MotoAmerica: Teagg Hobbs’ Journey To A Professional Supersport Ride (Video)

David Swarts

-

March 20, 2023

MotoAmerica: Teagg Hobbs’ Journey To A Professional Supersport Ride (Video)

@gasonbikeup-motorcycles has a great lineup coming your way. Factory racers, top motorcycle industry pros, suspension gurus, insightful riding technique breakdowns, explanations of the physics of motorcycle riding and design, stories and paths for a successful track day or racing career and more.

This video tells a tale of how one rider went from club racing all the way to a seat on one of the top teams in MotoAmerica – Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki (that’s a mouthful!).

If you’re interested in road racing or track days, this video is for you! You’ll learn about his journey from beginner rider to factory MotoAmerica Supersport rider, as well as his plans for the 2023 Daytona 200 and more.

I hope you enjoy the video and that it helps you find a path to your own motorcycle racing dreams! Teagg shares not only his story, but we also talk about some of this things that helped him find the support he needed along the way. We also dig into his Daytona 200 story in 2023.

If you know an aspiring racer, Teagg has a great story to tell! Have feedback or suggestions? We’d love to hear from you! Check out our website at https://gasonbikeup.com or email us at [email protected].

MotoGP: 2023 Season Starts This Coming Weekend In Portugal

David Swarts

-

March 20, 2023

0

MotoGP: 2023 Season Starts This Coming Weekend In Portugal

22 riders. One crown. Ready for more MotoGP™ than ever?

The new era dawns as the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal sets in motion the biggest season ever

Monday, 20 March 2023

This is it. 22 riders, 11 teams, 21 MotoGP™ Sprints and 21 Grand Prix races. More MotoGP™ than ever before, and the first helping is right around the corner. Where? The rollercoaster: the one and only Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. When? This weekend, with media activities on Thursday 23rd of March before track action from the 24th. Friday decides Q1 and direct Q2 entry for MotoGP™. On Saturday the Sprint lands. And on Sunday? 25 laps decide who takes the first 25-point haul of the season. One reigning Champion, 22 contenders and the world watching on.

So here we go… in the team order we left off with in testing!

DUCATI LENOVO TEAM: Bagnaia & the Beast

The reigning Champion always has a target on his back, and Francesco Bagnaia hasn’t shied away from that in choosing to run the number 1 either. Neither has his pace and form so far in testing, with a new lap record and sweltering Sprint simulation raising some eyebrows in pitlane during the recent test. After turbulent beginnings to 2022, can Bagnaia start this season on the front foot? And if he does, how will he have to adapt to being the hunted rather than the rider hunting down that record deficit in 2022?

The other side of the garage looks a little different this season though. After already duelling it out with Bagnaia a few times last year, Enea Bastianini is now the call coming from inside the house. Can he make his presence more than just a shiver of nerves and really take Bagnaia on? In Portimao, he’s not got the best record barring good memories from his Moto2™ Championship win, so we may need to be patient. But then comes Argentina, and then comes Texas – where the Beast already ruled last season. We can also be sure that Bastianini won’t even start the battle with the gloves on.

PRIMA PRAMAC RACING: show us your hand

Now a true Ducati veteran, Johann Zarco spent a lot of preseason with his head down, testing for the factory. Then came the last day of track action and the Frenchman said that was his day to work on his bike and setup… and he shot straight up into second behind Bagnaia. That’s a warning signal for all, as is a previous podium finish at Portimao. Is that a reflection of long term form?

For Jorge Martin, meanwhile, the track may not show off the best of the number 89. He suffered a big crash there in 2021 too. He was eighth in the test, and he’ll want more than that on the first grid of the year. And maybe we’ll just need a little patience. Most agree Martin is tipped for serious success, and he’s already a race winner… could it be Argentina, where he fought for the win last year, where we really get to see that explosive speed searing through? Or has he got more in the locker for Portimao too?

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP™: Quartararo back in business

The tale of two riders continued for Yamaha in preseason, but the tale of top speed seems to have a happier ending for the moment. The speed traps made for good reading, but when the Iwata marque put it all together for a hot lap on new tyres in Sepang… nothing happened. That was a brief worry, but it seems Fabio Quartararo certainly figured it out by the end of the Portimao test as he ended it in third, going back on some aero to maintain other steps forward. Threat: reloaded.

Quartararo is a two-time winner at Portimao too, and will be pushing his limits to make sure that becomes three. For Franco Morbidelli, meanwhile, there’s still a step to be found, with the Italian ending the test seven tenths off his teammate. Can he find more this weekend?

MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM: Marini & Bezzecchi step up

Luca Marini was the king of preseason in Valencia and Sepang, with the Italian putting on quite a show – and showing how much of a weapon the GP22 remains, if anyone needed proof. Marini’s MO throughout his career has been building on what he’s learned to take another step forward, at his pace, and that hasn’t disappeared in MotoGP™. It also appears that his most recent step takes him to to the podium fight – so can he take that first rostrum soon?

Marco Bezzecchi, meanwhile, is already a premier class podium finisher – and he only wants more. Where at times Marini lacked the speed of Bezzecchi last season, Bezzecchi lacked the consistency of Marini, so there was plenty to learn from both sides of the garage. Can Bezzecchi find that consistency to run at the front AND fight for podiums? He is only a sophomore too, so it’s an exciting year for fans to see how much further forward he can get in 2023.

GRESINI RACING MotoGP™: a new dark horse?

It was a difficult preseason for Fabio Di Giannantonio by the end as ‘Diggia’ crashed in the last test and had to miss a day. Before that though, steps forward had been made so his form could be interesting. On the other side of the garage though, Alex Marquez is about to start a mammoth season of his career…

The two-time World Champion has shown glimpses of brilliance in the premier class so far, but they came less and less frequently over a tough stint for rider and factory. Now it’s a new start on a new bike and that brings a whole new dynamic. First, he looks comfortable and quick, and ready to start bothering the podium battle. Second, it’s a pivotal season to deliver and show what he’s got – with a little more pressure added given the machine is also in the hands of a fair few fast riders. Can he do it? The signs so far look good, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him take more rostrums with a second factory. After all, he HAS been there before.

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING: Binder shines, Miller settles in

It’s a big year for KTM. Last season was a tougher one, despite those wins in the wet, and they don’t come racing for the mere chance of a podium. A lot of work has gone in over winter though, and there are some good signs coming – as well as some that have been there a while. Brad Binder’s ability to wring out the maximum once the lights go out may have chance to shine twice a weekend in 2023, AND the South African somehow pairs that with an ability to stay on more than most, suffering only one DNF last season. He was ninth in the test here but only half a tenth off Martin so don’t count him out… or bet against him getting his elbows out.

On the other side of the garage though, there’s a new face: Jack Miller. The Australian hasn’t set the timesheets on fire just yet, but gave his adaptation a solid 7 or 8/10 so far when asked at the test. With time we can expect more speed, as Miller has plenty of experience at the front and on the top step. That experience – and wins on two other bikes – also means he’s facing down Maverick Viñales for the chance to become the first rider to win with three factories in the MotoGP™ era. When will we start to see him taking those big steps forward? We’re about to find out.

APRILIA RACING: who’s the captain now?

Last season, Aleix Espargaro was known as the captain at Aprilia – not to be confused with Captain Aprilia, a character who likely exists in a whole other multiverse – and it looks like things are about to get even more interesting at the Noale factory. First, both he and teammate Maverick Viñales have two new riders on the same bike at RNF to contend with, and second, Viñales is now very, very quick.

Espargaro had an incredible 2022 with only one DNF, that maiden MotoGP™ win, a plethora of podiums and a challenge for the title. He already suffered a hurdle and had arm pump surgery after the test, but there’s no reason to believe he won’t be fighting at the front again. Remember that double overtake in Assen? That doesn’t disappear. But neither does the form Viñales has shown before, taking wins with two other factories, and he now appears to be on the pace if not, at times, setting it. Who will be steering the ship come summer break? And can Viñales take that coveted win on a third machine to make MotoGP™ history? Aprilia looked like the closest challengers to Ducati in testing before that final day, so let’s see what they’ve got.

REPSOL HONDA TEAM: secret weapons reloaded

Neither Repsol Honda Team rider needs much introduction, but let’s start with the new arrival: Joan Mir. Many expected a tougher time of it for Mir and Rins adapting to the Honda, but both have been in the ballpark and Mir was even quickest Honda at the test. With proven speed, Mir’s progress will be one to watch – as will that of Honda as the Japanese giant pushes to move back to the front. As we watch both, it’s worth remembering that World Championships are earned, they don’t fall from the sky.

And then there’s Marc Marquez. Eight-time World Champion, comeback king, and a rider often expected to summon that extra dash of magic, for good reason. He’s now back at full tilt and there are plenty of eyes on him as the season starts, and understandably. The last time Marquez was at full speed he was creating his own league, but what will happen now? It’s a tougher time for Honda, there’s work still to be done to get the RC213V on the pace of their rivals, and in testing Marquez said they’re still a few tenths off. But is the number 93 able to find them in the meantime? We can be sure of one thing: Marc Marquez doesn’t settle. It’s going to be an exciting season with him back in the mix, and it’s an intriguing first few races: Portimao, and then two tracks where the number 93 has previously proven the class of the field. Who will be leading the Championship come Jerez?

CRYPTODATA RNF MotoGP™ TEAM: the home hero & the sophomore

For Raul Fernandez, this is a big season. After a difficult and at times acrimonious 2022, he now has a new team, new bike and something to prove. So what can he do? He was P16 by the end of the test at Portimao but has also won here twice in the lower classes, and bothered the higher echelons of the timesheets a couple of times in preseason.

Meanwhile, Miguel Oliveira also starts a new adventure. He’s seemed upbeat in winter and split the factory Aprilia duo at the test, as well as showing some good pace throughout. Did we see the full hand from the Noale factory in preseason? It may well prove not, and there’s even more to come. We can also be confident that there will be plenty to come from Oliveira, a race winner in the wet and dry, as he will likely only get quicker as he adapts. First time out on home turf though, where can he slot in? He’s won here before.

LCR HONDA: Rins on factory pace

The timesheets on the final day of testing had Mir, Marc Marquez and Alex Rins tightly packed together in a trio of Hondas, and that bodes well. Rins won the last race of last season and if he wins this would equal Rossi’s 2004 feat, but that won’t be the aim. The number 42 is in sponge mode to understand his new LCR Honda Castrol machine, get the best from it and contribute to Honda’s journey back to the top. So far though? He looks like he’s settling in really rather well.

That puts a little more pressure on Takaaki Nakagami at LCR Honda Idemitsu, with the Japanese rider struggling to find form so far. After some injury struggles and a difficult stint though, it may well take some time – something he certainly has at least in the first part of the season. Can he get back to fighting for bigger hauls of points?

GASGAS FACTORY RACING TECH3: the veteran & the rookie

Pol Espargaro’s joyous dance on the bike at the Valencia test was arguably one of the snippets of the season: the pure delight at being back on the RC16, a bike he’s had a far bit of success on and one that seems to suit. It’s been a tougher one on the preseason timesheets since then, but it seems hard to tell what we should be expecting, or what the programme was. Espargaro was a key force in taking KTM to the top and now he’s charged with racing GASGAS to some good rewards, so stay tuned as he gets reacquainted!

Finally, and last but not least, Augusto Fernandez is now a MotoGP™ rider. After a journey from European Moto2™ to Moto2™, a dip in results and a fight back to being the king of the class last season, his CV is impressive. He doesn’t have any rivals for Rookie of the Year, but in some ways that add a challenge. Learning as much as possible and staying calm as he settles in will be key, and he’s shown some good speed so far at times… it just needs to come together.

SHOWTIME

22 contenders, one crown and the fastest motorcycle racing show on Earth… don’t miss it! Friday’s P1 starts at 10:45 before P2 at 15:00. FP3 then precedes qualifying on Saturday morning, which begins at 10:50 And for lights out, remember:

MotoGP™ Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT +1)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT +1)

See you there!

MotoGP™ TESTING: TOP 3 IN PORTIMAO

1 Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – Ducati – 1’38.771

2 Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) – Ducati – +0.110

3 Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) – Yamaha – +0.148

ICYMI: Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal schedule

Don’t miss the schedule for the first GP of the year, including the time schedule changes for 2023, as well as a host of special events at the season opener itself.

TIME SCHEDULE: GRANDE PREMIO TISSOT DE PORTUGAL

ICYMI: MotoGP™ to debut new theme music and opening titles

The sport begins a new era with all-new theme music composed exclusively for MotoGP™

Did you hear? MotoGP™ has new music AND new opening titles! The theme, composed exclusively for the sport, will debut just ahead of the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the premiere set for 11am CEST across social media on Thursday the 23rd of March. As MotoGP™ returns to the world stage, the heroes of the hour will be able to enjoy the perfect walkout music as they prepare to battle it out for the biggest crown on two wheels.
The music has been composed by Marco Beltrami, an Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning composer more usually found scoring some of the biggest films on the planet. With a career already spanning three decades and credits across a multitude of genres, Beltrami is the man behind the music for some of the most recognizable films and franchises in cinema – with more and more blockbusters added every year. Now, he’s also part of MotoGP™ history!

Check out the behind the scenes from our filming session for the new opening titles above, and read our full interview with Beltrami below!

INTERVIEW: MARCO BELTRAMI

Moto2™: Acosta heads in as favourite

By the looks of pre-season, the rider to beat in Moto2™ this weekend could likely prove Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo – pictured). He’s the new lap record holder at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, but it was close as Fermin Aldeguer (CAG Speed Up) was also into the 1:41s. Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) in third was likewise under the old lap record… but who has the legs over 21 laps? Tune in at 12:15 (GMT+1) to find out!

Rossi pipped Rueda in testing but who’ll rule the first race?

The Moto3™ test ended with Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse – pictured) setting a new lap record, with impressive rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) hot on his heels. Proven podium finisher David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), top returning 2022 finisher Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and veteran Romano Fenati (Rivacold Snipers Team) were next up, adding some serious firepower to the top five… but this is Moto3™! When the lights go out, can anyone pull away or will we have our first freight train showdown of the season? Tune in at 11:00 (GMT +1) on Sunday to see!

Don’t miss: There Can Be Only One

One to whet your appetite: get a glimpse behind the scenes of a record-breaking 2022 with the documentary series There Can Only Be One. And then, strap in for the weekend ahead as we prepare to start the showdown all over again!

Moto2: Acosta Tops Three-Day Test In Portugal

David Swarts

-

March 19, 2023

0

Moto2: Acosta Tops Three-Day Test In Portugal

2023_Portimao_Moto2_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_9
2023_Portimao_Moto3_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_9

AMA Supercross: Report And Results From Detroit

David Swarts

-

March 19, 2023

0

AMA Supercross: Report And Results From Detroit

Chase Sexton Takes Detroit Supercross Win on Dramatic Race Night

Hunter Lawrence Stretches 250SX Class Lead with Fifth Win of 2023

Detroit, Mich. – Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton won a Main Event filled with intense racing at Round 10 of the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross indoor stadium season.

Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb earned second place after the on-track battles had been settled in front of 49,817 race fans at Ford Field in Detroit. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac took home third place in a round that pays points for both the Supercross season and the inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship. In Round 6 of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class, Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence took his fifth win of the season.

Chase Sexton (23) battled forward from a mid-pack start to win a thrilling Detroit Supercross and take his second win of the year. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Red Bull KTM’s Aaron Plessinger grabbed the holeshot in the 450SX Class Main Event but Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo shot past down the first rhythm lane to take over the front spot. Cooper Webb held third with Eli Tomac and Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia behind. One and a half minutes into the 20-minute plus one lap race Plessinger reclaimed the lead with a blitz through the whoops. At about that same time, last week’s winner, Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen, reached sixth with Chase Sexton behind and on the move after a mid-pack start.

The racing was intense in the early laps with the front runners bunched up and trading positions back and forth. The only clear advantage was held by Plessinger. He’d only led a total of seven 450SX Class Main Event laps in his career prior to the Detroit gate drop, but as the points leaders battled behind him Plessinger pulled clear then steadily extended his lead. Five minutes into the race Plessinger was ahead by over three seconds. Tomac got around Webb for second while Barcia hounded to do the same and Sexton pushed to get around Barcia.

It seemed likely that the top three in points, Webb, Tomac, and Sexton, would break away and reel in Plessinger. But instead the KTM rider put even more real estate between himself and the pack while Barcia clawed his way up through it. Seven minutes into the race Barcia had reached second place and then set his sights on the win.

But then Sexton really went to work. Just after the race clock reached 11 minutes remaining, Sexton pushed past Webb to take third. A lap later he battled Barcia for second. The attack was quick, and Barcia’s counter was immediate; the riders came together. Sexton stayed up yet the impact threw Barcia off pace enough that Webb got around at the end of the following section.

Plessinger’s lead was over eight seconds and he looked untouchable. Meanwhile Tomac was working to hold fifth as Roczen was on his rear fender. Then Tomac got his own surge of speed and motored past Barcia to take over fourth place. Sexton gained on Plessinger only by tenths of a second as the race clock ticked down.

Plessinger held a comfortable lead when he made a critical and heartbreaking mistake. On the second-to-last lap of the race, he caught his foot on a rut and flew off the bike as it went airborne. Plessinger crashed hard, handing over what would have been his first 450SX Class win after leading the race for 20 laps.

Sexton took the win, his second of the season. Webb maintained the runner-up spot, and Tomac earned third place. The three points leaders on the race podium belied the thrills and twists of one of the most exciting races so far this season. After the race, Sexton was assessed a 7-point penalty for a red-cross-flag infraction, putting him seventeen points out of the title chase lead.

Hunter Lawrence (96) took his fifth win of the season and stretched his points lead to 35. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Round 6 of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class saw Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan grab the holeshot. Hunter Lawrence was quickly into the lead ahead of Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Jeremy Martin, Deegan, and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher. Lawrence soon pulled a small gap on the pack. Thrasher was into third quickly and applied pressure to Martin. Martin held strong for several laps with Thrasher looking for an opportunity to pass.

Just over four minutes into the 15-minute plus one lap race Thrasher got around Martin. Thrasher put the hammer down and slowly cut the gap to Lawrence from 4.2 seconds down to 3.6. But when the race reached the midpoint Lawrence responded, pulled the gap back to over four seconds, and never allowed Thrasher to regain any significant ground. Behind them, Deegan moved past Martin to take over third place. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Chris Blose held fifth at the checkers just ahead of Red Bull KTM’s Tom Vialle.

Lawrence’s win created some interesting statistics in comparison compared to his brother, Jett Lawrence. The two brothers are now tied on Supercross race starts, wins, and top five finishes. Hunter holds one more podium finish, yet Jett already holds a 250SX Class championship. The stats are especially interesting in that the brothers will race head-to-head twice this season in two upcoming East/West Showdown events.

The series returns to the west coast to drop the gate for Round 11 at Lumen Field in Seattle, Wash. The event pays points to both the Monster Energy Supercross season as well as to the brand-new SuperMotocross World Championship which culminates in two Playoff events and one Final event in September.

All 31 rounds of the SuperMotocross League are streamed live on Peacock; select rounds are also broadcast on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. International viewers can catch the action at SuperMotocross.tv. For race highlight videos, the full 31-round SuperMotocross schedule, results, news, and ticket sales please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.

450SX Class podium (racers from left) Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, and Cooper Webb. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results

1. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda

2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM

3. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha

4. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS

5. Ken Roczen, Mattstedt, Ger., Suzuki

6. Christian Craig, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna

7. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., KTM

8. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki

9. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki

10. Josh Hill, Huntersville, NC, KTM

450SX Class Championship Standings

1. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (225)

2. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (222)

3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (208)

4. Ken Roczen, Mattstedt, Ger., Suzuki (182)

5. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (180)

6. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS (174)

7. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (164)

8. Christian Craig, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (136)

9. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (107)

10. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., KTM (103)

250SX Class podium (racers from left) Haiden Deegan, Hunter Lawrence, and Nate Thrasher. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Results

1. Hunter Lawrence, Landsborough, Aus., Honda

2. Nate Thrasher, Livingston, Tenn., Yamaha

3. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha

4. Jeremy Martin, Rochester, Minn., Yamaha

5. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki

6. Tom Vialle, Avignon, France, KTM

7. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda

8. Coty Schock, Dover, Del., Honda

9. Henry Miller, Rochester, Minn., Honda

10. Michael Hicks, Fenton, Mo., Honda

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

1. Hunter Lawrence, Landsborough, Aus., (151)

2. Nate Thrasher, Livingston, Tenn., Yamaha (116)

3. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (111)

4. Jeremy Martin, Rochester, Minn., Yamaha (109)

5. Max Anstie, Newbury, Eng., Honda (104)

6. Jordon Smith, Ochlocknee, Ga., Yamaha (92)

7. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki (88)

8. Tom Vialle, Avignon, France, KTM (85)

9. Coty Schock, Dover, Del., Honda (72)

10. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda (67)

MotoGP Analysis: The Race To Catch Ducati, In The March Issue

Trudy Ulrich

-

March 19, 2023

0

MotoGP Analysis: The Race To Catch Ducati, In The March Issue

Featured In The March 2023 Issue:

Ducati has led MotoGP technologically for the last few seasons, with the fastest engine, aided by game-changing downforce aerodynamics. This year is significant because it’s the first time that every factory on the grid is using ground-effect aero, 50 years after it arrived in Formula 1 cars.

Other changes in MotoGP this year are Saturday’s half-distance sprint races and the planned introduction of tire-minimum pressure regulations. This rule, which could have a major effect on the racing, will come into force at the fourth race, at Jerez—as
long as the teams all agree to it…

—Who’s Doing What In the Race To Catch Ducati, by Mat Oxley

Ducati’s four MotoGP rivals—Aprilia, Honda, KTM and Yamaha—have a difficult target: To catch the flying Desmosedici. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley breaks down what each manufacturer is bringing to the track to do battle with the Bologna machines—and where each needs to level up its game. Get ready for the 2023 MotoGP season with the inside analysis—it’s in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

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

PREVIEW the March 2023 Issue of Roadracing World!

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

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

—

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

—

MotoAmerica: Westby Racing’s Wing Warrior Fan Program Returning

David Swarts

-

March 18, 2023

0

MotoAmerica: Westby Racing’s Wing Warrior Fan Program Returning

Westby Racing Announces 2023 Wing Warriors Fan Membership Program

Tulsa, OK – Westby Racing is proud to announce the continuation of its highly successful Wing Warriors Fan Membership Program for 2023.

“This will be the seventh consecutive season that we have offered the Wing Warriors program,” team owner Tryg Westby commented. “It was originally conceived as a way to recognize and reward our most loyal fans, and we’re delighted to be able to continue it in 2023.”

Westby Racing's Mathew Scholtz with a young Wing Warrior. Photo courtesy Westby Racing. — Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz with a young Wing Warrior. Photo courtesy Westby Racing.

How To Become A Wing Warrior

The first step to becoming a Wing Warrior is simply to be a fan of Westby Racing. The next step is to make a financial commitment of $50 per year in exchange for special Wing Warriors fan membership and memorabilia, which includes the following:

• Wing Warriors Numbered Membership Card

• Wing Warriors Numbered Membership Certificate

• Wing Warriors Lanyard

• Wing Warriors Embroidered Patch

• 4” Wing Warriors Sticker (Renewing Wing Warriors receive a 4” Westby Ball Logo Sticker and 6” Wing Warriors Sticker)

• Wing Warriors Four-Color Enameled Pin

• Wing Warriors Members-Only T-Shirt

• 10% Discount On Yoshimura Products

• Sponsored Club Racer Pricing at Superbike Unlimited

• Wing Warriors Season Access Pass (Westby Racing Paddock Area)

• Wing Warriors Special Photo Opportunity

Renewing Wing Warriors will receive updated credentials, plus, all Wing Warriors who come to the track on MotoAmerica race weekends and show their Membership Card and/or Season Access Pass will receive special items as additional tokens of appreciation.

For more information about the Wing Warriors Fan Membership Program, visit http://www.westbyracing.com/wing-warriors

And, for fans who are not quite ready to become full-fledged Wing Warriors Members, per-race Access Passes to the Westby Racing Paddock Area will be available for purchase separately at each MotoAmerica round.

Let’s Go Racing!

The Westby Racing team, featuring MotoAmerica Superbike rider Mathew Scholtz, will make their 2023 debut at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta on April 21-23.

For more updates on Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, visit http://www.WestbyRacing.com

Also, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media site.

The 50th Anniversary Of Yamaha TZ Racebikes, In The March Issue

Trudy Ulrich

-

March 18, 2023

0

The 50th Anniversary Of Yamaha TZ Racebikes, In The March Issue

Featured In the March 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

“For me, it’s tough to realize that it’s been 50 years since Yamaha introduced the most famous and successful series of over-the-counter racebikes, the TZs! With its various models, the TZ range changed the face of club, National and International road racing for 35 years. If you dig back to Yamaha’s first production road racer, the air-cooled 250cc TD1, the company has supplied racers with competitive for-sale machines for 45 years. While some of us at the time complained of Yamaha domination, we have to acknowledge the company’s dedication to our sport…”

“Historic Racebike Illustrations: The 50th Anniversary of Yamaha TZ Racebikes,” By Mick Ofield

There were times when it looked like a Yamaha Cup series on the grids of races around the world, but that simply reflects the company’s commitment to road racing at all levels. Half a century ago, Yamaha introduced its TZ series of customer racebikes—machines that were genuinely competitive at the International and National level, motorcycles that made the dream a reality for generations of aspiring racers. Read about their history—it’s in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

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

PREVIEW the March 2023 Issue of Roadracing World!

—

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

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

—

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

—

Andreani USA Holding Free Public Open House March 18

David Swarts

-

March 17, 2023

0

Andreani USA Holding Free Public Open House March 18

Public Invitation to Andreani USA Open House

Please Join Us!

Andreani USA would like to invite you to our first open house at our new US distribution facility in Hendersonville, North Carolina on Saturday, March 18.

We’ll have tours of our facility, demonstrations of the products we make to support race teams and Powersports and MTB dealers, free pizza from Tin Can Pizzeria (wood fired Pizza), free soft drinks, great bicycle and motorcycle displays, and live music by the “Baggage Brothers.”

Our founder, Giuseppe Andreani, will do a special toast to our new US operations at noon.

Our neighbor, German motorcycle products distributor Wunderlich America, will also be having an open house that day.

Please join us between 11am and 5pm to help us celebrate at our new facility.

Andreani USA

137 E Central Street

Hendersonville NC, 28792

828-435-0125

Open house 11-5pm March 18

Free pizza from noon to 2pm

Moto2: Canet Quickest On Day One Of Portimao Test

David Swarts

-

March 17, 2023

0

Moto2: Canet Quickest On Day One Of Portimao Test

2023_Portimao_Moto2_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_3
2023_Portimao_Moto3_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_3

American Sanchez Racing In Spain’s RFME ESBK PreMoto3 Championship

David Swarts

-

March 17, 2023

0

American Sanchez Racing In Spain’s RFME ESBK PreMoto3 Championship

American Mikey Lou Sanchez is changing teams and series for 2023.

After taking a race win and finishing sixth in the 2022 RFME ESBK Moto4 National Championship in Spain, the 12-year-old from Texas is moving up to the 2023 RFME ESBK PreMoto3 Spanish National Championship with MRE Talent Team, which won the title last season.

Sanchez will ride a BeOn PreMoto3 racebike, which is powered by a 40-horsepower Yamaha YZ250F engine.

“I’m very excited to race this class,” said Sanchez. “It’s a big step up, but I’m ready, real ready!”

Sanchez is sponsored by Roadway Traffic Control, HJC Helmets, San Marcos Iron Doors, Williams Custom Painting, Texas Motorcycle Academy, Moto Liberty, Harris Hill Flattrackers, 212 Decals, Southern Adrenaline, Corsa Werks, Paul Stamper, Mark Niemi, Ben Fondu, Stacy Pawelek, and Theo Bick.

MotoAmerica: Teagg Hobbs’ Journey To A Professional Supersport Ride (Video)

March 20, 2023

Teagg Hobbs (79). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

@gasonbikeup-motorcycles has a great lineup coming your way. Factory racers, top motorcycle industry pros, suspension gurus, insightful riding technique breakdowns, explanations of the physics of motorcycle riding and design, stories and paths for a successful track day or racing career and more.

This video tells a tale of how one rider went from club racing all the way to a seat on one of the top teams in MotoAmerica – Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki (that’s a mouthful!).

If you’re interested in road racing or track days, this video is for you! You’ll learn about his journey from beginner rider to factory MotoAmerica Supersport rider, as well as his plans for the 2023 Daytona 200 and more.

I hope you enjoy the video and that it helps you find a path to your own motorcycle racing dreams! Teagg shares not only his story, but we also talk about some of this things that helped him find the support he needed along the way. We also dig into his Daytona 200 story in 2023.

If you know an aspiring racer, Teagg has a great story to tell! Have feedback or suggestions? We’d love to hear from you! Check out our website at https://gasonbikeup.com or email us at [email protected].

MotoGP: 2023 Season Starts This Coming Weekend In Portugal

March 20, 2023

Action from the MotoGP race in Portugal in 2022 with Fabio Quartararo (20) leading a group of riders. Photo courtesy Dorna.

22 riders. One crown. Ready for more MotoGP™ than ever?

The new era dawns as the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal sets in motion the biggest season ever

Monday, 20 March 2023

This is it. 22 riders, 11 teams, 21 MotoGP™ Sprints and 21 Grand Prix races. More MotoGP™ than ever before, and the first helping is right around the corner. Where? The rollercoaster: the one and only Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. When? This weekend, with media activities on Thursday 23rd of March before track action from the 24th. Friday decides Q1 and direct Q2 entry for MotoGP™. On Saturday the Sprint lands. And on Sunday? 25 laps decide who takes the first 25-point haul of the season. One reigning Champion, 22 contenders and the world watching on.

So here we go… in the team order we left off with in testing!

DUCATI LENOVO TEAM: Bagnaia & the Beast

The reigning Champion always has a target on his back, and Francesco Bagnaia hasn’t shied away from that in choosing to run the number 1 either. Neither has his pace and form so far in testing, with a new lap record and sweltering Sprint simulation raising some eyebrows in pitlane during the recent test. After turbulent beginnings to 2022, can Bagnaia start this season on the front foot? And if he does, how will he have to adapt to being the hunted rather than the rider hunting down that record deficit in 2022?

The other side of the garage looks a little different this season though. After already duelling it out with Bagnaia a few times last year, Enea Bastianini is now the call coming from inside the house. Can he make his presence more than just a shiver of nerves and really take Bagnaia on? In Portimao, he’s not got the best record barring good memories from his Moto2™ Championship win, so we may need to be patient. But then comes Argentina, and then comes Texas – where the Beast already ruled last season. We can also be sure that Bastianini won’t even start the battle with the gloves on.

PRIMA PRAMAC RACING: show us your hand

Now a true Ducati veteran, Johann Zarco spent a lot of preseason with his head down, testing for the factory. Then came the last day of track action and the Frenchman said that was his day to work on his bike and setup… and he shot straight up into second behind Bagnaia. That’s a warning signal for all, as is a previous podium finish at Portimao. Is that a reflection of long term form?

For Jorge Martin, meanwhile, the track may not show off the best of the number 89. He suffered a big crash there in 2021 too. He was eighth in the test, and he’ll want more than that on the first grid of the year. And maybe we’ll just need a little patience. Most agree Martin is tipped for serious success, and he’s already a race winner… could it be Argentina, where he fought for the win last year, where we really get to see that explosive speed searing through? Or has he got more in the locker for Portimao too?

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP™: Quartararo back in business

The tale of two riders continued for Yamaha in preseason, but the tale of top speed seems to have a happier ending for the moment. The speed traps made for good reading, but when the Iwata marque put it all together for a hot lap on new tyres in Sepang… nothing happened. That was a brief worry, but it seems Fabio Quartararo certainly figured it out by the end of the Portimao test as he ended it in third, going back on some aero to maintain other steps forward. Threat: reloaded.

Quartararo is a two-time winner at Portimao too, and will be pushing his limits to make sure that becomes three. For Franco Morbidelli, meanwhile, there’s still a step to be found, with the Italian ending the test seven tenths off his teammate. Can he find more this weekend?

MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM: Marini & Bezzecchi step up

Luca Marini was the king of preseason in Valencia and Sepang, with the Italian putting on quite a show – and showing how much of a weapon the GP22 remains, if anyone needed proof. Marini’s MO throughout his career has been building on what he’s learned to take another step forward, at his pace, and that hasn’t disappeared in MotoGP™. It also appears that his most recent step takes him to to the podium fight – so can he take that first rostrum soon?

Marco Bezzecchi, meanwhile, is already a premier class podium finisher – and he only wants more. Where at times Marini lacked the speed of Bezzecchi last season, Bezzecchi lacked the consistency of Marini, so there was plenty to learn from both sides of the garage. Can Bezzecchi find that consistency to run at the front AND fight for podiums? He is only a sophomore too, so it’s an exciting year for fans to see how much further forward he can get in 2023.

GRESINI RACING MotoGP™: a new dark horse?

It was a difficult preseason for Fabio Di Giannantonio by the end as ‘Diggia’ crashed in the last test and had to miss a day. Before that though, steps forward had been made so his form could be interesting. On the other side of the garage though, Alex Marquez is about to start a mammoth season of his career…

The two-time World Champion has shown glimpses of brilliance in the premier class so far, but they came less and less frequently over a tough stint for rider and factory. Now it’s a new start on a new bike and that brings a whole new dynamic. First, he looks comfortable and quick, and ready to start bothering the podium battle. Second, it’s a pivotal season to deliver and show what he’s got – with a little more pressure added given the machine is also in the hands of a fair few fast riders. Can he do it? The signs so far look good, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him take more rostrums with a second factory. After all, he HAS been there before.

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING: Binder shines, Miller settles in

It’s a big year for KTM. Last season was a tougher one, despite those wins in the wet, and they don’t come racing for the mere chance of a podium. A lot of work has gone in over winter though, and there are some good signs coming – as well as some that have been there a while. Brad Binder’s ability to wring out the maximum once the lights go out may have chance to shine twice a weekend in 2023, AND the South African somehow pairs that with an ability to stay on more than most, suffering only one DNF last season. He was ninth in the test here but only half a tenth off Martin so don’t count him out… or bet against him getting his elbows out.

On the other side of the garage though, there’s a new face: Jack Miller. The Australian hasn’t set the timesheets on fire just yet, but gave his adaptation a solid 7 or 8/10 so far when asked at the test. With time we can expect more speed, as Miller has plenty of experience at the front and on the top step. That experience – and wins on two other bikes – also means he’s facing down Maverick Viñales for the chance to become the first rider to win with three factories in the MotoGP™ era. When will we start to see him taking those big steps forward? We’re about to find out.

APRILIA RACING: who’s the captain now?

Last season, Aleix Espargaro was known as the captain at Aprilia – not to be confused with Captain Aprilia, a character who likely exists in a whole other multiverse – and it looks like things are about to get even more interesting at the Noale factory. First, both he and teammate Maverick Viñales have two new riders on the same bike at RNF to contend with, and second, Viñales is now very, very quick.

Espargaro had an incredible 2022 with only one DNF, that maiden MotoGP™ win, a plethora of podiums and a challenge for the title. He already suffered a hurdle and had arm pump surgery after the test, but there’s no reason to believe he won’t be fighting at the front again. Remember that double overtake in Assen? That doesn’t disappear. But neither does the form Viñales has shown before, taking wins with two other factories, and he now appears to be on the pace if not, at times, setting it. Who will be steering the ship come summer break? And can Viñales take that coveted win on a third machine to make MotoGP™ history? Aprilia looked like the closest challengers to Ducati in testing before that final day, so let’s see what they’ve got.

REPSOL HONDA TEAM: secret weapons reloaded

Neither Repsol Honda Team rider needs much introduction, but let’s start with the new arrival: Joan Mir. Many expected a tougher time of it for Mir and Rins adapting to the Honda, but both have been in the ballpark and Mir was even quickest Honda at the test. With proven speed, Mir’s progress will be one to watch – as will that of Honda as the Japanese giant pushes to move back to the front. As we watch both, it’s worth remembering that World Championships are earned, they don’t fall from the sky.

And then there’s Marc Marquez. Eight-time World Champion, comeback king, and a rider often expected to summon that extra dash of magic, for good reason. He’s now back at full tilt and there are plenty of eyes on him as the season starts, and understandably. The last time Marquez was at full speed he was creating his own league, but what will happen now? It’s a tougher time for Honda, there’s work still to be done to get the RC213V on the pace of their rivals, and in testing Marquez said they’re still a few tenths off. But is the number 93 able to find them in the meantime? We can be sure of one thing: Marc Marquez doesn’t settle. It’s going to be an exciting season with him back in the mix, and it’s an intriguing first few races: Portimao, and then two tracks where the number 93 has previously proven the class of the field. Who will be leading the Championship come Jerez?

CRYPTODATA RNF MotoGP™ TEAM: the home hero & the sophomore

For Raul Fernandez, this is a big season. After a difficult and at times acrimonious 2022, he now has a new team, new bike and something to prove. So what can he do? He was P16 by the end of the test at Portimao but has also won here twice in the lower classes, and bothered the higher echelons of the timesheets a couple of times in preseason.

Meanwhile, Miguel Oliveira also starts a new adventure. He’s seemed upbeat in winter and split the factory Aprilia duo at the test, as well as showing some good pace throughout. Did we see the full hand from the Noale factory in preseason? It may well prove not, and there’s even more to come. We can also be confident that there will be plenty to come from Oliveira, a race winner in the wet and dry, as he will likely only get quicker as he adapts. First time out on home turf though, where can he slot in? He’s won here before.

LCR HONDA: Rins on factory pace

The timesheets on the final day of testing had Mir, Marc Marquez and Alex Rins tightly packed together in a trio of Hondas, and that bodes well. Rins won the last race of last season and if he wins this would equal Rossi’s 2004 feat, but that won’t be the aim. The number 42 is in sponge mode to understand his new LCR Honda Castrol machine, get the best from it and contribute to Honda’s journey back to the top. So far though? He looks like he’s settling in really rather well.

That puts a little more pressure on Takaaki Nakagami at LCR Honda Idemitsu, with the Japanese rider struggling to find form so far. After some injury struggles and a difficult stint though, it may well take some time – something he certainly has at least in the first part of the season. Can he get back to fighting for bigger hauls of points?

GASGAS FACTORY RACING TECH3: the veteran & the rookie

Pol Espargaro’s joyous dance on the bike at the Valencia test was arguably one of the snippets of the season: the pure delight at being back on the RC16, a bike he’s had a far bit of success on and one that seems to suit. It’s been a tougher one on the preseason timesheets since then, but it seems hard to tell what we should be expecting, or what the programme was. Espargaro was a key force in taking KTM to the top and now he’s charged with racing GASGAS to some good rewards, so stay tuned as he gets reacquainted!

Finally, and last but not least, Augusto Fernandez is now a MotoGP™ rider. After a journey from European Moto2™ to Moto2™, a dip in results and a fight back to being the king of the class last season, his CV is impressive. He doesn’t have any rivals for Rookie of the Year, but in some ways that add a challenge. Learning as much as possible and staying calm as he settles in will be key, and he’s shown some good speed so far at times… it just needs to come together.

SHOWTIME

22 contenders, one crown and the fastest motorcycle racing show on Earth… don’t miss it! Friday’s P1 starts at 10:45 before P2 at 15:00. FP3 then precedes qualifying on Saturday morning, which begins at 10:50 And for lights out, remember:

MotoGP™ Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT +1)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT +1)

See you there!

MotoGP™ TESTING: TOP 3 IN PORTIMAO

1 Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – Ducati – 1’38.771

2 Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) – Ducati – +0.110

3 Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) – Yamaha – +0.148

ICYMI: Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal schedule

Don’t miss the schedule for the first GP of the year, including the time schedule changes for 2023, as well as a host of special events at the season opener itself.

TIME SCHEDULE: GRANDE PREMIO TISSOT DE PORTUGAL

ICYMI: MotoGP™ to debut new theme music and opening titles

The sport begins a new era with all-new theme music composed exclusively for MotoGP™

Did you hear? MotoGP™ has new music AND new opening titles! The theme, composed exclusively for the sport, will debut just ahead of the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the premiere set for 11am CEST across social media on Thursday the 23rd of March. As MotoGP™ returns to the world stage, the heroes of the hour will be able to enjoy the perfect walkout music as they prepare to battle it out for the biggest crown on two wheels.
The music has been composed by Marco Beltrami, an Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning composer more usually found scoring some of the biggest films on the planet. With a career already spanning three decades and credits across a multitude of genres, Beltrami is the man behind the music for some of the most recognizable films and franchises in cinema – with more and more blockbusters added every year. Now, he’s also part of MotoGP™ history!

Check out the behind the scenes from our filming session for the new opening titles above, and read our full interview with Beltrami below!

INTERVIEW: MARCO BELTRAMI

Moto2™: Acosta heads in as favourite

By the looks of pre-season, the rider to beat in Moto2™ this weekend could likely prove Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo – pictured). He’s the new lap record holder at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, but it was close as Fermin Aldeguer (CAG Speed Up) was also into the 1:41s. Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) in third was likewise under the old lap record… but who has the legs over 21 laps? Tune in at 12:15 (GMT+1) to find out!

Rossi pipped Rueda in testing but who’ll rule the first race?

The Moto3™ test ended with Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse – pictured) setting a new lap record, with impressive rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) hot on his heels. Proven podium finisher David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), top returning 2022 finisher Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and veteran Romano Fenati (Rivacold Snipers Team) were next up, adding some serious firepower to the top five… but this is Moto3™! When the lights go out, can anyone pull away or will we have our first freight train showdown of the season? Tune in at 11:00 (GMT +1) on Sunday to see!

Don’t miss: There Can Be Only One

One to whet your appetite: get a glimpse behind the scenes of a record-breaking 2022 with the documentary series There Can Only Be One. And then, strap in for the weekend ahead as we prepare to start the showdown all over again!

Moto2: Acosta Tops Three-Day Test In Portugal

March 19, 2023

Pedro Acosta (37). Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Ajo.

2023_Portimao_Moto2_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_9
2023_Portimao_Moto3_OFICIAL_TEST_combined_session_9

AMA Supercross: Report And Results From Detroit

March 19, 2023

The Detroit Supercross kept race fans on their feet with a 450SX Class Main Event filled with multiple surprises and passes, as well as a dramatic late-race crash. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc.