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Racer Profile: Torin Collins, From Moto3 To MotoAmerica Supersport, In Texas

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Four years of racing and training halfway around the globe can take its toll on a racer, especially when the results aren’t coming together. Putting it on the box can change everything. 

        Canadian Torin Collins was racing with some of the best up-and-coming racers in the world in the British Talent Cup, the European Talent Cup, and the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, but fighting to break into the top 15 wasn’t what he wanted from his career…

            “Racer Profile – From Moto3 To MotoAmerica: Torin Collins,” by Michael Gougis

 

            Looking for a new challenge, Torin Collins showed up at the MotoAmerica round at Circuit of The Americas on a Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750. In his first race on a Supersport bike, he finished fourth in Race One, less than five seconds off the podium. The next day, he went one better, beating veteran David Anthony and AMA Pro Racing all-time race-win-record holder Josh Hayes to finish third. Read about Collins’ remarkable resurgence—in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

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

PREVIEW  October 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 October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

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Triumph Updates Tiger 900 Line With More Power, Capability, Comfort

TRIUMPH RAISES THE BAR

NEW TIGER 900 RANGE FOR 2024

  • New Tiger 900 range delivers more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and more attitude
  • Significant engine upgrade delivering 13% more power, higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT and 9% better fuel economy
  • All-new active safety features and new 7” TFT instruments providing more capability
  • New rider seat and damped handlebar mounting system to provide more long-distance comfort

Delivering more power, torque, capability, and comfort, the new Tiger 900 range from Triumph Motorcycles is raising the bar for middleweight adventure bikes in 2024. The new line-up includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, each providing a significant step-up in performance and specification.

The trademark three-cylinder engine of the Tiger 900 has received a major update, including revised engine components, which provide 13% more power than the previous generation, giving 106.5HP of peak power and a higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT. The new engine also offers greater tractability lower in the rev range. With its T-plane crank and offset firing intervals, the Tiger 900 maintains its characterful and distinctive performance and sound, as well as achieving enhanced performance throughout the whole rev range and up to 9% better fuel economy.

All-new active safety features provide more capability across the range, including enhanced braking for better control and reduced stopping distances, and a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away.

New marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility. The new range also features new 7” TFT instruments, with new graphics and menu system and a new USB-C cockpit charger, as well as My Triumph Bluetooth connectivity as standard on all models.

The new rider seat is flatter and roomier, with heated seats on both Pro models, designed specifically to provide more long-distance comfort. There is .78” (20mm) adjustability on the seat height for all models and an accessory heated low rider seat available which reduces the seat height by a further .78” (20mm). This offers GT models with a potential seat height as low as 31.4 (800mm), which combined with the narrow stand over width, improves accessibility.

 

The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.
The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT (pictured) is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, plus the enhanced handlebar position on the Rally Pro, with the bars .59” (15mm) closer, facilitates a more agile ride while sitting or standing.

Bringing even more Tiger attitude, the 2024 range has new bodywork across the beak, cockpit, and side panels in an integrated design that gives each motorcycle an aggressive, adventure focused stance. New contemporary and dynamic paint schemes and graphics complete the look.

A new Akrapovič silencer heads up the comprehensive list of more than 50 accessories, plus customers can choose from four tailored accessory packs, the Performance, Protection, Trekker, and Expedition kits.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The new range retains all the Tiger 900’s class-leading specification:

  • Optimized cornering ABS and traction control with IMU
  • Up to six riding modes including Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road, plus Rider Configurable for the GT Pro and Rally Pro, and Off-Road Pro for the Rally Pro only
  • Triumph Shift Assist (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Heated grips and seats (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Illuminated switches
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Brembo Stylema® Monobloc brakes
  • Model-specific premium specification suspension tuned for maximum road & off-road capability
    • The GT features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with manually adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The GT Pro features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The Rally Pro benefits from Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks with manual preload, rebound and compression damping and a rear suspension unit with fully adjustable manual preload and rebound damping, 9.45” (240mm) fork travel & 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel
  • Lightweight modular frame
  • Adjustable screen & .79” (20mm) adjustable seat height
  • 5.28-gal (20 liter) fuel tank

MORE PERFORMANCE

Unique to Triumph, the T-plane crank engine with its 1,3,2 firing order and distinctive, raspy triple exhaust bark, has been further developed for the new Tiger 900 range.

Engine revisions have resulted in a power increase of 13% taking the Tiger 900 from 93.7HP to an impressive 106.5HP. This has been achieved while gaining more torque and tractability at low RPM. The increased power can be felt throughout the rev-range, with a more muscular mid-range and improved acceleration.

On the road the new Tiger 900 is agile and easy to ride at low speeds, but with plenty of performance for rapid bursts of acceleration and effortless high-speed touring. In more technical off-road situations, the fine throttle control is intuitive and confidence-inspiring.

Each model benefits from a specific suspension set-up, designed to meet the needs of the rider for each model.

The GT is fitted with high-quality Marzocchi™ suspension with adjustable compression and rebound damping. With 7.08” (180mm) of fork travel and 6.7” (170mm) of rear wheel travel, the set-up has been tuned specifically for the GT to deliver excellent road handling and long-ride comfort with the capability to tackle off-road terrain.

The GT Pro also uses Marzocchi™ suspension. Fully adjustable forks are matched to an electronically adjustable rear suspension unit. This allows for easy and convenient preload adjustments at the touch of a button to suit riders travelling solo, with a pillion or fully loaded.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The Rally Pro uses Showa™ suspension, offering riders full adjustability and a generous 9.45” (240mm) front and 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel. This high-quality progressive suspension set-up provides capability and versatility on all roads.

Complementing this specific suspension, the road-focused GT and GT Pro have lightweight cast alloy wheels, 19” at the front and 17” at the rear, for the perfect balance between road handling and off-road capability. The Rally Pro uses tubeless spoked wheels with a 21” front for pure off-road performance and features a broad tire choice.

Best in class Brembo Stylema™ brake calipers are fitted to all three new Tiger 900 models, ensuring effective stopping power and a sensitive lever feel that helps to keep braking powerful, smooth, and controlled.

MORE CAPABILITY

The new Tiger 900 for 2024 features new active safety features to improve visibility on the road, including a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away. In addition, new marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility.

Optimized cornering ABS and Traction Control comes as standard across all three Tiger 900 models. Together with the ride-by-wire throttle, the level of assistance can be altered with four different standard riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road.

The GT Pro has five modes with the additional Rider Programable mode allowing fine tuning to suit the rider’s preferences and riding style. The Rally Pro has six modes with the extra Off-Road Pro mode disabling ABS and traction control completely to allow the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s capability to be fully utilized off road.

The new enhanced braking system automatically balances front and rear braking effort, working in harmony with the optimized cornering ABS system, to improve stability under hard braking while significantly reducing stopping distances.

Triumph’s Slip and Assist clutch system is fitted to all three Tiger 900 models, giving light clutch lever action to reduce rider fatigue, especially for congested urban riding conditions and for technical off-road riding. This system also improves rear wheel control under rapid deceleration, assisting with smooth and assured corner entry on a range of surfaces.

The Pro models are also equipped with the Triumph Shift Assist system. This allows clutch-less gear changes both up and down the gearbox for seamless acceleration and super-smooth deceleration.

The My Triumph Connectivity System is now standard on all Tiger 900 models. Music, phone and turn by turn navigation can all be accessed via the new intuitive and easy-to-read 7” TFT display which is bonded to the glass for a crisp, non-reflective image. Heated grips and seats plus a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are also standard on both Pro models.

MORE ALL-DAY COMFORT

The seat has been redesigned for enhanced long-distance comfort while retaining the ease of movement for the rider to find their perfect ergonomic position. All models feature .78” (20mm) of adjustability, as well as heated seats for both Pro models, for optimum comfort in all weather.

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, while the handlebar position on the Rally Pro has been moved back by .6” (15mm). This slight reduction in reach improves seated comfort while also improving rider control and bike agility in the standing position when riding off-road.

Even the shape of the 5.28-gal (20-liter) fuel tank has been carefully considered to provide the perfect seated riding position without compromising control when standing. An adjustable screen with five settings spanning 1.96” (50mm), ensures all riders can enjoy excellent high-speed wind protection.

MORE ATTITUDE

The aggressive Tiger styling and distinctive adventure-focused stance has been revised and sharpened. The new bodywork now has a cleaner, more integrated design that flows beautifully from the beak, through the cockpit and into the side panels.

Three striking new paint schemes and graphics are available for each model. The GT and GT Pro are available in Snowdonia White as standard, with two premium paint options, Graphite and Sapphire Black, and Carnival Red and Sapphire Black. The Rally Pro is available in Carbon Black and Sapphire Black, with the option to upgrade to the striking Ash Grey and Intense Orange or Matte Khaki Green and Matte Phantom Black.

ACCESSORIES

Over 50 accessories and four accessory kits are available for the new Tiger 900 range.  The fully loaded Performance accessory pack includes a brand new Akrapovič silencer, the first of several new exhaust systems developed in partnership. With a lightweight titanium design with carbon end caps, the new silencer delivers a 2.2 lb (1kg) weight saving and an even better sound. The pack also includes front and rear scrolling indicators with new marker light feature and billet machined adventure foot pegs.  

The Protection Pack showcases key practical accessories, lower and upper engine bar kits, tank pad, sump guard, fork protectors, radiator guard and for off-road, a headlight guard kit. The Trekker and Expedition packs provide two distinct, tailored luggage options for extended touring or off-road adventures.

ON THE ROAD

Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “The Tiger 900 already has an excellent reputation as an award-winner and rally competitor, enjoying success against production motorcycles as well as purpose-built off-road machines. In fact, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro was used by World Enduro Champion Iván Cervantes, securing champion titles at the Baja Aragón Rally, 1000 Dunas Raid and Bassela Enduro in 2022.

 With such an impressive pedigree, we needed to set ourselves a high target to improve the new Tiger 900. We were focused on raising the game in the middleweight category all over again. As a result, we’ve delivered a significant step-up, with more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and an aggressive style and poise.”

USA Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $14,995 USD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $16,895 USD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $17,395 USD

 

Canadian Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $16,995 CAD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $19,295 CAD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $20,195 CAD

Orders can be placed now at Triumph dealers, with bikes available from early 2024.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Type Liquid Cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
Capacity 888 cc
Bore 3.07” (78.0 mm)
Stroke 2.43” (61.9 mm)
Compression 13.0:1
Maximum power 106.5 HP (108 PS)
(79.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm
Maximum torque 66.38 Lb-Ft (90 Nm) @ 6,850 rpm
Fuel system Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Exhaust Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system, side mounted stainless steel silencer
Final drive O-ring Chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slip and assist
Gearbox 6 speed

 

CHASSIS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Frame Tubular steel trellis main frame. Fabricated, bolt-on aluminum rear subframe
Swingarm Twin sided cast aluminum swingarm
Front wheel Cast aluminum, 19 x 2.5 in Spoked tubeless, 21 x 2.15 in
Rear wheel Cast aluminum, 17 x 4.25 in Spoked tubeless, 17 x 4.25 in
Front tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 100/90-19 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 90/90-21
Rear tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 150/70R17 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 150/70-R17
Front suspension Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) upside down forks, manual rebound and compression damping adjustment, 7.08” (180mm travel) Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD forks, manual preload, rebound and compression damping adjustment, 9.45” (240mm) travel
Rear suspension Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload and rebound damping adjustment

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

Marzocchi rear suspension unit, electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

Showa rear suspension unit, manually adjustable preload and rebound damping

9.05” (230mm) wheel travel

Front brakes Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo Stylema 4 piston Monobloc calipers. Radial front master cylinder, Optimized Cornering ABS
Rear brakes Single 10.03” (255mm) disc. Single piston sliding caliper. Optimized cornering ABS
Instruments Full-color 7” TFT instrument pack with My Triumph Connectivity System
         

 

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Length 90.74” (2305 mm) 90.74” (2317 mm)
Width (handlebars) 36.61” (930 mm) 36.81” (935 mm)
Height without mirrors Adjustable 55.51” (1410 mm) – 57.48” (1460 mm) Adjustable

57.16” (1452 mm) – 59.13” (1502 mm)

Seat height Adjustable 32.28” (820 mm) – 33.07” (840 mm) Adjustable 33.85” (860 mm) – 34.64 (880 mm)
Wheelbase 61.25 (1556 mm) 61.06 (1551 mm)
Rake 24.6° 24.4°
Trail TBC TBC
Wet weight 482.81 lbs (219 kg)  489.42 lbs (222 kg) 502.65 lbs (228 kg)
Fuel tank capacity 5.28 gal (20 litres)
         

 

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Fuel Consumption 60.4 mpg (4.7 litres / 100 km)
CO2 Figures 108 g/km
Standard EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

 

SERVICE

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Service interval 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first

 

Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1992 Norton NRS588

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was part of a small design and development team working on a new Wankel rotary engine- powered Norton, but actually it was 47 years ago! 

        The bike was to have an air-cooled Wankel twin-rotor engine and monocoque-style steel frame. By 1980 the bike was still not in production and I emigrated to the USA; 12 years later I read that a Wankel-powered Norton racer had won the Isle of Man Senior TT, the first time a Norton had won the race since 1961!

 

            “Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1992 Norton NRS588,” by Mick Ofield

 

            In 1982 Norton produced a batch of air-cooled rotary bikes for police use, followed up in 1987 by a run of regular street bikes. Norton hired Brian Crighton as service manager, and he quickly realized the rotary would have great potential as a race engine. Management was not convinced but eventually allowed Brian to work in his own time with a police bike test mule. The rest, as they say, is history—and historic. Read the details in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

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

PREVIEW  October 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 October 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

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Click here for Roadracing World sample issue (One sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

 

2024 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Scheduled 6/30-7/6 In Du Quoin

2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Set For June 30-July 6

The week-long amateur competition returns to Du Quoin, Ill.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — America’s premier amateur flat track competition will return to Du Quoin, Ill., as the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will run from June 30-July 6 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.

The AMA will operate and promote the event, which is the only race in the United States where a rider can earn an AMA National No. 1 plate in amateur flat track racing.

“We’re pleased to announce the upcoming AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, and we’re grateful to Mission Foods for their continued commitment as our title sponsor for the third consecutive year,” AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant said. “We eagerly anticipate another exceptional week of racing and look forward to seeing the many outstanding competitors at this year’s event.”

The week-long amateur competition will bring together flat track’s budding stars, hosting multiple age groups across four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Half-Mile and Mile.

In addition to the many AMA National No. 1 plates that will be awarded at the conclusion of the event, the AMA will also crown winners of several special awards — including the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award, which is given to the most promising amateur rider that is set to make the jump to the professional ranks. Past winners of the Horizon Award include Chase Saathoff, Kody Kopp, Dallas Daniels, Briar Bauman, Jared Mees, Bryan Smith and Roger Lee Hayden.

The Bill Werner AMA Fast Brain Award — which is granted to the rider who shows ability both on the track and in the classroom — will also be awarded during the event.

The AMA will also recognize the Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and the Youth Racer of the Year at the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship.

More information on the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship can be found at https://americanmotorcyclist.com/flat-track-racing/. 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

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

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

WorldSBK: Pata Yamaha Prometeon Welcomes Rea Ahead Of Jerez Test

Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Welcomes Jonathan Rea

Just 24 hours after the end of the 2023 season, six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea stepped into the Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK pit box for the first time to meet his #65 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK – featuring a special grey, white and carbon fibre winter test livery which hints at some of Yamaha’s historical colour schemes. 

Welcomed by his new crew and Yamaha’s engineers, Rea enjoyed a detailed riding position fitting in advance of one of the most highly-anticipated manufacturer changes in WorldSBK history. Tomorrow will be the first chance to see Rea and the #65 R1 WorldSBK on track, as two days of testing commence at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto.

 

Jonathan Rea and the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team focused on setting up the ergonomics on his new YZF-R1 Monday at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Jonathan Rea and the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team focused on setting up the ergonomics on his new YZF-R1 Monday at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

 

Jonathan Rea: Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“It’s been an incredible first day and it was so surreal putting on my Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK polo – the feeling in blue is really nice – and when I walked into the box, everyone was so enthusiastic. I felt a lot of love and support straight away – the attention to detail on the team is amazing. From even my rider office having personalised logos in there already, to getting perfectly fitted on the bike – the attention to detail on that process was incredible. I just can’t wait now to spin my first laps on the R1. It’s a bike that I’ve seen up close on track but never had an opportunity to ride, so for tomorrow the main idea is to get comfortable on the bike – to understand my crew, for them to understand me and of course, to learn and have a positive outcome. Between now and Phillip Island we have a lot of time, but first impressions are always important and today was a really good one. I’m really excited to start and I want to thank everyone from Crescent Racing, Yamaha Motor Europe and all the sponsors for this opportunity because I think it’s going to be a great partnership and I’m looking forward to it.”

 

Paul Denning: Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“We witnessed one of the most exciting race performances ever in WorldSBK yesterday afternoon, and here we are only 24 hours later looking forward to a surreal moment. Back in the day, I honestly never dreamed we would get a rider of Jonathan Rea’s stature to join our team and to see him climbing on the R1 today with a huge smile on his face has created an incredibly enthusiastic atmosphere and a lot of hope for the 2024 season. The next two days will be extremely interesting, but we want to start in a very step-by-step way without any pressure. The plan is to allow Jonathan to learn the R1 after so many years on a different bike and to treat this as the “first touch”, the first experience together and build from here. “JR” is a rider that history has shown will always deliver the goods, and we can’t wait to start this journey together.”

WorldSBK: Lowes Gets New Crew Chief At Kawasaki

Winter Test Marks New Start Towards 2024 For KRT

Just days after the end of the 2023 WorldSBK Championship at the Jerez circuit in Spain intense preparations for a new look 2024 season will begin for the official Kawasaki Racing Team, between 31 October to 1 November.

The 2024 rider line up will consist of long-time colleague Alex Lowes, now joined by new signing Axel Bassani.
 

Alex is a proven race winner and podium finisher about to enter his fifth season as a KRT rider, while Axel has been the Independent Teams’ Rider Champion for the past two seasons. The 2024 season will be Axel’s first year inside an official WorldSBK team set-up.
 

KRT’s tradition of unveiling a special winter test livery will continue at this test, with the unique off-season team branding to be used in all tests before the start of the 2024 season itself.
 

With a new KRT riding line up and a wide-ranging set of new technical rules to be met in 2024, KRT has been planning the shape and scale of the 2024 team for some time. The new personnel structure will work together for the first time at the forthcoming Jerez test, as will some of the technical modifications required to suit the new regulations covering combined bike and rider weight, crankshaft and balance shaft mass, fuel load restrictions, RPM limits and more.

 

(From left) Alex Lowes' new Crew Chief Pere Riba, rider Alex Lowes, Kawasaki Team Manager Guim Roda, rider Axel Bassani, and Bassani's Crew Chief Marcel Duinker. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
(From left) Alex Lowes’ new Crew Chief Pere Riba, rider Alex Lowes, Kawasaki Team Manager Guim Roda, rider Axel Bassani, and Bassani’s Crew Chief Marcel Duinker. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

 
For 2024 Alex will have Pere Riba as his crew chief, while Axel will work with long time KRT crew chief Marcel Duinker. Other internal changes are also ongoing to meet the challenge of what all expect to be an exciting immediate future, full of new ambitions and opportunities.
 
For the riders this test is an important one for many reasons, if in a slightly different way, given their contrasting experiences of the Ninja ZX-10RR to date.
 
Alex will be building on all the info he has acquired so far and is determined to set the scene to achieve race wins in 2024.
 
Axel will obviously require time to get used to his new environment, team and machine. He is understandably super-excited about his new opportunity but will arrive with a professional approach to make as much progress as quickly as possible.
 

Alex Lowes, stated: “We are already focused on 2024. We know the areas we want to improve with our package so now we must work hard to get the data we need to step forward in those areas. We’re changing some of the staff in the garage so I’m excited to get to work on the new relationships, with the target being to bring out more of our potential next year.”
 

Axel Bassani, stated: “I am happy to start with this new adventure with Kawasaki. It is like a dream for me because it is a really good team with a lot of history. It is important for me to start with a relaxed mood, try to understand the bike, my new team and after we will see what happens.”
 

Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We have finished an era, nine years together with Johnny and now we start a new chapter together with Alex. In the beginning there will be some differences because they are two different human beings, riders, characters, so for sure I will need my time to understand to match together with Alex. But I am motivated with this new challenge. We know Alex has good speed and then I will try my best together with my guys to get the best from him and improve the package. He knows the bike and the team and I will try to focus more on himself and get the best from him. Now we start the winter tests and the target for these two days is know each other, step-by-step to build the package.”
 

Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Axel Bassani, stated: “It is a shame in some ways how  the season finished because Alex was very competitive. It was a pleasure working with him all these years and we have a good relationship. Even though he has moved I am sure this good relationship will remain. Now we start a new chapter with Axel. I met him for the first time the other day and instantly we had a good conversation. He is young but he is already experienced, very competitive and incredibly motivated.  I am sure he will help lift us in KRT to an even higher level. At this test we will go one step at a time but I am already excited to start the 2024 season.”
 

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “We start new season with a big motivation to learn from our past experience and with the aim to keep improving our Ninja ZX-10RR package in a variety of ways. We have been working hard with FIM, Dorna and MSMA to balance a bit more the show for the fans. Our actual package still has potential to work better, but the rules need to allow us to flex more within what are strict Stock Rules and be more “racing spirit” oriented. Let’s see if new rules give us a measure of this help. That will not be the only change required, and we will need to work on the right way to implement any changes but it is the correct direction. Also we are making some changes internally at KRT and the most obvious will be Alex working with Pere Riba, while Marcel Duinker will have the task to build the speed and understanding of Axel on our Ninja ZX-10RR. Additionally, Pau, one of mechanics of Alex, is moving to work with Arturo, while Uri is leaving to follow Johnny on his blue adventure. Mattia will be moved up again to the first line and more changes will be introduced in the team for next season all aimed at staying competitive with the strong expectation of machine innovations from other manufacturers – nothing stands still in WorldSBK. We all are so motivated, and changes like this are always good, to try new things, so let’s go for it, and defend green colours in 2024 even stronger and prouder than ever.”
 

                                                #KRTNewStart2024

WorldSBK: Cremona Circuit To Host Series For Next Five Years

WorldSBK welcomes Cremona Circuit as new venue for 2024

Round 10 of the 2024 World Championship will feature racing across three series: WorldSBK, WorldSSP, and the FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship. A five-year contract was signed between the Lombard circuit and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), which secures their place in the Championship from 2024 to 2028. It was designed by Jarno Zaffelli’s Studio Dromo, which has a reputation for its work on prominent racetracks.
 
Located just south of Milan, Cremona Circuit is now set to undergo the homologation process and is actively preparing for this significant event by implementing several important modifications and improvements, including:
 

Track Layout Enhancements: Changes to the layout of the track, with a notable focus on turns #11, #12, and #13.
 

High-Quality Resurfacing: Refurbishing specific areas of the track with quality materials to enhance the track’s condition.
 

Track Length Extension: An extension of approximately 90 meters to the track’s length to enrich racing dynamics.
 

Spectator Facilities Expansion: Construction of new grandstands and public areas to accommodate the ever-growing WorldSBK fan base.
 

Modern Race Direction Facilities: The addition of a contemporary structure to house offices for Race Direction and support staff to manage the entirety of the event effectively.

 

The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director:

“WorldSBK is thrilled to introduce Cremona Circuit to the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The addition of Cremona to our calendar marks a significant milestone and we’re fully committed to delivering top-quality racing experiences to our fans. This five-year agreement stands as a clear testament to that unwavering dedication as we’re looking forward propelling this venue onto the global scene.”
 

Alessandro Canevarolo, Cremona Circuit CEO:

“We are really happy, excited and hyped for this new great challenge. It will be an opportunity to take an extra, important step to grow, and with great satisfaction bring back the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship to Lombardy, missing for ten long years. After some negotiations, we immediately got to work to make the necessary changes for hosting this major event. Together with the management, the goal is to create an event that can showcase the area, the region and represent Italy in all its values. The goal has been clear ever since I started this adventure eight years ago. We started from afar, facing every moment with great spirit, passion, and dedication. Only in this way were we able to fulfil the big dream: seeing the Superbike World Championship race on the asphalt of our Cremona Circuit.”

Honda CR Electric Prototype Makes Successful Race Debut In Japan

Honda CR Electric Proto Shows Leading Pace in Valuable Debut Weekend

Team HRC completes a successful competitive debut for the CR Electric Proto

 

Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

 

SAITAMA, Japan – After a successful qualifying run yesterday, Sunday’s race day brought mixed fortunes for Team HRC but a race-leading demonstration of pace of the new CR Electric Proto at round 8 of the All Japan Motocross Championship.

In the morning’s practice, Team Honda HRC advisor and test rider Trey Canard—racing as a wildcard entry—followed on seamlessly from his Saturday pace to go second-fastest on the all-electric #41, making its global competitive debut this weekend in the premier IA1 class against 450cc gas-powered machinery.

Then came the first-ever race for Honda’s new prototype machine, in the form of the first moto. The opening race was smooth, with Canard starting strongly, settling into a rhythm and crossing the line second aboard the CR Electric Proto. As learning, development and ultimately the pace continued to improve throughout the weekend, Canard closed to just 0.7 seconds off the fastest lap and was looking fast.

In the second moto, Canard again started well and looked to be set to keep building on the weekend’s momentum, but an early crash with moto 1 rival Jay Wilson unfortunately put him out of the race.

Returning for the third moto, Canard made best use of the Honda’s instant electric torque and again started strongly, taking the lead exiting the first corner. In fact, Canard took two of the three holeshots on CR Electric Proto.

Starting to stretch that lead from his weekend-long rival, the #27 of Wilson, it would have been the perfect culmination of the weekend’s learning and work on the CR Electric Proto to take the machine’s first win in its first-ever competitive weekend—but unfortunately, as the track continued to get ever more rutted, Canard crashed with 12 and a half minutes remaining of the 15-minute race.

Nonetheless, with the opportunity provided by racing to learn, develop and prove the prototype machine in the heat of battle for the first time, it has been a successful and encouraging debut for the CR Electric Proto—a weekend that has provided valuable data for ongoing development of Honda’s all-electric motocross initiative.

 

Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

 

Trey Canard

“This weekend was definitely a big challenge for me, but it was a great race for our development. Each time I was on the track, we improved the motorcycle and the CR Electric Proto team adapted to the challenge. We had some shines of brilliance as a team, the starts being one of them, with two of the three holeshots. There were also some sections on the track that were very impressive, and that makes me excited for the future of this motorcycle. I’m disappointed to not finish all of the motos after all of the hard work the team has put in, but I think we showed that the potential of the bike is quite high, especially for our very first attempt at racing. I’m grateful to be a part of this effort, and I’m very proud of each and every person who has worked so hard.”

Taichi Honda: Team HRC Team Manager

“First of all, I would like to thank the development team and everyone involved for preparing the CR Electric Proto to be ready for competition in such a short time. I would also like to thank Trey Canard for showing his potential, even though he has only had a few tests. We had three heats for the first time today, and we will take what we learned from each race and feed it back to the ongoing development of the CR Electric project.”

Video: Pata Yamaha Thanks Toprak Razgatlioglu For His Service

For All the Great Things You Gave Us. Thank you, Toprak

The final race weekend of the 2023 season was an emotional one for Yamaha as they acknowledged the parting of Toprak Razgatlıoğlu with several special nods to the title winning Turk – including a farewell video which has been released to sum up the best moments shared and sentiments felt.

The 27-year-old has taken 131 race starts with Yamaha in WorldSBK since 2020 and in this time he has achieved a remarkable 100 podiums, 37 wins and 12 pole positions with the brand, as well as a superb World Championship crown in 2021. Toprak not only brought success, celebrations and a supreme riding style to the blue corner, but his unique personality, humour and showmanship too. Naturally, all those who worked with him have fond and funny memories of their time with the #54 rider.

These were revealed in special interviews carried out with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team and key figures from Yamaha Racing ahead of the final round, and they made for interesting viewing with a wide range of, sometimes surprising, answers.

 

 

“I’ll never forget it, in 2021 we were in Indonesia and we spent so much time talking about the championship, it was amazing. He was really excited and we were eating a pizza and French fries together and it was really fun, especially because he then became champion.” – Andrea Locatelli, team-mate

“All the way back to the start, our first race together. He was sick with the ‘flu, he was struggling, but Kenan Sofuoğlu (Toprak’s Manager) told us that he could win the race. That’s exactly what he did. From that moment everything moved forward. But the wider picture is what I’ll remember most; the rider he became with us and the friendships made that I hope will last long term.” – Paul Denning, Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“The first stoppie I saw him do was just massive, I was standing in pitlane thinking ‘what is this?’ There’s been lots of fun along the way. Winning the title was unbelievable, a total dream come true. He made that happen, it was really emotional.” – Russ Joyner, Chief Mechanic

“Standing on the podium with him after his first victory with Yamaha is a memory that will stay in my heart forever.” – Andrea Dosoli, Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager

When asked to describe Toprak in one word the simple yet powerful answers were testament to the talent and determination he’s shown during the past four seasons with Yamaha…

“Extraordinary”

“Incomparable”

“Relentless”

“Magic”

“Outstanding”

For the victories, the joys, the humour and the humility. For everything you gave us. Thank you, Toprak.

WorldSBK: Race Two Results From Jerez

WSBK R2
WSBK Points after R2 FINAL

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Drama in Jerez: Bautista claims victory as Razgatlioglu is penalised in WorldSBK Season Finale

 

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.

In an unforgettable showdown, the top two contenders for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship engaged in a fierce duel at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured the win, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) initially crossing the finish line first but was promptly docked one position for stepping outside the track limits. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), aiming for a high note farewell with Kawasaki, was in the lead before an unfortunate crash on Lap 5.

In a day of highs for Yamaha, Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) achieved his second career podium, capping off a brilliant season for the GYTR GRT Yamaha team as his team mate Remy Gardner took fourth place. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) emerged as the top Independent rider in fifth position. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured sixth place, securing fifth overall in the Championship standings.

Bautista’s win at Jerez concluded his exceptional season, marked by consistent victories and his second World Championship title.

 

Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“For sure it’s been a really good season. It wasn’t perfect because of course we made mistakes but it’s the best way to finish the season so far here in Jerez winning three races. Especially in Race 2, the battle was amazing. With Toprak we did a lot of overtakes, all were very special and agressive but at the same time we were correct between us. For sure, I enjoyed a lot this race, even more than the one of Portimao because here I had nothing to lose. The support here with the Spanish fans was incredible. I was so happy to end the season here.”

Razgatlioglu took second place, finishing runner-up in the Championship and leaving Yamaha with numerous remarkable performances.

 

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) finished sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) got sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P2 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“I passed the chequered flag in P1, this is good for me. I touched the green for track limits, but I didn’t understand as I felt the bike sliding. Maybe, after sliding, I touched it. I didn’t gain an advantage, but rules are rules. For my last day with Yamaha, I just tried to finish in a good position. I needed to try to have good memories of my last race and winning with Yamaha. I’m a little bit sad, but I did a very good job. I gave more than 100% just like at Portimao; I am really fighting with him. I needed some luck because, in the last two races, I didn’t have luck. I’m sad but generally happy for my last race with Yamaha, because everybody could see I gave more than 100%.”

Rea’s season ended on a bittersweet note as he aimed for a high farewell with Kawasaki but suffered an unfortunate crash at Jerez.

 

Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P17 | Jonathan Rea | Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK

“Strange feelings overall to be honest, not from a performance or results side but because I’m leaving an incredible team. My last day in green and that’s what is strange. Obviously, not the result I wanted to finish off with for my team, they deserved a lot better. What we did prove was that the Ninja ZX-10RR still has potential and up until that point of the race, I felt quite in control with a really good rhythm. There were times when I was like ‘ooof, I’ve got a magic tyre’! The bike was hooking up well and going forwards. Pere made a bold decision to make an incredible change, something quite big on the bike that we wanted to try. We didn’t go down without a fight and it was really frustrating to lose the front. Potentially, I could have just gave up the corner a bit, I was a bit fast on entry but I tried to pull it down and with too much lean angle, I was down.

I wanted to finish the race as it would be too easy to pull in. My footpeg had broken off and my handlebar bent forward but I was still able to lap in the 1’41s. It makes me even more disappointed with what could’ve been but that was our race. It sums up the highs and lows we’ve had this year; some incredible highs but difficult moments but it can’t darken the moments I’ve had at KRT. It’s been a whirlwind journey and something I’ll never forget.”

Racer Profile: Torin Collins, From Moto3 To MotoAmerica Supersport, In Texas

Torin Collins (14) dives past 4-Time AMA Superbike Champion (and race-wins record holder) Josh Hayes (4) on his way to a podium finish in Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Torin Collins (14) dives past 4-Time AMA Superbike Champion (and race-wins record holder) Josh Hayes (4) on his way to a podium finish in Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Four years of racing and training halfway around the globe can take its toll on a racer, especially when the results aren’t coming together. Putting it on the box can change everything. 

        Canadian Torin Collins was racing with some of the best up-and-coming racers in the world in the British Talent Cup, the European Talent Cup, and the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, but fighting to break into the top 15 wasn’t what he wanted from his career…

            “Racer Profile – From Moto3 To MotoAmerica: Torin Collins,” by Michael Gougis

 

            Looking for a new challenge, Torin Collins showed up at the MotoAmerica round at Circuit of The Americas on a Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750. In his first race on a Supersport bike, he finished fourth in Race One, less than five seconds off the podium. The next day, he went one better, beating veteran David Anthony and AMA Pro Racing all-time race-win-record holder Josh Hayes to finish third. Read about Collins’ remarkable resurgence—in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

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

PREVIEW  October 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 October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

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Triumph Updates Tiger 900 Line With More Power, Capability, Comfort

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro (left) and Tiger 900 Rally Pro (right). Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro (left) and Tiger 900 Rally Pro (right). Photo courtesy Triumph.

TRIUMPH RAISES THE BAR

NEW TIGER 900 RANGE FOR 2024

  • New Tiger 900 range delivers more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and more attitude
  • Significant engine upgrade delivering 13% more power, higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT and 9% better fuel economy
  • All-new active safety features and new 7” TFT instruments providing more capability
  • New rider seat and damped handlebar mounting system to provide more long-distance comfort

Delivering more power, torque, capability, and comfort, the new Tiger 900 range from Triumph Motorcycles is raising the bar for middleweight adventure bikes in 2024. The new line-up includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, each providing a significant step-up in performance and specification.

The trademark three-cylinder engine of the Tiger 900 has received a major update, including revised engine components, which provide 13% more power than the previous generation, giving 106.5HP of peak power and a higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT. The new engine also offers greater tractability lower in the rev range. With its T-plane crank and offset firing intervals, the Tiger 900 maintains its characterful and distinctive performance and sound, as well as achieving enhanced performance throughout the whole rev range and up to 9% better fuel economy.

All-new active safety features provide more capability across the range, including enhanced braking for better control and reduced stopping distances, and a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away.

New marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility. The new range also features new 7” TFT instruments, with new graphics and menu system and a new USB-C cockpit charger, as well as My Triumph Bluetooth connectivity as standard on all models.

The new rider seat is flatter and roomier, with heated seats on both Pro models, designed specifically to provide more long-distance comfort. There is .78” (20mm) adjustability on the seat height for all models and an accessory heated low rider seat available which reduces the seat height by a further .78” (20mm). This offers GT models with a potential seat height as low as 31.4 (800mm), which combined with the narrow stand over width, improves accessibility.

 

The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.
The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT (pictured) is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, plus the enhanced handlebar position on the Rally Pro, with the bars .59” (15mm) closer, facilitates a more agile ride while sitting or standing.

Bringing even more Tiger attitude, the 2024 range has new bodywork across the beak, cockpit, and side panels in an integrated design that gives each motorcycle an aggressive, adventure focused stance. New contemporary and dynamic paint schemes and graphics complete the look.

A new Akrapovič silencer heads up the comprehensive list of more than 50 accessories, plus customers can choose from four tailored accessory packs, the Performance, Protection, Trekker, and Expedition kits.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The new range retains all the Tiger 900’s class-leading specification:

  • Optimized cornering ABS and traction control with IMU
  • Up to six riding modes including Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road, plus Rider Configurable for the GT Pro and Rally Pro, and Off-Road Pro for the Rally Pro only
  • Triumph Shift Assist (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Heated grips and seats (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Illuminated switches
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Brembo Stylema® Monobloc brakes
  • Model-specific premium specification suspension tuned for maximum road & off-road capability
    • The GT features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with manually adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The GT Pro features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The Rally Pro benefits from Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks with manual preload, rebound and compression damping and a rear suspension unit with fully adjustable manual preload and rebound damping, 9.45” (240mm) fork travel & 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel
  • Lightweight modular frame
  • Adjustable screen & .79” (20mm) adjustable seat height
  • 5.28-gal (20 liter) fuel tank

MORE PERFORMANCE

Unique to Triumph, the T-plane crank engine with its 1,3,2 firing order and distinctive, raspy triple exhaust bark, has been further developed for the new Tiger 900 range.

Engine revisions have resulted in a power increase of 13% taking the Tiger 900 from 93.7HP to an impressive 106.5HP. This has been achieved while gaining more torque and tractability at low RPM. The increased power can be felt throughout the rev-range, with a more muscular mid-range and improved acceleration.

On the road the new Tiger 900 is agile and easy to ride at low speeds, but with plenty of performance for rapid bursts of acceleration and effortless high-speed touring. In more technical off-road situations, the fine throttle control is intuitive and confidence-inspiring.

Each model benefits from a specific suspension set-up, designed to meet the needs of the rider for each model.

The GT is fitted with high-quality Marzocchi™ suspension with adjustable compression and rebound damping. With 7.08” (180mm) of fork travel and 6.7” (170mm) of rear wheel travel, the set-up has been tuned specifically for the GT to deliver excellent road handling and long-ride comfort with the capability to tackle off-road terrain.

The GT Pro also uses Marzocchi™ suspension. Fully adjustable forks are matched to an electronically adjustable rear suspension unit. This allows for easy and convenient preload adjustments at the touch of a button to suit riders travelling solo, with a pillion or fully loaded.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The Rally Pro uses Showa™ suspension, offering riders full adjustability and a generous 9.45” (240mm) front and 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel. This high-quality progressive suspension set-up provides capability and versatility on all roads.

Complementing this specific suspension, the road-focused GT and GT Pro have lightweight cast alloy wheels, 19” at the front and 17” at the rear, for the perfect balance between road handling and off-road capability. The Rally Pro uses tubeless spoked wheels with a 21” front for pure off-road performance and features a broad tire choice.

Best in class Brembo Stylema™ brake calipers are fitted to all three new Tiger 900 models, ensuring effective stopping power and a sensitive lever feel that helps to keep braking powerful, smooth, and controlled.

MORE CAPABILITY

The new Tiger 900 for 2024 features new active safety features to improve visibility on the road, including a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away. In addition, new marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility.

Optimized cornering ABS and Traction Control comes as standard across all three Tiger 900 models. Together with the ride-by-wire throttle, the level of assistance can be altered with four different standard riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road.

The GT Pro has five modes with the additional Rider Programable mode allowing fine tuning to suit the rider’s preferences and riding style. The Rally Pro has six modes with the extra Off-Road Pro mode disabling ABS and traction control completely to allow the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s capability to be fully utilized off road.

The new enhanced braking system automatically balances front and rear braking effort, working in harmony with the optimized cornering ABS system, to improve stability under hard braking while significantly reducing stopping distances.

Triumph’s Slip and Assist clutch system is fitted to all three Tiger 900 models, giving light clutch lever action to reduce rider fatigue, especially for congested urban riding conditions and for technical off-road riding. This system also improves rear wheel control under rapid deceleration, assisting with smooth and assured corner entry on a range of surfaces.

The Pro models are also equipped with the Triumph Shift Assist system. This allows clutch-less gear changes both up and down the gearbox for seamless acceleration and super-smooth deceleration.

The My Triumph Connectivity System is now standard on all Tiger 900 models. Music, phone and turn by turn navigation can all be accessed via the new intuitive and easy-to-read 7” TFT display which is bonded to the glass for a crisp, non-reflective image. Heated grips and seats plus a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are also standard on both Pro models.

MORE ALL-DAY COMFORT

The seat has been redesigned for enhanced long-distance comfort while retaining the ease of movement for the rider to find their perfect ergonomic position. All models feature .78” (20mm) of adjustability, as well as heated seats for both Pro models, for optimum comfort in all weather.

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, while the handlebar position on the Rally Pro has been moved back by .6” (15mm). This slight reduction in reach improves seated comfort while also improving rider control and bike agility in the standing position when riding off-road.

Even the shape of the 5.28-gal (20-liter) fuel tank has been carefully considered to provide the perfect seated riding position without compromising control when standing. An adjustable screen with five settings spanning 1.96” (50mm), ensures all riders can enjoy excellent high-speed wind protection.

MORE ATTITUDE

The aggressive Tiger styling and distinctive adventure-focused stance has been revised and sharpened. The new bodywork now has a cleaner, more integrated design that flows beautifully from the beak, through the cockpit and into the side panels.

Three striking new paint schemes and graphics are available for each model. The GT and GT Pro are available in Snowdonia White as standard, with two premium paint options, Graphite and Sapphire Black, and Carnival Red and Sapphire Black. The Rally Pro is available in Carbon Black and Sapphire Black, with the option to upgrade to the striking Ash Grey and Intense Orange or Matte Khaki Green and Matte Phantom Black.

ACCESSORIES

Over 50 accessories and four accessory kits are available for the new Tiger 900 range.  The fully loaded Performance accessory pack includes a brand new Akrapovič silencer, the first of several new exhaust systems developed in partnership. With a lightweight titanium design with carbon end caps, the new silencer delivers a 2.2 lb (1kg) weight saving and an even better sound. The pack also includes front and rear scrolling indicators with new marker light feature and billet machined adventure foot pegs.  

The Protection Pack showcases key practical accessories, lower and upper engine bar kits, tank pad, sump guard, fork protectors, radiator guard and for off-road, a headlight guard kit. The Trekker and Expedition packs provide two distinct, tailored luggage options for extended touring or off-road adventures.

ON THE ROAD

Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “The Tiger 900 already has an excellent reputation as an award-winner and rally competitor, enjoying success against production motorcycles as well as purpose-built off-road machines. In fact, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro was used by World Enduro Champion Iván Cervantes, securing champion titles at the Baja Aragón Rally, 1000 Dunas Raid and Bassela Enduro in 2022.

 With such an impressive pedigree, we needed to set ourselves a high target to improve the new Tiger 900. We were focused on raising the game in the middleweight category all over again. As a result, we’ve delivered a significant step-up, with more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and an aggressive style and poise.”

USA Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $14,995 USD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $16,895 USD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $17,395 USD

 

Canadian Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $16,995 CAD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $19,295 CAD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $20,195 CAD

Orders can be placed now at Triumph dealers, with bikes available from early 2024.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Type Liquid Cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
Capacity 888 cc
Bore 3.07” (78.0 mm)
Stroke 2.43” (61.9 mm)
Compression 13.0:1
Maximum power 106.5 HP (108 PS)
(79.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm
Maximum torque 66.38 Lb-Ft (90 Nm) @ 6,850 rpm
Fuel system Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Exhaust Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system, side mounted stainless steel silencer
Final drive O-ring Chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slip and assist
Gearbox 6 speed

 

CHASSIS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Frame Tubular steel trellis main frame. Fabricated, bolt-on aluminum rear subframe
Swingarm Twin sided cast aluminum swingarm
Front wheel Cast aluminum, 19 x 2.5 in Spoked tubeless, 21 x 2.15 in
Rear wheel Cast aluminum, 17 x 4.25 in Spoked tubeless, 17 x 4.25 in
Front tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 100/90-19 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 90/90-21
Rear tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 150/70R17 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 150/70-R17
Front suspension Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) upside down forks, manual rebound and compression damping adjustment, 7.08” (180mm travel) Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD forks, manual preload, rebound and compression damping adjustment, 9.45” (240mm) travel
Rear suspension Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload and rebound damping adjustment

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

Marzocchi rear suspension unit, electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

Showa rear suspension unit, manually adjustable preload and rebound damping

9.05” (230mm) wheel travel

Front brakes Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo Stylema 4 piston Monobloc calipers. Radial front master cylinder, Optimized Cornering ABS
Rear brakes Single 10.03” (255mm) disc. Single piston sliding caliper. Optimized cornering ABS
Instruments Full-color 7” TFT instrument pack with My Triumph Connectivity System
         

 

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Length 90.74” (2305 mm) 90.74” (2317 mm)
Width (handlebars) 36.61” (930 mm) 36.81” (935 mm)
Height without mirrors Adjustable 55.51” (1410 mm) – 57.48” (1460 mm) Adjustable

57.16” (1452 mm) – 59.13” (1502 mm)

Seat height Adjustable 32.28” (820 mm) – 33.07” (840 mm) Adjustable 33.85” (860 mm) – 34.64 (880 mm)
Wheelbase 61.25 (1556 mm) 61.06 (1551 mm)
Rake 24.6° 24.4°
Trail TBC TBC
Wet weight 482.81 lbs (219 kg)  489.42 lbs (222 kg) 502.65 lbs (228 kg)
Fuel tank capacity 5.28 gal (20 litres)
         

 

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Fuel Consumption 60.4 mpg (4.7 litres / 100 km)
CO2 Figures 108 g/km
Standard EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

 

SERVICE

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Service interval 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first

 

Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1992 Norton NRS588

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was part of a small design and development team working on a new Wankel rotary engine- powered Norton, but actually it was 47 years ago! 

        The bike was to have an air-cooled Wankel twin-rotor engine and monocoque-style steel frame. By 1980 the bike was still not in production and I emigrated to the USA; 12 years later I read that a Wankel-powered Norton racer had won the Isle of Man Senior TT, the first time a Norton had won the race since 1961!

 

            “Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1992 Norton NRS588,” by Mick Ofield

 

            In 1982 Norton produced a batch of air-cooled rotary bikes for police use, followed up in 1987 by a run of regular street bikes. Norton hired Brian Crighton as service manager, and he quickly realized the rotary would have great potential as a race engine. Management was not convinced but eventually allowed Brian to work in his own time with a police bike test mule. The rest, as they say, is history—and historic. Read the details in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

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

PREVIEW  October 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

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

 

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2024 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Scheduled 6/30-7/6 In Du Quoin

America's premier amateur flat track competition will return to the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Illinois. Photo courtesy AMA.
America's premier amateur flat track competition will return to the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Illinois. Photo courtesy AMA.

2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Set For June 30-July 6

The week-long amateur competition returns to Du Quoin, Ill.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — America’s premier amateur flat track competition will return to Du Quoin, Ill., as the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will run from June 30-July 6 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.

The AMA will operate and promote the event, which is the only race in the United States where a rider can earn an AMA National No. 1 plate in amateur flat track racing.

“We’re pleased to announce the upcoming AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, and we’re grateful to Mission Foods for their continued commitment as our title sponsor for the third consecutive year,” AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant said. “We eagerly anticipate another exceptional week of racing and look forward to seeing the many outstanding competitors at this year’s event.”

The week-long amateur competition will bring together flat track’s budding stars, hosting multiple age groups across four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Half-Mile and Mile.

In addition to the many AMA National No. 1 plates that will be awarded at the conclusion of the event, the AMA will also crown winners of several special awards — including the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award, which is given to the most promising amateur rider that is set to make the jump to the professional ranks. Past winners of the Horizon Award include Chase Saathoff, Kody Kopp, Dallas Daniels, Briar Bauman, Jared Mees, Bryan Smith and Roger Lee Hayden.

The Bill Werner AMA Fast Brain Award — which is granted to the rider who shows ability both on the track and in the classroom — will also be awarded during the event.

The AMA will also recognize the Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and the Youth Racer of the Year at the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship.

More information on the 2024 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship can be found at https://americanmotorcyclist.com/flat-track-racing/. 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

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

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

WorldSBK: Pata Yamaha Prometeon Welcomes Rea Ahead Of Jerez Test

Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea (right) and his new Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea and his new Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Welcomes Jonathan Rea

Just 24 hours after the end of the 2023 season, six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea stepped into the Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK pit box for the first time to meet his #65 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK – featuring a special grey, white and carbon fibre winter test livery which hints at some of Yamaha’s historical colour schemes. 

Welcomed by his new crew and Yamaha’s engineers, Rea enjoyed a detailed riding position fitting in advance of one of the most highly-anticipated manufacturer changes in WorldSBK history. Tomorrow will be the first chance to see Rea and the #65 R1 WorldSBK on track, as two days of testing commence at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto.

 

Jonathan Rea and the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team focused on setting up the ergonomics on his new YZF-R1 Monday at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Jonathan Rea and the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team focused on setting up the ergonomics on his new YZF-R1 Monday at Jerez. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

 

Jonathan Rea: Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“It’s been an incredible first day and it was so surreal putting on my Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK polo – the feeling in blue is really nice – and when I walked into the box, everyone was so enthusiastic. I felt a lot of love and support straight away – the attention to detail on the team is amazing. From even my rider office having personalised logos in there already, to getting perfectly fitted on the bike – the attention to detail on that process was incredible. I just can’t wait now to spin my first laps on the R1. It’s a bike that I’ve seen up close on track but never had an opportunity to ride, so for tomorrow the main idea is to get comfortable on the bike – to understand my crew, for them to understand me and of course, to learn and have a positive outcome. Between now and Phillip Island we have a lot of time, but first impressions are always important and today was a really good one. I’m really excited to start and I want to thank everyone from Crescent Racing, Yamaha Motor Europe and all the sponsors for this opportunity because I think it’s going to be a great partnership and I’m looking forward to it.”

 

Paul Denning: Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“We witnessed one of the most exciting race performances ever in WorldSBK yesterday afternoon, and here we are only 24 hours later looking forward to a surreal moment. Back in the day, I honestly never dreamed we would get a rider of Jonathan Rea’s stature to join our team and to see him climbing on the R1 today with a huge smile on his face has created an incredibly enthusiastic atmosphere and a lot of hope for the 2024 season. The next two days will be extremely interesting, but we want to start in a very step-by-step way without any pressure. The plan is to allow Jonathan to learn the R1 after so many years on a different bike and to treat this as the “first touch”, the first experience together and build from here. “JR” is a rider that history has shown will always deliver the goods, and we can’t wait to start this journey together.”

WorldSBK: Lowes Gets New Crew Chief At Kawasaki

Winter Test Marks New Start Towards 2024 For KRT

Just days after the end of the 2023 WorldSBK Championship at the Jerez circuit in Spain intense preparations for a new look 2024 season will begin for the official Kawasaki Racing Team, between 31 October to 1 November.

The 2024 rider line up will consist of long-time colleague Alex Lowes, now joined by new signing Axel Bassani.
 

Alex is a proven race winner and podium finisher about to enter his fifth season as a KRT rider, while Axel has been the Independent Teams’ Rider Champion for the past two seasons. The 2024 season will be Axel’s first year inside an official WorldSBK team set-up.
 

KRT’s tradition of unveiling a special winter test livery will continue at this test, with the unique off-season team branding to be used in all tests before the start of the 2024 season itself.
 

With a new KRT riding line up and a wide-ranging set of new technical rules to be met in 2024, KRT has been planning the shape and scale of the 2024 team for some time. The new personnel structure will work together for the first time at the forthcoming Jerez test, as will some of the technical modifications required to suit the new regulations covering combined bike and rider weight, crankshaft and balance shaft mass, fuel load restrictions, RPM limits and more.

 

(From left) Alex Lowes' new Crew Chief Pere Riba, rider Alex Lowes, Kawasaki Team Manager Guim Roda, rider Axel Bassani, and Bassani's Crew Chief Marcel Duinker. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
(From left) Alex Lowes’ new Crew Chief Pere Riba, rider Alex Lowes, Kawasaki Team Manager Guim Roda, rider Axel Bassani, and Bassani’s Crew Chief Marcel Duinker. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

 
For 2024 Alex will have Pere Riba as his crew chief, while Axel will work with long time KRT crew chief Marcel Duinker. Other internal changes are also ongoing to meet the challenge of what all expect to be an exciting immediate future, full of new ambitions and opportunities.
 
For the riders this test is an important one for many reasons, if in a slightly different way, given their contrasting experiences of the Ninja ZX-10RR to date.
 
Alex will be building on all the info he has acquired so far and is determined to set the scene to achieve race wins in 2024.
 
Axel will obviously require time to get used to his new environment, team and machine. He is understandably super-excited about his new opportunity but will arrive with a professional approach to make as much progress as quickly as possible.
 

Alex Lowes, stated: “We are already focused on 2024. We know the areas we want to improve with our package so now we must work hard to get the data we need to step forward in those areas. We’re changing some of the staff in the garage so I’m excited to get to work on the new relationships, with the target being to bring out more of our potential next year.”
 

Axel Bassani, stated: “I am happy to start with this new adventure with Kawasaki. It is like a dream for me because it is a really good team with a lot of history. It is important for me to start with a relaxed mood, try to understand the bike, my new team and after we will see what happens.”
 

Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We have finished an era, nine years together with Johnny and now we start a new chapter together with Alex. In the beginning there will be some differences because they are two different human beings, riders, characters, so for sure I will need my time to understand to match together with Alex. But I am motivated with this new challenge. We know Alex has good speed and then I will try my best together with my guys to get the best from him and improve the package. He knows the bike and the team and I will try to focus more on himself and get the best from him. Now we start the winter tests and the target for these two days is know each other, step-by-step to build the package.”
 

Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Axel Bassani, stated: “It is a shame in some ways how  the season finished because Alex was very competitive. It was a pleasure working with him all these years and we have a good relationship. Even though he has moved I am sure this good relationship will remain. Now we start a new chapter with Axel. I met him for the first time the other day and instantly we had a good conversation. He is young but he is already experienced, very competitive and incredibly motivated.  I am sure he will help lift us in KRT to an even higher level. At this test we will go one step at a time but I am already excited to start the 2024 season.”
 

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “We start new season with a big motivation to learn from our past experience and with the aim to keep improving our Ninja ZX-10RR package in a variety of ways. We have been working hard with FIM, Dorna and MSMA to balance a bit more the show for the fans. Our actual package still has potential to work better, but the rules need to allow us to flex more within what are strict Stock Rules and be more “racing spirit” oriented. Let’s see if new rules give us a measure of this help. That will not be the only change required, and we will need to work on the right way to implement any changes but it is the correct direction. Also we are making some changes internally at KRT and the most obvious will be Alex working with Pere Riba, while Marcel Duinker will have the task to build the speed and understanding of Axel on our Ninja ZX-10RR. Additionally, Pau, one of mechanics of Alex, is moving to work with Arturo, while Uri is leaving to follow Johnny on his blue adventure. Mattia will be moved up again to the first line and more changes will be introduced in the team for next season all aimed at staying competitive with the strong expectation of machine innovations from other manufacturers – nothing stands still in WorldSBK. We all are so motivated, and changes like this are always good, to try new things, so let’s go for it, and defend green colours in 2024 even stronger and prouder than ever.”
 

                                                #KRTNewStart2024

WorldSBK: Cremona Circuit To Host Series For Next Five Years

The Cremona Circuit near Milan, Italy, will host the Superbike World Championship for the next five years, pending homologation approval. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The Cremona Circuit near Milan, Italy, will host the Superbike World Championship this coming weekend. Photo courtesy Dorna.

WorldSBK welcomes Cremona Circuit as new venue for 2024

Round 10 of the 2024 World Championship will feature racing across three series: WorldSBK, WorldSSP, and the FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship. A five-year contract was signed between the Lombard circuit and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), which secures their place in the Championship from 2024 to 2028. It was designed by Jarno Zaffelli’s Studio Dromo, which has a reputation for its work on prominent racetracks.
 
Located just south of Milan, Cremona Circuit is now set to undergo the homologation process and is actively preparing for this significant event by implementing several important modifications and improvements, including:
 

Track Layout Enhancements: Changes to the layout of the track, with a notable focus on turns #11, #12, and #13.
 

High-Quality Resurfacing: Refurbishing specific areas of the track with quality materials to enhance the track’s condition.
 

Track Length Extension: An extension of approximately 90 meters to the track’s length to enrich racing dynamics.
 

Spectator Facilities Expansion: Construction of new grandstands and public areas to accommodate the ever-growing WorldSBK fan base.
 

Modern Race Direction Facilities: The addition of a contemporary structure to house offices for Race Direction and support staff to manage the entirety of the event effectively.

 

The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director:

“WorldSBK is thrilled to introduce Cremona Circuit to the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The addition of Cremona to our calendar marks a significant milestone and we’re fully committed to delivering top-quality racing experiences to our fans. This five-year agreement stands as a clear testament to that unwavering dedication as we’re looking forward propelling this venue onto the global scene.”
 

Alessandro Canevarolo, Cremona Circuit CEO:

“We are really happy, excited and hyped for this new great challenge. It will be an opportunity to take an extra, important step to grow, and with great satisfaction bring back the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship to Lombardy, missing for ten long years. After some negotiations, we immediately got to work to make the necessary changes for hosting this major event. Together with the management, the goal is to create an event that can showcase the area, the region and represent Italy in all its values. The goal has been clear ever since I started this adventure eight years ago. We started from afar, facing every moment with great spirit, passion, and dedication. Only in this way were we able to fulfil the big dream: seeing the Superbike World Championship race on the asphalt of our Cremona Circuit.”

Honda CR Electric Prototype Makes Successful Race Debut In Japan

Trey Canard (41) in action on the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard (41) in action on the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

Honda CR Electric Proto Shows Leading Pace in Valuable Debut Weekend

Team HRC completes a successful competitive debut for the CR Electric Proto

 

Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

 

SAITAMA, Japan – After a successful qualifying run yesterday, Sunday’s race day brought mixed fortunes for Team HRC but a race-leading demonstration of pace of the new CR Electric Proto at round 8 of the All Japan Motocross Championship.

In the morning’s practice, Team Honda HRC advisor and test rider Trey Canard—racing as a wildcard entry—followed on seamlessly from his Saturday pace to go second-fastest on the all-electric #41, making its global competitive debut this weekend in the premier IA1 class against 450cc gas-powered machinery.

Then came the first-ever race for Honda’s new prototype machine, in the form of the first moto. The opening race was smooth, with Canard starting strongly, settling into a rhythm and crossing the line second aboard the CR Electric Proto. As learning, development and ultimately the pace continued to improve throughout the weekend, Canard closed to just 0.7 seconds off the fastest lap and was looking fast.

In the second moto, Canard again started well and looked to be set to keep building on the weekend’s momentum, but an early crash with moto 1 rival Jay Wilson unfortunately put him out of the race.

Returning for the third moto, Canard made best use of the Honda’s instant electric torque and again started strongly, taking the lead exiting the first corner. In fact, Canard took two of the three holeshots on CR Electric Proto.

Starting to stretch that lead from his weekend-long rival, the #27 of Wilson, it would have been the perfect culmination of the weekend’s learning and work on the CR Electric Proto to take the machine’s first win in its first-ever competitive weekend—but unfortunately, as the track continued to get ever more rutted, Canard crashed with 12 and a half minutes remaining of the 15-minute race.

Nonetheless, with the opportunity provided by racing to learn, develop and prove the prototype machine in the heat of battle for the first time, it has been a successful and encouraging debut for the CR Electric Proto—a weekend that has provided valuable data for ongoing development of Honda’s all-electric motocross initiative.

 

Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

 

Trey Canard

“This weekend was definitely a big challenge for me, but it was a great race for our development. Each time I was on the track, we improved the motorcycle and the CR Electric Proto team adapted to the challenge. We had some shines of brilliance as a team, the starts being one of them, with two of the three holeshots. There were also some sections on the track that were very impressive, and that makes me excited for the future of this motorcycle. I’m disappointed to not finish all of the motos after all of the hard work the team has put in, but I think we showed that the potential of the bike is quite high, especially for our very first attempt at racing. I’m grateful to be a part of this effort, and I’m very proud of each and every person who has worked so hard.”

Taichi Honda: Team HRC Team Manager

“First of all, I would like to thank the development team and everyone involved for preparing the CR Electric Proto to be ready for competition in such a short time. I would also like to thank Trey Canard for showing his potential, even though he has only had a few tests. We had three heats for the first time today, and we will take what we learned from each race and feed it back to the ongoing development of the CR Electric project.”

Video: Pata Yamaha Thanks Toprak Razgatlioglu For His Service

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) catching air during Day Two of WorldSBK testing Wednesday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) catching air during testing at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna.

For All the Great Things You Gave Us. Thank you, Toprak

The final race weekend of the 2023 season was an emotional one for Yamaha as they acknowledged the parting of Toprak Razgatlıoğlu with several special nods to the title winning Turk – including a farewell video which has been released to sum up the best moments shared and sentiments felt.

The 27-year-old has taken 131 race starts with Yamaha in WorldSBK since 2020 and in this time he has achieved a remarkable 100 podiums, 37 wins and 12 pole positions with the brand, as well as a superb World Championship crown in 2021. Toprak not only brought success, celebrations and a supreme riding style to the blue corner, but his unique personality, humour and showmanship too. Naturally, all those who worked with him have fond and funny memories of their time with the #54 rider.

These were revealed in special interviews carried out with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team and key figures from Yamaha Racing ahead of the final round, and they made for interesting viewing with a wide range of, sometimes surprising, answers.

 

 

“I’ll never forget it, in 2021 we were in Indonesia and we spent so much time talking about the championship, it was amazing. He was really excited and we were eating a pizza and French fries together and it was really fun, especially because he then became champion.” – Andrea Locatelli, team-mate

“All the way back to the start, our first race together. He was sick with the ‘flu, he was struggling, but Kenan Sofuoğlu (Toprak’s Manager) told us that he could win the race. That’s exactly what he did. From that moment everything moved forward. But the wider picture is what I’ll remember most; the rider he became with us and the friendships made that I hope will last long term.” – Paul Denning, Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“The first stoppie I saw him do was just massive, I was standing in pitlane thinking ‘what is this?’ There’s been lots of fun along the way. Winning the title was unbelievable, a total dream come true. He made that happen, it was really emotional.” – Russ Joyner, Chief Mechanic

“Standing on the podium with him after his first victory with Yamaha is a memory that will stay in my heart forever.” – Andrea Dosoli, Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager

When asked to describe Toprak in one word the simple yet powerful answers were testament to the talent and determination he’s shown during the past four seasons with Yamaha…

“Extraordinary”

“Incomparable”

“Relentless”

“Magic”

“Outstanding”

For the victories, the joys, the humour and the humility. For everything you gave us. Thank you, Toprak.

WorldSBK: Race Two Results From Jerez

Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto, in Spain. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto, in Spain. Photo courtesy Dorna.
WSBK R2
WSBK Points after R2 FINAL

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Drama in Jerez: Bautista claims victory as Razgatlioglu is penalised in WorldSBK Season Finale

 

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.

In an unforgettable showdown, the top two contenders for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship engaged in a fierce duel at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured the win, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) initially crossing the finish line first but was promptly docked one position for stepping outside the track limits. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), aiming for a high note farewell with Kawasaki, was in the lead before an unfortunate crash on Lap 5.

In a day of highs for Yamaha, Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) achieved his second career podium, capping off a brilliant season for the GYTR GRT Yamaha team as his team mate Remy Gardner took fourth place. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) emerged as the top Independent rider in fifth position. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured sixth place, securing fifth overall in the Championship standings.

Bautista’s win at Jerez concluded his exceptional season, marked by consistent victories and his second World Championship title.

 

Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“For sure it’s been a really good season. It wasn’t perfect because of course we made mistakes but it’s the best way to finish the season so far here in Jerez winning three races. Especially in Race 2, the battle was amazing. With Toprak we did a lot of overtakes, all were very special and agressive but at the same time we were correct between us. For sure, I enjoyed a lot this race, even more than the one of Portimao because here I had nothing to lose. The support here with the Spanish fans was incredible. I was so happy to end the season here.”

Razgatlioglu took second place, finishing runner-up in the Championship and leaving Yamaha with numerous remarkable performances.

 

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) finished sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) got sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P2 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“I passed the chequered flag in P1, this is good for me. I touched the green for track limits, but I didn’t understand as I felt the bike sliding. Maybe, after sliding, I touched it. I didn’t gain an advantage, but rules are rules. For my last day with Yamaha, I just tried to finish in a good position. I needed to try to have good memories of my last race and winning with Yamaha. I’m a little bit sad, but I did a very good job. I gave more than 100% just like at Portimao; I am really fighting with him. I needed some luck because, in the last two races, I didn’t have luck. I’m sad but generally happy for my last race with Yamaha, because everybody could see I gave more than 100%.”

Rea’s season ended on a bittersweet note as he aimed for a high farewell with Kawasaki but suffered an unfortunate crash at Jerez.

 

Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P17 | Jonathan Rea | Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK

“Strange feelings overall to be honest, not from a performance or results side but because I’m leaving an incredible team. My last day in green and that’s what is strange. Obviously, not the result I wanted to finish off with for my team, they deserved a lot better. What we did prove was that the Ninja ZX-10RR still has potential and up until that point of the race, I felt quite in control with a really good rhythm. There were times when I was like ‘ooof, I’ve got a magic tyre’! The bike was hooking up well and going forwards. Pere made a bold decision to make an incredible change, something quite big on the bike that we wanted to try. We didn’t go down without a fight and it was really frustrating to lose the front. Potentially, I could have just gave up the corner a bit, I was a bit fast on entry but I tried to pull it down and with too much lean angle, I was down.

I wanted to finish the race as it would be too easy to pull in. My footpeg had broken off and my handlebar bent forward but I was still able to lap in the 1’41s. It makes me even more disappointed with what could’ve been but that was our race. It sums up the highs and lows we’ve had this year; some incredible highs but difficult moments but it can’t darken the moments I’ve had at KRT. It’s been a whirlwind journey and something I’ll never forget.”