Harley-Davidson Launches Enthusiast Collection

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

Harley-Davidson Launches Enthusiast Collection

NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON ENTHUSIAST COLLECTION INSPIRED BY STORIES AND EXPERIENCES WITHIN THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON COMMUNITY

2022 G.I. Enthusiast Collection Celebrates Service of U.S. Armed Forces Members

MILWAUKEE (June 21, 2022) – Harley-Davidson today introduced its new Enthusiast Collection, an ongoing series of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles featuring special-edition paint created to celebrate the unique backgrounds and special interests of riders within the Harley-Davidson community. Each Enthusiast Collection design will be launched annually, available in limited quantities across a curated selection of motorcycle models.

“The Enthusiast Collection motorcycles are inspired by Harley-Davidson riders and their unique stories,” explained Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO Harley-Davidson. “Harley-Davidson is proud to launch this program with the G.I. Enthusiast Collection, which honors the legacy of Harley-Davidson riders who have served or actively serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.”

To commemorate the launch, two U.S. veterans, Gary Wetzel, and Brian “Amarok” Critton, will be awarded G.I. Enthusiast Collection models. Wetzel is a Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic actions in the Vietnam War after his U.S. Army helicopter was shot down and came under heavy enemy fire. Severely wounded, he continued to fight back and help other injured soldiers. He is an avid Harley-Davidson rider and veteran issues activist. Critton served for a decade in the U.S. Army, including a tour of duty in Iraq, and now is active with veterans service organizations like Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP). In March, he was riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to a Muay Thai meeting in Jacksonville designed to help combat veterans deal with PTSD when he saw smoke billowing from a vehicle involved in a three-vehicle accident that happened moments earlier. His instincts turned into action while others watched as he pulled a woman from the burning car. These two Harley-Davidson riders exemplify the spirit of Harley-Davidson Enthusiasts.

2022 Enthusiast Collection Features

The G.I. Enthusiast Collection is draped in stunning Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint, an all-new color created specifically for this collection, and completed with service-inspired graphics. The G.I. Enthusiast Collection is available only as factory-installed for the Pan America™ 1250 Special and Tri Glide® Ultra models, in limited quantities primarily for the U.S. market.

“The new Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint pays homage to the Olive Drab paint used on Harley-Davidson WLA models,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “This color features a metallic effect resulting in a subtle gold highlight, allowing the color travel to be more dramatic and show off the shape of the surfacing.

“The tank graphic celebrates the iconic white five-point star, which was used during WWII on military vehicles,” adds Richards. “The tank graphic also features a stenciled ‘H-D’ and a location of Milwaukee, Wisconsin abbreviated, inspired from the spec tags found on government-issued military equipment. The stenciled approach is a treatment often found on military vehicles as lettering was frequently done in the field. Here we’re calling out the birthplace of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company and the original WLA model.”

Pan America™ 1250 Special G.I. (Enthusiast Collection)

A rugged, powerful, technologically advanced motorcycle powered by the liquid-cooled V-Twin Revolution® Max 1250 engine, the Pan America model is designed from the ground up to inspire rider confidence and fuel the spirit of adventure on and off-road. Since its launch in February 2021, the Pan America 1250 Special model is the #1 selling adventure touring motorcycle in North America and was named Best Adventure Bike and Motorcycle of the Year by Motorcycle.com. The Pan America 1250 Special G.I. model will have a U.S. MSRP of $20,799.

Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint

Enthusiast Collection logo on front of fairing

White Star with H-D graphic on both sides of the fuel tank

Mechanical features identical to Pan America 1250 Special model

Tri Glide® Ultra G.I. (Enthusiast Collection)

A long-haul American touring trike, the Tri Glide® Ultra model is designed to go the distance with comfort, torque and style. Features include Tomahawk™ custom wheels, premium Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system, trunk and King Tour-Pak® luggage carrier, Daymaker® LED headlamp, standard Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson and the Twin Cooled™ Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine. The G.I. Enthusiast Collection Tri Glide Ultra model will have a U.S. MSRP of $38,099.

Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint

Special graphics

Enthusiast Collection and Harley-Davidson on rear of Tour Pak luggage carrier

White Star with H-D graphic on tank sides

White Star on trunk door

Mechanical features identical to Tri Glide Ultra model

American Flat Track: Series Heading To Lima Half-Mile June 25

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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American Flat Track: Series Heading To Lima Half-Mile June 25

Lima Half-Mile Promises to Push Progressive AFT Pilots to the Limit

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 21, 2022) – The 2022 Progressive American Flat Track tour will arrive at one of its most challenging and revered events this weekend with the Mission Lima Half-Mile at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio, on Saturday, June 25.

The pea-gravel cushion Half-Mile pushes competitors to their physical limit while testing their strategic acumen as well, reliably offering a variety of line choices while delivering outstanding racing.

Reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) has proven himself a master of the demanding battleground time and again. The current points leader has reigned supreme at the Lima Half-Mile on five separate occasions, dating back to his very first premier-class victory way back in 2005.

That sterling track record is fitting too, as Mees is not just one of the most successful riders in the event’s history, he and his wife Nichole also serve as the race’s promoters. However, that hasn’t prevented the track from biting even him on occasion, including the time Mees failed to make the Main Event in 2017, as well as last season when he mustered just an eighth-place finish while combating an early-season injury.

While Mees struggled here a year ago, fellow Indian Wrecking Crew member Briar Bauman (No. 3 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) shined, earning his second victory of the ‘21 season. That wasn’t his first win at Lima, as Bauman actually earned his first win aboard a twin-cylinder at the track back in 2017. He’ll look to pull off a similar trick this year at a venue that’s well suited to his riding style and phenomenal fitness.

While the Mees/Bauman rivalry has dominated headlines for the last three-plus seasons, they currently find themselves in the midst of an intense four-way battle for supremacy that also involves Estenson Racing Yamaha teammates Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) and JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who currently ranked second and fourth in the points, respectively.

Daniels and Beach have made history in recent weeks while claiming two of the last three races. If either rider manages to add another victory this weekend, it’ll be yet another milestone with Yamaha still seeking its first-ever win at the Lima Half-Mile regardless of category.

Mission Roof Systems teammates Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) flanked Bauman on the box here a year ago. Robinson also happens to be a past winner of the race, while Ohio native Vanderkooi would love to earn his maiden premier-class victory in his home state.

Another story to keep tabs on is the performance of Brandon Price (No. 92 Pro One Industries/Mission Foods KTM Duke 890). Price, who has raced an Indian and a Kawasaki already this season, will compete aboard a KTM Duke 890 less than a month after James Rispoli (No. 43 Wally Brown Racing/Haversack KTM 890 Duke) demonstrated the potential of the platform with a podium performance as a Mission Production Twins Challenge entrant at the Red Mile.

Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Following the lightning fast start of Nick Armstrong (No. 60 Competitive Racing Frames/Lessley Brothers Yamaha MT-07), the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines title fight has trended in the direction of a two-rider showdown featuring defending champion Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07) and points leader Jesse Janisch (No. 33 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R).

While those two have separated themselves from the pack in the points race, it’s been a different story in any given race. There have been five different winners in just six races this season, including last weekend’s debut winner, Billy Ross (No. 109 Mission Foods/Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R).

One rider still looking for their first victory of 2022 is last year’s Lima Half-Mile winner, Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650). The Royal Enfield appears to be more potent than ever but misfortune has prevented Lewis from finishing on the podium yet this season. A return to Lima could be exactly what’s needed to get the program back on track.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

Kody Kopp (No. 12 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) was in commanding form at the Laconia Short Track, building up his Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER title lead with a thoroughly dominating performance to claim his third win of the young season.

Second-ranked Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) and third-ranked Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) – who aims to return to action post-surgery in Lima – will need to strike back in a significant way and soon in order to keep Kopp in their sights. Fortunately for them, both riders were podium performers at Lima a year ago.

2019 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles champion Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) is just a further two points adrift of Whale and has both the time and talent required to claw his way back into the championship chase.

While the usual suspects lock down their positions at the top of the order, any number of riders have threatened to break through with a win of their own in ‘22, including the likes of Trent Lowe (No. 48 Mission Foods/Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda CRF450R), Chase Saathoff (No. 106 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R), and Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F).

And don’t count out Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Voodoo Ranger Honda CRF450R), who won the Mission Production Twins Main and podiumed in Parts Unlimited AFT Singles on a single evening at Lima in 2019.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained off the track as well, including the Mission Booth, Drag Specialties display, and numerous other vendors, a variety of food and beverage options, the Kids Zone, and a vintage bike show located behind the main grandstand.

Visit https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3765 to reserve your tickets today. General Admission tickets are available for just $30 with kids 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult. Reserved Grandstand and Premium Reserved Grandstand tickets are available for just $5 and $10 more, respectively.

Paddock Access Upgrades are also available for purchase, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Fans who want an all-inclusive night of spectating can purchase the VIP Experience, which includes a Premium Reserved Grandstand ticket, Paddock Access Upgrade, food and beverage, and access to the VIP line for shirts and programs for $125.

Gates will open for fans at 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 6:10 p.m. ET/3:10 p.m. PT ahead of the day’s Main Event program. You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities on FansChoice.tv. FansChoice.tv provides free-to-view livestreaming of Practice and Qualifying. FansChoice.tv subscribers will then be able to watch the drama unfold from Opening Ceremonies through the Semis, Main Events, and podium celebrations. FansChoice.tv offers two subscription options, granting unlimited access to premium AFT content. Monthly subscriptions start at just $7.99, while a six-month subscription is available for $44.99.

The Mission Lima Half-Mile will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, July 3, at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m, PT, including exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and expert commentary.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.

MotoGP: Razgatlioglu Tests YZR-M1 At MotorLand Aragon

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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MotoGP: Razgatlioglu Tests YZR-M1 At MotorLand Aragon

Razgatlıoğlu Enjoys “Very Positive” Maiden Outing on Yamaha YZR-M1 at Aragón

Reigning FIM Superbike World Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu completed his first-ever outing on the Yamaha YZR-M1 during a one-day private MotoGP test at the MotorLand Aragón circuit today.

After taking his first WorldSBK victory of the 2022 campaign at Misano, the Turkish rider switched from his Yamaha R1 to the YZR-M1, riding 40 laps of the Teruel venue in sweltering conditions. The long straight between Turns 15 and 16, together with a combination of fast turns and slower sections around the 5.078 km MotorLand Aragón circuit, allowed Razgatlıoğlu to experience all aspects of the Yamaha YZR-M1’s performance.

The 25-year-old began the day with a 12-lap run to build up an understanding of the bike and the Michelin tyres, completing shorter runs thereafter, as the Yamaha MotoGP Test Team made set-up adjustments to the bike based on Razgatlıoğlu’s feedback and analysis of the data.

On hand to help Razgatlıoğlu gain confidence and speed on the Yamaha YZR-M1 was Yamaha MotoGP Test Rider Cal Crutchlow, whose lap times the 2021 WorldSBK champion used as a benchmark during the test.

Unfortunately, the test was cut short due to a heavy rain shower ahead of the late afternoon session, which didn’t allow Razgatlıoğlu the chance to further improve on his promising early pace.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu

This was my first day on the Yamaha M1 MotoGP bike and it felt completely different to my R1. More horsepower, different electronics, seamless gearbox, all of which is completely new for me. With every lap I learned more, because after the world superbike it’s not so easy to adapt to the MotoGP machine. Fortunately, I had Cal Crutchlow on hand to offer advice and he was able to help me a lot. The bike feels good, especially on the straight where it’s very fast, and it was interesting to experience the carbon brakes. The conditions were really hot today, so we stuck to doing five or six-lap runs only after the initial run of 12 laps to get a first feeling for the bike. When I watch the MotoGP bikes on television here at Aragon you can see it is a bit bumpy, and I can feel it here today. It’s not so bad, you have to keep the gas open to ride through the bumps, because if you close then it becomes more unstable. Overall, a very positive test, even if it was cut short by rain this afternoon, which meant I didn’t get quite as many laps in as I’d have liked. I really enjoyed riding the MotoGP bike, so many thanks to Yamaha for allowing me this opportunity.

AHRMA: Race Results From New Jersey Motorsports Park

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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AHRMA: Race Results From New Jersey Motorsports Park

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

RRW 2022 New Jersey Motorsports Park - Weekend Results

Bridgestone Names New Race Program Manager For Motorcycle Tires

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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Bridgestone Names New Race Program Manager For Motorcycle Tires

Bridgestone Motorcycle Announces Warren Dunham as New Race Program Manager for Motorcycle Tires

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) today announced Warren Dunham as the new Race Program Manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires.

Dunham has spent 31 years at Bridgestone in the Sales Engineering Department as a Senior Field Engineer. In this new position as Race Program Manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires for the North American market he is responsible for managing all motorcycle road racing programs for the U.S. and Canada.

This new role is a perfect fit for Dunham because of his experience with a wide variety of motorsports engineering. He has worked with Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), AMA Pro Racing: Supercross, Motocross and Road Racing, Pikes Peak Hill Climb, Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART), CIK/FIA Karting, MotoGP, Bagger Racing League and American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA).

“I have always enjoyed working in motorsports, but motorcycle road racing is my passion. I am so thrilled to have this opportunity to be part of Bridgestone supplying premium road racing tires to the North American market,” said Dunham. “We have a lot of exciting plans for the near future and look forward to showing the road racing community.”

“Bridgestone Motorcycle is proud to welcome Warren Dunham to our team,” said Jared Williams, general manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire Business in the United States and Canada. “Warren is well known and respected within the motorsports community and he is the perfect addition to our team to help us expand our commitment to motorcycle road racing.”

For road racing sponsorship opportunities please reach out to Warren Dunham at [email protected].

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 50,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

Triumph Acquires Electric Motorcycle Manufacturer OSET Bikes

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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Triumph Acquires Electric Motorcycle Manufacturer OSET Bikes

TRIUMPH ANNOUNCES THE ACQUISITION OF THE ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE MANUFACTURER OSET BIKES

Triumph announces the acquisition of the electric motorcycle manufacturer OSET Bikes, as part of their wider plan of offering a full range of off-road motorcycles and to nurture a new generation of motorcycle riders.

Ahead of the launch of the Motocross and Enduro range, Triumph Motorcycles takes another exciting step in the off-road world through the acquisition of OSET Bikes, a leader in the world of children’s electric, off-road motorcycles. Started in 2004 by Ian Smith, who wanted to build an electric off-road bike for his son Oliver, OSET has been setting the benchmark in its segment for the past 18 years. OSET has sold more than 40,000 bikes globally that feature their inhouse developed electric powertrains.

The acquisition of OSET sits within Triumph’s strategy of entering the off-road segment, announced in 2020, and provides both companies with the opportunity to share and benefit from each other’s knowledge and experience in their respective segments, enabling both brands to grow internationally in parallel.

Triumph’s philosophy, For The Ride, played an important role in the acquisition of OSET as it enables the Hinckley-based brand to inspire future generations of riders by providing them with the perfect starting point to develop their passion and dreams. OSET Bikes offers products that are suitable for any rider, starting from 3 years old and upwards.

Nick Bloor – Triumph CEO

“We are excited about the opportunity of joining forces with OSET Bikes: a dynamic brand that has been encouraging children into motorcycling for many years and have been at the forefront of developing electric trials bikes for fun and competition. Whilst the two brands will continue working independently, Triumph and OSET will collaborate on new state-of-the-art products to inspire young riders into off-road riding, across the segments that Triumph and OSET will have a presence in, drawing on their respective strengths to build the best bikes in the world.”

Ian Smith – OSET Bikes CEO

“When we built that first ‘garage’ bike for my son, Oliver, I had no idea that it would lead to this moment. We are all very excited for what the future holds for OSET as part of the Triumph family.

The OSET brand will remain as OSET and will continue to serve the trials and off-road motorcycling community. We are now better positioned to develop and innovate across our range, while enjoying the security of scale and market position Triumph can offer OSET”

California Roadrace Association (CRA) Racing At Laguna Seca June 25-26

David Swarts

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June 21, 2022

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California Roadrace Association (CRA) Racing At Laguna Seca June 25-26

California RoadRace Association brings club level racing back to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Salinas, CA – Club-level racing action is returning to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the first time in decades! On the weekend of June 25-26, 2022, California RoadRace Association will be hosting Round 2 of its series at the iconic circuit. There are race classes available for just about everyone: 400s, Twins, 600s, and 1000s. For most club racers, this will be their first opportunity to race down the legendary corkscrew.

The action starts Saturday, June 25th, with practice and qualifying sessions, and jumps into racing soon after. The day’s races include longer lap count GT races: 16 laps for 400 and Twins races; 20 laps for the 600 and 1000 GT races.

CRA has also arranged for a dinner on Saturday evening sponsored by Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka, Motorsport Exotica, and Maria Cid Farmers Insurance Agency. Salinas City BBQ will be on site serving up some of their best dishes. Everyone WITH A WRISTBAND will be permitted to partake in the festivities. Wristbands for non-racers can be purchased at registration. CRA will also be hosting a karaoke contest during dinner with prizes awarded based on audience response.

Sunday features the normal CRA Schedule of eight-lap sprint races. Expert racers registered for the Riderzlaw Gold Cup (CRA’s 12-lap premier race) will get the opportunity to experience a “Pro-Start”: A sighting lap, grid up with stands/warmers/umbrella girls, on-track interviews, pictures, warm-up lap and then the race. “We love having the Pro Starts. But get your pit crew ready for this as it is not a one-man job!” said Dustin Coyner, CRA Co-Founder.

Several of the core classes are already filling up, with 40 registered racers in multiple classes, including the Riderzlaw Gold Cup which currently has a waiting list. “It’s really exciting to see a waiting list already for the stacked Gold Cup Race!” said Gigi Chow, CRA Co-Founder.

To sign up for Round 2 or for more information on CRA, visit their website at www.race-cra.com. Get licensed and let’s go racing. #areyoucra #racecra #iamcra

CRA would like to thank their sponsors for their continued support:

Dunlop, Riderz Law, Feel Like a Pro, CTML Consultants, Motorsport Exotica, VnM Sport, Track Daz, Let’s Ride Track Days, Carters @ the Track, Fun Track Dayz, 61 DTC (Pirelli), Racers Edge Performance (Dunlop), Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka, Fosters Freeze (Sanger, CA), Blud Lubricants, Bellissimoto, AZAD Wheels, Action Sports Canopies, Boxo USA, Captit Performance, ASV, KYT Helmets, Thermal Technology, Suspension Matters, #376 Design, Cinepixel Productions, The Heights Restaurant & Bar, ChaChaCha Motorsports, Maria Cid Insurance Agency, and 844-MY-MOTOW.

Data Doesn’t Support Media’s Flight Panic

David Swarts

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June 20, 2022

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Data Doesn’t Support Media’s Flight Panic

FIRST PERSON/OPINION:

By David Swarts

Call me old, but I listen to news on the radio every morning as I drive or ride to the Roadracing World offices. I usually listen to KNX, a CBS affiliate, which can be found at 1070 AM and 97.1 FM here in Southern California.

One of the lead local news stories on Monday morning was a rash of flight delays and cancellations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) over the Father’s Day weekend with expectations for more delays and cancellations this summer due to high travel demand and staffing shortages currently being experienced by the airlines.

This week I’m flying from Southern California to the Pacific Northwest for the MotoAmerica event at Ridge Motorsports Park, so having already experienced one cancelled flight this year, the report caught my attention. In fact, I started looking at reserving a rental car to drive the 1,148 miles to Ridge Motorsports Park as a back-up plan in case something happens to my flight.

Before doing that, however, I decided to investigate the situation with airline flight delays and cancellations for myself. And low and behold, I found KNX’s report, and many other similar reports recently, to be exaggerated.

On an average day, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) handles about 45,000 flights.

On Sunday, July 19, Father’s Day here in the United States, there were 6,284 flights delayed and 922 cancelled, according to FlightAware.com, the same source cited by KNX.

Of an average of 45,000 flights, that means 13.96% were delayed and 2.0% were cancelled.

As of 10:30 a.m. Pacific Time Monday, June 20, 1,857 flights nationwide had been delayed and 328 had been cancelled. That means 4.1% have been delayed and 0.73% have been cancelled so far today.

Far from being headline news and, in my opinion, misleading.

Considering the chances of my flight getting me to Washington currently range between 98-99.27%, I’ll take those odds versus spending 18 hours driving there.

Digging deeper into the on-time performance numbers provided by the FAA, flight delays nationwide and cancellations are up so far in 2022 when compared to 2021, and “air carrier delays” caused by staffing shortages and fewer flights are the most likely culprit. But when comparing 2022 data with pre-pandemic flight performance in 2019, delays are not up very much, 81% vs. 77% and cancellations are actually down from 1.99% to 1.55%.

What should potential air travelers do?

As an experienced traveler with about 1.5 million miles flown over the last 20 years, I suggest taking the earliest possible flights of the day. Air traffic delays have ripple effects and only get worse as a day goes on. I suggest flying with major airlines in and out of major airports so there are other flights available in case something does happen to yours. And I strongly suggest signing up for flight notifications from your airline so you can quickly get alerts in the event there are delays or a cancellation of your flight.

And as a news consumer, if you see or hear a news report that potentially affects you directly, I recommend doing five minutes of research before making major changes to your plans.

American Matsudaira On Moto5 Podium In Spain

David Swarts

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June 20, 2022

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American Matsudaira On Moto5 Podium In Spain

American Kensei Matsudaira Takes First Podium in Moto5 Category in Spanish Championship

June 18-19, 2022

In only his second race in the category, 11-year-old Japanese-American Kensei Matsudaira took his first podium finish in the Spanish Cuna de Campeones Moto5 championship at the Zuera International Circuit, in Zaragoza, Spain.

The qualifying sessions were held on Saturday, with Kensei achieving his best qualifying result in Spain of 5th out of 19 riders, +0.6s from pole position.

In Race One, Kensei got a great start from the second row and by the exit of the second corner was leading the race. Kensei led the race for more than half of the race while battling for position with the top group of four riders. On the eighth, lap Kensei crashed in Turn Two while side by side with two other riders, leaving him unable to rejoin the race.

Repairs were made to the bike and Kensei was able to get another great start in Race Two, where he was able to move up into second position and from there, fought with the same top group of four riders until finally taking the checkered flag in third place, seven seconds behind the race winner, the best finish of Kensei’s Spanish racing career.

“Honestly, I felt that Race One was better because I felt so good on the bike and had so much confidence with it, leading the race and fighting for the win,” Kensei said, after the races. “The DNF result was obviously super disappointing, but it showed everyone including myself that I can fight to win here. In the second race I didn’t quite have the same speed and confidence. In the end I couldn’t keep up with the race winner, but I was still able to fight at the top and to finally get a podium here in Spain feels so good. I want to say a big thank you to my team, JR and Juan who believed in me from when I first started in Spain and really helped me to get here today.”

Kensei now returns to the US to race at Round Two of the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul championship, to be held June 24-25 at the Ridge Motorsports Park, in Shelton, Washington. He currently leads the 160 category championship and sits second in the 190 championship.

Round 3 of the Cuna de Campeones Moto 5 championship will be held at Kotarr Circuit in Burgos, Spain on July 17, 2022.

Kensei would like to thank all of his sponsors for their support to help him race both at home and abroad:

American Racing Team & Academy, Fresh N Lean, Evike.com, Shoei Helmets, Dave Designs, AGV Sport, VNM Sport, D.I.D Chain, Galfer USA, Yoshimura R&D, Suspension Matters, TechSpec, The Starting Grid, Moto Tecnica, Mad Labs Minimoto, 73 Moto Parts, Bickle Racing, Vortex Racing, Landers Racing, Boyko Racing, Apex Racing Center, Live 100 Moto, DRT Racing, Karen E. Ott Photography, Hans King, Moto Survival School, California Superbike School, and Toni Elias School USA.

Results - Zuera (Moto 5 Races)

NEMRR: Narbonne Wins 99th Loudon Classic

David Swarts

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June 20, 2022

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NEMRR: Narbonne Wins 99th Loudon Classic

Shane Narbonne wins the 99th annual Loudon Classic at New Hampshire Motor Speedway

Loudon, NH – The 99th annual Loudon Classic, the longest-running motorcycle race in America, capped off a successful Laconia Motorcycle Week with some of the most intense competition that the event has seen in years.

Shane Narbonne, of Tyngsboro, MA, lived up to his title of “King of the Classic” as he became the first 10-time winner of the prestigious event. The main challengers for Narbonne were four-time Classic winner Scott Greenwood, of Dunbarton, NH, and Tyler Sweeney, of Derry, NH. The crowd had anticipated the Greenwood-Narbonne battle, but Sweeney showed impressive speed as he challenged for the front after a multi-year hiatus from road racing. All three of the front runners were riding Yamaha YZF-R6’s.

After a beautiful holeshot by Triumph-mounted Ian Beam, Narbonne took over the lead on lap two. A small mistake allowed Greenwood to take the lead on lap six of the 20-lap feature, and the race was on!

Narbonne recovered quickly and clawed his way back to Greenwood by lap eight, probing several times as he searched for a way back to the front. With six laps remaining, Narbonne made his move on the brakes into Turn One and then put his head down and set the fastest laps of the race. Greenwood never gave up, but in the end Narbonne was able to extend his lead to just over one second to claim a hard-earned victory.

On the podium, Narbonne revealed challenges that he had on his path to victory, saying, “This was a tough one because we blew our motor on Friday. We had a bunch of people help us tear the engine down and really help to get us out for this race. We have such a great racing family here at the track, and I look forward to chasing title #11 next year.“

Narbonne also recognized the efforts of his father, Al Narbonne, on this Father’s Day weekend for his many years of racing support.

In the Amateur ranks of the Classic, Michael Lee was the top performer as he won the Amateur division and worked his way all the way up to 15th overall. Micheal Guarino and David Mink rounded out the Amateur podium with all three of the top Amateurs finishing in the top 20 overall.

The other purse-paying events for the 99th annual Loudon Classic were the Unlimited GP and Lightweight GP classes. In the Unlimited GP class, veteran racer Eric Wood took the victory over David Dayon and Scott Briody in an all-Kawasaki ZX-10 podium. Wood grabbed the holeshot on his Penguin Racing/Woodcraft-sponsored machine and cut the fastest laps of the weekend, dipping down in to the 1:11 range, on route to the win.

In the Seacoast Sport Cycle Lightweight GP class, NEMRR #1 plate holder Rick Doucette scored the win over two young up-and-coming riders. The Plaistow Powersports-sponsored Doucette took his the lead from the Ducati of Adam Guyer and extended his lead to a comfortable eight-second gap by the end. 17-year-old Jacob Crossman was making his debut in the Lightweight GP class on his new Penguin Racing/ Seacoast Sport Cycle Aprilia RS 660 and made an impressive charge from the middle of the pack to claim the final podium (and purse-paying) spot for this event.

The Loudon Classic is hosted by Northeast Motorcycle Road Racing Inc and was made possible in part by the support of series title sponsor Mayhew Tools, a New England manufacturer of top-quality tools for professional technicians. 2023 will be a the 100th running of both the Loudon Classic and the renowned Laconia Motorcycle Week. This landmark event will run from June 10th-18th next summer will be filled with special features to give motorcyclists of all ages the opportunity to be part of making motorcycle history!

Harley-Davidson Launches Enthusiast Collection

June 21, 2022

A Harley-Davidson Tri Glide® Ultra G.I. (right) and a Harley-Davidson Pan America™ 1250 Special G.I. (left). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON ENTHUSIAST COLLECTION INSPIRED BY STORIES AND EXPERIENCES WITHIN THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON COMMUNITY

2022 G.I. Enthusiast Collection Celebrates Service of U.S. Armed Forces Members

MILWAUKEE (June 21, 2022) – Harley-Davidson today introduced its new Enthusiast Collection, an ongoing series of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles featuring special-edition paint created to celebrate the unique backgrounds and special interests of riders within the Harley-Davidson community. Each Enthusiast Collection design will be launched annually, available in limited quantities across a curated selection of motorcycle models.

“The Enthusiast Collection motorcycles are inspired by Harley-Davidson riders and their unique stories,” explained Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO Harley-Davidson. “Harley-Davidson is proud to launch this program with the G.I. Enthusiast Collection, which honors the legacy of Harley-Davidson riders who have served or actively serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.”

To commemorate the launch, two U.S. veterans, Gary Wetzel, and Brian “Amarok” Critton, will be awarded G.I. Enthusiast Collection models. Wetzel is a Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic actions in the Vietnam War after his U.S. Army helicopter was shot down and came under heavy enemy fire. Severely wounded, he continued to fight back and help other injured soldiers. He is an avid Harley-Davidson rider and veteran issues activist. Critton served for a decade in the U.S. Army, including a tour of duty in Iraq, and now is active with veterans service organizations like Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP). In March, he was riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to a Muay Thai meeting in Jacksonville designed to help combat veterans deal with PTSD when he saw smoke billowing from a vehicle involved in a three-vehicle accident that happened moments earlier. His instincts turned into action while others watched as he pulled a woman from the burning car. These two Harley-Davidson riders exemplify the spirit of Harley-Davidson Enthusiasts.

2022 Enthusiast Collection Features

The G.I. Enthusiast Collection is draped in stunning Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint, an all-new color created specifically for this collection, and completed with service-inspired graphics. The G.I. Enthusiast Collection is available only as factory-installed for the Pan America™ 1250 Special and Tri Glide® Ultra models, in limited quantities primarily for the U.S. market.

“The new Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint pays homage to the Olive Drab paint used on Harley-Davidson WLA models,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “This color features a metallic effect resulting in a subtle gold highlight, allowing the color travel to be more dramatic and show off the shape of the surfacing.

“The tank graphic celebrates the iconic white five-point star, which was used during WWII on military vehicles,” adds Richards. “The tank graphic also features a stenciled ‘H-D’ and a location of Milwaukee, Wisconsin abbreviated, inspired from the spec tags found on government-issued military equipment. The stenciled approach is a treatment often found on military vehicles as lettering was frequently done in the field. Here we’re calling out the birthplace of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company and the original WLA model.”

Pan America™ 1250 Special G.I. (Enthusiast Collection)

A rugged, powerful, technologically advanced motorcycle powered by the liquid-cooled V-Twin Revolution® Max 1250 engine, the Pan America model is designed from the ground up to inspire rider confidence and fuel the spirit of adventure on and off-road. Since its launch in February 2021, the Pan America 1250 Special model is the #1 selling adventure touring motorcycle in North America and was named Best Adventure Bike and Motorcycle of the Year by Motorcycle.com. The Pan America 1250 Special G.I. model will have a U.S. MSRP of $20,799.

Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint

Enthusiast Collection logo on front of fairing

White Star with H-D graphic on both sides of the fuel tank

Mechanical features identical to Pan America 1250 Special model

Tri Glide® Ultra G.I. (Enthusiast Collection)

A long-haul American touring trike, the Tri Glide® Ultra model is designed to go the distance with comfort, torque and style. Features include Tomahawk™ custom wheels, premium Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system, trunk and King Tour-Pak® luggage carrier, Daymaker® LED headlamp, standard Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson and the Twin Cooled™ Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine. The G.I. Enthusiast Collection Tri Glide Ultra model will have a U.S. MSRP of $38,099.

Mineral Green Denim Deluxe paint

Special graphics

Enthusiast Collection and Harley-Davidson on rear of Tour Pak luggage carrier

White Star with H-D graphic on tank sides

White Star on trunk door

Mechanical features identical to Tri Glide Ultra model

American Flat Track: Series Heading To Lima Half-Mile June 25

June 21, 2022

Action from the Lima Half-Mile in 2021. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.