AMA Supercross: Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Announced

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

AMA Supercross: Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Announced

ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING TEAM TARGETS 2024 SMX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS

MALCOLM STEWART, CHRISTIAN CRAIG, RJ HAMPSHIRE, GUILLEM FARRES AND CASEY COCHRAN FORM ROSTER

An expanded five-rider Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team will take centerstage when the 2024 SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) season commences with the AMA Supercross Championship season-opener at Anaheim on Saturday, January 6, led by 450SX duo Malcolm Stewart and Christian Craig, alongside 250SX contenders RJ Hampshire, Guillem Farres and Casey Cochran.

The Nathan Ramsey-managed official Husqvarna Motorcycles U.S. team will be equipped with the Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition and the Husqvarna FC 250 Rockstar Edition, forming a strong foundation for all five riders to build upon as the gates drop on what is a highly anticipated new season.

In addition to the on-track action, Rockstar Energy Drink has renewed its commitment as title sponsor of the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team in a multi-year commitment, which will span the entire 31-race SMX series. The team will contest 17 rounds of AMA Supercross, 11 rounds in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship, and a three-round, post-season SMX Finals series.

“We’re incredibly excited to extend our partnership with Husqvarna Motorcycles. Over the past 10 years, the relationship with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team has been more than just a sponsorship and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow together, said Jennifer Kalban, Senior Motorsports Marketing Manager, PepsiCo North America. “The team is as strong as it’s ever been and the 2024 season should be an exciting one.”

Each step of that journey will be documented in Season 3 of the Grit and Grind docuseries, which will continue to be broadcast on the Husqvarna Motorcycles YouTube channel in 2024. A collaboration between Rockstar Energy and Husqvarna Motorcycles, it will once again provide an all-access insight into the season of Stewart, Craig, Hampshire, Farres, and Cochran.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager, Nathan Ramsey, is confident that all five riders will be competitive across next year’s SMX series, determined to iron out any kinks that have proven costly in the past and to ensure that all riders can consistently deliver strong results in 2024.

“2024 is looking good for us, the guys are having a really good off-season, and we are working hard to be ready for the season,” explained Ramsey. “I think that ultimately, we’re going to come out swinging and avoid the major ups and downs and ride it out as steady as possible and put our Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team riders up front. We have looked a lot at things that have cost us or possibly pushed us out of championship hopes in the past, and I think we have highlighted a few of those areas and we are all – the team, the crew, the riders, everyone – committed to correcting those areas and hopefully it works and pays off, because if they are corrected, I think we’re in the hunt, for sure.”

Making a welcome return to Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing will be Stewart, the 31-year-old who was unfortunately sidelined in the early stages of last season and is in line to pick up where he left off almost 12 months ago. The fan favorite finished a career-high third in the 450SX standings in 2022, now excited to get back behind the gates in a bid to rebuild his form in a competitive environment.

“The focus for 2024 is honestly just to get back out there and get my feet wet again,” said Stewart. “2023 was a pretty short-lived year for me, it was kind of more for me to get back going and to finish what I started last year. I was looking really good, A1 was going very well, we had one little incident and we won a heat race, so we had some big flashes, but it just ended too quickly. This is part of racing and things happen, but I have had a really good recovery so far, and training has been going well this off-season with a good group of guys that I’m surrounded with. Everyone has been positive through the whole recovery and I’m glad I locked myself in for another two more years! I really want to win next year and I’m looking forward to getting back into the bunch with the team for the upcoming season.”

Entering his second year with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing, Craig was also affected by injury in 2023 but was able to return and represent Team USA at the FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) in September. At 32, Craig has the desire to establish himself toward the front of the premier class and has been enjoying the pre-season to date.

“I’m feeling pretty good entering another year with the team, so I’m more comfortable, learning everyone around me, and obviously learning the bike more with more seat time,” commented Craig. “I’m coming off a pretty serious injury, so just trying to build back up from that and we’re kind of in the middle of boot camp right now. I am excited for the new year, I need to put in some results, so am very focused and driven for this one. This past season was a big learning year for me, so this time I know what to expect with the training program, riding program, and what the team brings – I need to step up and try to be upfront as much as possible.”

As one of the most experienced riders in the 250 Class, RJ Hampshire has his sights firmly set on achieving title success in the new year. He was runner-up in 250SX West last year and raced to third position in the inaugural 250SMX standings, now motivated to capture a first-career championship with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing.

“My goal is to definitely try and get a championship,” Hampshire stated. “We’ve been close the last two years in a row, so I’ll just come into the season, take it race-by-race, and build from where were last year. The team has worked really hard to make the bike as good as possible, and there are a lot of improvements already. We were in a good spot last season, so if we can be a bit better this year, I definitely think we can get it done. Supercross was massive for me because I had seven podiums in seven years and then last year I had eight in total, so that was a really big step in my career. The next step is to get the red plate, so that is the goal going into the season. The team has been awesome, there is nowhere else I would rather be, and I just renewed my deal for two more years – it just goes to show how much I believe in this team and how much I believe in myself, because we’ve grown a lot together. They believe in me a lot to go out there and perform also, and I definitely think that this year will be another big step in our relationship.”

For Farres, the chance to join Rockstar Energy Husqvarna sees him preparing for his maiden 250SX campaign, in which the 20-year-old Spanish revelation is looking to develop important Supercross experience during the upcoming season, before turning his attention outdoors.

“The transition to the Husqvarna FC 250 and the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team has been really good,” Farres said. “This is my first time ever here in Clermont, Florida, training and first time in California. So far, so good. Everyone has been really welcoming on the team, I’ve been having a good time, and I’m excited for the 2024 season. It’s going to be my rookie season in Supercross, so I am going to focus on staying healthy, being at every round, and improving every day with every lap. I’ve never raced in a stadium before, so I’m sure it’s going to be something new and I’m going to be a little nervous, but hopefully it gets better after the first round.”

Exciting teenage prospect Cochran has graduated to the professional ranks with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna full-time for 2024, the 17-year-old looking to build upon the Supercross Futures AMA National Championship that he won in 2023, while learning his craft as a professional in the sport.

“It’s my first official pro season, so I’m looking forward to getting out there with the big guys and mixing it up, getting good results,” Cochran commented. “Nothing too extravagant so far, but my goal is to get used to the whole program. It’s a super-cool opportunity because we have worked our whole lives for this deal, this contract, to be on a factory team, so I am super-excited to be here and have a great team around me and ready to get to work. I have always personally liked Supercross better than outdoors, so I am excited to race indoors. I raced Futures last year and that was a good experience, so the more indoors, the better!”

AMA Supercross: American Honda Announces Its Riders

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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AMA Supercross: American Honda Announces Its Riders

American Honda Presents Race Teams Ahead of 2024 Season

TORRANCE, Calif. –

Team Honda HRC expecting success following dominant 2023 performance

Supported teams to field strong athlete lineups in motocross, off-road and more

During a special event this evening, American Honda presented its race plans for the fast-approaching 2024 racing season. Held in the new Collection Hall and meeting space at the manufacturer’s Torrance, California, campus, the event was attended by team sponsors and members of the media, and was highlighted by the factory Team Honda HRC lineup, including riders, managers and technicians. The factory squad is coming off a record-setting 2023 season that saw it take a record six professional AMA championships. In addition, an impressive list of Honda-supported teams was presented, including SmarTop/Bullfrog Spas/MotoConcepts Honda, SLR Honda, JCR Honda, Turner Racing Honda, Honda Off-Road Factory Racing and Raceco-USA Honda. Also present was Phoenix Racing Honda, celebrating the recent signing of two-time AMA Pro Motocross Champion Dylan Ferrandis, to campaign the premier class in AMA Supercross.

Heading up Team Honda HRC is Jett Lawrence, who at 20 years old has already accumulated six AMA crowns, including three in 2023—the 250SX West title, the AMA Pro Motocross 450 championship and the inaugural SuperMotocross title. The 2024 season will be Jett’s first campaigning the premier class indoors. Joining Jett aboard another factory CRF450RWE is his brother Hunter Lawrence, who last season earned the 250SX East and AMA Pro Motocross 250 crowns. As previously announced, Jo Shimoda takes Hunter’s old spot aboard the team’s CRF250R, along with returning racer Chance Hymas. The four-rider lineup is among the strongest ever fielded by the squad, which is intent on carrying its success forward into the coming season.

That confidence is thanks also in part to the return of top members within the team and crew, including manager Lars Lindstrom and 450 and 250 crew chiefs Grant Hutcheson and Jordan Troxell, respectively. Christien Ducharme is Jett Lawrence’s mechanic, while Hunter’s technician is Cameron Camera. Ben Griffith and Thomas Harris will serve as mechanics for Shimoda and Hymas, respectively.

The 17-round 2024 AMA Supercross season commences on January 6 in Anaheim, California, followed by the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross series and the three-round SuperMotocross Championship.

Brandon Wilson: Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing

“While it’s gratifying that we were able to get Team Honda HRC back on top where it belongs in 2023, this team’s proud legacy wasn’t built on a one-and-done philosophy; in fact, the recent success just makes us even more determined to keep it going in 2024. Fortunately, I think we have all the pieces needed to accomplish that: an incredibly talented rider roster, a capable crew, competitive machinery and valuable sponsors. And while of course the factory squad is the focus, I’m also very proud of the lineup of support teams we’re fielding in various disciplines. I can’t wait for the new season to get started.”

Lars Lindstrom: Team Manager

“We just finished our 2024 season introduction for Team Honda HRC and the support teams. We’ve had an incredibly rigorous off-season compared to normal, with a lot of different events and traveling. Now it feels like this was kind of the last thing on the agenda before Anaheim. Everyone worked extremely hard to make this event happen, but we planned well and it went off without a hitch. I’m really proud of the whole team, and the riders for being troopers—especially Jett and Hunter after coming from the Honda Racing Thanks Day in Japan. Now it’s all about dialing in the bikes, getting trucks ready and preparing for the first race. I’m super-excited for the season coming and really stoked to have these guys on the team right now. Our team atmosphere last year was great, and it’s even better now. I feel like we’re going to have an incredible vibe all year.”

Pipe Dreams Podcast (And Video): E11 – Chloé Lerin, For The Love Of Data & Two Wheels

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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Pipe Dreams Podcast (And Video): E11 – Chloé Lerin, For The Love Of Data & Two Wheels

Episode 11: Chloé Lerin – For The Love of Data & Two Wheels

December 7th, 2023 – Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, California

MotoAmerica / American Flat Track racers Corey Alexander and James Rispoli are please to announce the return of Pipe Dreams Podcast with Episode 11 after a brief post-season hiatus, featuring Chloé Lerin, an experienced engine research engineer specializing in improving internal combustion engines with over a decade in dynamometer labs.

Chloé shares with us her journey from college in rural France to landing a dream job in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she works on engine development for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Did we mention on weekends she also serves as a race data engineer for the Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki MotoAmerica team or as a trackside support engineer for AiM Sports?

Chloé has an immense passion for inspiring other women to join the motorsports industry in any capacity but especially through data analysis and STEM. She is our first industry professional guest on the podcast and we hope you enjoy!

Available on all major podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, the eleventh full episode with Chloé launches today. Video of the episode can be viewed on Spotify and YouTube.

About Pipe Dreams Podcast:

Pipe Dreams Podcast launched in 2023 by MotoAmerica and American Flat Track riders Corey Alexander and James Rispoli in an effort to share the stories of fellow racers and motorsport professionals around the world. The podcast releases twice per month for streaming on all major platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Youtube. Editing is curated by Sabotno Media. Follow @pipedreams_pod on social media or visit https://anchor.fm/pipe-dreams to listen now.

Video: MotoAmerica “Pressure To Rise” Episode 4

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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Video: MotoAmerica “Pressure To Rise” Episode 4

Former World Champion Toni Elias forged a renewed career for himself in MotoAmerica. With Wayne Rainey as his idol and the American Dream as his destiny, the Spaniard won the 2017 MotoAmerica Championship and thrilled his many fans through race after race. He announced his retirement at Road America, and his competitors talked about it. Also, a freshly paved track at Ridge Motorsports Park delivered low lap times and high trap speeds for the Medallia Superbike riders, along with the intensity and drama that defines MotoAmerica’s premier race class. And, as always, “Pressure To Rise” was there to capture all the emotions.

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#MotoAmerica #Motorcycle #Motorsport #Racing

MotoAmerica: Lyndall Brakes Becomes Official Partner Of Series

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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MotoAmerica: Lyndall Brakes Becomes Official Partner Of Series

Lyndall Brakes Now An Official Partner Of MotoAmerica

Maker Of V-Twin Aftermarket Products, Lyndall Brakes Is Onboard For 2024

IRVINE, CA (December 7, 2023) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Lyndall Brakes will make its debut as an official partner of the MotoAmerica Championship in 2024.

“Being an official partner of the 2024 MotoAmerica/King Of The Baggers season is an honor,” said Paul Kittrell, CEO of Lyndall Brakes. “The track has always been our theater of validation, and this partnership reflects our dedication to research and development in high-performance braking.”

Family owned and operated since 1998, Lyndall Brakes has been innovating high energy braking systems for V-twin motorcycles, recently branching into the UTV/ATV market as well. Lyndall doesn’t just specialize in brakes as it offers a range of aftermarket performance products for Harley-Davidsons, Indians, and Polaris, including wheels, rotors, chain kits, conversion kits, titanium fasteners, and more – all proudly made in the USA, reﬂecting the company’s unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer service. They are the only brake company in the motorcycle industry that offers a lifetime guarantee on its rotors when used in conjunction with Lyndall brake pads.

“We’re pumped to have Lyndall Brakes onboard as an official partner for the coming season,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Director of Sponsorship. “Lyndall Brakes has been making quality products for over 25 years and they really like what they’ve seen with our Mission King Of The Baggers and also our Mission Super Hooligan National Championship class. There are two important elements to racing, horsepower and brakes and Lyndall takes care of the braking part.”

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.

Ride On Motorcycle Training Acquires T3RG Motorcycle Schools

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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Ride On Motorcycle Training Acquires T3RG Motorcycle Schools

T3RG Motorcycle Schools is acquired by Ride On Motorcycle Training

Ride On Motorcycle Training LLC (Ride On) has fully acquired T3RG Motorcycle Schools, a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Training Provider operating in Denver, Colorado. T3RG’s prior management team was not retained.

Operating in Colorado since 2003, T3RG Motorcycle Schools trained more than 24,000 students, offering motorcycle safety classes for novice through advanced riders at multiple locations. In 2007, T3RG developed the Civilian Top Gun Training program followed by the introduction of the Civilian Top Gun Competition in 2008. T3RG established market dominance as the exclusive provider of slow speed precision training for civilian riders interested in professional levels of safety and skill previously only available only to law enforcement.

“Ride On intends to continue, expand and advance the programs T3RG began with the goal to be the first choice of new and experienced riders seeking quality instruction,” said Jim Wilson, Owner and President of Ride On. “In addition to the MSF Basic Rider Courses and Civilian Top Gun Precision Riding Courses currently offered, Ride On plans to introduce MSF 3-Wheel and Adventure Bike Rider Courses, Colorado State Rider Skills Testing, and advanced training including private track instruction.”

With shared customer service and quality values, Ride On is sponsored by two of Denver’s premier motorcycle dealerships, Fay Myers Motorcycle World and BMW of Denver. Ride On is also proud to be partnered with Aurora Public Schools.

Ride On has multiple locations in the metro Denver area, and its instructors are fully accredited by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and the Colorado State Patrol’s Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) Program.

To learn more about Ride On Motorcycle Training, our training locations, courses offered and more.

Visit our website: https://RideOnTraining.com

Call: (303) 838-2427

Email: [email protected]

MV Agusta Releases “Super-Exclusive” Superveloce Arsham

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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SUPERVELOCE ARSHAM

THE MOST EXCLUSIVE COLLABORATION IN THE MOTORCYCLE WORLD

Varese, December 7, 2023 – MV Agusta and Daniel Arsham announce their collaboration in creating a super-exclusive limited series to 6 units of MV Agusta Superveloce: The Superveloce Arsham. The Italian luxury motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta and internationally acclaimed artist Daniel Arsham have joined forces for the creation of a dedicated super-exclusive limited series of Superveloce, presented to the world at Miami Art Basel on December 8^th.

The MV Agusta Superveloce is MV Agusta’s most iconic motorcycle currently in production and its distinctive neo-retro design was chosen by the New York-based artis to create a true art piece using his iconic erosion technique.

A close up of the artwork on the tail section of an MV Agusta Superveloce Arsham. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

Daniel Arsham is known for breaking the rules of academic artistry, a trait fully expressed in his signature “erosion” technique. Arsham’s avant-garde erosion method renders the concept of passing time through sculptures. Working in a multitude of disciplines, he creates and crystallizes ambiguous in-between spaces and situations, and stages what he refers to as future relics of the present. Always iconic, most of the objects that he fabricates refer to the late 20th century or millennial era, when technological obsolescence unprecedentedly accelerated along with the digital dematerialization of our world. While the present, the future and the past poetically collide in his intriguing yet playful visions between romanticism and pop art, Arsham also experiments with the timelessness of certain symbols and gestures across cultures.

The concept is astonishingly reminiscent of the intimate nature of the Superveloce itself: disturbingly attractive, avant-garde, incredibly iconic and high-tech yet with clear references to the great classics of motorcycling, MV Agusta’s Superveloce was a natural choice for this project. The series will be limited to only 6 units, this will also make this particular model a true rarity and an object of desire for passionate collectors.

A close up of the artwork on the right side of an MV Agusta Superveloce Arsham. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

Timur Sardarov, CEO, MV Agusta Motor S.p.A., said: “I am thrilled about this incredible collaboration with Daniel Arsham, an artist I truly admire and that has so much in common with MV Agusta in terms of values and philosophy. His works are amazingly inspiring, and together we will take our Motorcycle Art to the next level. ”

Daniel Arsham, said: “I was always fascinated by the automotive world. The design ethos of cars and motorcycles, always fits a particular era and they mark time through their design. The project on the Superveloce was the opportunity to explore a “moving sculpture”, a functional motorcycle that have been transformed into a sculpture, by adding crystal erosions and by applying a colour that is reminiscent of my other artworks and style. Together with MV Agusta we created everything on the bike, including the stand, overcoming engineering challenges and resulting in a new interpretation of Motorcycle Art.”

Artist Daniel Arsham and an MV Agusta Superveloce Arsham. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

About MV Agusta:

MV Agusta is one of the world’s leading premium motorcycles manufacturers. Based in Varese, in Northern Italy, it crafts legendary racetrack-derived bikes. Iconic design and class-leading performance through advanced technologies and materials make MV Agusta motorcycles admired the world over and celebrated as unique pieces of Motorcycle Art. Since 1945, the brand has evolved to become a point of reference in the industry, having won 37 World Championship titles. A record still undisputed.

About Daniel Arsham:

New York based artist Daniel Arsham work explores the fields of fine art, architecture, performance, design and film. Raised in Miami, Arsham attended the Cooper Union in New York City where he received the Gelman Trust Fellowship Award in 2003.

Soon thereafter Arsham toured worldwide with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company as the company’s stage designer. The experience led to an ongoing collaborative practice which continues as Arsham works with world renowned artists, musicians, designers, and brands including Porsche and Dior.

Arsham’s uchronic aesthetics revolves around his concept of fictional archaeology. Working in a multitude of disciplines he creates and crystallizes ambiguous in-between spaces and situations, and stages what he refers to as future relics of the present. Always iconic, most of the objects that he turns into stone refer to the late 20th century or millennial era, when technological obsolescence unprecedentedly accelerated along with the digital dematerialization of our world. While the present, the future and the past poetically collide in his haunted yet playful visions between romanticism and pop art, Arsham also experiments with the timelessness of certain symbols and gestures across cultures.

In recent years Arsham’s practice has begun to bridge the gap between fine art and commerce through a number of commercial business ventures dedicated to the conception of limited edition artworks aimed at reaching a wider global audience, such as Arsham Editions, Arsham Living and Objects IV Life.

In 2021 Arsham was appointed the role of creative director of the Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming the first-ever fine artist to hold a position of this nature.

Arsham’s work has been shown at PS1 in New York, The Museum of Contemporary Art in Miami, The Athens Bienniale in Athens, Greece, The New Museum In New York, Contemporary Arts Center Cincinnati, SCAD Museum of Art in Savannah GA, California and Carré d’Art de Nîmes, and the High Museum of Art in Atlanta GA. Arsham is represented by Galerie Perrotin in Paris, Hong Kong, New York, Seoul, Shanghai and Tokyo. Arsham also shows with Baró Galeria in Lisbon and Mallorca, Ron Mandos in Amsterdam, Nanzuka Gallery in Tokyo, Friedman Benda in New York, and König Galerie in Berlin.

American Flat Track: Yamaha Returns As Official OEM Partner

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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American Flat Track: Yamaha Returns As Official OEM Partner

Yamaha Back as Official OEM Partner of Progressive AFT in 2024

Returns as Title Sponsor of Yamaha Senoia Short Track

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 7, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is pleased to announce that Yamaha Motor Corp., USA will again stand as an Official OEM Partner of Progressive AFT for the upcoming 2024 season.

Additionally, Yamaha will once again serve as the title sponsor for the Yamaha Senoia Short Track at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia, on March 23. This marks the fifth occasion Yamaha has stepped into that role for the series’ visits to the Atlanta area since the manufacturer first opened its corporate offices in Marietta, Georgia, in late 2018.

Yamaha enjoyed another banner season of Progressive AFT competition in 2023, proving itself a title-contending powerhouse in both Mission SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER.

Spearheaded by Estenson Racing’s rising superstar, Dallas Daniels, Yamaha-mounted riders racked up seven victories, 15 top twos, 23 podiums, and 35 top fives in the premier class. That included a pair of 1-2 finishes and an ultimate championship ranking of second and third. Along the way, Daniels demonstrated the all-around excellence of the Yamaha MT-07 by completing the career Grand Slam – earning at least one win on a Mile, Half-Mile, Short Track, and TT – in just his second season competing at the pinnacle of the sport.

It was a similar story in the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles class, where another emerging force, young Tom Drane, led the way aboard his Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F. There, Yamaha-mounted riders secured six wins, 12 top twos, 15 podiums, 25 top fives, and two 1-2 finishes en route to second- and third-place title standings.

Yamaha is well positioned to continue its modern-day dirt track ascent with Daniels and Drane recently confirmed to be back to hunt their respective #1 plates aboard Estenson Racing-tuned Yamahas in 2024.

“We appreciate Yamaha’s continued support of the sport for the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “We’re looking forward to again hosting Yamaha’s Atlanta-based employees in March for another incredible night of racing at Senoia Raceway.”

For more information about Yamaha visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

Progressive AFT series merchandise is available via the official merchandise store at https://aftmerch.com/.

About Yamaha Motor Corp., USA

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the Powersports industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, Outboard Motors, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more.

YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States. YMUS has a corporate office in Cypress, California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Further U.S.-based Yamaha companies include Skeeter Boats (Texas), G3 Boats (Missouri), Bennet Marine (Florida), Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana), and Kracor, Inc. (Wisconsin).

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

Bridgestone Named Official Tire Of FAST Riding School

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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Bridgestone Named Official Tire of FAST Riding School

· New partnership with prestigious advanced riding school in Canada will feature the latest products in Bridgestone’s premium motorcycle tire range to provide riders of all skill levels confidence, precision and comfort at each course.

· Bridgestone will become “Official Tire of FAST Riding School” beginning in January 2024.

· FAST Riding School online registration opens in early December 2023 for the 2024 season.

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario (December 7, 2023) – Bridgestone Canada Inc. (Bridgestone) today announced that Bridgestone will become the “Official Tire of FAST Riding School,” beginning Jan. 1, 2024. FAST Riding School, based at Shannonville Motorsports Park in Shannonville, Ontario, Canada, teaches all skill levels—everyday street riders to advanced track day riders and racers—how to improve their control of a motorcycle, enabling them to become a better and safer rider.

FAST Riding School courses teach riders how to approach and negotiate turns plus braking, cornering, and acceleration techniques and strategies in a controlled environment of a race track that mimics highways and roadways as well as build skills in subsequent phases to hone track riding skills and boost confidence. FAST Riding School will now feature tires from Bridgestone’s premium motorcycle sport tire line, BATTLAX, including the new Bridgestone BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23, to help riders gain sufficient confidence and comfort while learning and completing each course.

“Bridgestone is passionate about motorcycling and helping riders get the most from their riding experience by providing state-of-the-art tires for all types of motorcycles,” said Jared Williams, General Manager Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire business in the United States and Canada. “FAST Riding School is well known for teaching skills to a broad range of riders to help them get the most out of their riding, making this partnership a natural fit. We’re thrilled to enter this partnership and support such a prestigious advanced riding school by allowing everyday street riders and track day riders and racers to experience the precision and confidence of Bridgestone tires first-hand.”

“Bridgestone has a passionate team that is involved in our sport across Canada, and we’re excited to name Bridgestone as the ‘Official Tire of FAST Riding School,’” said Martin Hamel, Chief Instructor and Owner, FAST Riding School. “FAST’s professional instructors tested Bridgestone BATTLAX tires first-hand and were impressed with the grip and durability. Specifically, we’re looking forward to riding on the new BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 tire because it is engineered for rain or shine conditions that we face on a regular basis at FAST.”

Announced in October 2023, the Bridgestone BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 is a sports radial motorcycle tire for street use that is engineered to meet the requirements of sport riders, featuring increased levels of dry grip performance1 whether riding on circuits or cornering on mountain roads. The BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 turns faster lap times in both wet and dry track conditions2,3 compared to its predecessor, delivering confident traction in rain or shine. The BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 will be available in popular sizes in January 2024.

Since 1987, FAST Riding School has taught beginner to advanced motorcycle riders how to improve their riding techniques through unique teaching methods, facilitating their development into a more skilled and secure rider. Riders can choose to use the school’s motorcycles and riding gear or bring their own. FAST Riding School registration opens in early December 2023 for the 2024 season. To learn more, visit www.fastridingschool.com.

Bridgestone’s partnership with FAST Riding School aligns with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which consists of eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter “E” (Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease and Empowerment). The Bridgestone partnership with FAST Riding School aligns with its “Emotion” and “Ease” commitments.

1 Comparison based on BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) vs. previous generation BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S22 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) in internal testing. Results may vary depending on proper tire and vehicle maintenance, surface conditions and riding habits.

2 Comparison based on BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) vs. previous generation BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S22 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) in internal testing using a Yamaha YZF-R1 at Autopolis Speedway (2 min 03.4 sec lap time).

3 Comparison based on BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S23 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) vs. previous generation BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S22 (120/70ZR17 and 190/55ZR17) in internal testing using a BMW S1000RR at Bridgestone Proving Ground (1 min 19.8 sec lap time).

About Bridgestone Canada, Inc.:

Bridgestone Canada Inc. (BSCA) is a member of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO) and a direct subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM), whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is a global leader providing sustainable mobility and advanced solutions. BSCA and BATO develop, manufacture and market Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires. They are focused on retail, wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off road, agricultural and other tires to their customers in Canada and the United States, respectively.

AHRMA Announces Its 2024 Road Race Schedule

David Swarts

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December 7, 2023

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AHRMA Announces Its 2024 Road Race Schedule

AHRMA Announces 2024 Road Race Schedule

(Knoxville, Tennessee) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) 2024 Bridgestone Tires National Historic Cup Roadracing series will unfold over 10 weekends at a variety of racetracks throughout the United States.

“For 2024 we have a nice blend of familiar venues and a return to Pittsburgh which many racers are excited about,” said Carl Anderson, AHRMA’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

The season kicks off February 17 with a full weekend of competition at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, GA and will conclude the weekend of October 10, during the 19th Annual Barber Vintage Festival, in Birmingham, AL.

Right in the middle of the season, AHRMA will return to an iconic venue. The third annual AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey brings AHRMA’s brand of vintage and alternative modern bikes and sidecars to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on the July 18 weekend. The event will also feature vintage observed trials, vintage, and post-vintage motocross as well as vintage flat track.

Bridgestone Tires returns as the 2024 AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing series sponsor.

Mark your calendar now for some of the world’s best classic motorcycle racing events with AHRMA.

2024 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Roadracing Series Schedule*

2/16-18 Roebling Road Raceway; Bloomingdale, GA

3/15-17 Carolina Motorsports Park; Kershaw, SC

4/19-21 Buttonwillow Raceway; Buttonwillow, CA Joint AHRMA/AFM event

5/10-12 Talladega GP Raceway; Munford, AL

5/24-26 Nelson Ledges Road Course; Garrettsville, OH

6/21-23 New Jersey Motorsports Park; Millville, NJ (AAR & SRS)

7/18-21 **WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (AHRMA Classic MotoFest™); Salinas, CA, Joint AHRMA/AFM event

8/2-4 Blackhawk Farms Raceway; South Beloit, IL

9/6-8 Pittsburgh International Race Complex; Wampum, PA

10/10-13 Barber Motorsports Park; Birmingham, AL

*Preliminary Schedule as of 12/6/2023, subject to change

**The AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey event is a no refund event. All AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ racers MUST BE FULL Members (no weekend memberships are available)

The AHRMA Academy of Roadracing (AAR) and the Sidecar Racing School (SRS) will be held on Friday of every event except the Barber Vintage Festival. Pass the school on Friday and be eligible to race the weekend.

Registration for these events will be opening soon at ahrma.motorsportreg.com.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With about 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over) the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

AMA Supercross: Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Announced

December 7, 2023

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team 450 riders Malcolm Stewart (27) and Christian Craig (28) and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team 250 riders RJ Hampshire (24), Guillem Farres (83), and Casey Cochran (166). Photo courtesy Husqvarna.