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Motorcycle Industry Council Board Elects New Officers

NEW BOARD OFFICERS ELECTED TO LEAD MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY COUNCIL

DEREK BROOKS OF YAMAHA, JOHN HINZ OF KTM TO SERVE AS CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR

IRVINE, Calif. – The Motorcycle Industry Council Board of Directors elected new officers to lead the powersports industry in 2023. Derek Brooks, motorcycle product line manager, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., was appointed chair; John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America, Inc., was appointed vice chair; and Jim Woodruff, CEO of National Powersport Auctions, will remain secretary and treasurer. MIC also welcomes new board members Bill Savino, senior manager of sales support for American Honda Motor Co., Inc., replacing Chuck Boderman, who retired this year; and Eric Sievers, director, sales planning and analysis at Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, replacing Bill Jenkins, who also retired this year.

“It’s a great honor to be elected chair of MIC,” Brooks said. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen encouraging growth in our industry, no doubt spurred by the pandemic as people looked for new ways to recreate. We need to continue nurturing these new and returning riders, keeping them excited and engaged so they can pass their love and enthusiasm on to friends and family. This means I will be keenly focused on policy and market issues facing our industry, including ensuring motorized two-wheelers have a voice in transportation plans, and that riders have access to OHV spaces. I also want to thank out-going Chair Chuck Boderman for his leadership and his unwavering support of the powersports industry and for MIC as its industry association.”

“This is truly a time of opportunity,” said Hinz. “MIC’s market expansion effort, Ride With Us, has shown great results, inspiring more people to consider motorcycling on the dirt or on the street. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting MIC as we find more ways to open the doors to motorcycling to even more people.”

“Together, we have done a remarkable job navigating the past few years, which were filled with unprecedented obstacles and surprises,” said Woodruff. “While our industry, like all others, will continue to face challenges, we are well-positioned at the MIC to serve the needs of our powersports industry —manufacturers, aftermarket, dealers, services, and of course, our riders and customers. I look forward to continuing my role as Secretary/Treasurer.”

The MIC Board of Directors includes representation from across powersports. Serving the 2023 term are:

Chair of the Board: Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.

Vice Chair: John Hinz, KTM North America, Inc.

Secretary/Treasurer: Jim Woodruff, National Powersport Auctions

Directors

Jeff Brown, EagleRider

Tim Calhoun, Tim Calhoun Powersports Consulting

Kerry Graeber, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC

Robin Hartfiel, Dealernews

Erik Larson, Piaggio Group Americas

Joey Lindahl, Polaris, Inc.

Rod Lopusnak, Triumph Motorcycles America

Marc McAllister, Tucker Powersports

Shawn McLean, BMW Motorrad USA

Jeff Proctor, BRP, Inc.

Bill Savino, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.*

Eric Sievers, Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA*

*=New board member
 

ABOUT THE MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY COUNCIL

The Motorcycle Industry Council, under its marquee market expansion brand, Ride With Us, is working to introduce everyone to the incomparable thrill of riding a motorcycle. The MIC is a not-for-profit trade association representing motorcycle manufacturers, distributors, aftermarket companies, dealers, retailers, and a variety of related organizations providing vital support to the powersports industry. The MIC advocates for fair policy and regulatory environments, works to deliver valuable data to the industry, and strives to bring the joy of riding to everyone, everywhere.

Established in 1914, the MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. Keep up with the industry association on Twitter @followMIC, online at MIC.org, and through the weekly MIC RideReport.

MotoGP: Can Quartararo Make It Three In A Row In Portugal?

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP POISED FOR 2023 MOTOGP SEASON START IN PORTUGAL

Portimao (Portugal), 22nd March 2023

Following the Portimao MotoGP Official Test almost a fortnight ago, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli have travelled back to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve to kick off the 2023 MotoGP season this weekend with the Grande Prémio de Portugal.

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are eagerly awaiting the start of the new MotoGP season, which for the first time is staged at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli are looking forward to experiencing the new MotoGP race weekend format (including a Sprint on the Saturday) and give it their all to start the season off on the right foot.

Following an overall successful Portimao MotoGP Official Test, held almost two weeks ago, Quartararo is eagerly looking forward to riding his YZR-M1 at the Algarve track again. The combination of El Diablo and his Yamaha have proved to be a winning formula at this circuit in 2021 and 2022, making the Frenchman enter the 2023 Portuguese GP as one of the fan favourites.

Morbidelli, like many riders, has taken a liking to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve and its rather special lay-out. The elevation changes require a perfect setting and skilled riding. The Italian showed his potential at the very first MotoGP race in Portimao in 2020 by securing third place, and he finished in fourth place at the Portuguese GP in 2021. The Italian is keen to fight for the podium again this year.

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve – better known as Portimao (after the port city from which it is half an hour‘s drive removed) – is situated in the Algarve region of Portugal. The circuit was opened in 2008 and added to the MotoGP calendar in 2020. It‘s a big hit with the riders but also especially with the fans, who can’t get enough of their heroes taking on this track that is famous for its elevation changes. The circuit has 15 corners – nine right, six left – and the front straight will allow the MotoGP riders to really stretch the legs of their machines before a unique downhill descent into Turn 1.

Those who want to refresh their memories of what the Algarve circuit looks like, can watch the on-board helmet-cam lap by MotoGP eSport star Lorenzo Daretti.

As Daylight Saving Time commences this Sunday, the Grande Prémio de Portugal time schedule is in the GMT +0 time zone for Friday and Saturday, and in GMT +1 for Sunday. With the addition of Sprints in 2023, this weekend‘s MotoGP timetable (in local track time) looks as follows:

Friday

Practice 1: 10:45 – 11:30 (GMT +0)

Practice 2: 15:00 – 16:00 (GMT +0)

 

Saturday

Free Practice: 10:10 – 10:40 (GMT +0)

Qualifying 1: 10:50 – 11:05 (GMT +0)

Qualifying 2: 11:15 – 11:30 (GMT +0)

Sprint: 15:00 (GMT +0)

 

Sunday

Warm Up: 09:45 – 09:55 (GMT +1)

Race: 14:00 (GMT +1)

 

MASSIMO MEREGALLI

TEAM DIRECTOR

The first GP is always exciting because it‘s back to school for everyone. However, this time it‘s even more interesting because we have a new GP format. This will be the first time we get to do a Sprint, so that is something we look forward to. It‘s also the first time that we open the MotoGP season in Portugal. This is a good circuit for us, as shown by Fabio‘s two Portimao race wins in a row. We ended the test here almost two weeks ago on a positive note. It‘s important that we keep working in the right direction this weekend and set the right tone for the season. Like the fans, we can‘t wait any longer to watch some MotoGP racing!

FABIO QUARTARARO

We are finally starting the 2023 season, and I’m looking forward to this. The Portimao Test two weeks ago ended on a positive note, so we‘re heading into this weekend with confidence. We have an idea of what we would like to work on during the Friday session in preparation for our first ever Sprint on the Saturday. It’s been a long time since the last race, so I‘m sure the fans are very impatient to see us back in action. I look forward to seeing them at the track.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Over the long winter break, Yamaha prepared a lot of items for us to test. We tried a lot of things and gathered as much data as possible. This last week, after the Official Portimao Test, the data has been analysed, and the team is ready to go. The atmosphere in the team is always nice, but there is extra excitement in the air now because we are starting the new season. It‘s a clean slate, anything is possible, and we will give it our best shot.

Isle Of Man TT: Johnston Riding Ex-Factory Honda Superbike

HONDA SUPERBIKE SWITCH FOR JOHNSTON AT TT 2023

After a frustrating TT in 2022, Ashcourt Racing’s Lee Johnston is hoping that a switch from BMW to Honda machinery for the 1000cc classes will galvanize his efforts at the 2023 Isle of Man TT Races.

Johnston and the team have purchased ex-Glenn Irwin CBR1000RR-RR Fireblades from the official Honda Racing outfit, and is set to campaign the bikes in the RST Superbike, RL360 and Milwaukee Senior races later this year

Winner of the opening Supersport race in 2019, Johnston is hoping the switch to the Fireblade will elevate him further up the leaderboard in the big bike races and complement his challenge in the Monster Energy Supersport and Bennetts Supertwin Races where he’ll again be amongst the favourites for honours.

“We had a bit of trouble with the big bikes last year, electrical issues and the like, which was a real shame as I was running in the top four in both the Superbike and Superstock Races,” explained Johnston. “Being that high up only to run into problems was very frustrating.”

“You only have to look around the paddock at both the roads and the short circuits to see that the Honda Fireblade is favoured by a lot of riders, and quite a few guys have been going well on it lately. That tells me the bike has a good base chassis and it’s a good package all round so it’s worth trying at this year’s TT.”

That feeling has been confirmed for Johnston in recent tests at the Spanish circuits of Monteblanco and Andalucia.

“It’s changed massively since I last rode a Honda in 2018. The newer model feels really nice and smooth,” he explained. “It feels small too, and the fact it’s nice and compact gives a small rider like myself a lot of confidence straightaway. I felt really comfortable on it.”

Although considered more of a small bike rider, Johnston’s first ever TT podium came in the Superstock class when he finished third behind Ian Hutchinson and Michael Dunlop in 2015, and he’s determined to get good results on the Fireblade this time around:

“It was quite funny being on a Superstock podium alongside Hutchy and Michael, but I want to give it a real good go on the big bikes this year especially as things were going well last year before I hit trouble. I was able to lap at 130mph from a standing start and whilst there’s a couple of mph to be found for it to happen, I’d love to be on a big bike podium again.”

“That’s not going to be easy when you see the likes of Michael finishing off the podium in a Senior Race, like he did last year. That shows you how difficult it is to finish on a Superbike podium but the more mileage we do, the better chance we’ll have.”

It’s highly likely Johnston will contest some early season British Superstock Championship rounds, along with the British Supersport Championship on his familiar Yamaha YZF-R6.

Johnston will also compete in the two Bennetts Supertwin Races and is hopeful of being more competitive this year on his Aprilia RS660:

“We finished second in last year’s race but didn’t really deserve the podium, so we’ve been developing the bike over the winter to get some more power out of it. I want to be competitive and be genuinely ‘in’ the race this time around so as to bridge the gap to the front runners.”

“I’m not sure if the Paton’s that Peter [Hickman] and Michael rode last year will be in the race, but you’ve got to do 120mph to win the race no matter what you’re riding so that’ll be the aim.”

Estrella Galicia 0,0 Named Official Beer Partner Of MotoGP

Estrella Galicia 0,0 becomes the Global Official Beer Partner of MotoGP™

The Spanish beer brand joins forces with the world’s biggest motorcycle World Championship as Official Beer in a new, multi-year partnership

Wednesday, 22 March 2023

Estrella Galicia 0,0 and Dorna Sports are delighted to announce a new partnership, with a multi-year agreement welcoming the iconic beer brand as the Official Beer of MotoGP™ from 2023. As Official Beer, the Estrella Galicia 0,0 name will become omnipresent in MotoGP™, reaching hundreds of millions of fans around the world as the sport embarks on the first blockbuster season of a new era.

Estrella Galicia 0,0 is a Spanish brand of beer produced by Hijos de Rivera, located in A Coruña, Galicia. Founded in 1906, for more than a century the company has developed some of the world’s most recognisable beers, with a presence in more than 60 countries. Estrella Galicia 0,0 already enjoys a considerable presence in motorsport, including some partnerships in the MotoGP™ paddock, making Estrella Galicia 0,0 the perfect choice for the Official Beer of MotoGP™.

Estrella Galicia 0,0 has already become well known for its contribution to motorcycle racing talent since 2011, and has supported riders from their very first professional racing experience in the European Talent Cup and JuniorGP™ to the premier class of Grand Prix motorcycle racing: MotoGP™. With support for different MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ teams and riders stretching back more than a decade, Estrella Galicia 0,0 has been part of 12 World Championships and over one hundred Grand Prix wins thanks to great champions like Marc Marquez, Joan Mir, Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli.

More than half of the 22 riders on the MotoGP™ grid have been supported by Estrella Galicia 0,0 at some time in their racing careers. Estrella Galicia 0,0 becoming the Official Beer of MotoGP™ is a natural step forward in the relationship between both parties, as they share the same spirit in the pursuit of excellence.

The iconic Estrella Galicia 0,0 brand will enjoy a worldwide presence thanks to MotoGP™ broadcasts – and fans in the stands – with trackside advertising across much of the calendar in the first year of this new partnership, to be increased to a higher number of venues in subsequent seasons.

On top of all the commercial benefits at different racetracks across the record-breaking 2023 calendar, including a dedicated brand space in the paddock for sharing the culture and DNA of the family-owned independent Spanish brewery, this agreement also puts special focus on developing joint initiatives within the MotoGP™ community, working together towards a more sustainable entertainment model to put positive impact at the top of the agenda.

In addition, Estrella Galicia 0,0 will also be present in  the MotoGP VIP Village™, ensuring the brand enjoys a key presence in the corporate hospitality programme of MotoGP™.

The announced agreement also includes a digital package, ensuring the new Official Beer of MotoGP™ reaches every facet of the sport’s global audience: the paddock, the grandstands, online platforms, and television broadcast – reaching hundreds of millions of fans.

Ignacio Rivera, CEO of Corporación Hijos de Rivera (Estrella Galicia 0,0): “Motorcycling racing is one of the projects that has given us the most reasons for celebrations with Estrella Galicia 0,0 in recent years. Encouraging the development of the talent of riders has been and continues to be our raison d’être since we entered the paddock in 2011 and, after a decade of enjoying their success, we are delighted to be able to go one step further and become the official beer of the MotoGP World Championship at a global level, something which is undoubtedly a milestone for our company. We are not only united by our values of excellence and innovation, but also by a non-conformist nature that drives us to set challenges to work together with the whole community, progressively embedding positive impact as part of the MotoGP agenda.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “We’re delighted to welcome Estrella Galicia as the Official Beer of MotoGP. A global brand with a rich history in motorsport makes for a perfect partner for the world’s biggest motorcycle racing Championship. We’re very much looking forward to seeing the Estrella Galicia 0,0 name at the track and across our broadcasts, as well as welcoming their initiatives in the paddock and MotoGP VIP Village as we build on this strong partnership in the coming years.”

Pirelli Announces Consumer Rebate Program

Pirelli Announces Spring Consumer Rebate Program

Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires Through April 30, 2023

ATLANTA – Pirelli Tire North America has announced a consumer rebate program for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Pirelli tires through their local participating dealerships and select online retailers. This all-new program allows consumers within the United States to take advantage of as much as $25 USD rebate per tire or $60 USD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.

“With the riding season quickly approaching, Pirelli is excited to roll out a new consumer rebate program,” said Josh Whitmire, BU Moto – Director of Sales, Pirelli. “This limited-time offer will be available through local Pirelli dealerships and online Pirelli retailers. We are proud to include Pirelli products across various segments, offering an excellent opportunity for existing and new Pirelli riders to experience first-hand the high performance of Pirelli products.”

Eligible Pirelli street tires will receive a $25 USD per tire rebate or $60 USD rebate per set and include the Diablo™ Supercorsa SP V3, Diablo Rosso™ IV Corsa, Diablo Rosso™ IV, Angel™ GT II, Angel™ GT, Night Dragon™, Night Dragon™ GT, Scorpion™ Trail II, MT 60™, MT 60™ RS, Scorpion™ Rally STR, Scorpion™ MT 90 A/T, Phantom™ Sportscomp, and Sport Demon™.

For off-road, eligible tires will offer a $30 USD rebate per set and include the Scorpion™ MX Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Hard, Scorpion™ XC Mid Soft, Scorpion™ XC Mid Hard, MT 43™ Pro Trial, MT 16™ Garacross, and Scorpion™ Rally.

This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and April 30, 2023, and only for legal residents of the United States. After purchasing a set of qualifying Pirelli tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out an online claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital pre-paid VISA card.

For official terms and conditions, click here.

To learn more about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires and find a dealer, click here.

MotoGP: Bagnaia Says He Likes 2023 Ducati Better Than 2022 Bike

​​​​​​​The Ducati Lenovo Team is ready to hit the track in Portimão, Portugal, for the opening Grand Prix of the 2023 MotoGP season

The Ducati Lenovo Team is ready to officially kick off the new MotoGP season. From 24th-26th March, the Bologna-based squad will be at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, Portugal, to contest the first of 21 Grands Prix scheduled on the calendar this year.

Stage a few weeks ago of the last preseason test, the Portuguese track will host the opening round of the World Championship for the first time and will also be the circuit on which the MotoGP riders will face their first sprint race. Starting this year, the program of each event will be enriched by an additional race on Saturday, which will award about half the points and have a shorter distance compared to Sunday’s primary race. In addition to the sprint race, riders will also have to face two new tracks this year: Kazakhstan in July and India, which will host the World Championship in September.

Reigning World Champion Francesco Bagnaia is ready to tackle the new season to defend the number 1 on the front fairing of his Desmosedici GP. The rider from Chivasso was a great protagonist of the last test in Portimão, as he finished on top with a fastest time  757 thousandths faster than the current circuit record. Enea Bastianiani is also ready to make his debut as an official Ducati Lenovo Team rider, off the back of the good feelings he had with his Desmosedici GP during the last preseason test.

Francesco Bagnaia (#1, Ducati Lenovo Team)

“Finally, we are starting again, and I am really excited! The winter tests went well, and in some aspects, I like the Desmosedici GP 23 better than last year’s bike. There are all the conditions to be able to start this new season well: Portimão is a track that I like and where in general, I am fast. In any case, we have to stay focused because the competitiveness will definitely be very high. We will have to work at our best right from the start: this will be the first GP in which we will contest the sprint race, so we will have to get used to approaching the weekend in a different way. I’m ready and looking forward to getting on track to kick off the 2023 World Championship officially!”

Enea Bastianini (#23, Ducati Lenovo Team)

“I am happy to finally be back on track for the first GP of the season. It will be my first race as an official rider, and so it will be even more exciting. The last test here in Portimão went well, and we already have a good base to start our weekend’s work. Many riders have shown that they are competitive, so we will also have to be among the frontrunners right away, but I am confident that we have all the means to do so. I can’t wait to get back to work with my team!”

The Ducati Lenovo Team riders will take to the track for the first free practice session of the Portuguese GP on Friday, 24th March, at 10:45am local time (CET -1.00).

R.I.P. Longtime Race Mechanic Eric Gray

Longtime race mechanic and former racer Eric Gray was found dead today in his home in Cache, Oklahoma. He was believed to be 60 years old.

“I found him today,” said George Nassaney, owner of the Altus Motorsports dealerships and Altus Factory race team that Gray worked for as Race Team Manager. “Basically, he didn’t show up for work today. My son said something to me this morning, and I know how Eric is. He’ll text me if he’s going to be five minutes late. He’s just that type of guy.

“My gut kept saying there’s something wrong. So, I decided to drive to his house because I built his house several years back. It’s about a 45-minute drive. When I got down here he didn’t answer the door, so I started walking around the property, looked in a window, and saw him lying flat on his back in the living room.”

Nassaney then called the local police, who made entry into the home and confirmed that Gray was deceased and had been deceased for hours if not days. The time and cause of death, however, had not been determined at post time.

“I saw him Saturday afternoon at the close of business,” said Nassaney. “I told him I’d see him on Tuesday. Jaret [Nassaney, George Nassaney’s son and a racer for Altus Motorsports] texted him on Monday and he never texted him back, so he’s been gone for a day before this happened.

“We had just driven to Daytona in my personal pickup truck. We had a good trip down there, a good trip home, came back and started getting prepared for the rest of the season.

“He handled all the suspension for the motocross bikes and all the [road] race team stuff. And this year we made a change. We were going to have two crew chiefs with him on Jaret’s [Supersport] bike and [Brandon] Paasch’s [Stock 1000] bike, and Mike Castro as the Crew Chief for Alessandro Di Mario [Junior Cup] and Joe LiMandri’s [Twins Cup] bike. We’re going to race. Eric would want us to race. So, we’re going to have to find another person to come in and move forward.”

Altus Motorsports won the 2020 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Championships with Cameron Petersen and the 2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Championships with Jake Lewis and MotoAmerica Junior Cup races with Kayla Yaakov in 2022 under Gray’s leadership.

We will post more information as it becomes available.

Metzeler Launches 2023 Consumer Rebate Program

Metzeler Unveils 2023 Consumer Rebate Program

Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires for Residents of the United States

ATLANTA – Metzeler Moto North America unveils an all-new consumer rebate program for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Metzeler tires through their local participating dealership and select online retailers. Consumers within the United States can take advantage of as much as $25 USD rebate per tire or $60 USD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.

“Metzeler is thrilled to announce the consumer rebate program for 2023,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager, Metzeler. “One of our goals was to work alongside our participating dealers and make this program beneficial to various Metzeler riders, whether it be v-twin, sport, or off-road. Metzeler continues to set the industry standard, and we look forward to growing the brand across all segments again in 2023.”

Metzeler’s all-new consumer rebate program runs now through April 30, 2023.

A $25 USD per tire rebate or $60 USD rebate per set will be offered for the Metzeler Lasertec™, Enduro 3 Sahara, Racetec™ RR, Sportec™ M9 RR, Sportec™ M7 RR, Roadtec™ 01 SE, Roadtec™ 01, Roadtec™ Z8 Interact, Cruisetec™, ME 888 Marathon™ Ultra, Tourance™ Next, Tourance™ Next 2, Karoo™ Street, and Karoo™ 4. Additionally, the MCE 6 Days Extreme, MC360™ Mid Soft, and MC360™ Mid Hard are eligible for a $30 USD per set rebate.

This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and April 30, 2023, and only for legal residents of the United States. After purchasing a set of qualifying Metzeler tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out an online claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital pre-paid VISA card.

For official terms and conditions, click here.

To learn more about the complete line of Metzeler motorcycle tires and find a dealer, click here.

 

About METZELER

Metzeler has manufactured motorcycle tires since 1892 and our history goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development. Learn more at www.metzeler.com.

American Flat Track: Senoia Short Track Happening March 25 In Georgia

Short Wait to Get Back on Track at Inaugural Senoia Short Track

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 21, 2023) – The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season resumes just two weeks after its thrilling Bike Week double-opener with the inaugural Yamaha Senoia Short Track at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia, on Saturday, March 25.

All eyes will be on second-year Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle star Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who comes in with a perfect 50-point score after orchestrating back-to-back virtuoso rides at the DAYTONA Short Track I & II.

Daniels will have some additional motivation to keep his hot streak going at Yamaha’s home round, as will teammate JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT). Combined, the Estenson Racing pairing have collected the last three Short Track victories in succession (and four of the last six), dating back to last season.

The two figure to face stiff challenges from last year’s other ST winners, Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), and Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 890 Duke).

Speaking of Bauman, the two-time Mission SuperTwins champ’s initial outing aboard his new KTM 890 Duke was one of the opener’s biggest stories. He didn’t disappoint in his Rick Ware Racing debut, claiming a podium in his first attempt, despite losing his brakes early in the contest.

The overall KTM premier-class presence will be further bolstered at Senoia where Bauman and his brother, Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing/2 Wheelz KTM 890 Duke), will be joined by reigning Mission Production Twins champion Jesse Janisch (No. 33 KTM/Haversack/Z-Max 890 Duke), who will make his Wally Brown Racing debut this weekend.

Meanwhile, no one should ever overlook defending Mission SuperTwins king Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750). Mees had a bit of a quiet opener – at least by his standards – but he still managed to collect a pair of valuable fourths. And while he may not have won on a Short Track a year ago, he has taken multiple ST wins over his career and landed on the box in the close-quarters showdowns on more than one occasion in ‘22.

Along with Mees and the aforementioned Robinson, two other Indian-mounted pilots in Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) and Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) got their ‘23 campaigns off to impressive starts, the two finishing 2-3 behind Daniels the last time out.

Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) clearly demonstrated that he and his bike are capable of running up front with the best riders and equipment in the world in the opener. He and teammate Ryan Wells (No. 94 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) will look to follow up a promising opener with an even stronger performance on Saturday.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

A year ago, Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) kick-started his runaway Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER title triumph with six wins over the season’s opening nine races.

Therefore, it should be a serious concern for any prospective class title hopeful that Kopp is off to an even better beginning in ‘23, sweeping the first two rounds after going 1-2 to open ‘22.

While slowing Kopp is a daunting task, the field is loaded with hungry and skilled riders across several manufacturers.

Besides the defending champion, KTM is represented by with some of the category’s most decorated riders, headlined by the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F), and Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F).

The American Honda-backed Turner Honda effort has been a powerhouse since its earliest days, and ‘23 looks to be no different with the talented trio of Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R).

Yamaha, meanwhile, will see its home turf defended by the talented Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) and Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F).

And Husqvarna has a 1-2 punch of its own in James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450).

Along with joining the premier class in underlining the depth of manufacturer parity and diversity of Progressive AFT, the 2023 opener also showcased some riders who may be poised to step into the spotlight this season. Travis Petton IV (No. 82 ECG Racing/3 Bros KTM 450 SX-F), Justin Jones (No. 91 NRC Racing/Elder Trucking KTM 450 SX-F), and Andrew Luker (No. 11 Rackley Racing/Keeran Racing Yamaha YZ450F) all flashed eye-opening speed in Daytona, while rookies Logan Eisenhard (No. 166 Scotts Powersports/The Cycle Lab LLC KTM 450 SX-F) and Clark Morian (No. 133 Morian Racing/Wells Tuned KTM 450 SX-F) didn’t take long to prove they belonged.

This weekend’s action actually kicks off on Friday with some top-flight amateur racing at Senoia Raceway. The added value trend carries over into Saturday, when Progressive AFT will again welcome the inclusion of the Grand National Hooligan Championship on the evening’s bill.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained off the track as well, including numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, music, and extensive motorcycle parking.

General Admission tickets are just $40 (kids 12 and under just $5), while Reserved Grandstand tickets are $50 (all ages). Reserved Trackside Parking (add-on only) is also available for $60 per vehicle while Multi-Day Camping Passes (add-on only) are $75.

Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/yamaha-senoia-short-track-61409 to purchase your tickets today!

Gates will open for fans at 3:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT).

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv.

FOX Sports coverage, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 from the Yamaha Senoia Short Track on April 1 at 7:00 a.m. ET (4:00 a.m. PT).

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

About Progressive American Flat Track

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

Motorcycle Industry Council Board Elects New Officers

MIC Board members (from left) Erik Pritchard, Marc McAllister, Tim Calhoun, Shawn McLean, Rod Lopusnak, Bill Jenkins, John Hinz, Derek Brooks, Bill Savino, and Jim Woodruff. Photo courtesy Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC).
MIC Board members (from left) Erik Pritchard, Marc McAllister, Tim Calhoun, Shawn McLean, Rod Lopusnak, Bill Jenkins, John Hinz, Derek Brooks, Bill Savino, and Jim Woodruff. Photo courtesy Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC).

NEW BOARD OFFICERS ELECTED TO LEAD MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY COUNCIL

DEREK BROOKS OF YAMAHA, JOHN HINZ OF KTM TO SERVE AS CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR

IRVINE, Calif. – The Motorcycle Industry Council Board of Directors elected new officers to lead the powersports industry in 2023. Derek Brooks, motorcycle product line manager, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., was appointed chair; John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America, Inc., was appointed vice chair; and Jim Woodruff, CEO of National Powersport Auctions, will remain secretary and treasurer. MIC also welcomes new board members Bill Savino, senior manager of sales support for American Honda Motor Co., Inc., replacing Chuck Boderman, who retired this year; and Eric Sievers, director, sales planning and analysis at Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, replacing Bill Jenkins, who also retired this year.

“It’s a great honor to be elected chair of MIC,” Brooks said. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen encouraging growth in our industry, no doubt spurred by the pandemic as people looked for new ways to recreate. We need to continue nurturing these new and returning riders, keeping them excited and engaged so they can pass their love and enthusiasm on to friends and family. This means I will be keenly focused on policy and market issues facing our industry, including ensuring motorized two-wheelers have a voice in transportation plans, and that riders have access to OHV spaces. I also want to thank out-going Chair Chuck Boderman for his leadership and his unwavering support of the powersports industry and for MIC as its industry association.”

“This is truly a time of opportunity,” said Hinz. “MIC’s market expansion effort, Ride With Us, has shown great results, inspiring more people to consider motorcycling on the dirt or on the street. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting MIC as we find more ways to open the doors to motorcycling to even more people.”

“Together, we have done a remarkable job navigating the past few years, which were filled with unprecedented obstacles and surprises,” said Woodruff. “While our industry, like all others, will continue to face challenges, we are well-positioned at the MIC to serve the needs of our powersports industry —manufacturers, aftermarket, dealers, services, and of course, our riders and customers. I look forward to continuing my role as Secretary/Treasurer.”

The MIC Board of Directors includes representation from across powersports. Serving the 2023 term are:

Chair of the Board: Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.

Vice Chair: John Hinz, KTM North America, Inc.

Secretary/Treasurer: Jim Woodruff, National Powersport Auctions

Directors

Jeff Brown, EagleRider

Tim Calhoun, Tim Calhoun Powersports Consulting

Kerry Graeber, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC

Robin Hartfiel, Dealernews

Erik Larson, Piaggio Group Americas

Joey Lindahl, Polaris, Inc.

Rod Lopusnak, Triumph Motorcycles America

Marc McAllister, Tucker Powersports

Shawn McLean, BMW Motorrad USA

Jeff Proctor, BRP, Inc.

Bill Savino, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.*

Eric Sievers, Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA*

*=New board member
 

ABOUT THE MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY COUNCIL

The Motorcycle Industry Council, under its marquee market expansion brand, Ride With Us, is working to introduce everyone to the incomparable thrill of riding a motorcycle. The MIC is a not-for-profit trade association representing motorcycle manufacturers, distributors, aftermarket companies, dealers, retailers, and a variety of related organizations providing vital support to the powersports industry. The MIC advocates for fair policy and regulatory environments, works to deliver valuable data to the industry, and strives to bring the joy of riding to everyone, everywhere.

Established in 1914, the MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. Keep up with the industry association on Twitter @followMIC, online at MIC.org, and through the weekly MIC RideReport.

MotoGP: Can Quartararo Make It Three In A Row In Portugal?

Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha.

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP POISED FOR 2023 MOTOGP SEASON START IN PORTUGAL

Portimao (Portugal), 22nd March 2023

Following the Portimao MotoGP Official Test almost a fortnight ago, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli have travelled back to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve to kick off the 2023 MotoGP season this weekend with the Grande Prémio de Portugal.

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are eagerly awaiting the start of the new MotoGP season, which for the first time is staged at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli are looking forward to experiencing the new MotoGP race weekend format (including a Sprint on the Saturday) and give it their all to start the season off on the right foot.

Following an overall successful Portimao MotoGP Official Test, held almost two weeks ago, Quartararo is eagerly looking forward to riding his YZR-M1 at the Algarve track again. The combination of El Diablo and his Yamaha have proved to be a winning formula at this circuit in 2021 and 2022, making the Frenchman enter the 2023 Portuguese GP as one of the fan favourites.

Morbidelli, like many riders, has taken a liking to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve and its rather special lay-out. The elevation changes require a perfect setting and skilled riding. The Italian showed his potential at the very first MotoGP race in Portimao in 2020 by securing third place, and he finished in fourth place at the Portuguese GP in 2021. The Italian is keen to fight for the podium again this year.

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve – better known as Portimao (after the port city from which it is half an hour‘s drive removed) – is situated in the Algarve region of Portugal. The circuit was opened in 2008 and added to the MotoGP calendar in 2020. It‘s a big hit with the riders but also especially with the fans, who can’t get enough of their heroes taking on this track that is famous for its elevation changes. The circuit has 15 corners – nine right, six left – and the front straight will allow the MotoGP riders to really stretch the legs of their machines before a unique downhill descent into Turn 1.

Those who want to refresh their memories of what the Algarve circuit looks like, can watch the on-board helmet-cam lap by MotoGP eSport star Lorenzo Daretti.

As Daylight Saving Time commences this Sunday, the Grande Prémio de Portugal time schedule is in the GMT +0 time zone for Friday and Saturday, and in GMT +1 for Sunday. With the addition of Sprints in 2023, this weekend‘s MotoGP timetable (in local track time) looks as follows:

Friday

Practice 1: 10:45 – 11:30 (GMT +0)

Practice 2: 15:00 – 16:00 (GMT +0)

 

Saturday

Free Practice: 10:10 – 10:40 (GMT +0)

Qualifying 1: 10:50 – 11:05 (GMT +0)

Qualifying 2: 11:15 – 11:30 (GMT +0)

Sprint: 15:00 (GMT +0)

 

Sunday

Warm Up: 09:45 – 09:55 (GMT +1)

Race: 14:00 (GMT +1)

 

MASSIMO MEREGALLI

TEAM DIRECTOR

The first GP is always exciting because it‘s back to school for everyone. However, this time it‘s even more interesting because we have a new GP format. This will be the first time we get to do a Sprint, so that is something we look forward to. It‘s also the first time that we open the MotoGP season in Portugal. This is a good circuit for us, as shown by Fabio‘s two Portimao race wins in a row. We ended the test here almost two weeks ago on a positive note. It‘s important that we keep working in the right direction this weekend and set the right tone for the season. Like the fans, we can‘t wait any longer to watch some MotoGP racing!

FABIO QUARTARARO

We are finally starting the 2023 season, and I’m looking forward to this. The Portimao Test two weeks ago ended on a positive note, so we‘re heading into this weekend with confidence. We have an idea of what we would like to work on during the Friday session in preparation for our first ever Sprint on the Saturday. It’s been a long time since the last race, so I‘m sure the fans are very impatient to see us back in action. I look forward to seeing them at the track.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Over the long winter break, Yamaha prepared a lot of items for us to test. We tried a lot of things and gathered as much data as possible. This last week, after the Official Portimao Test, the data has been analysed, and the team is ready to go. The atmosphere in the team is always nice, but there is extra excitement in the air now because we are starting the new season. It‘s a clean slate, anything is possible, and we will give it our best shot.

Isle Of Man TT: Johnston Riding Ex-Factory Honda Superbike

Lee Johnston (13) testing his new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in Spain. Photo courtesy Lee Johnston Racing.
Lee Johnston (13) testing his new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in Spain. Photo courtesy Lee Johnston Racing.

HONDA SUPERBIKE SWITCH FOR JOHNSTON AT TT 2023

After a frustrating TT in 2022, Ashcourt Racing’s Lee Johnston is hoping that a switch from BMW to Honda machinery for the 1000cc classes will galvanize his efforts at the 2023 Isle of Man TT Races.

Johnston and the team have purchased ex-Glenn Irwin CBR1000RR-RR Fireblades from the official Honda Racing outfit, and is set to campaign the bikes in the RST Superbike, RL360 and Milwaukee Senior races later this year

Winner of the opening Supersport race in 2019, Johnston is hoping the switch to the Fireblade will elevate him further up the leaderboard in the big bike races and complement his challenge in the Monster Energy Supersport and Bennetts Supertwin Races where he’ll again be amongst the favourites for honours.

“We had a bit of trouble with the big bikes last year, electrical issues and the like, which was a real shame as I was running in the top four in both the Superbike and Superstock Races,” explained Johnston. “Being that high up only to run into problems was very frustrating.”

“You only have to look around the paddock at both the roads and the short circuits to see that the Honda Fireblade is favoured by a lot of riders, and quite a few guys have been going well on it lately. That tells me the bike has a good base chassis and it’s a good package all round so it’s worth trying at this year’s TT.”

That feeling has been confirmed for Johnston in recent tests at the Spanish circuits of Monteblanco and Andalucia.

“It’s changed massively since I last rode a Honda in 2018. The newer model feels really nice and smooth,” he explained. “It feels small too, and the fact it’s nice and compact gives a small rider like myself a lot of confidence straightaway. I felt really comfortable on it.”

Although considered more of a small bike rider, Johnston’s first ever TT podium came in the Superstock class when he finished third behind Ian Hutchinson and Michael Dunlop in 2015, and he’s determined to get good results on the Fireblade this time around:

“It was quite funny being on a Superstock podium alongside Hutchy and Michael, but I want to give it a real good go on the big bikes this year especially as things were going well last year before I hit trouble. I was able to lap at 130mph from a standing start and whilst there’s a couple of mph to be found for it to happen, I’d love to be on a big bike podium again.”

“That’s not going to be easy when you see the likes of Michael finishing off the podium in a Senior Race, like he did last year. That shows you how difficult it is to finish on a Superbike podium but the more mileage we do, the better chance we’ll have.”

It’s highly likely Johnston will contest some early season British Superstock Championship rounds, along with the British Supersport Championship on his familiar Yamaha YZF-R6.

Johnston will also compete in the two Bennetts Supertwin Races and is hopeful of being more competitive this year on his Aprilia RS660:

“We finished second in last year’s race but didn’t really deserve the podium, so we’ve been developing the bike over the winter to get some more power out of it. I want to be competitive and be genuinely ‘in’ the race this time around so as to bridge the gap to the front runners.”

“I’m not sure if the Paton’s that Peter [Hickman] and Michael rode last year will be in the race, but you’ve got to do 120mph to win the race no matter what you’re riding so that’ll be the aim.”

Estrella Galicia 0,0 Named Official Beer Partner Of MotoGP

Estrella Galicia-sponsored MotoGP racers Marc Marquez (right) and Alex Marquez (left). Photo courtesy Marc Marquez.
Estrella Galicia-sponsored MotoGP racers Marc Marquez (right) and Alex Marquez (left). Photo courtesy Marc Marquez.

Estrella Galicia 0,0 becomes the Global Official Beer Partner of MotoGP™

The Spanish beer brand joins forces with the world’s biggest motorcycle World Championship as Official Beer in a new, multi-year partnership

Wednesday, 22 March 2023

Estrella Galicia 0,0 and Dorna Sports are delighted to announce a new partnership, with a multi-year agreement welcoming the iconic beer brand as the Official Beer of MotoGP™ from 2023. As Official Beer, the Estrella Galicia 0,0 name will become omnipresent in MotoGP™, reaching hundreds of millions of fans around the world as the sport embarks on the first blockbuster season of a new era.

Estrella Galicia 0,0 is a Spanish brand of beer produced by Hijos de Rivera, located in A Coruña, Galicia. Founded in 1906, for more than a century the company has developed some of the world’s most recognisable beers, with a presence in more than 60 countries. Estrella Galicia 0,0 already enjoys a considerable presence in motorsport, including some partnerships in the MotoGP™ paddock, making Estrella Galicia 0,0 the perfect choice for the Official Beer of MotoGP™.

Estrella Galicia 0,0 has already become well known for its contribution to motorcycle racing talent since 2011, and has supported riders from their very first professional racing experience in the European Talent Cup and JuniorGP™ to the premier class of Grand Prix motorcycle racing: MotoGP™. With support for different MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ teams and riders stretching back more than a decade, Estrella Galicia 0,0 has been part of 12 World Championships and over one hundred Grand Prix wins thanks to great champions like Marc Marquez, Joan Mir, Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli.

More than half of the 22 riders on the MotoGP™ grid have been supported by Estrella Galicia 0,0 at some time in their racing careers. Estrella Galicia 0,0 becoming the Official Beer of MotoGP™ is a natural step forward in the relationship between both parties, as they share the same spirit in the pursuit of excellence.

The iconic Estrella Galicia 0,0 brand will enjoy a worldwide presence thanks to MotoGP™ broadcasts – and fans in the stands – with trackside advertising across much of the calendar in the first year of this new partnership, to be increased to a higher number of venues in subsequent seasons.

On top of all the commercial benefits at different racetracks across the record-breaking 2023 calendar, including a dedicated brand space in the paddock for sharing the culture and DNA of the family-owned independent Spanish brewery, this agreement also puts special focus on developing joint initiatives within the MotoGP™ community, working together towards a more sustainable entertainment model to put positive impact at the top of the agenda.

In addition, Estrella Galicia 0,0 will also be present in  the MotoGP VIP Village™, ensuring the brand enjoys a key presence in the corporate hospitality programme of MotoGP™.

The announced agreement also includes a digital package, ensuring the new Official Beer of MotoGP™ reaches every facet of the sport’s global audience: the paddock, the grandstands, online platforms, and television broadcast – reaching hundreds of millions of fans.

Ignacio Rivera, CEO of Corporación Hijos de Rivera (Estrella Galicia 0,0): “Motorcycling racing is one of the projects that has given us the most reasons for celebrations with Estrella Galicia 0,0 in recent years. Encouraging the development of the talent of riders has been and continues to be our raison d’être since we entered the paddock in 2011 and, after a decade of enjoying their success, we are delighted to be able to go one step further and become the official beer of the MotoGP World Championship at a global level, something which is undoubtedly a milestone for our company. We are not only united by our values of excellence and innovation, but also by a non-conformist nature that drives us to set challenges to work together with the whole community, progressively embedding positive impact as part of the MotoGP agenda.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “We’re delighted to welcome Estrella Galicia as the Official Beer of MotoGP. A global brand with a rich history in motorsport makes for a perfect partner for the world’s biggest motorcycle racing Championship. We’re very much looking forward to seeing the Estrella Galicia 0,0 name at the track and across our broadcasts, as well as welcoming their initiatives in the paddock and MotoGP VIP Village as we build on this strong partnership in the coming years.”

Pirelli Announces Consumer Rebate Program

A Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa rear tire. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
A Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa rear tire. Photo courtesy Pirelli.

Pirelli Announces Spring Consumer Rebate Program

Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires Through April 30, 2023

ATLANTA – Pirelli Tire North America has announced a consumer rebate program for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Pirelli tires through their local participating dealerships and select online retailers. This all-new program allows consumers within the United States to take advantage of as much as $25 USD rebate per tire or $60 USD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.

“With the riding season quickly approaching, Pirelli is excited to roll out a new consumer rebate program,” said Josh Whitmire, BU Moto – Director of Sales, Pirelli. “This limited-time offer will be available through local Pirelli dealerships and online Pirelli retailers. We are proud to include Pirelli products across various segments, offering an excellent opportunity for existing and new Pirelli riders to experience first-hand the high performance of Pirelli products.”

Eligible Pirelli street tires will receive a $25 USD per tire rebate or $60 USD rebate per set and include the Diablo™ Supercorsa SP V3, Diablo Rosso™ IV Corsa, Diablo Rosso™ IV, Angel™ GT II, Angel™ GT, Night Dragon™, Night Dragon™ GT, Scorpion™ Trail II, MT 60™, MT 60™ RS, Scorpion™ Rally STR, Scorpion™ MT 90 A/T, Phantom™ Sportscomp, and Sport Demon™.

For off-road, eligible tires will offer a $30 USD rebate per set and include the Scorpion™ MX Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Hard, Scorpion™ XC Mid Soft, Scorpion™ XC Mid Hard, MT 43™ Pro Trial, MT 16™ Garacross, and Scorpion™ Rally.

This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and April 30, 2023, and only for legal residents of the United States. After purchasing a set of qualifying Pirelli tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out an online claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital pre-paid VISA card.

For official terms and conditions, click here.

To learn more about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires and find a dealer, click here.

MotoGP: Bagnaia Says He Likes 2023 Ducati Better Than 2022 Bike

Francesco Bagnaia was quickest during MotoGP pre-season testing at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Francesco Bagnaia was quickest during MotoGP pre-season testing at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Ducati.

​​​​​​​The Ducati Lenovo Team is ready to hit the track in Portimão, Portugal, for the opening Grand Prix of the 2023 MotoGP season

The Ducati Lenovo Team is ready to officially kick off the new MotoGP season. From 24th-26th March, the Bologna-based squad will be at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, Portugal, to contest the first of 21 Grands Prix scheduled on the calendar this year.

Stage a few weeks ago of the last preseason test, the Portuguese track will host the opening round of the World Championship for the first time and will also be the circuit on which the MotoGP riders will face their first sprint race. Starting this year, the program of each event will be enriched by an additional race on Saturday, which will award about half the points and have a shorter distance compared to Sunday’s primary race. In addition to the sprint race, riders will also have to face two new tracks this year: Kazakhstan in July and India, which will host the World Championship in September.

Reigning World Champion Francesco Bagnaia is ready to tackle the new season to defend the number 1 on the front fairing of his Desmosedici GP. The rider from Chivasso was a great protagonist of the last test in Portimão, as he finished on top with a fastest time  757 thousandths faster than the current circuit record. Enea Bastianiani is also ready to make his debut as an official Ducati Lenovo Team rider, off the back of the good feelings he had with his Desmosedici GP during the last preseason test.

Francesco Bagnaia (#1, Ducati Lenovo Team)

“Finally, we are starting again, and I am really excited! The winter tests went well, and in some aspects, I like the Desmosedici GP 23 better than last year’s bike. There are all the conditions to be able to start this new season well: Portimão is a track that I like and where in general, I am fast. In any case, we have to stay focused because the competitiveness will definitely be very high. We will have to work at our best right from the start: this will be the first GP in which we will contest the sprint race, so we will have to get used to approaching the weekend in a different way. I’m ready and looking forward to getting on track to kick off the 2023 World Championship officially!”

Enea Bastianini (#23, Ducati Lenovo Team)

“I am happy to finally be back on track for the first GP of the season. It will be my first race as an official rider, and so it will be even more exciting. The last test here in Portimão went well, and we already have a good base to start our weekend’s work. Many riders have shown that they are competitive, so we will also have to be among the frontrunners right away, but I am confident that we have all the means to do so. I can’t wait to get back to work with my team!”

The Ducati Lenovo Team riders will take to the track for the first free practice session of the Portuguese GP on Friday, 24th March, at 10:45am local time (CET -1.00).

R.I.P. Longtime Race Mechanic Eric Gray

Eric Gray (right) with Jaret Nassaney (left) during the MotoAmerica event at Road Atlanta in 2022. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Eric Gray (right) with Jaret Nassaney (left) during the MotoAmerica event at Road Atlanta in 2022. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Longtime race mechanic and former racer Eric Gray was found dead today in his home in Cache, Oklahoma. He was believed to be 60 years old.

“I found him today,” said George Nassaney, owner of the Altus Motorsports dealerships and Altus Factory race team that Gray worked for as Race Team Manager. “Basically, he didn’t show up for work today. My son said something to me this morning, and I know how Eric is. He’ll text me if he’s going to be five minutes late. He’s just that type of guy.

“My gut kept saying there’s something wrong. So, I decided to drive to his house because I built his house several years back. It’s about a 45-minute drive. When I got down here he didn’t answer the door, so I started walking around the property, looked in a window, and saw him lying flat on his back in the living room.”

Nassaney then called the local police, who made entry into the home and confirmed that Gray was deceased and had been deceased for hours if not days. The time and cause of death, however, had not been determined at post time.

“I saw him Saturday afternoon at the close of business,” said Nassaney. “I told him I’d see him on Tuesday. Jaret [Nassaney, George Nassaney’s son and a racer for Altus Motorsports] texted him on Monday and he never texted him back, so he’s been gone for a day before this happened.

“We had just driven to Daytona in my personal pickup truck. We had a good trip down there, a good trip home, came back and started getting prepared for the rest of the season.

“He handled all the suspension for the motocross bikes and all the [road] race team stuff. And this year we made a change. We were going to have two crew chiefs with him on Jaret’s [Supersport] bike and [Brandon] Paasch’s [Stock 1000] bike, and Mike Castro as the Crew Chief for Alessandro Di Mario [Junior Cup] and Joe LiMandri’s [Twins Cup] bike. We’re going to race. Eric would want us to race. So, we’re going to have to find another person to come in and move forward.”

Altus Motorsports won the 2020 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Championships with Cameron Petersen and the 2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Championships with Jake Lewis and MotoAmerica Junior Cup races with Kayla Yaakov in 2022 under Gray’s leadership.

We will post more information as it becomes available.

Metzeler Launches 2023 Consumer Rebate Program

A Metzeler Sportec M9 RR rear tire. Photo courtesy Metzeler.
A Metzeler Sportec M9 RR rear tire. Photo courtesy Metzeler.

Metzeler Unveils 2023 Consumer Rebate Program

Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires for Residents of the United States

ATLANTA – Metzeler Moto North America unveils an all-new consumer rebate program for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Metzeler tires through their local participating dealership and select online retailers. Consumers within the United States can take advantage of as much as $25 USD rebate per tire or $60 USD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.

“Metzeler is thrilled to announce the consumer rebate program for 2023,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager, Metzeler. “One of our goals was to work alongside our participating dealers and make this program beneficial to various Metzeler riders, whether it be v-twin, sport, or off-road. Metzeler continues to set the industry standard, and we look forward to growing the brand across all segments again in 2023.”

Metzeler’s all-new consumer rebate program runs now through April 30, 2023.

A $25 USD per tire rebate or $60 USD rebate per set will be offered for the Metzeler Lasertec™, Enduro 3 Sahara, Racetec™ RR, Sportec™ M9 RR, Sportec™ M7 RR, Roadtec™ 01 SE, Roadtec™ 01, Roadtec™ Z8 Interact, Cruisetec™, ME 888 Marathon™ Ultra, Tourance™ Next, Tourance™ Next 2, Karoo™ Street, and Karoo™ 4. Additionally, the MCE 6 Days Extreme, MC360™ Mid Soft, and MC360™ Mid Hard are eligible for a $30 USD per set rebate.

This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and April 30, 2023, and only for legal residents of the United States. After purchasing a set of qualifying Metzeler tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out an online claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital pre-paid VISA card.

For official terms and conditions, click here.

To learn more about the complete line of Metzeler motorcycle tires and find a dealer, click here.

 

About METZELER

Metzeler has manufactured motorcycle tires since 1892 and our history goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development. Learn more at www.metzeler.com.

AHRMA: Race Results From Carolina Motorsports Park

Tim Terrell (220). Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
Tim Terrell (220). Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
RRW 2023 Carolina Motorsports Park - Weekend Results

American Flat Track: Senoia Short Track Happening March 25 In Georgia

Dallas Daniels (32), JD Beach (95), Brandon Robinson (44), and Jared Mees (1) in action at the 2023 AFT season-opener at Daytona. Photo courtesy AFT.
Dallas Daniels (32), JD Beach (95), Brandon Robinson (44), and Jared Mees (1) in action at the 2023 AFT season-opener at Daytona. Photo courtesy AFT.

Short Wait to Get Back on Track at Inaugural Senoia Short Track

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 21, 2023) – The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season resumes just two weeks after its thrilling Bike Week double-opener with the inaugural Yamaha Senoia Short Track at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia, on Saturday, March 25.

All eyes will be on second-year Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle star Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who comes in with a perfect 50-point score after orchestrating back-to-back virtuoso rides at the DAYTONA Short Track I & II.

Daniels will have some additional motivation to keep his hot streak going at Yamaha’s home round, as will teammate JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT). Combined, the Estenson Racing pairing have collected the last three Short Track victories in succession (and four of the last six), dating back to last season.

The two figure to face stiff challenges from last year’s other ST winners, Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), and Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 890 Duke).

Speaking of Bauman, the two-time Mission SuperTwins champ’s initial outing aboard his new KTM 890 Duke was one of the opener’s biggest stories. He didn’t disappoint in his Rick Ware Racing debut, claiming a podium in his first attempt, despite losing his brakes early in the contest.

The overall KTM premier-class presence will be further bolstered at Senoia where Bauman and his brother, Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing/2 Wheelz KTM 890 Duke), will be joined by reigning Mission Production Twins champion Jesse Janisch (No. 33 KTM/Haversack/Z-Max 890 Duke), who will make his Wally Brown Racing debut this weekend.

Meanwhile, no one should ever overlook defending Mission SuperTwins king Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750). Mees had a bit of a quiet opener – at least by his standards – but he still managed to collect a pair of valuable fourths. And while he may not have won on a Short Track a year ago, he has taken multiple ST wins over his career and landed on the box in the close-quarters showdowns on more than one occasion in ‘22.

Along with Mees and the aforementioned Robinson, two other Indian-mounted pilots in Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) and Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) got their ‘23 campaigns off to impressive starts, the two finishing 2-3 behind Daniels the last time out.

Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) clearly demonstrated that he and his bike are capable of running up front with the best riders and equipment in the world in the opener. He and teammate Ryan Wells (No. 94 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) will look to follow up a promising opener with an even stronger performance on Saturday.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

A year ago, Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) kick-started his runaway Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER title triumph with six wins over the season’s opening nine races.

Therefore, it should be a serious concern for any prospective class title hopeful that Kopp is off to an even better beginning in ‘23, sweeping the first two rounds after going 1-2 to open ‘22.

While slowing Kopp is a daunting task, the field is loaded with hungry and skilled riders across several manufacturers.

Besides the defending champion, KTM is represented by with some of the category’s most decorated riders, headlined by the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F), and Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F).

The American Honda-backed Turner Honda effort has been a powerhouse since its earliest days, and ‘23 looks to be no different with the talented trio of Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R).

Yamaha, meanwhile, will see its home turf defended by the talented Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) and Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F).

And Husqvarna has a 1-2 punch of its own in James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450).

Along with joining the premier class in underlining the depth of manufacturer parity and diversity of Progressive AFT, the 2023 opener also showcased some riders who may be poised to step into the spotlight this season. Travis Petton IV (No. 82 ECG Racing/3 Bros KTM 450 SX-F), Justin Jones (No. 91 NRC Racing/Elder Trucking KTM 450 SX-F), and Andrew Luker (No. 11 Rackley Racing/Keeran Racing Yamaha YZ450F) all flashed eye-opening speed in Daytona, while rookies Logan Eisenhard (No. 166 Scotts Powersports/The Cycle Lab LLC KTM 450 SX-F) and Clark Morian (No. 133 Morian Racing/Wells Tuned KTM 450 SX-F) didn’t take long to prove they belonged.

This weekend’s action actually kicks off on Friday with some top-flight amateur racing at Senoia Raceway. The added value trend carries over into Saturday, when Progressive AFT will again welcome the inclusion of the Grand National Hooligan Championship on the evening’s bill.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained off the track as well, including numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, music, and extensive motorcycle parking.

General Admission tickets are just $40 (kids 12 and under just $5), while Reserved Grandstand tickets are $50 (all ages). Reserved Trackside Parking (add-on only) is also available for $60 per vehicle while Multi-Day Camping Passes (add-on only) are $75.

Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/yamaha-senoia-short-track-61409 to purchase your tickets today!

Gates will open for fans at 3:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT).

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv.

FOX Sports coverage, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 from the Yamaha Senoia Short Track on April 1 at 7:00 a.m. ET (4:00 a.m. PT).

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

About Progressive American Flat Track

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

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