Lurie Named Triumph North America Racing Manager

David Swarts

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February 23, 2023

Lurie Named Triumph North America Racing Manager

TRIUMPH APPOINTS NORTH AMERICAN OFF ROAD PRODUCT & RACE SUPPORT MANAGER LURIE TO FOCUS ON OFF-ROAD PROGRAMS AND TRIUMPH FACTORY RACING SUPPORT

Triumph Motorcycles has welcomed former racer and riding coach, Zach Lurie to manage future Off Road models as well as support Triumph Racing activity in North America.

Lurie brings combined 25 years racing experience as an athlete, riding coach, and industry expert. As a child, Zach competed in BMX in the Grand National and World BMX events. He transitioned into Motocross racing at the age of 12 where he competed in Local and National Amateur Events before graduating to racing Professional Motocross, Arenacross, and Supercross.

After his time on the track, Lurie used his experience to prepare the next generation of riders. Zach became the owner operator of a performance oriented off-road training facility, offering athlete management and rider coaching.

Lurie’s appointment to this newly created role reflects Triumph’s commitment and growing investment in the Off-Road and Dual Sport segments as well as motorcycle racing. He will support the recently announced Triumph Factory Supercross and Motocross team in the US. He will additionally focus on building Triumph off road and race support programs for the future.

Rod Lopusnak – General Manager, Triumph North America:

“We have an incredible focus on continuing our drive to build a team of Industry Leading professionals committed to the Triumph Brand, our Dealers and Customers. Zach brings a competitive and winning attitude to the organization, along with the experience to back it up. With his knowledge of racing, and his passion for the off-road industry as whole, I look forward to the growth that Zach will bring to Triumph North America.”

Zach Lurie – Triumph Racing Manager, Triumph North America:

“Whether it was chasing my personal dreams as a racing athlete, coaching new talent to new heights, or building a training facility from the ground up, I’ve dedicated my life to the racing industry. I see true passion in every employee I’ve met at Triumph motorcycles. Mixing that passion with the iconic team we are putting together is a recipe for greatness when we go racing. Triumph is known globally as a premium motorcycle company, and I feel incredibly blessed to join the team on a journey to build the next generation of racing.”

Steve Wise Named Grand Marshal Of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2023

David Swarts

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February 23, 2023

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Steve Wise Named Grand Marshal Of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2023

Steve Wise Named Grand Marshal of 2023 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days

31st Annual AMA VMD event to highlight Wise’s AMA Superbike, AMA Supercross, AMA Motocross and Superbikers victories, along with featured marque Honda

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer and multi-talented road, motocross, AMA Supercross and Superbikers racer Steve Wise will be the Grand Marshal for the 2023 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days event July 21-23 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.

With National wins in a wide variety of professional racing disciplines, Wise is one of the most multi-talented racers in history, and still the only National-class motocross winner to ever win an AMA Superbike National (Mid-Ohio, in ’83).

To put an exclamation point on that dual-threat distinction, Wise is also a two-time winner of the prestigious ABC Wide World of Sports Superbikers event at Carlsbad Raceway, beating an impressive field of world-class racers in ’80 and ’81. Wise was named AMA Pro Athlete of the Year in 1982 and was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2001.

To help celebrate Wise’s many achievements, a couple of Honda 50th and 40th Anniversary motorcycles will be featured at this year’s Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days celebration, including two that figured prominently in Wise’s stellar career — Honda’s CR250 Elsinore (introduced in 1973) and VF750F Interceptor (introduced in 1983).

To augment the production-spec Hondas that will be highlighted at the weekend event, AMA Superbike collector Brian O’Shea will bring a few of his race- and championship-winning Honda Interceptors to Mid-Ohio, including AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Freddie Spencer’s Daytona-winner from 1985 and one of Hall of Famer Fred Merkel’s factory AMA Superbikes. And to cap off the display, American Honda is planning to have Wise’s actual Superbikers-winning factory RC400 on display.

“I’m honored to be Grand Marshal at this year’s AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days event,” Wise said, “especially at the track on which I won my first AMA Superbike event. I remember that weekend in 1983 like it was yesterday, and being able to go back there and enjoy such a wide range of racing, historical and just-plain-fun motorcycle stuff that happens at VMD will be memorable, I’m sure. I’m excited about the opportunity!”

While there, Wise will sign autographs, speak to enthusiasts from the AMA Soundstage, participate in a Lap For History each day (and lead event attendees around the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit), drop the starting gate for a motocross event, and much more.

Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the preeminent — and longest-running — vintage motorcycle event in the country, with over 40,000 attendees each year enjoying off-road and road racing, bike shows, AMA Hall of Fame exhibits, camping, Laps For History on the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit and, of course, the country’s largest motorcycle swap meet.

“We are over-the-moon to have Steve Wise as this year’s Grand Marshal at VMD,” said AMA Editorial and Communications Director Mitch Boehm. “A large percentage of motorcycle enthusiasts ride on-road and off, which makes Wise’s incredible racing accomplishments on asphalt and dirt especially compelling. And to have a handful of historically important Anniversary Hondas on display? Well, it’s going to be really special.”

For more information visit https://www.vintagemotorcycledays.com, sign up for the AMA VMD newsletter or follow #AMAVMD on social media channels. To purchase tickets, visit midohio.com/tickets or AMA members can purchase discounted tickets at vintagemotorcycledays.com/tickets/.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

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

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

World Endurance: Mercado Joins Honda Viltaïs Racing

David Swarts

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February 23, 2023

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World Endurance: Mercado Joins Honda Viltaïs Racing

Mercado chooses EWC for new career chapter

*Argentine completes Honda Viltaïs Racing’s Formula EWC attack for 2023

*He joins Bol d’Or-winning team’s existing riders Alt, Odendaal and Westmoreland

*Team boss Lucot impressed by Mercado’s human qualities and willingness to adapt

Argentine Leandro Mercado has chosen the FIM Endurance World Championship to open the latest chapter of his career following successful stints in the FIM Superbike World Championship.

The 31-year-old is joining Yannick Lucot’s Honda Viltaïs Racing for the 2023 EWC season when he will partner Florian Alt, Steven Odendaal and fourth rider James Westmoreland on the French team’s new-for-2023 #333 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade.

It will be Marcado’s first experience in the EWC while his signing brings a rider from South America to the all-action championship for the first time in recent memory.

Nicknamed ‘Tati’, Mercado began his career in 2008 in the Red Bull AMA US Rookies Cup and he underlined his potential the following year by becoming AMA Supersport champion.

He moved to Europe in 2010 to compete in the Italian CIV Speed Championship before he stepped up to the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2012 for a partial campaign.

Mercado claimed the European Superstock 1000 Cup title in 2014 on a privately-run Ducati ahead of a return to the Superbike World Championship for 2015. A year of consistent finishing earned him a strong eighth place in the final order.

After a year back on Superstock machinery, albeit as an official Ducati rider, Mercado returned to the World Superbike arena for 2017. But he did so on top form after he scored three wins and one podium from eight starts in European Superstock, missing the 2016 title by four points.

Having completed a six-year unbroken stint in World Superbikes, including two years riding with Honda power, Mercado will make his EWC debut in 2023 with the Bol d’Or-winning Viltaïs team, starting with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans from 13-16 April.

“For me it’s the start of new chapter on my career, and I’m very happy to make it with the Viltaïs family,” said Córdoba-born Mercado. “I could see the values and the strength of the team, the focusing to archive the goals. It’s a big challenge, and I am really motivated. I know I have to learn many things about Endurance, but I’m ready to give my 100 per cent to archive the goals. I had the opportunity to know all the people of the team in a great atmosphere and great determination. This year the team switch to Honda which I know the bike from the last two years, and I’ll give to the team all my experience. I want to say thanks to Yannick and the whole team for believing in me, and I can’t wait to start this new chapter.”

Honda Viltaïs Racing Team Manager Yannick Lucot said: “Tati knows the Honda well, but the first thing that catches our attention at Viltaïs is the human qualities. During our interview for a recruitment, I was accompanied by our physical and mental trainer in order to understand the psychology of the candidates. We saw several riders and the contact we had with Tati went very well. His willingness to adapt to a new team, to adhere to a common project and to prepare himself for this discipline that he is discovering, were decisive elements. If he succeeds in integrating quickly, we will definitely be there from the beginning of the 2023 season.”

MotoAmerica: Pit Stop Challenge Returns With $16,000 Purse

David Swarts

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February 23, 2023

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MotoAmerica: Pit Stop Challenge Returns With $16,000 Purse

Pit Stop Challenge Set For Day Prior To The Daytona 200

The Top Teams Will Face Off To See Who Can Perform The Quickest Pit Stop

IRVINE, CA (February 23, 2023) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that the second annual Pit Stop Challenge will be held on Friday, March 10 – a day prior to the 81st running of the Daytona 200 at Daytona International Speedway, sponsored in part by Pirelli and Bridgestone.

The Pit Stop Challenge gives spectators a close-up look at what goes into a winning pit stop in the Daytona 200 as they witness the top-five qualifying riders and their teams perform their high-speed magic as they change both wheels, simulate filling the motorcycle with gas and then see that team push their motorcycle across the timing strip for the fastest time. But it’s not just about speed as teams forgetting to tighten an axle nut will be disqualified.

Last year’s inaugural Pit Stop Challenge was a popular addition to MotoAmerica’s activities at the Speedway with five teams challenging for glory and the lion’s share of the $16,000 purse, which ultimately went to the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati New York team and Josh Herrin’s Panigale V2.

The Pit Stop Challenge will be held at the conclusion of on-track activity at the Speedway with teams heading for Victory Lane where the competition will be held in front of a packed grandstand.

“Last year’s inaugural Pit Stop Challenge was a lot of fun to watch,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “The fans loved it, the teams really got into the competition of it all, and the event was a complete success. For those who can’t be there in person, the contest will be broadcast on MotoAmerica Live+ with Michael Hill again calling the action and getting the crowd pumped up in Victory Lane.”

With 100 percent of the funds donated by sponsors going directly to the purse, the winning team from the Pit Stop Challenge will take home $7,500 plus another $1,000 worth of VP Fuel. The second-place squad will earn $5,000; while the team who finishes third will get a payout of $3,500.

MotoAmerica would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the second annual Pit Stop Challenge: Pirelli, Bridgestone, QJmotor, Coatzymoto/LatinME, Cometic Gaskets, Mission Foods, Motion Pro, Castrol, SBS Brakes, SportbikeTrackGear.com, Lyndall Brakes and Barnett Clutches.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

MotoAmerica: Gagne Tops Rain-Affected Day Two At Buttonwillow Test (Updated)

David Swarts

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February 22, 2023

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MotoAmerica: Gagne Tops Rain-Affected Day Two At Buttonwillow Test (Updated)

MotoAmerica Pre-Season Test

Buttonwillow Raceway Park (Config 26 CCW)

Buttonwillow, California

February 22, 2023

Day Two Best Lap Times (all on Dunlop tires, lap times courtesy Attack Yamaha):

Jake Gagne (Yam), 1:42.179
Cameron Beaubier (BMW), 1:43.645
Mathew Scholtz (Yam), 1:44.151
PJ Jacobsen (BMW), 1:44.529
Richie Escalante (Suz), 1:45.038
Toni Elias (Suz), 1:45.064
Corey Alexander (BMW), 2:00.747

More, from a press release issued by MotoAmerica:

Weather Wreaks Havoc On Buttonwillow Superbike Test

Wind, Hail and Rain Hits South Central California And Puts An Early Stop To Testing On Day Two

IRVINE, CA (February 22, 2023) – Inclement weather cut short the second of two days of MotoAmerica Superbike testing at Buttonwillow Raceway Park with rain finally putting a stop to the proceedings at the racetrack in California’s central valley by 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

With even the most diehard of the seven Superbike testers only turning in 18 laps, it was again Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne with the fastest lap of the day, though his 1:42.179 lap was almost a second slower than his best from Tuesday when the weather cooperated – well, at least until the wind showed up in the late afternoon.

“It was windy right away in the morning and we got like two or three sessions in,” Gagne said. “Then it started sprinkling on us and we were just waiting around to see if it was going to stop raining and then it rained again in the afternoon. There was no time for the track to dry after that.”

It was again Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Cameron Beaubier who was second best to Gagne with his 1:43.645. Beaubier was also off his best from Tuesday, lapping 1.532 seconds slower with the limited amount of dry track time.

Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz was third fastest today – 1.8 seconds off his best from Tuesday with Wednesday’s 1:44.151. Then came Beaubier’s teammate PJ Jacobsen with his 1:44.529 and almost two seconds slower than Tuesday though he did move up a spot to lead Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante. Escalante’s best on Wednesday was a 1:45.038, a day after turning in a 1:42.918.

Toni Elias had his second day on the Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki and ended it with a best lap of 1:45.064.

Corey Alexander, meanwhile, battled mechanical woes and only completed three laps on his Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW M 1000 RR.

Overall Best Times

Jake Gagne (Yamaha) 1:41.274

Cameron Beaubier (BMW) 1:42.113

Mathew Scholtz (Yamaha) 1:42.322

Richie Escalante (Suzuki) 1:42.322

PJ Jacobsen (BMW) 1:43.813

Toni Elias (Suzuki) 1:43.962

Corey Alexander (BMW) 1:45.824

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

More, from a press release issued by Westby Racing:

Westby Racing And Rider Mathew Scholtz Complete Preseason Test At Buttonwillow

Mathew Scholtz (11). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Westby Racing.

Tulsa, OK – February 23, 2023 – It was a long haul out to the West Coast for MotoAmerica Superbike team Westby Racing and its rider Mathew Scholtz, but track time is precious, especially during the winter months, and the team took full advantage of the invitation extended to them by the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing team to participate in a two-day test on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week at Buttonwillow Raceway Park in Buttonwillow, California.

A few weeks ago, Mathew and the team participated in a “shakedown” test of sorts at Buttonwillow, but that test was mostly used to get Mathew back up to speed after not having been on the #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 since the final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica season at Barber Motorsports Park last September. Also, the team upgraded the bike’s Marelli ECU with a new, upgraded software version, and the first task was to make sure all systems were ‘go’ with the motorcycle, the rider, and the crew.

For this latest test yesterday and the day before, Mathew and the team worked diligently on the bike’s setup as it relates to the new software. On Tuesday, Mathew was able to complete a total of 30 laps, and even though quick lap times weren’t the ultimate goal, he did manage to go third-fastest of the seven MotoAmerica Superbike riders who participated in the test. His fastest lap of 1:42.322 was just .209 of a second behind five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and recent FIM Moto2 competitor Cameron Beaubier, and only .839 of a second behind two-time Superbike Champion Jake Gagne, who was the fastest rider at the test.

On Wednesday, the weather became uncooperative, with temperatures in the low 40s and sleet limiting Mathew to only 10 laps around Buttonwillow Raceway. All four teams and all seven riders decided to call it a day due to the unfavorable weather conditions.

“The first day was positive for us,” Mathew said at the end of day two. “Just getting to understand and work out the new system and figure out the new added channels and the software, what’s working, where and how it affects the chassis, and just understanding the system as a whole. On day two, the weather didn’t really play into our hands. We only got about 10 laps in, so we weren’t able to try a few things that we had planned. But overall, it’s pretty clear for us to see that the new system has a lot more benefits for us and a lot more tools that we’re able to use to kind of see through some of the problems we had last year.

“I really want to say ‘thank you’ to the Westby guys. Obviously, traveling way out to the West Coast is quite a commitment for us, but it’s always good to do testing and to be around some of the other Superbike guys who we’ll be racing against. We’re looking forward to the next test that we’ll have here in a few weeks and just getting the bike closer to where we need it to be for the first round of the season at Road Atlanta. I’m very happy to be back on the bike and testing, and I think the 2023 season will be a good one for us.”

Mathew and the Westby Racing team will test again at Buttonwillow on March 22 and 23. For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, visit http://www.WestbyRacing.com

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

Graft Releases 34-Horsepower, 110-Pound Electric Off-Road Bike

David Swarts

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February 22, 2023

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Graft Releases 34-Horsepower, 110-Pound Electric Off-Road Bike

EV startup Graft has begun commercial production of its carbon-rim electric motorcycle, featuring fully interchangeable battery pack

● Electric Vehicle (EV) startup, Graft, has begun taking orders of EO.12, its first high-performance electric motorbike designed for off-road trail riding, competitive enduro and motocross.

● With a maximum output of 25 kW (34 hp) and weighing just 50 kg / 110 lbs. (battery inclusive), the bike has the highest known power-to-weight ratio in the off-road e-bike market and is the first in the world to feature carbon fiber wheels.

● The EO.12 is priced in packages ranging from $8,500-$12,500 USD (depending on set-up and battery size) and is the first in Graft’s fleet of off-road recreational vehicles that will share fully interchangeable battery packs.

SAN FRANCISCO, TAIPEI – FEB 22, 2022 – Following two years of development and comprehensive testing, EV startup Graft has begun commercial production of its first high-performance, off-road electric motorcycle. Designed, developed and manufactured in-house by a team of passionate engineers and riders, EO.12 dirt bikes will be hand built in monthly, made-to-order batches and shipped worldwide from the company’s production workshop in Taipei, Taiwan.

The EO.12 is the first off-road motorbike across both gasoline and electric markets to feature carbon fibre wheels, delivering 25% weight saving against the average motorbike wheel and comprising a total vehicle weight of 50 kg / 110 lbs. (battery inclusive). The ultra-light construction ensures excellent maneuverability and easy recovery on challenging, technical trails, and with a maximum output of 25 kW (34 hp) the bike has the highest known power-to-weight ratio for an off-road electric motorbike. By marrying impressive power with manageable weight and removing the need for gear changes, the bike is easy to handle, making it as inviting for athletes as it is for dirt bike novices.

Featuring a large wheel size (53.34 cm/21 inch), EO.12 utilizes a user-friendly seat height homologated for the average American or European rider. Engineered to meet optimized traction and durability specifications, Graft has selected high-quality materials and components that exponentially elevate riding experiences including a luxury touchscreen display, motorcycle-grade suspension (produced by BOS with 3-way adjustability), and a hydraulic bump stop for additional shock absorption.

The Graft EO.12 is made from advanced materials. Here is a shot of its carbon-fiber rear wheel. Photo courtesy Graft.

Parts of the drivetrain are 3D-printed in titanium to handle its torque of 440 Nm (324 lbs.-ft.) at the back wheel, and the frame has been CNC machined in-house from 6061-T6 aluminum billet with a brushed, anodized finish. Graft is the only manufacturer in the world making motorcycles with billet CNC-machined frames, a production method that offers additional strength and precision, avoiding any of the distortion seen in welded frames. Rated IP67 water resistant and featuring a permanently lubricated chain, the machine requires extremely little maintenance between rides.

The bike is the first in a family of off-road, recreational vehicles (including motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs) currently being developed by Graft since its launch in 2020. Addressing a common concern among e-bike riders that battery packs can quickly become obsolete as a result of changing designs in later iterations, Graft has designed each of its vehicles to be compatible with the same lithium-ion battery pack that is entirely swappable between models and future vehicle generations. This 10-year pledge on battery pack format is designed not only to increase the long-term usability of Graft’s vehicles but to reduce waste creation and the brand’s overall environmental impact.

A Graft EO.12 electric off-road bike being ridden by Graft Owner and Chief Engineer Azizi Tucker. Photo courtesy Graft.

The company’s owner and lead engineer, Azizi Tucker, said of the launch: “Although Graft was founded just two years ago in 2020, it really emerged out of a lifetime of passion in racing on two and four wheels combined with a 15-year career working in the electric vehicle industry. Our EO.12 bike represents a desire to converge those experiences to fully realize the potential of recreational EVs and the instant torque, easy control, and zero maintenance that the technology has to offer. Most importantly, it represents Graft’s mission to make vehicles that are ground-breaking and fun to ride.”

Graft Owner and Chief Engineer Azizi Tucker. Photo courtesy Graft.

EO.12 comes with a 15A charger (220V) that takes 1.5 hours to complete a full charge. Available with full service upgrades, Graft provides a choice between a standard Base Model and Factory Team model, with the latter offering upgraded power specifications and components, including Vibracore lightweight handlebars and a full titanium bolt kit. With complete aftermarket support and service part availability, Graft has invested heavily in ensuring a seamless after-purchase experience. EO.12 is priced in packages ranging from $8500-$12500 USD (depending on set-up and battery size) and is available now at Graft-EV.com.

Specifications

● Weight: 110 lbs. / 50 kg

● Torque: 440Nm / 324 lbs.-ft.

● Top speed: 50 mph / 70 kph

● Peak Power: 34 hp / 25 kW

● Charge time: 1.5 hours

● Range: 3 hours (varies due to terrain and riding style)

● Swingarm: Billet CNC machined 6061-T6 Aluminium

● Wheelbase: 53.8 in / 1,366 mm

● Shock absorber: 3-way Adjustable Air Shock with Hydraulic Bump Stop

● Front Suspension: 3-way adjustable 42mm Inverted Fork with Hydraulic Bump Stop

● Battery Type: Lithium-ion

● Battery Pack Voltage: 80 V

● Battery Pack Capacity 2.7 KWh

● Battery Pack Life Cycle: 2000 Charge Cycles

● MSRP: $8,500-$12,500 USD

ABOUT GRAFT

Built by riders for riders, Graft is an EV startup, dedicated to manufacturing high-quality, best-in-class electric motorcycles and recreational vehicles. Founded by American-born engineer and power sports enthusiast, Azizi Tucker, Graft combines decades of experience, creative exploration, and tinkering in the motorsports, electric vehicle and manufacturing fields. Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan to take advantage of the burgeoning supply chain of the Pacific Rim as well as the whole World, Graft’s small team of engineers handcraft vehicles fully in-house, pouring their attention to detail and passion for driving into each and every build.

AHRMA: Race Results From Roebling Road Raceway

David Swarts

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February 22, 2023

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AHRMA: Race Results From Roebling Road Raceway

Editorial Note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.

01 RRW 2023 Roebling Road - Weekend Results

AHRMA: Joyce, Spargo Split Vintage Cup Wins At Roebling Road Raceway

David Swarts

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February 22, 2023

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AHRMA: Joyce, Spargo Split Vintage Cup Wins At Roebling Road Raceway

AHRMA 2023 Vintage Cup Formula 750 Season Opener Split between Spargo and Joyce

(February 22, Knoxville, TN) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is bringing back the epic early 70s battles between two-strokes and four-strokes.

AHRMA’s 2023 Vintage Cup features the Formula 750 (F750) class which includes 750cc two and four-stroke powered machines built up to 1972.

Sponsored by Hagerty Insurance, Roadracingworld.com, and NYC Norton (nycnorton.com), F750 highlights a historic era in motorcycling racing where bikes that looked, sounded, and even smelled very different from each other were on the track together. A typical AHRMA F750 grid may include the Harley Davidson XR750, BSA Rocket 3, Honda CR 750, Norton Commando, Triumph Twins, BMW /5 as well as the Suzuki GT750, and Kawasaki H2.

Newer, like-design machines and smaller-displacement motorcycles from other AHRMA classes are also allowed to compete in F750 races.

“As a sponsor of this class for the past several years, I have a passion for this era of racing, and I’m ecstatic to see the depth of field of riders and machines coming out this year,” said Kenny Cummings of NYC Norton (nycnorton.com). “If Roebling is a true indicator, we are going to have a phenomenal Formula 750 smackdown this year.”

The first Vintage Cup rounds were held Feb 18 and 19 at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, GA as part of the 2023 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Roadracing Series.

The early laps of Saturday’s race put the diversity of the F750 class on full display. Tim Joyce, aboard a 1968 NYC Norton Seeley Nourish jumped to an early lead with Mark Morrow, the 2022 F750 Champion, on his 1976 Yamaha RD400, in pursuit while Tripp Nobles on a 1972 Harley-Davidson XR750 and Chris Spargo, also on an RD400 dueled for third.

Joyce held the lead for five laps until a mechanical issue forced him to retire. Morrow took the lead with Spargo and Nobles battling for second place with the duo swapping positions several times in Roebling Road’s distinctive twisty back-section.

On the final lap, Spargo passed Nobles, then reeled in Morrow, made a move for the lead and took the victory.

There were multiple battles raging off the podium between a dizzying variety of machines. Colton Roberts on a 1975 Yamaha RD400, held off Kevin Dinsmoor on a 1967 CMR Seeley CB550, to take fourth.

The rest of the finishers alternated between two-strokes and four-strokes and Japanese, English, and European bikes: Vincent Borbone on a 1972 Kawasaki H2, Brad Phillips raced a 1972 BMW R75, Michael Wilson was on a 1977 Yamaha RD400, Lloyd Mason raced a 1974 Yamaha RD400, Justin Hebbel on a 1972 BMW R75/5, Mark Williams on a 1974 Kawasaki H-1 500, Tony Read campaigning his 1973 Triumph Bonneville and Stan Miller on a 1973 BMW R75/5.

Hard racing on Saturday led to a slightly smaller F750 grid on Sunday as mechanicals and attrition took its toll and set up another Spargo and Joyce showdown.

Joyce led from the start, opening a commanding lead while clocking a 1:19 lap on his vintage 750. This was the tenor of the race for the first seven laps. On the final lap, Spargo leveraged lapped traffic to close on Joyce. Joyce noticed Spargo’s gain and picked up his pace to take the win handily. Roberts rounded out the podium, aboard his Yamaha RD400.

“There’s a friendly rivalry at AHRMA between the two-stroke and four-stroke riders in Formula 750,” said Brian Larrabure, 2023 Chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees. “This weekend saw a 2-stroke win on Saturday and a 4-stroke win on Sunday, giving us a window on the potential excitement of the 2023 Vintage Cup season.”

The annual Vintage Cup spotlights one of AHRMA’s road racing classes with extra attention on competitors in the selected class during each race event. Enhanced awards for the Vintage Cup competitors are presented separately from other class trophies during the Saturday awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Road Race event. Highlights from each Formula 750 race will be reported in Roadracingworld.com’s online edition. At the conclusion of each season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy will be engraved with the national champion winner’s name and presented to the winner at the National Awards Banquet to keep for one year.

2023 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Roadracing Series, Formula 750 – Vintage Cup Results

Saturday, February 18, 2023

1 – 19 Christopher Spargo, 1976 Yamaha RD400, Hopkins, MN

2 – 1D Mark Morrow, 1976 Yamaha RD 400, Raleigh, NC

3 – 3G Tripp Nobles, 1972 Harley-Davidson XR750TT, Macon, GA

4 – 9 Colton Roberts, 1975 Yamaha RD400, Pawnee, IL

5 – 304 Kevin Dinsmoor, 1967 CMR Seeley CB550, Colchester, CT

6 – 860 Vincent Borbone, 1972 Kawasaki H2, Hampstead, NH

7 – 20 Brad Phillips, 1972 BMW R75, Roebuck, SC

8 – 808 Michael Wilson, 1977 Yamaha RD400, Maylene, AL

9 – 877 Lloyd Mason, 1974 Yamaha RD400, Durham, NC

10 – 43H Justin Hebbel, 1972 BMW R75/5, Baltimore, MD

11 – 662 Mark Williams, 1974 Kawasaki H-1 500, Gainesville, GA

12 – 309 Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley NRE 750, Springfield, VT

13 – 176 Tony Read, 1973 Triumph Bonneville, Charlotte, TN

14 – 320 Stan Miller, 1973 BMW R75/5, St. Petersburg, FL

Sunday, February 19, 2023

1 – 309 Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley NRE 750, Springfield, VT

2 – 19 Christopher Spargo, 1976 Yamaha RD400

3 – 9 Colton Roberts, 1975 Yamaha RD400

4 – 20 Brad Phillips, 1972 BMW R75

5 – 304 Kevin Dinsmoor, 1967 CMR Seeley CB550

6 – 808 Michael Wilson, 1977 Yamaha RD400

7 – 320 Stan Miller, 1973 BMW R75/5

8 – O57 Peter Politiek, Sr Ducati 750ss

9 – 662 Mark Williams, 1974 Kawasaki H-1 500

10 – 176 Tony Read, 1973 Triumph Bonneville

11 – 860 Vincent Borbone, 1972 Kawasaki H2

12 – 877 Lloyd Mason, 1974 Yamaha RD400

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With over 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: Daytona 200 Lineup Includes 51 Riders From 16 Countries

Trudy Ulrich

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February 22, 2023

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MotoAmerica: Daytona 200 Lineup Includes 51 Riders From 16 Countries

51 Riders, 16 Countries And Six Manufacturers Set To Square Off In Daytona 200; A Truly International Field Ready To Fight For Glory In The 81st Running Of The Daytona 200

IRVINE, CA (February 22, 2023) – Fifty-one riders representing 16 countries and riding six different brands of motorcycles will attempt to qualify for the 81st running of the Daytona 200 on March 11 as MotoAmerica kicks off its 2023 season at Daytona International Speedway, the World Center of Racing.

Led by two-time defending Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch and his TOBC Racing Triumph Street Triple RS, the entry list for the 81st running of the 200 is impressive and includes three former Daytona 200 race winners: Paasch (2021, 2022), Danny Eslick (2014, 2017, 2018) and Josh Herrin (2010).

The 2023 Daytona 200 will truly be an international affair as 16 countries will be represented: United States (32 from 18 states), Canada (2), Portugal (2), Great Britain (2), Cuba (2), Czech Republic (1), Spain (1), Brazil (1), Australia (1), Guyana (1), South Africa (1), Ireland (1), Argentina (1), France (1), Italy (1) and Peru (1).

As for the motorcycles being raced, six different manufacturers will have motorcycles attempting to qualify for the 81st running of the 200.

Yamaha, the winningest brand in Daytona 200 history with 27 victories, will have the most representation in the race as 24 riders have opted to compete on YZF-R6s. Suzuki and Kawasaki both have nine of their GSX-Rs and ZX-6Rs entered, respectively, then comes Ducati with six entries followed by Triumph’s two Street Triples and the lone MV Agusta F3RR entry.

“We’re thrilled with our entries for the 81st running of the Daytona 200,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “This will mark MotoAmerica’s second year of running the race and interest in the event continues to rise at a rapid rate. To have riders from 16 different countries heading to Daytona Beach is huge as one of our goals was to work toward building the race into a truly international event as it once was. I think 16 countries being represented shows that our goals are being realized. It’s also impressive to have six different manufacturers with an opportunity to win the Daytona 200. We’re really looking forward to getting to Florida and getting the 2023 season started. It’s going to be a good one.”

For the complete entry list for the 81st running of the Daytona 200, scroll down.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

Daytona Entry List with 54

Canadian Superbike: Yamaha Triples Now Allowed In SportBike

David Swarts

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February 22, 2023

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Canadian Superbike: Yamaha Triples Now Allowed In SportBike

Bridgestone CSBK Confirm Rules Updates for 2023 Season

Toronto, ON – Bridgestone CSBK National series organizers Professional Motor Sports Productions of Toronto, ON, have announced a series of rules adjustments and updates in advance of their 2023 National tour, scheduled to open May 19-21 at Shannonville Motorsport Park, just east of Belleville, ON.

Superbike Maximum permitted horsepower level increased

In 2023, the maximum horsepower permitted for the top category in Bridgestone CSBK will be 210, an increase of ten horsepower over the maximum allowed at CSBK events during the past decade. This information will be gathered using the official series Dynojet Dynamometer, supported by Pickering, ON., tuning emporium Brooklin Cycle Racing.

“When we begin to see motorcycles regularly get close to the horsepower limits, we discuss a possible increase with our manufacturer partners,” explains CSBK founder Colin Fraser. “The previous limit was established by the arrival of the second generation BMW S1000RR, and since then we have seen Superbike outputs gradually increase.”

Yamaha’s triples approved for Pro and Amateur Sport Bike

A recent update in the Sport Bike category guidelines opened up the class to the Ducati Panigale v-2, and now Yamaha are offering another engine configuration for the 125-horsepower category. The family of Yamaha’s popular 890cc three cylinder offerings, including the MT-09, MT-09 SP, Tracer 9 GT and XSR 900 are now approved for competition in the middleweight division.

Currently, the pace setters in the Sport Bike class include Kawasaki’s ZX-6R Ninja, Yamaha’s YZF-R6, Suzuki’s GSX-R600 and the Honda CBR600RR. Changing emission and related standards mean some of these machines are no longer available as new models on the showroom floor in Canada.

Recently, CSBK confirmed that a new category, Pro Twins, would race in conjunction with Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike in 2023, and be included in TSN network coverage.

CSBK drops minimum age one year for Super Sonic Road Race School Amateur Lightweight Sport Bike

In 2022, the youngest racers permitted to take part in any CSBK Series class were required to be a minimum of 15 years of age, but that will change for the upcoming season.
In 2023, the minimum age to participate in the initial entry category only, Amateur Lightweight Sport Bike, will be 14 – one year younger than previous. Super Sonic Road Race School have sponsored this category since 2020, and also organize the popular Canadian MiniSBK Series and the Canada Cup for Ohvale mini-race bikes, based at Lombardy Raceway.

Guidelines Relaxed for Yamaha YZF-R3 airbox in Lightweight Classes

Yamaha’s middleweight twin, the YZF-R3, is a popular choice for competitors in Amateur Lightweight Sport Bike and the Pro-AM Lightweight division. For the 2023 season in those two similar categories, competitors using the YZF-R3 will be permitted to modify their airbox lid and inlet air funnels, in a manner similar to that specified GYTR Engine Kit Manual for the R3. Maximum allowable horsepower as registered post session in the official series Dynojet Dyno will remain at 44, the same limit required for the current “index” machine for the Lightweight categories, the Kawasaki Ninja 400.

Pro Twins Initial Rules Package Released

In 2023, the new Pro twins category will run in conjunction with Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike races at all rounds of the Bridgestone CSBK National tour. The initial rules for the new category, deemed a class in development by CSBK, are now available covering Aprilia, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki twin cylinder machinery.

Click the link below to download the 2023 CSBK Rule Book:

https://www.csbk.ca/images/competitors/2023_csbk_rule_book.pdf

Lurie Named Triumph North America Racing Manager

February 23, 2023

Zach Lurie, Triumph North America's new Racing Manager. Photo courtesy Triumph.

TRIUMPH APPOINTS NORTH AMERICAN OFF ROAD PRODUCT & RACE SUPPORT MANAGER LURIE TO FOCUS ON OFF-ROAD PROGRAMS AND TRIUMPH FACTORY RACING SUPPORT

Triumph Motorcycles has welcomed former racer and riding coach, Zach Lurie to manage future Off Road models as well as support Triumph Racing activity in North America.

Lurie brings combined 25 years racing experience as an athlete, riding coach, and industry expert. As a child, Zach competed in BMX in the Grand National and World BMX events. He transitioned into Motocross racing at the age of 12 where he competed in Local and National Amateur Events before graduating to racing Professional Motocross, Arenacross, and Supercross.

After his time on the track, Lurie used his experience to prepare the next generation of riders. Zach became the owner operator of a performance oriented off-road training facility, offering athlete management and rider coaching.

Lurie’s appointment to this newly created role reflects Triumph’s commitment and growing investment in the Off-Road and Dual Sport segments as well as motorcycle racing. He will support the recently announced Triumph Factory Supercross and Motocross team in the US. He will additionally focus on building Triumph off road and race support programs for the future.

Rod Lopusnak – General Manager, Triumph North America:

“We have an incredible focus on continuing our drive to build a team of Industry Leading professionals committed to the Triumph Brand, our Dealers and Customers. Zach brings a competitive and winning attitude to the organization, along with the experience to back it up. With his knowledge of racing, and his passion for the off-road industry as whole, I look forward to the growth that Zach will bring to Triumph North America.”

Zach Lurie – Triumph Racing Manager, Triumph North America:

“Whether it was chasing my personal dreams as a racing athlete, coaching new talent to new heights, or building a training facility from the ground up, I’ve dedicated my life to the racing industry. I see true passion in every employee I’ve met at Triumph motorcycles. Mixing that passion with the iconic team we are putting together is a recipe for greatness when we go racing. Triumph is known globally as a premium motorcycle company, and I feel incredibly blessed to join the team on a journey to build the next generation of racing.”

Steve Wise Named Grand Marshal Of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2023

February 23, 2023

Steve Wise (38) in action back in the day. Photo courtesy AMA.