MotoGP: Bagnaia Best In FP2 On Day One Of Misano Test (Updated)

David Swarts

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September 6, 2022

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MotoGP: Bagnaia Best In FP2 On Day One Of Misano Test (Updated)

Session_for_MI1_MotoGP_FP2

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Ducati beat Aprilia to the top, Yamaha make steps forward at Misano

Bagnaia and Marini edge out Aleix Espargaro on Day 1 of the Misano Test, Quartararo reports key progress for Yamaha

Day 1 of the Official MotoGP™ Misano Test is done and dusted and topping the timesheets is San Marino GP winner Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) with a 1:31.292. But Tuesday – and the two-day test in general – is more than just looking at the timesheets, because Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) made his long-awaited return to action and Yamaha rolled out a 2023 engine.

HONDA

Undoubtedly, the biggest news of the day was the return of Marc Marquez. After completing 39 laps ahead of the lunch break, the eight-time World Champion and his team decided to sit out the rest of the afternoon in order to be ready for Day 2 – a great sign that his comeback was a success. The other great sign is that it didn’t take long for the number 93 to start testing new parts for HRC, as the Japanese giants continue to focus on getting their 2023 package right.

Marc Marquez, who finished 1.1s off the quickest time, was riding a black Repsol Honda with a new air intake, aero and downwash ducts on the side fairing, similar to what we’ve seen Ducati using for the past couple of seasons. The downwash ducts are believed to create some ground effect when the bike is on its side, giving more stability and more grip. It now looks like Honda are playing with this idea. In addition, Honda have another set of new side fairings just like the Aprilias that have the large, bulged-out side fairing that seems aimed at creating some ground effect similar to the way a floor does in F1.

One very notable thing to point out was HRC Test Rider Stefan Bradl testing a Kalex-built aluminium swingarm, as shown below. It’s a huge change for Honda as they have used their own in-house carbon swingarm for several years now.

Stefan Bradl (6) was seen testing a new Kalex-made swingarm. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Furthermore, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) was running a brand-new, never seen air intake on one of his bikes. It’s a little wider and not quite as tall as the standard air intake, and differs from the one Marc Marquez was using too. As expected, there was plenty going on in the HRC ranks.

YAMAHA

As we heard ahead of the test, the Iwata factory have a new engine to try in Misano. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) – who completed 80 laps – used it on Tuesday and confirmed that it’s a positive step, which is good news for the Iwata factory. The title chase leader was sixth quickest on the opening day, just under three tenths away from main rival Bagnaia.

A new chassis was also being put through its paces, while one of Franco Morbidelli’s (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) YZR-M1s was spotted with a new air intake. It’s possible that could be part of the 2023 engine package. Moreover, new wings were being tested, which seemed to be larger than those they have on the 2022 bike at the moment.

Franco Morbidelli tested a new fairing for Yamaha. Photo courtesy Dorna.

APRILIA

Aprilia Racing Test Rider Lorenzo Savadori has two bikes to test on Day 1, while it’s believed the Noale factory were testing some new wings. And talking of wings, Aprilia were back running the rear wing that we’ve seen appear a couple of times.

Aleix Espargaro (41) in action at Misano. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Both Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) and teammate Maverick Viñales took turns topping the times in the afternoon. Eventually, the Spaniards occupied P3 and P5 respectively at the end of play. Espargaro crashed unhurt at the tight, tricky Turn 14.

DUCATI

As strange as it sounds, there wasn’t too much to shout about in terms of updated parts in the Bologna stables on Tuesday. Visibly, anyway. Bagnaia did hint over the weekend that he didn’t think he would be testing too many new things, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t testing anything – far from it.

One thing that was noticed however was the sidepod wing extending down slightly further than the standard one Ducati have been using for some time.

Six Ducatis finished inside the top 10 with Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) second fastest, 0.181s off VR46 Academy colleague Bagnaia, while Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) – who crashed unhurt at Turn 15 – was the third quickest Desmosedici rider in P4.

KTM

Three-time World Champion and MotoGP™ Legend Dani Pedrosa was back on testing duties for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and the Spaniard was seen trying an updated seat and tail unit.

Dani Pedrosa (26) tested a new seat and tail section for KTM. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the quickest RC16 rider on track, the South African finished P11, 0.624s down on Bagnaia’s pace. After an impressive ride last time out, Raul Fernandez (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) was just 0.059s off Miguel Oliveira’s (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) 1:32.336, but the Spaniard’s day was slightly blighted by a crash at Turn 14.

SUZUKI

With Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) sidelined through injury, 2022 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup winner Dominique Aegerter was given the opportunity to throw his leg over the GSX-RR. The Swiss rider ended the day just 2.6s away from Pecco’s pace; a very impressive performance. On the other side of the box, Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) was trying some cooling parts for the rear of the bike. The Spaniard finished P12 on the timesheets, 0.6s off top spot.

Make sure you keep a keen eye on motogp.com and our social media channels throughout the day on Wednesday, because we can expect it to be another busy day on track. Simon Crafar will be live at 13:00 local time (GMT+2) for the latest updates, so be sure to tune in!

More, from a press release issued by Repsol Honda:

Marc Marquez rides the RC213V again

An encouraging first day for the Repsol Honda Team at the Misano Test as Marc Marquez returned to a MotoGP machine 100 days after his operation and Pol Espargaro showed his and the bike’s potential.

The Adriatic Coast produced another beautiful day as action resumed at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. It was a significant day as Marc Marquez made his return to the Repsol Honda Team for the first time since the Italian GP in late May. Starting just after 09:30 Local Time, the eight-time World Champion completed a brief first run to initially assess his right arm. With all signs being positive, he and the Repsol Honda Team switched into work mode and began their testing programme.

Completing a total of 39 laps before stopping for the day during the lunch break, the #93 ended his first day back on the bike with a best time of 1’32.395 – good enough for 11th on Sunday’s San Marino GP grid. Although lap times were not the focus, Marquez was sstill able to end the day 1.1s behind the fastest rider.

It was an equally positive day for Pol Espargaro who set a best lap of 1’31.707, some 1.1 seconds faster than his time from Q1 on Saturday. Limiting his running due to lingering pain in his right wrist from Sunday’s crash, the #44 was still able to complete 50 laps and stopped just before 16:30 Local Time. Espargaro and his team ran through a number of setting options and improve his feeling aboard the Repsol Honda. Even with the limited laps, Espargaro was satisfied with the day.

Testing resumes tomorrow, Wednesday 07, at 09:00 Local Time. The Repsol Honda Team are aiming for another productive day before preparing for the Aragon GP and the flyaway races.

Marc Marquez

18TH 1’32.395

“After 100 days away, wow – these bikes are fast! It’s the same as when you arrive at the first test after winter, it takes you some time to adjust. It was really good to be back, to ride this bike again and to be with my team. Step by step I felt faster and more comfortable, but I need to work more to gain the strength for longer runs. I was able to try some items for Honda after a few runs because I was feeling good. Honda is working a lot, it’s clear. Our target today wasn’t times, it was to do 40 laps and understand our situation. We decided to stop early to try and ride tomorrow. Tonight, I will do a lot of work with physio, ice and stretching to help with the recovery of the arm.”

Pol Espargaro

NINTH 1’31.707

“On Monday I woke up with a lot of swelling in my rest, but with a lot of ice I have been able to ride today. It’s not as many laps as I would normally do because I am aiming to also ride tomorrow. Even with less laps we have been able to find out some good things, we worked a lot on finding the differences between Qatar and now. It looks like we have found something that could help us get our speed back a bit. The real test for this will be when we arrive in Aragon, but for now it’s good to be on the bike and making laps.”

More, from a press release issued by Mooney VR46 Racing Team:

MARINI AND BEZZECCHI AMONG THE FASTEST AT MISANO TEST

Both riders of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team improve their best lap time of the weekend finishing second and 7th in the combined standings

Misano Adriatico (Italy), September 6th 2022 – Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi are protagonists at the official MotoGP test in Misano Adriatico, the last of the season and on the eve of the Aragon GP for the 15th race of the 2022. Both very fast on the Ducati Desmosedici GP, respectively closed in P2 and P7 in the combined standings, thus improving the performances obtained during the GP just ended.

Strengthened by the fourth place in the race and working on the setting to face the end of the season as best he can, Luca scores a best lap time of 1.31.473 and is only two tenths of a second behind the fastest of the day (1.31.292, Bagnaia) after completing 45 laps.

Positive feelings, 38 laps and steps forward on the set-up also for Marco who set a best of 1.31.591, fastest rookie on the track with a gap of three tenths from the top of the combined.

Luca Marini

A positive test, we haven’t tried so much, just some ideas that came to us during the race GP and that we didn’t have time to test. From the start this morning I had a better feeling, I was fast and consistent. The pace, with a used rear tire, is also very good and I am satisfied. The track conditions were completely different from the race: in the morning I felt at ease, while in the afternoon with a lot of rubber it was difficult to give real and objective feedback. We take full advantage of this step forward at Aragon.

Marco Bezzecchi

A beautiful day: we tested several new settings that I would have liked to try already during the GP, but in free practices it is always difficult to find time. In any case, we made a good step from the GP, the pace was better today and even faster. I fixed those corners where I was struggling and a good lap time came out at the end. I wasn’t 100% in braking, we didn’t understand how to fix the problem and then also sector four in the two fast corners before the straight. We go to Aragon to do well.
Pablo Nieto, Team Manager

An interesting and at the same time demanding day. We did a lot of laps, we focused on the set-up and riding and we are satisfied with what we have done. The lap times are very good, especially with used tires, Luca and Marco have made a further step compared to the race GP and we are ready to tackle the Aragon track, one of the most complicated on the calendar.

More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki ECSTAR:

FINAL TEST OF THE SEASON PROVES POSITIVE FOR TEAM SUZUKI ECSTAR

Alex Rins: 12th – 1’31.936 – +0.644

Dominique Aegerter: 27th – 1’33.907 – +2.615

Team Suzuki Ecstar completed the Misano Test on Tuesday with positive steps found for Alex Rins and Dominique Aegerter enjoying a new experience trying the GSX-RR.

The focus and main priority for Rins was comparing some new hardware, as well as a bit of suspension testing and confirm fairing options, working to find improvements ahead of the final races of the season. He put in a total of 53 laps around the Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli on and reported a positive outcome from the work done by himself and the team.

For Aegerter, the thrilling experience left him impressed with the speed and power of the GSX-RR, but it also proved interesting for the Suzuki squad, who could get yet another perspective on the feel and handling of their bike.

The team have now completed their items list and will not participate in tomorrow’s test.

Alex Rins:

“Today went smoothly and I found it helpful. I only rode in the morning, and we managed to try all the items that we wanted to, and we now feel clearer about the things that could be useful to us in the next races. It also clarified for us that we had made good choices earlier in the season. We felt it was better not to ride in the afternoon because we finished the programme and there was no need to take any unnecessary ‘risk’. I’m looking ahead to Aragon now, and I’m excited to ride there in front of a home crowd.”

Dominique Aegerter:

“It’s difficult to put into words; it’s just been an amazing experience. Thanks again to Suzuki for letting me ride their bike – and also my World Supersport team, Ten Kate, who have allowed me to take this opportunity. On my first lap I was so impressed with the power and grip, it was incredible. Then, when I got to the straight for the first time, I was screaming inside my helmet! I improved with each exit and it was great to work with these guys and to experience all the things the GSX-RR has to offer.”

Livio Suppo – Team Manager:

“It was a positive day; Alex found some things that could help him in the remaining races and we feel pretty positive. Of course, our goal is to get strong results in the next rounds. A good target would be fifth place in the championship, and that would be a nice way to stay motivated. Dominique did a very good job, only a few laps but reasonable times! Hopefully we’ll see Joan back with us in Aragon, and we should have an update about that in the next days.”

Ken Kawauchi – Technical Manager:

“We tried a couple of things in terms of hardware, originally planned for use in 2023, but obviously we brought it forward. We also worked on a different spec. of the rear device and some suspension options, and finally an aerodynamics comparison. We finished everything successfully today, so we will not test tomorrow. Thank you to Alex and Dominique for their hard work – for a first time on a MotoGP bike, Domi’s lap times were pretty good. We’re happy with this last test of the year.”

More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP MAKE POWERFUL PROGRESS ON MISANO TEST DAY 1

Misano Adriatico (Italy), 6th September 2022

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP‘s Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli returned to action at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli today, keen to boost their overall performance. They finished the first day of the two-day IRTA Misano MotoGP Official Test in 6th and 14th place respectively in the combined timesheets.

6th FABIO QUARTARARO 1‘31.588 (FP1) / 43+37 LAPS

14th FRANCO MORBIDELLI 1‘32.048 (FP2) / 44+44 LAPS

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team returned to the scene of last weekend‘s San Marino GP, the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, for the first day of the two-day 2022 Official Misano MotoGP Test. Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli used today‘s two four-hour sessions to compare testing times. They secured 6th and 14th place respectively.

Quartararo was motivated to get to work this morning. Though he is in the middle of the fight for the 2022 championship title, his mind is already on his 2023 campaign. He had three bikes at his disposal: one with a new chassis, one with the prototype 2023 engine, and one 2022 race bike for comparison. He completed 43 laps in FP1 and 37 laps in FP2. His fastest time of the day was set in the morning. That 1‘31.588s lap put him in sixth place in the Day 1 Misano Test rankings, 0.296s from first.

Morbidelli had been disappointed to see his otherwise solid San Marino GP weekend cut short after only two laps of racing. However, focusing on the positive, the Italian was keen to spend the available track time of the Misano Test to further build on his improved feeling with the YZR-M1 as well as trying other testing items, including the prototype 2023 engine. He rode 44 laps in the morning and 44 laps in afternoon, setting a 1‘32.048s in FP2 to finish the test in 14th place, 0.756s from the top.

FABIO QUARTARARO

Today we had three bikes: one was the standard bike, one with a new chassis, and one with the first prototype 2023 engine. I had the chance to test all three bikes today. The new chassis was good, we will bring it to Aragon in any case, but I don’t know if we will try it there too. The first steps with the 2023 bike were good. It works pretty well in the areas of acceleration and top speed, so I’m happy. Considering that this is just the first step, I’m looking forward to the next engine improvement. Those were the two things I tested today: chassis and engine. I feel a bit better in the ’top area‘. This is a good step. It’s the first time that we really feel that we made an improvement. Yamaha are confident that they can improve a bit more, so hopefully they will do it.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Today was a smooth day. We managed to complete the programme. It was quite full, but we were able to go over every item with good precision, good runs, and good information. Also, the pace was quite steady to try stuff, so it was an interesting day. The new engine feels good. It’s very nice. It keeps the nice and mellow behaviour of the Yamaha ’on the bottom‘, in the higher gears and high rpms it develops quite a bit of speed.

Bagger Racing League: Eslick Wins Bagger GP Races At Milwaukee Mile

David Swarts

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September 6, 2022

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Bagger Racing League: Eslick Wins Bagger GP Races At Milwaukee Mile

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

Battle of the Baggers Milwaukee Results

MotoGP: Aleix Espargaro Quickest In FP1 On Day One Of Misano Test

David Swarts

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September 6, 2022

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MotoGP: Aleix Espargaro Quickest In FP1 On Day One Of Misano Test

2022_MISANO_MotoGP____OFFICIAL_TEST__classification_1

AHRMA: Race Results From Gingerman Raceway

David Swarts

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September 6, 2022

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AHRMA: Race Results From Gingerman Raceway

Editorial Note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all pages of the results.

RRW 2022 Gingerman Raceway - Weekend Results

N2/WERA Endurance: Army Of Darkness Wins At Road Atlanta

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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N2/WERA Endurance: Army Of Darkness Wins At Road Atlanta

Army Of Darkness Extends WERA/N2 Championship Points Lead with Win At Road Atlanta.

After a tumultuous 4-hour endurance race that was shortened by red flags, a controversial rain delay, and another red flag, AOD emerged from the chaos in the lead taking their first win of the season and extending the championship points lead with one race remaining in the season.

AOD’s usual rider line up of Ben Walters, Chris Peris and Cody Wyman was augmented by the addition of veteran superbike racer Geoff May.

AOD Lead Mechanic Melissa Berkoff observed, “It is always a pleasure to get to work with an analytical rider like Geoff. He comes to the bike with a wealth of experiences and he had some valuable feedback that not only helped with the race package for this weekend but helped the team with some new ideas.”

The race began with legendary champion Josh Hayes leading Hayden Gillim with AOD stalking in third. A series of red flags and unconventional weather delays jumbled the running order to see AOD jumping into first place with perfectly executed pit strategy and fast consistent riding by Peris and May. With May steadily extending the lead it looked like the race was heading to a final shootout between TSR and AOD but a rider bizarrely lying down next to the track ended the race early leaving AOD to extend their championship points lead.

Geoff May offered, “The bike was really good right out of the trailer and we worked to try to adapt the engine mapping and suspension set up from the last race at long, sweepy PittRace to the point-and-shoot Road Atlanta. I was familiar with the strengths and characteristics of the Pirelli slicks so we were really able to set the bike up to match the tires’ strengths. I, like many racers in the US, have watched AOD win championship after championship and it was a real pleasure to get to work with such a group of dedicated enthusiasts. I also really enjoyed getting to talk over riding strategies with Chris and Cody.”

With AOD having raced in the US since 1993 there are bound to be a lot of alumni racers. At Road Atlanta, all the top heavyweight teams had a AOD alum rider with Taylor Knapp at TSR and Josh Hayes at BHM.

AOD is sponsored by: Army of Darkness, Pirelli, Yamaha Champions Riding School, Yamaha, Industry13, Chicken Hawk, Wood Craft, Hindle, Supersprox, Thermosman, N2, WERA, Roadracing World.

Yamaha Motor Europe Offering Race-Prepared YZF-R1s For Sale

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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Yamaha Motor Europe Offering Race-Prepared YZF-R1s For Sale

GYTR: Our Racing DNA

With the same winning DNA the company had since its foundation and the same knowledge applied to any of the R-Series machines, Yamaha engineers have brought industry-leading technology to every performance accessory they’ve designed for over 40 years, and today those components are known as Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing (GYTR®) parts.

GYTR Racing parts are designed in tandem with your Yamaha for unmatched integration, using state-of-the-art materials like carbon fibre and aircraft-grade aluminium. Once the design is complete, GYTR items undergo the highest level of performance and durability analysis. This makes GYTR accessories the only Yamaha-backed, expertly developed performance products – made specifically for your Yamaha, by Yamaha.

A 2023 GYT-R Yamaha YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe. — A 2023 GYTR Yamaha YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

From the early days, GYTR technology has helped to propel Yamaha Racing Teams to many podiums and successes. Today the connection between motorsport activities development and customers has become even stronger, thanks to a reinforcement strategy to secure Yamaha Racing technology for each customer that is wanting to get the best out of their R-Series machine.

GYTR PRO SHOPS: from Racing to Customers

Winning World Championship titles is not the only ultimate goal. Yamaha is customer-centric, meaning that the brand always aims to offer customers the best service and experience. From that statement, in 2021 Yamaha created the GYTR PRO SHOPS concept: the first and only place that anyone from professional racers to track-day riders can go to for all of their racing needs. It’s where they can connect with racing experts and technicians, get their hands on high-specification components, and have their bikes tuned and customised to the highest level.

There are 17 GYTR PRO SHOPS today across Europe, aiming to expand to 25 within the coming months, and they are all connected to Racing programmes and delivering tailor made solutions for customers’ R1, R6, R7 and R3 bikes. From December 2022, those GYTR PRO SHOPS will be the only place to get the new 2023 R1 GYTR.

2023 R1 GYTR concept

The Yamaha R1 is a proven race bike, winning championships and races at the pinnacle of production bike racing, WorldSBK and national series around the world. Its unique, responsive CP4 engine offers linear torque with an excellent feel, while its distinctive chassis provides unrivalled handling, further enhanced by the KYB 43mm front forks. The IMU electronics package, ride-by-wire throttle, Brake Control and Engine Brake Management further amplifies the smooth riding experience.

The 43mm KYB front forks and Brembo front brake calipers of a 2023 GYT-R Yamaha YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe. — The 43mm KYB front forks and Brembo front brake calipers of a 2023 GYTR Yamaha YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

Like the R6 GYTR, the new 2023 R1 GYTR is made for racing. Designed for customers who are looking for performance and quality, the R1 GYTR is prepared specifically for track usage (not homologated for road usage). Built to be faster and more precise than ever, the R1 GYTR is the ultimate canvas to tailor your own superbike machine. Designed to offer an efficient package to track-day riders and racers, it comes only with necessary parts for the track and equipped with over 25 carefully selected GYTR parts and an Akrapovic muffler and link-pipe system.

Further benefits for riders include an improved power output and rideability, making it the perfect race bike for all levels of ability, with the performance refined across the rev range. The wide variety of options to adjust the ECU makes it easier to ride at your limit, boasting optimised gearing and agility thanks to a range of lightweight parts. In line with FIM Stock 1000 regulations, the R1 GYTR offers improved braking and aerodynamics with the ideal riding position to get the most from your experience. Its fully keyless and comes with a rear stand for greater convenience.

The 2023 GYT-R Yamaha YZF-R1 comes with a 520 chain-and-sprockets kit, shark fin, swingarm stand receivers, a rear swingarm stand, and more. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe. — The 2023 GYTR Yamaha YZF-R1 comes with a 520 chain-and-sprockets kit, shark fin, swingarm stand receivers, a rear swingarm stand, and more. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

R1 GYTR Technical Highlights

ENGINE

• Akrapovic Race muffler and mid-pipe system

• AIS plug set

• Engine cover set

ELECTRONICS

• GYTR ECU

• Wiring harness

• PC interface cable

• GYTR ABS Emulator

• GYTR On/Off Switch

DRIVE SYSTEM

• 15/42T 520 sprockets

• GYTR R-Series 520 racing chain

CHASSIS

• BS R11 tires

• GYTR Racing Fuel Cap

• GYTR Stainless Steel Brake Line Set

• Calipers with GYTR steel piston kit

• Brembo Z04 brake pads

• Race handlebars

• Steering stoppers

• Shark Fin Rear Sprocket Guard

• Billet Front Brake Lever Guard

• Race Rear Set with reverse shifting option

• Rear stand hooks

• R-Series Racing Rear Stand

BODYWORK

• Complete Race Cowling Kit in primer white

• Racing screen

• GYTR Race seat

The combination of factory modifications, GYTR parts and GYTR PRO SHOP know-how is making the R1 GYTR faster and more fine-tuned than ever. The Yamaha experience doesn’t stop when a customer purchases their bike. GYTR PRO SHOP can offer much more: extra parts, tailor made settings (suspensions, engine, braking, etc.), tips for racing and track days.

For riders who always want more, Yamaha is releasing to the public a very special new racing components range: the GYTR PRO line.

The 2023 GYT-R Yamaha YZF-R1 comes with rearsets that allow for a reversed shifting pattern. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe. — The 2023 GYTR Yamaha YZF-R1 comes with rearsets that allow for a reversed shifting pattern. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.

THE GYTR PRO line up: Closer than ever before to the R1 WorldSBK

After the historical Triple Crown in 2021, four Yamaha Racing teams are competing in the FIM Superbike World Championship with the Yamaha R1: the team Toprak Razgatlıoğlu took the world title with – Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK – as well as GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team, GIL Motorsport Yamaha WorldSBK Team and Motoxracing Yamaha WorldSBK Team. All bikes are equipped with GYTR parts to increase the R1’s performance, and components developed by Yamaha Racing engineers specifically for those machines racing at the highest level. Today, Yamaha offer those components, in limited quantities, to all Yamaha racers in GYTR PRO SHOPS.

So customers will be able to build an R1 with all the same parts as the R1 WorldSBK, using the new Yamaha GYTR PRO line up. Yamaha first gave a taste of this special parts line up with the R1 GYTR PRO VR46, offered to Valentino Rossi in 2021 using a combination of parts from GYTR and GYTR PRO future catalogues, and some premium components from Öhlins and Brembo.

There have been 400 parts developed for the total scope of the GYTR PRO line up, with targeted availability through the GYTR PRO SHOPS starting from April 2023.

Some of the key components of the GYTR PRO line up are:

• GYTR PRO Swingarm

• GYTR PRO large capacity and low gravity fuel tank

• GTTR PRO Carbon rear subframe

• GYTR PRO Triple clamp

• GYTR PRO Carbon cowling set

• GYTR Pro screen

• GYTR PRO Dashboard

• GYTR PRO Dash support

• GYTR PRO Handlebars

• GYTR PRO Handle bar switches

• GYTR PRO Marelli electronics (customised)

• GYTR PRO Airducts for brake calipers

• GYTR PRO Brake lines

• GYTR PRO Brembo wheel adaptors (front and rear) to fit in the Öhlins FGR400 front forks and the inverted swingarm

• GYTR PRO Clutch

• GYTR PRO Side steering damper with bracket and clamp

• GYTR PRO MB radiator

• GYTR PRO Akrapovic system

• GYTR PRO Brake lever protector

With such an exciting parts list, Yamaha could not resist demonstrating the know-how of Yamaha GYTR PRO SHOPS by building a few R1 GYTR PRO kitted bikes mirroring the R1 WorldSBK machine. A bike that customers can have built for themselves at their GYTR PRO SHOP.

The complete list of the full GYTR PRO line up and their price will be announced by the end of the year.

MotoGP: Planning Underway To Race In Saudi Arabia

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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MotoGP: Planning Underway To Race In Saudi Arabia

Memorandum of Understanding signed between Dorna Sports and Saudi Motorsport Company to host MotoGP™ in Saudi Arabia

MoU outlines parties’ shared intention to bring world’s leading two-wheeled Championship to the Kingdom

Monday, 05 September 2022

Dorna Sports and Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC) have confirmed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining their shared intention to bring the world’s premier motorcycle racing series to the Kingdom.

The signing was conducted yesterday at the San Marino Grand Prix by HRH Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company and by Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna.

The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship is watched by more than 800 million people, broadcasting live to more than 200 countries around the world. The addition of Saudi Arabia to the MotoGP™ calendar on an annual basis will see the sport expanding further into the Middle East, with Qatar currently hosting the only round in the region.

The partnership initiative between SMC and Dorna will also see the establishment of a new talent development program for young Saudi riders, designed to increase awareness of and accessibility to the sport in the Kingdom. This Road to MotoGP™ Program will provide young racing talent in Saudi Arabia with pathway opportunities to compete at the highest levels of the sport, with a clear aim of developing Saudi MotoGP™ champions of the future. This aligns with Dorna’s ongoing commitment to young rider development all over the world, using its platforms and championships to launch new riders’ careers and develop pathways to racing in MotoGP™.

The proposed addition of MotoGP™ continues to showcase the Kingdom as the new home for the best international motorsports events [in the Middle East] and further complements SMC’s growing events portfolio as it looks to expand its two-wheel offerings. MotoGP™ in Saudi Arabia will be staged on a newly constructed, multi-purpose FIM and FIA homologated circuit.

Plans to bring MotoGP™ to Saudi Arabia follow the successful hosting of other major global motorsports series in the Kingdom over the past few years, including the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (since 2021), the Formula E Diriyah ePrix (since 2018), the world-renowned Dakar Rally (since 2020) and the revolutionary Extreme E series (since 2021).

HRH Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al-Faisal: “We are excited to confirm the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Dorna today which clearly outlines our shared goal of bringing MotoGP™ to Saudi Arabia. It makes perfect sense to add the world’s greatest motorcycle racing series to our growing list of world-class racing events. We look forward to working with Dorna to deliver on our shared commitment to bring the pinnacle of two-wheeled racing to Saudi Arabia and to continue to provide more opportunities and initiatives to enrich the lives of all our residents.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “As the leading global championship for two-wheel circuit racing, we are thrilled at this opportunity for MotoGP™ to expand its reach within the Middle East by adding an annual Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia. The region is a key market for motorsport and the demand in the Kingdom for events of this kind is growing with research showing that 80% of Saudi fans wanting to see more in their country. In the past few years, Saudi Arabia has shown its ability to stage major global motorsports events to the highest standards. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding codifies our shared intention to explore this opportunity further. We are confident that we will find an exciting and welcoming new home in the Kingdom and we look forward to further collaboration with the Saudi Motorsport Company to deliver on this joint ambition together.”

About SMC

SMC is the dedicated commercial entity established to bring the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s motorsport events under a single umbrella and is the first body in Saudi Arabia dedicated to commercializing motorsport at a national level.

SMC acts as the local promoter for KSA’s growing motorsports events portfolio which currently includes the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Formula E Diriyah ePrix, the world-renowned Dakar Rally as well as an annual round of the ground-breaking Extreme E series.

These recurring major motorsports events are delivering directly against the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 with each committed to long-term deals that have helped Saudi Arabia to develop an unrivalled portfolio that is not replicated anywhere else in the world.

MotoGP: Aegerter Will Ride Suzuki At Misano Test

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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MotoGP: Aegerter Will Ride Suzuki At Misano Test

DOMINIQUE AEGERTER TO RIDE THE SUZUKI GSX-RR IN MISANO TEST

Suzuki Motor Corporation is happy to announce that Dominique Aegerter will be given the opportunity to ride the factory GSX-RR for a few runs on Tuesday September 6th at the official test to be held at the Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli. The Swiss rider will be riding the Suzuki MotoGP machine as a celebration of his recent victory of the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup and will be supported by the crew usually serving Joan Mir, due to his absence with injury.

31-year-old Aegerter has enjoyed a successful career across the two-wheeled world, running four respectable seasons in the Moto3 class, and 11 in Moto2. He then switched to World Supersport where he won the title in 2021 and currently sits at the head of the standings. Alongside this, he’s also been competing in the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup since its inauguration in 2020, and he has won two championship crowns there including one in Misano just days ago. In addition, he has competed in endurance races and finished on the podium twice at the Suzuka 8 Hours, once with a GSX-R1000.

Dominique Aegerter:

“This is big news for me and, for sure, a big opportunity – a dream to ride in the Suzuki Factory Team and test the bike. I’m super happy about it, and I want to say thank you to everyone who has made this happen. I also want to say thanks to my team, Ten Kate, in Supersport who have allowed me to take this chance. Riding a Factory MotoGP machine is something I’ve forever wanted to try, so I can’t wait to jump on the bike tomorrow and enjoy the opportunity.”

Shinichi Sahara:

“Tomorrow we will have a special guest in the garage; Dominique Aegerter. Following his victory in the 2022 MotoE World Championship, he will ride the GSX-RR. Rather than a proper testing plan, this is just an opportunity for him to ride our bike. Having some fun on the MotoGP bike is not only a good way for him to show that he can be fast, but also, we can enjoy hearing a different rider’s point of view.”

Product Test Ride: A Motorcycle Racer’s e-MTB Adventure

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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Product Test Ride: A Motorcycle Racer’s e-MTB Adventure

By Anne Roberts

It was some Saturday close to Valentine’s Day in 2019. I had, what I thought to be, the greatest Valentine’s gift EVER for my then-boyfriend. I had special-ordered a small, heart-shaped, variety box of assorted animal jerkies from around the world and was anxiously awaiting the chance to give it to him. It was a great exchange. He loved it! After breakfast, he headed out into the garage for a bit. I assumed he was working on his old Chevy Nova, but then the front door opened and he walked in with a brand-new, full-suspension mountain bike and a smile. “This is for you. Try it. I hope you have some fun on it.”

I glanced back at my simple little box of jerky on the counter, embarrassingly laughed to myself a little, and walked over to check out my new ride. This was one of those days in life that I’ll never forget because it marked a turning of the page for me when I had been feeling a bit lost. I finally had come across a much-needed sporting outlet that sparked my interest after retiring from more than a decade of motorcycle racing.

A Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo by Anne Roberts.

A few years prior, all at approximately the same time, I made some life changes to allow myself to slow down, stop, smell the roses, and chase some of my new dreams. My teens and 20s were very busy and hard-working years as a young entrepreneur. I had finally finished my Bachelor’s degree that I had been chipping away at for seven years with the little time I had between my other ventures. During that same time, I made the decision to retire from racing at a professional level. I had some people near to me sustain life-altering injuries and decided that I needed to count my blessings and close that chapter. I was so immensely proud of my accomplishments and tenacity in my decade of racing that I was extremely comfortable with this decision, which I had debated internally for quite some time. Even a few years afterwards, I still felt like I had not filled that void and was looking for a new hobby that suited me.

At my core, I’m the type of person who tremendously appreciates the rewarding feeling of a long day of intense manual labor and also the effort and suffering of pushing my body to the limits with a hard workout or endurance activity. My personal philosophy is that wellness and happiness comes from living a simplistic lifestyle, close to nature, unattached to an excessive amount of material possessions. My biggest passion has always been spending time outside and moving my body, as we were intended to do since birth. As I started to ride this mountain bike on the local trails, my mind, body, and spirit became more fulfilled, harmonious, and more satisfied than ever before and my performance in other areas of life started to improve.

Anne Roberts, a former road racer and an experienced mountain bike rider, found a lot to like about the Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo by Lee Fields.

Fast-forward to 2021 when I had gained substantial skills and fitness on my gifted, entry-level mountain bike. That same boyfriend bought himself a Giant Trance, with every component and suspension upgrade possible. I took one ride on it, and it instantly became OUR mountain bike. As a typical powersports enthusiast, when I choose to own a product, I like to have the best of what’s available. This seemed to be it. I was fascinated with how well this new bicycle was built and how nicely it handled the terrain in the Southeast where we live. My area of riding focus was cross country endurance riding, meaning, I liked to ride anywhere from 2-5 hours at a time at about 70% effort. I liked this style because it allowed me to spend a considerable amount of time with myself in solitude, thinking about life and what direction I was headed both personally and professionally, soak up some sunshine, immerse myself in nature, and it had an acceptable risk level for me.

A Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Liv.

I had planned to purchase one just like it for myself, as I needed a smaller frame, but parts shortages and astronomical prices have kept me riding that same bicycle to this day, even though it’s a little big for me! I even got the bug to test out my new skills around other riders and entered my first three-hour endurance race in January of 2022. I proudly took second spot in the Sport Class in Chainbuster’s most popular “Gobbler” event, held at Georgia International Horse Park, home of the 1996 Olympic mountain biking trails. I have to thank my close friend and nearby neighbor, Scott Russell who gave me the push to enter, as he’s someone who has helped and mentored me in my racing (motorcycle and bicycle) and training over the years. I got the chance to mountain bike with him in Alabama after the Barber Vintage Fest a few months prior to this race and I learned so much, inevitably leading me to go at a quicker pace, while riding with substantially less effort and more control. Not only did I get to go to school watching Russell, I had Michael Barnes at home teaching me about this new dominant rear-brake style of riding and helping me make small suspension tweaks and tire pressure changes to accommodate what I wanted the bike to do.

Thanks to my motorcycle racing and industry connections and my work for Roadracing World, I was asked if I wanted to do a test review on a loaned Giant e-MTB (a.k.a. a mountain bike with an electric-motor assist system) and write a report after riding and returning the bike. I hadn’t ever ridden an e-MTB but said yes because I felt qualified and was confident in my skills and feedback as a rider. I knew this would be really interesting to our readers since, according to Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology’s most recent 2022 Reader Survey, which I feel is highly representative of the powersports demographic as a whole, 65.4% of the magazine’s audience rides bicycles either as a recreational activity or to train for racing/riding motorcycles.

A closeup of the adjustable suspension on a Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Liv. — A closeup of the adjustable rear suspension on a Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Liv.

The e-MTB I ordered is made by Liv, a sister company to Giant Bicycles, crafted for, by, and with women. This may sound a bit harsh, but at first, I was skeptical about a product “made for girls.” My past experience with products made for women who ride–whether that be clothing, gear, etc.–had often been disappointing. I am a performance enthusiast. I’m talented in everything I put my mind to. I appreciate the highest quality standards for my level of performance and activity. But my contacts at Giant suggested that the best bike for me would be a Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 model.

Anne Roberts with a Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Lee Fields.

I soon got a call that the loaner bike had been shipped from Giant headquarters in California to Roswell Bicycles in Roswell, Georgia, about an hour from my home, and would be waiting for me to pick it up! This shop is one of the best-known dealers and service centers in the Southeast, and when I went to pick it up I got a full consultation and learned about the bike and its charging system. Next came a custom set-up to make sure all the ergonomics and positioning were exactly to my liking, and the suspension was adjusted for my body weight and the type of terrain I’d be riding on.

Liv Bicycles are built by Giant, and I was impressed when the bike was fitted to me. The company builds bikes from the ground up with input and data from fast, professional women riders and racers. I appreciated the comfortable saddle (with dropper post!), shorter reach, and a handlebar width that felt like home. As an added bonus, I was able to leave my personal Giant Trance with the experts in their Roswell Bicycles Service Department to replace some bearings and give it a needed tune-up.

The view from behind the bars of a Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike. Photo by Anne Roberts.

When I picked the test e-MTB up I also asked about gear. Typically, the trails I ride in Georgia (Blankets Creek, Charleston Park, Georgia International Horse Park, Hard Labor Creek, Yellow River Park, Big Creek, Sope Creek, Fort Yargo, etc.) are smooth and flowing terrain with light to medium technical obstacles. None of this calls for or requires full, hard armor-style pads. Like other riders in the area, I am usually perfectly comfortable wearing standard gear such as padded cycling shorts, a light jersey, cloth gloves, my Adidas FreeRider Pro flat shoes with hard toe box, and my 6D trail helmet. But at the ripe old age of 33, having ridden on two wheels for more than two decades, I know that with a bit of increased speed comes a bit of an elevated risk. For this e-MTB venture, and with guidance from Roswell Bicycles, I bought some sleeve-style elbow pads and some sleeve-style knee pads, just in case of any little tip-overs in the dirt. Although I never needed to put them to use, they were surprisingly comfortable and gave me a feeling of security. I’ve used 6D helmets for quite a few years, and when I started mountain biking, staffers Bob and Josh have always ensured that I am in the highest standard trail helmet. The company’s new ATB-2T with omni-directional suspension that I use has the highest safety rating of 5-stars from Virginia Tech and is e-bike rated for higher impact.

I transport my bicycles with a tailgate pad. Normally, lifting my 23-pound personal bike up and over the tailgate of my Ford F-150 from the ground is no issue. I had to make the loading process of the aluminum-framed, battery-powered, Liv Intrigue X E+1 a multi-step procedure, lifting the back wheel up first and then the front, due to the weight (approximately 52 pounds) and size. Maybe I need to work on my overhead press in the gym a bit more!

The 53-pound Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 electric mountain bike can be more challenging for some to load into vehicles. Photo by Anne Roberts.

Throughout the next few weeks, I had a lot of fun exploring the wide variety of trails in North and Central Georgia. The Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 is an extremely well-balanced machine, without any significant weight bias to the front or rear. One of the things I most appreciate about this Liv Intrigue (and my personal Giant Trance 29er) is the amount of trail it has. I’ve ridden a few other brands of bicycles and these seem to have just a hair more trail, which creates a very confidence-inspiring amount of stability on descents and over rough surfaces. It’s very forgiving of little mistakes with the front end and looks to naturally correct itself when it gets out of shape.

Surprisingly, one of the things I enjoy the most is the added weight of the e-MTB. Carrying this extra weight around (nearly double that of my personal bike) really settles the chassis down over what used to be a bumpy ride and it also allows me to carry a surprising amount of corner speed. The bicycle feels like it is Velcro-ed to the ground. It is incredible! Also contributing to this “Velcro” feeling are the Maxxis tires. The 29-inch, tubeless wheels are outfitted with 2.60-inch wide Maxxis Assegai front and Maxxis Dissector rear tires. They’re both wide enough to offer a lot of control and aggressively treaded for maximum grip. And the disc brakes bite hard when I need them to, but are very easy to modulate, allowing me to put the bike on trajectories I’m happy with at most any time.

I’d never ridden on Fox suspension before. The Liv Intrigue X E+1 offers e-bike rated Fox Float 36 Performance Elite forks with a very nice 150mm of travel capable of handling almost any terrain. The (also e-bike rated) shock is a Fox Float X Performance with 140mm of rear wheel travel on Giant’s proprietary Maestro floating-pivot suspension system. In addition, the frame has a flip chip for adjustable frame geometry. I was really impressed with how well it soaks up the small stuff at speed, but also the precision with which it handles and navigates pronounced obstacles, especially while climbing.

A SyncDrive Pro, powered by Yamaha, 80nm motor propels the bike. A small pod on the left handlebar let me choose from one of five power levels (on the fly) and it has an added walk-assist feature in case the rider gets stuck and needs a push. But this is not a dirt bike with a throttle. It requires actual work, but takes substantially less effort to ride than a regular bicycle. I only got help when I was actively pedaling, only when a pedal has a load on it. Shifting gears took me a few minutes to get used to because it was easy for me to be a little bit flippant about what gear I was in since I was getting assistance. As I clicked off miles, I developed my own style and was quickly shifting like a champ. Level One gave me a little assistance. Level Five absolutely blew my mind. At a few points in one of my rides, in the most powerful setting, my GPS read 23 mph through the woods. I could get it to easily loft the front wheel while climbing under power and even spin the tire a few times! Tons of fun, but I quickly backed it down a few notches, because I didn’t want to have any up close and personal encounters with stationary objects! I preferred to ride in Level Two or Level Three, which gave me enough power to have long-range fun, but still gave me a great workout. The motor is super smooth and quietly hummed along underneath me, making the bike sound a little bit like a small space ship. The future is here.

I was also impressed that the battery outlasted me! The EnergyPaK Smart Integrated 625 battery charges to 80% in 2.5 hours. Depending on what power level is selected, rider weight, headwinds, amount of climbing, tire pressure, terrain, and outdoor temperature, the bike is able to get between 28 miles and 110 miles range on a full charge, which equals hours of fun.

I really love the battery assistance, because it makes it possible for me to explore places and trails I would have never even attempted before. Climbing feels like I have a tailwind at all times or like a hand is gently pushing on my seat.

I had a lot of questions about the bike when I picked it up. One of the things I was most worried about was what would happen if the bike got wet. I was told I could do most things as I normally would, including riding in the rain, splashing through puddles, and most importantly, washing the bike. But the unit is water-resistant, not water-proof, so it can’t be submerged and it’s not recommended to use a high-powered pressure washer to clean it, as it could force water into the electrical components and cause pre-mature wear and corrosion. I use the “less is more” approach and lightly hose the bike off, directing water away from all things electrical, mostly just wiping the unit down, drying it off, and spraying it with some Maxima SC1 (a high-gloss clear-coat protective spray) to prevent dirt from caking and to give it a nice shine–plus, I can appreciate the product’s cherry smell!

One thing I find difficult is chain maintenance. On these bikes, the chain does not move backwards when the pedals spin backwards, so to clean the chain, I had to either set the bike on a stand or have a buddy pick up the back end so I could clean and lube the chain before every ride.

All in all, I have thoroughly enjoyed riding the Liv Intrigue X E+ 1. There are only a few things I might change due to personal preference, things I’ve grown accustomed to that make my ride more enjoyable. First, I’d like to upgrade the pedals. I enjoy riding flats. I do not like to be clipped-in on a mountain bike. Having the ability to quickly dab a foot in times of need is something I value and something that makes me feel comfortable. The Liv’s stock, plastic, flat pedals do have spikes on them, but they don’t give a lot of area for the foot. I prefer a pedal with a wider base for more control, and ones that have metal spikes that can be changed out when they get worn down. Secondly, I’d like to upgrade the grips. The stock grips on the bike are thin rubber and my hands are almost closed when I’m gripping them. I like a thicker, more pillow-top grip that allows me to grip with my fist wider open. I felt myself getting arm pump and finger cramping with the stock grips because I was holding on tightly with what felt like a closed fist.

The e-MTB is a unique product that is appealing to those that may not be able or willing to stick with standard mountain biking, but also for those who absolutely want to rip through trails on a performance-oriented machine. Truthfully, standard mountain biking is really hard–especially at first before you build up the fitness for it, and I vividly remember those days. Before riding this e-MTB, friends told me about how riding an e-MTB has changed their life for the better. It’s heartwarming to see folks able to get out and exercise again after injury; to use it to build up fitness; to enjoy pedaling trails again and keep up with their children (or grandchildren) in their (relative) old age; and moms and girlfriends taking part in activity with their significant others. All of it makes mountain biking truly a family activity.

Then there are those who struggle with PTSD or emotional turmoil and use these machines as a means to get outside, enjoy a new hobby and sport, living life again at which ever pace they choose on that day. One of the most touching accounts someone told me was that when they are in a deep depression, the last thing they want to do is put in the effort to go exercise. With the e-MTB they can spend hours cruising through the woods without feeling drained and they feel like it breathes new life into them. E-MTB’s are great in that they truly can have a place in everyone’s life. You’re able to make the experience what you want it to be with a simple push of an up or down arrow on the handlebar pod. If you’re interested in picking one up, they’re available to order at Giant Bicycles dealers. The Liv Intrigue X E+ 1 retails for $6,400 MSRP. For men wanting an equally sick ride, the gentleman’s equivalent of this high-performance e-MTB would be any of the Giant Trance X E+ models.

Australian Superbike: SuperTwins Cup Added For 2023

David Swarts

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September 5, 2022

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Australian Superbike: SuperTwins Cup Added For 2023

SuperTwins Cup for ASBK in 2023

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) is pleased to announce that a new class – the SuperTwins Cup – will be introduced from Round One of the 2023 ASBK Championship.

The base concept will see the SuperTwins Cup feature as a class within the Supersport Championship battle, where they will be scored separately to the in-line four-cylinder Supersport Class.

The aim of the SuperTwins Cup is to develop a cost-effective mid-level platform, as a steppingstone from the ranks of the Supersport 300 class and prior to the bigger jump to the Superbike Class.

At present, four bikes are set to be homologated in SuperTwins Cup*:

Aprilia RS 660

Kawasaki Ninja 650

Suzuki SV 650

Yamaha R7

*Australian compliant models only:

Peter Doyle, CEO, Motorcycling Australia:

“The SuperTwins Cup is a new class for the ASBK Championship in 2023 that services a number of goals: market relevance, affordability, easier race preparation and close racing. The SuperTwins Cup ticks all the boxes and we believe this will be become a popular class for fans and competitors.

“The Supersport class is the number two racing category in the ASBK Championship and having the SuperTwins Cup racing as a class within a class, this popular and competitive category will ensure maximum exposure as well.

“The ASBK Championship had market relevance as a key aim for this project and this growing segment will now be represented at the pinnacle of the sport.”

Additional information, news and all-important final technical regulations will be released in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on www.asbk.com.au and the ASBK Championship FB page for more

MotoGP: Bagnaia Best In FP2 On Day One Of Misano Test (Updated)

September 6, 2022

Francesco Bagnaia (63) did the best lap time during FP2 of Day One of the post-race MotoGP test at Misano. Photo courtesy Dorna. — Francesco Bagnaia (63). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Session_for_MI1_MotoGP_FP2

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Ducati beat Aprilia to the top, Yamaha make steps forward at Misano

Bagnaia and Marini edge out Aleix Espargaro on Day 1 of the Misano Test, Quartararo reports key progress for Yamaha

Day 1 of the Official MotoGP™ Misano Test is done and dusted and topping the timesheets is San Marino GP winner Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) with a 1:31.292. But Tuesday – and the two-day test in general – is more than just looking at the timesheets, because Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) made his long-awaited return to action and Yamaha rolled out a 2023 engine.

HONDA

Undoubtedly, the biggest news of the day was the return of Marc Marquez. After completing 39 laps ahead of the lunch break, the eight-time World Champion and his team decided to sit out the rest of the afternoon in order to be ready for Day 2 – a great sign that his comeback was a success. The other great sign is that it didn’t take long for the number 93 to start testing new parts for HRC, as the Japanese giants continue to focus on getting their 2023 package right.

Marc Marquez, who finished 1.1s off the quickest time, was riding a black Repsol Honda with a new air intake, aero and downwash ducts on the side fairing, similar to what we’ve seen Ducati using for the past couple of seasons. The downwash ducts are believed to create some ground effect when the bike is on its side, giving more stability and more grip. It now looks like Honda are playing with this idea. In addition, Honda have another set of new side fairings just like the Aprilias that have the large, bulged-out side fairing that seems aimed at creating some ground effect similar to the way a floor does in F1.

One very notable thing to point out was HRC Test Rider Stefan Bradl testing a Kalex-built aluminium swingarm, as shown below. It’s a huge change for Honda as they have used their own in-house carbon swingarm for several years now.

Furthermore, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) was running a brand-new, never seen air intake on one of his bikes. It’s a little wider and not quite as tall as the standard air intake, and differs from the one Marc Marquez was using too. As expected, there was plenty going on in the HRC ranks.

YAMAHA

As we heard ahead of the test, the Iwata factory have a new engine to try in Misano. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) – who completed 80 laps – used it on Tuesday and confirmed that it’s a positive step, which is good news for the Iwata factory. The title chase leader was sixth quickest on the opening day, just under three tenths away from main rival Bagnaia.

A new chassis was also being put through its paces, while one of Franco Morbidelli’s (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) YZR-M1s was spotted with a new air intake. It’s possible that could be part of the 2023 engine package. Moreover, new wings were being tested, which seemed to be larger than those they have on the 2022 bike at the moment.

APRILIA

Aprilia Racing Test Rider Lorenzo Savadori has two bikes to test on Day 1, while it’s believed the Noale factory were testing some new wings. And talking of wings, Aprilia were back running the rear wing that we’ve seen appear a couple of times.

Both Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) and teammate Maverick Viñales took turns topping the times in the afternoon. Eventually, the Spaniards occupied P3 and P5 respectively at the end of play. Espargaro crashed unhurt at the tight, tricky Turn 14.

DUCATI

As strange as it sounds, there wasn’t too much to shout about in terms of updated parts in the Bologna stables on Tuesday. Visibly, anyway. Bagnaia did hint over the weekend that he didn’t think he would be testing too many new things, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t testing anything – far from it.

One thing that was noticed however was the sidepod wing extending down slightly further than the standard one Ducati have been using for some time.

Six Ducatis finished inside the top 10 with Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) second fastest, 0.181s off VR46 Academy colleague Bagnaia, while Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) – who crashed unhurt at Turn 15 – was the third quickest Desmosedici rider in P4.

KTM

Three-time World Champion and MotoGP™ Legend Dani Pedrosa was back on testing duties for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and the Spaniard was seen trying an updated seat and tail unit.

Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the quickest RC16 rider on track, the South African finished P11, 0.624s down on Bagnaia’s pace. After an impressive ride last time out, Raul Fernandez (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) was just 0.059s off Miguel Oliveira’s (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) 1:32.336, but the Spaniard’s day was slightly blighted by a crash at Turn 14.

SUZUKI

With Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) sidelined through injury, 2022 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup winner Dominique Aegerter was given the opportunity to throw his leg over the GSX-RR. The Swiss rider ended the day just 2.6s away from Pecco’s pace; a very impressive performance. On the other side of the box, Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) was trying some cooling parts for the rear of the bike. The Spaniard finished P12 on the timesheets, 0.6s off top spot.

Make sure you keep a keen eye on motogp.com and our social media channels throughout the day on Wednesday, because we can expect it to be another busy day on track. Simon Crafar will be live at 13:00 local time (GMT+2) for the latest updates, so be sure to tune in!

More, from a press release issued by Repsol Honda:

Marc Marquez rides the RC213V again

An encouraging first day for the Repsol Honda Team at the Misano Test as Marc Marquez returned to a MotoGP machine 100 days after his operation and Pol Espargaro showed his and the bike’s potential.

The Adriatic Coast produced another beautiful day as action resumed at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. It was a significant day as Marc Marquez made his return to the Repsol Honda Team for the first time since the Italian GP in late May. Starting just after 09:30 Local Time, the eight-time World Champion completed a brief first run to initially assess his right arm. With all signs being positive, he and the Repsol Honda Team switched into work mode and began their testing programme.

Completing a total of 39 laps before stopping for the day during the lunch break, the #93 ended his first day back on the bike with a best time of 1’32.395 – good enough for 11th on Sunday’s San Marino GP grid. Although lap times were not the focus, Marquez was sstill able to end the day 1.1s behind the fastest rider.

It was an equally positive day for Pol Espargaro who set a best lap of 1’31.707, some 1.1 seconds faster than his time from Q1 on Saturday. Limiting his running due to lingering pain in his right wrist from Sunday’s crash, the #44 was still able to complete 50 laps and stopped just before 16:30 Local Time. Espargaro and his team ran through a number of setting options and improve his feeling aboard the Repsol Honda. Even with the limited laps, Espargaro was satisfied with the day.

Testing resumes tomorrow, Wednesday 07, at 09:00 Local Time. The Repsol Honda Team are aiming for another productive day before preparing for the Aragon GP and the flyaway races.

Marc Marquez

18TH 1’32.395

“After 100 days away, wow – these bikes are fast! It’s the same as when you arrive at the first test after winter, it takes you some time to adjust. It was really good to be back, to ride this bike again and to be with my team. Step by step I felt faster and more comfortable, but I need to work more to gain the strength for longer runs. I was able to try some items for Honda after a few runs because I was feeling good. Honda is working a lot, it’s clear. Our target today wasn’t times, it was to do 40 laps and understand our situation. We decided to stop early to try and ride tomorrow. Tonight, I will do a lot of work with physio, ice and stretching to help with the recovery of the arm.”

Pol Espargaro

NINTH 1’31.707

“On Monday I woke up with a lot of swelling in my rest, but with a lot of ice I have been able to ride today. It’s not as many laps as I would normally do because I am aiming to also ride tomorrow. Even with less laps we have been able to find out some good things, we worked a lot on finding the differences between Qatar and now. It looks like we have found something that could help us get our speed back a bit. The real test for this will be when we arrive in Aragon, but for now it’s good to be on the bike and making laps.”

More, from a press release issued by Mooney VR46 Racing Team:

MARINI AND BEZZECCHI AMONG THE FASTEST AT MISANO TEST

Both riders of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team improve their best lap time of the weekend finishing second and 7th in the combined standings

Misano Adriatico (Italy), September 6th 2022 – Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi are protagonists at the official MotoGP test in Misano Adriatico, the last of the season and on the eve of the Aragon GP for the 15th race of the 2022. Both very fast on the Ducati Desmosedici GP, respectively closed in P2 and P7 in the combined standings, thus improving the performances obtained during the GP just ended.

Strengthened by the fourth place in the race and working on the setting to face the end of the season as best he can, Luca scores a best lap time of 1.31.473 and is only two tenths of a second behind the fastest of the day (1.31.292, Bagnaia) after completing 45 laps.

Positive feelings, 38 laps and steps forward on the set-up also for Marco who set a best of 1.31.591, fastest rookie on the track with a gap of three tenths from the top of the combined.

Luca Marini

A positive test, we haven’t tried so much, just some ideas that came to us during the race GP and that we didn’t have time to test. From the start this morning I had a better feeling, I was fast and consistent. The pace, with a used rear tire, is also very good and I am satisfied. The track conditions were completely different from the race: in the morning I felt at ease, while in the afternoon with a lot of rubber it was difficult to give real and objective feedback. We take full advantage of this step forward at Aragon.

Marco Bezzecchi

A beautiful day: we tested several new settings that I would have liked to try already during the GP, but in free practices it is always difficult to find time. In any case, we made a good step from the GP, the pace was better today and even faster. I fixed those corners where I was struggling and a good lap time came out at the end. I wasn’t 100% in braking, we didn’t understand how to fix the problem and then also sector four in the two fast corners before the straight. We go to Aragon to do well.
Pablo Nieto, Team Manager

An interesting and at the same time demanding day. We did a lot of laps, we focused on the set-up and riding and we are satisfied with what we have done. The lap times are very good, especially with used tires, Luca and Marco have made a further step compared to the race GP and we are ready to tackle the Aragon track, one of the most complicated on the calendar.

More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki ECSTAR:

FINAL TEST OF THE SEASON PROVES POSITIVE FOR TEAM SUZUKI ECSTAR

Alex Rins: 12th – 1’31.936 – +0.644

Dominique Aegerter: 27th – 1’33.907 – +2.615

Team Suzuki Ecstar completed the Misano Test on Tuesday with positive steps found for Alex Rins and Dominique Aegerter enjoying a new experience trying the GSX-RR.

The focus and main priority for Rins was comparing some new hardware, as well as a bit of suspension testing and confirm fairing options, working to find improvements ahead of the final races of the season. He put in a total of 53 laps around the Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli on and reported a positive outcome from the work done by himself and the team.

For Aegerter, the thrilling experience left him impressed with the speed and power of the GSX-RR, but it also proved interesting for the Suzuki squad, who could get yet another perspective on the feel and handling of their bike.

The team have now completed their items list and will not participate in tomorrow’s test.

Alex Rins:

“Today went smoothly and I found it helpful. I only rode in the morning, and we managed to try all the items that we wanted to, and we now feel clearer about the things that could be useful to us in the next races. It also clarified for us that we had made good choices earlier in the season. We felt it was better not to ride in the afternoon because we finished the programme and there was no need to take any unnecessary ‘risk’. I’m looking ahead to Aragon now, and I’m excited to ride there in front of a home crowd.”

Dominique Aegerter:

“It’s difficult to put into words; it’s just been an amazing experience. Thanks again to Suzuki for letting me ride their bike – and also my World Supersport team, Ten Kate, who have allowed me to take this opportunity. On my first lap I was so impressed with the power and grip, it was incredible. Then, when I got to the straight for the first time, I was screaming inside my helmet! I improved with each exit and it was great to work with these guys and to experience all the things the GSX-RR has to offer.”

Livio Suppo – Team Manager:

“It was a positive day; Alex found some things that could help him in the remaining races and we feel pretty positive. Of course, our goal is to get strong results in the next rounds. A good target would be fifth place in the championship, and that would be a nice way to stay motivated. Dominique did a very good job, only a few laps but reasonable times! Hopefully we’ll see Joan back with us in Aragon, and we should have an update about that in the next days.”

Ken Kawauchi – Technical Manager:

“We tried a couple of things in terms of hardware, originally planned for use in 2023, but obviously we brought it forward. We also worked on a different spec. of the rear device and some suspension options, and finally an aerodynamics comparison. We finished everything successfully today, so we will not test tomorrow. Thank you to Alex and Dominique for their hard work – for a first time on a MotoGP bike, Domi’s lap times were pretty good. We’re happy with this last test of the year.”

More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP MAKE POWERFUL PROGRESS ON MISANO TEST DAY 1

Misano Adriatico (Italy), 6th September 2022

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP‘s Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli returned to action at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli today, keen to boost their overall performance. They finished the first day of the two-day IRTA Misano MotoGP Official Test in 6th and 14th place respectively in the combined timesheets.

6th FABIO QUARTARARO 1‘31.588 (FP1) / 43+37 LAPS

14th FRANCO MORBIDELLI 1‘32.048 (FP2) / 44+44 LAPS

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team returned to the scene of last weekend‘s San Marino GP, the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, for the first day of the two-day 2022 Official Misano MotoGP Test. Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli used today‘s two four-hour sessions to compare testing times. They secured 6th and 14th place respectively.

Quartararo was motivated to get to work this morning. Though he is in the middle of the fight for the 2022 championship title, his mind is already on his 2023 campaign. He had three bikes at his disposal: one with a new chassis, one with the prototype 2023 engine, and one 2022 race bike for comparison. He completed 43 laps in FP1 and 37 laps in FP2. His fastest time of the day was set in the morning. That 1‘31.588s lap put him in sixth place in the Day 1 Misano Test rankings, 0.296s from first.

Morbidelli had been disappointed to see his otherwise solid San Marino GP weekend cut short after only two laps of racing. However, focusing on the positive, the Italian was keen to spend the available track time of the Misano Test to further build on his improved feeling with the YZR-M1 as well as trying other testing items, including the prototype 2023 engine. He rode 44 laps in the morning and 44 laps in afternoon, setting a 1‘32.048s in FP2 to finish the test in 14th place, 0.756s from the top.

FABIO QUARTARARO

Today we had three bikes: one was the standard bike, one with a new chassis, and one with the first prototype 2023 engine. I had the chance to test all three bikes today. The new chassis was good, we will bring it to Aragon in any case, but I don’t know if we will try it there too. The first steps with the 2023 bike were good. It works pretty well in the areas of acceleration and top speed, so I’m happy. Considering that this is just the first step, I’m looking forward to the next engine improvement. Those were the two things I tested today: chassis and engine. I feel a bit better in the ’top area‘. This is a good step. It’s the first time that we really feel that we made an improvement. Yamaha are confident that they can improve a bit more, so hopefully they will do it.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Today was a smooth day. We managed to complete the programme. It was quite full, but we were able to go over every item with good precision, good runs, and good information. Also, the pace was quite steady to try stuff, so it was an interesting day. The new engine feels good. It’s very nice. It keeps the nice and mellow behaviour of the Yamaha ’on the bottom‘, in the higher gears and high rpms it develops quite a bit of speed.

Bagger Racing League: Eslick Wins Bagger GP Races At Milwaukee Mile

September 6, 2022

Danny Eslick (69) won both Bagger Racing League (BRL) Bagger GP races at the Milwaukee Mile. Patricia Fernandez (87) won both of the Big Twins races. Photo by Cathy Drexler/Antique Motorcycle Club of America, courtesy BRL. — Danny Eslick (69) and Patricia Fernandez (87) in action at the Milwaukee Mile in 2022. Photo by Cathy Drexler/Antique Motorcycle Club of America, courtesy BRL.

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

Battle of the Baggers Milwaukee Results

MotoGP: Aleix Espargaro Quickest In FP1 On Day One Of Misano Test

September 6, 2022

Aleix Espargaro (41), as seen on Saturday at Misano. Photo courtesy Aprilia. — Aleix Espargaro (41). Photo courtesy Aprilia.

2022_MISANO_MotoGP____OFFICIAL_TEST__classification_1

AHRMA: Race Results From Gingerman Raceway

September 6, 2022

Jonas Stein (123) leads Paul Germain (61), Tony Read (176), and Ross Tuffli (27X) during 250 GP Race One at Gingerman Raceway. Photo by Kevin McIntosh, courtesy AHRMA.

Editorial Note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all pages of the results.

RRW 2022 Gingerman Raceway - Weekend Results

N2/WERA Endurance: Army Of Darkness Wins At Road Atlanta

September 5, 2022

Chris Peris (99) at speed on the Army of Darkness Yamaha YZF-R1 at Road Atlanta. Photo by AKHUGHES Sports Media, courtesy AOD. — Chris Peris (99) at speed on the Army of Darkness Yamaha YZF-R1 at Road Atlanta in 2022. Photo by AKHUGHES Sports Media, courtesy AOD.