American Flat Track: Mees Leads By One Point Heading To Black Hills HM

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

American Flat Track: Mees Leads By One Point Heading To Black Hills HM

Progressive AFT Title Fight Sturgis Bound for Black Hills Half-Mile

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 2, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is set to showcase its thrilling Grand National Championship title fight before a rapt audience of diehard motorcycle enthusiasts at this weekend’s The City of Sturgis Black Hills Half-Mile presented by Black Hills Harley-Davidson at Black Hills Speedway in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Sunday, August 6.

The high-profile event will be featured at this year’s 83rd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – which is expected to draw more than 500,000 attendees – and comes just a week removed from an explosive Peoria TT that had the potential to completely upset a raging Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle championship battle.

Ultimately, however, the dramatic affair resulted in just a three-point swing at the top of the order. That was enough, however, to move reigning class king Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750) back into first, one point ahead of his young challenger, Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT).

While still very much either riders’ championship to win, the outcome in Peoria could still prove pivotal. Rather than looking to gain back ground at Black Hills Speedway, Mees is now operating from a position of strength at a venue he’s won at three times in the past (‘15, ‘17, and ‘18).

That, along with his status as the winningest Half-Miler in the history of the series, makes Mees the pre-race favorite coming into the weekend. However, Daniels did manage to upset Mees the last time the two squared off on a Half-Mile with his 0.095-second victory at the Drag Specialties Bridgeport Half-Mile a week-and-a-half-back.

Last year’s Black Hills Half-Mile saw its Mission SuperTwins Main rained out, but the lead-up to that point hinted at a clash featuring not just Mees and Daniels, but also Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 790 Duke) and last weekend’s winner, JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT).

Due to the inclement weather, Bauman actually stands as the most recent winner of the race, having captured victory at Black Hills Speedway in 2019.

Several others have the potential to play the role of spoiler this weekend while sorting out their own championship disputes. Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) currently holds a small lead over Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) as they contend for fifth in the standings along with bragging rights as the top independent Indian.

Meanwhile, the likes of Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing/2 Wheelz KTM 790 Duke), Kolby Carlile (No. 36 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07), Ben Lowe (No. 25 Rackley Racing/Mission Foods Indian FTR750), and Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) will continue to look for ways to make waves.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

While the commanding title lead of defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champ Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) and incredible second half of Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) have naturally made them the focus of attention, Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) has emerged a genuine force to be reckoned with.

Brunner has climbed to second in the championship order with three top-two finishes over his last four attempts, including his first victory of the season this past weekend in Peoria. The Estenson Racing pilot now carries that momentum into Black Hills Speedway where he won at a year ago.

Considering Kopp’s Half-Mile chops and Drane’s current form, they are obvious contenders for victory as well. Others to keep tabs on are the Turner Honda Racing trio of Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R). Saathoff is less than ten points removed from second in the championship having already netted seven podiums on the season, while Mischler and Lowe went 2-3 here a year ago.

Fourth place in last year’s race went to Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), who showed renewed speed with a run to fifth in Peoria.

Meanwhile, there are a pair of former Black Hills Half-Mile winners who are itching to make similar resurgences in Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F) and Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450), the duo having won here in 2018 and 2019, respectively.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at the track on Sunday as well, including numerous vendors and dedicated motorcycle parking.

General Admission Grandstand tickets are just $25 (kids 12 and under $5), with Premium General Admission Grandstand tickets only $10 more. VIP tickets, which offer access to an exclusive indoor viewing area and include food and beverage, are $125.

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

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/black-hills-half-mile-73564 to reserve your seats today.

Gates will open for fans at 3:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT).

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

FOX Sports coverage of theThe City of Sturgis Black Hills Half-Mile presented by Black Hills Harley-Davidson, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 13, at 11:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. PT).

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

MRA: Hendry, Rizzo Secure Their First Premier Class Wins Of 2023

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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MRA: Hendry, Rizzo Secure Their First Premier Class Wins Of 2023

Hendry and Rizzo Dominate at Pueblo Motorsports Park

Pueblo, CO – The fifth race of the 2023 MRA Championship Series took place at Pueblo Motorsports Park over the weekend of July 29-30^th on their 2.2 mile road course. Pueblo, Colorado is known for its hot and windy climate this time of year, and this weekend was no exception. Racers endured temperatures nearing 100 degrees and winds guts up to 20 mph throughout the weekend, which posed a significant challenge for some racers.

The Race of the Rockies Qualifying on Sunday was conducted under decent conditions as temperatures had not yet risen to the 90’s. Ray Thornton, staying true to his form, claimed pole position with a best time of (1:31.11) followed by James Wilkerson (1:31.23) and Brad Hendry (1:31.55).

The start of RoR did not go well for Thornton as his bike’s power shut off within 20 feet of the launch. Thornton power cycled his bike multiple times and finally got it going, but at this point he was 54 seconds behind the leader. Wilkerson led the opening lap and was looking very strong, but midway through lap two a mechanical issue caused him to retire from the race. This opened the door for Mike Applegate to take the lead at the end of the second lap, in close pursuit was Hendry and Jason Martinez. By lap three Hendry was all over Applegate and executed a perfect pass to take the lead. Once out in front Hendry put his head down and started clicking off consistent lap times in the 1:30’s and ultimately maintained his lead for the remainder of the race. Thornton was able to carve his way through the field, passing seven riders, which helped him salvage a few championship points. Hendry took his first RoR win of the season, with Applegate coming in second and Martinez in third. Despite coming in seventh place, Thornton maintains a sizable lead in the RoR championship.

In Race of the Rockies GTU, Salvatore Rizzo got an excellent start and led the opening four laps. Jared Dear, last year’s RoR GTU class champion, made it back for his first race of the year and was in close pursuit of Rizzo. By lap five, Dear took the lead and did his best to hold off a determined Rizzo. However, on lap 13, Rizzo seized his opportunity and took the lead back from Dear. Once out in front, Rizzo was able to pull a small gap on Dear and maintain his lead for the remainder of the race. Further back in the field, Tyrel Diekmann was sitting in a comfortable third, but Dennis Stowers was chipping away at the gap every lap. By lap 13 Stowers passed Diekmann for third place and managed to hold him off until the checkered flag. Rizzo secured his first RoR GTU win of the season, and with only two rounds remaining in the championship, he is within striking distance of Ken Yee’s points lead. Rounding out the podium was Dear in second, and Stowers in third.

Next up, the MRA heads to High Plains Raceway in Byers, CO for Round 6 on August 26-27 for a full weekend of racing including the SuperStreet event on Saturday afternoon. SuperStreet gives street riders the opportunity to experience motorcycle road racing with minimal cost and preparation. See https://www.mra-racing.org/superstreet/superstreet-information for details.

The MRA welcomes racers from other clubs across the nation. If you’re a currently licensed racer, we have several reciprocity agreements in place along with very competitive pricing on license & entries to our 20 classes. Click here for MRA membership & entry information.

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.

RRW 2023 MRA Final Results Round 5

BMW Motorrad Days Americas Debuting At Barber Motorsports Park

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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BMW Motorrad Days Americas Debuting At Barber Motorsports Park

BMW Motorrad USA announces BMW Motorrad Days Americas.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – Aug. 3, 2023…BMW Motorrad USA is proud to announce that, for the very first time, BMW Motorrad Days will be celebrated in the United States, and will be held in partnership with the Barber Vintage Festival in Birmingham, AL. Taking place from October 6-8, 2023, BMW Motorrad Days Americas will be a celebration of the storied 100 Year history of BMW motorcycles. BMW Motorrad looks forward to celebrating its very special centenary with not only BMW fans but with all motorcycling fans from all over the Americas. It will be a weekend not to be missed!

In December 1922, BMW chief designer Max Friz put the first full-scale BMW motorcycle on the drawing board. At its heart was a 494 cc, 8.5 hp, air-cooled two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine. The first BMW motorcycle, the R 32, was unveiled in September 1923 at the German Motor Show in Berlin. Production began that same month in an area of the BMW engine works on the edge of the Munich’s Oberwiesenfeld airfield. Just 56 motorcycles were built that first year. Those humble beginnings of BMW motorcycle production launched an unprecedented success story that would span a century.

For 15 years, thousands of fans from around the world have traveled to Germany to celebrate BMW Motorrad Days and finally, during this important year, the fans from all over the Americas will have an event of their own where they can gather to celebrate with friends, old and new.

“We are so very excited to have the opportunity to celebrate our 100 Year anniversary with our friends at the Barber Motorsports Park,” said Luciana Francisco, Head of Marketing and Product, BMW Motorrad USA. “After all, you only get to celebrate such a significant milestone once and you have to do it right. There is no better event than the Barber Vintage Festival to co-host the first ever BMW Motorrad Days Americas. We look forward to celebrating our centenary with the extended BMW enthusiast family from Canada to Argentina and from all of the amazing places in between.”

The Barber Vintage Festival, a three-day motorcycle festival, is one of the largest vintage festivals in the country. Each year, this event brings 65,000+ motorcycle fans from around the country.

“We are honored to have the first ever BMW Motorrad Days Americas take place at Barber Vintage Festival,” said George Dennis, President of ZOOM Motorsports, the exclusive promotor of Barber Motorsports Park. “This event is a must-see for any motorcycle fans or Birmingham residents.”

The three-day festival will include vintage racing, a fan zone with vendors and entertainment, a swap meet with hundreds of vendors selling vintage motorcycles and parts, demo rides, training experiences, family fun and of course, the world-famous Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

Experiences will include:

Fan Zone: Product display, beer garden, live music, food trucks, partner displays, merchandise store, kid zone
Ride Experiences: Demo Rides of the latest motorcycles, Off Road demos led by BMW Performance Center, Electric demos with the CE 04 and more.
Stunt Shows: Chris McNeil performing awe inspiring stunts all weekend! (TBD)
Ride in Bike Show: Vintage and Custom motorcycles with special awards
Barber Museum Scavenger Hunt: explore the museum to find historic highlights
DoubleR Fest: Register to ride on-track with Nate Kern during DoubleR Fest, Monday Oct 9^th. You do not have to ride a BMW motorcycle, but seats are limited so register now! https://www.kerntrackdays.com/event-details/doublerfest-barber.

Discounted Festival Tickets through BMW Motorrad USA

Attendees can purchase Barber Vintage Festival tickets at a 20% discount by registering through BMW Motorrad Days Americas and they may pre-register for BMW Demo Rides by visiting the following link https://mdaysamericas.bmwmotorcyclesevents.com.

Event Information and Links

Dates: October 6-8

Location: Barber Motorsports Park

Address: 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds, AL 35094

BMW Motorrad Days Americas Information

https://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/en/experience/events/BMW-Motorrad-Days-Americas.html#/section-bmw-motorrad-100-years

Barber Vintage Festival Information

https://www.barbermuseum.org/barber-vintage-festival/

BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

www.bmwgroup.com and www.bmwmotorcycles.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BMWMotorradUSA

Twitter: www.facebook.com/BMWMotorradUSA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@bmwmotorrad

WorldSBK: Jerez Hosting 2023 Season Finale

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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WorldSBK: Jerez Hosting 2023 Season Finale

Jerez to host the final round of the 2023 WorldSBK season

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship will be back at the iconic Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto for the 12th and final round of the 2023 season, on October 27th-29th. The Prometeon Spanish Round will replace the previously scheduled curtain-closer in Argentina.

The presence of Spain in WorldSBK began at Jerez in 1990 with the opening round of that season – the Championship returned to the Andalusian venue on several occasions – in the mid-2010s and more recently from 2019 to 2021. The Spanish venue has hosted 21 WorldSBK races in its history, with the latest held in September 2021.

With this latest update, the WorldSBK and WorldSSP seasons will conclude their respective campaigns at Jerez at the end of October. The WorldSSP300 season will finish as planned with the Pirelli Portuguese Round at Portimao from the 29th September to 1st October.

Arturo Bernal – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Junta of Andalusia:

“Our partnership with the FIM Superbike World Championship is long and lasting. We are happy to be able to announce this final event, which will surely attract many racing fans to the Circuito de Jerez. There is no better place than Andalusia to host this race. Our region is a guarantee of success in organising major sporting events. I want to thank the strong collaboration between the Junta de Andalucía, the Jerez City Council, and Dorna to give even more relevance to a city that is already known throughout the world for its link to motorsports.”

María José García Pelayo – Mayor, Jerez de la Frontera:

“It represents a great opportunity for Jerez and for the Circuit to see the return of WorldSBK. Jerez is once again positioning itself as a world motorcycling reference, as an emblematic circuit for riders, teams, and fans. A circuit that, with the return of WorldSBK, begins a new period of momentum. Hosting the round initially planned in Argentina at Jerez is a milestone, thanks to the collaboration of the City Council, the Junta de Andalusia, and Dorna. All three parties are aware that Jerez is an icon for world motorcycling, and that all the major motor racing events must go through the Circuito de Jerez.”

Gregorio Lavilla – WorldSBK Executive Director:

“We are delighted to bring the WorldSBK championship back to its roots at the legendary Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto for the final round of the 2023 season. Jerez holds a special place in the history of our sport, and it is only fitting that we conclude this remarkable season at a venue with such rich heritage. We look forward to witnessing the fierce competition and celebrating the sport’s legacy with the passionate fans in Andalusia.”

MotoGP: Rins Replacing Morbidelli At Monster Energy Yamaha

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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MotoGP: Rins Replacing Morbidelli At Monster Energy Yamaha

Yamaha Sign Alex Rins for the 2024 MotoGP Season as a Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is delighted to announce that Alex Rins will be joining the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team for the 2024 season alongside Fabio Quartararo.

Silverstone (UK), 2nd August 2023

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce the signing of Alex Rins. He will be joining Yamaha‘s factory team rider line-up for the 2024 MotoGP season alongside Fabio Quartararo.

The vastly experienced Spaniard has many premier-class and lower-class race victories (6x MotoGP, 4x Moto2, 8x Moto3, 18 in total) and podiums (18x MotoGP, 17x Moto2, 23x Moto3, 58 in total) to his name. His vast experience and undeniable talent make him a fully qualified and welcome addition to the Yamaha rider line-up.

Following Rins‘ leg injury sustained in the 2023 Italian GP Sprint, MotoGP fans the world over eagerly anticipate his return to action. He underwent two surgeries and is working hard on making a full recovery.

LIN JARVIS
Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing

“We are delighted that Alex is joining the Yamaha line-up, and we warmly welcome him to the Yamaha MotoGP group.

“We expect Alex to be a great asset. He has vast experience as a MotoGP rider and is known to be a natural talent and a multi-time MotoGP class race winner. He already has experience with two other MotoGP manufacturers and has ridden bikes with similar characteristics to the YZR-M1, which should help him adapt quickly to our bike. His win in COTA earlier this year underlines his speed, hunger, and determination to succeed.

“Alex has been away from the MotoGP paddock for a while due to the injury he sustained at Mugello, but we are confident that he should be fully recovered and up to speed for the 2024 season. We are really looking forward to working with him and believe that he will collaborate well with Fabio and enhance the total performance of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team.”

Alex Rins, Personal Profile

Date of Birth: 08-12-1995

Place of Birth: Barcelona

Nationality: Spanish

Height: 176cm

Weight: 72 kg

Grand Prix Debut: 2012 Qatar GP

MotoGP Debut: 2017 Qatar GP

First GP Win: 2013 Americas GP (Moto3)

First Premier Class Win: 2019 Americas GP

GP Wins: 18 (6x MotoGP, 4x Moto2, 8x Moto3)

GP Podiums: 58 (18x MotoGP, 17x Moto2, 23x Moto3)

Poles: 17 (4x Moto2, 13x Moto3)

Alex Rins, Racing Career

2023 MotoGP World Championship (13th – 47 points) [Injured since the Italian GP Sprint]

2022 MotoGP World Championship (7th – 173 points)

2021 MotoGP World Championship (13th – 99 points)

2020 MotoGP World Championship (3rd – 139 points)

2019 MotoGP World Championship (4th – 205 points)

2018 MotoGP World Championship (5th– 169 points)

2017 MotoGP World Championship (16th – 59 points)

2016 Moto2 World Championship (3rd – 214 points)

2015 Moto2 World Championship (2nd – 234 points)

2014 Moto3 World Championship (3rd – 237 points)

2013 Moto3 World Championship (2nd – 311 points)

2012 Moto3 World Championship (5th – 141 points)

Alex Rins, Rider Biography

Alex Rins won the CEV in 2011 before moving up to the Moto3 World Championship in 2012 and gaining the title of Rookie of the Year. A title contender down to the last corner in 2013, with more wins and podiums, the Spaniard was just beaten to the crown by compatriot Maverick Viñales.

After a more difficult 2014 affected slightly by injury, Rins moved to Moto2 for 2015 and was Rookie of the Year, taking two wins in his debut season in the intermediate class. A title challenger in 2016, the former National Champion finished the season in third after more impressive wins and podiums and moved up to MotoGP in 2017 with Team Suzuki Ecstar.

Despite some trouble with injury and missed races, Rins was impressive and took some top-five results as a rookie – a good springboard for his sophomore season. He went on to take five podiums in 2018 and consistently fight at the front: another solid foundation for 2019. The next step was claiming a maiden MotoGP victory at the Americas GP before repeating the feat in Silverstone.

2020 was another outstanding year for the Spaniard as he claimed victory in the Aragon GP as well as podium finishes in the Catalan, Teruel, and European GPs, helping him achieve third overall in the Championship.

2021, however, was a year to forget for Rins, with crashes at crucial times costing him dearly. He had opportunities on no fewer than six occasions but only tasted podium success once, at the British GP.

The Spaniard bounced back in 2022, delivering some superb performances despite real adversity. Top of the championship after five rounds, Suzuki‘s planned exit hit the team hard, resulting in a dip in form. But magnificent wins at Phillip Island and Valencia saw Rins finish the season as the in-form man, giving him great confidence heading into a new adventure with LCR Honda.

He started this year strong, securing a dominant win at COTA, but a leg injury sustained in the Italian GP Sprint temporarily halted his 2023 campaign. Rins underwent two surgeries, missing the Italian, German, and Dutch GP.

More, from another press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:

Yamaha-Morbidelli Partnership to End After 2023 MotoGP Season

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces that Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP and Franco Morbidelli will go their separate ways after the 2023 MotoGP season.

Silverstone (UK), 2nd August 2023

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces that its partnership with Franco Morbidelli will be discontinued at the end of 2023 when Morbidelli will move on to new racing challenges.

Since Morbidelli joined Yamaha in 2019, the Italian achieved six podiums: three victories, one second, and two third places. He also claimed two pole positions and was MotoGP Vice World Champion in 2020. After a short break due to a knee injury during the 2021 season, Morbido made a comeback at the San Marino GP as part of the Yamaha Factory Racing Team. In total he contested 74 GPs as a Yamaha rider so far.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., Yamaha Motor Racing, and the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are extremely grateful for Morbidelli‘s contributions, never-diminishing motivation, and his positive mindset. They look forward to sharing more memorable moments during the remaining 12 MotoGP rounds of 2023.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. wishes Morbidelli the very best in his future racing endeavours and reconfirms Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team‘s full support for him for the remainder of the season to end their partnership on a high note.

LIN JARVIS
Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing

“First and foremost, I want to thank Franky for his hard work and dedication ever since he started with the Factory Team and also long before that when he was a Satellite rider for Yamaha. The Yamaha and Morbidelli partnership led to some great results, including an outstanding vice-champion title in 2020.

“It‘s a shame that the last two years didn‘t play out the way we both wanted and hoped for. We discussed the possibilities to continue our partnership, but ultimately we decided that 2024 would be a moment to make a change, both for Yamaha and for Franky.

“The team will proceed to fully support Franky in every way we can to close out our time spent together in the best possible way.”

Moto2: SDK Will Miss Silverstone To Continue Recovery

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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Moto2: SDK Will Miss Silverstone To Continue Recovery

Rory Skinner returns for British Grand Prix whilst Sean Dylan Kelly sits out Silverstone as his recovery continues.

After missing the last three races with a fractured talus bone, Rory makes a welcome return to the team in time for his home round at Silverstone where he made his Moto2 debut in 2022 with the team as a wildcard entry.

Unfortunately, SDK will miss the British Grand Prix as he continues his recovery from forearm surgery.

The American underwent a procedure during the summer break for arm pump issues which plagued him for the first half of the season. However, due to fluid build-up in the area, he will sit out the round at Silverstone as he targets Austria for his return.

Rory Skinner #33

It’s been a long 8/9 weeks since my accident at Mugello and it’s been a pretty boring road to recovery as there wasn’t a lot I could do with the complications of the injury. For the last two weeks, I’ve been back to training: cycling, in the gym, and riding bikes. It’s been really enjoyable being able to go back to doing all the things that I normally do.

I’m feeling good for Silverstone, I’m really looking forward to the weekend and being back with the team. It should be pretty enjoyable, my first home Grand Prix as a full-time Moto2 rider. Last year was amazing but I’m hoping this year will be even better.

Sean Dylan Kelly #4

This week I came over to Madrid to visit my doctors for a three-week check on my forearm surgery. Unfortunately, there was some liquid build-up in the same area where the scar tissue was last time which means they had to do a small procedure to remove the fluid and do some infiltration to prevent that from coming back and leading to actual scar tissue.

The hope of getting my arm back to 100% is still looking good, it just means that the recovery is pushed back a little bit as I have to keep my arm immobilised for another 7-10 days which means I have to miss out on racing at Silverstone. It’s not the news that I wanted to give but that’s the situation and obviously, I need to think about what’s most important right now and that’s my body.

I’m hoping to be back training right after Silverstone and to be back on my Moto2 bike in Austria. I want to thank everyone, especially my team, my management, and everyone around me for looking out for me and being with me during this tough time, and I hope to see you all in Austria!

MotoAmerica: JD Beach Riding Yamaha Superbike At PittRace

David Swarts

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August 2, 2023

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MotoAmerica: JD Beach Riding Yamaha Superbike At PittRace

Beach Joins Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing at PIRC

JD Beach will fill in for Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Cameron Petersen at the MotoAmerica Superbike triple-header at Pittsburgh International Race Complex

MARIETTA, Ga. – August 2, 2023 – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing brings aboard JD Beach to race the MotoAmerica Superbike triple-header at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex on August 18-20. The flat track racer returns to the paddock to fill in for Cameron Petersen, who is focusing on returning to full fitness from a wrist injury that has sidelined him from the remaining rounds of the season.

Over the past five seasons, Beach has been battling for top honors in the American Flat Track Mission SuperTwins Championship with the Estenson Racing team aboard their Yamaha MT-07s. The multi-time road race champion with dirt track roots has enjoyed success with Yamaha in both disciplines and also has a history with Attack Performance. Beach raced for the team during his debut Superbike season in 2011 and also during the 2019 MotoAmerica Superbike season when he raced both MotoAmerica and AFT premier classes, scoring his first SuperTwins and Superbike victory on back-to-back weekends.

In addition to the PIRC round, Beach will head straight from the American Flat Track Sturgis Half-Mile to ride the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing R1 at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) test on August 7-8. Josh Hayes, who rode Petersen’s bike this past weekend at Round 6 of the championship in Brainerd, Minnesota, will also ride the team’s R1 during the morning sessions on the first day of the COTA test. The fill-in rider for the final two rounds will be announced at a later date.

Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“It will be a pleasure to work with JD again. He is always motivated and positive. We have some history together and good communication, so it will be very easy for him to jump right in and get to work. He last rode our R1 in 2021 at BIR as a last-minute fill-in rider. It will be interesting to get his reaction to our 2023 R1 and how it may compare to Josh Hayes’ comments, who will also be at our test next week. It should be good fun and a learning experience for everyone.”

JD Beach – Estenson Racing

“First off, I want to thank the Estenson Racing team for allowing me to do this. I’d also like to thank Yamaha and Attack for thinking of me to fill this role. I know I’ve got some big shoes to fill because Cam has been fast the last year and a half, as well as Hayes last weekend at Brainerd. I know this is going to be tough coming in as a fill-in rider, but I’m up for the challenge. I’m excited to get some seat time on a factory Superbike. I’m not sure that I will get the opportunity again, so I want to give it all I got. I want to do the best I can for the team and help them with the points, but I am also still focused on the final AFT rounds too.”

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

August 2023

Magazine Issue

Trudy Ulrich

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August 1, 2023

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On the Front Cover: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich has screaming fun riding
the all-new 399cc, 4-cylinder, 15,000-rpm 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR at Thunderhill Raceway Park. Photo by Kevin Wing.

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AUGUST 2023 ISSUE

FEATURES

Inside Info: BMW Expands Motorsport Department, Yamaha Unveils R1 GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary Track-Day Bike And XSR900 DB40 Prototype, Stars Come Out For Goodwood Festival Of Speed, Americans Racing And Winning Overseas

Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1984 Kobas 250cc Grand Prix Racebike

Intro: Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR Is A Screaming Fun Machine

MotoGP Analysis: Why Ducati Is Winning Big And Everyone Else Is Losing Big

Hanging With: Xavi Fores, Ducati’s Latest MotoAmerica Import

RACING

MotoAmerica Superbike at The Ridge: Beaubier & Gagne Split Wins

MotoAmerica Superbike at Laguna: Beaubier Takes Two Out Of Three,
But Gagne’s Lead Grows

Superbike World Championship: Razgatlioğlu Breaks Bautista’s Win Streak

COLUMNS

Letters To The Editor: Not Enough Workers At Laguna Seca?

10 Years Ago, August 2013: Jorge Lorenzo put a hard pass on Dani Pedrosa
to win the MotoGP race at Mugello, Honda introduced the500cc Parallel Twin CBR500R and CBR500F, John McGuinness talks about fear and glory in the Isle of Man TT

New Products: M4 Exhaust For Kawasaki ZX-4RR

The Crash Page: Kayla Yaakov In Twins Cup At Laguna Seca

Racing, School, & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride

Classified Ads/Advertiser Index

High Performance Parts & Services Directory

Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: Rider & Racetrack Friendly Middleweights

MotoGP: Oliveira Reports He Is Nearly 100% Recovered From Shoulder Injury

David Swarts

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August 1, 2023

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MotoGP: Oliveira Reports He Is Nearly 100% Recovered From Shoulder Injury

CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team full throttle into the second half of 2023

Fresh from five weeks off, Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez arrive in Silverstone this weekend for the ninth round of 2023, which initiates the second half of an intense season. Following a long recovery period after a challenging start of the season, both CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP riders are eager and fully fit to kick off this next phase with enthusiasm.

Miguel Oliveira had a difficult time coming back from a shoulder injury sustained at the Spanish GP, which was just the fourth round of the season. He fought his way back and worked on improving his condition in subsequent races at Mugello, Sachsenring, and Assen. However, he was relieved to have a well-deserved five-week break, allowing him ample time to fully recover ahead of this weekend’s British GP.

On the other side, Raul Fernandez faces his set of challenges at the beginning of the season fighting with an arm pump issue that eventually led him to getting surgery after the Spanish GP, resulting in his withdrawal at the French round but made a steady comeback during the three back to back rounds ahead of the summer break. The Spanish youngster is motivated to prove his worth now during the second half of the season.

For the remaining 12 rounds of 2023, the format has changed slightly. The British Grand Prix starts with Free Practice one at 10:45 local time (11:45 CET) on Friday, which means the session is not counted for Qualifying, while the 60 minutes Practice session on Friday afternoon at 15:00 local time (16:00 CET) will determine the entries for Qualifying one and two which takes place on Saturday.

This season, the MotoGP paddock will return to the impressive wing building that Formula one is already consistently using, which also changes the start-finish straight at the Silverstone Circuit.

MIGUEL OLIVEIRA

“I think it’s a great time to come back after such a long break, that was really helpful for me to recover my shoulder 100%. I came to a fitness level close to where I was at the start of the season. I obviously feel very confident and happy to get on working and really be competitive again back on my Aprilia RS-GP. It wasn’t the start of the season that we had hoped for, but we take on the second half and aim to bring back good results for all of us.”

RAUL FERNANDEZ

“I just had five weeks to prepare very well. After the surgery in May I think it will be interesting to try to do the second part of the season very well. Anyway, I am ready to go. I’m really happy to start again. I can’t stay at home anymore, because I just want to race. I can’t wait to arrive in Silverstone!”

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“That seemed to be a very long five weeks break, while we are not even in the middle of the season yet. We’re just going to the ninth round, which is Silverstone this weekend. We had a long break, but a good one at the same time, especially for our riders, Miguel and Raul. From my communication with them, they have recovered well, they are back to training. Miguel seems to have full strength on his shoulder and Raul probably had a good reset on his peace of mind, so we expect both riders to be 100% fit now. As I said, there are still 12 rounds to go, 24 races. It’s still a long season ahead of us, which is going to be tough, but at the same time, a great opportunity for the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team to turn around our season. We had some bad luck in terms of riders’ fitness, so we hope we can turn our fortunes around and do well in this second half. We look forward to Silverstone with great anticipation, rejuvenated, very much motivated for the riders and the whole team, we can’t wait to get back to the track this week!”

Wilco Zeelenberg, Team Manager CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“We are very happy to start again, but also we needed the time off, basically to get the riders fitter than before the break. Raul was having surgery, feeling well but obviously an operation takes away a lot of power from the body to recover. So, for sure, in those five weeks you can get back into shape like before the surgery. Plus, the arm pump is gone, which was also important. For Miguel, it was a similar situation except the operation. He was recovering from a shoulder injury and we all know that this is very critical and specific. You never know how much damage the soft tissue has and it takes time. Therefore, we definitely needed the break to get stronger and more competitive. Although I have to say, they already did well before the break, even if we couldn’t perform the way we wished. I think we missed the timing in Qualifying a bit, which stopped us from progressing further. Now, after this long break, we have many races in a row. But first, let’s see what we can do in Paradise Island!”

Kawasaki Announces 2024 Ninja ZX-10R And Z900

David Swarts

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August 1, 2023

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Kawasaki Announces 2024 Ninja ZX-10R And Z900

2024 KAWASAKI NINJA® ZX™-10R AND Z900 MOTORCYCLE LINEUPS

Kawasaki is pleased to announce the return of two exciting models to its 2024 motorcycle lineup with the Ninja® ZX™-10R and Z900. The Ninja® ZX™-10R and eye-catching Ninja® ZX™-10R KRT Edition supersport will be available in both ABS and non-ABS versions. The Z900 ABS supernaked sportbike can be found in two color variations followed by the 2024 Z900 SE ABS.

KAWASAKI NINJA® ZX™-10R

The Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R supersport continues to set the bar high in the pinnacle of road racing around the globe with unmatched success on the racetrack, including carrying Kawasaki to seven FIM Superbike World Championships (WorldSBK) since 2013. The Ninja ZX-10R has a 998cc in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve engine that balances power with manageability and its paired with the latest and most advanced electronics such as Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF), Bosch IMU, Sport-Kawasaki TRaction Control (S-KTRC), Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), Öhlins Electronic Steering Damper and Power Modes.

An aluminum twin-spar frame, Showa Balance Free Front Fork (BFF), and horizontal back-link rear suspension with a Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock have been developed with technology straight from Kawasaki’s World Superbike factory racers and contribute to the Ninja ZX-10R’s cornering performance and light handling. The high-grade TFT (thin film transistor) color instrumentation with smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP* and electronic cruise control further add to the high-grade appearance and convenience. The next-generation bodywork and styling with integrated winglets were designed with aerodynamic performance in mind and offer improved drag resistance and an increase in downforce, while its recently introduced air-cooled oil cooler increases cooling and boosts engine performance.

The 2024 Ninja ZX-10R is available in the Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony colorway while the Ninja ZX-10R KRT Edition features exclusive Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) graphics with both made available as ABS and non-ABS models.

KAWASAKI Z900 ABS

The 2024 Z900 ABS naked sportbike features a host of advanced features and epitomizes Kawasaki’s belief of what the ideal supernaked should be. At 948cc with an ultra-lightweight chassis, every ride is met with exceptional power, responsiveness and excitement. The Z900 ABS features a 948cc liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine, trellis frame, Sugomi™-inspired Z styling, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), Power Mode and Integrated Riding Modes selection, Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP*, TFT Color Instrumentation, LED headlamp, position lamp & license plate lamp, and Dunlop Sportmax RoadSport 2 Tires.

KAWASAKI Z900 SE ABS

The Kawasaki Z900 SE ABS supernaked channels many of the same great features found on its Z900 brethren. Additional features unique to the 2024 Z900 SE ABS include an upgraded Brembo front brake package, a large-diameter inverted fork with added compression damping adjustability, and an Öhlins S46 rear shock with remote preload adjuster. Together, these premium upgrades deliver improved handling, performance, and excitement in addition to the iconic eye-catching styling that makes this supernaked motorcycle stand out from the crowd.

*RIDEOLOGY THE APP is not intended for use during vehicle operation. Only use RIDEOLOGY THE APP when the vehicle is not being operated and it is safe to do so.

2024 Model Variations

Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony

MSRP: $17,799

Availability: Now

Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R KRT Edition

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $17,799

Availability: Now

Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R ABS

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony

MSRP: $18,799

Availability: Now

Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R KRT Edition ABS

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $18,799

Availability: Now

Kawasaki Z900 ABS

Color: Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray, Candy Persimmon Red / Ebony*

MSRP: $9,799, *$10,099

Availability: Now

Kawasaki Z900 SE

Color: Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Candy Lime Green

MSRP: $11,299

Availability: Now

ABOUT KAWASAKI

Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths which will surely give birth to new legends.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and JET SKI® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 260 of them located at KMC’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters.

Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the Good Times Roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

American Flat Track: Mees Leads By One Point Heading To Black Hills HM

August 2, 2023

Jared Mees (1), as seen at the Bridgeport Half-Mile. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.