Video: Army Of Darkness Buys, Modifies, And Rides A TM EN 300FI

David Swarts

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February 17, 2023

Video: Army Of Darkness Buys, Modifies, And Rides A TM EN 300FI

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming fell in love with TM when he and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM factory in Italy in April 2022. Upon arriving home he found a coveted 2022 300 FI 2T for sale and snapped it up. After a couple little teething problems, he’s got it set up and is out in the woods.

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM Racing factory in Pesaro Italy in April 2022 and you can find a series of videos about that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0AEu…

TM Racing makes arguably the most exquisite racing motorcycles for MX, Enduro and Supermoto in the world. They also made a championship winning Moto3 road race bike!

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

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

AIMExpo 2023: Is Moto Trainer The Best Motorcycle Simulator Yet? (Video)

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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AIMExpo 2023: Is Moto Trainer The Best Motorcycle Simulator Yet? (Video)

By Michael Gougis

One of the busiest exhibits at the AIMExpo 2023 show displayed the Italian-made Moto Trainer, the official MotoGP simulator. As it was configured at the show, the trainer had an Aprilia RSV4 mounted up and was set up to deliver braking, throttle, and lean input resistance. Visitors got to experience a virtual lap of Mugello while leaning, braking and accelerating on a full-size, full-weight motorcycle.

The main component of the simulator is a rail which any full-size motorcycle can be mounted to. The rail allows the motorcycle to be leaned 60 degrees from vertical. A turnbuckle linkage at the front adjusts the damping to the rider’s weight. Sensors are mounted on the throttle, so when the rider twists the grip the machine starts to stand up. Other sensors are mounted to the front forks, so when the rider hits the front brakes, the machine dips forward. Other sensor options include the shifter and the rear brake.

It’s hard not to dismiss the device as a mere video game. A company spokesperson said that 70% of the units sold in the U.S. are bought by private parties, meaning that they likely are used as gaming platforms. The company also says that it can be used as a trainer to simulate the act of riding a sportbike (or off-road machine), and to learn new tracks. The need for a realistic simulator for professional road racers is evident from the widespread use of simulators in four-wheel racing. Top-level teams have dedicated simulator drivers who do nothing but put in laps on incredibly sophisticated devices, performing virtual testing of components and honing their skills. With testing limited in most professional road racing series, an accurate simulator could be a decisive performance edge for a top rider or team, allowing them to turn virtual laps to add to real-world testing inputs.

Roadracing World being Roadracing World, we put Robertino “Tino” Pietri, former Moto2 and AMA Pro road racer, onto the exhibit for a few virtual laps around Mugello. The physical exertion required to operate the trainer was evident–Pietri had arm pump after riding the simulator.

It is not perfect. The device does not yet allow for counter-steering, so the riding inputs are almost completely done with the legs. Without the G-forces involved in riding, braking and acceleration inputs do not replicate the forces felt on a motorcycle in motion. And the arms get a workout not from steering the machine, but from holding the body in position when the motorcycle is leaned over, as the centripetal forces that push the rider into the machine and relieve the arms of carrying the rider’s weight while cornering are absent.

“When you go to a track day, what I see is the principles of riding a motorcycle, body position, how to use the brakes, how to use the rear brake, how to move yourself, that’s hard to learn to do while you are in movement,” Pietri said. “A big number of riders are not doing that correctly. I think this machine can give you a lot of those principles–how to position yourself on the bike, how to grab the handlebars. You can practice that in a static situation without the risk of a crash, and I can tell you exactly what you should be doing.”

Prices start at $5,900 and range up to $18,990 for the official MotoGP Flagship model.

R.I.P. Dealership Co-Owner And Former Racer Nick Hayman

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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R.I.P. Dealership Co-Owner And Former Racer Nick Hayman

Dealership co-owner and former racer Nick Hayman died February 15. He was 64.

Hayman, who was originally from London, England, raced a Ducati in AFM and selected AMA Pro events from 2007 to 2012, scoring points in AMA Pro Supersport races.

In 2012, Hayman suffered two major crashes and head injuries, leading to him giving up racing.

He then focused on running the multi-line dealership he co-owned, Munroe Motors, in San Francisco, California.

His passing was announced on the Facebook page of Munroe Motors.

We will update this post as more information becomes available.

Nick Hayman in most recent times. Photo courtesy Munroe Motors.

AIMExpo 2023 Las Vegas: Bigger Beginner Bikes, Upping The Voltage

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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AIMExpo 2023 Las Vegas: Bigger Beginner Bikes, Upping The Voltage

By Michael Gougis

Electric powered- and electric-assisted machines were in full force at the AIMExpo 2023 in Las Vegas, and motorcycle industry stalwarts showed off new and improve models that make middleweight motorcycles more accessible to newer and beginning riders.

Suzuki debuted its new GSX-8S alongside its new V-STROM 800 DE Adventure machine, with the new 776cc Parallel-Twin models incorporating several features to make the bikes suitable for riders with minimal experience. Each comes with traction control, anti-lock brakes, assisted/slipper clutch mechanisms, and clutchless upshifting and downshifting.

“We wanted to come out and showcase some of our newest, latest products, and connect with the dealer network. We wanted to show people that Suzuki was still going to be a strong presence in the motorcycle industry in America,” said Chase Rastegar, Assistant Manager of National Sales and Dealer Development for Suzuki Motor USA.

Chase Rastegar, Assistant Manager of National Sales and Dealer Development for Suzuki Motor USA, with the company's new GSX-8S. The 776cc Twin has clutchless up- and down-shifting, traction control, ABS and a range of power modes. Photo by Michael Gougis. — Chase Rastegar, Assistant Manager of National Sales and Dealer Development for Suzuki Motor USA, with the company’s new GSX-8S. The 776cc Twin has clutchless up- and down-shifting, traction control, ABS and a range of power modes. Photo by Michael Gougis.

As the electronic rider aid technology introduced and refined in the heat of road racing competition matures, it becomes cheaper and easier for manufacturers to incorporate it into less expensive production models. Kawasaki’s Ninja 650 now comes with traction control. Triumph had on display at AIMEXPO its Speed Twin 900, which makes Middleweight Twin power in a package that comes with an assisted clutch, ABS, and traction control. Which means that larger models, more than ever before, are suitable for riders with minimal experience. In theory, this means that a new rider can, instead of purchasing a “starter” bike that they will outgrow, purchase a larger machine, hone their skills with a safety net of rider aids underneath them, and have a vehicle that will entertain them for years.

A 900cc engine used to be Superbike territory. Triumph's Speed Twin 900 has a power output that won't scare a beginner, anti-lock brakes, traction control and an assisted clutch. Photo by Michael Gougis. — A 900cc engine used to be Superbike territory. Triumph’s Speed Twin 900 has a power output that won’t scare a beginner, anti-lock brakes, traction control and an assisted clutch. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The other trend visible among the exhibits was, of course, the increasing prevalence of electric-powered and electric-assisted vehicles. Notable by their absence were the manufacturers of larger, more expensive, and higher-powered electric motorcycles like Zero and Energica.

Instead, the floors were packed with smaller machines that looked very much like minimalist off-road motorcycles; electric-assisted bicycles; and an assortment of other electric vehicles that promised fun, style, or some combination thereof. These motorcycles were not designed to be direct competitors to internal-combustion machines. Instead, they were designed to be fun, practical transportation for urban use and light commuting and off-roading. Top speeds were typically 70 mph and below, with range well under 100 miles, and designed primarily to be charged at home. But the price points were in line with entry-level gas-powered motorcycles, and in some cases well below.

Typical of the best-performing electric bikes at the show, the Land District retails for $8,200, has a top speed of 70 mph and will go 120 miles on a charge. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The electric-assisted pedal bicycle market has exploded in recent years, and there were several models on display. And JackRabbit exhibited what may become an entirely new category of electric vehicle–the micro eBike. For $999.99, a rider gets an electric motorcycle that weighs 24 pounds, has a range of about 10 miles, goes 20 mph and folds and disassembles into a package that is only seven inches wide. Honestly, the company may as well have had a big neon sign saying “Pit Bike” mounted above its booth!

JackRabbit CEO Jason Kenagy holds up the JackRabbit. It weighs 24 pounds, gets 10 miles on a charge and can carry a spare battery under the seat. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The Anza by Monday Motorbikes is an example of an electric-assisted pedal bicycle. Range of 30 to 40 miles, top speed between 25 and 28 mph depending on configuration, and a beginning retail price of $1,699. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The Mangosteen M1P, with 12-inch wheels, a top speed of 37 mph, a 40-mile range and a bling factor straight from the most radical chopper shops. Photo by Michael Gougis.

AIMExpo: Angelle Sampey Not Done Racing Pro Stock Dragbikes

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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AIMExpo: Angelle Sampey Not Done Racing Pro Stock Dragbikes

by Michael Gougis

Three-time National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Pro Stock National Champion Angelle Sampey says that while she lost her ride after winning only one race in 2022, her new goal is to own her own racing team and bring her career win total to an even 50.

“I’m not done yet. I don’t feel like I’m done. I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove,” Sampey, 52, told the audience at the keynote address for the AIMExpo in Las Vegas, Nevada. “I am going to prove everyone who says to me, ‘Isn’t it time to give this up?’ completely and utterly wrong. I scratched and clawed my way in there. And I made it happen by absolutely never taking no for an answer. It’s only fair that I chase my dreams, too.”

Sampey is the winningest female racer in history, with 46 NHRA race wins to her credit. She was still blindingly quick in 2022, setting a new track record in qualifying at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, California, ripping off a 6.703 second, 201.61 mph blast during the NHRA Auto Club Finals. It was the sixth time in 2022 that she was top qualifier, and the 59th time in her career that she finished qualifying on top of the charts.

But the single win over the course of the season did not meet the expectations of the Vance & Hines/Mission Suzuki team, and it did not meet her own high standards for herself, she told the audience. In retrospect, she put a lot of pressure on herself, and it led to jumped starts and slow starts, which plagued her throughout the season.

“I tried too hard. I got a lot of red lights. A lot of late lights. It was rough,” she said.

Losing a professional ride for a racer is a uniquely painful moment. Sampey was honest, brutally so, about how much it hurt. She shared the stage with a show version of the Hayabusa she raced in 2022, and when she walked on stage, she sat as far from it as she could – and that was deliberate, she told the crowd.

In a question-and-answer session with Kerry Graeber, Suzuki Motors of America, Inc. Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Sampey outlined her career on two wheels, which has been marked by a determination to overcome obstacles from the very beginning.

Sampey started racing at six years old, and the first obstacle was overcoming the family’s presumption that her brother would be the motorcycle racer in the family. But his desire to race waned, and hers grew. She would eventually own her own Suzuki GS1100 dragbike, which she sold to finance her attendance at the Frank Hawley drag racing school. This presented another obstacle, she says. Not only was she a female in a male-dominated sport, her size worried the school, which insisted that she visit them in person so they could decide whether they would accept her as a student.

Her description of trying to hustle a 400-horsepower dragbike down the track was analogous to the debates over minimum combined rider-machine weights in road racing. (WorldSBK recently decided to not impose such weight restrictions in the Superbike class.) Let alone the 3.5 Gs of force at the start, the near impossibility of steering a machine with a fat, flat slick on the rear, she was barely 100 pounds without gear. And that meant her dragbike frequently carried up to 80 pounds of lead to bring the rider-bike weight up to the class minimum of 625 pounds, she said.

“Here I was, the smallest, weakest rider in the field, on the heaviest machine out there,” she said. “I had to be faster with my corrections, make bigger corrections than the other riders.”

Angelle Sampey met with fans after her presentation, including this young one. Photo by Michael Gougis.

In 2010, Sampey retired and had a daughter, and thought her racing days were behind her. “I was in love with my life,” she said. Then a call came with an offer to return to racing, and she thought, “It was the most perfect opportunity to show my daughter what she was capable of,” she says.

Sampey did two part-time seasons before returning full-time in 2016. Despite being sick and weak, she won the Summernational Pro Stock race, her first win in nine years. She was in tears in the post-race interview (“I’m so sorry for the people who don’t like to see me cry, look away,” she said on camera, “I know it’s 42 wins, but it feels like the first win ever…”) and still is still emotional when she talks about that moment in her career and talking to her daughter afterward.

“I was telling her, mommy won the real trophy and she’s bringing it home for you. And she still has that trophy, under a sign that says dreams come true if you work for them,” Sampey says. Having a mom who is a National Champion drag racer wasn’t that big a deal for her daughter, Ava, Sampey says, until it was career day at school. After she appeared and talked about being a racer, she says, “Then, I was the cool mom!”

Sampey had a simple message to the dealers in attendance for the presentation: Don’t overlook the women who walk into the dealership. In an interview after her presentation, Sampey talked about riding a Harley-Davidson for two seasons, winning races, but when she would visit the local Harley dealership while traveling to events, the salespeople not only didn’t recognize her, they didn’t even greet her or introduce themselves to her.

“That’s been very tough for my whole career, to get people to believe in me,” she says. “That woman who comes through the door? She’s going to be scared to death to walk into that dealership and ask about a motorcycle because of that stigma. That someone isn’t going to take her seriously. That if she shows an interest in a GSX-R1000, someone’s going to say that she shouldn’t be on it. It’s changing, but it needs to change more. Don’t look past them. Speak to me, not my husband.”

Seen At The NEMRR Awards Banquet (Updated)

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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Seen At The NEMRR Awards Banquet (Updated)

NorthEast Motorcycle Road Racing (NEMRR) held its 2022 awards banquet February 11 in Concord, New Hampshire. Here are some photos from that event.

In each photo the class Champion is in the center, the Championship runner-up is on the right, and the third-place finisher is on the left, except where noted.

2022 NEMRR Overall Champion Rick Doucette. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

300 Supersport – Lukas Doucette, Rick Doucette, and Jason Downs. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

300 Superbike Champion Lukas Doucette (right) and runner-up Rick Doucette (left). Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

500 Superbike sponsored by Dunlop Talent Cup – Lukas Doucette, Renee Franco and Adam Muscaro. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

500 Supersport sponsored by Sportbike Track Gear – Shane Lewis, Renee Franco and Adam Muscaro. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 40 Lightweight sponsored by Innovative Motorsports – Brett Guyer, Rick Doucette and John Grush. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 40 Middleweight sponsored by Bay Radiology of Cape Cod – Tim Hogan, Scott Greenwood and Paul Duval. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Rookie of the Year sponsored by Vanson Leathers – Trase Boudreau. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 40 Lights Amateur Champion – Billy Saine. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 40 Middleweight Amateur Champion – Geoffrey Bonnard. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

GTL and Formula 50 Lights Amateur Champion – Stephen Biehl. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

The NEMRR Corner Marshall of the Year award went to Scott Kaplan. The award was accepted on his behalf by Scott Sewade. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 40 Unlimited sponsored by MTAG Pirelli – David Dayon and Peter Kates. Champion Eric Wood was unable to attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 50 Lightweight – John Grush, Brett Guyer and Rick Doucette. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

GTL sponsored by Robert Pease #74 – Rick Doucette, Brett Guyer and Eli Block. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

GTO sponsored by Bauce Racing – Nicholas Leighton, Scott Greenwood (and his son Greyson) and Bill Coolahan. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

NEMRR Executive Director John Grush (left) presents the Outstanding Service of the Year to Amanda Roberts (center) and Billy Saine (right). Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

GTU sponsored by Dunlop Race Tires – Vicente Frontinan, Scott Greenwood (and his son Greyson) and Paul Duval. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Heavyweight Superbike sponsored by Souhegan Valley Motorsports – Ian Beam, Scott Greenwood (and his son Greyson) and Rick Doucette. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Penguin Roadracing School’s Steve Aspland (left) presents the John Bettencourt Award sponsored by Penguin Roadracing School to David Dayon (right). Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Heavyweight Supersport sponsored by Antham Racing – Anthony DiCecca, Scott Greenwood and Ian Beam. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Lightweight Grand Prix sponsored by Seacoast Sport Cycle – John Grush, Brett Guyer and Rick Doucette. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Lightweight Sportsman – Adam Clark, Sergio Di Molfetta and Michael Zoner. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Lightweight Superbike sponsored by Freedom Cycle – Nicholas Leighton, Brett Guyer and Adam Guyer. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Lightweight Supersport – Brian Faucher, Nicholas Leighton and Bill Coolahan. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Middleweight Grand Prix sponsored by Moto Race – Eli Block, Scott Greenwood and Paul Duval. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Middleweight Superbike sponsored by REB Graphics – Rick Doucette, Scott Greenwood and Ian Beam. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Middleweight Supersport sponsored by K-Tech Suspension – Bryan Wardius, Scott Greenwood and Ian Beam. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Motard Champion Eli Block (center), third-place Sergio Di Molfetta (left), and racing supporter Stough Snead (right). Runner-up Gunnar Ouellette did not attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Moto 3 – Shane Lewis, Adam Muscaro and Renee Franco. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Super Singles sponsored by PTC Racing Champion Sergio Di Molfetta (center) and third-place Adam Clark (left). Runner-up Gunnar Ouellette did not attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Thunderbike – Adam Guyer, Brett Guyer and Tim Hogan. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Ultralight Superbike third-place finisher Sergio Di Molfetta (left) and Championship runner-up Brian Faucher. Class Champion Gunnar Ouellette did not attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Unlimited Grand Prix sponsored by Superbike Services 44 third-place finisher Jim Rich (left) and Championship runner-up David Dayon (right). Class Champion Eric Wood was unable to attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Unlimited Superbike sponsored by Scott Mullin Legacy Race – third-place finisher Jim Rich (left) and Championship runner-up David Dayon (right). Class Champion Eric Wood was unable to attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Unlimited Supersport sponsored by Orient Express – third-place finish Peter Kates (left) and Championship runner-up David Dayon (right). Class Champion Eric Wood was unable to attend the event. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Supertwins Combined sponsored by Seacoast Sport Cycle – Jim Rich, Tim Hogan and Brett Guyer. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Ultralight Grand Prix Combined sponsored by Bay Radiology of Cape Cod – Ryan Imbeault, Michael Zoner and Tim O’Connor. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

GT 500 Combined sponsored by First Trax Sports Shop – Shane Lewis, Renee Franco and Adam Muscaro. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Formula 60 Lightweight Combined – John Donald, John Grush and Tim O’Connor. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Scott Mullin’s widow Sarah Mullin (left) presents the Scott Mullin Legacy Award to Tim Hogan (right). Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Amateur Champions (from left) – Sam Martin, Michael Guarino, Geoffrey Bonnard, Asher Rubright, Eric Cormier, and Billy Saine. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

Amateur Champions (from left) – Billy Saine, Geoffrey Bonnard, Asher Rubright, Dan Pletea, and Andrei Ciobanu. Photo by Scott Hussey Photography, courtesy NEMRR.

MotoAmerica: REV’IT! Returns As Twins Cup Sponsor

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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MotoAmerica: REV’IT! Returns As Twins Cup Sponsor

REV’IT! Returns As Title Sponsor Of MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship

An Industry Leader In Technical Motorcycle Apparel, REV’IT! Is Back For A Second Season As Title Sponsor Of The MotoAmerica Twins Cup Class.

IRVINE, CA (February 16, 2023) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that REV’IT! Sport International, an industry leader in technical motorcycle apparel for more than 25 years, is returning as the title sponsor of the MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship for the 2023 racing season.

“REV’IT! enjoyed an exceptional MotoAmerica season in 2022, with Danilo Petrucci and PJ Jacobsen finishing second and sixth overall in the Medallia Superbike Championship,” said REV’IT! Brand Relations Manager Matthew Miles. “In addition to Petrucci’s five victories, PJ Jacobsen had three podium finishes and one pole position. Andrew Lee capped the year with a podium in YUASA Stock 1000 at Barber Motorsports Park.

“In 2023, REV’IT! is expanding its rider support,” continued Miles. “Jacobsen is returning to the Medallia Superbike Championship, and Nolan Lamkin will compete in YUASA Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup. Jackson Blackmon and Kayla Yaakov will contest the popular REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship. In addition, REV’IT! will continue to provide trackside support for Larry Pegram, Gene Buonomo, and Andrew Lee.”

REV’IT! Sport International, with headquarters in Oss, the Netherlands, and offices in Denver, Colorado, is an industry leader in technical motorcycle apparel, expanding the boundaries of function and style since 1995. The company continues its tradition of Design, Innovation, and Performance to improve standards of safety and sustainability for the global motorcycle community and to inspire motorcyclists everywhere to ride.

“Last year was our first year with REV’IT! onboard as a series sponsor with the REV’IT! Twins Cup Championship and it was a great partnership,” said MotoAmerica’s Lance Bryson. “So, we’re extremely happy to have them back for a second season in our paddock with not only their sponsorship but also the support they provide to many of our top stars.”

Visit the REV’IT! display in the FanZone at select MotoAmerica events.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

Video: 6D Helmets Celebrating 10th Anniversary

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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Video: 6D Helmets Celebrating 10th Anniversary

6D HELMETS CELEBRATES 10th ANNIVERSARY OF SALES

Helmet-Safety pioneer announces tenth anniversary of sales.

(BREA, Calif.) – 6D Helmets is excited to announce the tenth anniversary of sales. Kicked off in 2013 by the crash heard ‘round the world’, featuring Zach Bell flying spectacularly through the Dallas air, the company has achieved a multitude of accomplishments and highlights. From groundbreaking work within the NFL’s Head Health Challenge III, to changing the way the industry, and consumers alike, look at helmets, to the loyal customers that have embraced the brand. The company has also enjoyed sales success and considerable growth allowing continued investment back into R&D and new helmets. Today, 6D helmets are available in most mature markets around the globe, and will be more accessible in North America with new distribution partners Parts Unlimited and Parts Canada.

6D Helmets was founded 12 years ago by co-founders Bob Weber and Robert Reisinger. Recognizing that helmet technology had not materially advanced in many decades, the two started developing a suspended liner system to address both angular and linear acceleration forces better within the helmet. After 2-years of aggressive development, testing, and evaluation, 6D established the new gold-standard with the introduction of their game-changing ATR-1 off-road motorcycle helmet in 2013. The ATR-1’s revolutionary Omni-Directional Suspension™ technology (ODS) dramatically improved the helmet’s ability to mitigate impact forces and better protect the rider during an accident. ODS provides significantly improved linear and angular acceleration force reduction over broader ranges of energy demands than traditional helmet designs.

6D has continued to push helmet technology and rider safety, releasing 7 revolutionary helmets, all featuring ODSTM technology over the past 10 years. Other highlights include winning multiple titles in Supercross, Motocross, Superbike, Baggers, X-Games, Nitro Games, and other world-class racing events at both the professional and amateur levels. The greatest accomplishment, however, came in 2017 when it was announced 6D Helmets and laboratory partner Dynamic Research Inc., were selected the Grand Prize Winner of the NFL’s Head Health Challenge III Competition, further validating the performance and value of the proprietary Omni-Directional Suspension™ system. ODS is protected globally by 7 international patents with additional pending applications.

“6D is proud of its ten-year track record of growth and success while delivering the market better, safer helmets,” said Bob Weber, 6D’s CEO and cofounder, “At the same time, we are always forward focused, and continue to challenge ourselves to improve our technology and advance rider safety further.”

In celebration of entering a new decade of sales, 6D has released a new special “10-years of safety” logo, as well as a highlight video recapping some of the company’s many accomplishments and milestones.

ABOUT 6D HELMETS: 6D Helmets LLC is dedicated to the relentless pursuit of brain protection. 6D’s patented Omni-Directional Suspension™ (ODS) technology provides protection capabilities unmatched by any other helmet design. 6D Helmets, established in 2011, is the safety technology leader in both motorcycle and bicycle helmet design. ODS™ is exclusively available in 6D Helmets. www.6Dhelmets.com

MotoAmerica: Indian Announces 2023 Race Teams, Contingency Awards

David Swarts

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February 16, 2023

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MotoAmerica: Indian Announces 2023 Race Teams, Contingency Awards

AFTER AN UNPRECEDENTED TRIPLE CROWN IN 2022, INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RACING ANNOUNCES 2023 MOTOAMERICA® & PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE® AMERICAN FLAT TRACK^smFACTORY RACE TEAMS & PRIVATEER CONTINGENCY

Indian Motorcycle Racing Set to Defend Championships in MotoAmerica® King of the Baggers® & Super Hooligan® Classes & American Flat Track^sm SuperTwins

2022 King of the Baggers® & 2022 Super Hooligan® Champion Tyler O’Hara & Teammate Jeremy McWilliams to Pilot S&S® Indian Challengers and S&S® FTRs in MotoAmerica® Series

Reigning AFT SuperTwins Champion Jared Mees Chases Scottie Parker’s Historic Record of Nine Grand National Championships

Indian Motorcycle Racing Commits More than $405,000 in Combined Privateer Contingency For King of the Baggers®, Super Hooligan® & American Flat Track^sm National Championship

MINNEAPOLIS (FEBRUARY 16, 2023) – 2022 was a historic year for Indian Motorcycle Racing, capturing an unprecedented triple crown with championships across three different racing classes, including MotoAmerica® Mission® King Of The Baggers® (KOTB), RSD Super Hooligan® National Championship (SHNC) and Progressive Insurance® American Flat Track^smSuperTwins classes. Now America’s First Motorcycle Company enters the 2023 racing season intent on defending its triple crown and raising the bar yet again with its factory racing program.

Running three No. 1 plates, Indian Motorcycle Racing welcomes back reigning champions Tyler O’Hara and Jared Mees, along with KOTB and SHNC factory rider Jeremy McWilliams. The company has also announced more than $405,000 in combined privateer contingency for KOTB, SHNC and AFT.

Founded by racers who developed America’s first motorized bicycles, fueled by a desire to go faster and win races, Indian Motorcycle has been racing, and winning, for 122 years. From founder Oscar Hedstrom’s endurance racing dominance at the turn of the century, to O.C. Godfrey winning the first Mountain Circuit race at the famed Isle of Man in 1911, to Burt Munro’s land speed records or the Wrecking Crew’s domination in flat track in the 1950s and, more recently, its six consecutive AFT Championships from 2017-2022, the list of history-making racing milestones is unparalleled. Now the innovative American motorcycle company prepares to defend a triple crown.

“Racing and an overriding spirit of competition has been a driving force for Indian Motorcycle for more than a century, and that competitive fire continues to drive us forward to this day,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “We’re incredibly proud of the success we had in 2022 with three different championships, but it’s only going to get tougher in 2023, with our competition gunning for us more than ever. But that challenge is what motivates us and pushes us to get better every day, and we’re chomping at the bit to go racing in 2023.”

Tyler O'Hara, the 2023 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers and MotoAmerica RSD Super Hooligan Champion. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle. — Tyler O’Hara, the 2022 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers and MotoAmerica RSD Super Hooligan Champion. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

MotoAmerica® KOTB & SHNC

For 2023, Indian Motorcycle and S&S® will pit a two-man factory race team that will take on double duty across the Mission King Of The Baggers® and RSD Super Hooligan® classes. Proudly running the No. 1 plate in both classes, dual-threat champion Tyler O’Hara enters his fourth year aboard the Indian Challenger and his second year piloting an Indian FTR. Pitting alongside O’Hara in both classes is veteran MotoGP racer Jeremy McWilliams, whose technical knowledge and extensive experience at racing’s highest levels proved invaluable to the team’s success in 2022.

In the 2022 Mission King Of The Baggers® class, the team’s success was driven by O’Hara’s versatility, the expertise of the S&S® crew, and the consistency and reliability of the Indian Challenger. Through seven rounds aboard his Indian Challenger, O’Hara captured five podiums, including a Daytona win, and two fourth-place finishes.

With the No. 1 plate and an expanded 14-round KOTB series, O’Hara will be the man to beat. But the competition will be tougher than ever, as Harley-Davidson® continues to increase its significant investment in the series, adding even more bikes and riders to the King Of The Baggers® grid for 2023.

“The odds were definitely against us in 2022, and that’s what made climbing that mountain and ending up on top all the more special to our entire Indian Motorcycle-S&S® team. We grinded week in and week out to rise to that challenge and in the end, we got the job done,” said O’Hara. “But now we start over and the climb begins again. This team is truly a family, and we could not be more motivated to defend the championship and successfully rise to the challenge again in 2023.”

Indian Motorcycle's Jeremy McWilliams. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle. — Indian Motorcycle’s Jeremy McWilliams. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

In addition to its factory efforts, Indian Motorcycle is offering up to $83,000 in KOTB privateer contingency and up to $41,000 in SHNC Contingency.

2023 Indian Motorcycle KOTB Privateer Contingency

Championship: $20,000
1^st: $3,000
2^nd: $1,000
3^rd: $500

2023 Indian Motorcycle SHNC Privateer Contingency

Championship: $5,000
1^St: $3,000
2^nd: $1,000
3^rd: $500

Tyler O'Hara's Indian Challenger MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers racebike. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle. — Tyler O’Hara’s MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Indian Challenger racebike. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

AFT SuperTwins

Piloting the Indian FTR750 for his seventh-consecutive year, reigning Progressive Insurance® AFT SuperTwins Champion Jared Mees enters 2023 with eight AFT Grand National Championships to his name – just one shy of the historic record of nine held by Scottie Parker. A record that many have assumed would never be matched or broken, Mees is looking to do just that as he chases his ninth.

As Mees chases history, he’ll rely on his trusted team led by Crew Chief Kenny Tolbert, Assistant Mechanic Bubba Bently, and Suspension Technician Jimmy Wood. Mees will also receive support from Rogers Racing, SDI Racing, Drag Specialties®, Twigg Cycles, Mission® Foods, Monster Energy®, Bell® Helmets, Service Pro, Öhlins® Suspension, Klotz® Oil, Klock Werks^sm, RK Chain®, Corbin®, Seats, Engine Ice®, RMR Construction, Motion Pro®, VP Racing®, Vertex Pistons, Pro Plates and DBI Motorsports.

In addition to its AFT factory efforts around Mees, Indian Motorcycle is offering the sport’s most robust privateer contingency, equating to more than $280,000.

2023 Indian Motorcycle AFT Privateer Contingency:

Championship: $25,000
1^st: $7,500
2^nd: $2,500
3^rd: $1,500
4^th: $1,000
5^th: $750
6^th: $350
7^th: $250
8^th: $150
9^th: $125
10^th: $100

Indian Motorcycle factory race efforts are presented by Progressive Insurance®, Mission® Foods and Medallia®, with additional support from Indian Motorcycle Motor Oil, S&S®, Parts Unlimited, Drag Specialties®, Performance Finance, and J&P Cycles®.

KOTB, SHNC and AFT seasons begin March 9 at the Daytona International Speedway. For more information on the 2023 AFT season, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com, for KOTB and SHNC, visit MotoAmerica.com.

For information about Indian Motorcycle, visit IndianMotorcycle.com, or follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®

Indian Motorcycle Company is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

INDIAN and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE are registered trademarks of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC. Always wear a helmet, protective clothing and eyewear and insist your passenger does the same. Ride within the limits of the law and your own abilities. Read, understand and follow your owner’s manual. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Progressive Insurance® is a registered trademark of Progressive Casualty Insurance Company; MOTOAMERICA® is a registered trademark of Krave Group, American Flat Track^SM is a service trademark of Daytona Motorsports Group LLC; Harley-Davidson® is a registered trademark of H-D U.S.A., LLC; King of the Baggers® is a registered trademark of KRAVE GROUP, LLC; Super Hooligan® is a registered trademark of Roland Sands Design, Inc.; Mission® is a registered trademark of Gruma Corporation; Monster Energy® is a registered trademark; Drag Specialties® is a registered trademark of LeMans Corporation; Bell® is a registered trademark of Bell Sports, Inc; Medallia® is a registered trademark of Medallia Inc.; S&S® is a registered trademark of S&S Cycle, Inc.; J&P Cycles® is a registered trademark of J&P CYCLES, LLC; Öhlins® is a registered trademark of Öhlins Racing AB CORPORATION SWEDEN; Klotz®is a registered trademark of Klotz Synthetic Lubricants, Inc.; Klock Werkssm is a service trademark of Klock, Brian INDIVIDUAL; RK TAKASAGO CHAIN is a registered trademark of RK JAPAN CO., LTD., Engine Ice® is a registered trademark of KOST USA, LLC; VP Racing Fuels® is a registered trademark of VP RACING FUELS Inc.; Motion Pro® is a registered trademark of Motion Pro Inc.; Corbi® is a registered trademark of CORBIN PACIFIC, INC; Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC.

ABOUT S&S® CYCLE

S&S® Cycle was born from a passion for racing and has spent over six decades building performance for the powersports market. Their unwavering focus on quality, reliability and top shelf power has made S&S® Cycle the absolute leader in high performance on the street and track.

California Roadrace Association: Ketelsen & Prince Reign At Buttonwillow

David Swarts

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February 15, 2023

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California Roadrace Association: Ketelsen & Prince Reign At Buttonwillow

California Roadrace Association 2023 Round 1 @ Buttonwillow Raceway Park: Bryce Prince, Andy DiBrino, Brenden Ketelsen!

[Buttonwillow, CA] California Roadrace Association (CRA) kicked off the 2023 season at Buttonwillow Raceway Park February 11-12. Racers came from all over Northern and Southern California, various other states, and even other countries. There were healthy grids for virtually every class making for some very competitive racing. In spite of the spotty forecast, we were greeted with sunny skies from the first green flag to the last checkered.

“It was great to see all those smiling faces for round 1,” said CRA Co-Founder Lyle Geoff Brown. “The stiff competition made for some exciting races and kept me on my toes in the announcer booth!”

CRA’s “Racers First” focus continued this weekend with the addition of CRA’s new mentorship program “Racer 411” which welcomed new racers to the paddock with pit and race prep assistance. The club continues to give back to the paddock with a majority of the classes being sponsored by local businesses. CRA held its 2022 season awards dinner Saturday evening which included prize giveaways from their sponsors. KYT Helmets, Capit Performance products, a 10-day track pack by Carter’s @ The Track, along with a 35” Boxo Tool cart. We would like to thank all the racers for participating in the 2022 race season.

The weekend started off with Brenden Ketelsen on his ZX-6R taking the win in the 18-lap 61DTC 600GT race, followed by Yamaha YZF-R6-mounted Declan Van Rosmalen in second and Andy DiBrino aboard his KTM 890 Duke R in third.

Bryce Prince showed up with a full team in tow of BPR Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycles and filled several grids. He dominated the races on Sunday, taking wins in Better Call Sy Expert 1000 Supersport, and TrackDaz Expert 1000 Superbike. BPR Yamaha teammate Ben Hodges had Saturday’s 1000 races on lockdown, taking wins in 61DTC 1000 GT and Better Call Sy Expert 1000 Supersport.

Ketelsen, on board his Graves Kawasaki ZX-6R, turned up in top form. He took the win in Fun TrackDayz Expert 600 SUPERSPORT over Yamaha YZF-R6 mounted Zach Harrington and Kier Leonhardt. Ketelsen also came in first in Carters @ the Track 600 SUPERBIKE, with DiBrino and his KTM 890 Duke R in second, Keir Leonhardt on a Yamaha R6 in third.

In Sunday’s premier race, the 12-lap CTML Consultants Gold Cup, Prince rode his BPR Yamaha YZF-R1 to the top step with a commanding victory over Motorsport Exotica’s BMW-mounted Wyatt Farris and Ketelsen on his Kawasaki ZX-6R.

Some of the most riveting races of the weekend were in the Twins classes. Aprilia RS 660 mounted rider Justin Bordonaro dominated the weekend. In the Twins GT race on Saturday, he took the RS 660 to win over Honda NSF250-mounted Alexander Enriquez. On Sunday, Bordonaro was also able to take wins over Alexander in Eyes Up Motorsports Battle of the Twins, as well as RS Speed Shop Twins Grand Prix.

“I’m just happy to grid up with all of these fast guys,” said Co-Founder Dustin Coyner. “Seeing the paddock full and super busy brought a smile to my face.”

Round 2 of 2023 CRA will be held the weekend of April 28-30 at the Podium Club in Casa Grande, Arizona.

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 support:

CTML Consultants, Better Call Sy, Empowered Transportation, Feel Like a Pro, Track Daz, Let’s Ride Track Days, Rocket Cams, Inc., 61DTC, Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka, Racer’s Edge Performance, Pirelli, VnM Sport, Dunlop, Carter’s @ The Track, Fun Track Dayz, Eyes Up Motorsports, Motorsport Exotica, Kern County Powersports, Lieto Factory, Eyes Up Motorsports, RS Speedshop, Catalyst Reaction Tuning, KYT Helmets, Capit Americas, The Heights Bar & Grill (Upland, CA), Maria Cid – Farmer’s Insurance, Cinepixel Productions, New Century Motorcycles, Moto4Life, Pacific Utility, Twilio, Boxo USA, Mithos USA, Suspension Matters, Road Race City, Bridgestone, Ryder Gear

ROUND 1 RACE RESULTS:

61DTC 1000 GT

1. Wyatt Farris (BMW S1000RR)

2. Nayden Balladeres (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Jason Rodriguez (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Ryan Abler (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Dustin Coyner (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Nigel Carson (Yam YZF-R1)

61DTC 600 GT

1. Brenden Ketelsen (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Declan Van Rosmalen (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Andy DiBrino (KTM 890 Duke)

4. Sahar Svik (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Orel Madar (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Wristin Grigg (Kaw ZX-6R)

Ladies of CRA, Presented by Let’s Ride Track Days

1. Emily Grana (Suz GSX-R600)

2. Jasmine Nichols (Kaw 400)

3. Bogna Davis (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Erinn Merlow (Kaw 400)

5. Lauren Prince (Kaw 400)

6. CeeJae Padilla (Kaw 300)

Feel Like a Pro 400 GT

1. Aiden Sneed (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Kayla Yaakov (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Alex George (Kaw 400)

4. Kevin Vergenz (Husq FS 450)

5. Chris Joffrion (KTM 450 SMR)

6. Andrew Krall (Yam YZF-R3)

Rocket Cams Outlaw V-Twins GT

1. Chris Rivas (Buell XB12)

2. John Trujillo (H-D FXDL)

3. David Lancaster (H-D Dyna)

Ruffians GT

1. Andy DiBrino (KTM 890 Duke)

Twins GT

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Alexander Enriquez (Hon NSF250R)

3. Ruben Soto (Apr RS 660)

4. Ed Sorbo (Suz SV650)

5. Luke Hiesterman (Yam FZ-07)

6. Santiago Avila (Yam YZF-R7)

Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka Formula 40 Heavyweight

(Saturday)

1. Ryan Abler (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Fabrice Vilder (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Terry Heard (BMW S1000RR)

4. Steve Zoumaras (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Dustin Coyner (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Jaakko Tiistola (BMW S1000RR)

(Sunday)

1. Ryan Abler (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Terry Heard (BMW S1000RR)

3. Dustin Coyner (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Fabrice Vilder (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Jaycee Sterling (Suz GSX-R1000)

6. Ben Ingram (BMW S1000RR)

Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka Formula 40 Middleweight

(Saturday)

1. Sahar Svik (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Keir Leonhardt (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Oscar Fernandez (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Miles Beacham (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Jesse Sims (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jansher Ashraf (Yam YZF-R6)

(Sunday)

1. Sahar Svik (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Keir Leonhardt (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Jesse Sims (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Oscar Fernandez (Yam YZF-R6)

Pirelli Sportsman

1. Gary Rubico (Duc 899)

2. Lauren Prince (Kaw 400)

3. Mason Baker (KTM RC 390)

4. Terrence Bisch (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Lyle Henry (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Hailey Makinson (Kaw 400)

American Iron presented by Empowered Transportation

(Saturday)

1. John Trujillo (H-D FXDL)

2. Chris Rivas (H-D FLTR)

3. David Lancaster (H-D Dyna)

4. Brendan Murphy (H-D Dyna)

(Sunday)

1. John Trujillo (H-D FXDL)

2. David Lancaster (H-D Dyna)

Blood x Sweat x Tears Vodka Formula 40 Lightweight

(Saturday)

1. Ed Sorbo (Suz SV650)

2. Santiago Avila (Yam YZF-R7)

3. Damian Doffo (Yam TZ250)

4. James Bush (Suz SV650)

5. Erinn Merlow (Kaw 400)

6. Ed Guzman (Apr RS 660)

(Sunday)

1. Ruben Soto (Apr RS 660)

2. Ed Sorbo (Suz SV650)

3. Santiago Avila (Yam YZF-R7)

4. James Bush (Suz SV650)

5. Erinn Merlow (Kaw 400)

6. Shaughn Reid (Kaw 400)

Modern Vintage

(Saturday)

1. Charles Coyston (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Blake Gentry (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Jake Barritt (Hon CBR929RR)

4. Doug Loud (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Edward Hearn (Yam YZF-R6)

6. David Carbajal (BMW S1000RR)

(Sunday)

1. Charles Coyston (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Blake Gentry (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Jake Barritt (Hon CBR929RR)

Better Call Sy Ruffians Lightweight

(Saturday)

1. Andy DiBrino (KTM 890 Duke)

2. Bert Bledsoe (Buell Cyclone)

(Sunday)

1. Andy DiBrino (KTM 890 Duke)

Better Call Sy Expert 1000 Supersport

(Saturday)

1. Ben Hodges (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Jason Rodriguez (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Cody Cochran (BMW S1000RR)

5. Steve Zoumaras (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Fabrice Vilder (Yam YZF-R1)

(Sunday)

1. Bryce Prince (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Ben Hodges (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Jason Rodrigeuz (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Cody Cochran (BMW S1000RR)

5. Fabrice Vilder (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Terry Heard (BMW S1000RR)

Fun Track Dayz Expert 600 Supersport

1. Brenden Ketelsen (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Zach Harrington (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Keir Leonhardt (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Jesse Sims (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Miles Beacham (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jansher Ashraf (Yam YZF-R6)

Lieto Factory Amateur 1000 Supersport

(Saturday)

1. Nayden Balladeres (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Wristin Grigg (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Jesus Ruiz (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Anthony Huizer (Suz GSX-R1000)

5. Joshua Scott (Apr RSV4)

6. Ernest Sauceda (Suz GSX-R1000)

(Sunday)

1. Nayden Balladeres (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Jesus Ruiz (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Anthony Huizer (Suz GSX-R1000)

4. Aleks Palacios (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Ernest Sauceda (Suz GSX-R1000)

6. Joshua Scott (Apr RSV4)

Motolife Amateur 600 Supersport

1. Wristin Grigg (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Geoff Sims (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Blake Gentry (Suz GSX-R600)

5. Mujahid Umar (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Bogna Davis (Yam YZF-R6)

Eyes Up Motorsports Battle of the Twins

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Alexander Enriquez (Hon NSF250R)

3. Ed Sorbo (Suz SV650)

4. Jasmine Nichols (Kaw 400)

5. Santiago Avila (Yam YZF-R7)

6. Jorge Gonzalez (Apr RS 660)

Feel Like a Pro Expert 400 Supersport

1. Jasmine Nichols (Kaw 400)

2. Alex George (Kaw 400)

3. Andrew Krall (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Erinn Merlow (Kaw 400)

5. Shaughn Reid (Kaw 400)

5. Oliver Ramleth (Yam YZF-R3)

Feel Like a Pro Amateur 400 Supersport

1. Eric Liao (Kaw 400)

2. Himesh Kurera (Kaw 300)

CTML Consultants CRA GOLD CUP

1. Bryce Prince (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Wyatt Farris (BMW S1000RR)

3. Brenden Ketelsen (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Ben Hodges (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Jason Rodriguez (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Nigel Carson (Yam YZF-R1)

7. Dustin Coyner (Yam YZF-R1)

8. Terry Heard (BMW S1000RR)

9. Steve Zoumaras (Kaw ZX-10R)

10. Jansher Ashraf (Yam YZF-R6)

RS Speed Shop Twins GrandPrix

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Alexander Enriquez (Hon NSF250)

3. Ruben Soto (Apr RS 660)

4. Jasmin Nichols (Kaw 400)

5. Ed Sorbo (Suz SV650)

6. Jorge Gonzalez (Apr RS 660)

Better Call Sy Amateur 1000 Superbike

1. Nayden Balladeres (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Anthony Huizer (Suz GSX-R1000)

3. Aleks Palacios (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Garrett Hazelton (BMW S1000RR)

6. Ernest Sauceda (SUZ GSX-R1000)

Carter’s @ the Track Expert 600 Superbike

1. Brenden Ketelsen (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Andy DiBrino (KTM 890 Duke)

3. Keir Leonhardt (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Zach Harrington (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Sahar Zvik (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Jesse Sims (Yam YZF-R6)

TrackDaz Expert 1000 Superbike

1. Bryce Prince (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Wyatt Farris (BMW S1000RR)

3. Ryan Abler (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Dustin Coyner (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Cody Cochran (BMW S1000RR)

Feel Like a Pro Expert 400 Superbike

1. Jasmine Nichols (Kaw 400)

2. Alex George (Kaw 400)

3. Chris Joffrion (Kaw 400)

4. Shaughn Reid (Kaw 400)

5. Erinn Merlow (Kaw 400)

6. Oliver Ramleth (Kaw 400)

Feel Like a Pro Amateur 400 Superbike

1. Kevin Vergenz (Husq FS450)

2. Lauren Prince (Kaw 400)

3. CeeJae Padilla (Kaw 300)

Video: Army Of Darkness Buys, Modifies, And Rides A TM EN 300FI

February 17, 2023

Sam Fleming in action on his new 2022 TM EN 300FI. Photo courtesy Army of Darkness.

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming fell in love with TM when he and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM factory in Italy in April 2022. Upon arriving home he found a coveted 2022 300 FI 2T for sale and snapped it up. After a couple little teething problems, he’s got it set up and is out in the woods.

Roadracing World’s Sam Fleming and Melissa Berkoff visited the TM Racing factory in Pesaro Italy in April 2022 and you can find a series of videos about that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0AEu…

TM Racing makes arguably the most exquisite racing motorcycles for MX, Enduro and Supermoto in the world. They also made a championship winning Moto3 road race bike!

Remember to subscribe to this channel!

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

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

AIMExpo 2023: Is Moto Trainer The Best Motorcycle Simulator Yet? (Video)

February 16, 2023

By Michael Gougis

One of the busiest exhibits at the AIMExpo 2023 show displayed the Italian-made Moto Trainer, the official MotoGP simulator. As it was configured at the show, the trainer had an Aprilia RSV4 mounted up and was set up to deliver braking, throttle, and lean input resistance. Visitors got to experience a virtual lap of Mugello while leaning, braking and accelerating on a full-size, full-weight motorcycle.

The main component of the simulator is a rail which any full-size motorcycle can be mounted to. The rail allows the motorcycle to be leaned 60 degrees from vertical. A turnbuckle linkage at the front adjusts the damping to the rider’s weight. Sensors are mounted on the throttle, so when the rider twists the grip the machine starts to stand up. Other sensors are mounted to the front forks, so when the rider hits the front brakes, the machine dips forward. Other sensor options include the shifter and the rear brake.

It’s hard not to dismiss the device as a mere video game. A company spokesperson said that 70% of the units sold in the U.S. are bought by private parties, meaning that they likely are used as gaming platforms. The company also says that it can be used as a trainer to simulate the act of riding a sportbike (or off-road machine), and to learn new tracks. The need for a realistic simulator for professional road racers is evident from the widespread use of simulators in four-wheel racing. Top-level teams have dedicated simulator drivers who do nothing but put in laps on incredibly sophisticated devices, performing virtual testing of components and honing their skills. With testing limited in most professional road racing series, an accurate simulator could be a decisive performance edge for a top rider or team, allowing them to turn virtual laps to add to real-world testing inputs.

Roadracing World being Roadracing World, we put Robertino “Tino” Pietri, former Moto2 and AMA Pro road racer, onto the exhibit for a few virtual laps around Mugello. The physical exertion required to operate the trainer was evident–Pietri had arm pump after riding the simulator.

It is not perfect. The device does not yet allow for counter-steering, so the riding inputs are almost completely done with the legs. Without the G-forces involved in riding, braking and acceleration inputs do not replicate the forces felt on a motorcycle in motion. And the arms get a workout not from steering the machine, but from holding the body in position when the motorcycle is leaned over, as the centripetal forces that push the rider into the machine and relieve the arms of carrying the rider’s weight while cornering are absent.

“When you go to a track day, what I see is the principles of riding a motorcycle, body position, how to use the brakes, how to use the rear brake, how to move yourself, that’s hard to learn to do while you are in movement,” Pietri said. “A big number of riders are not doing that correctly. I think this machine can give you a lot of those principles–how to position yourself on the bike, how to grab the handlebars. You can practice that in a static situation without the risk of a crash, and I can tell you exactly what you should be doing.”

Prices start at $5,900 and range up to $18,990 for the official MotoGP Flagship model.

R.I.P. Dealership Co-Owner And Former Racer Nick Hayman

February 16, 2023

Nick Hayman, circa 2011. Photo courtesy Nick Hayman Collection.

Dealership co-owner and former racer Nick Hayman died February 15. He was 64.

Hayman, who was originally from London, England, raced a Ducati in AFM and selected AMA Pro events from 2007 to 2012, scoring points in AMA Pro Supersport races.

In 2012, Hayman suffered two major crashes and head injuries, leading to him giving up racing.

He then focused on running the multi-line dealership he co-owned, Munroe Motors, in San Francisco, California.

His passing was announced on the Facebook page of Munroe Motors.

We will update this post as more information becomes available.

AIMExpo 2023 Las Vegas: Bigger Beginner Bikes, Upping The Voltage

February 16, 2023

Honey, They Shrunk The Magna: Keeway displayed a 498cc, four-valve-per-cylinder V-Four cruiser with inverted forks and a claimed 54 bhp at 10,000 rpm. Photo by Michael Gougis.

By Michael Gougis

Electric powered- and electric-assisted machines were in full force at the AIMExpo 2023 in Las Vegas, and motorcycle industry stalwarts showed off new and improve models that make middleweight motorcycles more accessible to newer and beginning riders.

Suzuki debuted its new GSX-8S alongside its new V-STROM 800 DE Adventure machine, with the new 776cc Parallel-Twin models incorporating several features to make the bikes suitable for riders with minimal experience. Each comes with traction control, anti-lock brakes, assisted/slipper clutch mechanisms, and clutchless upshifting and downshifting.

“We wanted to come out and showcase some of our newest, latest products, and connect with the dealer network. We wanted to show people that Suzuki was still going to be a strong presence in the motorcycle industry in America,” said Chase Rastegar, Assistant Manager of National Sales and Dealer Development for Suzuki Motor USA.

As the electronic rider aid technology introduced and refined in the heat of road racing competition matures, it becomes cheaper and easier for manufacturers to incorporate it into less expensive production models. Kawasaki’s Ninja 650 now comes with traction control. Triumph had on display at AIMEXPO its Speed Twin 900, which makes Middleweight Twin power in a package that comes with an assisted clutch, ABS, and traction control. Which means that larger models, more than ever before, are suitable for riders with minimal experience. In theory, this means that a new rider can, instead of purchasing a “starter” bike that they will outgrow, purchase a larger machine, hone their skills with a safety net of rider aids underneath them, and have a vehicle that will entertain them for years.

The other trend visible among the exhibits was, of course, the increasing prevalence of electric-powered and electric-assisted vehicles. Notable by their absence were the manufacturers of larger, more expensive, and higher-powered electric motorcycles like Zero and Energica.

Instead, the floors were packed with smaller machines that looked very much like minimalist off-road motorcycles; electric-assisted bicycles; and an assortment of other electric vehicles that promised fun, style, or some combination thereof. These motorcycles were not designed to be direct competitors to internal-combustion machines. Instead, they were designed to be fun, practical transportation for urban use and light commuting and off-roading. Top speeds were typically 70 mph and below, with range well under 100 miles, and designed primarily to be charged at home. But the price points were in line with entry-level gas-powered motorcycles, and in some cases well below.

The electric-assisted pedal bicycle market has exploded in recent years, and there were several models on display. And JackRabbit exhibited what may become an entirely new category of electric vehicle–the micro eBike. For $999.99, a rider gets an electric motorcycle that weighs 24 pounds, has a range of about 10 miles, goes 20 mph and folds and disassembles into a package that is only seven inches wide. Honestly, the company may as well have had a big neon sign saying “Pit Bike” mounted above its booth!

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