More Details On New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Repaving & Renovation

David Swarts

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January 5, 2023

More Details On New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Repaving & Renovation

Additional Designs and Details Released For Renovation: New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Classic Thunderbolt Circuit

New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) announced in October that their classic Thunderbolt road course will be repaved, including the creation of interesting and exciting new course configurations.

The original announcement, available here, has been met with great interest and positive feedback.

“When you make an announcement of this size – a multi-million-dollar investment that both preserves and adds to our Thunderbolt racetrack – you are definitely anxious to hear and read how it is received in the motorsports community,” commented Brad Scott, President, and Chief Operating Officer at NJMP. “I am thrilled with the support and enthusiasm people have for our project. It reinforces our direction and decisions.”

Additional details and designs are now available to share.

The project will begin the second week of October 2023, starting with the milling and paving itself to complete that in the first few weeks, allowing for the longest possible cure time before being put into use. Then the focus will turn to work on the curbing throughout the circuit, as well as the changes and enhancements to the areas surrounding the track described below. The entire project will be completed by the beginning of February 2024 with first rentals starting in March 2024.

“The new course configurations got a lot of attention and fun, positive feedback,” shared Scott. “We’ve been working with our partners at Technical Track Design to refine the designs and details.”

The most significant changes and additions for the new Thunderbolt are in the area of Turn 7 through Turn 11. Two new layouts will be created alongside the original complex – the Paperclip, and The 90 – along with a new gravel pit and the expanded runoff, guardrail relocation, layered tire bundles, and mobile tire bundles required for the new course configurations.

The plan for Thunderbolt Raceway's Turn 5 through Turn 11 with the Paperclip, The 90, and safety infrastructure. Image courtesy New Jersey Motorsports Park. — The plan for Thunderbolt Raceway’s Turn Five through Turn 11 showing the new Paperclip and The 90 configurations and the safety infrastructure. Image courtesy New Jersey Motorsports Park.

Additionally, Thunderbolt will see changes in the Turn 1 area for greater runoff and safety. The guardrail will be moved back, with more asphalt and gravel runoff, additional tire bundles, and the inside curbing relocated to the right to widen the turn and provide more racing room.

The plan for Thunderbolt Raceway's Turn One. Image courtesy New Jersey Motorsports Park. — The plan for Thunderbolt Raceway’s Turn One. Image courtesy New Jersey Motorsports Park.

The Thunderbolt Classic and Classic with Chicane laps will remain at 2.25 miles. The Paperclip option sits at 2.15 miles, and The 90 at 2.1 miles. Relative to the Classic, the Paperclip is expected to be about 4 seconds/lap quicker, and The 90 another 4 seconds/lap quicker based on simulations using an FIA GT3 specification car in the model. The chicane adds 2 seconds/lap to any of the available options.

“Once this project is completed, it will be exciting to see how the different layouts are used,” Scott concluded. What do the riders in our Riders Club like the most, what do the drivers in our Drivers Club prefer, which course options our renters, race organizations, and schools choose – the 2024 season will look like none before!”

BMW Motorrad USA Reports Record Sales In 2022

David Swarts

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January 5, 2023

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BMW Motorrad USA Reports Record Sales In 2022

New Motorcycle Sales, BMW Motorrad USA, Q4 & Full Year 2022.

BMW Motorrad USA reported 3,459 motorcycles sold for the fourth quarter of 2022 which is an increase of 232 units and 7.2% vs. Q4 2021 retail sales. Our Motorcycle supply has significantly improved and fueled continued strong demand for BMW Motorcycles across the US.

For the full year 2022, Motorrad USA retail sales are 17,690 retail units which is an increase of 1,660 units and 10.4% over 2021 and the best year of retail sales in BMW Motorrad USA history.

On the strength of a freshened product lineup of new models like the all-new R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental, BMW Motorrad USA dealers continue to out-perform the overall industry and have increased retail sales for the year well ahead of the industry average. BMW Motorrad demand continues to be strong due to continued dominance of core models like the R 1250 GS Adventure and GS models as well as continued strong performance of the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR that continue to dominate the market in retail sales and market share. BMW Motorrad USA dealers are poised for continued significant growth in sales and market share in the new year on the strength of new products that will continue to drive demand and produce a record year of retail sales for Motorrad USA in 2023.

Track Time Track Days & Moto Pilot Training Schools Schedules Released

David Swarts

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January 5, 2023

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Track Time Track Days & Moto Pilot Training Schools Schedules Released

Track Time announces its 2023 schedule along with the inaugural Ken Hill Moto Pilot Training School

Olympia WA – January 2023

Track Time is pleased to release its 2023 track day schedule, along with the first Ken Hill Moto Pilot Training school, held at Ridge Motorsports Park. Track Time is holding 10 events scheduled from late May through early September, with dates on both Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Alan Schwen, co-owner of Track Time, states, “We had a solid 2022 and listened to what our clients wanted more of, so we added more rental bikes, another Sunday/Monday event, as well as more Moto Pilot-certified coaches. With the addition of the school, we are really looking forward to a great riding year at ‘The Ridge.’”

Ken Hill, also co-owner, talks about the new Moto Pilot Training School. “I’ve been involved with quite a few schools in different formats and the MPTS is the first time I’ve utilized all my concepts and methodology in a school format. We’ve done some beta testing with the curriculum over the last few years, and I am beyond stoked to get this launched here at Track Time.”

To sign up for the Track Time track days or the Moto Pilot Training School, visit their website at www.tracktime.bike.

– May 28-29 Sunday – Monday (Memorial Day)

– June 19-20 Monday – Tuesday

– July 16-17 Sunday – Monday

– July 24-25 Monday – Tuesday (SCHOOL)

– August 14-15 Monday – Tuesday

– Sept 3-4 Sunday – Monday (Labor Day)

Voting Now Open For 2022 AMA Racing Awards

David Swarts

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January 4, 2023

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Voting Now Open For 2022 AMA Racing Awards

AMA members may now vote for AMA Athlete of the Year categories

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association recently announced the nominees for the 2022 AMA Racing Awards, which recognize individuals excelling in AMA-sanctioned competition and recreational activity over the past year.

“We’re grateful to take the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of racers, volunteers, and advocates across the nation,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “Congratulations to this year’s national and regional champs, and we look forward to recognizing clubs, individuals and organizers who have gone above and beyond to help the AMA in its goal of supporting and protecting the motorcycling lifestyle.”

AMA members are invited to help select winners in competition categories, including the prestigious AMA Athlete of the Year awards. Members may cast their votes for the 2022 AMA Racing Awards by visiting SurveyMonkey.com. Voting will end on Jan. 17 at midnight.

Award winners will be announced soon after voting closes.

2022 AMA Racing Award Nominees

AMA Athlete of the Year: National Championship

Jordan Ashburn — Grand National Cross Country Series XC1 Open Pro Bike Champion

Grant Baylor — National Enduro Pro1 Champion (5 wins)

Billy Janniro — Speedway National Championship Series Champion

Dante Oliveira — National Grand Prix Pro Class Champion

Kyle Peters — Arenacross National Championship Series Pro Sport Champion (23 moto wins out of 24)

Dalton Shirey — National Hare & Hound Pro Class Champion

Pat Smage — NATC MotoTrials Pro Champion (6 out of 6 wins)

AMA Athlete of the Year: Grand Championship

Caden Braswell — Motocross Horizon Award Winner, National Motocross 250 Pro Sport Champion, 2nd in Open Pro Sport

Alessandro Di Mario — Road Race Horizon Award Winner, North America Talent Cup Champion, Road Race Grand Championship 400cc Superstock Expert, Lightweight Twins Superbike Expert, Lightweight Twins Superstock Expert Class Champion

Trystan Hart — Tennessee Knockout – Extreme Enduro Champion

Clarke Morian V — Flat Track Horizon Award Winner, Flat Track Grand Championship 2nd place 250cc – Open Singles (12+)

Chris Spoonogle — Vintage Grand Champion

Cullen Vice — Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship 125cc Class Champion

ATV Athlete of the Year

Parker Guoan — Ice Race Grand Championship ATV Quad 450A, Open A & Shootout Champion

Brycen Neal — Grand National Cross Country Series XC1 Pro – ATV Class Champion

Kinsey Osborn — ATVMX WMX & Women 15+ Class Champion

Jason Vanberg — ATV Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship ATV Open Class Champion

AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year

Jason Braun — Vet/Senior Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship Masters (40+) Class Champion

Michael Brown — National Motocross Vet/Senior Racer of the Year

Fred Hoess — Two-time FIM International Vintage Trophy Overall champion (29 ISDE career events)

Dallas Mayer — Flat Track Grand Championship Vet/Senior Racer of the Year, Flat Track Grand Championship Masters (60+) and Senior (40+) Class Champion

Steve McSwain — National Enduro, 50+ Champion (6 overall wins)

Lightning Weppler — Senior Vintage Grand Champion

AMA Youth Racer of the Year

Casey Cochran — National Motocross Youth Racer of the Year, 5/6 moto wins, National Motocross 125 Jr. (12-17) B/C and Schoolboy 1 (12-17) B/C Class Champion

Sam Drane — Flat Track Grand Championship Youth Racer of the Year, 85cc Modified (9-11), 85cc Modified (9-13), and 85cc Production (9-13) Class Champion

Nathan Gouker — FIM North America Mini Cup 110 and 160 Champion

Kaidin Tvergyak — ATVMX Schoolboy Jr. (12-15), 90cc Open (8-13), and 90cc Shifter (8-13) Class Champion

Junior Motocross World Champions — Tace Morgan, Maddox Temmerman, Carson Wood, Seth Dennis, Landon Gibson, Casey Cochran, Collin Allen

AMA Female Racer of the Year

Rachael Archer — Grand National Cross Country Series WXC Bike Class Champion

Brooklyn Caudillo — National Hare and Hound Jr. Girls Class Champion; National Grand Prix Championship Girls Jr. (9-12) Class Champion

Madeleine Hoover — NATC MotoTrials Women’s Pro Champion (4 out of 4 wins)

Mackenzie Tricker — National Enduro Women’s Elite Champion (5 wins)

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.

Bridgestone Names New Race Tire Distributor In Canada

David Swarts

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January 4, 2023

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Bridgestone Names New Race Tire Distributor In Canada

Bridgestone Motorcycle Announced Importations Thibault Ltée as

Exclusive Motorcycle Race Tire Distributor in Canada

· Bridgestone Motorcycle is proud to announce Importations Thibault Ltée as the exclusive distributor for competition road race tires in Canada.

· This comes nearly three months after Bridgestone was chosen as the exclusive tire supplier and title sponsor of the Canadian Superbike Championship Series.

· This partnership aligns with the “Emotion” value of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment.

Sherbrooke, QC (January 4, 2023) – Bridgestone Canada Inc. (Bridgestone) and Importations Thibault Ltée (Thibault) announced today that Thibault will become the exclusive distributor for competition road race tires (non-DOT) in Canada. This announcement comes approximately three months after The Canadian Superbike Championship Series (CSBK) chose Bridgestone as the exclusive tire supplier and title sponsor of the series.

Bridgestone is a supplier of premium race tires for several international racing series including the FIM Endurance World Championship Series (EWC) where it has won an astounding 15 consecutive times at the legendary Suzuka 8 Hours race. Thibault is excited to distribute the same Bridgestone Battlax V02 and Battlax R11 tires that will be used in Canada’s own CSBK series.

“As a passionate supporter of motorcycle racing and our increased racing presence in Canada with CSBK, this move with Thibault ensures that road racers will be able to find Bridgestone road race tires more efficiently than ever,” confirmed Jared Williams, general manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire Business in the United States and Canada. “Due to the long-standing relationship that we have with Thibault and their own passion for motorcycle racing, opening race tire distribution to Thibault is the best way to support the Canadian road racing community.”

“As a long-time partner with Bridgestone, we are really excited to add their road race tires to Thibault’s portfolio,” explained Thibault Director of Business Development Dave Oakley. “By leveraging Thibault’s passion for powersports and nationwide reach, it will be easier than ever for motorcycle road racers to access Bridgestone race tires.”

These partnerships with Thibault and CSBK align with the Bridgestone’s commitment to connect to consumers through Emotion, one of the eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter “E” (Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease, and Empowerment) known as the Bridgestone E8 Commitment to realize a sustainable society.

Thibault will begin receiving Bridgestone motorcycle road race tires in March in time for the upcoming 2023 racing season.

About Bridgestone Canada Inc:

Bridgestone Canada Inc. (BSCA) is a member of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO) and a direct subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM), whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. BSCA and BATO develop, manufacture and market Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires. They are focused on retail, wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off road, agricultural and other tires to their customers in Canada and the United States, respectively.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 45,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

About Importations Thibault Ltée:

Since 1981, the primary mission of Importations Thibault is to offer Canadian powersport dealers outstanding customer service with an experienced and dedicated team, quality products and competitive prices. With over 40 years of service, Importations Thibault continues to increase its presence in the Canadian market & has become a major distributor in the powersports industry in Canada. Importations Thibault “Service you can trust.”

MotoGP: Pre-Season Testing Begins In February At Sepang

David Swarts

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January 4, 2023

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MotoGP: Pre-Season Testing Begins In February At Sepang

MotoGP World Championship pre-season testing starts in February at the Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia.

The first action will be a “shakedown test” February 5-7. This test is designed for official MotoGP test riders to do last-minute evaluations and check over the 2023-spec machines before handing them off to the contracted racers.

The “shakedown test” is also open to MotoGP rookies, or rookie, as Tech3 GASGAS rider Augusto Fernandez is the only rookie in 2023.

The full MotoGP field will then be unleashed on the 3.4-mile (5.4 km) Malaysian road course for three days of testing February 10-12.

This will be followed by a second — and the final — official MotoGP pre-season test March 11-12 at Portugal’s Algarve International Circuit, site of the 2023 MotoGP World Championship season-opener March 24-26.

There will also be two, post-race MotoGP tests in the middle of the 2023 season – May 1 at Jerez and September 11 at Misano.

Sean Dylan Kelly (4) in action during Moto2 testing at Jerez. Photo courtesy Sean Dylan Kelly. — Sean Dylan Kelly (4) in action during Moto2 testing at Jerez in early 2022. Photo courtesy American Racing Team.

Moto2 and Moto3 teams are allowed to do limited private testing with their contracted racers, but there will also be official pre-season tests. Jerez will host Moto3 teams for testing March 9-10 and Moto2 teams on March 14-15.

Moto2 and Moto3 teams will then have a shared test March 17-19 at Algarve International Circuit.

There will also be two in-season tests for Moto2 and Moto3 teams – May 2 at Jerez and August 7 at Silverstone.

MotoGP: Quartararo Signs With HJC Helmets

David Swarts

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January 3, 2023

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MotoGP: Quartararo Signs With HJC Helmets

El Diablo Partners With HJC

LA HABRA, CA – In what might be considered the biggest news in the brand’s 52-year history, HJC is extremely pleased to announce that 2021 MotoGP World Champion Fabio Quartararo has joined the number-one helmet manufacturer in the world as he moves forward in his already extraordinary career.

The 23-year-old racer from Nice, France, has earned 11 wins and 28 total podiums in the MotoGP class since his debut in 2019, and the first French champion in premier-class history has signed an exclusive deal to wear HJC’s flagship racing helmet, the FIM-homologated RPHA 1, when he lines up on the grid in 2023 to begin his fight to regain the MotoGP title.

The very first RPHA 1 Quartararo race replica is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms this Spring in March 2023, complete with his new trademark “Diablo” design on the top, and you can expect to see a few different limited-edition race helmets debuted by Quartararo throughout the year in some very special races, as well. HJC will also be releasing an official FQ20 Line of helmets that will be featured on a variety of HJC models including, but not limited to, the all-new i71 and C10.

Quartararo will make his HJC RPHA 1 debut on February 9, at the Sepang MotoGP Official Test, where he will wear his special Winter Test graphic, and then his new and improved Diablo race helmet will come out when the 2023 season officially kicks off on March 23 at the Grand Prix of Portugal. Let’s go, Fabio!

From Fabio Quartararo

“Hi, everybody! I’m very excited to announce my collaboration with HJC Helmets. HJC is a family-owned company with 52 years of quality helmet-making experience and a great history in professional racing. HJC invests heavily in MotoGP, sponsoring riders from rookies to world champions, and they provide the finest professional service in the paddock which is always important for riders. I like the brand also for the cool marketing they do. I was already familiar with the RPHA 1 race helmet as I’m a good friend with Yamaha Test Rider Cal Crutchlow, who has been wearing HJC for many years. Also, riders like Brad Binder have been racing with HJC and the RPHA 1 helmet. The race helmet looks extremely aerodynamic with many safety features that are important to professional riders. I cannot wait to try it on in the upcoming MotoGP races with a goal to place it on the top of the podium. I look forward to working hard and fighting for MotoGP championships together with HJC. I want to thank HJC and the Hong family for their trust in me, and I look forward to this journey together. I wish everyone a happy new year and see you on tracks for new adventures. Cheers!”

From HJC HELMETS

“We are very excited about our new partnership with the 2021 MotoGP World Champion, Fabio Quartararo. At only 23 years old, he’s already accomplished what most racers can only dream of, and we can’t wait to see what the future has in store for him. We’ve followed him closely throughout his young career, and at one point, we just sat back in our chairs and thought, ‘This guy is special. He’s going to be a champion.’ And he quickly proved us right. From his late-race charges in Moto2 to his Rookie of the Year performance in MotoGP to becoming the first French premier-class champion in Grand Prix history, Fabio is on a path to greatness, and we are happy we can be a part of it. We look forward to working with Fabio as we try to win more World Championships together. From all of us at HJC, welcome to the family, Fabio!”

AHRMA: Tickets Now Available For Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

David Swarts

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January 3, 2023

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AHRMA: Tickets Now Available For Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

Tickets Now Available for AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey

(January 3, 2023, Knoxville, Tennessee) Spectator tickets are now on sale for one of the most exciting vintage motorcycle events of 2023.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) announces the return of the Classic MotoFest of Monterey™ July 14-16, 2023. This third iteration of the event promises an even bigger and better family vintage motorcycle experience.

This year’s event will spotlight the amazing vintage racing sidecars, their history at Laguna Seca, and the personalities past and present that make this unique part of two-wheeled racing so exciting.

Along with sidecar racing, the fans will experience almost all disciplines of vintage AHRMA motorcycle racing on and around the historic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Included will be vintage road racing, flat track Racing, vintage motocross, vintage observed trials, and cross-country racing on some of the best vintage machinery in the country.

AHRMA once again partners with Laroque Motorsports to provide the exciting festival portion of the weekend. Attractions this year include a premier classic motorcycle show, a vintage swap meet along with vintage-themed vendors and attractions, plus much more to be announced.

Laroque Motorsports is in partnership with All Kids Bike®, a national movement, led by the Strider Education Foundation, to place Kindergarten PE Learn-To-Ride programs into public schools for free, using donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations.

Along with this partnership and new to this year’s event is the inclusion of more family-oriented activities including Mimi and Moto – The Motorcycle Monkeys, Kid’s Strider Bike flat track racing, and also a kid’s custom bicycle class in the vintage bike show. Included in the festival area will also be great food and entertainment with something for everyone.

Visit www.ahrma.org for details. Spectator tickets are available at WeatherTechRaceway.com.

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 about 3,300 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.

MotoGP: Mir’s First Interview As A Repsol Honda Rider (Video)

David Swarts

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January 3, 2023

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MotoGP: Mir’s First Interview As A Repsol Honda Rider (Video)

Editorial Note: Scroll down for the video.

VIDEO: “Every rider has imagined himself with these colours” Mir’s first interview

Wearing the colours of the Repsol Honda Team for the first time, the 2020 MotoGP World Champion tells us how he approaches the challenge he faces over the next two years as a factory Honda rider. Joan Mir talks about his feelings, objectives and work ethic in his first appearance as a rider for the most successful team in MotoGP history.

What were your first impressions of the Repsol Honda team making your debut in Valencia?

“My first impressions of the Repsol Honda Team at the test were really good. When you come from a different team, you have to get used to the people and the dynamic of work, which is completely different from the one that I that have been in, and I like it. There were a lot of people in the garage, and I enjoyed it. We made a great test and it felt like the first day back in school.”

How do you adjust to this new challenge?

“I try to adapt to this new challenge with optimism and the will to start well in a new team. Personally, I always enjoy these types of challenges, getting to know new things: How is the team, the bike, meeting all the people in the team… I enjoyed the test and this process, and I look forward to meeting more people in the team.”

From the physical side, how are you training physically to be ready for next year?

“Physically I did not change the approach of my preparation. I just give it a little bit more of intensity. Every year, you give more intensity to try to be more in shape. This year, especially, because I know that the Honda bike is a physical one. I like to train technically and physically and this year I probably am doing more physical training than technical training because I think that I will need it. Overall, I did not change almost anything.”

Coming into the Repsol Honda Team, the most successful team in MotoGP history, what were your thoughts when you first signed the contract?

“My feelings when I joined a team like this one were unbelievable. I think that every rider has imagined himself with these colours, so being a part of this makes me really proud to arrive in such a sweet moment in my career. I think that I am in in a sweet moment and I’m also young to try to repeat again what we’ve done in the past. So, let’s see what we can do.”

You talk about dreaming about these colours. When you were a kid, were you ever wearing replica leathers?

“I think that I probably did, although I don’t remember if I wore these colours on the past. In my dreams I did it for sure, so it is something really nice.”

What do these colours mean? Is there is a responsibility, a bit of extra pressure to continue that legacy, that history?

“Of course, to be a part of this team means more pressure, because only winning is a good result here. We know that we arrive in a difficult moment, but the approach to racing has to be the same one: try to be as fast as we can to bring these colours to where they deserve.”

What is it like to now share a box with Marc Márquez? You have raced against him a lot, but now he’s your neighbour.

“To share the box with Marc is a true challenge, because he’s the best rider on the grid and the one with the most titles. This is something that can be really good in one way and probably more difficult in another. You can share some data with him and you can learn a lot from the inside, but if you don’t perform in the way that you want, you always have a tough rider on the other side of the garage.”

And now that you’ve both been riding the same bike, is there anything that surprised you or that you learnt about how Marc is riding that maybe you didn’t notice before?

“During the test I could make some laps with him and also share some data. He knows how these bike works perfectly. He’s able to ride in a way that the bike asks for: going really fast into the corner, which is probably faster than the bikes that I have tried in the past. Then, the way the bike gives you the power is different compared to the ones that I tried before. I have to get used to it and Marc knows how to do it really well.”

What is your goal for 2023?

“First of all, we have to be realistic. We arrive in a difficult moment. The key will be to adapt quickly to this bike and then try to build some confidence and speed during the first races. Then, from the middle season, the goal will be to try to be closer to the podium and to great results.”

What can you bring to the Repsol Honda Team?

“As a young rider and new rider, I can bring some freshness to the team. My experience in different teams is something that always gives good information to the team. I think that we share the same goal: which is to win another title. This is what I can give to the team.”

We saw you and Marc speaking at the end of the test. What were you chatting about with Marc?

“Chatting after the test is something normal. When a new rider comes to the box and tries the bike, you want to hear what his feelings are. In this case, we shared the direction that we wanted to follow. Pushing together in the same direction is really important, instead of each rider going on their own. We want to take the correct way together, and in this case, we were chatting about this.”

Legion Moto Planning Racing Series For 2024

David Swarts

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January 3, 2023

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Legion Moto Planning Racing Series For 2024

LEGION MOTO ANNOUNCES 2023 TRACK DAY SCHEDULE & 2024 SUPERBIKE RACING SERIES:

Legion Moto Track Days (LM) is proud to present a combined activities announcement: the 2023 Legion Moto schedule of events and in 2024 the launch of a new regional privateer superbike timed race series.

The 2023 Legion Moto schedule starts in May at Pikes Peak International raceway and track day events go through October. Legion Moto is coordinating motorcycle-only track events focused on adapting the “new to the track” skills required for privateer club racing.

Matt Cooper, Legion Moto owner, had this to say about the 2023 track day schedule, “We are humbled to be able to offer more to the wider track day community for ’23 and excited for the growth we’ve had. We are really looking forward to ’24 and what potential there is to help provide riders at all levels when it comes to track experiences. We want to grow this sport however we can.”

The Legion Moto track day events will span from Heartland Motorsports Park in the East all the way to Utah Motorsports Campus in the West. Ten motorcycle-only events are on the calendar, including the much anticipated return of the “The Summer Track Day Circus.”

Further information on the schedule and registration for events in 2023 can be found in the links below.

While proud of the full Legion Moto track day schedule we are also excited to announce the launch of a 2024 superbike series. The new regional superbike series will be in the midwestern United States. With the relative success of the track day project the last three years, Matt Cooper’s vision of starting a timed racing superbike series shows promise. Legion Moto operates three co-op privateer-style race teams across the country. The combination of resources and talents between the club-level racers wanting to race and the customers looking for an approachable entry to the track with growth into full racing creates multiple opportunities for the small company to grow.

Eastern Legion of Speed racing team manager Patrick Paschall had this to say on the matter of the proposed superbike series: “The east coast team and I are excited to see if Matt can get the Legion Moto series to take off. There are plenty of single-day series executing on both east and west coast, so the addition of one in the Midwest makes a lot of sense! If Matt couples a practice day with a race day at a place like Heartland, there’s a likelihood of us making the trip west for that race weekend.”

Up to date information on the proposed series can be found at the provided website links and on social media.

Legion Moto is dedicated to helping create a seamless point of entry into the wider motorsport community for all aspiring track motorcycle riders. The small veteran-owned and -operated LLC was founded on the principles of helping teach those interested and eager to learn the fundamentals of taking it from the street to becoming a privateer motorcycle track racer and beyond. The addition of a simple yet robust race day schedule of events will be offered on the corresponding Sunday. The hosting and supporting venues will largely remain the same, and expect full details of the race schedule to come out with the next release.

Website – https://www.legionmototrackdays.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/legionmototrackdays

More Details On New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Repaving & Renovation

January 5, 2023

The full layout plan of the renovated Thunderbolt Raceway at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Image courtesy New Jersey Motorsports Park.

Additional Designs and Details Released For Renovation: New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Classic Thunderbolt Circuit

New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) announced in October that their classic Thunderbolt road course will be repaved, including the creation of interesting and exciting new course configurations.

The original announcement, available here, has been met with great interest and positive feedback.

“When you make an announcement of this size – a multi-million-dollar investment that both preserves and adds to our Thunderbolt racetrack – you are definitely anxious to hear and read how it is received in the motorsports community,” commented Brad Scott, President, and Chief Operating Officer at NJMP. “I am thrilled with the support and enthusiasm people have for our project. It reinforces our direction and decisions.”

Additional details and designs are now available to share.

The project will begin the second week of October 2023, starting with the milling and paving itself to complete that in the first few weeks, allowing for the longest possible cure time before being put into use. Then the focus will turn to work on the curbing throughout the circuit, as well as the changes and enhancements to the areas surrounding the track described below. The entire project will be completed by the beginning of February 2024 with first rentals starting in March 2024.

“The new course configurations got a lot of attention and fun, positive feedback,” shared Scott. “We’ve been working with our partners at Technical Track Design to refine the designs and details.”

The most significant changes and additions for the new Thunderbolt are in the area of Turn 7 through Turn 11. Two new layouts will be created alongside the original complex – the Paperclip, and The 90 – along with a new gravel pit and the expanded runoff, guardrail relocation, layered tire bundles, and mobile tire bundles required for the new course configurations.

Additionally, Thunderbolt will see changes in the Turn 1 area for greater runoff and safety. The guardrail will be moved back, with more asphalt and gravel runoff, additional tire bundles, and the inside curbing relocated to the right to widen the turn and provide more racing room.

The Thunderbolt Classic and Classic with Chicane laps will remain at 2.25 miles. The Paperclip option sits at 2.15 miles, and The 90 at 2.1 miles. Relative to the Classic, the Paperclip is expected to be about 4 seconds/lap quicker, and The 90 another 4 seconds/lap quicker based on simulations using an FIA GT3 specification car in the model. The chicane adds 2 seconds/lap to any of the available options.

“Once this project is completed, it will be exciting to see how the different layouts are used,” Scott concluded. What do the riders in our Riders Club like the most, what do the drivers in our Drivers Club prefer, which course options our renters, race organizations, and schools choose – the 2024 season will look like none before!”

BMW Motorrad USA Reports Record Sales In 2022

January 5, 2023

A 2022 BMW S 1000 RR. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad USA.

New Motorcycle Sales, BMW Motorrad USA, Q4 & Full Year 2022.

BMW Motorrad USA reported 3,459 motorcycles sold for the fourth quarter of 2022 which is an increase of 232 units and 7.2% vs. Q4 2021 retail sales. Our Motorcycle supply has significantly improved and fueled continued strong demand for BMW Motorcycles across the US.

For the full year 2022, Motorrad USA retail sales are 17,690 retail units which is an increase of 1,660 units and 10.4% over 2021 and the best year of retail sales in BMW Motorrad USA history.

On the strength of a freshened product lineup of new models like the all-new R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental, BMW Motorrad USA dealers continue to out-perform the overall industry and have increased retail sales for the year well ahead of the industry average. BMW Motorrad demand continues to be strong due to continued dominance of core models like the R 1250 GS Adventure and GS models as well as continued strong performance of the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR that continue to dominate the market in retail sales and market share. BMW Motorrad USA dealers are poised for continued significant growth in sales and market share in the new year on the strength of new products that will continue to drive demand and produce a record year of retail sales for Motorrad USA in 2023.

Track Time Track Days & Moto Pilot Training Schools Schedules Released

January 5, 2023

Riding instructor Ken Hill follows a student at a Track Time track day/Moto Pilot Training School event. Photo by Joe Salas/4theriders.com.

Track Time announces its 2023 schedule along with the inaugural Ken Hill Moto Pilot Training School

Olympia WA – January 2023

Track Time is pleased to release its 2023 track day schedule, along with the first Ken Hill Moto Pilot Training school, held at Ridge Motorsports Park. Track Time is holding 10 events scheduled from late May through early September, with dates on both Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Alan Schwen, co-owner of Track Time, states, “We had a solid 2022 and listened to what our clients wanted more of, so we added more rental bikes, another Sunday/Monday event, as well as more Moto Pilot-certified coaches. With the addition of the school, we are really looking forward to a great riding year at ‘The Ridge.’”

Ken Hill, also co-owner, talks about the new Moto Pilot Training School. “I’ve been involved with quite a few schools in different formats and the MPTS is the first time I’ve utilized all my concepts and methodology in a school format. We’ve done some beta testing with the curriculum over the last few years, and I am beyond stoked to get this launched here at Track Time.”

To sign up for the Track Time track days or the Moto Pilot Training School, visit their website at www.tracktime.bike.

– May 28-29 Sunday – Monday (Memorial Day)

– June 19-20 Monday – Tuesday

– July 16-17 Sunday – Monday

– July 24-25 Monday – Tuesday (SCHOOL)

– August 14-15 Monday – Tuesday

– Sept 3-4 Sunday – Monday (Labor Day)

Voting Now Open For 2022 AMA Racing Awards

January 4, 2023

2022 AMA Nicky Hayden Road Race Horizon Award winner Alessandro Di Mario. Photo by Sara Chappell Photos, courtesy AMA.

AMA members may now vote for AMA Athlete of the Year categories

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association recently announced the nominees for the 2022 AMA Racing Awards, which recognize individuals excelling in AMA-sanctioned competition and recreational activity over the past year.

“We’re grateful to take the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of racers, volunteers, and advocates across the nation,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “Congratulations to this year’s national and regional champs, and we look forward to recognizing clubs, individuals and organizers who have gone above and beyond to help the AMA in its goal of supporting and protecting the motorcycling lifestyle.”

AMA members are invited to help select winners in competition categories, including the prestigious AMA Athlete of the Year awards. Members may cast their votes for the 2022 AMA Racing Awards by visiting SurveyMonkey.com. Voting will end on Jan. 17 at midnight.

Award winners will be announced soon after voting closes.

2022 AMA Racing Award Nominees

AMA Athlete of the Year: National Championship

Jordan Ashburn — Grand National Cross Country Series XC1 Open Pro Bike Champion

Grant Baylor — National Enduro Pro1 Champion (5 wins)

Billy Janniro — Speedway National Championship Series Champion

Dante Oliveira — National Grand Prix Pro Class Champion

Kyle Peters — Arenacross National Championship Series Pro Sport Champion (23 moto wins out of 24)

Dalton Shirey — National Hare & Hound Pro Class Champion

Pat Smage — NATC MotoTrials Pro Champion (6 out of 6 wins)

AMA Athlete of the Year: Grand Championship

Caden Braswell — Motocross Horizon Award Winner, National Motocross 250 Pro Sport Champion, 2nd in Open Pro Sport

Alessandro Di Mario — Road Race Horizon Award Winner, North America Talent Cup Champion, Road Race Grand Championship 400cc Superstock Expert, Lightweight Twins Superbike Expert, Lightweight Twins Superstock Expert Class Champion

Trystan Hart — Tennessee Knockout – Extreme Enduro Champion

Clarke Morian V — Flat Track Horizon Award Winner, Flat Track Grand Championship 2nd place 250cc – Open Singles (12+)

Chris Spoonogle — Vintage Grand Champion

Cullen Vice — Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship 125cc Class Champion

ATV Athlete of the Year

Parker Guoan — Ice Race Grand Championship ATV Quad 450A, Open A & Shootout Champion

Brycen Neal — Grand National Cross Country Series XC1 Pro – ATV Class Champion

Kinsey Osborn — ATVMX WMX & Women 15+ Class Champion

Jason Vanberg — ATV Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship ATV Open Class Champion

AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year

Jason Braun — Vet/Senior Hillclimb Racer of the Year, Hillclimb Grand Championship Masters (40+) Class Champion

Michael Brown — National Motocross Vet/Senior Racer of the Year

Fred Hoess — Two-time FIM International Vintage Trophy Overall champion (29 ISDE career events)

Dallas Mayer — Flat Track Grand Championship Vet/Senior Racer of the Year, Flat Track Grand Championship Masters (60+) and Senior (40+) Class Champion

Steve McSwain — National Enduro, 50+ Champion (6 overall wins)

Lightning Weppler — Senior Vintage Grand Champion

AMA Youth Racer of the Year

Casey Cochran — National Motocross Youth Racer of the Year, 5/6 moto wins, National Motocross 125 Jr. (12-17) B/C and Schoolboy 1 (12-17) B/C Class Champion

Sam Drane — Flat Track Grand Championship Youth Racer of the Year, 85cc Modified (9-11), 85cc Modified (9-13), and 85cc Production (9-13) Class Champion

Nathan Gouker — FIM North America Mini Cup 110 and 160 Champion

Kaidin Tvergyak — ATVMX Schoolboy Jr. (12-15), 90cc Open (8-13), and 90cc Shifter (8-13) Class Champion

Junior Motocross World Champions — Tace Morgan, Maddox Temmerman, Carson Wood, Seth Dennis, Landon Gibson, Casey Cochran, Collin Allen

AMA Female Racer of the Year

Rachael Archer — Grand National Cross Country Series WXC Bike Class Champion

Brooklyn Caudillo — National Hare and Hound Jr. Girls Class Champion; National Grand Prix Championship Girls Jr. (9-12) Class Champion

Madeleine Hoover — NATC MotoTrials Women’s Pro Champion (4 out of 4 wins)

Mackenzie Tricker — National Enduro Women’s Elite Champion (5 wins)

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.

Bridgestone Names New Race Tire Distributor In Canada

January 4, 2023

Canadian Superbike Champion Ben Young (on motorcycle) and Canadian Sport Bike Champion Trevor Dion (standing) tested Bridgestone tires under the supervision of Bridgestone engineers at Grand Bend Motorplex, in Ontario. Photo by Ross Millson, courtesy CSBK/PMP. — Canadian Superbike Champion Ben Young (on motorcycle) and Canadian Sport Bike Champion Trevor Dion (standing) during a Bridgestone tire test at Grand Bend Motorplex, in Ontario. Photo by Ross Millson, courtesy CSBK/PMP.