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Mesa Wins Five PanAmerican Superbike Races At Homestead

Mesa Takes Five Wins in PanAmerican Superbike 2023 Opening Round

The 2023 season for PanAmerican SuperBike (PanAmSBK) kicked off this past weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Stefano Mesa dominated the weekend with five race wins. Stefano swept the SuperBike 1000 class with wins in the Grande Cora and Sprint races. He also completed the sweep of the Formula Twins class with a first place finish in both the Grande Corsa and Sprint races. To round out the weekend, Mesa added a race win the SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa.

In the 600 class, we saw Diego Perez finish in the top spot of the podium in all three of his races. He swept the SuperBike 600 class by winning the Grande Corsa and Sprint race. Perez’s third race win came in the SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa.

PanAmSBK rookie, Agustin Sierra, made a huge impression in the Amateur class by riding his BMW S1000RR to race wins in the SuperBike 1000 Grande Corsa, SuperBike 1000 Sprint, and Euro Max Sprint. Along with his race wins, Sierra was able to add two second place finishes in the SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa and SuperStock 1000 Sprint races!

The young guns in the paddock made their presence known. Leading off the weekend, Avery Dreher finished in third place in the Expert SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa. While Dreher is no stranger to the podium, this weekend was Avery’s first race in the 600 class!

In the second race of the weekend, we witnessed another young racer take the top podium spot. Ella Dreher in only her third race PanAmSBK race weekend won the Amateur SuperStreet 300 Grande Corsa. After a couple strong showings last season, this race win was Dreher’s first race win! Later in the day, she completed the sweep by winning the Amateur SuperStreet 300 Sprint race! To continue the streak of firsts, Dreher won the inaugural Amateur SuperBike 400 Sprint race where she was racing up a class against 400 and Moto3 bikes!

As the sun sets on the round 1, we now turn our attention towards round 2. For the next round, PanAmSBK heads to The Big Easy. That’s right! Racing returns to NOLA Motorsports Park. For those new to the track, Friday will be a practice day followed by our usual Saturday and Sunday schedule.

For more racing information visit:

www.PanAmSbk.com

Full Season Championship Results and Individual Race Results are conveniently available online at:

https://www.panamsbk.com/championships/

 

or follow us on social media:

www.instagram.com/panamsbk

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MotoAmerica: Gagne Fastest In Spite Of Crash At Buttonwillow Test (Updated)

Two-time and defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne was fastest for a second straight day at a two-day private test at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, in California, but the Colorado resident’s day Wednesday ended early with a crash and his teammate Cameron Petersen right on his heels in terms of lap times.

“The biggest thing is we have a new swingarm that we just got at the last test, in January,” said Gagne, who posted a 1:41.875 Wednesday on his Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha YZF-R1. “We did make a lot of progress with the swingarm and some chassis stuff from last test to this test, so it went good. I ended with a little crash, but overall, it went good and I’m happy.”

Asked about the crash, an uninjured Gagne explained, “I just got into the long ‘Sweeper’ down there and made a mistake with a little miss-shift and lost the front. It was pretty easy, but then the bike got off into the grass and tumbled. I got off easy. My bad.”

Gagne’s day ended prematurely due to the crash, while his teammate Petersen’s day Wednesday got off to a slow start while he readjusted from riding a Pirelli-shod Yamaha YZF-R6 (in preparation for the Daytona 200) on Tuesday and getting back on his Dunlop-equipped Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike today.

 

Cameron Petersen (45) said his Yamaha was accelerating better than ever Wednesday. Photo by David Swarts.
Cameron Petersen (45) said his Yamaha was accelerating better than ever Wednesday. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“It definitely took me a session to readjust,” said Petersen. “I’ve been struggling all day, and we threw pretty much Jake’s setup on the bike that he finished up yesterday with, went out there, and did a 1:41.9. I came across the line and saw the 1:41.944 and I couldn’t believe it. I thought it was going to be mid-1:42s, high-1:42s. The bike is definitely a lot easier to ride. It accelerates off the corner like I’ve never felt before. The boys have found some good stuff, and I think these Yamahas are going to be weapons in 2023.”

Joining the factory Yamaha riders was Westby Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz, who was getting his first ride on his YZF-R1 Superbike – which was fitted with new engine management software — since the end of the 2022 race season.

 

Matthew Scholtz (11) was testing new engine management software at Buttonwillow. Photo by David Swarts.
Matthew Scholtz (11) was testing new engine management software at Buttonwillow. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“The main focus for us was to get back on the bike and ride,” Scholtz told Roadracingworld.com. “I was definitely a bit rusty and it was nice to knock the cobwebs off. I didn’t go as quick as I would have liked to [1:43.602], but we were working on trying the new components we have. We’ll obviously worry about the speed later, but for now I think we have a pretty good pace. Hopefully next time out, I’ll find some more pace.”

Gagne, Petersen, and Scholtz all used 2022-spec Dunlop slicks.

Another established MotoAmerica star at the two-day test was Kayla Yaakov, who was riding her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 Twins Cup machine. Her best lap time was an impressive 1:49.718.

 

Kayla Yaakov at speed on her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Photo by David Swarts.
Kayla Yaakov at speed on her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“The bike feels really good,” said 15-year-old Yaakov. “This is my second time on the bike, and I’ve already got a really good feeling with it. We started where we left off last time and made just some minor adjustments. Now, we’re just making the small changes that will make a difference in a race. And we’ve been putting down some hot laps. I’m really happy with the pace, but at the same time I know there’s still more. That’s exciting.”

Lap times are courtesy of California Roadrace Association (CRA).

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by MotoAmerica:

Gagne Leads The Way As Buttonwillow Test Concludes

Defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion On Pace In Two-Day Test

BUTTONWILLOW, CA (February 8, 2023) – Two days of semi-private team testing at Buttonwillow Racetrack Park ended on Wednesday with Fresh N’ Lean Progressive Yamaha’s Jake Gagne at the top of the heap for a second straight day, this time by just .69 of a second over his teammate Cameron Petersen.

Gagne’s day ended prematurely, however, with a tip-over mid-afternoon. Fortunately, the two-time MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion escaped uninjured, but opted to call it a day and start driving to his home in Colorado.

Gagne completed 21 laps on the day with his best lap a 1:41.875, which was .102 of a second faster than his best on day one.

 

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha's Jake Gagne (1) led the two-day test at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, February 7-8. Photo by Tucker Scott, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha’s Jake Gagne (1) led the two-day test at
Buttonwillow Raceway Park, February 7-8. Photo by Tucker Scott, courtesy MotoAmerica.

“We made some good progress,” Gagne said. “We were here earlier with some new parts, a swingarm and some stuff so where we came from with the last test to this test, I think we made a lot of progress with the bike. I’m a lot happier leaving here then when we left the last one (test). We learned a lot. I just made a mistake and threw it off into the grass. It was my bad. My foot was kind of under the shifter, which they told me not to do, of course. I was already in there and already did my shifts, but my foot was still under the shifter, and I got a little quick shifter blip when I was leaned over and that took weight off the front. It wasn’t that fast, but I got off in the soft grass over there and caught an edge. I’m still leaving here happy. We made a lot of progress, and we were going fast easier and that’s all that matters.”

After spending the first day testing the YZF-R6 that he will race in the Daytona 200 in March, Petersen was back on his Superbike on Wednesday, and he finished just off Gagne’s best with his 1:41.944 coming on his 28th of 36 laps.

“Great test,” Petersen said. “Yesterday, I was all day on the 600 so today we jumped on the big bike, and it took me a good session and a half to get used to a big bike again. We went through our whole test program, we had a bunch of stuff to test, and we ended up going faster than I’ve ever been around here other than on a qualifying tire. And it felt relatively easy, so there’s some big improvements on the motorcycle and we still have some stuff in the works. I think the bike will be even better two weeks from now when we come back. There’s nothing but smiles on my face and it gets me excited to go racing again.”

Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz was third fastest on the day, the South African improving to a 1:43.602 while testing new parts on his YZF-R1.

“It was just getting used to everything really, you know,” Scholtz said. “I haven’t ridden a proper Superbike since September of last year and I wasn’t able to do much motocross this offseason. So, it was really just getting used to the bike again and getting my brain up to speed. Honestly, I wish I would have gone faster but I think for now the main thing and focus is to get all the new parts up to speed and make sure we know what we’re doing. We will pick up speed, but for now we have to focus on working to get to the point of getting a good race setup and worrying about lap times then.”

MP13’s Kayla Yaakov had her second day on her YZF-R7, the youngster turning in an impressive 1:49.718. Yaakov will make her MotoAmerica REV’IT! Twins Cup debut at Daytona in March.

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.

WorldSBK: Kawasaki Factory Teams Unveil 2023 Liveries (Includes Video)

 

Joint KRT Unveil For 2023 Factory Teams

For the first time ever, both KRT racing enterprises have unveiled their new season colours and riders together in a joint video production.

Filmed in January at a secret location in Barcelona, the KRT MXGP team – with riders, Romain Febvre and Mitch Evans – joined forces with Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes, plus other team personnel from the KRT WorldSBK squad, for the first combined photo and video shoot to feature new team clothing and season starting graphics for their Ninja ZX-10RR and KX450-SR machines.

A busy Winter test period for both teams is now over. KRT WorldSBK depart soon for race one in Australia while KRT MXGP fly in the opposite direction to Argentina.

Keen to show off their new liveries, there is an infectious optimism across both outfits as they unite with a desire to attack their respective Championships seeking glory for a truly global fan base.

Guim Roda, KRT WorldSBK Team Manager, stated: “Racing is fun, enjoyable – a show – and we were happy to work together with the MXGP project to show this passion. The same passion we will attack 2023 with, the same motivation to enter each race to fight until the last lap for the victory. We worked hard to polish some details, improve our bike and the organisation of the team to try to win the title again. More important than that, we want to make the fans enjoy watching the races, and hopefully make sure a green bike stays on top. Johnny and Alex are ready to go with fully recharged batteries, so let’s see at the Australian round how strongly we have arrived in this new season.”

Antti Pyrhönen, KRT MXGP Team Manager, stated: “We are looking forward to the 2023 season. Our goals are set high. The riders and team are working very hard and we are united to reach these targets. We have the most competitive bike in our KX450-SR, very professional staff and great partners – so let the season begin.”

 

Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Alex Lowes KRT WorldSBK stated:  “I love how the bike looks. I really like the 2023 design. Last year I had some quite good speed, strong qualifying performances and I could hang with the top three. As the race went on, when the grip dropped, I was struggling a little bit more. That is an area we have focused on. I am really looking forward to the year. I have had a good winter of training and I really can’t wait to get started. It may be a few years now that I have been in the Superbike World Championship but I am still excited like it is the first time; like I felt back in 2014. Now I am looking forward to getting to Australia and getting down to business.”

 

Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Jonathan Rea KRT WorldSBK, stated: “I am really excited about this new season. We had a really solid off season. I am also excited to go to Phillip Island and start the year in what seems to us like a more normal way. I feel that I have prepared really well away from the track, and during the winter tests we have improved, which is very motivating. It’s nice to have some new people around and that itself brings a different feel. I am eager to get going. We have made progress with the bike and are working hard to try to improve our feeling and results from last season. Hopefully we can challenge for race wins and fight for a world title.”

Romain Febvre KRT MXGP stated: “My biggest hope is not to be injured; this is the main thing for me. I need to demonstrate enough intelligence to push when I need to push and maybe to settle back when I need to. This is my biggest thing to deal with. I feel that I have the speed and at the moment, fitness-wise, I am pretty good also. It is exciting to be racing again. I know the final results will be there, so let’s see how it goes in Argentina first, and then step-by-step I will see where we are and what I have to work on.”

Mitch Evans KRT MXGP stated: “My hopes and ambitions for the 2023 season are to stay healthy and make it to all the rounds. I want to start to be a top contender and fight for wins week-in/week-out and finish the year top three in the championship. I want to start building towards being a title contender in the future.”

Watch the KRT Launch video here 

Aprilia Racers Days Track Day Schedule Released

APRILIA ANNOUNCES 2023 NORTH AMERICA “APRILIA RACERS DAYS” TRACK PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Program brings premium on-track experience to riders of all skill levels on some of North America’s premiere racing circuits

Participants will have demo opportunities with Aprilia’s full line-up of 2023 RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660 and Tuono 660 models

Technical partnerships with Pirelli, Dainese and AGV help make the program possible, while adding immersive experiences for participants

An immersive Aprilia Racing School experience will also be available at select rounds

NEW YORK, NY – February 8, 2023 – Aprilia USA has announced the 2023 dates for the Aprilia Racers Days track-day program. The immersive program allows customers to experience not only the latest Aprilia motorcycle models on track, but also the latest protection equipment from Dainese and AGV, along with performance tires from Pirelli.

Hosted at eight of the most storied North American circuits in motorsport, Aprilia Racers Days continues to grow a community of motorcycle enthusiasts and track riders. Each event will include the full street range from Aprilia, including the RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660 and Tuono 660 models. Riders may also bring their own motorcycles to the events for additional track time with riding groups based on skill level. The program includes coaching for all group levels, as well as professional photography and tailored experiences from technical partners Pirelli, Dainese and AGV.

Aprilia Racers Days events will be supported directly by Aprilia-trained technicians and product specialists, as well as representatives from Pirelli, Dainese and AGV to offer the best on-track experience with expert advice, performance and protection. Students riding all marques are welcome to participate and will receive guidance and tips to help develop safer, more capable and faster riders on track.

The Aprilia Racing School will also be available to interested riders at select events. The racing school is highly dedicated to individual riders with instruction on the more technical aspects of riding on track, including mental focus, track visualization and advanced techniques related to trail braking, corner entry and exit, and more.

2023 EVENT SCHEDULE

Circuit of the Americas
Monday, April 17, 2023

Road Atlanta
Monday, April 24, 2023

Pittsburgh International Race Complex
Monday, May 8, 2023

Autobahn Country Club Chicago
Monday, June 12, 2023

The Ridge Motorsports Park
Monday, June 26, 2023
Aprilia Racing School also available

Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca
Monday, July 17, 2023

Shannonville Motorsport Park
Monday, September 18, 2023

New Jersey Motorsports Park
Monday, September 25, 2023
Aprilia Racing School also available

Each circuit will be supported by Aprilia Racers Days partner Pirelli, where each Aprilia motorcycle will be shod with their newest sport offering, the street-to-track performance-focused Diablo Rosso™ IV Corsa.

Dainese will have master tailors from its Custom Works program available for fittings and consultations, and professionals from Dainese D-Stores will offer a demo fleet of D-Air suits for both men and women. There will also be AGV helmets for participants to try on and experience why many top riders in world-class racing turn to AGV as their helmet of choice.

For more information: http://www.aprilia.com/

MORE INFORMATION – USA

MORE INFORMATION – CANADA

MotoAmerica: DiBrino Racing MV Agusta At Selected Supersport Rounds

Andy DiBrino To Race Select Supersport Rounds For Competition Werkes MV Agusta

Andy DiBrino is bringing MV Agusta back to the MotoAmerica grid for select rounds in the Supersport class with a new collaboration between Competition Werkes and DiBrino Racing. Competition Werkes MV Agusta is an Oregon-based team with technical support being provided by EDR Performance, which is also Oregon-based.

The latest MV Agusta F3 RR is an 800cc three-cylinder machine that boasts 147hp. The F3 RR won a World Supersport race last year and is expected to be a competitive machine with the Supersport Next-Generation rules MotoAmerica has for the Supersport class. The plan is for DiBrino to race these select Supersport rounds on the MV Agusta F3 RR:

June 2-4 Road America, WI

June 23-25 Ridge Motorsports Park, WA

July 7-9 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA

September 8-10 Circuit of The Americas, TX

September 22-24 New Jersey Motorsports Park, NJ

Here is what DiBrino had to say about racing the MV Agusta F3 RR for Competition Werkes MV Agusta:

“I’m so excited about this opportunity to race the MV Agusta and very thankful for the support of everyone involved.  When news dropped towards the end of 2022 that KTM had acquired majority stake in MV Agusta, it was MotoAmerica’s Greg White who immediately pitched the idea to me about racing the F3 RR in Supersport. I was looking for a change for 2023 and it was the perfect storm for this to all happen on such short notice. If all goes well, I think we could be testing the bike at the end of April. I’ve ridden an F3 EDR built in the past and loved it, so I am dying to get on the new bike and get after it! I think it’s going to be a fun change for me moving into the Supersport class this year representing Competition Werkes and MV Agusta!”

To follow these racing efforts, follow Andy DiBrino on social media: @andy_dibrino on Instagram, Andy DiBrino Racing on Facebook, and Andy DiBrino on YouTube.

For sponsorship inquiries, contact info is available at dibrinoracing.com.

About Andy DiBrino

Andy DiBrino is a 28-year-old professional motorcycle racer from Tualatin, Oregon, who hold track records all over the West Coast and has been a three-time OMRRA #1 plate holder. In the MotoAmerica series, he has multiple podiums to his name in Stock 1000, Superstock 600, RSD Super Hooligan, including a win in RSD Super Hooligan at Daytona. DiBrino is well-known for being one of the most versatile racers in the country, competing in road racing, motocross, flat track, supermoto and even Red Bull Straight Rhythm.

About Competition Werkes

Competition Werkes is based out of Sutherlin, Oregon. They are known for high-quality aftermarket motorcycle accessories and slip-on exhausts. Each exhaust is hand-welded at their shop in Oregon. For more information about Competition Werkes, visit competitionwerkes.com.

About EDR Performance

EDR Performance is a motorcycle repair and performance shop in Beaverton, Oregon, that is known worldwide for their attention to detail in service. For over 24 years EDR Performance has brought to the market top name brands, proven service and the highest quality items for riders and racers of all kinds. For more information about EDR Performance, visit edrperformance.com.

AMA Adds Staff To Racing Department

American Motorcyclist Association Adds Talent to its Racing Department
Hires Jeff Canfield and Michael Jolly full time

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association has added two experienced racing managers to its full-time ranks — Jeff Canfield and Michael Jolly. The pair have been involved with the AMA and AMA-sanctioned pro and amateur racing for years as contractors but are now full-time employees.

Canfield will hold the position of Racing Manager and will be responsible for a wide range of duties on the AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross fronts.

Jolly will fill the Off-Road Racing Manager position and be involved in all aspects of the AMA’s substantial amateur racing activities, including transnational events such as the International Six Days Enduro.

“The AMA is excited to announce the full-time hiring of Jeff and Mike,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “They not only possess significant experience in the world of motorcycle racing, but they also know the AMA and how it operates and will hit the ground running in their respective roles. I have worked with both of them over the years, and we’re looking forward to great things in 2023 and beyond.”

 

AMA's new Racing Manager Jeff Canfield. Photo courtesy AMA.
AMA’s new Racing Manager Jeff Canfield. Photo courtesy AMA.

 

Canfield has been a motorcyclist from an early age.

“On my ninth birthday I got my first motorcycle, a Yamaha 60,” says Canfield, “and from that day on I was hooked. I started racing flat track, TT and hare scrambles locally in upstate New York and competed in the amateur national championship for dirt track in ’82, ’83 and ’86.

“I flagged a bunch of AMA Motocross Nationals in the late 1980s,” Canfield added, “and some AMA Supercross events, too, when they came to area venues. In 2000 I sold my house and traveled with both series, doing various jobs, and after several years ended up as Race Director of the Pro Motocross Championship, which I’ve done for the last 14 years in addition to working Race Control during AMA Supercross events. I have been truly blessed to work with and see many of the world’s best motocross and AMA Supercross riders, and I am very excited about this new opportunity with the AMA.”

Jolly got the motorcycling bug early in life, as well.

“My Dad was a founding member of the Appalachian Dirt Riders club,” says Jolly, “so I was involved pretty early; I actually started laying out and tacking arrows for National enduros at 10 years old! I have competed in all forms of off-road racing over the past 25 years, and have worked part-time for the AMA since 2015, primarily coordinating ISDE efforts. I’m excited for this new opportunity to help the AMA in all aspects of off-road racing.”

The AMA is currently hiring for multiple positions. To see these opportunities, check out AmericanMotorcyclist.com/careers/.

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.

 

MotoAmerica: Yamaha Riders Testing At Buttonwillow

Several MotoAmerica racers were testing on their Yamahas today at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, in Buttonwillow, California.

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha’s two-time and defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne was quickest overall with a time of 1:42.077 while riding his YZF-R1 Superbike on the 3.0-mile road course.

Westby Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz was second-best with a lap of 1:44.428 on his YZF-R1 Superbike.

Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen spent all of Tuesday testing the Attack Performance Yamaha YZF-R6 he plans to ride in the Daytona 200 MotoAmerica Supersport race on March 11. Petersen clocked a best time of 1:46.389.

The trio of men were joined by 15-year-old Kayla Yaakov, who recorded a 1:50.922 on her MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 MotoAmerica Twins Cup bike.

Lap times were provided by the California Roadrace Association (CRA).

American Flat Track: Royal Enfield Renews As Official OEM Partner

Royal Enfield North America Named Official OEM Partner of Progressive AFT Again in 2023

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 7, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track and Royal Enfield North America (RENA) today confirmed their multifaceted partnership has been renewed ahead of the upcoming 2023 Progressive AFT season.

The innovative collaboration between America’s Original Extreme Sport and the world’s oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production is entering its fourth year of partnership. And as an Official OEM Partner, Royal Enfield will continue to engage and entertain Progressive American Flat Track fans with its line of modern classic motorcycles in multiple ways.

Royal Enfield has enjoyed an impressive degree of success on the racetrack as its racing effort continues to evolve. Since the Royal Enfield Twins FT made its debut in 2020, the team has celebrated multiple podiums in the Mission Production Twins class, including a historic win at the Lima Half Mile in 2021 – a first-ever feat for the historic brand. Royal Enfield is looking forward to continuing its venture into the competitive ranks of Progressive American Flat Track, as well as continuing the evolution of the Twins FT motorcycle with the versatile and accomplished Johnny Lewis once again leading the charge.

Throughout its partnership with the series, Royal Enfield has endeavored not just to expand its reach, but to actively grow the sport at a grassroots level and introduce it to new audiences. Chief among those efforts is the hugely popular Build. Train. Race. (BTR) program, which highlights, celebrates, and encourages the involvement of women in flat track racing. BTR has injected new talent into Progressive American Flat Track events across the nation, welcoming both experienced and beginner racers to compete aboard customized INT650 motorcycles. Royal Enfield aims to continue this innovative program in 2023 at select Progressive AFT rounds.

“Royal Enfield has already accomplished so much through our participation in Progressive American Flat Track, it was an easy decision to continue that relationship,” said Adrian Sellers, Royal Enfield Head – Custom Program & Motorsport. “Royal Enfield is a 120-year-old brand but still very young when it comes to competition. The development and success of the Twins FT motorcycle have brought a lot of excitement to the company, which is on course for a landmark year with all-new models, and the continuation of our groundbreaking programs that open doors to new riders and racers. We look forward to sharing another milestone year with Progressive AFT and its fans.”

Progressive AFT fans will also get to check out Royal Enfield’s street models first hand in the Progressive AFT Marketplace, with the historic marque’s stunning new models – the Scram 411 and all-new Super Meteor 650 mid-sized cruiser – taking center stage.

“Royal Enfield has established itself as one of the fastest growing brands in motorcycling and one of the most innovative partners of Progressive American Flat Track,” said Gene Crouch, COO of AMA Pro Racing. “Not content to rest on its storied past, Royal Enfield continues to make history through one-of-a-kind marketing activations and creative advertising campaigns. We look forward to partnering with them in 2023 and showcasing the Build. Train. Race program at select Progressive AFT events again this season.”

The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at the Flat Track at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfieldNA.com.

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

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2023 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.

About Royal Enfield

The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.

Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 150 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S. and Canada. RENA currently offers the all-new Classic 350, Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.

About Progressive American Flat Track

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

MotoGP: RNF Riders Looking To Understand Aprilias Better At Sepang

New beginnings with Oliveira and Fernandez

Three days of testing at the Sepang International circuit mark a fresh start for the RNF MotoGP Team this week.

A long MotoGP winter break comes to an end this weekend with the first official test in 2023 at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Thereby, the RNF MotoGP Team will hit the tarmac re-branded with new machinery and new riders. After a first successful roll-out for one day in Valencia in November 2022, Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez are eager to kick off the new season on three days of testing from Friday to Sunday.

The main objective, for both, Oliveira and Fernandez, is to get to know their Aprilia RS-GP machines better during this official test. The Portuguese five-times MotoGP winner and the young Spaniard, who is about to embark on his second season in the premier class, aim to use the track time at their best in order to be prepared for the upcoming 21 rounds of the year which include a sprint race and a main race per event.

The Sepang International Circuit is open for action from 10:00 to 18:00 from Friday to Sunday plus 15 minutes of start practice each evening. After this first tryst this year in Malaysia, Oliveira and Fernandez will have another two days of testing at Portimao, Portugal in March followed by RNF MotoGP Team’s launch on March 16th to present the official colors for this 2023 season.
 

Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.
Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

MIGUEL OLIVEIRA

“It would be super nice, if I could be close to Aleix (Espargaro) and Maverick (Viñales) in this test. It’s definitely a goal to be near the factory guys. We are expecting some little things to test, not a lot though. Our main job is to build a strong base and understand what can work for me and what might not work. It’s a test, where we will filter a couple of things. The base is just me getting used to the bike.”

 

Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

RAUL FERNANDEZ

“It will be very interesting to have three days of test, because so far, we had only one. To be honest, the conditions in Valencia haven’t been perfect and at the end of a long season, also my physical condition was not perfect there. So, I’m very happy to be back on the bike this week. I think I will enjoy riding like a kid.”

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal RNF MotoGP Team

“We simply can’t wait for the first official test for 2023 this week in Sepang, our home circuit. It’s been a long break. As a team we are re-branding and re-structuring for the 2023 season, so we didn’t stop working after the Valencia test and have been busy behind the scenes planning for the new season. Also, the team had a good schooling class at the Aprilia Racing Factory in Noale and to close the year with a nice and welcoming Christmas Party hosted by Aprilia.”

“I look forward to see all the team members again and of course the riders, Miguel and Raul. I’ve organized some cycling sessions with them to get them acclimatized to the hot and humid conditions quickly. More important, it is to understand from the Aprilia factory and our crew chiefs on the test objectives for both riders.”

“For the test, we don’t have special expectations. We will understand more once the team gets together with technical discussions with Aprilia to really understand what would be the test targets for both our riders. We can’t wait!”
 

Wilco Zeelenberg, RNF MotoGP Team Manager

“We are really looking forward to work with the new material and moreover we are excited about the way that the riders are able to connect with their bikes. That’s what it will be all about in the coming tests. For Miguel and Raul the key is to try to adapt as fast as possible to those new bikes for them. After one day in Valencia, it looked quite good. Although it wasn’t easy, as obviously each bike has his own advantages and disadvantages.”

“For them it is about to find out track by track, how to ride and how to deal with everything. This has our big priority for the test. Setup-wise, we have a lot of material and we officially start the season with our new partner, CryptoDATA and Aprilia. I look forward to the sun in Malaysia and to a fresh start. Hopefully we are able to keep our focus on racing bikes, everything is new with new vibes and new ideas, but my priority is to keep focused on racing and results.”

Test Ride An Indian FTR For A Chance To Win A Custom “FTR Loeb”

Test ride any Indian FTR for a chance to win a custom ‘FTR Loeb’ designed by Sébastien Loeb and Tank Machine

 ‘FTR Loeb’ celebrates Loeb’s nine World Rally Championships & his passion for motorcycles

Winner to be presented with their ‘FTR Loeb’ during a VIP trip to Wheels & Waves

Matching pair of the design to be built – one for Loeb & one for the winner

Indian Motorcycle has announced a test ride campaign that will see one lucky winner presented with one of just two special Indian FTR custom machines designed by Sebastien Loeb and built by renowned French builder, Tank Machine. Making this prize even more exclusive, the second of the two unique FTR ‘Loeb’ machines to be built will be presented to Loeb himself, making this a truly special and unique prize.

Between February 8th and May 15th, riders in participating countries can qualify for this once in a lifetime chance by registering online, selecting an Indian Motorcycle dealer, and visiting that dealer to take a test ride on any model from the Indian FTR lineup.

 

Sébastien Loeb in his car at the 2021 Dakar Rally. Photo by DPPI-Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Sébastien Loeb in his car at the 2021 Dakar Rally. Photo by DPPI-Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

 

From World Rally to World Touring Cars, Pikes Peak to the Dakar Rally, Rallycross to Xtreme E and more, Sébastien Loeb’s exceptional career has seen him display his legendary skills across a multitude of disciplines while setting records along the way. What is less known is that Sébastien Loeb discovered his passion for motorsports in regional moped events before trying his hand at motorcycle racing on circuits and in enduro.

Although more often seen behind the wheel, Loeb loves to ride motorcycles on the road or track whenever he can, and since collaborating with Indian Motorcycle in February 2022 as an ambassador for the brand, has been an enthusiastic rider of his Indian FTR R Carbon.

 

Sébastien Loeb with his Indian FTR R Carbon. Photo by DPPI - Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Sébastien Loeb with his Indian FTR R Carbon. Photo by DPPI – Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

 

“Motorcycling has always been a passion of mine and my career could have been so different if the right opportunity in motorcycle racing had presented itself before my move to four wheels. Riding is a unique experience, a whole different world of sensations compared to driving a car, and the FTR was just the perfect choice for me,” said Sébastien Loeb.

“I’ve become a big fan of the FTR’s unique style and performance, so to be asked to create a one-off build with Tank Machine was a real honour. I can’t wait to see the finished bike and I am sure the winner will love their FTR as much as I will.”

Celebrating his nine World Rally championships and his passion for motorcycles, Loeb and Tank Machine have envisioned the ‘FTR Loeb’ as a unique interpretation of the American V-twin which Tank Machine will now bring to life in metal and paint over the coming months.

Tank Machine and Indian Motorcycles have regularly collaborated on many projects since the creation of the Super Scout in 2016, which was also presented to a competition winner.

The lucky winner will be randomly selected at the end of May ready to be whisked away on a VIP trip to Wheels & Waves in June meet the Tank Machine team and be presented with their ‘FTR Loeb’.

Participating Countries / Registration Links:

Belgique

FR https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/fr/ftr-loeb-form/

FL https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/fl/ftr-loeb-form/

Cyprus             https://www.indianmotorcyclecyprus.com/ftr-loeb-form/

France             https://www.indianmotorcycle.fr/ftr-loeb-form/

Germany         https://www.indianmotorcycle.de/ftr-loeb-form/

Luxembourg    https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/lu/ftr-loeb-form/

Netherlands    https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/ftr-loeb-form/

Poland             https://www.indianpoland.com/ftr-loeb-form/

Portugal          https://www.indianmotorcycle.pt/ftr-loeb-form/

South Africa    https://www.indianmotorcycle.co.za/ftr-loeb-form/

Spain               https://www.indianmotorcycle.es/ftr-loeb-form/

Switzerland

CH-DE https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/ftr-loeb-form/

CH-FR https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/fr/ftr-loeb-form/

CH-IT https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/it/ftr-loeb-form/

UK     https://www.indianmotorcycle.co.uk/ftr-loeb-form/

For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Mesa Wins Five PanAmerican Superbike Races At Homestead

Stefano Mesa (37). Photo by Phenry Photography, courtesy PanAmerican Superbike.
Stefano Mesa (37). Photo by Phenry Photography, courtesy PanAmerican Superbike.

Mesa Takes Five Wins in PanAmerican Superbike 2023 Opening Round

The 2023 season for PanAmerican SuperBike (PanAmSBK) kicked off this past weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Stefano Mesa dominated the weekend with five race wins. Stefano swept the SuperBike 1000 class with wins in the Grande Cora and Sprint races. He also completed the sweep of the Formula Twins class with a first place finish in both the Grande Corsa and Sprint races. To round out the weekend, Mesa added a race win the SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa.

In the 600 class, we saw Diego Perez finish in the top spot of the podium in all three of his races. He swept the SuperBike 600 class by winning the Grande Corsa and Sprint race. Perez’s third race win came in the SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa.

PanAmSBK rookie, Agustin Sierra, made a huge impression in the Amateur class by riding his BMW S1000RR to race wins in the SuperBike 1000 Grande Corsa, SuperBike 1000 Sprint, and Euro Max Sprint. Along with his race wins, Sierra was able to add two second place finishes in the SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa and SuperStock 1000 Sprint races!

The young guns in the paddock made their presence known. Leading off the weekend, Avery Dreher finished in third place in the Expert SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa. While Dreher is no stranger to the podium, this weekend was Avery’s first race in the 600 class!

In the second race of the weekend, we witnessed another young racer take the top podium spot. Ella Dreher in only her third race PanAmSBK race weekend won the Amateur SuperStreet 300 Grande Corsa. After a couple strong showings last season, this race win was Dreher’s first race win! Later in the day, she completed the sweep by winning the Amateur SuperStreet 300 Sprint race! To continue the streak of firsts, Dreher won the inaugural Amateur SuperBike 400 Sprint race where she was racing up a class against 400 and Moto3 bikes!

As the sun sets on the round 1, we now turn our attention towards round 2. For the next round, PanAmSBK heads to The Big Easy. That’s right! Racing returns to NOLA Motorsports Park. For those new to the track, Friday will be a practice day followed by our usual Saturday and Sunday schedule.

For more racing information visit:

www.PanAmSbk.com

Full Season Championship Results and Individual Race Results are conveniently available online at:

https://www.panamsbk.com/championships/

 

or follow us on social media:

www.instagram.com/panamsbk

www.facebook.com/panamsbk

MotoAmerica: Gagne Fastest In Spite Of Crash At Buttonwillow Test (Updated)

Jake Gagne (1) testing Wednesday at Buttonwillow Raceway Park. Photo by David Swarts.
Jake Gagne (1) testing in February at Buttonwillow Raceway Park. Photo by David Swarts.

Two-time and defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne was fastest for a second straight day at a two-day private test at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, in California, but the Colorado resident’s day Wednesday ended early with a crash and his teammate Cameron Petersen right on his heels in terms of lap times.

“The biggest thing is we have a new swingarm that we just got at the last test, in January,” said Gagne, who posted a 1:41.875 Wednesday on his Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha YZF-R1. “We did make a lot of progress with the swingarm and some chassis stuff from last test to this test, so it went good. I ended with a little crash, but overall, it went good and I’m happy.”

Asked about the crash, an uninjured Gagne explained, “I just got into the long ‘Sweeper’ down there and made a mistake with a little miss-shift and lost the front. It was pretty easy, but then the bike got off into the grass and tumbled. I got off easy. My bad.”

Gagne’s day ended prematurely due to the crash, while his teammate Petersen’s day Wednesday got off to a slow start while he readjusted from riding a Pirelli-shod Yamaha YZF-R6 (in preparation for the Daytona 200) on Tuesday and getting back on his Dunlop-equipped Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike today.

 

Cameron Petersen (45) said his Yamaha was accelerating better than ever Wednesday. Photo by David Swarts.
Cameron Petersen (45) said his Yamaha was accelerating better than ever Wednesday. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“It definitely took me a session to readjust,” said Petersen. “I’ve been struggling all day, and we threw pretty much Jake’s setup on the bike that he finished up yesterday with, went out there, and did a 1:41.9. I came across the line and saw the 1:41.944 and I couldn’t believe it. I thought it was going to be mid-1:42s, high-1:42s. The bike is definitely a lot easier to ride. It accelerates off the corner like I’ve never felt before. The boys have found some good stuff, and I think these Yamahas are going to be weapons in 2023.”

Joining the factory Yamaha riders was Westby Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz, who was getting his first ride on his YZF-R1 Superbike – which was fitted with new engine management software — since the end of the 2022 race season.

 

Matthew Scholtz (11) was testing new engine management software at Buttonwillow. Photo by David Swarts.
Matthew Scholtz (11) was testing new engine management software at Buttonwillow. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“The main focus for us was to get back on the bike and ride,” Scholtz told Roadracingworld.com. “I was definitely a bit rusty and it was nice to knock the cobwebs off. I didn’t go as quick as I would have liked to [1:43.602], but we were working on trying the new components we have. We’ll obviously worry about the speed later, but for now I think we have a pretty good pace. Hopefully next time out, I’ll find some more pace.”

Gagne, Petersen, and Scholtz all used 2022-spec Dunlop slicks.

Another established MotoAmerica star at the two-day test was Kayla Yaakov, who was riding her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 Twins Cup machine. Her best lap time was an impressive 1:49.718.

 

Kayla Yaakov at speed on her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Photo by David Swarts.
Kayla Yaakov at speed on her new MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7. Photo by David Swarts.

 

“The bike feels really good,” said 15-year-old Yaakov. “This is my second time on the bike, and I’ve already got a really good feeling with it. We started where we left off last time and made just some minor adjustments. Now, we’re just making the small changes that will make a difference in a race. And we’ve been putting down some hot laps. I’m really happy with the pace, but at the same time I know there’s still more. That’s exciting.”

Lap times are courtesy of California Roadrace Association (CRA).

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by MotoAmerica:

Gagne Leads The Way As Buttonwillow Test Concludes

Defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion On Pace In Two-Day Test

BUTTONWILLOW, CA (February 8, 2023) – Two days of semi-private team testing at Buttonwillow Racetrack Park ended on Wednesday with Fresh N’ Lean Progressive Yamaha’s Jake Gagne at the top of the heap for a second straight day, this time by just .69 of a second over his teammate Cameron Petersen.

Gagne’s day ended prematurely, however, with a tip-over mid-afternoon. Fortunately, the two-time MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion escaped uninjured, but opted to call it a day and start driving to his home in Colorado.

Gagne completed 21 laps on the day with his best lap a 1:41.875, which was .102 of a second faster than his best on day one.

 

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha's Jake Gagne (1) led the two-day test at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, February 7-8. Photo by Tucker Scott, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha’s Jake Gagne (1) led the two-day test at
Buttonwillow Raceway Park, February 7-8. Photo by Tucker Scott, courtesy MotoAmerica.

“We made some good progress,” Gagne said. “We were here earlier with some new parts, a swingarm and some stuff so where we came from with the last test to this test, I think we made a lot of progress with the bike. I’m a lot happier leaving here then when we left the last one (test). We learned a lot. I just made a mistake and threw it off into the grass. It was my bad. My foot was kind of under the shifter, which they told me not to do, of course. I was already in there and already did my shifts, but my foot was still under the shifter, and I got a little quick shifter blip when I was leaned over and that took weight off the front. It wasn’t that fast, but I got off in the soft grass over there and caught an edge. I’m still leaving here happy. We made a lot of progress, and we were going fast easier and that’s all that matters.”

After spending the first day testing the YZF-R6 that he will race in the Daytona 200 in March, Petersen was back on his Superbike on Wednesday, and he finished just off Gagne’s best with his 1:41.944 coming on his 28th of 36 laps.

“Great test,” Petersen said. “Yesterday, I was all day on the 600 so today we jumped on the big bike, and it took me a good session and a half to get used to a big bike again. We went through our whole test program, we had a bunch of stuff to test, and we ended up going faster than I’ve ever been around here other than on a qualifying tire. And it felt relatively easy, so there’s some big improvements on the motorcycle and we still have some stuff in the works. I think the bike will be even better two weeks from now when we come back. There’s nothing but smiles on my face and it gets me excited to go racing again.”

Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz was third fastest on the day, the South African improving to a 1:43.602 while testing new parts on his YZF-R1.

“It was just getting used to everything really, you know,” Scholtz said. “I haven’t ridden a proper Superbike since September of last year and I wasn’t able to do much motocross this offseason. So, it was really just getting used to the bike again and getting my brain up to speed. Honestly, I wish I would have gone faster but I think for now the main thing and focus is to get all the new parts up to speed and make sure we know what we’re doing. We will pick up speed, but for now we have to focus on working to get to the point of getting a good race setup and worrying about lap times then.”

MP13’s Kayla Yaakov had her second day on her YZF-R7, the youngster turning in an impressive 1:49.718. Yaakov will make her MotoAmerica REV’IT! Twins Cup debut at Daytona in March.

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.

WorldSBK: Kawasaki Factory Teams Unveil 2023 Liveries (Includes Video)

(From left) Alex Lowes, Jonathan Rea, Romain Febvre, and Mitch Evans. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
(From left) Alex Lowes, Jonathan Rea, Romain Febvre, and Mitch Evans. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

 

Joint KRT Unveil For 2023 Factory Teams

For the first time ever, both KRT racing enterprises have unveiled their new season colours and riders together in a joint video production.

Filmed in January at a secret location in Barcelona, the KRT MXGP team – with riders, Romain Febvre and Mitch Evans – joined forces with Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes, plus other team personnel from the KRT WorldSBK squad, for the first combined photo and video shoot to feature new team clothing and season starting graphics for their Ninja ZX-10RR and KX450-SR machines.

A busy Winter test period for both teams is now over. KRT WorldSBK depart soon for race one in Australia while KRT MXGP fly in the opposite direction to Argentina.

Keen to show off their new liveries, there is an infectious optimism across both outfits as they unite with a desire to attack their respective Championships seeking glory for a truly global fan base.

Guim Roda, KRT WorldSBK Team Manager, stated: “Racing is fun, enjoyable – a show – and we were happy to work together with the MXGP project to show this passion. The same passion we will attack 2023 with, the same motivation to enter each race to fight until the last lap for the victory. We worked hard to polish some details, improve our bike and the organisation of the team to try to win the title again. More important than that, we want to make the fans enjoy watching the races, and hopefully make sure a green bike stays on top. Johnny and Alex are ready to go with fully recharged batteries, so let’s see at the Australian round how strongly we have arrived in this new season.”

Antti Pyrhönen, KRT MXGP Team Manager, stated: “We are looking forward to the 2023 season. Our goals are set high. The riders and team are working very hard and we are united to reach these targets. We have the most competitive bike in our KX450-SR, very professional staff and great partners – so let the season begin.”

 

Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Alex Lowes KRT WorldSBK stated:  “I love how the bike looks. I really like the 2023 design. Last year I had some quite good speed, strong qualifying performances and I could hang with the top three. As the race went on, when the grip dropped, I was struggling a little bit more. That is an area we have focused on. I am really looking forward to the year. I have had a good winter of training and I really can’t wait to get started. It may be a few years now that I have been in the Superbike World Championship but I am still excited like it is the first time; like I felt back in 2014. Now I am looking forward to getting to Australia and getting down to business.”

 

Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Jonathan Rea KRT WorldSBK, stated: “I am really excited about this new season. We had a really solid off season. I am also excited to go to Phillip Island and start the year in what seems to us like a more normal way. I feel that I have prepared really well away from the track, and during the winter tests we have improved, which is very motivating. It’s nice to have some new people around and that itself brings a different feel. I am eager to get going. We have made progress with the bike and are working hard to try to improve our feeling and results from last season. Hopefully we can challenge for race wins and fight for a world title.”

Romain Febvre KRT MXGP stated: “My biggest hope is not to be injured; this is the main thing for me. I need to demonstrate enough intelligence to push when I need to push and maybe to settle back when I need to. This is my biggest thing to deal with. I feel that I have the speed and at the moment, fitness-wise, I am pretty good also. It is exciting to be racing again. I know the final results will be there, so let’s see how it goes in Argentina first, and then step-by-step I will see where we are and what I have to work on.”

Mitch Evans KRT MXGP stated: “My hopes and ambitions for the 2023 season are to stay healthy and make it to all the rounds. I want to start to be a top contender and fight for wins week-in/week-out and finish the year top three in the championship. I want to start building towards being a title contender in the future.”

Watch the KRT Launch video here 

Aprilia Racers Days Track Day Schedule Released

A rider at a previous Aprilia Racers Days track event. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
A rider at a previous Aprilia Racers Days track event. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

APRILIA ANNOUNCES 2023 NORTH AMERICA “APRILIA RACERS DAYS” TRACK PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Program brings premium on-track experience to riders of all skill levels on some of North America’s premiere racing circuits

Participants will have demo opportunities with Aprilia’s full line-up of 2023 RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660 and Tuono 660 models

Technical partnerships with Pirelli, Dainese and AGV help make the program possible, while adding immersive experiences for participants

An immersive Aprilia Racing School experience will also be available at select rounds

NEW YORK, NY – February 8, 2023 – Aprilia USA has announced the 2023 dates for the Aprilia Racers Days track-day program. The immersive program allows customers to experience not only the latest Aprilia motorcycle models on track, but also the latest protection equipment from Dainese and AGV, along with performance tires from Pirelli.

Hosted at eight of the most storied North American circuits in motorsport, Aprilia Racers Days continues to grow a community of motorcycle enthusiasts and track riders. Each event will include the full street range from Aprilia, including the RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660 and Tuono 660 models. Riders may also bring their own motorcycles to the events for additional track time with riding groups based on skill level. The program includes coaching for all group levels, as well as professional photography and tailored experiences from technical partners Pirelli, Dainese and AGV.

Aprilia Racers Days events will be supported directly by Aprilia-trained technicians and product specialists, as well as representatives from Pirelli, Dainese and AGV to offer the best on-track experience with expert advice, performance and protection. Students riding all marques are welcome to participate and will receive guidance and tips to help develop safer, more capable and faster riders on track.

The Aprilia Racing School will also be available to interested riders at select events. The racing school is highly dedicated to individual riders with instruction on the more technical aspects of riding on track, including mental focus, track visualization and advanced techniques related to trail braking, corner entry and exit, and more.

2023 EVENT SCHEDULE

Circuit of the Americas
Monday, April 17, 2023

Road Atlanta
Monday, April 24, 2023

Pittsburgh International Race Complex
Monday, May 8, 2023

Autobahn Country Club Chicago
Monday, June 12, 2023

The Ridge Motorsports Park
Monday, June 26, 2023
Aprilia Racing School also available

Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca
Monday, July 17, 2023

Shannonville Motorsport Park
Monday, September 18, 2023

New Jersey Motorsports Park
Monday, September 25, 2023
Aprilia Racing School also available

Each circuit will be supported by Aprilia Racers Days partner Pirelli, where each Aprilia motorcycle will be shod with their newest sport offering, the street-to-track performance-focused Diablo Rosso™ IV Corsa.

Dainese will have master tailors from its Custom Works program available for fittings and consultations, and professionals from Dainese D-Stores will offer a demo fleet of D-Air suits for both men and women. There will also be AGV helmets for participants to try on and experience why many top riders in world-class racing turn to AGV as their helmet of choice.

For more information: http://www.aprilia.com/

MORE INFORMATION – USA

MORE INFORMATION – CANADA

MotoAmerica: DiBrino Racing MV Agusta At Selected Supersport Rounds

Andy DiBrino and his new MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy DiBrino Racing.
Andy DiBrino and his new MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy DiBrino Racing.

Andy DiBrino To Race Select Supersport Rounds For Competition Werkes MV Agusta

Andy DiBrino is bringing MV Agusta back to the MotoAmerica grid for select rounds in the Supersport class with a new collaboration between Competition Werkes and DiBrino Racing. Competition Werkes MV Agusta is an Oregon-based team with technical support being provided by EDR Performance, which is also Oregon-based.

The latest MV Agusta F3 RR is an 800cc three-cylinder machine that boasts 147hp. The F3 RR won a World Supersport race last year and is expected to be a competitive machine with the Supersport Next-Generation rules MotoAmerica has for the Supersport class. The plan is for DiBrino to race these select Supersport rounds on the MV Agusta F3 RR:

June 2-4 Road America, WI

June 23-25 Ridge Motorsports Park, WA

July 7-9 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA

September 8-10 Circuit of The Americas, TX

September 22-24 New Jersey Motorsports Park, NJ

Here is what DiBrino had to say about racing the MV Agusta F3 RR for Competition Werkes MV Agusta:

“I’m so excited about this opportunity to race the MV Agusta and very thankful for the support of everyone involved.  When news dropped towards the end of 2022 that KTM had acquired majority stake in MV Agusta, it was MotoAmerica’s Greg White who immediately pitched the idea to me about racing the F3 RR in Supersport. I was looking for a change for 2023 and it was the perfect storm for this to all happen on such short notice. If all goes well, I think we could be testing the bike at the end of April. I’ve ridden an F3 EDR built in the past and loved it, so I am dying to get on the new bike and get after it! I think it’s going to be a fun change for me moving into the Supersport class this year representing Competition Werkes and MV Agusta!”

To follow these racing efforts, follow Andy DiBrino on social media: @andy_dibrino on Instagram, Andy DiBrino Racing on Facebook, and Andy DiBrino on YouTube.

For sponsorship inquiries, contact info is available at dibrinoracing.com.

About Andy DiBrino

Andy DiBrino is a 28-year-old professional motorcycle racer from Tualatin, Oregon, who hold track records all over the West Coast and has been a three-time OMRRA #1 plate holder. In the MotoAmerica series, he has multiple podiums to his name in Stock 1000, Superstock 600, RSD Super Hooligan, including a win in RSD Super Hooligan at Daytona. DiBrino is well-known for being one of the most versatile racers in the country, competing in road racing, motocross, flat track, supermoto and even Red Bull Straight Rhythm.

About Competition Werkes

Competition Werkes is based out of Sutherlin, Oregon. They are known for high-quality aftermarket motorcycle accessories and slip-on exhausts. Each exhaust is hand-welded at their shop in Oregon. For more information about Competition Werkes, visit competitionwerkes.com.

About EDR Performance

EDR Performance is a motorcycle repair and performance shop in Beaverton, Oregon, that is known worldwide for their attention to detail in service. For over 24 years EDR Performance has brought to the market top name brands, proven service and the highest quality items for riders and racers of all kinds. For more information about EDR Performance, visit edrperformance.com.

AMA Adds Staff To Racing Department

AMA's new Off-Road Racing Manager Michael Jolly. Photo courtesy AMA.
AMA's new Off-Road Racing Manager Michael Jolly. Photo courtesy AMA.

American Motorcyclist Association Adds Talent to its Racing Department
Hires Jeff Canfield and Michael Jolly full time

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association has added two experienced racing managers to its full-time ranks — Jeff Canfield and Michael Jolly. The pair have been involved with the AMA and AMA-sanctioned pro and amateur racing for years as contractors but are now full-time employees.

Canfield will hold the position of Racing Manager and will be responsible for a wide range of duties on the AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross fronts.

Jolly will fill the Off-Road Racing Manager position and be involved in all aspects of the AMA’s substantial amateur racing activities, including transnational events such as the International Six Days Enduro.

“The AMA is excited to announce the full-time hiring of Jeff and Mike,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “They not only possess significant experience in the world of motorcycle racing, but they also know the AMA and how it operates and will hit the ground running in their respective roles. I have worked with both of them over the years, and we’re looking forward to great things in 2023 and beyond.”

 

AMA's new Racing Manager Jeff Canfield. Photo courtesy AMA.
AMA’s new Racing Manager Jeff Canfield. Photo courtesy AMA.

 

Canfield has been a motorcyclist from an early age.

“On my ninth birthday I got my first motorcycle, a Yamaha 60,” says Canfield, “and from that day on I was hooked. I started racing flat track, TT and hare scrambles locally in upstate New York and competed in the amateur national championship for dirt track in ’82, ’83 and ’86.

“I flagged a bunch of AMA Motocross Nationals in the late 1980s,” Canfield added, “and some AMA Supercross events, too, when they came to area venues. In 2000 I sold my house and traveled with both series, doing various jobs, and after several years ended up as Race Director of the Pro Motocross Championship, which I’ve done for the last 14 years in addition to working Race Control during AMA Supercross events. I have been truly blessed to work with and see many of the world’s best motocross and AMA Supercross riders, and I am very excited about this new opportunity with the AMA.”

Jolly got the motorcycling bug early in life, as well.

“My Dad was a founding member of the Appalachian Dirt Riders club,” says Jolly, “so I was involved pretty early; I actually started laying out and tacking arrows for National enduros at 10 years old! I have competed in all forms of off-road racing over the past 25 years, and have worked part-time for the AMA since 2015, primarily coordinating ISDE efforts. I’m excited for this new opportunity to help the AMA in all aspects of off-road racing.”

The AMA is currently hiring for multiple positions. To see these opportunities, check out AmericanMotorcyclist.com/careers/.

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.

 

MotoAmerica: Yamaha Riders Testing At Buttonwillow

Jake Gagne (1). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Jake Gagne (1). Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Several MotoAmerica racers were testing on their Yamahas today at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, in Buttonwillow, California.

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha’s two-time and defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne was quickest overall with a time of 1:42.077 while riding his YZF-R1 Superbike on the 3.0-mile road course.

Westby Racing Yamaha’s Mathew Scholtz was second-best with a lap of 1:44.428 on his YZF-R1 Superbike.

Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen spent all of Tuesday testing the Attack Performance Yamaha YZF-R6 he plans to ride in the Daytona 200 MotoAmerica Supersport race on March 11. Petersen clocked a best time of 1:46.389.

The trio of men were joined by 15-year-old Kayla Yaakov, who recorded a 1:50.922 on her MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R7 MotoAmerica Twins Cup bike.

Lap times were provided by the California Roadrace Association (CRA).

American Flat Track: Royal Enfield Renews As Official OEM Partner

Johnny Lewis (10) on his Royal Enfield at the Volusia Half-Mile 2022 season finale. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.
Johnny Lewis (10) on his Royal Enfield at the Volusia Half-Mile 2022 season finale. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.

Royal Enfield North America Named Official OEM Partner of Progressive AFT Again in 2023

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 7, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track and Royal Enfield North America (RENA) today confirmed their multifaceted partnership has been renewed ahead of the upcoming 2023 Progressive AFT season.

The innovative collaboration between America’s Original Extreme Sport and the world’s oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production is entering its fourth year of partnership. And as an Official OEM Partner, Royal Enfield will continue to engage and entertain Progressive American Flat Track fans with its line of modern classic motorcycles in multiple ways.

Royal Enfield has enjoyed an impressive degree of success on the racetrack as its racing effort continues to evolve. Since the Royal Enfield Twins FT made its debut in 2020, the team has celebrated multiple podiums in the Mission Production Twins class, including a historic win at the Lima Half Mile in 2021 – a first-ever feat for the historic brand. Royal Enfield is looking forward to continuing its venture into the competitive ranks of Progressive American Flat Track, as well as continuing the evolution of the Twins FT motorcycle with the versatile and accomplished Johnny Lewis once again leading the charge.

Throughout its partnership with the series, Royal Enfield has endeavored not just to expand its reach, but to actively grow the sport at a grassroots level and introduce it to new audiences. Chief among those efforts is the hugely popular Build. Train. Race. (BTR) program, which highlights, celebrates, and encourages the involvement of women in flat track racing. BTR has injected new talent into Progressive American Flat Track events across the nation, welcoming both experienced and beginner racers to compete aboard customized INT650 motorcycles. Royal Enfield aims to continue this innovative program in 2023 at select Progressive AFT rounds.

“Royal Enfield has already accomplished so much through our participation in Progressive American Flat Track, it was an easy decision to continue that relationship,” said Adrian Sellers, Royal Enfield Head – Custom Program & Motorsport. “Royal Enfield is a 120-year-old brand but still very young when it comes to competition. The development and success of the Twins FT motorcycle have brought a lot of excitement to the company, which is on course for a landmark year with all-new models, and the continuation of our groundbreaking programs that open doors to new riders and racers. We look forward to sharing another milestone year with Progressive AFT and its fans.”

Progressive AFT fans will also get to check out Royal Enfield’s street models first hand in the Progressive AFT Marketplace, with the historic marque’s stunning new models – the Scram 411 and all-new Super Meteor 650 mid-sized cruiser – taking center stage.

“Royal Enfield has established itself as one of the fastest growing brands in motorcycling and one of the most innovative partners of Progressive American Flat Track,” said Gene Crouch, COO of AMA Pro Racing. “Not content to rest on its storied past, Royal Enfield continues to make history through one-of-a-kind marketing activations and creative advertising campaigns. We look forward to partnering with them in 2023 and showcasing the Build. Train. Race program at select Progressive AFT events again this season.”

The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will launch with the hugely anticipated return of the DAYTONA Short Track I & II at the Flat Track at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 9 and Friday, March 10.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfieldNA.com.

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

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2023 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.

About Royal Enfield

The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.

Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 150 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S. and Canada. RENA currently offers the all-new Classic 350, Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.

About Progressive American Flat Track

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

MotoGP: RNF Riders Looking To Understand Aprilias Better At Sepang

Miguel Oliveira (88), as seen testing his new RNF Aprilia at Valencia in November 2022. Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.
Miguel Oliveira (88), as seen testing his new RNF Aprilia at Valencia in November 2022. Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

New beginnings with Oliveira and Fernandez

Three days of testing at the Sepang International circuit mark a fresh start for the RNF MotoGP Team this week.

A long MotoGP winter break comes to an end this weekend with the first official test in 2023 at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Thereby, the RNF MotoGP Team will hit the tarmac re-branded with new machinery and new riders. After a first successful roll-out for one day in Valencia in November 2022, Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez are eager to kick off the new season on three days of testing from Friday to Sunday.

The main objective, for both, Oliveira and Fernandez, is to get to know their Aprilia RS-GP machines better during this official test. The Portuguese five-times MotoGP winner and the young Spaniard, who is about to embark on his second season in the premier class, aim to use the track time at their best in order to be prepared for the upcoming 21 rounds of the year which include a sprint race and a main race per event.

The Sepang International Circuit is open for action from 10:00 to 18:00 from Friday to Sunday plus 15 minutes of start practice each evening. After this first tryst this year in Malaysia, Oliveira and Fernandez will have another two days of testing at Portimao, Portugal in March followed by RNF MotoGP Team’s launch on March 16th to present the official colors for this 2023 season.
 

Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.
Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

MIGUEL OLIVEIRA

“It would be super nice, if I could be close to Aleix (Espargaro) and Maverick (Viñales) in this test. It’s definitely a goal to be near the factory guys. We are expecting some little things to test, not a lot though. Our main job is to build a strong base and understand what can work for me and what might not work. It’s a test, where we will filter a couple of things. The base is just me getting used to the bike.”

 

Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

RAUL FERNANDEZ

“It will be very interesting to have three days of test, because so far, we had only one. To be honest, the conditions in Valencia haven’t been perfect and at the end of a long season, also my physical condition was not perfect there. So, I’m very happy to be back on the bike this week. I think I will enjoy riding like a kid.”

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal RNF MotoGP Team

“We simply can’t wait for the first official test for 2023 this week in Sepang, our home circuit. It’s been a long break. As a team we are re-branding and re-structuring for the 2023 season, so we didn’t stop working after the Valencia test and have been busy behind the scenes planning for the new season. Also, the team had a good schooling class at the Aprilia Racing Factory in Noale and to close the year with a nice and welcoming Christmas Party hosted by Aprilia.”

“I look forward to see all the team members again and of course the riders, Miguel and Raul. I’ve organized some cycling sessions with them to get them acclimatized to the hot and humid conditions quickly. More important, it is to understand from the Aprilia factory and our crew chiefs on the test objectives for both riders.”

“For the test, we don’t have special expectations. We will understand more once the team gets together with technical discussions with Aprilia to really understand what would be the test targets for both our riders. We can’t wait!”
 

Wilco Zeelenberg, RNF MotoGP Team Manager

“We are really looking forward to work with the new material and moreover we are excited about the way that the riders are able to connect with their bikes. That’s what it will be all about in the coming tests. For Miguel and Raul the key is to try to adapt as fast as possible to those new bikes for them. After one day in Valencia, it looked quite good. Although it wasn’t easy, as obviously each bike has his own advantages and disadvantages.”

“For them it is about to find out track by track, how to ride and how to deal with everything. This has our big priority for the test. Setup-wise, we have a lot of material and we officially start the season with our new partner, CryptoDATA and Aprilia. I look forward to the sun in Malaysia and to a fresh start. Hopefully we are able to keep our focus on racing bikes, everything is new with new vibes and new ideas, but my priority is to keep focused on racing and results.”

Test Ride An Indian FTR For A Chance To Win A Custom “FTR Loeb”

A rendering of a "FTR Loeb" designed by Sébastien Loeb and Tank Machine. Image courtesy DPPI - Fray Media and Indian Motorcycle.
A rendering of an Indian "FTR Loeb" designed by Sébastien Loeb and Tank Machine. Image courtesy DPPI - Fray Media and Indian Motorcycle.

Test ride any Indian FTR for a chance to win a custom ‘FTR Loeb’ designed by Sébastien Loeb and Tank Machine

 ‘FTR Loeb’ celebrates Loeb’s nine World Rally Championships & his passion for motorcycles

Winner to be presented with their ‘FTR Loeb’ during a VIP trip to Wheels & Waves

Matching pair of the design to be built – one for Loeb & one for the winner

Indian Motorcycle has announced a test ride campaign that will see one lucky winner presented with one of just two special Indian FTR custom machines designed by Sebastien Loeb and built by renowned French builder, Tank Machine. Making this prize even more exclusive, the second of the two unique FTR ‘Loeb’ machines to be built will be presented to Loeb himself, making this a truly special and unique prize.

Between February 8th and May 15th, riders in participating countries can qualify for this once in a lifetime chance by registering online, selecting an Indian Motorcycle dealer, and visiting that dealer to take a test ride on any model from the Indian FTR lineup.

 

Sébastien Loeb in his car at the 2021 Dakar Rally. Photo by DPPI-Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Sébastien Loeb in his car at the 2021 Dakar Rally. Photo by DPPI-Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

 

From World Rally to World Touring Cars, Pikes Peak to the Dakar Rally, Rallycross to Xtreme E and more, Sébastien Loeb’s exceptional career has seen him display his legendary skills across a multitude of disciplines while setting records along the way. What is less known is that Sébastien Loeb discovered his passion for motorsports in regional moped events before trying his hand at motorcycle racing on circuits and in enduro.

Although more often seen behind the wheel, Loeb loves to ride motorcycles on the road or track whenever he can, and since collaborating with Indian Motorcycle in February 2022 as an ambassador for the brand, has been an enthusiastic rider of his Indian FTR R Carbon.

 

Sébastien Loeb with his Indian FTR R Carbon. Photo by DPPI - Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Sébastien Loeb with his Indian FTR R Carbon. Photo by DPPI – Fray Media, courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

 

“Motorcycling has always been a passion of mine and my career could have been so different if the right opportunity in motorcycle racing had presented itself before my move to four wheels. Riding is a unique experience, a whole different world of sensations compared to driving a car, and the FTR was just the perfect choice for me,” said Sébastien Loeb.

“I’ve become a big fan of the FTR’s unique style and performance, so to be asked to create a one-off build with Tank Machine was a real honour. I can’t wait to see the finished bike and I am sure the winner will love their FTR as much as I will.”

Celebrating his nine World Rally championships and his passion for motorcycles, Loeb and Tank Machine have envisioned the ‘FTR Loeb’ as a unique interpretation of the American V-twin which Tank Machine will now bring to life in metal and paint over the coming months.

Tank Machine and Indian Motorcycles have regularly collaborated on many projects since the creation of the Super Scout in 2016, which was also presented to a competition winner.

The lucky winner will be randomly selected at the end of May ready to be whisked away on a VIP trip to Wheels & Waves in June meet the Tank Machine team and be presented with their ‘FTR Loeb’.

Participating Countries / Registration Links:

Belgique

FR https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/fr/ftr-loeb-form/

FL https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/fl/ftr-loeb-form/

Cyprus             https://www.indianmotorcyclecyprus.com/ftr-loeb-form/

France             https://www.indianmotorcycle.fr/ftr-loeb-form/

Germany         https://www.indianmotorcycle.de/ftr-loeb-form/

Luxembourg    https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/lu/ftr-loeb-form/

Netherlands    https://www.indianmotorcyclebenelux.com/ftr-loeb-form/

Poland             https://www.indianpoland.com/ftr-loeb-form/

Portugal          https://www.indianmotorcycle.pt/ftr-loeb-form/

South Africa    https://www.indianmotorcycle.co.za/ftr-loeb-form/

Spain               https://www.indianmotorcycle.es/ftr-loeb-form/

Switzerland

CH-DE https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/ftr-loeb-form/

CH-FR https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/fr/ftr-loeb-form/

CH-IT https://www.indianmotorcycle.ch/it/ftr-loeb-form/

UK     https://www.indianmotorcycle.co.uk/ftr-loeb-form/

For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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