Signed Quartararo Helmet Being Auctioned To Benefit Canadian Rider Fund

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

Signed Quartararo Helmet Being Auctioned To Benefit Canadian Rider Fund

Importations Thibault raffling signed Quartararo helmet ahead of CTMP finale

Shubenacadie, NS – Importations Thibault is pleased to announce they will raffle a signed replica Fabio Quartararo Scorpion helmet ahead of the CSBK finale at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, with proceeds going towards the Canadian Rider Fund.

Tickets are now on sale for $10 each through the official CSBK website, while the random draw will take place during the CSBK doubleheader finale at CTMP on the weekend of August 12-14.

The helmet is an exact reflection of Quartararo’s trademark “El Diablo” Scorpion design worn by the reigning MotoGP World Champion, complete with the authentic BS Battery logos, iconic #20 number plate, and Quartararo’s own personal autograph.

The 23-year-old French rider has quickly become one of the most recognizable names in motorsports, amassing eleven wins, 26 podiums, and 16 pole positions in his premier class career, while capturing the 2021 crown and currently leading the 2022 standings for the Monster Energy Factory Yamaha Team.

Quartararo has been a proud representative of BS Battery since 2019, while the Sherbrooke, QC-based Importations Thibault serves as the national distributor of both BS Battery products and Scorpion helmets.

Importations Thibault and BS Battery have also become key figures in the CSBK paddock, with the latter serving as the title sponsor of the Pro Superbike qualifying sessions and the season-long Pole Position Award.

The Canadian Rider Fund, established in 2008, is a registered non-profit dedicated to providing barriers and installations at motorcycle events across the country, specifically the successful Bottle Bag system seen at many Canadian tracks – most notably on the east coast at Atlantic Motorsport Park.

The announcement of the winner will be one of many events throughout the weekend at CTMP, with three feature Pro Superbike races to decide the 2022 championship.

British Superbike: Ray Quickest During Practice Friday At Brands Hatch

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

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British Superbike: Ray Quickest During Practice Friday At Brands Hatch

Editorial Note: Americans Julian Correa and Elijah Banish were 16th and 22nd, respectively, in British Talent Cup combined practice results Friday at Brands Hatch.

Ray remains on top at Brands Hatch with 0.8s covering the top 14 contenders

Bradley Ray was able to stay ahead of his Bennetts British Superbike Championship rivals at Brands Hatch this afternoon, setting the pace on the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha to top the combined SUPERPICKS Free Practice times at his local circuit by just 0.147s.

The championship leader went to the top of the times in the closing minutes of the session as the conditions continued to improve and the pace intensified, with the positions changing constantly in the closing moments.

Peter Hickman was a rider also on a charge in the closing minutes as he fired the FHO Racing BMW into second place on his penultimate lap of the session, nudging a hard-charging Jason O’Halloran into third place on the leading McAMS Yamaha with 0.011s separating the teammates as Tarran Mackenzie held fourth position.

Just 0.007s separated Ryan Vickers from the defending champion ahead of him; the FHO Racing with Attis Sports rider had been in the leading position with four minutes remaining on the clock before the final flurry of improvements.

Glenn Irwin was sixth fastest for Honda Racing UK, just 0.008s ahead of former double champion Josh Brookes who had a strong start to his weekend with the MCE Ducati team. The Australian had also been at the top of the timing screens in the final ten minutes, but had to settle for seventh just ahead of Tommy Bridewell on the Oxford Products Racing Ducati.

Danny Buchan was ninth fastest for SYNETIQ BMW ahead of his home round of the season, edging out Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki’s Rory Skinner who completed the top ten.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, SUPERPICKS Free Practice combined times:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1m:25.140s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.147s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +0.158s
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) +0.165s
Ryan Vickers (FHO Racing with Attis Sports) +0.173s
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +0.212s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) +0.220s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.298s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.331s
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) +0.462s

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Bradley Ray – Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha

“That’s my fastest ever lap around Brands Hatch which is great especially in the tough conditions we’ve had today, but it’s nice to come back after a five week break and get here to my home round and start well.

“To do a good job at my home round in front of the home crowd is my aim so I’m just super happy to be back on the bike and to start off well.

“I just treat it like any circuit, I enjoy it here I enjoy having family and friends watch it’s a unique circuit and the bike is working well so it’s all good.

“I think we’re in a good place, the bike is working really well I’m feeling good in myself so let’s see what we can do in the races.”

Watch The Ducati Race Of Champions July 23 Live On MotoAmerica TV

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

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Watch The Ducati Race Of Champions July 23 Live On MotoAmerica TV

Watch The Race of Champions Live on MotoAmerica TV

One of the most anticipated moments of the big Ducati gathering is Saturday, July 23: the Lenovo Race of Champions. 21 Ducati riders competing in the MotoGP, World Superbike and Supersport, and MotoAmerica Superbike championships will take to the track to put on an exciting show on Panigale V4 and Panigale V2 bikes in a double-category competition with two winners.

Don’t miss the livestream on MotoAmerica TV HERE

Saturday, July 23rd, 2022, from 6:40 AM PDT / 9:40 AM EDT *

*Replay will be streamed on Tuesday, July 26th, 2022, at 5 PM PDT / 8 PM EDT

Harley-Davidson Museum Unveils All-New Experience Gallery

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

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Harley-Davidson Museum Unveils All-New Experience Gallery

Take a spin in the all-new Experience Gallery at the Harley-Davidson Museum

Plus, guided tours – including Beyond the Gate access – are back!

MILWAUKEE, USA (July 12, 2022) – If it seems like there’s something new popping up on the campus of the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum every month, you’re right! The 10,000-square-foot Harley-Davidson® Shop – with its eclectic collection of exclusive apparel, collectibles and accessories – has been wowing customers since opening in June. And now, the all-new Experience Gallery has been unveiled, bringing the thrill of the open road to guests from all corners of the globe.

With this new multimedia experience, guests will be able hear straight from the H-D team how Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are designed and engineered to be the most desirable in the world. Find inspiration from your fellow riders’ stories or discover how easy it is to take the first step in learning how to ride. And of course, finish off your visit by throwing a leg over one of five fresh-from-the-factory Harley-Davidson® models – including the Pan America™, a premier two-wheel multi-tool built to endure, designed to explore, and engineered for adventure.

Plus, the Harley-Davidson Museum is thrilled to announce that guided tours have made their triumphant return. And they’re all new in ’22! The guided-tour portfolio has been updated with new experiences and content. Choose from the Spotlight Tour, the Beyond the Gate Tour or the VIP Tour.

And another community event will be headed back to campus this month. The H-D Museum is partnering with WISN-TV and 102.9 The Hog to host “Coffee with the Morning Crew.” Mark your calendars for Friday, July 29 as we welcome everyone to stop down to 6^th & Canal for a morning of fun, prizes and free coffee.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS

H-D Museum™ Bike Night Concert Series powered by Budweiser® King of Beers and Bulleit® Bourbon, Thursdays, 5 – 9 p.m.

All wheels unite every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Join riders (and non-riders) for free live music from some of Milwaukee’s favorite bands, fun, drool-worthy rolling sculptures and outdoor food and beverage. The Bike Night Koozie Special is back. Enjoy $3 Busch Light all season long.

7/14 The Cactus Bros.

7/21 Milwaukee Tool Shed Band

7/28 Andrew Wayne & Mud Creek Road

Coffee with the WISN Morning Crew, Friday, July 29, 8 – 10 a.m.

Hey Milwaukee! Come and drink some free Colectivo Hillclimber Coffee with the WISN 12 News This Morning team on Friday, July 29. WISN 12 is teaming up with 102.9 The HOG and the Harley-Davidson Museum to host YOU for a morning of fun, prizes, and free coffee.

Saturday Demos powered by H-D Insurance, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Visit the Museum campus on Saturdays to experience the fun and freedom of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Visitors with their motorcycle endorsement/license will be able to choose from a dozen of the latest and greatest #FreedomMachines from Harley-Davidson, including Touring, Softail®, Sportster®, Adventure Touring and Electric models. A pre-determined scenic route through the Menomonee Valley will give riders the chance to explore the Museum’s surrounding neighborhoods. Sign-up is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Riders and passengers must be at least 18 years of age. All riders (and passengers) must wear proper riding gear including a helmet, eye protection, shirt / jacket, long pants and closed-toe shoes with heel strap.

Annual Pass

Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s new Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Guided Tours

All new in ’22. Our guided tour portfolio has been updated with new experiences and content. Choose from the Spotlight Tour, the Beyond the Gate Tour or the VIP Tour. Some tours are available to the public; this schedule will vary. To book a private group tour, please call 414-287-2799 or email for more information. Advance reservations and prepayment required at least 2-weeks prior to tour date. Please note: Tour fee does not include General Admission.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.)

All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be launched by our merit badge counselor. Then, scouts will explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date. Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, partially facilitated program, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)

This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

Experience Gallery (on display now)

With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride!

1977 FLH “Blackula” (on display beginning May 13)

Milwaukee man about town Freddie Franklin purchased his Electra Glide® motorcycle from its original owner, 95-year-old Wallace Brzezinski, with only 4,500 miles on its odometer. And in short order, he completely re-envisioned the bike to reflect his timeless style. The motorcycle incorporates some hallmarks of Franklin’s disparate tastes. A dash of the Coney Island-style bikes – decked out with lights and reflectors – he adored mixed in with elements of Willie G.’s seminal Knucklehead and topped off with details that harken to the 1970s blaxploitation films Franklin watched back in the day. A clear statement of Black pride via the language of vintage motorcycles, this is a bike you must see in-person.

Keith Brammer (Die Kreuzen) leather jacket (on display now)

Perhaps no other genre of music is so closely associated with the classic black leather jacket than punk rock. Keith Brammer, of Milwaukee’s hardcore punk band Die Kreuzen, has graciously lent his well-worn leather to the H-D Museum. The jacket was purchased in New York City in the 1980s and was a constant companion for Brammer throughout his touring days. Check out the Custom Culture gallery to view this piece of Milwaukee music history.

Revolution® Max Engine (on display now)

The brand-new Revolution® Max 1250cc engine powers a new generation of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. See the liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin that delivers for the Pan America™ adventure touring model and the performance cruiser Sportster® S motorcycle. On view in the Museum lobby.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The newly reinstalled display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

Harley Fox (on display now)

Gail Anderson’s 1986 Softail® Custom motorcycle, “Harley Fox,” built by her partner Bob Burrows, took top prize at the first Ladies of Harley® (LOH) ride-in show during Daytona Beach Bike Week in 1987. With her custom bike and themed riding gear, Anderson presented a striking image that fit the growing visibility and exciting new options for women riders in the 1980s.

Alfonso Sotomayor’s 1957 Model FL (on display now)

The Harley-Davidson Museum is proud to announce its collection has recently grown with the addition of a 1957 Model FL that was ridden by famed Mexican stunt rider and racer Alfonso Sotomayor Canales.

Harley-Davidson’s history in Mexico dates back to at least 1913. In the 1920s, the brand was more frequently spotted throughout Mexico City as the motorcycles proved popular with the local traffic police who would also perform stunts with their Harley-Davidson® bikes. After racing from the 1930s into the 1960s, Sotomayor launched his own stunt riding career by performing the famed “Salto de la Muerte” or Jump of Death. Learn more about Sotomayor’s feats of derring-do and Harley-Davidson’s early entry into Mexico with this new display located in the Custom Culture area.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared.

“Building a Milwaukee Icon: Harley-Davidson’s Juneau Avenue Factory” (on display now)

A recently recovered cache of architectural drawings includes plans for the original Juneau Avenue facility. The pencil drawings, along with archival photographs, demonstrate the whirlwind pace of the company’s early growth. While building an international business—going from producing just over 1,000 motorcycles in 1909 to manufacturing 27,000 motorcycles in 1920—the company’s Milwaukee factory experienced near-constant expansion. Construction through this relatively brief period created the buildings that today, a century later, are still the proud home of Harley-Davidson.

“Building a Milwaukee Icon” provides a snapshot of Harley-Davidson’s formative years and illustrates a chapter of Milwaukee history when the city was known as the “Machine Shop to the World.”

Google Arts & Culture, Bring a 1919 Window Display to Life (on display now)

We scoured the Harley-Davidson Archives to identify the colorful pamphlets used to catch the attention of those passing by this dealership window.

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT

As Milwaukee enters the dog days of summer, it’s a good time to remember that MOTOR’s waterfront patios are pup friendly. Whether you’re hoping to try the new Sunday brunch (complete with bloody mary bar), meeting up for lunch or listening to the tunes coming from the Bike Night stage, Fido will love the scene at MOTOR.

And the July monthly specials – Teriyaki Salmon (grilled Atlantic salmon glazed with house-made teriyaki sauce, served on a bed of udon noodles, fresh vegetables and Thai chili sauce, $22.95), Turkey Cobb Wrap (smoked sliced turkey breast, avocado, applewood bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sweet corn, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch dressing, wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla and served with French fries and pickle spear, $17.95) and Grilled Berry Shortcake (grilled sweet corn cakes, berry medley compote and vanilla ice cream, $8.95) – celebrate the season of outdoor dining. Make your reservations (for two- or four-legged friends) today.

SAVE THE DATES

Hometown Rally™ Event, Sept. 1 – 5

About the Harley-Davidson Museum

Discover culture and history through stories and interactive exhibits that celebrate expression, camaraderie, and love for the sport at the Harley-Davidson Museum. A visit to the H-D Museum is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. With an unrivaled collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and memorabilia, a 20-acre, park-like campus, and a calendar full of activities, the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. Make your plans to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum at H-DMuseum.com.

WorldSBK: Next Stop Is July 29-31 At Partially Repaved Autodrom Most

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

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WorldSBK: Next Stop Is July 29-31 At Partially Repaved Autodrom Most

After more twists in the title race at Donington, WorldSBK heads to the Autodrom Most with the Championship battle hotting up

WorldSBK returns to the Autodrom Most for the second time as the Czech circuit hosted the event back in 2021.

The 2022 Czech Round will see Prosecco DOC as its Event Main Sponsor and the event will be taking place on July 29th-31st.

The Italian wine consortium has been an Official Sponsor of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship since 2013, with the renowned beverage is sprayed after every podium celebration.

WorldSBK in numbers

1000 – After one podium from Alvaro Bautista at Donington Park, Ducati are just one away from hitting 1000: they’d be the first manufacturer to reach this goal.

100 – Yamaha, after a hat-trick of wins by Toprak Razgatlioglu at Donington Park, counts 99 wins, 20 shy of the third all-time place held by Honda, and just one shy of 100.

32 – Both Yamaha and Kawasaki have won at 32 different tracks in WorldSBK history, but if Yamaha won here last year, Kawasaki has yet to climb on the top step at Most.

11 – Yamaha has qualified on the front row in Superpole in the last eleven races, a record-breaking streak for the manufacturer.

10 – Both Alvaro Bautista and Toprak Razgatlioglu count 22 career wins and, with three wins on the line in Most, they both have a chance to enter the top ten of all time.

What to look out for in Most

Championship P1 – 246 points

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Ducati Racing)

It will be Bautista’s first-time racing at the Autodrom Most with Ducati.

In 2021, he qualified in 11th place and his best result was a seventh place In Race 1.

He leads the WorldSBK standings with 246 points, despite his DNF In Race 1 at Donington Park.

“I never ride in Most with Ducati, but I think last year Redding was quite fast there last year. The layout seems nice, and I hope to enjoy the track. But I don’t expect anything, we’ll start to work on Friday to try to find the best setup, the best feeling. We also have to see how the new asphalt is, as they resurfaced some part of the track, how will the tyre consumption be because I think Pirelli will bring different tyre options from the standards.”

Championship P2 – 229 points

Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)

In 2021, Rea recorded the first pole position at Most in WorldSBK. He finished in third place in the Superpole Race and Race 2, while he did not finish Race 1.

So far, he has won on 21 different tracks, an all-time record, but Most is not among those.

He stands in second place in the Championship standings, 17 points behind Bautista.

“I’m excited to go to Most. I’ve got some unfinished business there because last year was quite disappointing. It was a tough weekend for me and the bike. But it was the first time we ever visited the track so this year we’ll have some data. I know that they have resurfaced some part of the circuit, so they’ve been working hard. It’s a fun track. Like in Estoril, the first time I visited Estoril wasn’t so good and the next time we came back, we won some races. So that would be incredible if we could return to Most and win some races before the summer break. The Championship is now really close.”

Championship P3 – 203 points

Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)

In 2021, Razgatlioglu won from the second grid spot Race 1 and the Superpole Race, before finishing second behind Scott Redding in Race 2.

After his first WorldSBK hat-trick, he Is currently third in the standings, 43 points behind Bautista and 26 behind Rea.

“In Most, Ducati is usually very strong, Rea will be fast, but we’ll keep fighting for the victory. I like the track. There will be some parts with a new asphalt so we will see. We’re not looking at the Championship yet and I’m just looking race by race.”

Championship P4 – 124 points

Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)

In 2021, Locatelli claimed his second career podium in Race 1.

“Last year in Most, it was an incredible weekend for me. We took one podium, we did very well all weekend. If we want to do the same this year, we need to work on the bike and push to close the gap because I think in Most we can do very well.”

Championship P5 – 119 points

Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Ducati Racing)

In 2021, Rinaldi was 4th and 5th in the full-distance races and 10th in the Superpole one.

With 119 points in the standings, he is now only five points behind Locatelli in fourth.

“In Most, I expect to be there fighting at the front because right now, I’m feeling comfortable with the bike. I’m really happy with the team and we work in a really good way. I think the goal will be the podium in Most.”

Championship P6 – 116 points

Iker Lecuona (Team HRC)

It will be Lecuona’s first visit at the Autodrom Most.

He’s the only rider to have scored top ten finishes in every race this season.

“I’ve spent a week just relaxing and resting. It was important to try and recover generally and regain strength after a very busy six weeks of testing around the world. I’ve basically not stopped recently, and I really felt it at Donington. So I’ve done my best to recover in preparation for Most, another new track where we need to start from scratch. I’ve never even seen a video of the track actually, so Friday’s free practice sessions will be crucial. In my case, this is the third of several new tracks we are going to visit this season and, so far, we have been able to adapt well, so we must keep up the good work.”

To keep an eye on:

Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) claimed his first podium with BMW at Donington Park. With three podium places including a victory in Race 2 in 2021 at Most, he will be one to look out for in 2022. Talking about his expectations for the Czech Round, he said; “We’ve been too consistent in Donington, in different conditions. I don’t think we’re going to go backward in Most. It’s a circuit that I like, and it will be a good test. I believe that we’ve made a good step this weekend.”

Championship standings (after Race 2 – Round 5)

1. Alvaro Bautista (ESP) Ducati (246 points)

2. Jonathan Rea (GBR) Kawasaki (229 points)

3. Toprak Razgatlioglu (TUR) Yamaha (203 points)

Video: MV Agusta Factory Tour, Part Two

David Swarts

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July 22, 2022

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Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming and Melissa Berkoff visited the MV Agusta factory in Varese, Italy in April 2022.

It is very rare to be able to video inside a modern motorcycle factory so you can join Sam and Melissa in a detailed walk through the factory.

This is a multi-part series.

In Part 2 we see the engine assembly, the motorcycle assembly, the engine testing, and the motorcycle ABS testing.

Most of these videos are unscripted and had to be shot contemporaneously with the tour so forgive any verbal slips or the handheld nature of the camera work.

00:10 Assembly Lines – Engines and Bikes!

00:56 Crankshafts

01:24 Transmissions

02:37 Pistons and Connecting Rods

04:14 Testa (Valve Head Assembly)

04:45 Engine Assembly Line

06:15 Clutch Baskets

06:46 Completed Engines

07:26 Steering head bearings…with grease!

08:05 Start of Bike Assembly Line

11:25 Fluids Added to Completed Bike

13:00 Engine Testing

16:16 Bike testing

We hope you find this look inside the factory as fascinating as we did. Please let us know in the comments!

Sign up to our email list to be notified when more videos are released here: http://list.13x.com/cgi-bin/mailman/l…

Subscribe to the print magazine at http://roadracingworld.com

See an archive of other Army Of Darkness articles at http://Armyofdarkness.com

@roadracingworld @mvagusta @vansonleathers

British Superbike: Ray Leads Championship Heading To Brands Hatch

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

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British Superbike: Ray Leads Championship Heading To Brands Hatch

Home hero Ray leads the way as Bennetts BSB reaches Brands Hatch

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship returns to Brands Hatch this weekend (22-24 July) for round five as the title fight hits the halfway mark ahead of the Showdown. Kent’s Bradley Ray holds the advantage at the top of the standings ahead of his local event, as he aims to keep the momentum going in front of his home crowd.

The Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha rider holds a 16-point lead ahead of the next three races this weekend having delivered his best start to a season, claiming three wins and a further seven podium finishes. However, McAMS Yamaha’s Jason O’Halloran is closing rapidly and he’s currently riding the crest of a wave after a double victory at Knockhill carried him to second in the standings.

The ‘Team Green’ counter attack though comes thick and fast from Lee Jackson and Rory Skinner as the Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing teammates lock out third and fourth in the standings courtesy of their podium finishing form so far.

Kyle Ryde on the second Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha holds fifth in the standings and will be gunning for another win. He’s just ahead of Glenn Irwin, who is aiming to replicate the form that carried him to a Silverstone hat-trick at the start of the season.

Tommy Bridewell took the fight for the victories all the way to the chequered flag when the championship last visited Brands Hatch in 2021. The Oxford Products Racing Ducati rider will be aiming for nothing less than a fight for the podium at a circuit that has been strong for him in the past.

Danny Buchan completes the all-important top eight ahead of Brands Hatch; the SYNETIQ BMW rider holds a seven point lead over Josh Brookes; the rider who has won the most races on the Grand Prix circuit of the current grid. The MCE Ducati rider has yet to stand on the podium this season and his teammate Tom Sykes will also be eager to fire himself into contention for a Showdown position.

Reigning champion Tarran Mackenzie is returning to full fitness and the McAMS Yamaha rider has fond memories of Brands Hatch after his race wins last season took him to title glory. He will be hoping that a strong performance could get his title defence back on track after returning from injury.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 216
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 200
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) 174
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) 148
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 141
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 134
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 94
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 84

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Bradley Ray – Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha

“We are still leading the championship four rounds in and have been so consistent; we have only been off the podium twice all year and one of those was a crash out of the lead and the other one was a fourth at Knockhill.

“Consistency is obviously key this year and podium points are what we are aiming for at the moment. As everyone knows the Showdown in another four rounds’ time so we need to keep racking up as many podium points as possible because at the end of the day when we get to the Showdown, that is what is going to make the difference.

“It obviously feels nice to be leading the championship but I am not thinking about that too much right now, the most important thing is to secure our place in the Showdown and have as many podium points as possible going into the final three rounds.

“I am really looking forward to head to Brands Hatch for my home race, going into this round after such a strong start to the season bodes well and the Yamaha seems to work very well around the Grand Prix circuit.

“I think it will be a wicked weekend and it would be nice to be on the top step at my home round in front of my fans and family who come to support me. I am fit and ready and I can’t wait to try and carry on this season as we are – keep smiling and feeling happy!”

US-Based Ryvid Releases Anthem – A $7,800 Electric Motorcycle

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

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US-Based Ryvid Releases Anthem – A $7,800 Electric Motorcycle

RYVID INTRODUCES AEROSPACE-INSPIRED ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE, THE ANTHEM

Irvine, Calif. – Ryvid, a US-based company specializing in innovative EV mobility, has announced the launch of the Anthem, a fresh take on two-wheeled urban transport. The first 1,000 units, which can be pre-ordered beginning Sunday, August 14, 2022, at 10 a.m. PST, will feature proprietary technology, including an ultra-lightweight monocoque-inspired chassis, Ergo-Easy ride height-adjustable seat, integrated rear drive unit and removable battery pack for easy charging.

The battery pack on the Ryvid Anthem is removeable, making recharging easier for apartment residents and office building workers. Image courtesy Ryvid.

The Anthem Launch Edition is a first-of-its-kind, customizable motorcycle that combines advanced aerospace technology with the simplicity of EV architecture, allowing anyone to experience riding in its most elemental form. It is capable of speeds up to 75+ mph with a range of up to 75+ miles (50 miles in Sport Mode) on a single charge and is ideally suited for commuting and urban transport.

The right side of a Ryvid Anthem Launch Edition electric motorcycle. Image courtesy Ryvid.

Its corrosion-free, lightweight frame is cloaked beneath minimal, sleek bodywork bringing its total weight to just 240 pounds (175 pounds without battery) with a carrying capacity of 400 pounds. The Anthem also has a modular head tube unit, adjustable front and rear suspension and an Ergo-Easy ride height-adjustable seat which allows the seat to electrically morph from 30” up to 34” – enabling a wide range of users. Furthermore, a 4.9-inch TFT display delivers information and key data such as speed and state of charge to the rider with ultimate clarity in any light.

The frame and rear drive unit of the Ryvid Anthem Launch Edition. Image courtesy Ryvid.

The EV’s easily removable and rollable 4.3 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged in three hours on a 220V outlet or in six hours on a 110V outlet. The Anthem’s fully enclosed motor and belt drive is housed in the swingarm, a single-piece die-cast construction with integrated cooling fins for maximum efficiency. Enclosing the motor and belt drive also provides improved durability and low maintenance. Motor output is rated at 53 ft-lb of torque, which are transferred to the road via a 4.7:1 ratio, delivering up to 250 ft-lb at the final drive. Dynamic energy is also recaptured using regenerative braking technology.

“Especially in this climate, it makes sense to have something designed to optimize the rider experience without the hassles of repair associated with a typical motorcycle,” says Ryvid Founder and CEO Dong Tran. “Riding the Anthem is a personal experience, with a level of customization that translates to a feeling that the bike was built just for you. We’re not a powersports brand but a mobile sports company. We are thrilled to deliver a product that will hugely impact how people view electric micro-mobility and introduce the Anthem to a market we know is ready for it.”

Ryvid’s Anthem Launch Edition is priced at $7,800 and will have a limited lifetime warranty on the frame, two-year warranty on the power pack and one-year standard motorcycle warranty. Deliveries are slated to begin Summer of 2023. Pre-orders for the Anthem Launch Edition will be limited to 1,000 units and are only available at www.ryvid.com.

About Ryvid

Founded by enthusiasts, engineered by innovators, and designed by aerospace industry gearheads, Ryvid was formed by a desire to combine the heart of an EV with the soul of moto. The company’s name derives from the merging of “rhythm” and “avid,” elements of motion and emotion that define the experience of riding a Ryvid.

WorldSBK: Van Der Mark Extends Contract With BMW Motorrad

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

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WorldSBK: Van Der Mark Extends Contract With BMW Motorrad

Michael van der Mark starts for BMW Motorrad Motorsport again in the 2023 WorldSBK.

Michael van der Mark enters his third season with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in 2023.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport expects return from injury after the summer break.

Michael van der Mark: “I am sure that we have a successful future together”.

Munich. Michael van der Mark (NED) and BMW Motorrad Motorsport have extended their collaboration and will compete together again in the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK). 2023 will be van der Mark’s third season on the BMW M 1000 RR, and he will once again team up with Scott Redding (GBR) in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.

Van der Mark has been a BMW Motorrad works rider since 2021. His biggest success to date on the BMW M 1000 RR came last season at Portimão (POR) where he took victory in the Superpole race. This season, injury has prevented the Dutchman from contesting any more than the races at his home event at Assen (NED). At the following event at Estoril (POR) he fractured his right femoral neck. He is currently in recovery. BMW Motorrad Motorsport expects him to return after the summer break in the WorldSBK.

“We are very pleased that Michael is remaining with us,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “In his first season, in 2021, he adapted very well to the BMW M 1000 RR, which was initially unfamiliar to him. He confirmed this with victory at Portimão. His contribution to the development of the M RR in its first season was hugely important to our whole project. Unfortunately, Michael has been plagued by injury since the winter. However, we are confident that, when he is fit and can race again, he will soon return to his original strength on the M RR, and be able to build on that. Even during this recovery period, Michael has remained closely involved in the BMW family. It is excellent that he will remain an integral part of the family in the future. It was important to us to complete the contract extension before the summer break, also to express our faith in him, which allows him to focus fully on his recovery. We are looking forward to his comeback and a strong 2023 season together.”

“I am very happy in the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family and pleased about the extension of our collaboration,” said van der Mark. “Unfortunately, for me personally, the current season has not worked out how I had imagined so far. However, I cannot change that. It is now important to recover fully. Personally, I want to get back on my BMW M 1000 RR as quickly as possible. I miss everything – the team, the bike, racing. However, all that matters is what the doctors say, and I am following their recommendations. We’ll have to see exactly when I can race again. I saw at Assen just how much potential the bike has this season, and the project has made further progress since then – you could see that in the recent races, and it was confirmed by Scott’s podium last time out at Donington. I am looking forward to returning to action and doing my bit. I am sure we have a successful future together.”

AHRMA Recaps The Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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AHRMA Recaps The Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

Vintage Music Thundered Across Laguna Seca as AHRMA hosted its second Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey

(July 20, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association descended on WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca this past weekend hosting their second AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey, July 15-17. Perfect weather greeted racers and fans with a record attendance of 7,000. It was truly the sound of music as over 1,000 total race entries roared across this 522-acre facility.

“I am excited to announce these numbers as AHRMA showcased most of our disciplines over the course of three days! In my opinion, the west coast was treated to the best of what AHRMA has to offer, whether it was bikes ripping it up on the motocross, flat track and cross-country tracks, riding slow and precise in the trials or screaming down the Corkscrew on a vintage or modern road racer,” stated Brian Larrabure, AHRMA’s Chairman of the Board.

Vintage thunder echoed on the legendary Laguna Seca road course as racers maneuvered the famous Corkscrew as part of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series rounds 15 and 16.

AHRMA’s Road Race Director, Dewanna Comer was pleased overall with the weekend’s outcome, “In keeping with our overarching theme this weekend, road racing too offered something for everyone. It was exciting to witness fans with tents in various areas of the track cheering on our full line of bikes. Whether it was the CB160 Le Mans start, our largest grid Sound of Thunder or crowd-favorite Sidecars, these guys and gals put on a show.”

The 4SR/Jemco AHRMA Dirt Track series dirt track was built in the dry lake bed area of the infield for the first time. The old saying, “Build it and they will come.” proved true as riders and fans alike enjoyed the groomed 1/8 mile oval.

Dirt Track Director Richard Brodock stated, “We had the vision and contacted the Salinas Ramblers. Through joint efforts we were able to provide a great racing experience. Entries included a Harley KR750, a BSA Gold Star and several Bultaco Astros. We learned a lot and expect next year to be bigger and better!”

Also being offered for the first time was AHRMA’s Bridgestone Tires Cross Country Series. The course start utilized the vintage motorcycle track and then dropped off into an adjacent canyon providing winding technical hills, dry washes and a purpose-built single track.

AHRMA’s new Off-Road Director, Terry McPhillips, reported, “I was excited to be a part of a great weekend of racing, hats off to our volunteers who helped pull this together!” With an impressive hill-side period correct scrambles style vintage motocross track AHRMA racers didn’t disappoint the fan-lined fence as they each raced to grab the hole-shot with the ultimate goal of being first to the checkered flag.

Spectators were treated to much more than an amazing weekend of historic racing, as the glue that brought the festival together, was affectionately termed the “Fun Zone” and was headed up by Laroque Motorsports. The Friday night 1AHRMA party featured a “Slow Race” sponsored by the California Motorcycle Safety Program. Scott Stewart was wearing a big smile as he received a $250 check for being the slowest rider in one of the most hotly contested races of the weekend! The Hagerty Vintage Motorcycle Bike Show brought museum quality machines along with knowledgeable owners glad to share the history and glamour of these machines. Additionally, the Fun Zone provided access to racing legends during autograph sessions, a July visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, tools to entice and educate the younger crowd with the addition of Strider Bike and the “Mimi and Moto” book characters as well as a vintage motorcycle movie night.

“With a great initial reception by the public and our dedication to constantly improving and growing the festival atmosphere, we are looking forward to spreading the vintage motorcycle gospel to the masses and keeping our passion for the old bikes alive while moving into the next millennium,” stated Maruice Laroque.

If you missed this year’s AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey, we invite you to mark your calendar for 2023 as AHRMA will return next year July 14-16.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With about 3,300 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

Signed Quartararo Helmet Being Auctioned To Benefit Canadian Rider Fund

July 22, 2022

Canadian Superbike racers (from left) Ben Young, Alex Dumas, and Trevor Daley join series announcer Frank Wood in announcing the Canadian Rider Fund raffle of a Fabio Quartararo-autographed Scorpion race helmet, at Atlantic Motorsport Park. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK/PMP.