WorldSBK and Pirelli extend partnership until 2026
Dorna WSBK Organization and Pirelli have announced the extension of their partnership for another three years. Pirelli will remain the Official Tyre Supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, up to and including the 2026 season.
This long-standing partnership, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has been a testament to the success of the collaboration between DWO and Pirelli. The two organisations have worked together closely to develop high-quality, reliable, and high-performance tyres that are essential to the safety and success of the riders.
WorldSBK provides a competitive and challenging environment for Pirelli to develop and innovate its tyres continually. As such, the Championship is a key tyre development platform in Pirelli’s motorcycle strategy and the extension of the partnership confirms Pirelli’s commitment to the Championship as a crucial part of its motorsports involvement.
DWO is delighted to continue its partnership with Pirelli, and both parties look forward to working together to further improve the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship. The renewed partnership will undoubtedly help to enhance the competitiveness and excitement of the Championship, providing riders, teams, and fans with a thrilling experience.
Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli:
“This year we are celebrating an important milestone: in fact, it has been 20 years that we have been alongside the FIM Superbike World Championship as sole supplier for all classes. A road, begun in 2004, which represented the first example of a single-tyre formula in the history of top motorsport competitions and which, years later, has proven to be a winning choice, later followed by other championships. Motorsport has historically been an integral part of Pirelli’s DNA and this renewal is in line with our corporate strategy which sees World Superbike as a key platform for the development of our motorcycle tyres, starting with racing and super sports tyres. We are happy to continue this adventure alongside Dorna, the teams and riders until 2026 whilst continuing to offer motorcyclists from all over the world tyres that contain the best of Superbike-derived technology”.
Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director for DWO
“Pirelli has proved time and again to be a perfect match for WorldSBK as our sole Official Tyre Supplier. Not only does our partnership ensure a great level of quality and performance to our teams and riders throughout the season on a wide variety of venues, but they also completely embraced the values and philosophy of the Championship by bringing to the race track the products they offer to motorcyclists. WorldSBK has evolved through numerous eras and phases since we started to work with Pirelli and the fact that we’ve been building on this mutually beneficial collaboration over the past 20 years is unprecedented. So, it’s with great enthusiasm that we’re looking towards the future of WorldSBK and Pirelli together as the Championship evolves and new challenges arise.”
Nicolo Bulega, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2, topped World Supersport Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona – Catalunya, in Spain.
The Italian rider lapped the 2.894-mile (4.657 km) circuit in 1:44.740, which was quicker than Dominique Aegerter’s 2022 Race Lap Record of 1:45.157.
0.747s advantage for Bulega after Friday, Tuuli and Sofuoglu second and third
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega was fastest on Friday as the Ducati rider was 0.747s quickest than Tuuli.
P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team| 1’44.740s
” It was a very good day for me. This morning not too much because I didn’t have the feeling, I had in Assen but then we putted our base setting and I felt much better. I was able to push from the beginning with the SC0 and then when I put the SCX I improved a lot my lap time. For sure we started with a package that I know here in Barcelona, so it was good. Because last year when we came here, we didn’t have any info, any settings. I’m happy because I improved my lap time from last year. I can’t explain why I am so much faster than the other today but it’s a nice sensation to be able to push when I want. The feeling is good, the race pace is good so I will try to do another good weekend.”
Niki Tuuli (66). Photo courtesy Dorna.
A 1’45.487s gave second place to Triumph’s Niki Tuuli, while Bahattin Sofuoglu was third for MV Agusta. This means that there were four different manufacturers in the top five.
Bahattin Sofuoglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSSP Friday Report
Race lap record pace was on display at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the FIM Supersport World Championship as Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) topped the timesheets on Friday at the Prosecco DOC Catalunya Round. Bulega’s best time was more than seven tenths clear of the rest of the field as he went under the existing race lap record, set in 2022, by four tenths of a second in Friday’s Free Practice 2 session.
Bulega posted a 1’44.740s to claim top spot in both FP2 and the combined classification at the end of Friday’s running as he finished 0.747s clear of his nearest rivals. He was the only rider to lap in the 1’44s bracket on his way to finishing first, with Finnish rider Niki Tuuli (Dynavolt Triumph) in second place. His best time, a 1’45.487s, came in FP2 but was still some seven tenths down on Bulega’s time. In third place was Bahattin Sofuoglu (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) who was one of just four riders who did not improve their time in the afternoon. His best time was a 1’45.582s and was set in Free Practice 1, where he topped the times. His day was disrupted by a crash in the morning but it was late in the session and he lost minimal running time.
Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing Team) took fourth spot in the combined classification despite a top-three finish in FP2, lapping 0.854s slower than pacesetter Bulega. Caricasulo was ahead of compatriot Stefano Manzi (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha) in fifth place after he set a best time of 1’45.646s in FP2 while Australian rider Oli Bayliss (D34G Racing) burst into the top six in the combined classification. His best time was a 1’45.749s to claim sixth spot overall on Friday.
WorldSSP action resumes on Saturday with the Tissot Superpole from 10:25 (Local Time), followed Race 1 at 15:15.
Defending World Champion Alvaro Bautista, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, was quickest in World Superbike Free Practice Two Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain.
In spite of having 250 rpm less to work with, Bautista’s best lap time was a 1:41.486, which topped his teammate Michael Rinaldi’s 1:41.836.
Jonathan Rea, using an extra 250 rpm on his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR, was third-fastest in the session with a 1:42.015.
American Garrett Gerloff was fourth with a 1:42.235 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR. In combined times, however, Gerloff ranked 10th on Friday.
Ducati 1-2 on Day 1 of the Prosecco DOC Catalunya Round
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista leads teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi on Friday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The Championship leader was 0.147s quicker than Rinaldi.
“For sure, I think it has been very positive especially because we were focused on race pace. In the morning, I tried the new spec that Pirelli brought here on the front. I didn’t have really good feedback on the tyre, but the bike was working more or less like normal. We decided to use it for the race distance to see how it was at the end. It was quite consistent, but the feeling was not too good from the beginning. Also, on the rear with the SCX tyre, it was maybe not the best moment to use it, but we wanted to use it just to see how it was for the race distance. I felt a big drop this morning so, in the afternoon, we used the SC1 on the front; I like this tyre. Suddenly, I found a good feeling with the bike and the bike worked like it did in the test or the other rounds. In the rear, with the 800, we did 16 laps and it was better than the SCX in the morning. The grip was not very different, but I think the tyre life was a bit better, I could be more consistent with the lap times. I was able to do many mid-1’42s, which is a good pace especially because this afternoon the conditions were a bit difficult. With this heat, the grip is very low, and you have to be very precise.”
“I saw the lap times from the other riders and I think my teammate, Rinaldi, can fight for victory. We can’t forget Toprak and Jonathan. Maybe today they were not super fast in race pace but tomorrow and on Sunday they will be there. We have to pay attention to Aegerter. He had a really impressive pace and also Lecuona. They are two riders who can fight, at least, for a podium.”
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi finished second on Friday with a fastest time of 1’41.633s set in the morning session.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea concluded Friday’s running in third place only 0.166s behind Bautista. He was one of many riders unable to improve in the afternoon session.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu set the fourth fastest time on Friday with a 1’41.652s. The Yamaha rider set his fastest time in the morning session, as did his teammate Andrea Locatelli who completed Friday’s top six despite a crash in FP2.
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Local rider Iker Lecuona was fifth for Honda with a 1’42.068s. Teammate Xavi Vierge was eighth despite a crash in FP1.
WorldSBK Friday Report
The sun shone strongly at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the 2023 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship on Friday, with the field taking to the circuit with a track temperature approaching 50 degrees. Come the end of the day, it was Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) who was in a league of his own, with a strong lap time at the end of the session being the icing on top of a strong race run cake.
With an additional 20 degrees of track temperature, it was somewhat unsurprising to see the Ducatis so strong on Friday afternoon. Alvaro Bautista remains the rider to beat over the long distance however, with a strong race pace in the morning and in the afternoon, with a run of 14 laps achieved in the 1’42s in FP1, more than his rivals. In the afternoon, Bautista did a 16-lap run, all of which were in the low-to-mid 1’42s before going out and setting a 1’41.486 to set the outright best time of the day, which will certainly make his rivals sit up and look. Teammate Rinaldi was second at the end of the day but didn’t improve his time at the end. Fastest in the first session in the morning, Michael Ruben Rinaldi came out the blocks fighting from the start and that translated into the afternoon too, as he was once again one of the riders to beat. Jonathan Rea’s (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) afternoon wasn’t as strong as his morning session, with Rea outside of the top ten in 11th place for a lot of the session before ultimately finishing third. Due to everyone else struggling to better their opening time, Rea took third overall, but he’ll be fighting for the podium or the top five if race pace from the afternoon is anything to go by.
As for the blue corner, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) was third on the combined times but was inside the top five throughout FP2, as he enjoyed the heavy braking areas of Turn 1 and Turn 10. The Turk hasn’t won in Barcelona but will hope that he can turn that around this weekend. Teammate Andrea Locatelli’s afternoon saw him strong inside the top nine but he crashed at Turn 5. Losing the front, it was a typical Turn 5 tumble, but it was a costly error, as a new SC0 tyre needed to be tested and time is always of the essence. At the end of the day, Razgatlioglu was third and Locatelli remained sixth.
It was a strong opening day for Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) and Honda, as they always shine in Barcelona – whether it is testing or not. Lecuona’s pace was in the 1’42s, and a solid effort will hope to be rewarded throughout the remainder of the weekend. As for teammate Xavi Vierge, he crashed in FP1 at Turn 1 but remounted but he wasn’t quite there in the afternoon, down in 12th, one place behind teammate Iker Lecuona. Come the end of the day however, they were still fifth and eighth and that will be filling Leon Camier’s team with confidence going forwards.
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday with FP3 from 09:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
More, from a press release issued by GYTR GRT Yamaha:
AEGERTER AND GARDNER FOCUSING ON RACE PACE ON DAY 1 IN BARCELONA
Dominique Aegerter and Remy Gardner returned to action on May 5th at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, finishing 7th and 12th on combined times.
The GYTR GRT Yamaha pair enjoyed good weather conditions in the first Free Practice session. Aegerter and Gardner primarily focused on long-distance runs using the same tyres for the whole session, showing speed throughout the 45-minute practice. The Swiss rider placed himself 7th (1’42.084), with his Australian teammate 11th (1’42.649).
Later, in the hotter Free Practice 2, the #77 and the #87 kept trying to gain maximum potential for the race, with Gardner practicing once again with used tyres, using one set for the session. His teammate, Domi, also went for longer runs to be ready for the long-distance race. Aegerter still managed to put his name inside the Top 5 (1’42.305), while the Australian was 15th (1’43.202). Neither improved on their morning lap times.
“It hasn’t been a bad Friday. Our main focus was on longer runs to be as ready as possible for the long races. We know the last laps here will be crucial because we’ve seen it in the past, and honestly our race pace was solid. I hope we can make one more step forward and have a good qualifying session, as starting near the front would help us manage the races better.”
“It wasn’t the easiest day to be honest; we had a small issue in the early stages of FP2, and then when I went out again it was tough to manage the tyres. Anyway, we just focused on race pace today, and we’ll keep working on analysing the data we have as we know consumption will play a key role here.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
Rea Third Fastest On Day One In Catalunya
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes took part in the first day of track action at their KRT squad’s home WorldSBK round in Barcelona- Catalunya, with Rea finishing up third quickest and Lowes ninth overall.
Warm and dry weather was the backdrop to Friday’s opening action at the Montmelo circuit near Barcelona with the second free practice session in the afternoon proving to be hotter than the first. The track temperature almost reached 50°C in FP2.
Rea was to finish up on the ‘virtual’ overnight front row thanks to his 1’41.652 time from the morning session, which was held in relatively cool conditions.
Lowes worked on his race pace from the start and like his team-mate Rea he set his best single lap time in the morning session, when the track temperature only rose to 35°C.
Each rider’s technical staff will now combine the experiences and information from practice day one at the 4.657 long Montmelo circuit with the data they collected during a private test here a few weeks ago to come up with the best possible set-up to take on the first challenge of a 20-lap Race One on Saturday May 6.
Sunday May 7 will feature the ten-lap Tissot-Superpole race and then the final full distance Race Two, over 20 laps.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “We used something on the bike today to change the front geometry. It was a strange day for me because I had mixed feelings this morning. The temperature was lower and I was relatively fast but I didn’t have a really good feeling. It seemed like I was competitive, even with some laps in the tyres, as I had a similar drop to our main rivals. We pursued that new set-up into the afternoon but I didn’t feel good on the bike. The feeling to get to the apex at the end of the braking stage meant I had no confidence. The heat just amplified that problem. It was a bit frustrating today but we had to try something, so tomorrow we will try to improve on the base that we had at the test.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “We worked on our race distance set-up today, on used tyres, but clearly in these hot conditions we are struggling. We need to have a good chat with the guys in the team and try to make a plan of how we can improve for Saturday. Both our front and rear tyres are not lasting the distance and we are using the hardest solutions. So we have to think about some things for the first race tomorrow.”
Young Czech rider Oliver König (Orelac Racing Movisio Kawasaki) was 18th from 25 riders after one day of practice in Catalunya. Isaac Vinales (TPR by Vinales Racing Kawasaki) was 22nd and Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was 24th after the first two practice sessions.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Put to Work in Friday Free Practice
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli completed a productive opening day at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, at the fourth round of the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship today.
The Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK crew put their heads down and got to work over two 45-minute Free Practice sessions, in search of set-up and strategies to manage tyre life on the Calatan circuit’s long, demanding corners. Diligent work ethic trumped outright lap time once again, as both riders focused on long-run pace for the three points-paying races to take place this weekend.
The afternoon was punctuated only by a small low-side crash on entry into Turn 5 for Locatelli, who was able to recover his R1 WorldSBK to the pit box quickly to minimise time lost during the session. He finished the day sixth overall, with teammate Razgatlıoğlu also finishing a solid fourth.
Tomorrow starts bright and early in the Spanish sunshine with pit lane open for Free Practice 3 at 09:00 local time (CEST), followed by Superpole qualifying at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P4 – 1’41.719
“First I say that this morning we did not start really strong, but now I am feeling my bike is much better. Maybe also I am not really strong on this track, but I try my best – this track has many long corners, you know – not like my stop-go style! But I try to change my riding a little bit, just try to keep more speed in the corner, more flowing. I did a race simulation in FP2, it was not bad! We did good lap times for 17 laps and it looks better than last year, but we will see in the race – the race is always more difficult! I am just fighting for the podium, we will try to follow Bautista as close as possible – first is important qualifying, I need pole position again!”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli: P6 – 1’42.079
“A bit difficult today, especially in FP2 – the temperature on track was higher but the feeling on the bike was not so bad, more or less similar to FP1, but when I tried to do the long run I crashed in Turn 5, so unfortunately we lost a little bit of the opportunity to work a lot to understand the tyre for the race. But anyway, we just need to know what we want to do for tomorrow – which is to find a little bit more feeling, especially in the front and to try to stop the bike a bit better. We will see what we can do in FP3, and then we will wait to see what is possible in Race 1. For sure, it will not be easy with the track temperature, but we will try to be ready and fight for the podium!”
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK:
“There’s no avoiding the fact that Barcelona has always been a tough track for us to perform at our best level, but today, the team and our riders have responded really positively to the challenge – and we’ve had a solid start to the weekend. Our outright pace is not bad and this afternoon’s very near race distance long run with Toprak was a big improvement on where we were last year. Loka had a small crash at Turn 5 – it’s easy to make a mistake on the downhill, off-camber turn in to that particular corner – but the positives are that he was completely unharmed, and that we were able to fix the bike quickly enough to get him back out to finish the session at a decent level. A better start today than perhaps expected – well done to the whole group and the riders, we’ll keep pushing tomorrow and try to maximise the results.”
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC Honda:
Nothing to choose between Lecuona and Vierge at Barcelona home track
Team HRC riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge are out at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, their home track, for the fourth round of the 2023 Superbike World Championship. Separated by just 27 thousandths of a second in terms of lap time, both made a solid start for at their home track.
Despite having jumped straight back on the CBR1000RR-R after riding the HRC MotoGP bike just last weekend, Iker was immediately up among the frontrunners during Friday morning’s FP1, showing consistent pace and setting a number of fast laps. His best time, a 1’42.068, saw him place fifth at the end of this first phase. Team-mate Vierge also made good progress throughout the 45-minute session, a fastest time of 1’42.095 securing him eighth. This, despite the fact that an innocuous crash in the final minutes prevented him from further improving on this time.
The second session ran in sunny conditions much like FP1 but on much hotter asphalt (49°C). Focusing largely on their race pace on used tyres, both feel optimistic heading into the weekend. Thanks to their best times set during the morning’s session, Lecuona rounded out day one in fifth position in the combined standings, closely followed by Vierge in eighth place.
Tomorrow will see Team HRC return to the Barcelona track for Superpole and the first of the races making up this fourth championship round.
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Iker Lecuona 7
P5
“I’m happy to be back here with my team and bike. We arrived having already done a lot of setup work during the recent test we had. To be honest, after spending the last weekend in MotoGP I was expecting to need a bit more time to regain that WorldSBK feeling and so I was surprised to feel comfortable and fast after just four or five laps. It was a very good session and we just weren’t able to find the feeling with a different tyre spec, basically because it’s the first time we’re trying it after having missed the chance to use it during testing due to my crash. In the afternoon I spoke with my crew chief and basically changed the plan entirely, because I thought we should focus on working on race distance. It was something I had been thinking all day and we’re very happy with the outcome of the afternoon’s session because there was much less of a drop compared to last year, despite the fact that the temperature was higher and that I always lapped alone. So I’m very happy and we will now analyse the data and see if there is any fine tuning we can do to further reduce the tyre drop. I want to thank the team for their hard work and tomorrow we go again!”
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“It has been a good day for us, and I had good feeling right from the start despite a small crash in FP1. It was insignificant, in fact it was good to find the limit early, if anything. Thanks to the team because they repaired the bike in time for FP2 and that session also went well. We completed two long runs to try and understand our pace in such hot conditions and the feeling was not so bad. As ever, we need to improve a bit with the new tyres, but the race pace is there so I’m happy with how day one has gone. Now we’ll see if we can make another little step forward tomorrow. As always, our first target for Saturday is to do as well as we can in qualifying.”
More, from a press release issued by team Go-Eleven:
TOUGH START FOR GO ELEVEN, UNEXPECTED GAP AT THE END OF DAY 1- MONTMELO’!
Philip Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Team Go-Eleven.
Really tough Friday on the Barcelona track! Unexpected difficulties since the morning, a lack of grip that creates more than a few headaches for the Ducati Go Eleven, without finding, so far, an important solution. Certainly, on the Catalunya circuit, we expected a different day, both in terms of gap and feeling. But it’s only Friday, and there’s still plenty of time to improve and rebuild a good performance.
FP1 took place in almost perfect conditions, 20 degrees in the air, warm sun that welcomed all the WorldSBK protagonists. Philipp entered on the rear SC0, trying to gain confidence and find a good set-up to work on over the weekend. Right from the start he complained about a big lack of grip, which generated excessive rear sliding; Montmelò is a very particular track from this point of view, every year it throws the riders into a crisis both in terms of race management and set-up. Already in the morning it was possible to understand that the big difference will be made at the end of the race, by managing the drop of the tyres well. At the end of the morning session, a new rear tyre solution was tested, which did not provide a huge difference in terms of performance.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 M. Rinaldi 1.41.633
P 2 J. Rea + 0.019
P 3 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.088
…
P 15 P. Oettl + 1.725
For FP 2, the Team tried to make some changes to the balance of the bike, working on the rear shock, swingarm and heights. In the first stint he completed the tyres used in FP 1, then in the final stages the time attack meant an improvement in performance, but without being able to make an impact. Laptime is still too high compared to our reference group, it will be essential to work well in the evening to find some new solution to be evaluated tomorrow. Even more with the high temperatures, the second half of the race will prove be critical. Still to understand the best compound over the long distance. To move up the rankings, the only way is to work, to analyze well the data we have collected, remaining focused and determined.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.41.486
P 2 M. Rinaldi + 0.350
P 3 J. Rea + 0.529
…
P 16 P. Oettl + 1.948
Philipp Oettl (Rider): “Today it’s a difficult day for us, I think the others have a small advantage due to the recent tests here, at Montmelò, but we have room for improvement. We keep working, to achieve a good solution for tomorrow, the drop of the tyre will be really important tomorrow and on Sunday. I think we made a small step forward in the FP 2, but now we have to do another one in the right direction!”
More, from a press release issued by PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team:
PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda team prepares for the Barcelona races
The PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda team is back in action at a hot and sunny Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain, the stage for this weekend’s fourth Superbike World Championship round.
During the day’s first free practice session, riders Hafizh Syahrin, who turned 29 today, and Eric Granado made gradual progress, the pair now feeling increasingly confident aboard their CBR1000RR-R machines. Keen to do well at his home round, Granado (who lives in Barcelona) made a good step in the final minutes of the session, a fastest time of 1’43.423 moving him up into sixteenth place. Making changes to the setup throughout the course of the first practice, Syahrin set a best of 1’43.576 to close a little over a tenth from his team-mate in eighteenth place.
Back out for free practice 2 a little later in the day and on hotter asphalt, both riders continued to work hard, focusing largely on the tyres considering that tyre wear is a particular issue at this track, and even more so in high temperatures. Although neither was able to improve on their earlier FP1 references, due largely to the higher track temperatures, both Granado (17th) and Syahrin (19th) feel prepared for the weekend’s races, the first of which will play out tomorrow afternoon after the Superpole qualifying session.
Eric Granado (51). Photo courtesy PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team.
Eric Granado P17
“We’ve worked to prepare for the races, testing the different tyre options that we have available because Barcelona is a very unique track in terms of tyre wear. it’s also very hot this weekend so we’re focusing a lot on this aspect in order to have a good setting for the races. I’m pleased so far and tomorrow we have another practice in which to continue to work so that we have a good bike for race 1. The track is 50°C this afternoon, hotter than we expected, and races in conditions like this are always tough, not just physically but also on the tyres so it’s really important to prepare in this area so that we can get to the end of the race in decent shape.”
Hafizh Syahrin (35). Photo courtesy PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team
Hafizh Syahrin P19
“We’ve made a good start, but I feel like there are still some points where we can improve and find another few tenths. With the feeling I have right now, I believe we can be in the points zone this weekend. I’ve been quite consistent despite the hot conditions, so if we can take another small step technically in tomorrow’s FP3 and in qualifying, then hopefully we can run a good race. The conditions are unexpectedly hot, but it is the same for everyone of course, so we’ll do our best. It’s my birthday today so it’s nice to be racing here on my birthday weekend.”
Bahattin Sofuoglu, the nephew of multi-time World Champion Kenan Sofuoglu, topped World Supersport Free Practice One Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his MV Agusta Reparto Corse F3 RR 800cc triple, Sofuoglu did a best lap time of 1:45.582.
Michael Rinaldi, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, led a tight World Superbike Free Practice One Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain.
In spite of having 250 rpm less to work with, Rinaldi’s best lap time was a 1:41.633, which topped the 1:41.652 Jonathan Rea did using an extra 250 rpm on his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.
Toprak Razgatlioglu was third in the session with a 1:41.719 on his Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1.
American Garrett Gerloff was 14th on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
Danilo Petrucci to replace Enea Bastianini at the French GP in Le Mans
Enea Bastianini will not participate in the French GP, which will be held in Le Mans next weekend. After suffering a right shoulder injury at the end of March during the Sprint race in Portimao, the Ducati Lenovo Team rider had taken to the track for free practice in Jerez last week but had decided to retire on Saturday due to the pain and lack of strength that prevented him from riding his Desmosedici GP to its fullest.
Back in Italy, Enea immediately resumed his rehabilitation. Still, after some medical consultations and in mutual agreement with his team, he preferred to take some more time to fully recover his fitness for the Italian GP, which will be held at Mugello in early June. With Michele Pirro busy with the second round of the Italian Superbike Championship (CIV) at Mugello on the same weekend as Le Mans, Ducati has decided to field Danilo Petrucci as Bagnaia’s teammate in France. The rider from Terni, who competed with the official Ducati MotoGP team in the 2019 and 2020 seasons, scored his second MotoGP victory in Le Mans.
Petrucci is engaged in the World Superbike Championship this year with the Panigale V4R of the Barni Spark Racing Team, and Ducati would like to thank owner Marco Barbabò, who, even though the team from Bergamo had already scheduled a test with Petrucci in Misano next Thursday and Friday, left Danilo free for Le Mans, showing great sensitivity and his attachment to the Ducati brand.
Enea Bastianini (#23, Ducati Lenovo Team)
“I am sorry that I will not be able to participate in the French GP in Le Mans, where I took a fantastic victory last year, but, unfortunately, I am still not fully recovered. After Le Mans, the World Championship will have a three-week stop during which I will do everything I can to recover in time for my home round at Mugello, scheduled for June.”
Danilo Petrucci
“I am thrilled to be back racing in MotoGP, although I am sorry that Enea has to miss another race. In Le Mans with the Desmosedici GP, I won my last race in MotoGP. It will be an honour to be able to try the World Champion bike and wear the suit that I won with in the past. It is an indescribable emotion, and I can’t wait to get back on track with the Ducati Lenovo Team. Thanks to Barni for letting me take this opportunity and to Ducati for thinking of me!”
In this new video series, REV’IT! dissects the mind, body, and soul of three top motorcycle racers. Alonso López, Augusto Fernández, and Danilo Petrucci share their personal stories of success.
The dictionary defines an athlete as someone who is skilled or trained in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical agility, stamina, or strength. Reaching the pinnacle of a particular discipline, however, requires something more: exceptional strength of mind, excellent body control, and an unrelenting drive from deep within the soul. In this three-part video series, REV’IT! assigned three of its athletes one element in which they excel and asked how they believe that element is reflected in themselves.
Augusto Fernández — Body
Once Augusto Fernández begins to build momentum, the 25-year-old Spaniard is tough to catch and even more difficult to beat. A realist with an intelligent and practical approach to racing, Fernández is the kind of rider who does not shy away from hard work; he certainly has come a long way since his father bought him his first bike when he was six years old. Following a non-traditional trajectory to MotoGP, Fernández used production-based competition to kickstart his career. Crowned European Junior Cup Champion in 2014, the Madrid-born Mallorcan found his groove in Moto2, ultimately claiming the middleweight world title in 2022 and achieving his childhood dream of reaching Grand Prix racing’s premier class.
In this new video series, REV’IT! dissects the mind, body, and soul of three top motorcycle racers. Alonso López, Augusto Fernández, and Danilo Petrucci share their personal stories of success.
The dictionary defines an athlete as someone who is skilled or trained in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical agility, stamina, or strength. Reaching the pinnacle of a particular discipline, however, requires something more: exceptional strength of mind, excellent body control, and an unrelenting drive from deep within the soul. In this three-part video series, REV’IT! assigned three of its athletes one element in which they excel and asked how they believe that element is reflected in themselves.
Alonso López — Mind
Proving you can’t keep a good rider down, Alonso López always bounces back from adversity even more determined. A hard hitter in the FIM Moto3 Junior World Championship, López adapted to the high-flying pace of the Moto3 World Championship only to be sidelined without a seat in 2021. Focusing on the CEV Moto2 European Championship, López podiumed at every race he entered to claim runner-up in the title chase, setting himself up for a glorious comeback on the world stage. Once again, however, the Spaniard started the 2022 season watching the racing from home. Stepping in as a substitute rider, López scored five podiums and two wins from the 14 Moto2 races he contested to finish eighth overall. A hard hitter, indeed.
Among the most important and widely studied properties in racing, no stone was left unturned during the development of the X-Fifteen’s aerodynamics. Designed and refined in SHOEI’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, the X-Fifteen boasts impressive improvements in all aerodynamic performance measurables, most notably a 6.1% reduction in drag and a 1.6% reduction in lift [as compared to its predecessor].
Thanks to SHOEI’s superior shell molding technology, the bottom third of the helmet (from the chin bar to the rear of the shell) has been strategically narrowed, and together with updated rear stabilizer and rear flap designs, the balance and stability of the all-new X-Fifteen is next level. Working in unison with the newly designed rear stabilizer system and concave of the shell surface, pronounced edges on the top left and right sides of the X-Fifteen further enhance aerodynamic performance by allowing wind to stream off the helmet with minimal resistance.
During the evolution of the X-Fifteen’s 150+ profile shape iterations, SHOEI engineers focused on aerodynamic optimization while in numerous riding and racing positions. Special emphasis was placed on the enhancement of high-speed stability [tested at speeds in excess of 218 mph] while reducing the negative forces that can inhibit a rider’s performance on race day. Mission accomplished.
The top view of Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet. Photo courtesy Shoei.
RACING VENTILATION
Overheating while riding and racing can have a direct impact on rider fatigue and safety, which is precisely why ventilation performance was a crucial feature while designing the X-Fifteen. Putting the helmet through its paces in SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel throughout development revealed optimal airflow in multiple riding positions, but none more important than the aerodynamic, tucked racing position.
Featuring seven (7) closable air intakes and six (6) exhaust outlets—all strategically shaped and located to maximize airflow and negative air pressure suction to the rear of the helmet—the X-Fifteen’s ventilation performance is on another level. Helping to pull cool, refreshing air through the helmet, the X-Fifteen’s EPS tunnels have been enlarged from 6mm to 10mm in depth, dramatically increasing cool-air volume and the rate of hot-air expulsion.
Additionally, significant improvements have been made to the innovative cheek pad cooling system by increasing the number of holes delivering refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area. Channels cut through the EPS liner and corresponding air holes located in the cheek pad foam work in harmony with exhaust outlets to clear warm, humid air from the rider’s face with even greater efficiency.
The top view of Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet in one of the two Marc Marquez Replica graphic schemes. Photo courtesy Shoei.
FIELD OF VISION
Taking a new angle on performance, the CWR-F2R shield system provides vast improvements in upper and lateral fields of vision. SHOEI engineers revised the eyeport trajectory to increase the upper field of view by 5mm without changing the position of the rider’s head inside the helmet. Though fractional by design, the resulting view through the X-Fifteen’s eyeport is significant while positioned in racing’s extreme lean angles.
Additionally, the DKS-304 PINLOCK EVO lens system is 10% larger than its predecessor and improves lateral field of vision thanks to relocated pins outside of the eyeport.
The centrally located face shield release mechanism on Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet. Photo courtesy Shoei.
CWR-F2R SHIELD & BASE PLATE SYSTEM
The all-new CWR-F2R shield system features improved visibility, functionality and performance over its predecessor, and like all SHOEI shield systems, protects against 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays. Thanks to SHOEI’s innovative 3D injection-molding process, the CWR-F2R shield also offers a distortion-free view throughout the entire X-Fifteen eyeport.
Highlighting a long list of updates, the CWR-F2R 2D “flat” outside surface combined with 3D technology inside offers an aggressive look with optimized visibility for a more natural view. Vortex Generators on the sides of the shield improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise, and an all-new center locking mechanism helps to evenly distribute shield forces across both spring-loaded base plates.
The X-Fifteen is equipped with an exclusive two-stage shield locking system [center locking mechanism plus racing shield lock], providing optimal protection against unexpected shield releases in the event of a fall. Additionally, a newly designed trigger lock mechanism, once activated, provides even more assurance by preventing the shield from detaching during an impact or crash. The base plate system has been completely redesigned to enable smoother shield openings and closures. Combined with the latest generation window beading that prevents wind and water intrusion when the shield is locked, the CWR-F2R shield and base plate system is the most advanced on the market today.
3D MAX-DRY CUSTOM INTERIOR SYSTEM II
The X-Fifteen is equipped with a fully removable, washable, adjustable, and replaceable 3D Max-Dry Custom Interior System II. SHOEI’s exclusive Max-Dry liner material absorbs and dissipates sweat and moisture twice as fast as traditional nylon interiors, and in combination with the X-Fifteen’s superior ventilation system, keeps racers and aggressive riders alike cool and dry during intense riding sessions. Additionally, the innovative cheek pad cooling system delivers refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area thanks to channels cut through the EPS liner and air holes strategically located in several areas of the foam.
The interior padding in Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet is removeable, washable, replaceable, and adjustable. Photo courtesy Shoei.
Fine-tuning your racing equipment is essential to improving performance, and the X-Fifteen’s independently adjustable 3D center pad components are no exception. Like its predecessor, each section of the center pad can be replaced with optional thicknesses to customize the fit based on head shape and performance demands. New to the X-Fifteen, however, each pocket-shaped pad has separate, removable layers that can be peeled away to further optimize the individual fit.
Similar to the X-Fourteen interior, the X-Fifteen’s cheek pad system utilizes a patented angle adjustment mechanism to change the position of the helmet by up to 4-degrees to increase the upper field of vision while tucked in extreme racing positions. In addition to innovative cooling properties, the surface area of the cheek pads has been enlarged by 16.5%, giving riders a more secure and comfortable fit, especially at high speeds.
EMERGENCY QUICK RELEASE SYSTEM (E.Q.R.S.)
The X-Fifteen is equipped with the SHOEI-exclusive Emergency Quick Release System that allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from an injured rider’s helmet. With the cheek pads removed, the helmet can be safely lifted from a rider’s head without creating unnecessary strain in the neck area.
Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet comes with cut-outs to accommodate speakers. Photo courtesy Shoei.
MULTI-PLY MATRIX AIM+ SHELL
Few characteristics of a motorcycle helmet are as critical as its first-layer of defense, which is precisely why the all-new X-Fifteen features the SHOEI-exclusive Multi-Ply Matrix AIM+ Shell construction. Combining a six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers, the X-Fifteen’s proprietary AIM+ shell provides optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity, and is available in four shell sizes to ensure a custom fit for heads between the sizes of XS-XXL. The X-Fifteen is both Snell M2020R and ECE22.06 certified.
MULTI-PIECE MULTI-DENSITY EPS LINER
The X-Fifteen’s Multi-Piece, Multi-Density EPS liner boasts optimized impact absorption by utilizing varying densities of foam in key areas around the rider’s head. In addition to impact performance, the precise placement of multi-density EPS liner material yields a more compact, lightweight design, further accentuating the X-Fifteen’s safety and comfort properties.
Contributing greatly to the X-Fifteen’s unrivaled ventilation performance, the multi-piece EPS liner features strategically-located tunnels that allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through the helmet. Enlarged from 6mm to 10mm deep [as compared to the X-Fourteen], the X-Fifteen’s superior ventilation characteristics have been further enhanced without compromising an ounce of safety.
Also new to the X-Fifteen, a small channel in the front chin bar area has been strategically designed to guide and receive hydration systems, including the all-new optional SHOEI Hydration Tube.
Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet is available in two different Marc Marquez Replicas. Photo courtesy Shoei.
HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES REVEALS EXCITING NEW LOOK FOR THE 2024 FS 450
LATEST EVOLUTION OF THE PREMIUM SUPERMOTO RACER DELIVERS UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE
Enhanced with a stunning new look for 2024, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ FS 450 continues to set the standard for supermoto racing machinery. Carefully refined and expertly crafted with competition-focused components to ensure outstanding performance, the FS 450 is a highly capable short circuit racer. The machine features a new high grip seat cover and white, grey, and yellow graphics for a truly distinctive appearance.
Powered by a proven 450cc SOHC 4-stroke engine, the characteristics of the FS 450 can be fine-tuned by taking advantage of the easy-to-use handlebar-mounted Map Select Switch. The activation of Launch Control, Traction Control, and the innovative Quickshifter, for precise upshifts, can all be controlled, even under hard acceleration.
The hydro-formed chromium molybdenum frame ensures the highest levels of rider feedback with a polyamide-reinforced aluminium subframe aiding handling and ensuring comfort. With its engine positioned inside the frame to enhance mass centralisation, and equipped with the latest WP suspension, the FS 450 delivers an exceptional on-track experience for riders of all abilities.
Assembled skilfully with quality, race-tested hardware including Alpina wheels, a Suter anti-hopping clutch, and high performance Brembo brakes, the FS 450 is built for racing and is unquestionably the most powerful, best handling, and most complete supermoto machine on the market today.
2024 Technical Highlights
New grey and yellow graphics create a distinctive look
New high-grip seat cover for improved control under hard acceleration
Ergonomic bodywork for unrestricted movement on the motorcycle
Hydro-formed chromium molybdenum frame designed to improve anti-squat behaviour
Proven SOHC engine provides class-leading performance and low weight
Quickshifter ensures smooth and precise upshifting
High-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system
Aluminium-polyamide hybrid subframe construction provides specifically calculated rigidity and advanced durability
WP XACT 48 mm front fork with AER technology offers progressive end-of-stroke damping
WP XACT rear shock features a CFD-optimised main piston and tool-free adjusters
Multifunctional Map Select Switch, which also activates the Quickshifter, Traction, and Launch Control
Premium-quality ProTaper handlebar
Electric starter powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery
A concise selection of high-quality Technical Accessories is now available from Husqvarna Motorcycles dealerships, which allows all riders to customise their FS 450. Each component is designed to enhance on-track performance, reduce weight, or add durability to this exceptional supermoto machine.
For enhanced rider safety and unrestricted performance, a premium collection of supermoto-specific Functional Apparel combines innovative technical features for improved comfort, protection, and style.
The 2024 FS 450 is now available worldwide from all authorised Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers. Availability may differ from country to country. For details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Motorcycles subsidiary or importer.
Pirelli Motorcycle Racing Director Giorgio Barbier (left) and WorldSBK Executive Director Gregorio Lavilla (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSBK and Pirelli extend partnership until 2026
Dorna WSBK Organization and Pirelli have announced the extension of their partnership for another three years. Pirelli will remain the Official Tyre Supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, up to and including the 2026 season.
This long-standing partnership, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has been a testament to the success of the collaboration between DWO and Pirelli. The two organisations have worked together closely to develop high-quality, reliable, and high-performance tyres that are essential to the safety and success of the riders.
WorldSBK provides a competitive and challenging environment for Pirelli to develop and innovate its tyres continually. As such, the Championship is a key tyre development platform in Pirelli’s motorcycle strategy and the extension of the partnership confirms Pirelli’s commitment to the Championship as a crucial part of its motorsports involvement.
DWO is delighted to continue its partnership with Pirelli, and both parties look forward to working together to further improve the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship. The renewed partnership will undoubtedly help to enhance the competitiveness and excitement of the Championship, providing riders, teams, and fans with a thrilling experience.
Aldo Nicotera, Senior Vice-President and Head of Moto and Cycling Pirelli:
“This year we are celebrating an important milestone: in fact, it has been 20 years that we have been alongside the FIM Superbike World Championship as sole supplier for all classes. A road, begun in 2004, which represented the first example of a single-tyre formula in the history of top motorsport competitions and which, years later, has proven to be a winning choice, later followed by other championships. Motorsport has historically been an integral part of Pirelli’s DNA and this renewal is in line with our corporate strategy which sees World Superbike as a key platform for the development of our motorcycle tyres, starting with racing and super sports tyres. We are happy to continue this adventure alongside Dorna, the teams and riders until 2026 whilst continuing to offer motorcyclists from all over the world tyres that contain the best of Superbike-derived technology”.
Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director for DWO
“Pirelli has proved time and again to be a perfect match for WorldSBK as our sole Official Tyre Supplier. Not only does our partnership ensure a great level of quality and performance to our teams and riders throughout the season on a wide variety of venues, but they also completely embraced the values and philosophy of the Championship by bringing to the race track the products they offer to motorcyclists. WorldSBK has evolved through numerous eras and phases since we started to work with Pirelli and the fact that we’ve been building on this mutually beneficial collaboration over the past 20 years is unprecedented. So, it’s with great enthusiasm that we’re looking towards the future of WorldSBK and Pirelli together as the Championship evolves and new challenges arise.”
Nicolo Bulega, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2, topped World Supersport Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona – Catalunya, in Spain.
The Italian rider lapped the 2.894-mile (4.657 km) circuit in 1:44.740, which was quicker than Dominique Aegerter’s 2022 Race Lap Record of 1:45.157.
0.747s advantage for Bulega after Friday, Tuuli and Sofuoglu second and third
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega was fastest on Friday as the Ducati rider was 0.747s quickest than Tuuli.
P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team| 1’44.740s
” It was a very good day for me. This morning not too much because I didn’t have the feeling, I had in Assen but then we putted our base setting and I felt much better. I was able to push from the beginning with the SC0 and then when I put the SCX I improved a lot my lap time. For sure we started with a package that I know here in Barcelona, so it was good. Because last year when we came here, we didn’t have any info, any settings. I’m happy because I improved my lap time from last year. I can’t explain why I am so much faster than the other today but it’s a nice sensation to be able to push when I want. The feeling is good, the race pace is good so I will try to do another good weekend.”
Niki Tuuli (66). Photo courtesy Dorna.
A 1’45.487s gave second place to Triumph’s Niki Tuuli, while Bahattin Sofuoglu was third for MV Agusta. This means that there were four different manufacturers in the top five.
Bahattin Sofuoglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSSP Friday Report
Race lap record pace was on display at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the FIM Supersport World Championship as Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) topped the timesheets on Friday at the Prosecco DOC Catalunya Round. Bulega’s best time was more than seven tenths clear of the rest of the field as he went under the existing race lap record, set in 2022, by four tenths of a second in Friday’s Free Practice 2 session.
Bulega posted a 1’44.740s to claim top spot in both FP2 and the combined classification at the end of Friday’s running as he finished 0.747s clear of his nearest rivals. He was the only rider to lap in the 1’44s bracket on his way to finishing first, with Finnish rider Niki Tuuli (Dynavolt Triumph) in second place. His best time, a 1’45.487s, came in FP2 but was still some seven tenths down on Bulega’s time. In third place was Bahattin Sofuoglu (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) who was one of just four riders who did not improve their time in the afternoon. His best time was a 1’45.582s and was set in Free Practice 1, where he topped the times. His day was disrupted by a crash in the morning but it was late in the session and he lost minimal running time.
Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing Team) took fourth spot in the combined classification despite a top-three finish in FP2, lapping 0.854s slower than pacesetter Bulega. Caricasulo was ahead of compatriot Stefano Manzi (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha) in fifth place after he set a best time of 1’45.646s in FP2 while Australian rider Oli Bayliss (D34G Racing) burst into the top six in the combined classification. His best time was a 1’45.749s to claim sixth spot overall on Friday.
WorldSSP action resumes on Saturday with the Tissot Superpole from 10:25 (Local Time), followed Race 1 at 15:15.
American WorldSBK racer Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Defending World Champion Alvaro Bautista, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, was quickest in World Superbike Free Practice Two Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain.
In spite of having 250 rpm less to work with, Bautista’s best lap time was a 1:41.486, which topped his teammate Michael Rinaldi’s 1:41.836.
Jonathan Rea, using an extra 250 rpm on his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR, was third-fastest in the session with a 1:42.015.
American Garrett Gerloff was fourth with a 1:42.235 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR. In combined times, however, Gerloff ranked 10th on Friday.
Ducati 1-2 on Day 1 of the Prosecco DOC Catalunya Round
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista leads teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi on Friday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The Championship leader was 0.147s quicker than Rinaldi.
“For sure, I think it has been very positive especially because we were focused on race pace. In the morning, I tried the new spec that Pirelli brought here on the front. I didn’t have really good feedback on the tyre, but the bike was working more or less like normal. We decided to use it for the race distance to see how it was at the end. It was quite consistent, but the feeling was not too good from the beginning. Also, on the rear with the SCX tyre, it was maybe not the best moment to use it, but we wanted to use it just to see how it was for the race distance. I felt a big drop this morning so, in the afternoon, we used the SC1 on the front; I like this tyre. Suddenly, I found a good feeling with the bike and the bike worked like it did in the test or the other rounds. In the rear, with the 800, we did 16 laps and it was better than the SCX in the morning. The grip was not very different, but I think the tyre life was a bit better, I could be more consistent with the lap times. I was able to do many mid-1’42s, which is a good pace especially because this afternoon the conditions were a bit difficult. With this heat, the grip is very low, and you have to be very precise.”
“I saw the lap times from the other riders and I think my teammate, Rinaldi, can fight for victory. We can’t forget Toprak and Jonathan. Maybe today they were not super fast in race pace but tomorrow and on Sunday they will be there. We have to pay attention to Aegerter. He had a really impressive pace and also Lecuona. They are two riders who can fight, at least, for a podium.”
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi finished second on Friday with a fastest time of 1’41.633s set in the morning session.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea concluded Friday’s running in third place only 0.166s behind Bautista. He was one of many riders unable to improve in the afternoon session.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu set the fourth fastest time on Friday with a 1’41.652s. The Yamaha rider set his fastest time in the morning session, as did his teammate Andrea Locatelli who completed Friday’s top six despite a crash in FP2.
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Local rider Iker Lecuona was fifth for Honda with a 1’42.068s. Teammate Xavi Vierge was eighth despite a crash in FP1.
WorldSBK Friday Report
The sun shone strongly at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the 2023 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship on Friday, with the field taking to the circuit with a track temperature approaching 50 degrees. Come the end of the day, it was Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) who was in a league of his own, with a strong lap time at the end of the session being the icing on top of a strong race run cake.
With an additional 20 degrees of track temperature, it was somewhat unsurprising to see the Ducatis so strong on Friday afternoon. Alvaro Bautista remains the rider to beat over the long distance however, with a strong race pace in the morning and in the afternoon, with a run of 14 laps achieved in the 1’42s in FP1, more than his rivals. In the afternoon, Bautista did a 16-lap run, all of which were in the low-to-mid 1’42s before going out and setting a 1’41.486 to set the outright best time of the day, which will certainly make his rivals sit up and look. Teammate Rinaldi was second at the end of the day but didn’t improve his time at the end. Fastest in the first session in the morning, Michael Ruben Rinaldi came out the blocks fighting from the start and that translated into the afternoon too, as he was once again one of the riders to beat. Jonathan Rea’s (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) afternoon wasn’t as strong as his morning session, with Rea outside of the top ten in 11th place for a lot of the session before ultimately finishing third. Due to everyone else struggling to better their opening time, Rea took third overall, but he’ll be fighting for the podium or the top five if race pace from the afternoon is anything to go by.
As for the blue corner, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) was third on the combined times but was inside the top five throughout FP2, as he enjoyed the heavy braking areas of Turn 1 and Turn 10. The Turk hasn’t won in Barcelona but will hope that he can turn that around this weekend. Teammate Andrea Locatelli’s afternoon saw him strong inside the top nine but he crashed at Turn 5. Losing the front, it was a typical Turn 5 tumble, but it was a costly error, as a new SC0 tyre needed to be tested and time is always of the essence. At the end of the day, Razgatlioglu was third and Locatelli remained sixth.
It was a strong opening day for Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) and Honda, as they always shine in Barcelona – whether it is testing or not. Lecuona’s pace was in the 1’42s, and a solid effort will hope to be rewarded throughout the remainder of the weekend. As for teammate Xavi Vierge, he crashed in FP1 at Turn 1 but remounted but he wasn’t quite there in the afternoon, down in 12th, one place behind teammate Iker Lecuona. Come the end of the day however, they were still fifth and eighth and that will be filling Leon Camier’s team with confidence going forwards.
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday with FP3 from 09:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
More, from a press release issued by GYTR GRT Yamaha:
AEGERTER AND GARDNER FOCUSING ON RACE PACE ON DAY 1 IN BARCELONA
Dominique Aegerter and Remy Gardner returned to action on May 5th at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, finishing 7th and 12th on combined times.
The GYTR GRT Yamaha pair enjoyed good weather conditions in the first Free Practice session. Aegerter and Gardner primarily focused on long-distance runs using the same tyres for the whole session, showing speed throughout the 45-minute practice. The Swiss rider placed himself 7th (1’42.084), with his Australian teammate 11th (1’42.649).
Later, in the hotter Free Practice 2, the #77 and the #87 kept trying to gain maximum potential for the race, with Gardner practicing once again with used tyres, using one set for the session. His teammate, Domi, also went for longer runs to be ready for the long-distance race. Aegerter still managed to put his name inside the Top 5 (1’42.305), while the Australian was 15th (1’43.202). Neither improved on their morning lap times.
“It hasn’t been a bad Friday. Our main focus was on longer runs to be as ready as possible for the long races. We know the last laps here will be crucial because we’ve seen it in the past, and honestly our race pace was solid. I hope we can make one more step forward and have a good qualifying session, as starting near the front would help us manage the races better.”
“It wasn’t the easiest day to be honest; we had a small issue in the early stages of FP2, and then when I went out again it was tough to manage the tyres. Anyway, we just focused on race pace today, and we’ll keep working on analysing the data we have as we know consumption will play a key role here.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
Rea Third Fastest On Day One In Catalunya
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes took part in the first day of track action at their KRT squad’s home WorldSBK round in Barcelona- Catalunya, with Rea finishing up third quickest and Lowes ninth overall.
Warm and dry weather was the backdrop to Friday’s opening action at the Montmelo circuit near Barcelona with the second free practice session in the afternoon proving to be hotter than the first. The track temperature almost reached 50°C in FP2.
Rea was to finish up on the ‘virtual’ overnight front row thanks to his 1’41.652 time from the morning session, which was held in relatively cool conditions.
Lowes worked on his race pace from the start and like his team-mate Rea he set his best single lap time in the morning session, when the track temperature only rose to 35°C.
Each rider’s technical staff will now combine the experiences and information from practice day one at the 4.657 long Montmelo circuit with the data they collected during a private test here a few weeks ago to come up with the best possible set-up to take on the first challenge of a 20-lap Race One on Saturday May 6.
Sunday May 7 will feature the ten-lap Tissot-Superpole race and then the final full distance Race Two, over 20 laps.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “We used something on the bike today to change the front geometry. It was a strange day for me because I had mixed feelings this morning. The temperature was lower and I was relatively fast but I didn’t have a really good feeling. It seemed like I was competitive, even with some laps in the tyres, as I had a similar drop to our main rivals. We pursued that new set-up into the afternoon but I didn’t feel good on the bike. The feeling to get to the apex at the end of the braking stage meant I had no confidence. The heat just amplified that problem. It was a bit frustrating today but we had to try something, so tomorrow we will try to improve on the base that we had at the test.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “We worked on our race distance set-up today, on used tyres, but clearly in these hot conditions we are struggling. We need to have a good chat with the guys in the team and try to make a plan of how we can improve for Saturday. Both our front and rear tyres are not lasting the distance and we are using the hardest solutions. So we have to think about some things for the first race tomorrow.”
Young Czech rider Oliver König (Orelac Racing Movisio Kawasaki) was 18th from 25 riders after one day of practice in Catalunya. Isaac Vinales (TPR by Vinales Racing Kawasaki) was 22nd and Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was 24th after the first two practice sessions.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Put to Work in Friday Free Practice
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli completed a productive opening day at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, at the fourth round of the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship today.
The Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK crew put their heads down and got to work over two 45-minute Free Practice sessions, in search of set-up and strategies to manage tyre life on the Calatan circuit’s long, demanding corners. Diligent work ethic trumped outright lap time once again, as both riders focused on long-run pace for the three points-paying races to take place this weekend.
The afternoon was punctuated only by a small low-side crash on entry into Turn 5 for Locatelli, who was able to recover his R1 WorldSBK to the pit box quickly to minimise time lost during the session. He finished the day sixth overall, with teammate Razgatlıoğlu also finishing a solid fourth.
Tomorrow starts bright and early in the Spanish sunshine with pit lane open for Free Practice 3 at 09:00 local time (CEST), followed by Superpole qualifying at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P4 – 1’41.719
“First I say that this morning we did not start really strong, but now I am feeling my bike is much better. Maybe also I am not really strong on this track, but I try my best – this track has many long corners, you know – not like my stop-go style! But I try to change my riding a little bit, just try to keep more speed in the corner, more flowing. I did a race simulation in FP2, it was not bad! We did good lap times for 17 laps and it looks better than last year, but we will see in the race – the race is always more difficult! I am just fighting for the podium, we will try to follow Bautista as close as possible – first is important qualifying, I need pole position again!”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli: P6 – 1’42.079
“A bit difficult today, especially in FP2 – the temperature on track was higher but the feeling on the bike was not so bad, more or less similar to FP1, but when I tried to do the long run I crashed in Turn 5, so unfortunately we lost a little bit of the opportunity to work a lot to understand the tyre for the race. But anyway, we just need to know what we want to do for tomorrow – which is to find a little bit more feeling, especially in the front and to try to stop the bike a bit better. We will see what we can do in FP3, and then we will wait to see what is possible in Race 1. For sure, it will not be easy with the track temperature, but we will try to be ready and fight for the podium!”
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK:
“There’s no avoiding the fact that Barcelona has always been a tough track for us to perform at our best level, but today, the team and our riders have responded really positively to the challenge – and we’ve had a solid start to the weekend. Our outright pace is not bad and this afternoon’s very near race distance long run with Toprak was a big improvement on where we were last year. Loka had a small crash at Turn 5 – it’s easy to make a mistake on the downhill, off-camber turn in to that particular corner – but the positives are that he was completely unharmed, and that we were able to fix the bike quickly enough to get him back out to finish the session at a decent level. A better start today than perhaps expected – well done to the whole group and the riders, we’ll keep pushing tomorrow and try to maximise the results.”
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC Honda:
Nothing to choose between Lecuona and Vierge at Barcelona home track
Team HRC riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge are out at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, their home track, for the fourth round of the 2023 Superbike World Championship. Separated by just 27 thousandths of a second in terms of lap time, both made a solid start for at their home track.
Despite having jumped straight back on the CBR1000RR-R after riding the HRC MotoGP bike just last weekend, Iker was immediately up among the frontrunners during Friday morning’s FP1, showing consistent pace and setting a number of fast laps. His best time, a 1’42.068, saw him place fifth at the end of this first phase. Team-mate Vierge also made good progress throughout the 45-minute session, a fastest time of 1’42.095 securing him eighth. This, despite the fact that an innocuous crash in the final minutes prevented him from further improving on this time.
The second session ran in sunny conditions much like FP1 but on much hotter asphalt (49°C). Focusing largely on their race pace on used tyres, both feel optimistic heading into the weekend. Thanks to their best times set during the morning’s session, Lecuona rounded out day one in fifth position in the combined standings, closely followed by Vierge in eighth place.
Tomorrow will see Team HRC return to the Barcelona track for Superpole and the first of the races making up this fourth championship round.
Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Iker Lecuona 7
P5
“I’m happy to be back here with my team and bike. We arrived having already done a lot of setup work during the recent test we had. To be honest, after spending the last weekend in MotoGP I was expecting to need a bit more time to regain that WorldSBK feeling and so I was surprised to feel comfortable and fast after just four or five laps. It was a very good session and we just weren’t able to find the feeling with a different tyre spec, basically because it’s the first time we’re trying it after having missed the chance to use it during testing due to my crash. In the afternoon I spoke with my crew chief and basically changed the plan entirely, because I thought we should focus on working on race distance. It was something I had been thinking all day and we’re very happy with the outcome of the afternoon’s session because there was much less of a drop compared to last year, despite the fact that the temperature was higher and that I always lapped alone. So I’m very happy and we will now analyse the data and see if there is any fine tuning we can do to further reduce the tyre drop. I want to thank the team for their hard work and tomorrow we go again!”
Xavi Vierge (97). Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Xavi Vierge 97
P8
“It has been a good day for us, and I had good feeling right from the start despite a small crash in FP1. It was insignificant, in fact it was good to find the limit early, if anything. Thanks to the team because they repaired the bike in time for FP2 and that session also went well. We completed two long runs to try and understand our pace in such hot conditions and the feeling was not so bad. As ever, we need to improve a bit with the new tyres, but the race pace is there so I’m happy with how day one has gone. Now we’ll see if we can make another little step forward tomorrow. As always, our first target for Saturday is to do as well as we can in qualifying.”
More, from a press release issued by team Go-Eleven:
TOUGH START FOR GO ELEVEN, UNEXPECTED GAP AT THE END OF DAY 1- MONTMELO’!
Philip Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Team Go-Eleven.
Really tough Friday on the Barcelona track! Unexpected difficulties since the morning, a lack of grip that creates more than a few headaches for the Ducati Go Eleven, without finding, so far, an important solution. Certainly, on the Catalunya circuit, we expected a different day, both in terms of gap and feeling. But it’s only Friday, and there’s still plenty of time to improve and rebuild a good performance.
FP1 took place in almost perfect conditions, 20 degrees in the air, warm sun that welcomed all the WorldSBK protagonists. Philipp entered on the rear SC0, trying to gain confidence and find a good set-up to work on over the weekend. Right from the start he complained about a big lack of grip, which generated excessive rear sliding; Montmelò is a very particular track from this point of view, every year it throws the riders into a crisis both in terms of race management and set-up. Already in the morning it was possible to understand that the big difference will be made at the end of the race, by managing the drop of the tyres well. At the end of the morning session, a new rear tyre solution was tested, which did not provide a huge difference in terms of performance.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 M. Rinaldi 1.41.633
P 2 J. Rea + 0.019
P 3 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.088
…
P 15 P. Oettl + 1.725
For FP 2, the Team tried to make some changes to the balance of the bike, working on the rear shock, swingarm and heights. In the first stint he completed the tyres used in FP 1, then in the final stages the time attack meant an improvement in performance, but without being able to make an impact. Laptime is still too high compared to our reference group, it will be essential to work well in the evening to find some new solution to be evaluated tomorrow. Even more with the high temperatures, the second half of the race will prove be critical. Still to understand the best compound over the long distance. To move up the rankings, the only way is to work, to analyze well the data we have collected, remaining focused and determined.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.41.486
P 2 M. Rinaldi + 0.350
P 3 J. Rea + 0.529
…
P 16 P. Oettl + 1.948
Philipp Oettl (Rider): “Today it’s a difficult day for us, I think the others have a small advantage due to the recent tests here, at Montmelò, but we have room for improvement. We keep working, to achieve a good solution for tomorrow, the drop of the tyre will be really important tomorrow and on Sunday. I think we made a small step forward in the FP 2, but now we have to do another one in the right direction!”
More, from a press release issued by PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team:
PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda team prepares for the Barcelona races
The PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda team is back in action at a hot and sunny Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain, the stage for this weekend’s fourth Superbike World Championship round.
During the day’s first free practice session, riders Hafizh Syahrin, who turned 29 today, and Eric Granado made gradual progress, the pair now feeling increasingly confident aboard their CBR1000RR-R machines. Keen to do well at his home round, Granado (who lives in Barcelona) made a good step in the final minutes of the session, a fastest time of 1’43.423 moving him up into sixteenth place. Making changes to the setup throughout the course of the first practice, Syahrin set a best of 1’43.576 to close a little over a tenth from his team-mate in eighteenth place.
Back out for free practice 2 a little later in the day and on hotter asphalt, both riders continued to work hard, focusing largely on the tyres considering that tyre wear is a particular issue at this track, and even more so in high temperatures. Although neither was able to improve on their earlier FP1 references, due largely to the higher track temperatures, both Granado (17th) and Syahrin (19th) feel prepared for the weekend’s races, the first of which will play out tomorrow afternoon after the Superpole qualifying session.
Eric Granado (51). Photo courtesy PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team.
Eric Granado P17
“We’ve worked to prepare for the races, testing the different tyre options that we have available because Barcelona is a very unique track in terms of tyre wear. it’s also very hot this weekend so we’re focusing a lot on this aspect in order to have a good setting for the races. I’m pleased so far and tomorrow we have another practice in which to continue to work so that we have a good bike for race 1. The track is 50°C this afternoon, hotter than we expected, and races in conditions like this are always tough, not just physically but also on the tyres so it’s really important to prepare in this area so that we can get to the end of the race in decent shape.”
Hafizh Syahrin (35). Photo courtesy PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team
Hafizh Syahrin P19
“We’ve made a good start, but I feel like there are still some points where we can improve and find another few tenths. With the feeling I have right now, I believe we can be in the points zone this weekend. I’ve been quite consistent despite the hot conditions, so if we can take another small step technically in tomorrow’s FP3 and in qualifying, then hopefully we can run a good race. The conditions are unexpectedly hot, but it is the same for everyone of course, so we’ll do our best. It’s my birthday today so it’s nice to be racing here on my birthday weekend.”
Bahattin Sofuoglu, the nephew of multi-time World Champion Kenan Sofuoglu, topped World Supersport Free Practice One Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his MV Agusta Reparto Corse F3 RR 800cc triple, Sofuoglu did a best lap time of 1:45.582.
Michael Rinaldi, riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, led a tight World Superbike Free Practice One Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain.
In spite of having 250 rpm less to work with, Rinaldi’s best lap time was a 1:41.633, which topped the 1:41.652 Jonathan Rea did using an extra 250 rpm on his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.
Toprak Razgatlioglu was third in the session with a 1:41.719 on his Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1.
American Garrett Gerloff was 14th on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
Danilo Petrucci (9), as seen in 2020. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Danilo Petrucci to replace Enea Bastianini at the French GP in Le Mans
Enea Bastianini will not participate in the French GP, which will be held in Le Mans next weekend. After suffering a right shoulder injury at the end of March during the Sprint race in Portimao, the Ducati Lenovo Team rider had taken to the track for free practice in Jerez last week but had decided to retire on Saturday due to the pain and lack of strength that prevented him from riding his Desmosedici GP to its fullest.
Back in Italy, Enea immediately resumed his rehabilitation. Still, after some medical consultations and in mutual agreement with his team, he preferred to take some more time to fully recover his fitness for the Italian GP, which will be held at Mugello in early June. With Michele Pirro busy with the second round of the Italian Superbike Championship (CIV) at Mugello on the same weekend as Le Mans, Ducati has decided to field Danilo Petrucci as Bagnaia’s teammate in France. The rider from Terni, who competed with the official Ducati MotoGP team in the 2019 and 2020 seasons, scored his second MotoGP victory in Le Mans.
Petrucci is engaged in the World Superbike Championship this year with the Panigale V4R of the Barni Spark Racing Team, and Ducati would like to thank owner Marco Barbabò, who, even though the team from Bergamo had already scheduled a test with Petrucci in Misano next Thursday and Friday, left Danilo free for Le Mans, showing great sensitivity and his attachment to the Ducati brand.
Enea Bastianini (#23, Ducati Lenovo Team)
“I am sorry that I will not be able to participate in the French GP in Le Mans, where I took a fantastic victory last year, but, unfortunately, I am still not fully recovered. After Le Mans, the World Championship will have a three-week stop during which I will do everything I can to recover in time for my home round at Mugello, scheduled for June.”
Danilo Petrucci
“I am thrilled to be back racing in MotoGP, although I am sorry that Enea has to miss another race. In Le Mans with the Desmosedici GP, I won my last race in MotoGP. It will be an honour to be able to try the World Champion bike and wear the suit that I won with in the past. It is an indescribable emotion, and I can’t wait to get back on track with the Ducati Lenovo Team. Thanks to Barni for letting me take this opportunity and to Ducati for thinking of me!”
In this new video series, REV’IT! dissects the mind, body, and soul of three top motorcycle racers. Alonso López, Augusto Fernández, and Danilo Petrucci share their personal stories of success.
The dictionary defines an athlete as someone who is skilled or trained in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical agility, stamina, or strength. Reaching the pinnacle of a particular discipline, however, requires something more: exceptional strength of mind, excellent body control, and an unrelenting drive from deep within the soul. In this three-part video series, REV’IT! assigned three of its athletes one element in which they excel and asked how they believe that element is reflected in themselves.
Augusto Fernández — Body
Once Augusto Fernández begins to build momentum, the 25-year-old Spaniard is tough to catch and even more difficult to beat. A realist with an intelligent and practical approach to racing, Fernández is the kind of rider who does not shy away from hard work; he certainly has come a long way since his father bought him his first bike when he was six years old. Following a non-traditional trajectory to MotoGP, Fernández used production-based competition to kickstart his career. Crowned European Junior Cup Champion in 2014, the Madrid-born Mallorcan found his groove in Moto2, ultimately claiming the middleweight world title in 2022 and achieving his childhood dream of reaching Grand Prix racing’s premier class.
In this new video series, REV’IT! dissects the mind, body, and soul of three top motorcycle racers. Alonso López, Augusto Fernández, and Danilo Petrucci share their personal stories of success.
The dictionary defines an athlete as someone who is skilled or trained in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical agility, stamina, or strength. Reaching the pinnacle of a particular discipline, however, requires something more: exceptional strength of mind, excellent body control, and an unrelenting drive from deep within the soul. In this three-part video series, REV’IT! assigned three of its athletes one element in which they excel and asked how they believe that element is reflected in themselves.
Alonso López — Mind
Proving you can’t keep a good rider down, Alonso López always bounces back from adversity even more determined. A hard hitter in the FIM Moto3 Junior World Championship, López adapted to the high-flying pace of the Moto3 World Championship only to be sidelined without a seat in 2021. Focusing on the CEV Moto2 European Championship, López podiumed at every race he entered to claim runner-up in the title chase, setting himself up for a glorious comeback on the world stage. Once again, however, the Spaniard started the 2022 season watching the racing from home. Stepping in as a substitute rider, López scored five podiums and two wins from the 14 Moto2 races he contested to finish eighth overall. A hard hitter, indeed.
Among the most important and widely studied properties in racing, no stone was left unturned during the development of the X-Fifteen’s aerodynamics. Designed and refined in SHOEI’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, the X-Fifteen boasts impressive improvements in all aerodynamic performance measurables, most notably a 6.1% reduction in drag and a 1.6% reduction in lift [as compared to its predecessor].
Thanks to SHOEI’s superior shell molding technology, the bottom third of the helmet (from the chin bar to the rear of the shell) has been strategically narrowed, and together with updated rear stabilizer and rear flap designs, the balance and stability of the all-new X-Fifteen is next level. Working in unison with the newly designed rear stabilizer system and concave of the shell surface, pronounced edges on the top left and right sides of the X-Fifteen further enhance aerodynamic performance by allowing wind to stream off the helmet with minimal resistance.
During the evolution of the X-Fifteen’s 150+ profile shape iterations, SHOEI engineers focused on aerodynamic optimization while in numerous riding and racing positions. Special emphasis was placed on the enhancement of high-speed stability [tested at speeds in excess of 218 mph] while reducing the negative forces that can inhibit a rider’s performance on race day. Mission accomplished.
The top view of Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet. Photo courtesy Shoei.
RACING VENTILATION
Overheating while riding and racing can have a direct impact on rider fatigue and safety, which is precisely why ventilation performance was a crucial feature while designing the X-Fifteen. Putting the helmet through its paces in SHOEI’s in-house wind tunnel throughout development revealed optimal airflow in multiple riding positions, but none more important than the aerodynamic, tucked racing position.
Featuring seven (7) closable air intakes and six (6) exhaust outlets—all strategically shaped and located to maximize airflow and negative air pressure suction to the rear of the helmet—the X-Fifteen’s ventilation performance is on another level. Helping to pull cool, refreshing air through the helmet, the X-Fifteen’s EPS tunnels have been enlarged from 6mm to 10mm in depth, dramatically increasing cool-air volume and the rate of hot-air expulsion.
Additionally, significant improvements have been made to the innovative cheek pad cooling system by increasing the number of holes delivering refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area. Channels cut through the EPS liner and corresponding air holes located in the cheek pad foam work in harmony with exhaust outlets to clear warm, humid air from the rider’s face with even greater efficiency.
The top view of Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet in one of the two Marc Marquez Replica graphic schemes. Photo courtesy Shoei.
FIELD OF VISION
Taking a new angle on performance, the CWR-F2R shield system provides vast improvements in upper and lateral fields of vision. SHOEI engineers revised the eyeport trajectory to increase the upper field of view by 5mm without changing the position of the rider’s head inside the helmet. Though fractional by design, the resulting view through the X-Fifteen’s eyeport is significant while positioned in racing’s extreme lean angles.
Additionally, the DKS-304 PINLOCK EVO lens system is 10% larger than its predecessor and improves lateral field of vision thanks to relocated pins outside of the eyeport.
The centrally located face shield release mechanism on Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet. Photo courtesy Shoei.
CWR-F2R SHIELD & BASE PLATE SYSTEM
The all-new CWR-F2R shield system features improved visibility, functionality and performance over its predecessor, and like all SHOEI shield systems, protects against 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays. Thanks to SHOEI’s innovative 3D injection-molding process, the CWR-F2R shield also offers a distortion-free view throughout the entire X-Fifteen eyeport.
Highlighting a long list of updates, the CWR-F2R 2D “flat” outside surface combined with 3D technology inside offers an aggressive look with optimized visibility for a more natural view. Vortex Generators on the sides of the shield improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise, and an all-new center locking mechanism helps to evenly distribute shield forces across both spring-loaded base plates.
The X-Fifteen is equipped with an exclusive two-stage shield locking system [center locking mechanism plus racing shield lock], providing optimal protection against unexpected shield releases in the event of a fall. Additionally, a newly designed trigger lock mechanism, once activated, provides even more assurance by preventing the shield from detaching during an impact or crash. The base plate system has been completely redesigned to enable smoother shield openings and closures. Combined with the latest generation window beading that prevents wind and water intrusion when the shield is locked, the CWR-F2R shield and base plate system is the most advanced on the market today.
3D MAX-DRY CUSTOM INTERIOR SYSTEM II
The X-Fifteen is equipped with a fully removable, washable, adjustable, and replaceable 3D Max-Dry Custom Interior System II. SHOEI’s exclusive Max-Dry liner material absorbs and dissipates sweat and moisture twice as fast as traditional nylon interiors, and in combination with the X-Fifteen’s superior ventilation system, keeps racers and aggressive riders alike cool and dry during intense riding sessions. Additionally, the innovative cheek pad cooling system delivers refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area thanks to channels cut through the EPS liner and air holes strategically located in several areas of the foam.
The interior padding in Shoei’s all-new X-Fifteen full-face helmet is removeable, washable, replaceable, and adjustable. Photo courtesy Shoei.
Fine-tuning your racing equipment is essential to improving performance, and the X-Fifteen’s independently adjustable 3D center pad components are no exception. Like its predecessor, each section of the center pad can be replaced with optional thicknesses to customize the fit based on head shape and performance demands. New to the X-Fifteen, however, each pocket-shaped pad has separate, removable layers that can be peeled away to further optimize the individual fit.
Similar to the X-Fourteen interior, the X-Fifteen’s cheek pad system utilizes a patented angle adjustment mechanism to change the position of the helmet by up to 4-degrees to increase the upper field of vision while tucked in extreme racing positions. In addition to innovative cooling properties, the surface area of the cheek pads has been enlarged by 16.5%, giving riders a more secure and comfortable fit, especially at high speeds.
EMERGENCY QUICK RELEASE SYSTEM (E.Q.R.S.)
The X-Fifteen is equipped with the SHOEI-exclusive Emergency Quick Release System that allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from an injured rider’s helmet. With the cheek pads removed, the helmet can be safely lifted from a rider’s head without creating unnecessary strain in the neck area.
Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet comes with cut-outs to accommodate speakers. Photo courtesy Shoei.
MULTI-PLY MATRIX AIM+ SHELL
Few characteristics of a motorcycle helmet are as critical as its first-layer of defense, which is precisely why the all-new X-Fifteen features the SHOEI-exclusive Multi-Ply Matrix AIM+ Shell construction. Combining a six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers, the X-Fifteen’s proprietary AIM+ shell provides optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity, and is available in four shell sizes to ensure a custom fit for heads between the sizes of XS-XXL. The X-Fifteen is both Snell M2020R and ECE22.06 certified.
MULTI-PIECE MULTI-DENSITY EPS LINER
The X-Fifteen’s Multi-Piece, Multi-Density EPS liner boasts optimized impact absorption by utilizing varying densities of foam in key areas around the rider’s head. In addition to impact performance, the precise placement of multi-density EPS liner material yields a more compact, lightweight design, further accentuating the X-Fifteen’s safety and comfort properties.
Contributing greatly to the X-Fifteen’s unrivaled ventilation performance, the multi-piece EPS liner features strategically-located tunnels that allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through the helmet. Enlarged from 6mm to 10mm deep [as compared to the X-Fourteen], the X-Fifteen’s superior ventilation characteristics have been further enhanced without compromising an ounce of safety.
Also new to the X-Fifteen, a small channel in the front chin bar area has been strategically designed to guide and receive hydration systems, including the all-new optional SHOEI Hydration Tube.
Shoei’s new X-Fifteen helmet is available in two different Marc Marquez Replicas. Photo courtesy Shoei.
A 2024-model Husqvarna FS 450. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.
HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES REVEALS EXCITING NEW LOOK FOR THE 2024 FS 450
LATEST EVOLUTION OF THE PREMIUM SUPERMOTO RACER DELIVERS UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE
Enhanced with a stunning new look for 2024, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ FS 450 continues to set the standard for supermoto racing machinery. Carefully refined and expertly crafted with competition-focused components to ensure outstanding performance, the FS 450 is a highly capable short circuit racer. The machine features a new high grip seat cover and white, grey, and yellow graphics for a truly distinctive appearance.
Powered by a proven 450cc SOHC 4-stroke engine, the characteristics of the FS 450 can be fine-tuned by taking advantage of the easy-to-use handlebar-mounted Map Select Switch. The activation of Launch Control, Traction Control, and the innovative Quickshifter, for precise upshifts, can all be controlled, even under hard acceleration.
The hydro-formed chromium molybdenum frame ensures the highest levels of rider feedback with a polyamide-reinforced aluminium subframe aiding handling and ensuring comfort. With its engine positioned inside the frame to enhance mass centralisation, and equipped with the latest WP suspension, the FS 450 delivers an exceptional on-track experience for riders of all abilities.
Assembled skilfully with quality, race-tested hardware including Alpina wheels, a Suter anti-hopping clutch, and high performance Brembo brakes, the FS 450 is built for racing and is unquestionably the most powerful, best handling, and most complete supermoto machine on the market today.
2024 Technical Highlights
New grey and yellow graphics create a distinctive look
New high-grip seat cover for improved control under hard acceleration
Ergonomic bodywork for unrestricted movement on the motorcycle
Hydro-formed chromium molybdenum frame designed to improve anti-squat behaviour
Proven SOHC engine provides class-leading performance and low weight
Quickshifter ensures smooth and precise upshifting
High-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system
Aluminium-polyamide hybrid subframe construction provides specifically calculated rigidity and advanced durability
WP XACT 48 mm front fork with AER technology offers progressive end-of-stroke damping
WP XACT rear shock features a CFD-optimised main piston and tool-free adjusters
Multifunctional Map Select Switch, which also activates the Quickshifter, Traction, and Launch Control
Premium-quality ProTaper handlebar
Electric starter powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery
A concise selection of high-quality Technical Accessories is now available from Husqvarna Motorcycles dealerships, which allows all riders to customise their FS 450. Each component is designed to enhance on-track performance, reduce weight, or add durability to this exceptional supermoto machine.
For enhanced rider safety and unrestricted performance, a premium collection of supermoto-specific Functional Apparel combines innovative technical features for improved comfort, protection, and style.
The 2024 FS 450 is now available worldwide from all authorised Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers. Availability may differ from country to country. For details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Motorcycles subsidiary or importer.
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We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
