factory in Italy in April 2022. Upon arriving home he found a coveted 2022 300 FI 2T for sale and snapped it up. After a couple little teething problems, he’s got it set up and is out in the woods.

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM Racing factory in Pesaro Italy in April 2022 and you can find a series of videos about that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0AEu…

TM Racing makes arguably the most exquisite racing motorcycles for MX, Enduro and Supermoto in the world. They also made a championship winning Moto3 road race bike!

Remember to subscribe to this channel!

Subscribe to the print magazine at http://roadracingworld.com

See an archive of other Army Of Darkness articles at http://armyofdarkness.com

Part Two:

02:43 Weight

05:33 Dyno Chart Analysis

@tmracing3175 @kwsmotorsport3214 @RoadracingWorld2012

MotoAmerica: What’s New At Road America For 2023

David Swarts

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May 29, 2023

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MotoAmerica: What’s New At Road America For 2023

Editorial Note: Nearly every year Road America makes enhancements to its historic facility, and here are a few new things awaiting fans in 2023.

Road America has worked to improve the experience since 1955

The overall vision of Road America grew out of the dreams of Clif Tufte, a highway engineer, who chose 525 acres of Wisconsin farmland outside the Village of Elkhart Lake for the track. The natural topography of the glacial Kettle Moraine area was utilized for the track and for fan viewing areas, sweeping around rolling hills and plunging through ravines. While countless facility improvements have been made over the years, the 4.048-mile, 14-turn road course itself is virtually the same today as it was when it was first laid out. Now in 2023, an entirely new surface stands ready for racers and enthusiasts alike. You can read more about the repaving of America’s National Park of Speed here.

Road America's original 4.0-mile road course has been completely repaved (except for The Bend chicane used by MotoAmerica) for 2023. Photo courtesy Road America. — Road America’s original 4.0-mile road course has been completely repaved (except for The Bend chicane used by MotoAmerica) for 2023. Photo courtesy Road America.

New facility improvements to experience during the 2023 season

In addition to the new racing surface, there are numerous new facility improvements to check out when you visit Road America this season. From Wood Carvings to Paddock lighting to the Carousel Viewing Trail, there is no shortage of exciting new features to explore.

One of the most striking additions to Road America is the wood carvings located throughout the property. These beautiful pieces of art are the work of artist Ben Buschke, from Manawa, Wisconsin, who has been creating wood carvings for many years. From bears to eagles to wolves, Ben’s carvings capture the spirit of the Wisconsin wilderness and add a unique and memorable touch to the Road America experience.

Some of the new wood carvings on display around Road America. Photos courtesy Road America.

Another exciting improvement to Road America is the paddock lighting provided by Wisconsin Lighting Lab. This innovative lighting system illuminates the pit lane and the paddock area, providing a safe and inviting environment for drivers, teams, and fans alike. With its bright and energy-efficient LED lights, the paddock lighting system is a testament to Road America’s commitment to sustainability and safety.

But perhaps the most exciting new addition to Road America is the Carousel Trail. This walking path (also golf cart accessible) circumnavigates turns nine and ten, providing fans with an unparalleled view of the action. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a fun and unique way to experience the beauty of Road America, the Carousel Trail is not to be missed.

The new Carousel Trail is a pedestrian and golf cart path that goes around the Carousel to "The Beach" viewing area at Turn 11. Photo courtesy Road America. — The new Carousel Trail is a pedestrian and golf cart path that goes around the Carousel to “The Beach” viewing area at Turn 11. Photo courtesy Road America.

Lastly, the newest and most popular attraction is “The Beach,” a casual and relaxed sandy escape located near Turn 11. With its comfortable grandstand seating, palm trees, and excellent vantage point, The Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and experience the thrill of the race.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Recent Birth: Brody Charles Beaubier

David Swarts

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May 28, 2023

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Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier and wife Shelby had a son, Brody Charles Beaubier, May 23 in Sacramento, California.

From Cameron Beaubier’s Facebook page: “Brody Charles Beaubier was born on Thursday 5/25/23. Shelby did amazing and I’m so proud. Brody scared us a little and had to spend a couple days being looked after in the NICU, but he is doing great now and we brought him home today.”

Honda Introduces New SCL500 Scrambler

May 30, 2023

A pre-production 2023 Honda SCL500 scrambler. Photo courtesy American Honda.

American Honda Introduces New SCL500 and Updated Shadow Phantom

May 30, 2023 — ALPHARETTA, Georgia

New SCL500 pairs retro “scrambler” styling with modern on-road performance
Shadow Phantom cruiser receives updates to performance and styling
ADV160 receives new engine, replaces ADV150
Shadow Aero, PCX and Grom return

American Honda today announced that the new SCL500 “scrambler”-style motorcycle is coming to the U.S. market. The SCL500 is a nod to Honda’s rich history, dating all the way back to the 1960s when the CL72 and CL77 were offered. Based on the Rebel 500 platform, the SCL500 combines modern ride quality and comfort with authentic retro styling, and delivers the result at an attractive price.

At the same time, Honda announced the return of several other models, many of which have received notable improvements. The bobber-style Shadow Phantom cruiser benefits from styling and performance upgrades, while its classic cruiser counterpart, the Shadow Aero, returns with a new color. Known for its versatility, the renamed ADV160 scooter delivers even greater capability, with updates focused on power, efficiency and comfort. The category-defining Grom miniMOTO enters its 10th year of production and continues to lead the way with new colors. Meanwhile, the PCX continues to set the bar for scooters, with comfortable, convenient, reliable around-town transportation.

“More than any manufacturer, Honda has consistently demonstrated an ability to deliver fun, retro motorcycles that scratch a nostalgic itch while offering the performance and reliability for which Honda is so well known,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda Manager of Sports & Experiential. “That’s the case with the all-new SCL500, and we’re confident it will be a hit with American customers. We’re also pleased to confirm the return of existing cruiser, scooter and miniMOTO models, several of which tout important improvements. Together, this collection of machines serves as a reminder of Honda’s versatility in the powersports market.”

2023 SCL500

Harkening back to the early ’60s, when simple, stripped-down motorcycles like Honda’s CL72 came on the scene, the all-new SCL500 features all the key “scrambler” styling elements—upright riding position, high-routed exhaust, block tires, ample suspension travel and a retro aesthetic—in an approachable package and at an attractive price. Leveraging the 500cc parallel-twin engine that has proven so successful in models like the Rebel 500, the retro-inspired SCL500 is light and nimble, making it a casual, fun entry for a broad swath of customers, from new riders to more seasoned enthusiasts. Because personalization is vital to many fans of this genre, a wide range of Honda Accessories is offered for the SCL500, enabling owners to customize their rides as they see fit.

MSRP: $6,799
Colors: Candy Orange; Mattel Laurel Green Metallic
Available: June
Info

2024 Shadow Phantom

Few V-twin cruisers can measure up to the clean, understated style and rock-solid reliability of the Shadow Phantom. For the 2024 model year, this cruiser icon takes it to the next level with updates to its quintessential bobber styling, along with improved performance. With a two-tone gas tank, new handlebar, handlebar clamps, headlight cover, air-cleaner cover, display instruments, turn signals and machine-cut cylinder-head fins, this cruiser’s appearance is only more timeless than that of its predecessor. In addition, an updated single seat provides comfort for long, relaxed rides, and a passenger seat and footpegs are offered for those who want to bring a plus-one along for the ride. A new ABS version is available for the new model year, and both trim levels receive a rear disc brake. To top it off, the Shadow Phantom is built with Honda’s unmatched durability, quality and reliability, giving owners the peace of mind to enjoy the sense of freedom that only a V-twin cruiser can provide. (Note: non-ABS version not available in California.)

MSRP
- Shadow Phantom $8,399
- Shadow Phantom ABS: $8,699
Colors: Deep Pearl Gray Metallic; Orange Metallic
Available: June
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2024 Shadow Aero

A true classic, the Shadow Aero combines the signature long, low cruiser look with modern engineering and performance. For the 2024 model year, this popular cruiser is updated with new colors and a new disc rear brake for the standard version, a feature that was previously reserved for the ABS trim level. The low-slung seat and pullback handlebar offer a relaxed riding position, while the large front fender, chrome components, spoke wheels and V-twin engine contribute to its perennial styling. Thanks to sensible features like programmed fuel injection and a shaft final drive, the Shadow Aero lives up to Honda’s reputation for reliability and ease of ownership. (Note: non-ABS version not available in California.)

MSRP
- Shadow Aero: $7,949
- Shadow Aero ABS: $8,249
Color: Black
Available: June
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2024 ADV160

Renamed for the 2024 model year, the ADV160 touts a new, larger-displacement engine that delivers improved performance and reduced emissions. Also incorporated are updates aimed at boosting comfort and convenience, but the capable-but-rugged “City Adventure” concept remains, delivering an enjoyable sense of exploration on even the most mundane urban commutes. The ingredients? A low vehicle weight and practical features like an automatic transmission, two-stage adjustable windscreen and under-seat storage, resulting in a sensible machine that adeptly traverses metropolitan roads and is even up for mini-adventures.

MSRP: $4,499
Colors: Red Metallic; Pearl Smoky Gray
Available: July
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2024 Grom

It’s hard to believe that Honda’s little Grom is already 10 years old. In the model’s first decade, it has spawned a vibrant subculture of fun-seekers—from new riders attracted to its low seat height and unintimidating approachability, to experienced enthusiasts who like its modular styling and peppy performance. In both cases, the Grom often serves as a customization platform for those looking for an amusing project, which has helped to establish the Grom as one of the powersports industry’s most popular motorcycle models—and the undisputed emperor of the miniMOTO world.

MSRP
- Grom: $3,599
- Grom SP: $3,699
- Grom ABS: $3,799
Colors
- Grom: Blue Raspberry; Pearl White; Nitric Orange
- Grom SP: Matte Gray Metallic
- Grom ABS: Pearl White
Available
- Grom: June
- Grom SP: August
- Grom ABS: June
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2023 PCX

List out the most desirable traits for a modern scooter—stylish design, standout fuel efficiency, great handling, a comfortable ride, capable performance and rock-solid reliability—and you end up with an accurate description of Honda’s PCX. The industry benchmark for scooter design and technology, the PCX is the ultimate tool for tackling urban environments in style.

MSRP: $4,149
Color: Matte Brown Metallic
Available: June
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WorldSBK: Kawasaki Riders Hope Test At Jerez Will Help Races At Misano

May 30, 2023

Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.