KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.
MP13 Racing Yamaha’s Kayla Yaakov did not ride in Twins Cup FP1. Yaakov crashed and was injured during testing at Roebling Road Racing and will not be riding this weekend. We will report on Yaakov’s condition as more information becomes available. Stefano Mesa, meanwhile, has been enlisted to ride the MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 in the two races at Daytona.
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MotoAmerica Names BACK ON TRACK As A Preferred Charity
Back On Track Helps Injured Racers With Fan-Based Fundraising Efforts
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Back On Track, a Rookies of ’79 501(c)(3), is now a preferred charity of the 2023 MotoAmerica Championship.
“It was time for Back On Track, a Rookies of ’79 charity, to expand into helping injured road racers,” said Ronnie Jones, Executive Director of Back On Track. “When the founding members were racing, dirt track and road racing were combined with racers earning points in both disciplines to go towards the AMA Grand National Championship. After 12 years of focusing our efforts on injured dirt track racers, we are honored to be able to help injured road racers to also get back on track.”
Back On Track (BOT) will provide fundraising efforts for injured racers during the 2023 MotoAmerica Championship through a fan-based effort with 100 percent of all donations going directly to injured racers. BOT will not take any administrative fees from any donation and no matter how small the donation, donors’ efforts will make a large impact in helping injured racers get back on track.
“I’m proud to be a member of the AMA Rookies Class of ’79,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “The Management Group of MotoAmerica, including myself, are pleased to support Back On Track and support racers who are injured and miss events while recovering to get back in the series.”
For more information or to donate, click here.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.
Italtrans Racing Team presents the 2023 lineup
A passion, a family, an adventure.
With the official presentation at the Italtrans SpA headquarters in Calcinate (BG), the new 2023 season of the Italtrans Racing Team begins.
A beautiful story that began 14 years ago, which with its successes has consecrated the team from Bergamo among the reference formations of the intermediate class of the MotoGP World Championship.
Also this year the commitment in the Moto2 class is renewed with two Triumph-powered Kalex. Riding two very talented riders: the reconfirmed Joe Roberts and the new entry Dennis Foggia.
In his third season with Italtrans Racing Team, the American is ready to prove himself among the best in the category. Thanks to the experience gained and teamwork, the Malibu driver’s goal is to be among the protagonists of this 2023, aware of the mistakes he has made and ready to confirm his potential.
Next to him is Dennis Foggia, who like Enea Bastianini and Lorenzo Dalla Porta has chosen Italtrans Racing Team for the leap to Moto2. After a brilliant 2022 as a protagonist in the fight for the Moto3 class World Champion title, the Roman rider will make his debut with the aim of growing and gaining experience.
In two weeks, exactly on 17-18-19 March, the team will take to the track in Portimao for three days of official tests. The following weekend, 25-26 March, again on the Portimao circuit, the first Grand Prix of this new 2023 season.
Laura Bertulessi | TEAM OWNER
“Our adventure in Moto2 continues. Being here again, after 14 years of work and experience, makes us one of the reference teams in the world championship. Once again a double challenge awaits us: that of Joe, who we hope will be confirmed among the best, and that of Dennis, who, like other riders before him, has chosen us for the leap from Moto3 to Moto2 and will take on the role of rookie in a totally new class. We are very happy with his choice and with the trust he has in our team. We have all the credentials to be protagonists and this season too we will be on track with the aim of demonstrating all our talent. We are proud and proud of our team and all the guys who make it up. Thanks to all the sponsors for their precious support in this adventure.
Dennis Foggia #71
“I am very happy to have joined the Italtrans Racing Team family. I felt good right from the first tests and I can’t wait to get back on track to get to work with the team. It will be important to find the right feeling both with the bike and with the guys, with the aim of growing together. The team will put all its experience into play to support me and help me grow in Moto2″.
Joe Roberts #16
“I am very happy to start this new year with the team. In recent months I have had the opportunity to rest and stay at home with my family. I’m happy to be back in Europe and see everyone again after the winter break: last year we had some good races and I know I can improve this year”.
John Sandi | TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
“We are coming to this new season full of energy and motivated to do well. There are several technical innovations and we are determined to confirm ourselves as a top team. Joe will have to put into practice everything he has learned in previous seasons and demonstrate his full potential. Dennis has a rookie season ahead of him: he will have the opportunity to test himself and gain experience. The whole team is ready to get involved for a season full of expectations”.
NASCAR Star Kurt Busch Named Grand Marshal for Progressive American Flat Track’s DAYTONA Short Track Doubleheader
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 8, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track is thrilled to announce that NASCAR superstar Kurt Busch will serve as the Grand Marshal for the DAYTONA Short Track I & II presented by Daytona Dodge on Thursday, March 9, and Friday, March 10, in Daytona Beach, Florida.
The 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, who most recently drove the No. 45 Monster Energy Toyota Camry TRD for 23XI Racing, Busch knows exactly what it takes to reign supreme at Daytona International Speedway. Chief among the extensive list of accomplishments he’s garnered during a lifetime of racing is his 2017 DAYTONA 500 victory.
In addition to his NASCAR Cup title and DAYTONA 500 victory, Busch boasts 34 Cup victories, has won in all three of NASCAR’s top divisions – the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Craftsman Truck Series – and was named Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year in 2014.
The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10. Get your tickets now at https://www.tixr.com/promoters/americanflattrack.
For those that can’t catch the live action from Daytona International Speedway, 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 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 Daytona Short Track I on March 18 at 10:30 am ET (7:30 am PT) and Daytona Short Track II on March 19 at 12:30 pm ET (9:30 am PT).
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com
Tickets are on sale now for the DAYTONA 200 and other events during Bike Week at The World Center of Racing. For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway via www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, as well as the all-new NASCAR Tracks App, for the latest speedway news.
About Daytona International Speedway
Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. Some of the exciting racing events include January’s Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and Roar Before The Rolex 24, February’s DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, March’s Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, the August Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekend, and much more. The Speedway grounds are also used extensively for other events that include concerts (Welcome to Rockville, Heroes Honor Festival, etc.), sporting events (DAYTONA Soccer Fest, CLASH DAYTONA, etc.) civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.
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.
Suzuki Announces Returning Motorcycles to Round Out 2023 Line-up
Brea, CA (March 8, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is proud to announce three popular motorcycles to complete the 2023 model lineup: the GSX-S750Z ABS, GSX-S750Z, and GSX250R ABS. These models feature proven designs and advanced technology, making each ideal for riders of all skill levels looking for some excitement in style.
The 2023 GSX-S750Z/ABS models blend GSX-R750-derived engine performance with aggressive naked sportbike styling that’s ready to turn heads as the performance leader in its class. The 2023 GSX-S750Z ABS features a Metallic Oort Gray No. 3 and Glass Sparkle Black color scheme, while the GSX-S750Z comes in a vivid Pearl Brilliant White and Champion Yellow No. 2 combination.
Key Features:
Fuel-injected, 749cc, four-cylinder engine using GSX-R architecture delivers a torque-rich, sportbike experience.
Advanced Traction Control* lets the rider select sensitivity to match road conditions, and the unique GSX-S750 chassis integrates the best qualities of a tubular girder streetbike frame and a twin-spar sportbike frame, providing precise handling.
Fitted with KYB suspension and radial-mounted Nissin four-piston brake calipers with wave-style rotors up front, ensuring strong and consistent braking performance. The GSX-S750Z ABS is equipped with a compact, smooth-operating Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)**.
Aggressive streetfighter styling with ergonomically comfortable, yet sporty riding position is achieved with a wide, cast aluminum handlebar, a well-positioned seat, and foot pegs.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S750Z ABS
MSRP $9,149
2023 Suzuki GSX-S750Z
MSRP $8,649
The confidence-inspiring GSX250R ABS sportbike features a new, two-tone Metallic Diamond Red and Pearl Nebular Black color scheme bringing big bike impact to the 250 class. The fully faired, quarter-liter sportbike delivers easy-to-control performance, great fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and modern styling inspired by Suzuki’s championship-winning sportbike heritage.
Key Features:
The fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, responsive power with exceptional fuel economy estimate that delivers a riding range of over 250 miles***.
Reverse-lit LCD instrument panel, distinctive position lamps, and surface-emitting LEDs in the taillight.
Comfortable, roomy ergonomics for rider and passenger, with a slim fuel tank, and a low seat height perfect for new riders.
Ten-spoke, cast aluminum wheels, ABS-equipped** front disc brake with petal-type rotors, and well-tuned suspension components combined with an exceptional chassis that’s more than ready for any riding assignment.
2023 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
MSRP $4,999
Suzuki is excited to bring back these fan-favorite motorcycles to the 2023 Suzuki lineup. With Suzuki’s engineering excellence, impressive handling, and striking design elements, the GSX-S750Z ABS, GSX-S750Z, and GSX250R ABS are sure to provide riders with an unforgettable sportbike experience.
With a comprehensive 12-month unlimited mileage limited warranty and longer coverage periods with other benefits available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP), these 2023 Suzukis may be personalized with a wide range of Genuine Suzuki Accessories available at Suzuki dealers. For more information, please visit SuzukiCycles.com.
Note: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering.
*The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Traction control cannot prevent the front wheel from losing grip.
**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please drive carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
***Suzuki’s fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission measurement tests conducted by Suzuki and are intended for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage may vary depending on how you ride and maintain your vehicle, road and driving conditions, tire pressure, engine break-in, accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
Progressive and American Flat Track Announce Multi-Year Partnership Renewal
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 8, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance® will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in the seasons ahead thanks to a new multi-year renewal of their landmark sponsorship.
Founded in 1937, Progressive is the nation’s leading motorcycle insurer. That status was earned through decades of supporting the two-wheeled and motorsports communities, granting it a unique understanding on how to best meet the needs of motorcyclists.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance Company of Progressive AFT in 2020 and has expanded their support of the sport over the years through digital and experiential activations at events.
“Progressive has played an integral role in accelerating American Flat Track’s growth over the last few years and we truly appreciate their continued partnership,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “It’s great to work with a brand that shares the same values that we have; we are likeminded in the desire to engage with our customers in entertaining and memorable ways. We’re excited to kick off the next chapter of our partnership and working together with Progressive to make our races and the stars of the sport as memorable as the stars of Progressive’s ad campaigns.”
“We are thrilled to continue our support in growing this sport by serving as the title sponsor of American Flat Track,” said Todd Matthews, Progressive Acquisition Specialist. “As the No.1 motorcycle insurer, we recognize the passion, enthusiasm and commitment riders possess, and we are excited to see what’s in store in the seasons ahead.”
The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10. Get your tickets now at https://www.tixr.com/promoters/americanflattrack.
For those that can’t catch the live action from Daytona International Speedway, 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 Daytona Short Track I on March 18 at 10:30 a.m. ET (7:30 a.m. PT) and Daytona Short Track II on March 19 at 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 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.
Ready, Set Go: The MotoAmerica Series Kicks Off With The Daytona 200
It’s Go Time With The 81st Running Of The 200 Slated For March 11 At Daytona International Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 8, 2023) – Margin of victory is described as the difference between the winner and the loser in a sporting event. The margin of victory in the six MotoAmerica races held at Daytona International Speedway in 2022? A combined .615 of a second. Thus, the average difference between winners and losers in the five races was .102 of a second.
Brandon Paasch and Josh Hayes have won three Daytona 200s between them and are two of the favorites for the 81st running of the race on March 11. Photo by Brian J. Nelson
Or, quite literally, the blink of an eye.
Apparently, there are now three certainties in life: Death, taxes, and close finishes at Daytona, especially when it comes to the Daytona 200, which was the closest of the five MotoAmerica races held at the World Center of Racing in 2022.
So how close was Brandon Paasch’s victory over Cameron Petersen a year ago? A very scant .007 of a second after 200 miles of racing. Other forms of motor racing… eat your heart out.
And now it’s time for more with seven MotoAmerica races scheduled for March 9-11 at the World Center of Racing: Mission King Of The Baggers (two races), REV’IT! Twins Cup (two races), Mission Super Hooligan National Championship (two races) and, of course, the granddaddy of them all – the Daytona 200, sponsored in part by Pirelli and Bridgestone.
Daytona 200
With 52 riders from 16 countries entered in the 81st running of the Daytona 200, the race is truly back to where it once was as far as international riders choosing to start their racing seasons in Florida.
The list of favorites is plentiful, but it begins as it should with two-time defending Daytona 200 Champion Brandon Paasch and his TOBC Racing Triumph Street Triple RS, the same bike he raced to victory last year. A victory in this year’s 200 would make Paasch the first rider in history to win three Daytona 200s in a row.
To find Paasch’s main competition, you only have to look at last year’s results. The man Paasch beat by .007 of a second is back for a second career Daytona 200 and aiming to use what he learned in his debut to put himself on the top step in Victory Lane. That rider is Attack Performance Yamaha’s Cameron Petersen. If losing by .007 of a second doesn’t make you hungry then you’re in the wrong business.
Petersen will be going it alone in the Attack team with his teammate and two-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne opting not to take part in the 200.
Petersen’s fellow South African who now calls Portugal home, Sheridan Morais, was another who likely learned when not to lead the Daytona 200 as he was also passed by Paasch on the run to the finish line and ended up third – just .057 of a second from victory. Morais will again be racing a Yamaha YZF-R6, this time under the R2CL Racing by Penz13 banner.
Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes was fourth in last year’s 200 and just .126 of a second from victory (you read that right – the top four were separated by just .126 of a second) so you know the bitter taste of defeat still lingers with Hayes. Thus, he’s back for more on the same Squid Hunter Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 and searching for his first Daytona 200 victory.
Daytona Fact #1: Although qualifying for the 200 is important, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Case in point: Hayes. A technical infraction during qualifying led to a penalty that resulted in Hayes being gridded dead last and 13 rows behind pole sitter Josh Herrin and his Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V2. Yet he was able to fight his way through to the lead pack and end up fourth, again just .126 of a second from victory.
The top four in last year’s race did manage to break away with Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante finishing fifth but a tick over 46 seconds behind Paasch. And Escalante was well clear of sixth-placed Danny Eslick, the four-time winner of the Daytona 200. Eslick, who will be back for another crack at win number five on his TOBC Racing Triumph, beat Harry Truelove to the finish line by just .074 of a second to take the spot.
Daytona Fact #2: Although it doesn’t happen as often as you think, things can go wrong during pit stops, riders crash (even on the opening lap, believe it or not), and motorcycles have mechanical failures. So, although it’s normally the drafting battle that decides the 200, there’s always drama prior to that final run to the flag that thins the herd.
Last year’s pole sitter Herrin should also be ranked among the favorites in what will be his only Supersport appearance of the season. Last year it was a Herrin/team miscue that cost them a shot at the victory when Herrin ran out of gas prior to the first pit stop. He battled on to finish 10th. Herrin will be joined this year in the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC squad by Spaniard Xavi Fores, the Spaniard who will represent the team in the battle for the 2023 MotoAmerica Supersport crown. It will mark Fores’ first foray in the Daytona 200, but he’s got plenty of experience and should be up to speed quickly.
Escalante will be joined in this year’s 200 by two teammates on the Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki team – Teagg Hobbs and Tyler Scott, the latter winning his first career Supersport race last year en route to finishing third in the title chase.
Others who could be considered favorites for the race include Celtic/Tytlers Cycle/TSE Racing’s PJ Jacobsen, Disrupt Racing’s Hayden Gillim, and his Disrupt Racing teammate for the 200, veteran Geoff May.
The 52 riders attempting to qualify for the 81st Daytona 200 will do so on six brands of motorcycles: Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Ducati, Triumph and MV Agusta.
Mission King Of The Baggers
Last year’s debut of the Mission King Of The Baggers on the high banks of Daytona International Speedway set the tone for what was an exciting season of Baggers racing with the title chase going down to the very last round.
The rider who emerged with the title was Indian Motorcycle/Progressive/Mission Food’s Tyler O’Hara and it was at Daytona where O’Hara got things rolling with a victory in race one by just .200 of a second over H-D Screamin’ Eagle’s Travis Wyman and by only .235 of a second over Travis’ brother, teammate and defending champion Kyle Wyman.
The other race winner from last year’s pair of races was O’Hara’s teammate Jeremy McWilliams, the 59-year-old Ulsterman taking race two by just .025 of a second over O’Hara with Bobby Fong third and just .160 of a second from victory in what was an Indian sweep of the podium.
With his win and runner-up finish in the two races, O’Hara led the title chase as MotoAmerica left Florida and headed to Road Atlanta for round two, but it would be a fight for the duration of the championship between the Indian and Harley-Davidson factory teams.
Expect more of that in 2023 with the big four factory riders (O’Hara, McWilliams and the Wyman brothers) expected to be at the front in every race that they take part in. But it won’t be just the four of them as Fong, who won a race last year, will be back on his Sac Mile/SDI Racing/Roland Sands Design Indian Challenger. But wait, there’s more.
Others who are capable of winning races at Daytona and beyond are series newcomer Jake Lewis, the former Superbike racer set to make his Mission King Of The Baggers debut on a Team Saddlemen Harley-Davidson and his teammates on the four-rider team – Cory West, Frankie Garcia and Patricia Fernandez.
Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson will feature Hayden Gillim, in his return to the class, and sophomore King Of The Baggers racer James Rispoli.
Lewis isn’t the only Superbike racer who will make his debut on a Bagger in 2023 as popular privateer Max Flinders joins the show on an M3/Revolution Performance Indian Challenger.
REV’IT! Twins Cup
The 2023 MotoAmerica REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship will get rolling with two races set for the Speedway. Last year Blake Davis started his championship-winning season with a victory in race one at Daytona with the N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto-backed Virginian topping Teagg Hobbs by a scant .065 of a second.
Davis is back to defend his title on a Biothermal/Blake Davis Racing Yamaha and will also make his debut in the Daytona 200, which means two races for the youngster.
Davis will be joined by 37 other riders who have entered the series opener, including last year’s race-two winner Hayden Schultz. Schultz bested Jody Barry in 2022’s race two by just .241 of a second. Schultz will be back for more on his Cycle Tech Yamaha YZF-R7. Ditto for Barry who will ride an Optimum Performance Motorsports Aprilia RS 660.
Others expected to be at or near the front include Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s Ben Gloddy, his teammate for Gus Rodio, Trackday Winner/Blackmon Racing’s Jackson Blackmon, Team ISO’s Dominic Doyle, Wrench Motorcycles’ Cody Wyman, and Altus Motorsports’ Joseph LiMandri Jr.
Kayla Yaakov, meanwhile, will also make her much-anticipated REV’IT! Twins Cup debut on the MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Yaakov comes to Daytona a bit beaten up after a testing crash the weekend prior to the race.
Mission Super Hooligan National Championship
Last year the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship consisted of one race at Daytona International Speedway. This year there will be two.
Like the rest of the races in 2022, the Hooligan race was a thrill-fest with just .077 of a second separating winner Andy DiBrino from Cory West with Tyler O’Hara a shadow third – just .272 of a second behind DiBrino.
Expect double of that in 2023 at the Speedway as 34 riders will attempt to qualify, including DiBrino and his DiBrino Racing KTM 890 Duke R, Team Saddlemen’s West and defending class champion O’Hara on his Indian Motorcycle/Progressive/Mission Foods Indian FTR1200.
Three-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong will make his Hooligan debut at Daytona on a Roland Sands Design/Indian-backed FTR1200 and will certainly make his presence felt in the lead pack.
Ditto for Jeremy McWilliams, the Northern Irelander set for a full season of Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competition as O’Hara’s teammate.
West will also have a teammate on Team Saddlemen – his wife, Patricia Fernandez-West, who finished fifth in last year’s race.
Daytona Pre-Race Notes
Yamaha is the winningest brand by far in the Daytona 200 with 27 trips to the top step in Victory Lane since the first-ever Daytona 200 was held in January of 1937 on the old beach circuit. The winner of that first Daytona 200 was Ed Kretz, who was riding an Indian. Harley-Davidson sits second on the-all time manufacturer win list in the 200 with 16 victories, the last of which was Cal Rayborn’s victory in 1969. The third highest win total goes to Honda with 11 victories in the 200 with Jake Zemke the last rider to win the race on a Honda in 2006.
Brandon Paasch’s second consecutive victory in 2022 was Triumph’s fifth in the Daytona 200.
Paasch set the fastest lap of last year’s Daytona 200 en route to victory with the New Jerseyan lapping at 1:49.959 on the 42nd lap. He was the only rider to crack into the 1:49s and his best race lap was actually quicker than the fastest lap in qualifying set by Josh Herrin at 1:50.088. Paasch started the race from row two after qualifying fourth.
The first Daytona 200 to be run at Daytona International Speedway was in 1961 with Roger Reiman taking victory on his Harley-Davidson.
The Daytona 200 switched to Superbikes in 1985 with Freddie Spencer winning his one and only Daytona 200 on a Honda. Superbikes were featured in the 200 until 2005 when 600cc Formula Xtreme bikes took over. The FX class ran in the 200 until 600cc Daytona SportBikes were used beginning in 2009 with Ben Bostrom’s victory on a Yamaha YZF-R6.
This year’s 200 will mark the beginning of MotoAmerica’s second season of using the FIM’s “Supersport Next Generation” rules, with the class featuring Yamaha’s YZF-R6, Ducati’s Panigale V2, Suzuki’s GSX-R750 and GSX-R600, Kawasaki’s ZX-6R, Triumph’s Speed Triple RS and, new for 2023, MV Agusta’s F3RR.
Yamaha again leads the way in manufacturer representation in the Daytona 200 with 25 of the 52 riders entered on Yamaha YZF-Rs. Kawasaki and Suzuki both have nine bikes entered with Ducati fielding nine of its Panigale V2s. There will be two Triumph Street Triple RSs in the race and the lone MV Agusta.
Three former winners of the Daytona 200 will line up for this year’s race with four-time victor Danny Eslick leading the win list over two-time winner Brandon Paasch and one-time winner Josh Herrin. A victory by Eslick in this year’s race would give him five Daytona 200 wins and that would tie him with Scott “Mr. Daytona” Russell and Miguel Duhamel. Russell, incidentally, will be a spectator at Daytona, camping out with family and friends in the infield.
All five of Russell’s wins (1992, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998) in the Daytona 200 came when the class featured Superbikes; Miguel Duhamel won four 200s on Superbikes (’91, ‘96, ’99, 2003) and one on a 600cc Formula Xtreme bike (2005). Eslick’s four wins all came in the 600cc Daytona SportBike/Supersport era.
Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes will again race in the Daytona 200 on a Squid Hunter Yamaha YZF-R6 after finishing a close fourth in the four-ride scrap that went to the finish line last year. Hayes was just .126 of a second from victory. Hayes has never won a 200, though he did cross the finish line first in 2008. Hayes’ Honda CBR600RR, however, didn’t pass its post-race technical inspection and the race instead went to Chaz Davies.
Welshman Davies is the last non-American to win the Daytona 200 with Americans winning 65 of the 80 Daytona 200s.
With America leading the way in victories (65) in the Daytona 200, Canada is second with five wins – all thanks to five-time winner Miguel Duhamel. Australia is third on the list with three wins and, again, it was one rider who won the races – Mat Mladin.
Finland (Jarno Saarinen), Italy (Giacomo Agostini), Venezuela (Johnny Cecotto), France (Patrick Pons), New Zealand (Graeme Crosby) and Great Britain (Chaz Davies) all have one win apiece in the 200 and are the other foreigners to win the race.
Thirty-eight riders have entered the REV’IT! Twins Cup races for Daytona with four manufacturers represented: Yamaha, Aprilia, Suzuki, and Kawasaki.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.
MotoE™ starts new era with emphatic lap record from Granado
It was a successful three days at Jerez for the electric field as Ducati begin their new adventure in style – with some seriously tight timesheets in the top ten
Wednesday, 08 March 2023
Lights out for the first ever FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship is getting ever closer, and the first track action for the class of 2023 has now concluded at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto. From Monday to Wednesday, the grid had four 15-minute sessions of track action each day as the new era begins, giving them time to get familiar with their new machinery and prep for the biggest season yet! So who was fastest and what did we learn?
DAY BY DAY
Monday saw the field greeted by rain, and there were a couple of riders missing as they travelled back from the recent WorldSBK round in Indonesia, including expected contender Eric Granado (LCR E-Team). The first rider out was Kevin Zannoni (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) but not by much, with everyone eager for their first taste of the new Ducati. By the second session the weather was improving before more rain at the end of play.
Tuesday began with some rain and cloudy skies, but the weather finally started to improve and the slicks came out to play. The 1:54 barrier was first bested by Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) on Tuesday morning, before the Italian was joined there by compatriot – and rookie – Luca Salvadori (Prettl Pramac MotoE), as well as two-time Cup winner Jordi Torres (Openbank Aspar Team).
By the last session of the day, it was lap record time as the weather was finally dry enough to let the riders really push. Granado set the quickest lap of the test, and there were ten riders under the 1:48 barrier by the end of the day: Granado, Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE™), Nicolas Spinelli (Pons Racing 40), Casadei, rookie Randy Krummenacher (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™), Hikari Okubo (Tech 3 E-Racing), Torres, Kevin Manfredi (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse), Hector Garzo (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) and Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team).
Wednesday saw the rain return for the first session, and the second was given over to long runs. By the third session of the day, it was improving once again and the field headed out in earnest as the sun came out. The final session was good for slicks too, with a few damper patches but the riders able to use the full 15 minutes for a little more information gathering.
Still, no one beat Granado’s new lap record from Tuesday – and the field won’t be returning to Jerez to race this season, so that will stand for some time!
THE COMBINED TIMESHEETS
The combined timesheets are pretty much just Tuesday’s running, and Granado leads the way with some time in hand as his new record of a 1:47.053 sits top of the pile. Second overall it’s 2019 Cup winner Ferrari, with rookie Spinelli impressing in third and taking the honour of top rookie.
From Spinelli’s third place down to Garzo in ninth, no gap is bigger than a tenth. Casadei is 0.026 down on Spinelli, Krummenacher 0.020 off Casadei, Okubo 0.002 off Krummenacher, Torres 0.022 off Okubo, Manfredi 0.090 off Torres and Garzo 0.057 off Manfredi. Pons, in P10, is 0.115 further back, just ahead of Tito Rabat (Prettl Pramac MotoE).
As new eras go, that’s pretty close – and there is still another three-day test for the field to learn more. They’ll be hoping for better weather for that at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, so tune in for more from the 3rd to the 5th of April!
Check out the Tuesday combined times thanks to the Circuito de Jerez: here.
Follow MotoE™’s new social media channels!
The FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship now has its own presence across a number of social media platforms! With an action-packed content plan coming your way in 2023, make sure to follow the electric World Championship by clicking on the icons below… and we can also be found on TikTok @motoe!
MotoAmerica: How To Watch the Daytona 200
It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action
Everything you need to know to watch all the racing from Daytona International Speeedway!
JOSH BROOKES RETURNS TO THE ISLE OF MAN TT WITH FHO RACING
FHO Racing is delighted to announce that Josh Brookes will take part in this year’s Isle of Man TT Races on BMW machinery, as he returns to the famous 37.73-mile Mountain course after a five-year hiatus.
Making his long-awaited comeback to the Isle of Man, Josh will contest both Superstock races, as well as the Superbike TT and the blue-riband Senior TT aboard the BMW M 1000 RR, alongside teammate and nine-time TT winner Peter Hickman.
Josh made his debut at the TT in 2013 where he set a new fastest newcomers lap record (127.726mph), finishing 10th in the Superbike race. In 2014 he bettered his result in the Senior race finishing seventh, as well as securing 10th in the Superbike TT. With a small break between years, Josh headed back to the TT in 2017 and 2018, where in ’18 he scored his highest placed result in the Senior coming home fifth.
Faye Ho’s squad, FHO Racing is the official BMW Motorrad UK supported team on the Roads, as well as in the British Superbike Championship. In 2022 making its TT debut, the team celebrated a hat-trick of wins with Peter Hickman in the Superbike, Senior and Superstock races.
The Isle of Man TT Races gets underway, with first practice taking place on Monday 29 May. With a new-look schedule for 2023, the RST Superbike race is schedule for Sunday 4 June, the two RL360 Superstock races on 6th and 9th June and the Milwaukee Senior TT taking place on Saturday 10th June, click here for the full schedule.
Josh Brookes:
“I’m pleased it’s now out there and we can announce my return to the TT. It’s one of the most common subjects I get asked throughout the year at BSB, the fans always want to know; ‘are you coming back to the TT?’, will you ever be back?’, and ‘do you want to come back?’ It’s good to have the box ticked and now be able to say it’s happening!”
“Like all the other times I’ve been to the TT I’m both nervous and excited. It’s a big event and it’s thrilling, but it does create nerves and it’s full of emotion. FHO Racing has a great background at the event with all they achieved last year, I also have both the perfect and potentially the worst teammate with Pete.”
“The event has changed a little since I last raced in 2018, with the new schedule for this season with the change in the practice format and the Senior moved to the final Saturday, but I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and riding the Mountain course once again.”
Faye Ho – Team Principal:
“I’m very excited to have Josh joining us for the TT this year, he has a good history at the event securing the fastest newcomer lap in 2013 and he’s also achieved some good results, especially in the Senior TT having finished fifth previously.”
“Although BSB is our main priority with Josh for this season, he was keen to return to the TT after a five-year break and we were happy to support him in the Superbike, Senior and Superstock races on the M 1000 RR. I can’t wait to see him in action out there, and I think alongside Pete, we will have a strong presence at the TT.”
KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.
MP13 Racing Yamaha’s Kayla Yaakov did not ride in Twins Cup FP1. Yaakov crashed and was injured during testing at Roebling Road Racing and will not be riding this weekend. We will report on Yaakov’s condition as more information becomes available. Stefano Mesa, meanwhile, has been enlisted to ride the MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 in the two races at Daytona.
23_1_DAY_TWN_P1_res
MotoAmerica Names BACK ON TRACK As A Preferred Charity
Back On Track Helps Injured Racers With Fan-Based Fundraising Efforts
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Back On Track, a Rookies of ’79 501(c)(3), is now a preferred charity of the 2023 MotoAmerica Championship.
“It was time for Back On Track, a Rookies of ’79 charity, to expand into helping injured road racers,” said Ronnie Jones, Executive Director of Back On Track. “When the founding members were racing, dirt track and road racing were combined with racers earning points in both disciplines to go towards the AMA Grand National Championship. After 12 years of focusing our efforts on injured dirt track racers, we are honored to be able to help injured road racers to also get back on track.”
Back On Track (BOT) will provide fundraising efforts for injured racers during the 2023 MotoAmerica Championship through a fan-based effort with 100 percent of all donations going directly to injured racers. BOT will not take any administrative fees from any donation and no matter how small the donation, donors’ efforts will make a large impact in helping injured racers get back on track.
“I’m proud to be a member of the AMA Rookies Class of ’79,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “The Management Group of MotoAmerica, including myself, are pleased to support Back On Track and support racers who are injured and miss events while recovering to get back in the series.”
For more information or to donate, click here.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.
Italtrans Racing Team presents the 2023 lineup
A passion, a family, an adventure.
With the official presentation at the Italtrans SpA headquarters in Calcinate (BG), the new 2023 season of the Italtrans Racing Team begins.
A beautiful story that began 14 years ago, which with its successes has consecrated the team from Bergamo among the reference formations of the intermediate class of the MotoGP World Championship.
Also this year the commitment in the Moto2 class is renewed with two Triumph-powered Kalex. Riding two very talented riders: the reconfirmed Joe Roberts and the new entry Dennis Foggia.
In his third season with Italtrans Racing Team, the American is ready to prove himself among the best in the category. Thanks to the experience gained and teamwork, the Malibu driver’s goal is to be among the protagonists of this 2023, aware of the mistakes he has made and ready to confirm his potential.
Next to him is Dennis Foggia, who like Enea Bastianini and Lorenzo Dalla Porta has chosen Italtrans Racing Team for the leap to Moto2. After a brilliant 2022 as a protagonist in the fight for the Moto3 class World Champion title, the Roman rider will make his debut with the aim of growing and gaining experience.
In two weeks, exactly on 17-18-19 March, the team will take to the track in Portimao for three days of official tests. The following weekend, 25-26 March, again on the Portimao circuit, the first Grand Prix of this new 2023 season.
Laura Bertulessi | TEAM OWNER
“Our adventure in Moto2 continues. Being here again, after 14 years of work and experience, makes us one of the reference teams in the world championship. Once again a double challenge awaits us: that of Joe, who we hope will be confirmed among the best, and that of Dennis, who, like other riders before him, has chosen us for the leap from Moto3 to Moto2 and will take on the role of rookie in a totally new class. We are very happy with his choice and with the trust he has in our team. We have all the credentials to be protagonists and this season too we will be on track with the aim of demonstrating all our talent. We are proud and proud of our team and all the guys who make it up. Thanks to all the sponsors for their precious support in this adventure.
Dennis Foggia #71
“I am very happy to have joined the Italtrans Racing Team family. I felt good right from the first tests and I can’t wait to get back on track to get to work with the team. It will be important to find the right feeling both with the bike and with the guys, with the aim of growing together. The team will put all its experience into play to support me and help me grow in Moto2″.
Joe Roberts #16
“I am very happy to start this new year with the team. In recent months I have had the opportunity to rest and stay at home with my family. I’m happy to be back in Europe and see everyone again after the winter break: last year we had some good races and I know I can improve this year”.
John Sandi | TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
“We are coming to this new season full of energy and motivated to do well. There are several technical innovations and we are determined to confirm ourselves as a top team. Joe will have to put into practice everything he has learned in previous seasons and demonstrate his full potential. Dennis has a rookie season ahead of him: he will have the opportunity to test himself and gain experience. The whole team is ready to get involved for a season full of expectations”.
NASCAR Star Kurt Busch Named Grand Marshal for Progressive American Flat Track’s DAYTONA Short Track Doubleheader
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 8, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track is thrilled to announce that NASCAR superstar Kurt Busch will serve as the Grand Marshal for the DAYTONA Short Track I & II presented by Daytona Dodge on Thursday, March 9, and Friday, March 10, in Daytona Beach, Florida.
The 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, who most recently drove the No. 45 Monster Energy Toyota Camry TRD for 23XI Racing, Busch knows exactly what it takes to reign supreme at Daytona International Speedway. Chief among the extensive list of accomplishments he’s garnered during a lifetime of racing is his 2017 DAYTONA 500 victory.
In addition to his NASCAR Cup title and DAYTONA 500 victory, Busch boasts 34 Cup victories, has won in all three of NASCAR’s top divisions – the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Craftsman Truck Series – and was named Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year in 2014.
The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10. Get your tickets now at https://www.tixr.com/promoters/americanflattrack.
For those that can’t catch the live action from Daytona International Speedway, 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 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 Daytona Short Track I on March 18 at 10:30 am ET (7:30 am PT) and Daytona Short Track II on March 19 at 12:30 pm ET (9:30 am PT).
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com
Tickets are on sale now for the DAYTONA 200 and other events during Bike Week at The World Center of Racing. For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway via www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, as well as the all-new NASCAR Tracks App, for the latest speedway news.
About Daytona International Speedway
Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. Some of the exciting racing events include January’s Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and Roar Before The Rolex 24, February’s DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, March’s Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, the August Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekend, and much more. The Speedway grounds are also used extensively for other events that include concerts (Welcome to Rockville, Heroes Honor Festival, etc.), sporting events (DAYTONA Soccer Fest, CLASH DAYTONA, etc.) civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.
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.
Suzuki Announces Returning Motorcycles to Round Out 2023 Line-up
Brea, CA (March 8, 2023) – Suzuki Motor USA is proud to announce three popular motorcycles to complete the 2023 model lineup: the GSX-S750Z ABS, GSX-S750Z, and GSX250R ABS. These models feature proven designs and advanced technology, making each ideal for riders of all skill levels looking for some excitement in style.
The 2023 GSX-S750Z/ABS models blend GSX-R750-derived engine performance with aggressive naked sportbike styling that’s ready to turn heads as the performance leader in its class. The 2023 GSX-S750Z ABS features a Metallic Oort Gray No. 3 and Glass Sparkle Black color scheme, while the GSX-S750Z comes in a vivid Pearl Brilliant White and Champion Yellow No. 2 combination.
Key Features:
Fuel-injected, 749cc, four-cylinder engine using GSX-R architecture delivers a torque-rich, sportbike experience.
Advanced Traction Control* lets the rider select sensitivity to match road conditions, and the unique GSX-S750 chassis integrates the best qualities of a tubular girder streetbike frame and a twin-spar sportbike frame, providing precise handling.
Fitted with KYB suspension and radial-mounted Nissin four-piston brake calipers with wave-style rotors up front, ensuring strong and consistent braking performance. The GSX-S750Z ABS is equipped with a compact, smooth-operating Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)**.
Aggressive streetfighter styling with ergonomically comfortable, yet sporty riding position is achieved with a wide, cast aluminum handlebar, a well-positioned seat, and foot pegs.
2023 Suzuki GSX-S750Z ABS
MSRP $9,149
2023 Suzuki GSX-S750Z
MSRP $8,649
The confidence-inspiring GSX250R ABS sportbike features a new, two-tone Metallic Diamond Red and Pearl Nebular Black color scheme bringing big bike impact to the 250 class. The fully faired, quarter-liter sportbike delivers easy-to-control performance, great fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and modern styling inspired by Suzuki’s championship-winning sportbike heritage.
Key Features:
The fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, responsive power with exceptional fuel economy estimate that delivers a riding range of over 250 miles***.
Reverse-lit LCD instrument panel, distinctive position lamps, and surface-emitting LEDs in the taillight.
Comfortable, roomy ergonomics for rider and passenger, with a slim fuel tank, and a low seat height perfect for new riders.
Ten-spoke, cast aluminum wheels, ABS-equipped** front disc brake with petal-type rotors, and well-tuned suspension components combined with an exceptional chassis that’s more than ready for any riding assignment.
2023 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
MSRP $4,999
Suzuki is excited to bring back these fan-favorite motorcycles to the 2023 Suzuki lineup. With Suzuki’s engineering excellence, impressive handling, and striking design elements, the GSX-S750Z ABS, GSX-S750Z, and GSX250R ABS are sure to provide riders with an unforgettable sportbike experience.
With a comprehensive 12-month unlimited mileage limited warranty and longer coverage periods with other benefits available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP), these 2023 Suzukis may be personalized with a wide range of Genuine Suzuki Accessories available at Suzuki dealers. For more information, please visit SuzukiCycles.com.
Note: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering.
*The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Traction control cannot prevent the front wheel from losing grip.
**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please drive carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
***Suzuki’s fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission measurement tests conducted by Suzuki and are intended for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage may vary depending on how you ride and maintain your vehicle, road and driving conditions, tire pressure, engine break-in, accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
Progressive and American Flat Track Announce Multi-Year Partnership Renewal
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 8, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance® will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in the seasons ahead thanks to a new multi-year renewal of their landmark sponsorship.
Founded in 1937, Progressive is the nation’s leading motorcycle insurer. That status was earned through decades of supporting the two-wheeled and motorsports communities, granting it a unique understanding on how to best meet the needs of motorcyclists.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance Company of Progressive AFT in 2020 and has expanded their support of the sport over the years through digital and experiential activations at events.
“Progressive has played an integral role in accelerating American Flat Track’s growth over the last few years and we truly appreciate their continued partnership,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “It’s great to work with a brand that shares the same values that we have; we are likeminded in the desire to engage with our customers in entertaining and memorable ways. We’re excited to kick off the next chapter of our partnership and working together with Progressive to make our races and the stars of the sport as memorable as the stars of Progressive’s ad campaigns.”
“We are thrilled to continue our support in growing this sport by serving as the title sponsor of American Flat Track,” said Todd Matthews, Progressive Acquisition Specialist. “As the No.1 motorcycle insurer, we recognize the passion, enthusiasm and commitment riders possess, and we are excited to see what’s in store in the seasons ahead.”
The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10. Get your tickets now at https://www.tixr.com/promoters/americanflattrack.
For those that can’t catch the live action from Daytona International Speedway, 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 Daytona Short Track I on March 18 at 10:30 a.m. ET (7:30 a.m. PT) and Daytona Short Track II on March 19 at 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 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.
Ready, Set Go: The MotoAmerica Series Kicks Off With The Daytona 200
It’s Go Time With The 81st Running Of The 200 Slated For March 11 At Daytona International Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 8, 2023) – Margin of victory is described as the difference between the winner and the loser in a sporting event. The margin of victory in the six MotoAmerica races held at Daytona International Speedway in 2022? A combined .615 of a second. Thus, the average difference between winners and losers in the five races was .102 of a second.
Brandon Paasch and Josh Hayes have won three Daytona 200s between them and are two of the favorites for the 81st running of the race on March 11. Photo by Brian J. Nelson
Or, quite literally, the blink of an eye.
Apparently, there are now three certainties in life: Death, taxes, and close finishes at Daytona, especially when it comes to the Daytona 200, which was the closest of the five MotoAmerica races held at the World Center of Racing in 2022.
So how close was Brandon Paasch’s victory over Cameron Petersen a year ago? A very scant .007 of a second after 200 miles of racing. Other forms of motor racing… eat your heart out.
And now it’s time for more with seven MotoAmerica races scheduled for March 9-11 at the World Center of Racing: Mission King Of The Baggers (two races), REV’IT! Twins Cup (two races), Mission Super Hooligan National Championship (two races) and, of course, the granddaddy of them all – the Daytona 200, sponsored in part by Pirelli and Bridgestone.
Daytona 200
With 52 riders from 16 countries entered in the 81st running of the Daytona 200, the race is truly back to where it once was as far as international riders choosing to start their racing seasons in Florida.
The list of favorites is plentiful, but it begins as it should with two-time defending Daytona 200 Champion Brandon Paasch and his TOBC Racing Triumph Street Triple RS, the same bike he raced to victory last year. A victory in this year’s 200 would make Paasch the first rider in history to win three Daytona 200s in a row.
To find Paasch’s main competition, you only have to look at last year’s results. The man Paasch beat by .007 of a second is back for a second career Daytona 200 and aiming to use what he learned in his debut to put himself on the top step in Victory Lane. That rider is Attack Performance Yamaha’s Cameron Petersen. If losing by .007 of a second doesn’t make you hungry then you’re in the wrong business.
Petersen will be going it alone in the Attack team with his teammate and two-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne opting not to take part in the 200.
Petersen’s fellow South African who now calls Portugal home, Sheridan Morais, was another who likely learned when not to lead the Daytona 200 as he was also passed by Paasch on the run to the finish line and ended up third – just .057 of a second from victory. Morais will again be racing a Yamaha YZF-R6, this time under the R2CL Racing by Penz13 banner.
Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes was fourth in last year’s 200 and just .126 of a second from victory (you read that right – the top four were separated by just .126 of a second) so you know the bitter taste of defeat still lingers with Hayes. Thus, he’s back for more on the same Squid Hunter Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 and searching for his first Daytona 200 victory.
Daytona Fact #1: Although qualifying for the 200 is important, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Case in point: Hayes. A technical infraction during qualifying led to a penalty that resulted in Hayes being gridded dead last and 13 rows behind pole sitter Josh Herrin and his Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V2. Yet he was able to fight his way through to the lead pack and end up fourth, again just .126 of a second from victory.
The top four in last year’s race did manage to break away with Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante finishing fifth but a tick over 46 seconds behind Paasch. And Escalante was well clear of sixth-placed Danny Eslick, the four-time winner of the Daytona 200. Eslick, who will be back for another crack at win number five on his TOBC Racing Triumph, beat Harry Truelove to the finish line by just .074 of a second to take the spot.
Daytona Fact #2: Although it doesn’t happen as often as you think, things can go wrong during pit stops, riders crash (even on the opening lap, believe it or not), and motorcycles have mechanical failures. So, although it’s normally the drafting battle that decides the 200, there’s always drama prior to that final run to the flag that thins the herd.
Last year’s pole sitter Herrin should also be ranked among the favorites in what will be his only Supersport appearance of the season. Last year it was a Herrin/team miscue that cost them a shot at the victory when Herrin ran out of gas prior to the first pit stop. He battled on to finish 10th. Herrin will be joined this year in the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC squad by Spaniard Xavi Fores, the Spaniard who will represent the team in the battle for the 2023 MotoAmerica Supersport crown. It will mark Fores’ first foray in the Daytona 200, but he’s got plenty of experience and should be up to speed quickly.
Escalante will be joined in this year’s 200 by two teammates on the Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki team – Teagg Hobbs and Tyler Scott, the latter winning his first career Supersport race last year en route to finishing third in the title chase.
Others who could be considered favorites for the race include Celtic/Tytlers Cycle/TSE Racing’s PJ Jacobsen, Disrupt Racing’s Hayden Gillim, and his Disrupt Racing teammate for the 200, veteran Geoff May.
The 52 riders attempting to qualify for the 81st Daytona 200 will do so on six brands of motorcycles: Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Ducati, Triumph and MV Agusta.
Mission King Of The Baggers
Last year’s debut of the Mission King Of The Baggers on the high banks of Daytona International Speedway set the tone for what was an exciting season of Baggers racing with the title chase going down to the very last round.
The rider who emerged with the title was Indian Motorcycle/Progressive/Mission Food’s Tyler O’Hara and it was at Daytona where O’Hara got things rolling with a victory in race one by just .200 of a second over H-D Screamin’ Eagle’s Travis Wyman and by only .235 of a second over Travis’ brother, teammate and defending champion Kyle Wyman.
The other race winner from last year’s pair of races was O’Hara’s teammate Jeremy McWilliams, the 59-year-old Ulsterman taking race two by just .025 of a second over O’Hara with Bobby Fong third and just .160 of a second from victory in what was an Indian sweep of the podium.
With his win and runner-up finish in the two races, O’Hara led the title chase as MotoAmerica left Florida and headed to Road Atlanta for round two, but it would be a fight for the duration of the championship between the Indian and Harley-Davidson factory teams.
Expect more of that in 2023 with the big four factory riders (O’Hara, McWilliams and the Wyman brothers) expected to be at the front in every race that they take part in. But it won’t be just the four of them as Fong, who won a race last year, will be back on his Sac Mile/SDI Racing/Roland Sands Design Indian Challenger. But wait, there’s more.
Others who are capable of winning races at Daytona and beyond are series newcomer Jake Lewis, the former Superbike racer set to make his Mission King Of The Baggers debut on a Team Saddlemen Harley-Davidson and his teammates on the four-rider team – Cory West, Frankie Garcia and Patricia Fernandez.
Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson will feature Hayden Gillim, in his return to the class, and sophomore King Of The Baggers racer James Rispoli.
Lewis isn’t the only Superbike racer who will make his debut on a Bagger in 2023 as popular privateer Max Flinders joins the show on an M3/Revolution Performance Indian Challenger.
REV’IT! Twins Cup
The 2023 MotoAmerica REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship will get rolling with two races set for the Speedway. Last year Blake Davis started his championship-winning season with a victory in race one at Daytona with the N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto-backed Virginian topping Teagg Hobbs by a scant .065 of a second.
Davis is back to defend his title on a Biothermal/Blake Davis Racing Yamaha and will also make his debut in the Daytona 200, which means two races for the youngster.
Davis will be joined by 37 other riders who have entered the series opener, including last year’s race-two winner Hayden Schultz. Schultz bested Jody Barry in 2022’s race two by just .241 of a second. Schultz will be back for more on his Cycle Tech Yamaha YZF-R7. Ditto for Barry who will ride an Optimum Performance Motorsports Aprilia RS 660.
Others expected to be at or near the front include Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering’s Ben Gloddy, his teammate for Gus Rodio, Trackday Winner/Blackmon Racing’s Jackson Blackmon, Team ISO’s Dominic Doyle, Wrench Motorcycles’ Cody Wyman, and Altus Motorsports’ Joseph LiMandri Jr.
Kayla Yaakov, meanwhile, will also make her much-anticipated REV’IT! Twins Cup debut on the MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Yaakov comes to Daytona a bit beaten up after a testing crash the weekend prior to the race.
Mission Super Hooligan National Championship
Last year the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship consisted of one race at Daytona International Speedway. This year there will be two.
Like the rest of the races in 2022, the Hooligan race was a thrill-fest with just .077 of a second separating winner Andy DiBrino from Cory West with Tyler O’Hara a shadow third – just .272 of a second behind DiBrino.
Expect double of that in 2023 at the Speedway as 34 riders will attempt to qualify, including DiBrino and his DiBrino Racing KTM 890 Duke R, Team Saddlemen’s West and defending class champion O’Hara on his Indian Motorcycle/Progressive/Mission Foods Indian FTR1200.
Three-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong will make his Hooligan debut at Daytona on a Roland Sands Design/Indian-backed FTR1200 and will certainly make his presence felt in the lead pack.
Ditto for Jeremy McWilliams, the Northern Irelander set for a full season of Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competition as O’Hara’s teammate.
West will also have a teammate on Team Saddlemen – his wife, Patricia Fernandez-West, who finished fifth in last year’s race.
Daytona Pre-Race Notes
Yamaha is the winningest brand by far in the Daytona 200 with 27 trips to the top step in Victory Lane since the first-ever Daytona 200 was held in January of 1937 on the old beach circuit. The winner of that first Daytona 200 was Ed Kretz, who was riding an Indian. Harley-Davidson sits second on the-all time manufacturer win list in the 200 with 16 victories, the last of which was Cal Rayborn’s victory in 1969. The third highest win total goes to Honda with 11 victories in the 200 with Jake Zemke the last rider to win the race on a Honda in 2006.
Brandon Paasch’s second consecutive victory in 2022 was Triumph’s fifth in the Daytona 200.
Paasch set the fastest lap of last year’s Daytona 200 en route to victory with the New Jerseyan lapping at 1:49.959 on the 42nd lap. He was the only rider to crack into the 1:49s and his best race lap was actually quicker than the fastest lap in qualifying set by Josh Herrin at 1:50.088. Paasch started the race from row two after qualifying fourth.
The first Daytona 200 to be run at Daytona International Speedway was in 1961 with Roger Reiman taking victory on his Harley-Davidson.
The Daytona 200 switched to Superbikes in 1985 with Freddie Spencer winning his one and only Daytona 200 on a Honda. Superbikes were featured in the 200 until 2005 when 600cc Formula Xtreme bikes took over. The FX class ran in the 200 until 600cc Daytona SportBikes were used beginning in 2009 with Ben Bostrom’s victory on a Yamaha YZF-R6.
This year’s 200 will mark the beginning of MotoAmerica’s second season of using the FIM’s “Supersport Next Generation” rules, with the class featuring Yamaha’s YZF-R6, Ducati’s Panigale V2, Suzuki’s GSX-R750 and GSX-R600, Kawasaki’s ZX-6R, Triumph’s Speed Triple RS and, new for 2023, MV Agusta’s F3RR.
Yamaha again leads the way in manufacturer representation in the Daytona 200 with 25 of the 52 riders entered on Yamaha YZF-Rs. Kawasaki and Suzuki both have nine bikes entered with Ducati fielding nine of its Panigale V2s. There will be two Triumph Street Triple RSs in the race and the lone MV Agusta.
Three former winners of the Daytona 200 will line up for this year’s race with four-time victor Danny Eslick leading the win list over two-time winner Brandon Paasch and one-time winner Josh Herrin. A victory by Eslick in this year’s race would give him five Daytona 200 wins and that would tie him with Scott “Mr. Daytona” Russell and Miguel Duhamel. Russell, incidentally, will be a spectator at Daytona, camping out with family and friends in the infield.
All five of Russell’s wins (1992, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998) in the Daytona 200 came when the class featured Superbikes; Miguel Duhamel won four 200s on Superbikes (’91, ‘96, ’99, 2003) and one on a 600cc Formula Xtreme bike (2005). Eslick’s four wins all came in the 600cc Daytona SportBike/Supersport era.
Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes will again race in the Daytona 200 on a Squid Hunter Yamaha YZF-R6 after finishing a close fourth in the four-ride scrap that went to the finish line last year. Hayes was just .126 of a second from victory. Hayes has never won a 200, though he did cross the finish line first in 2008. Hayes’ Honda CBR600RR, however, didn’t pass its post-race technical inspection and the race instead went to Chaz Davies.
Welshman Davies is the last non-American to win the Daytona 200 with Americans winning 65 of the 80 Daytona 200s.
With America leading the way in victories (65) in the Daytona 200, Canada is second with five wins – all thanks to five-time winner Miguel Duhamel. Australia is third on the list with three wins and, again, it was one rider who won the races – Mat Mladin.
Finland (Jarno Saarinen), Italy (Giacomo Agostini), Venezuela (Johnny Cecotto), France (Patrick Pons), New Zealand (Graeme Crosby) and Great Britain (Chaz Davies) all have one win apiece in the 200 and are the other foreigners to win the race.
Thirty-eight riders have entered the REV’IT! Twins Cup races for Daytona with four manufacturers represented: Yamaha, Aprilia, Suzuki, and Kawasaki.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.
MotoE™ starts new era with emphatic lap record from Granado
It was a successful three days at Jerez for the electric field as Ducati begin their new adventure in style – with some seriously tight timesheets in the top ten
Wednesday, 08 March 2023
Lights out for the first ever FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship is getting ever closer, and the first track action for the class of 2023 has now concluded at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto. From Monday to Wednesday, the grid had four 15-minute sessions of track action each day as the new era begins, giving them time to get familiar with their new machinery and prep for the biggest season yet! So who was fastest and what did we learn?
DAY BY DAY
Monday saw the field greeted by rain, and there were a couple of riders missing as they travelled back from the recent WorldSBK round in Indonesia, including expected contender Eric Granado (LCR E-Team). The first rider out was Kevin Zannoni (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) but not by much, with everyone eager for their first taste of the new Ducati. By the second session the weather was improving before more rain at the end of play.
Tuesday began with some rain and cloudy skies, but the weather finally started to improve and the slicks came out to play. The 1:54 barrier was first bested by Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) on Tuesday morning, before the Italian was joined there by compatriot – and rookie – Luca Salvadori (Prettl Pramac MotoE), as well as two-time Cup winner Jordi Torres (Openbank Aspar Team).
By the last session of the day, it was lap record time as the weather was finally dry enough to let the riders really push. Granado set the quickest lap of the test, and there were ten riders under the 1:48 barrier by the end of the day: Granado, Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE™), Nicolas Spinelli (Pons Racing 40), Casadei, rookie Randy Krummenacher (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™), Hikari Okubo (Tech 3 E-Racing), Torres, Kevin Manfredi (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse), Hector Garzo (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) and Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team).
Wednesday saw the rain return for the first session, and the second was given over to long runs. By the third session of the day, it was improving once again and the field headed out in earnest as the sun came out. The final session was good for slicks too, with a few damper patches but the riders able to use the full 15 minutes for a little more information gathering.
Still, no one beat Granado’s new lap record from Tuesday – and the field won’t be returning to Jerez to race this season, so that will stand for some time!
THE COMBINED TIMESHEETS
The combined timesheets are pretty much just Tuesday’s running, and Granado leads the way with some time in hand as his new record of a 1:47.053 sits top of the pile. Second overall it’s 2019 Cup winner Ferrari, with rookie Spinelli impressing in third and taking the honour of top rookie.
From Spinelli’s third place down to Garzo in ninth, no gap is bigger than a tenth. Casadei is 0.026 down on Spinelli, Krummenacher 0.020 off Casadei, Okubo 0.002 off Krummenacher, Torres 0.022 off Okubo, Manfredi 0.090 off Torres and Garzo 0.057 off Manfredi. Pons, in P10, is 0.115 further back, just ahead of Tito Rabat (Prettl Pramac MotoE).
As new eras go, that’s pretty close – and there is still another three-day test for the field to learn more. They’ll be hoping for better weather for that at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, so tune in for more from the 3rd to the 5th of April!
Check out the Tuesday combined times thanks to the Circuito de Jerez: here.
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JOSH BROOKES RETURNS TO THE ISLE OF MAN TT WITH FHO RACING
FHO Racing is delighted to announce that Josh Brookes will take part in this year’s Isle of Man TT Races on BMW machinery, as he returns to the famous 37.73-mile Mountain course after a five-year hiatus.
Making his long-awaited comeback to the Isle of Man, Josh will contest both Superstock races, as well as the Superbike TT and the blue-riband Senior TT aboard the BMW M 1000 RR, alongside teammate and nine-time TT winner Peter Hickman.
Josh made his debut at the TT in 2013 where he set a new fastest newcomers lap record (127.726mph), finishing 10th in the Superbike race. In 2014 he bettered his result in the Senior race finishing seventh, as well as securing 10th in the Superbike TT. With a small break between years, Josh headed back to the TT in 2017 and 2018, where in ’18 he scored his highest placed result in the Senior coming home fifth.
Faye Ho’s squad, FHO Racing is the official BMW Motorrad UK supported team on the Roads, as well as in the British Superbike Championship. In 2022 making its TT debut, the team celebrated a hat-trick of wins with Peter Hickman in the Superbike, Senior and Superstock races.
The Isle of Man TT Races gets underway, with first practice taking place on Monday 29 May. With a new-look schedule for 2023, the RST Superbike race is schedule for Sunday 4 June, the two RL360 Superstock races on 6th and 9th June and the Milwaukee Senior TT taking place on Saturday 10th June, click here for the full schedule.
Josh Brookes:
“I’m pleased it’s now out there and we can announce my return to the TT. It’s one of the most common subjects I get asked throughout the year at BSB, the fans always want to know; ‘are you coming back to the TT?’, will you ever be back?’, and ‘do you want to come back?’ It’s good to have the box ticked and now be able to say it’s happening!”
“Like all the other times I’ve been to the TT I’m both nervous and excited. It’s a big event and it’s thrilling, but it does create nerves and it’s full of emotion. FHO Racing has a great background at the event with all they achieved last year, I also have both the perfect and potentially the worst teammate with Pete.”
“The event has changed a little since I last raced in 2018, with the new schedule for this season with the change in the practice format and the Senior moved to the final Saturday, but I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and riding the Mountain course once again.”
Faye Ho – Team Principal:
“I’m very excited to have Josh joining us for the TT this year, he has a good history at the event securing the fastest newcomer lap in 2013 and he’s also achieved some good results, especially in the Senior TT having finished fifth previously.”
“Although BSB is our main priority with Josh for this season, he was keen to return to the TT after a five-year break and we were happy to support him in the Superbike, Senior and Superstock races on the M 1000 RR. I can’t wait to see him in action out there, and I think alongside Pete, we will have a strong presence at the TT.”
