Here are some of the holiday greeting cards received by Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
From Aspar Team
From Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Holiday Greetings From The Motorcycle Industry (Updated Again)
Northern Talent Cup: 2023 Race Calendar Announced
2023 Northern Talent Cup calendar announced
Seven rounds, 14 races, six tracks and four countries await the class of 2023
The provisional 2023 Northern Talent Cup calendar can now be revealed! A seven-round, 14-race season awaits the class of 2023, with six tracks in four countries ready to play host.
The season starts with a test at Oschersleben before the first round of the year alongside WorldSBK at the classic TT Circuit Assen, and from there it’s back to Germany as the Sachsenring and Oschersleben host Rounds 2 and 3 alongside IDM.
The NTC then joins the MotoGP™ paddock for the German Grand Prix back at the Sachsenring, before visits to Most, the Red Bull Ring and Hockenheim to round out the season back with IDM at three more incredible venues.
There’s still time to apply to join the grid too, with applications open until the 31st of December 2022. Click HERE to apply, and find the full calendar below!
World Endurance: Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers Signs De La Vega, Maurin
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore tweaks line-up for EWC Superstock title defense
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore has announced the three riders it will count on during the defense of its FIM Endurance World Cup title in 2023.
While Austrian Philipp Steinmayr, 29, remains a key member of the Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore attack having excelled for the Yamaha-powered French squad in 2022, Enzo De La Vega and Axel Maurin are new recruits for next season following the departures of Hugo Clere and Baptiste Guittet.
Twenty-three-year-old Frenchman De La Vega, a former FIM Supersport 300 World Championship rider, was part of the Team LH Racing EWC Superstock line-up in 2022 with the class victory in the 24H SPA EWC Motos last June a notable highlight.
De La Vega’s compatriot Maurin, 34, is an EWC reference having been part of the Viltaïs team that won the 2016-17 FIM Endurance World Cup. He’s also achieved success in the French Superbike Championship and rode for Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore in the 2014 EWC.
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore Team Manager Yannick Bureau said: “We are pleased to announce a new line-up for the FIM Endurance World Cup in 2023, which we will start as the title holder. Philipp Steinmayr is naturally driven after a fine progression in 2022, ending in a high-flying performance at the Bol d’Or. In addition to his riding qualities, Philipp displays plenty of mechanical sympathy, he’s very serious and understands the importance of working hard for the team.
“Reinforcing the line-up for 2023 will be Axel Maurin, a real reference of endurance and speed and a former Team 18 rider in EWC. As a pillar of our team, it was always written that he would return one day.
“Enzo is still an endurance rookie having only recently started in the discipline. Despite being only 23 he has already impressed the paddock with his performances and potential. He’s ultra-motivated and looking to continue his progression with a team like ours. There is still more to come from him and that’s what convinced us to put our trust in him as we work to defend our title in 2023.”
The 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship gets underway with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans in France from 13-16 April. Click HERE to view the full calendar.
Sponsored Content: Dunlop Roadsmart IV Offers Better Handling, Grip & Mileage
Dunlop Roadsmart IV
The all-new Roadsmart IV delivers best-in-class handling, grip, and mileage. Featuring a completely new tread pattern, construction, compounds, profiles, and new technology.
ADDITIONAL TIRE FEATURES
- Compared to the Roadsmart III, the RSIV increases mileage by 23 percent in the front and 26 percent in the rear.**
- New tread patterns, construction, compounds, and profiles increase ride comfort, grip, and mileage.
- New technology allows the RSIV to maintain its high performance throughout its lifespan.
- MT Multi-Tread™ technology in the rear tire uses a long-wearing compound in the center and special lateral compounds on the shoulders for outstanding grip.
- New sidewall construction improves wet and dry handling and comfort.
- **Testing performed by Dunlop in Japan on a 2018 Honda CB1300 SB with tire sizes 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear on 40% public roads and 60% highways. Mileage results may vary.
https://www.dunlopmotorcycletires.com/tire-line/sportmax-roadsmart-iv/
Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: 2023 Schedule Released
The Rookies Cup is not getting old
2023 will see the 17th season of Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup action. The coming year begins with the preseason test in Portimão, the opening two races are also there at the Portuguese Grand Prix before moving to Jerez and on around Europe.
Sunday at the Spanish Grand Prix features race 4 of 2023 and the 200th Rookies Cup race.
Next we are returning to Le Mans for the first time since 2008, our second season when we had single race at the classic French venue.
Then to the more familiar stamping grounds of Mugello, Assen and Spielberg before ending the year on the Adriatic coast in Misano.
It promises another 14 fabulous action packed races with 26 of the world’s fastest teenagers determined to learn and prove their worth before stepping up to the World Championship classes like more than 50% of past Rookies have done. 26 of them have won 161 GPs and 10 World Championships
38 Nations have been represented in the Rookies Cup to date and, including the 2023 entry, 237 super fast teens will have had the chance to race on some of the worlds greatest Grand Prix circuits on the Moto3 spec KTMs.
Provisional Calendar
Preseason Test
March 15-16 – Portimão (Portugal)
Races
1&2 March 25-26 – Portimão (Portugal)
3&4 April 29-30 – Jerez (Spain)
5&6 May 13-14 – Le Mans (France)
7&8 June 10-11 – Mugello (Italy)
9&10 June 24-25 – Assen (Netherlands)
11&12 August 19-20 – Spielberg (Austria)
13&14 September 9-10 – Misano (Italy)
Provisional Entry List
2 Amaury Mizera (France)
5 Leo Rammerstorfer (Austria)
8 Eddie O‘Shea (Great Britain)
11 Ruché Moodley (South Africa)
12 Jacob Roulstone (Australia)
13 Hakim Danish (Malaysia)
14 Cormac Buchanan (New Zealand)
18 Angel Piqueras (Spain)
23 Rhys Stephenson (Great Britain)
25 Alexander Enriquez (United States)
27 Rico Salmela (Finland)
28 Máximo Quiles (Spain)
47 Edoardo Boggio (Italy)
50 Carter Thompson (Australia)
54 Alberto Ferrandez (Spain)
56 Kevin Farkas (Hungary)
57 Danial Shahril (Malaysia)
67 Casey O’Gorman (Ireland)
69 Marcos Ruda (Spain)
78 Jakob Rosenthaler (Austria)
81 Lorenz Luciano (Belgium)
83 Alvaro Carpe (Spain)
88 Shinya Ezawa (Japan)
93 Arbi Aditama (Indonesia)
94 Guido Pini (Italy)
95 Marco Chincolla (Argentina)
World Supersport: D34G Racing Signs Bayliss, Kofler
D34G Racing steps up to World Supersport with Oliver Bayliss, Maximilian Kofler to tackle WorldSSP Challenge
D34G Racing is ready for a new challenge following an encouraging debut on the international stage last year. The team led by Davide Giugliano will again run a two-rider line-up in 2023, but with one half tackling the full World Supersport season. The name chosen for this important milestone is none other than Oliver ‘Oli’ Bayliss, while Maximilian Kofler will be his teammate in the European rounds (WorldSSP Challenge).
Bayliss, the 19-year-old Australian son of three-time WorldSBK champion Troy, made his World Supersport debut last year aboard a Ducati Panigale V2 955 with a sixth place as current best result scored in race two at Estoril in May. Despite his young age, he has already a great wealth of experience in motorcycle racing having started as early as 14 in the ASBK (Australian) Championship.
Austria’s Kofler also made his World Supersport debut in 2022 aboard Ducati machinery, after two full seasons in the Moto3 World Championship and wildcard appearances in 2018 and 2019, whilst racing in the Moto3 Junior World Championship.
The team will work hard to be ready for winter testing, which will begin in the second half of January as well as for the 2023 season kicking off at Phillip Island on February 24-26. Kofler’s season will begin at the TT Circuit in Assen in April (21-23).
OLIVER BAYLISS
“I’m super happy to be going into the new season with D34G racing run by Davide Giugliano. 2023 will be my second year in the WorldSSP category and with the Ducati Panigale V2 955, so I’m looking forward to building on the experience made in my rookie season, keeping my progression moving and make it a good one. I’ll train hard during the off-season to be ready for the first test and cannot wait to get started. See you all in 2023. A big thank you goes to all my sponsors and supporters who have been behind me.”
MAXIMILIAN KOFLER
“I’m really happy to join the D34G Racing team. I’m also thankful to Davide and the whole group for this fresh opportunity after what was a very challenging first year in World Supersport. They trust me to ride the Ducati at its full potential and I’m over the moon – I can’t wait to get started! I’m sure that with Davide’s experience and the crew’s skills we can do a really good job and make strides in the upcoming season. I will only do the European rounds this time, but this motivates me even further to make the most of it. I’m also happy to have Oli as teammate, because we’re good friends. It’s a great opportunity for both of us and we’ll be able to help each other and push each other to the limit.”
DAVIDE GIUGLIANO – TEAM MANAGER D34G RACING
“We wrapped up 2022 on a high and with excellent results, which give us great motivation ahead of the new season. We renewed the whole line up for 2023: we will have two, new and young riders in Oli Bayliss and Maximilian Kofler. Both did a great job in 2022 aboard Ducati machinery, so we give them a warm welcome. I cannot wait for the season to get underway: testing will commence very soon, in the second half of January, and I’m looking forward to seeing them aboard our bikes.”
Buell Partners With FreedomRoad Financial
Buell® Motorcycle Aligns with FreedomRoad Financial, Names Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations
Buell Motorcycles, a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles, has forged a new alliance with FreedomRoad Financial, a division of Evergreen Bank Group, Member FDIC. By announcing this relationship, Buell is pleased to answer fans’ calls for consumer financing options.
“We couldn’t be more excited to offer enthusiasts this resource. Bottom line, it means we can put more Buell bikes under more riders,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycles. “We’re already known for offering a unique motorcycling experience – helping customers get their dream bike. Now they can also get a great financing option.”
FreedomRoad Financial is one of the largest U.S. powersports lending companies, taking great pride in maintaining the highest customer service and dealer satisfaction. But above all, they understand the rider lifestyle and work hard to help customers optimize it.
These are qualities Buell takes very seriously, and that is why Buell is equally pleased to introduce and welcome Chris Pobanz, the company’s first Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations. With decades of experience in powersports, Pobanz is perfect for this new consumer relations position. He walks clients step-by-step through ordering their new, custom-made Buell, helping them navigate the numerous design decision along the way. These include appearance preferences, accessories, and more.
In the production phase, Pobanz works closely with buyers to monitor the manufacturing schedule, keeping them informed of their place in the queue and tracking their bike’s delivery via specialized carriers when it’s ready to ship.
As important as building the perfect motorcycle for every client, Pobanz specializes in two areas. One is setting up each buyer’s Buell service center – as the purchase of every made-to-order Buell comes with its own client-located Approved Service Center. The other is acting as the point person for clients who wish to finance through FreedomRoad Financial.
“I’m excited for Buell owners to have new financing options through FreedomRoad Financial, as well as their authorized service center,” said Chris Pobanz. “Buell clients deserve world-class products and support, and that is what we’re going to give them. Having the world’s most powerful bikes built right here in Grand Rapids, Michigan, makes me proud to be an American and proud to be a member of the Buell Team!”
Strategically, Pobanz’s new role is Buell’s next big step in fulfilling its brand promise: Buells are different and so is the buying experience. Fueled by growth, CEO Bill Melvin is confident in adding a team member dedicated to ensuring that each client receives the motorcycle of their dreams. “Our direct-to-consumer business model gives buyers an up-close-and-personal relationship with Buell,” said Melvin. “Our desire to create a unique, enjoyable, high-touch buyer experience goes hand-in-hand with everything Buell stands for, and Chris is the right man for the job.”
Buell is back and delivering performance and excitement at every turn. For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com Email for Information: [email protected]
RPM Act To Protect Motorsports Industry Fails To Pass Congress
SEMA STATEMENT ON THE STATUS OF THE RECOGNIZING THE PROTECTION OF MOTORSPORTS (RPM) ACT
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Dec. 22, 2022) – SEMA and PRI must share that despite strong Congressional backing and extraordinary support from the racing community, the 2021-2022 Congressional session is ending without passage of the RPM Act.
Key negotiators in Congress could not reach an agreement on bill language that balanced the need for federal law to protect racers and motorsports parts businesses from EPA enforcement with reasonable measures to ensure that race parts are not used on vehicles driven on roads and public highways.
The RPM Act made incredible progress in the 2021-2022 session of Congress. In addition to more than 1.5 million letters advocating for the RPM Act from the grassroots motorsports community to Congress, SEMA and PRI worked with Richard Petty to meet personally with key lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and with NHRA Top Fuel driver Antron Brown to testify before the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.
SEMA and PRI thank the RPM Act’s lead sponsors, the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee, and the House Energy & Commerce Committee for their efforts to advance the RPM Act over the course of this year. Their leadership was integral throughout this process, despite the outcome.
“We wouldn’t have made it this far without this incredible effort by so many of our members,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “The RPM Act was one of the most bipartisan bills in the 117th Congress with over 165 lawmakers cosponsoring the legislation. SEMA and PRI will leverage the momentum we built during this congressional session, assess the current challenges the industry faces, and chart a new path forward for the industry’s advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels.”
SEMA/PRI will continue its advocacy work to bring needed certainty to the racing community to protect a great American pastime and hundreds of thousands of jobs in communities throughout the country. For updates and information, visit www.saveourracecars.com.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org, www.semashow.com, or www.performanceracing.com.
Ducati World Champion Replicas Sell Out Within Two Hours
Editorial Note: The price for the Ducati Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replicas was $63,000 USD each.
Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica: all available bikes awarded within hours
The limited and numbered series Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica will be produced in 260 examples each, made unique by the rider’s original signature on the tank
The celebratory bikes were presented and displayed during the “Campioni in Piazza2” party
All bikes have been assigned in just a few hours, with many Ducatisti enthusiasts ordering both models
Borgo Panigale, Bologna, 22 December 2022 – In just a few hours all the bikes of the numbered and limited series of 260+260 examples of the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica have been assigned, after being unveiled on the day of “Campioni in Piazza2”, the event with which Ducati celebrated its historic double success in MotoGP and WSBK with its fans.
The bikes were presented at a press conference by Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, together with Pecco Bagnaia and Álvaro Bautista, and proved to be an immediate success, with many Ducatisti wanting to enrich their collection with both Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica bikes. It took only a few days to completely sell out the available examples of the limited series.
Francesco Milicia, VP Global Sales & After Sales Ducati: “2022 has been an incredible year for Ducati both on the track and in the market, confirming the integration and continuous transfer of technology and expertise between production and racing that is unparalleled in the world of motorcycling. We thought the best way to share the successes of 2022 with the most passionate Ducatisti was to provide them with exclusive, numbered bikes, individually signed by Pecco and Álvaro. At this time, when our brand is as solid as ever and projected into the future, we also wanted to pay homage to our history, recalling with both replicas the founding of Ducati, which dates back to 1926″.
The two special series, based on the Panigale V4 S, feature the bike liveries of Pecco Bagnaia #63 and Álvaro Bautista #19. Each model in the series will be autographed in original on the tank by the rider, and the signature will then be protected by a layer of clear coat. The two motorbikes are produced in a limited numbered series of 260, celebrating Ducati’s year of birth, 1926.
The Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica is offered in the single-seater configuration only, enriched by the model name, progressive number and race number laser-engraved on the upper clamp. The technical equipment is enhanced by components such as the dry clutch, Akrapovič street-legal silencer, Brembo Stylema® R calipers with MCS pump, Rizoma billet aluminium adjustable footpegs and racing plexiglass. There are several carbon fibre components: the heat shield for the rear exhaust manifolds, the alternator cover, the front and rear mudguards, the brake manifolds, the cover protecting the single-sided swingarm. The series dedicated to Álvaro Bautista #19 features a brushed aluminium tank, as on the more sophisticated versions of the Panigale V4.
Those who want to exploit the performance of these two motorcycles on the circuit may choose to fit the additional accessories supplied, such as the open carbon fibre clutch cover, the kits for removing number plate holder and mirrors and the racing fuel tank cap in billet aluminium. Each bike will be delivered in a packing case with dedicated graphics and will come with a certificate of authenticity, a personalised bike cover and the Ducati Data Analyser+ data acquisition system.
JP43 Fridays Coming To Chuckwalla In 2023
JP43 Training Coming to Fridays Before SoCal Track Days in 2023
(Desert Center, CA) Jason Pridmore’s JP43 Training, in collaboration with SoCal Track Days, is pleased to announce the launch of the newly developed instructional track day experience – JP43 Fridays. These dates will be added to the 2023 calendar on the Friday before existing SoCal Track Day events at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. The first will be on January 13th, 2023.
The goal is to bridge the gap between a track day and 1-on-1 training. “I’m excited for these new days. I have known Micky Grana for many years and it will be fun for us to add these JP43 Fridays to Chuckwalla Valley Raceway to continue educating riders,” said JP43 Training founder Jason Pridmore.
Each JP43 Friday will consist of a structured track day program that will help riders advance their skills through brief 1-on-1 track-side interaction and formal classroom instruction. The day will start with a thorough track walk each morning followed by classroom and riding. Attendees can expect to learn about topics such as RPM management, proper throttle control, braking, shifting, body positioning, and line choices.
JP43 Fridays will be led by the current JP43 staff which consists of leading professional racers and long-time coaches such as Corey Alexander, Andrew Lee, Michael Gilbert, and James Rispoli. Each of them will be joining Jason Pridmore in providing a taste of what students have become accustomed to during standard JP43 Training 1-on-1 sessions.
Entrants can choose between two riding groups based on skill level. The 30-minute sessions will be capped at just 20 riders for safety and to ensure attendees get the most out of the various instructors throughout the day.
Registration can be done through motorsportsreg.com and for further info email [email protected]
Holiday Greetings From The Motorcycle Industry (Updated Again)
Here are some of the holiday greeting cards received by Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
From Aspar Team
From Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Northern Talent Cup: 2023 Race Calendar Announced
2023 Northern Talent Cup calendar announced
Seven rounds, 14 races, six tracks and four countries await the class of 2023
The provisional 2023 Northern Talent Cup calendar can now be revealed! A seven-round, 14-race season awaits the class of 2023, with six tracks in four countries ready to play host.
The season starts with a test at Oschersleben before the first round of the year alongside WorldSBK at the classic TT Circuit Assen, and from there it’s back to Germany as the Sachsenring and Oschersleben host Rounds 2 and 3 alongside IDM.
The NTC then joins the MotoGP™ paddock for the German Grand Prix back at the Sachsenring, before visits to Most, the Red Bull Ring and Hockenheim to round out the season back with IDM at three more incredible venues.
There’s still time to apply to join the grid too, with applications open until the 31st of December 2022. Click HERE to apply, and find the full calendar below!
World Endurance: Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers Signs De La Vega, Maurin
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore tweaks line-up for EWC Superstock title defense
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore has announced the three riders it will count on during the defense of its FIM Endurance World Cup title in 2023.
While Austrian Philipp Steinmayr, 29, remains a key member of the Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore attack having excelled for the Yamaha-powered French squad in 2022, Enzo De La Vega and Axel Maurin are new recruits for next season following the departures of Hugo Clere and Baptiste Guittet.
Twenty-three-year-old Frenchman De La Vega, a former FIM Supersport 300 World Championship rider, was part of the Team LH Racing EWC Superstock line-up in 2022 with the class victory in the 24H SPA EWC Motos last June a notable highlight.
De La Vega’s compatriot Maurin, 34, is an EWC reference having been part of the Viltaïs team that won the 2016-17 FIM Endurance World Cup. He’s also achieved success in the French Superbike Championship and rode for Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore in the 2014 EWC.
Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore Team Manager Yannick Bureau said: “We are pleased to announce a new line-up for the FIM Endurance World Cup in 2023, which we will start as the title holder. Philipp Steinmayr is naturally driven after a fine progression in 2022, ending in a high-flying performance at the Bol d’Or. In addition to his riding qualities, Philipp displays plenty of mechanical sympathy, he’s very serious and understands the importance of working hard for the team.
“Reinforcing the line-up for 2023 will be Axel Maurin, a real reference of endurance and speed and a former Team 18 rider in EWC. As a pillar of our team, it was always written that he would return one day.
“Enzo is still an endurance rookie having only recently started in the discipline. Despite being only 23 he has already impressed the paddock with his performances and potential. He’s ultra-motivated and looking to continue his progression with a team like ours. There is still more to come from him and that’s what convinced us to put our trust in him as we work to defend our title in 2023.”
The 2023 FIM Endurance World Championship gets underway with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans in France from 13-16 April. Click HERE to view the full calendar.
Sponsored Content: Dunlop Roadsmart IV Offers Better Handling, Grip & Mileage
Dunlop Roadsmart IV
The all-new Roadsmart IV delivers best-in-class handling, grip, and mileage. Featuring a completely new tread pattern, construction, compounds, profiles, and new technology.
ADDITIONAL TIRE FEATURES
- Compared to the Roadsmart III, the RSIV increases mileage by 23 percent in the front and 26 percent in the rear.**
- New tread patterns, construction, compounds, and profiles increase ride comfort, grip, and mileage.
- New technology allows the RSIV to maintain its high performance throughout its lifespan.
- MT Multi-Tread™ technology in the rear tire uses a long-wearing compound in the center and special lateral compounds on the shoulders for outstanding grip.
- New sidewall construction improves wet and dry handling and comfort.
- **Testing performed by Dunlop in Japan on a 2018 Honda CB1300 SB with tire sizes 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear on 40% public roads and 60% highways. Mileage results may vary.
https://www.dunlopmotorcycletires.com/tire-line/sportmax-roadsmart-iv/
Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: 2023 Schedule Released
The Rookies Cup is not getting old
2023 will see the 17th season of Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup action. The coming year begins with the preseason test in Portimão, the opening two races are also there at the Portuguese Grand Prix before moving to Jerez and on around Europe.
Sunday at the Spanish Grand Prix features race 4 of 2023 and the 200th Rookies Cup race.
Next we are returning to Le Mans for the first time since 2008, our second season when we had single race at the classic French venue.
Then to the more familiar stamping grounds of Mugello, Assen and Spielberg before ending the year on the Adriatic coast in Misano.
It promises another 14 fabulous action packed races with 26 of the world’s fastest teenagers determined to learn and prove their worth before stepping up to the World Championship classes like more than 50% of past Rookies have done. 26 of them have won 161 GPs and 10 World Championships
38 Nations have been represented in the Rookies Cup to date and, including the 2023 entry, 237 super fast teens will have had the chance to race on some of the worlds greatest Grand Prix circuits on the Moto3 spec KTMs.
Provisional Calendar
Preseason Test
March 15-16 – Portimão (Portugal)
Races
1&2 March 25-26 – Portimão (Portugal)
3&4 April 29-30 – Jerez (Spain)
5&6 May 13-14 – Le Mans (France)
7&8 June 10-11 – Mugello (Italy)
9&10 June 24-25 – Assen (Netherlands)
11&12 August 19-20 – Spielberg (Austria)
13&14 September 9-10 – Misano (Italy)
Provisional Entry List
2 Amaury Mizera (France)
5 Leo Rammerstorfer (Austria)
8 Eddie O‘Shea (Great Britain)
11 Ruché Moodley (South Africa)
12 Jacob Roulstone (Australia)
13 Hakim Danish (Malaysia)
14 Cormac Buchanan (New Zealand)
18 Angel Piqueras (Spain)
23 Rhys Stephenson (Great Britain)
25 Alexander Enriquez (United States)
27 Rico Salmela (Finland)
28 Máximo Quiles (Spain)
47 Edoardo Boggio (Italy)
50 Carter Thompson (Australia)
54 Alberto Ferrandez (Spain)
56 Kevin Farkas (Hungary)
57 Danial Shahril (Malaysia)
67 Casey O’Gorman (Ireland)
69 Marcos Ruda (Spain)
78 Jakob Rosenthaler (Austria)
81 Lorenz Luciano (Belgium)
83 Alvaro Carpe (Spain)
88 Shinya Ezawa (Japan)
93 Arbi Aditama (Indonesia)
94 Guido Pini (Italy)
95 Marco Chincolla (Argentina)
World Supersport: D34G Racing Signs Bayliss, Kofler
D34G Racing steps up to World Supersport with Oliver Bayliss, Maximilian Kofler to tackle WorldSSP Challenge
D34G Racing is ready for a new challenge following an encouraging debut on the international stage last year. The team led by Davide Giugliano will again run a two-rider line-up in 2023, but with one half tackling the full World Supersport season. The name chosen for this important milestone is none other than Oliver ‘Oli’ Bayliss, while Maximilian Kofler will be his teammate in the European rounds (WorldSSP Challenge).
Bayliss, the 19-year-old Australian son of three-time WorldSBK champion Troy, made his World Supersport debut last year aboard a Ducati Panigale V2 955 with a sixth place as current best result scored in race two at Estoril in May. Despite his young age, he has already a great wealth of experience in motorcycle racing having started as early as 14 in the ASBK (Australian) Championship.
Austria’s Kofler also made his World Supersport debut in 2022 aboard Ducati machinery, after two full seasons in the Moto3 World Championship and wildcard appearances in 2018 and 2019, whilst racing in the Moto3 Junior World Championship.
The team will work hard to be ready for winter testing, which will begin in the second half of January as well as for the 2023 season kicking off at Phillip Island on February 24-26. Kofler’s season will begin at the TT Circuit in Assen in April (21-23).
OLIVER BAYLISS
“I’m super happy to be going into the new season with D34G racing run by Davide Giugliano. 2023 will be my second year in the WorldSSP category and with the Ducati Panigale V2 955, so I’m looking forward to building on the experience made in my rookie season, keeping my progression moving and make it a good one. I’ll train hard during the off-season to be ready for the first test and cannot wait to get started. See you all in 2023. A big thank you goes to all my sponsors and supporters who have been behind me.”
MAXIMILIAN KOFLER
“I’m really happy to join the D34G Racing team. I’m also thankful to Davide and the whole group for this fresh opportunity after what was a very challenging first year in World Supersport. They trust me to ride the Ducati at its full potential and I’m over the moon – I can’t wait to get started! I’m sure that with Davide’s experience and the crew’s skills we can do a really good job and make strides in the upcoming season. I will only do the European rounds this time, but this motivates me even further to make the most of it. I’m also happy to have Oli as teammate, because we’re good friends. It’s a great opportunity for both of us and we’ll be able to help each other and push each other to the limit.”
DAVIDE GIUGLIANO – TEAM MANAGER D34G RACING
“We wrapped up 2022 on a high and with excellent results, which give us great motivation ahead of the new season. We renewed the whole line up for 2023: we will have two, new and young riders in Oli Bayliss and Maximilian Kofler. Both did a great job in 2022 aboard Ducati machinery, so we give them a warm welcome. I cannot wait for the season to get underway: testing will commence very soon, in the second half of January, and I’m looking forward to seeing them aboard our bikes.”
Buell Partners With FreedomRoad Financial
Buell® Motorcycle Aligns with FreedomRoad Financial, Names Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations
Buell Motorcycles, a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles, has forged a new alliance with FreedomRoad Financial, a division of Evergreen Bank Group, Member FDIC. By announcing this relationship, Buell is pleased to answer fans’ calls for consumer financing options.
“We couldn’t be more excited to offer enthusiasts this resource. Bottom line, it means we can put more Buell bikes under more riders,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycles. “We’re already known for offering a unique motorcycling experience – helping customers get their dream bike. Now they can also get a great financing option.”
FreedomRoad Financial is one of the largest U.S. powersports lending companies, taking great pride in maintaining the highest customer service and dealer satisfaction. But above all, they understand the rider lifestyle and work hard to help customers optimize it.
These are qualities Buell takes very seriously, and that is why Buell is equally pleased to introduce and welcome Chris Pobanz, the company’s first Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations. With decades of experience in powersports, Pobanz is perfect for this new consumer relations position. He walks clients step-by-step through ordering their new, custom-made Buell, helping them navigate the numerous design decision along the way. These include appearance preferences, accessories, and more.
In the production phase, Pobanz works closely with buyers to monitor the manufacturing schedule, keeping them informed of their place in the queue and tracking their bike’s delivery via specialized carriers when it’s ready to ship.
As important as building the perfect motorcycle for every client, Pobanz specializes in two areas. One is setting up each buyer’s Buell service center – as the purchase of every made-to-order Buell comes with its own client-located Approved Service Center. The other is acting as the point person for clients who wish to finance through FreedomRoad Financial.
“I’m excited for Buell owners to have new financing options through FreedomRoad Financial, as well as their authorized service center,” said Chris Pobanz. “Buell clients deserve world-class products and support, and that is what we’re going to give them. Having the world’s most powerful bikes built right here in Grand Rapids, Michigan, makes me proud to be an American and proud to be a member of the Buell Team!”
Strategically, Pobanz’s new role is Buell’s next big step in fulfilling its brand promise: Buells are different and so is the buying experience. Fueled by growth, CEO Bill Melvin is confident in adding a team member dedicated to ensuring that each client receives the motorcycle of their dreams. “Our direct-to-consumer business model gives buyers an up-close-and-personal relationship with Buell,” said Melvin. “Our desire to create a unique, enjoyable, high-touch buyer experience goes hand-in-hand with everything Buell stands for, and Chris is the right man for the job.”
Buell is back and delivering performance and excitement at every turn. For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com Email for Information: [email protected]
RPM Act To Protect Motorsports Industry Fails To Pass Congress
SEMA STATEMENT ON THE STATUS OF THE RECOGNIZING THE PROTECTION OF MOTORSPORTS (RPM) ACT
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Dec. 22, 2022) – SEMA and PRI must share that despite strong Congressional backing and extraordinary support from the racing community, the 2021-2022 Congressional session is ending without passage of the RPM Act.
Key negotiators in Congress could not reach an agreement on bill language that balanced the need for federal law to protect racers and motorsports parts businesses from EPA enforcement with reasonable measures to ensure that race parts are not used on vehicles driven on roads and public highways.
The RPM Act made incredible progress in the 2021-2022 session of Congress. In addition to more than 1.5 million letters advocating for the RPM Act from the grassroots motorsports community to Congress, SEMA and PRI worked with Richard Petty to meet personally with key lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and with NHRA Top Fuel driver Antron Brown to testify before the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.
SEMA and PRI thank the RPM Act’s lead sponsors, the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee, and the House Energy & Commerce Committee for their efforts to advance the RPM Act over the course of this year. Their leadership was integral throughout this process, despite the outcome.
“We wouldn’t have made it this far without this incredible effort by so many of our members,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “The RPM Act was one of the most bipartisan bills in the 117th Congress with over 165 lawmakers cosponsoring the legislation. SEMA and PRI will leverage the momentum we built during this congressional session, assess the current challenges the industry faces, and chart a new path forward for the industry’s advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels.”
SEMA/PRI will continue its advocacy work to bring needed certainty to the racing community to protect a great American pastime and hundreds of thousands of jobs in communities throughout the country. For updates and information, visit www.saveourracecars.com.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org, www.semashow.com, or www.performanceracing.com.
Ducati World Champion Replicas Sell Out Within Two Hours
Editorial Note: The price for the Ducati Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replicas was $63,000 USD each.
Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica: all available bikes awarded within hours
The limited and numbered series Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica will be produced in 260 examples each, made unique by the rider’s original signature on the tank
The celebratory bikes were presented and displayed during the “Campioni in Piazza2” party
All bikes have been assigned in just a few hours, with many Ducatisti enthusiasts ordering both models
Borgo Panigale, Bologna, 22 December 2022 – In just a few hours all the bikes of the numbered and limited series of 260+260 examples of the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica have been assigned, after being unveiled on the day of “Campioni in Piazza2”, the event with which Ducati celebrated its historic double success in MotoGP and WSBK with its fans.
The bikes were presented at a press conference by Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, together with Pecco Bagnaia and Álvaro Bautista, and proved to be an immediate success, with many Ducatisti wanting to enrich their collection with both Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica bikes. It took only a few days to completely sell out the available examples of the limited series.
Francesco Milicia, VP Global Sales & After Sales Ducati: “2022 has been an incredible year for Ducati both on the track and in the market, confirming the integration and continuous transfer of technology and expertise between production and racing that is unparalleled in the world of motorcycling. We thought the best way to share the successes of 2022 with the most passionate Ducatisti was to provide them with exclusive, numbered bikes, individually signed by Pecco and Álvaro. At this time, when our brand is as solid as ever and projected into the future, we also wanted to pay homage to our history, recalling with both replicas the founding of Ducati, which dates back to 1926″.
The two special series, based on the Panigale V4 S, feature the bike liveries of Pecco Bagnaia #63 and Álvaro Bautista #19. Each model in the series will be autographed in original on the tank by the rider, and the signature will then be protected by a layer of clear coat. The two motorbikes are produced in a limited numbered series of 260, celebrating Ducati’s year of birth, 1926.
The Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica is offered in the single-seater configuration only, enriched by the model name, progressive number and race number laser-engraved on the upper clamp. The technical equipment is enhanced by components such as the dry clutch, Akrapovič street-legal silencer, Brembo Stylema® R calipers with MCS pump, Rizoma billet aluminium adjustable footpegs and racing plexiglass. There are several carbon fibre components: the heat shield for the rear exhaust manifolds, the alternator cover, the front and rear mudguards, the brake manifolds, the cover protecting the single-sided swingarm. The series dedicated to Álvaro Bautista #19 features a brushed aluminium tank, as on the more sophisticated versions of the Panigale V4.
Those who want to exploit the performance of these two motorcycles on the circuit may choose to fit the additional accessories supplied, such as the open carbon fibre clutch cover, the kits for removing number plate holder and mirrors and the racing fuel tank cap in billet aluminium. Each bike will be delivered in a packing case with dedicated graphics and will come with a certificate of authenticity, a personalised bike cover and the Ducati Data Analyser+ data acquisition system.
JP43 Fridays Coming To Chuckwalla In 2023
JP43 Training Coming to Fridays Before SoCal Track Days in 2023
(Desert Center, CA) Jason Pridmore’s JP43 Training, in collaboration with SoCal Track Days, is pleased to announce the launch of the newly developed instructional track day experience – JP43 Fridays. These dates will be added to the 2023 calendar on the Friday before existing SoCal Track Day events at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. The first will be on January 13th, 2023.
The goal is to bridge the gap between a track day and 1-on-1 training. “I’m excited for these new days. I have known Micky Grana for many years and it will be fun for us to add these JP43 Fridays to Chuckwalla Valley Raceway to continue educating riders,” said JP43 Training founder Jason Pridmore.
Each JP43 Friday will consist of a structured track day program that will help riders advance their skills through brief 1-on-1 track-side interaction and formal classroom instruction. The day will start with a thorough track walk each morning followed by classroom and riding. Attendees can expect to learn about topics such as RPM management, proper throttle control, braking, shifting, body positioning, and line choices.
JP43 Fridays will be led by the current JP43 staff which consists of leading professional racers and long-time coaches such as Corey Alexander, Andrew Lee, Michael Gilbert, and James Rispoli. Each of them will be joining Jason Pridmore in providing a taste of what students have become accustomed to during standard JP43 Training 1-on-1 sessions.
Entrants can choose between two riding groups based on skill level. The 30-minute sessions will be capped at just 20 riders for safety and to ensure attendees get the most out of the various instructors throughout the day.
Registration can be done through motorsportsreg.com and for further info email [email protected]