When the Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) published its 2023 season schedule in November of last year, they believed the dates were locked in, but due to circumstances beyond their control, a couple of conflicts arose. As a result, some changes had to be made. The season will still include two New Racer Schools, and the full season championship series will still consist of seven Race Rounds, five of which at High Plains Raceway (HPR), using three different track configurations, one round at Pikes Peak International Raceway (PPIR), and one round at Pueblo Motorsports Park. Below is the updated and final 2023 MRA Season Schedule:
2023 Motorcycle Roadracing Association Race Schedule
April 7-8 – New Racer School #1 at HPR (Full Course)
May 6-7 – Round 1 at HPR (Full Course)
June 3-4 – Round 2 at PPIR
June 17 – New Racer School #2 and MRA Trackday at Pueblo Motorsports Park
June 24-25 – Round 3 at HPR (West Course)
July 15-16 – Round 4 at HPR (Full Course) + 4-hour endurance
July 29-30 – Round 5 at Pueblo Motorsports Park
August 26-27 – Round 6 at HPR (North Course)
September 23-24 – Round 7 at HPR (Full Course)
The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.
Josh Waters sets the tone for season 2023: He’s the man to beat.
The final day of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) Official Test was set to be an all-daylight affair after last night’s all-important under-lights session.
A 36-degree forecast greeted all assembled but the early running was overcast and mercifully under those frankly hideous numbers.
The promised 36 degrees never arrived, but we did get over 60-degree track temperatures as a consolation prize.
None of these were as hot as the on-track action. The top six in superbike topped Alex Criville’s 1996 500GP lap time on the mighty Honda NSR 2-stroke aboard their 2023 spec ASBK machines.
The test uncovered some new gems, reaffirmed the talent of others and set the stage perfectly for the 2023 season of racing.
Alpinestars Superbike
The early part of the first session for SBK was overcast and the sun poked through shortly after the start to really heat up the track and see who had carry over form from the cooler night before.
Broc Pearson on the DesmoSport Ducati had the top spot for perhaps a minute before Yamaha Racing’s Cru Halliday asserted himself as he is want to do. McMartin Racing’s Josh Waters was having none of that and was first to dip into the 1:29s and before Halliday had a chance to respond the red flag came out after Pearson went off at Turn Four.
The restart of the session saw Halliday trading fastest times with Josh Waters who – on his last flying lap – dropped an incredible 1:29.570 to dip well below both the pole and race lap records by 2/10ths and send the clearest possible message to the field that the Mildura born and bred Waters is back in ASBK in 2023 and is not here to mess about. Waters not only nailed the fastest ever two wheeled lap of the Sydney Motorsport Park Grand Prix layout, but he also hit 295km/h down the main straight. With several sessions to come, it’s over to Cru Halliday and Mike Jones (second and third for the session) to respond.
Practice six- the second for the day, saw the early running a Waters/Halliday show with Lachlan Epis up into fourth at times and Senna Agius fifth.
Herfoss was eighth for a lot of the session, seemingly “just testing new things”, but was able to make it work and jumped up into third late in the session.
Of the ASBK regulars (Agius and Epis are not set for a full season in SBK), Mike Jones was next in sixth, Broc Pearson was back in the hunt after an earlier crash in seventh, Max Stauffer was eighth, Ted Collins in ninth and Mark Chiodo on an ex-Penrite Honda in tenth.
Arthur Sissis had an engine/electronic issue in an earlier session and was back in eleventh, with Paris Hardwick twelfth.
Practice seven and the second-to-last session for SBK opened with Senna Agius briefly on top before that bloke Josh Waters spoiled the party once again, popping up with a 1:30.708.
A quieter session for the day, many riders opting to do short runs. The 30c+ air and 61c track temperature played a big role.
With 10 minutes to go, less than 5 bikes were on track and we finished with Waters, Herfoss, Agius and Halliday in fourth.
A reduced field hit the still hot track for the final session, but all the major championship contenders in on track.
And we can’t say this enough, but AGAIN it was Josh Waters king o’ the hill, master of the house, man to beat. Back into the 1:29s this time a 1:29.622 after a 1:29.8 the lap before.
If there was a statement being made, then we get it. Josh Waters is going to be a major contender in 2023, and not just here at SMSP. He’s a multi-time champion with the fastest bike in the paddock and backed by a team that has multiple championship wins.
And if Josh Waters at the top made it feel a bit olde school brigade then the sight of Max Stauffer second and Broc Pearson third in the final session ought give hope to the new crew coming through.
Mike Jones was in fourth and finally Arthur Sissis with it all together in fifth.
A huge season is fast approaching, and the test has only served to whet our appetites.
Alpinestars Superbike- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 21 Josh WATERS (VIC) 1:29.570
2 65 Cru HALLIDAY (NSW) 1:29.658
3 1 Mike JONES (QLD) 1:29.997
4 17 Troy HERFOSS (QLD) 1:30.024
5 4 Broc PEARSON (QLD) 1:30.235
6 83 Lachlan EPIS (NSW) 1:30.275
7 27 Max STAUFFER (NSW) 1:30.453
8 81 Senna AGIUS (NSW) 1:30.810
9 29 Ted COLLINS (VIC) 1:31.098
10 61 Arthur SISSIS (SA) 1:31.306
Michelin Supersport
The first session for the Supersport squads saw Harrison Voight at the top and left his fellow test attendees happy that Harrison will seek his racing fix in Europe in 2023.
Some .7 of a second behind was Sean Condon from 2022 Supersport Champions John Lytras. Jake Farnsworth was fourth with Scott Nicholson fifth.
The second session late in the morning was once again the Harrison Voight show with a 1.1 second gap to second placed Farnsworth with Tom Bramich third. Bramich had admitted that he had taken his bike back to base settings and was working from there. Third showed the evolution of that plan.
A crash from Scott Nicholson at turn six brought out the red flag for the session, and as the clock was run down, the session was called and ended.
The session after lunch saw soaring track temperatures of over 60c and Harrison Voight content to sit out the rest of the day after pretty much dominating the entire test to that point.
It fell to John Lytras to assert himself as in this session and he did so, but only by .0007 to Giuseppe Scarcella who had been thereabouts for much of the test, but now evidently had a fully sorted YZF-R6 under him. Cameron Dunker was third to show he’s very much ready for this big step from the 300 to the 600.
The final session of the entire test ended on a sour note. While it was Lytras on top from Condon and Farnsworth, the session ended with a red flag and multiple riders down.
Farnsworth crashed late in a lap and Dallas Skeer shortly after at nearly the same spot. Farnsworth was able to return to the pits, Skeer required medical attention.
While this was going on, Jonathan Nahlous crashed at turn 3 as the red flag was being deployed. With just a few minutes remining, the session was declared done and the medical team was busy for the next while, delaying the following sessions and ending the Supersport test days in an unfortunate fashion.
Michelin Supersport- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 29 Harrison VOIGHT (QLD) 1:32.138
2 26 Sean CONDON (NSW) 1:33.184
3 1 John LYTRAS (QLD) 1:33.335
4 49 Jake FARNSWORTH (NSW) 1:33.401
5 44 Tom BRAMICH (VIC) 1:33.620
6 3 Cameron DUNKER (NSW) 1:33.931
7 39 Scott NICHOLSON (VIC) 1:34.011
8 86 Dallas SKEER (SA) 1:34.145
9 47 Giuseppe SCARCELLA (NSW) 1:34.150
10 42 Jack PASSFIELD (NSW) 1:34.150
Supersport 300
A 9:30 am start for the first practice of the day for the three hundjees saw Cameron Swain sway the times his way with ‘veteran’ 300 racer Brandon Demmery up into second for the session. Brodie Gawith had improved on his consistency from the first day and was up to third.
A red flag interrupted the session when Cameron Dunker crashed his Moto3 bike, but the session resumed without issue and the top two improved their times.
The second session of the day saw Marcus Hamod electing to run a Moto3 bike, leaving Brandom Demmery the opportunity to show he’s not lost too much after sitting out much of 2022.
The 25-year-old Demmery took the fastest time of the session with Sam Pezzetta back into the top three and Brodie Gawith rounding out the top three.
The seventh session of the Official Test was Cameron Swain’s. After an OJC series win in 2021 and a mixed 2022, this year beckons Swain to greater things and after a number of podiums in 2022 in the Supersport 300 class, his opportunity awaits him.
Pezzetta was second with Brandom Demmery again thereabouts in third.
The final session of the test saw Cameron Swain end up on top again from Brodie Gawith and the ever-reliable Brandon Demmery.
In contrast to the Superport 600 machines, the smaller Supersport 300s kept it clean and crash-free to the checkered flag to round out a successful test at Sydney Motorsport Park.
Supersport 300- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 13 Marcus HAMOD (NSW)1:44.633 189
2 11 Brandon DEMMERY (NSW) 1:44.811
3 26 Cameron SWAIN (QLD) 1:45.148 192
4 51 Sam PEZZETTA (SA) 1:45.251 189
5 25 Brodie GAWITH (VIC) 1:45.513 191
6 55 Steve SFORZIN (VIC) 1:45.713 195
7 57 Cooper ROWNTREE (SA) 1:46.131 189
8 17 Joshua NEWMAN (NSW) 1:46.349 191
9 12 Henry SNELL (QLD) 1:46.371
10 2 Luke JHONSTON (VIC) 1:46.470
bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup
First out in the morning, the top riders shuffled their order a touch, with first-year rider Riley Nauta who had been a top three contender last night dropping down to 12th and seemingly out of sorts. Topping the table was Bodie Page from his lookalike (and nemesis) Sam Drane in second. Valentino Knezovic continued his improvement and delivered on the promise he showed in 2022 and was third. OJC first-year riders Rikki Henry and Jed Fyffe were fourth and fifth.
While Bodie Page was the fastest for the session, he also had a get-off at turn five to apparently keep the OJC mechanic crew busy and the assembled media confused.
The later sessions saw Bodie Paige once again up top with Rikki Henry for company and brother Jake Paige a fast learner up into the top three.
For the majority of the OJC, working closely with the support team (including mum and dad!), it was a matter of getting into a rhythm and finding time here and there. Rider coach Garry McCoy was clear in his addresses with the riders; learn, progress and stay upright.
Mercifully, they largely listened and a terrific season of OJC awaits us.
2023 welcomes Ducati as MotoE™ gets ready for more races, more rounds and more incredible competition powered by Enel X Way
Thursday, 02 February 2023
It’s 2023 and that means it’s time to get excited for the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship! No longer a Cup, the electric competition gains World Championship status this season, there’s a new manufacturer… and the calendar expands to eight rounds!
In 2023, MotoE™ welcomes Ducati as the single manufacturer, with plenty to look forward to as the grid switch machinery and get ready for the most comprehensive season ever. Eight rounds in seven countries sees MotoE™ join the MotoGP™ paddock from Le Mans, kicking off competition alongside the 1000th Grand Prix, and the season runs all the way through to Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. That’s every MotoGP™ stop in Europe between May and early September, creating a 16-race, eight-round, action-packed MotoE™ season.
The timetable also changes in 2023. MotoE™ kicks off the action at 8:25am on Fridays with Practice 1, before a second Practice session at 12:25pm. The P1+P2 times are combined to decide the direct entrants to Q1 and Q2, with qualifying beginning at 17:00. Q1 and Q2 qualifying remain live and free to watch on YouTube, giving everyone a taste of the electric action!
Saturday is now the showstopper for the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship. It’s race day – and nothing else! The two showdowns now both take place on Saturday afternoon, making it a true spectacle for fans at the track and viewers at home.
Race 1 kicks off the competition at 12:10 – right after qualifying for the MotoGP™ class – and it’s the first racing action of the weekend. Then there’s qualifying for Moto3™ and Moto2™ before the high-octane addition of the MotoGP™ Sprint every Saturday.
The action continues with MotoE™ as the electric competition, powered by Enel X Way, serves up more racing on super Saturday: Race 2 follows the MotoGP™ Sprint, with the lights out for the second showdown of the weekend at 16:10. That’s an action-packed event for MotoE™, giving the electric World Championship some incredible visibility and ensuring fans around the world get the best of this parallel path of sustainable innovation.
Make sure to tune in for the biggest MotoE™ season yet and download the full schedule below!
Alicia Busa Joins WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as Communications Manager
MONTEREY, Calif., February 2, 2023—WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is pleased to announce Alicia Busa has joined the management team as Communications Manager. She enters the organization with a strong background in marketing and hospitality and proven insight into event management. Not entirely new to WeatherTech Raceway, she previously was responsible for managing the media center and working closely with journalists last August during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.
“Alicia immediately jumped into the largest event of the year on only several days’ notice and executed a first-class environment for attending journalists,” said Barry Toepke, director of heritage events and public relations. “She took total responsibility while also lending design support to the marketing team. Her enthusiasm, intuition and do-whatever-it-takes mindset is a welcomed addition to the professional team as we embark on an exciting 2023 season.”
Alicia is passionate about community involvement and event planning. For the past three years, she has taken an active role on the planning committee for the Big Sur Food & Wine Foundation, a non-profit organization that benefits the local economy and supports the health, safety, education and arts of Big Sur. She also loves to volunteer her time on weekends to various community organizations.
Among Alicia’s responsibilities are working with journalists and media center management, creating a cohesive plan that encompasses marketing, communications, and digital media, and developing storylines to heighten brand awareness of the entire Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which includes the campgrounds. She will be the primary point of contact for journalists and series public relations teams and will work closely with Toepke.
Alicia may be contacted at: [email protected] or by calling 831-242-8275.
Tickets for the 2023 race season, which kicks off May 5-7 with the Trans Am SpeedFest and followed days later by the Motul Course de Monterey and the return of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship May 12-14, are available online at www.WeatherTechRaceway.com or by calling 831-242-8200.
Wally Brown Racing Recruits Janisch for ’23 Progressive AFT Season
DAVIDSON, N.C. (February 2, 2023) – Wally Brown Racing has recruited 2022 Mission Production Twins Champion Jesse Janisch to compete in the 2023 Progressive American Flat Track series.
Wally Brown Racing will step up to the premier Mission SuperTwins category after developing the WBR KTM 890 Duke into a two-time Mission Production Twins race winner with James Rispoli at the controls a year ago.
This season, WBR and Janisch will run a limited schedule with continued support from KTM North America. The effort will utilize both the established WBR KTM 890 Duke and the all-new WBR KTM 790 Duke as KTM shifts its focus to the 790 platform to prepare for the 2024 rules package.
The versatile Janisch has an extensive motorsports history, including dirt track, roadracing, supermoto, motocross, hillclimb, grass drag racing, and off-road racing. The Wisconsin native started racing professionally in 2003 and first made his name in Progressive AFT as a TT extraordinaire. In 2022, Janisch demonstrated his complete mastery of the sport, scoring seven victories and 13 podiums en route to the Mission Production Twins title.
“I’ve been able to witness the triumphs of the WBR program at the expense of my own successes in 2022,” Janisch said, “As they say – if you can’t beat them, join them! I cannot wait to jump on the new 790 platform that they’ve been hard at work on this winter and see where we shake out at our first round. I was fortunate to compete in several Mission SuperTwins Main Events in 2022. I’m ready to improve upon my results and turn some heads in the class in 2023.”
Jesse Janisch. Photo courtesy Wally Brown Racing.
“Wally and the WBR team really did an amazing job in 2022 showcasing the Ready to Race potential of our KTM 890 Duke platform in the Mission Production Twins class,” said Chris Fillmore, Flat Track Manager for KTM. “It was good to hear they are excited and willing to also get an early start with the all-new KTM 790 Duke platform in anticipation of the displacement reduction the series will introduce in 2024. The bar has been raised with the series going to a single Twins class in 2023, but based on the team’s quick successes in the past, I know they are motivated and ready for the challenge. Jesse proved last season he has what it takes on a twin by winning the Mission Production Twins Championship. We are for sure looking forward to seeing how things develop.”
Team owner Wally Brown said, “Our team is looking forward to taking what we learned in 2022 and applying it to a new program this year. It will be challenging, but I feel certain we can make progress on developing a competitive package. The KTM Duke is a well-built machine and gives us a lot to work with.”
WBR plans to compete at the Senoia Short Track in Senoia, Georgia, the Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky, the Bridgeport Half Mile in Bridgeport, New Jersey, and the Springfield Mile in Springfield, Illinois.
2023 KTM STREET RANGE FLASHES WITH A FRESH SELECTION OF NEW COLORWAYS
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM introduces new graphics and color updates across selected KTM 200 DUKE, KTM 390 DUKE and KTM RC 390 models to fill out the 2023 KTM STREET range, giving riders a chance to find a machine that matches their true READY TO RACE colors and spirit.
KTM roars into the new year with a fast-as-ever range of DUKE motorcycles, covering the full spectrum of road-going machines catering to all riders and riding types. At the starting point, KTM brings the small but mighty KTM 200 DUKE and KTM 390 DUKE Naked machines out to play. These lightweight, yet heavy-hitting, models include some new livery to set off their aggressive styling as they slide their way into the 2023 lineup, with the reintroduced KTM 790 DUKE, the bold KTM 890 DUKE R, and the range of BEASTS, namely the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO and the street-eating KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT—all introduced in November of 2022.
These incredible Naked machines are flanked by the impressive new generation Supersport weapon, the KTM RC 390, returning for 2023 in two eye-catching guises, one in the new GP orange and the other in the beloved, carry-over orange and blue, with hues taking their inspiration from the vibrant Grand Prix teams.
A 2023 KTM 200 Duke in its new gray and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM 200 DUKE
Thanks to its ultralight and playful single-cylinder 199.5 cc engine and 31.6-in (805-mm) low seat height, and the ever-present BEAST-inspired DNA, the KTM 200 DUKE delivers nothing less than an exhilarating ride in an approachable package. The aggressive styling of the 2023 KTM 200 DUKE is enhanced by a new gray and orange colorway featuring a black subframe and orange tailpiece. The beloved orange and black model, of course, will return for 2023 as well. Both models stand out with striking orange wheels.
A 2023 KTM 200 Duke in its black and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM 390 DUKE
The KTM 390 DUKE dominates the middle-weight segment with a punchy, fun-loving 373.2 cc DOHC engine, sporty WP APEX front and rear suspension and a full READY TO RACE compliment of technology including a PASC slipper clutch, BYBRE brakes, BOSCH ABS with standard Supermoto ABS and TFT display. The corner rocket receives two new colorway updates, with a vibrant orange and blue/gray option, and a stealthy black and gray adding a darker, more sinister shadow to the streets.
A 2023 KTM 390 Duke in its new orange and blue/gray color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
A 2023 KTM 390 Duke in its new black and gray color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM RC 390
There is no question that the latest generation of the KTM RC 390 takes READY TO RACE to heart with a full chromoly frame, bolt-on subframe, GP-derived ergonomics and electronic features not seen on many mid-sized Supersort models. Taking it to the top of the class and the podium, the compact yet powerful engine, adjustable WP APEX suspension and electronic wizardry including lean-angle sensitive (3D) Motorcycle Traction Control and BOSCH ABS with SUPERMOTO ABS deliver real-word racing credentials along with everyday ridability. This track-loving, commuting-ready model receives the KTM Orange treatment with the introduction of the GP Orange colorway, the eye-catching stablemate to the returning blue and orange machine.
A 2023 KTM RC 390 in its blue and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
2023 KTM 200 DUKE, KTM 390 DUKE and KTM RC 390 models will begin shipping March 2023. For more news about the 2023 KTM model range, visit KTM.COM or your nearest authorized KTM dealer.
A celebration of life event for Kevin Elliott, Sr. has been scheduled at 11:00 a.m. local time Sunday, February 5 at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodges at 325 Pandora Ave., Fort Pierce, Florida.
“Come celebrate the life of Kevin ‘Skippy’ Elliott with a karaoke party per his last request. We will have some food and drinks available. Cash only for the drinks. Let’s celebrate his life with all his friends and family together for one last hoorah,” read the event notification on Facebook.
Elliott, the former owner and longtime President of ASRA and CCS, died of liver failure on January 29 in Florida. He was 64.
PROVISIONAL 2023 NORTH AMERICA TALENT CUP SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED & FINAL CALL FOR ENTRIES
The 2023 provisional calendar has been announced—including rounds with MotoGP™ and MotoAmerica™–with the upcoming February 6th deadline for applications just over the horizon.
SEATTLE, WA – The anticipated 2023 NATC provisional calendar has been announced. The season will consist of seven rounds across the continental United States, with the opening round taking place alongside MotoGP™ for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, April 14-16.
Similar to the 2022 season, each round will be run by a hosting organization. MotoAmerica™ will again be integrally involved in the series, with rounds currently scheduled to run during national events at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama, and Ridge Motorsports Park in Washington. The seventh and final round of the series is yet to be determined.
Prospective competitors who meet eligibility requirements can now apply to participate in the 2023 North America Talent Cup. Applicants will have until February 6th, 2023 to submit their candidacy. The NATC is an official Road to MotoGP™ project.
Riders from all nationalities can apply, but the NATC aims to discover talent from across North America. After only one season, NATC alumni have already gone on to be selected for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup™, as well as for national race teams.
In its second season, the NATC grid will be limited to 22 entrants. Riders must be born between January 1st, 2006, and April 6th, 2009, to be a minimum age of 14 years old before the first round and a maximum age of 17 years old. Riders from different racing backgrounds can apply, with no road racing experience necessary as other disciplines can also translate into road racing success.
Individual riders can apply, but they must choose a team name and have a team manager. Riders must also have at least one mechanic and a legal guardian.
Any team application should specify a team manager, who will be the main contact with the organization, and can be comprised a rider and two mechanics. Mechanics can be family members or acquaintances.
About NATC The NATC is a one-make spec-series of teams and riders, using the successful Northern Talent Cup as a blueprint. The limit on entries is 22 riders between 14 and 16 years of age in 2023. The spec-motorcycle will be the Aprilia RS250 SP2; a machine developed by Aprilia in partnership with Ohvale and proven to offer a competitive platform for developing talent. The NATC is designed to create close competition in a cost-effective manner. The NATC will race throughout the continental U.S., with seven designated rounds taking place alongside MotoGP™, MotoAmerica™, and select clubs.
About the FIM North America FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
Editorial Note: The current World Superbike All-Time Lap Record for Algarve International Circuit is 1:39.610, which was set by Jonathan Rea in 2022. The current World Superbike Race Lap Record was also set by Jonathan Rea in 2022 at 1:40.135.
More, from a press release issued by Dorna WorldSBK Press Office:
Lap record breaking quartet emerges in Portimao
Bautista edges out Rea by only 0.009s, while Rinaldi and Razgatlioglu also had a strong showing to conclude testing on the Portuguese rollercoaster
Despite a small crash in the morning, Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) set the fastest lap on Day 2 of Portimao test as he lapped under the lap record.
Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Six-time WorldSBK Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was just 0.009s off Bautista’s fastest time, taking second place at the end of Day 2 with 68 laps completed.
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) took third place just 0.109s behind his teammate.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
2021 WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon Team) concluded his two-day testing in fourth place with a best time of 1:39.441s.
Iker Lecuona. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Iker Lecuona (Team HRC), who had a crash in the final sector in the morning, posted a 1’39.803s to take sixth spot as Honda looked to work on setups for the CBR1000RR-R machine.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the fastest rookie on Day 2 at Portimao as he finished in 7th place, 1.167s off Bautista’s best time.
Bradley Ray (28). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team’s Bradley Ray and MIE Racing’s Eric Granado concluded their first WorldSBK test.
Eric Granado. Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSBK Day 2 Report
There was plenty of lap record pace on display in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve on Day 2 of the two-day test in Portugal, with riders on the verge of breaking into the 1’38s for the first time in WorldSBK. Reigning Champion Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topped the times on day two by just 0.009s ahead of six-time Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK).
Bautista posted a 1’39.035s to obliterate Rea’s Superpole lap record from last year’s Portuguese Round. Bautista’s day, with the Spanish rider looking at bike stability, was disrupted by a crash at Turn 7 which brought out the red flag. His teammate was one of the four riders to go below the lap record with a 1’39.144s to take third place; backing up his top spot from Day 1. Rea, the lap record holder with a 1’39.610s from last year’s Tissot Superpole, took second spot and was only 0.009s slower than Bautista at the end of the day’s running with the six-time Champion testing some new items from Showa and looking at chassis balance. 2021 Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) was fourth fastest as he also went under Rea’s existing lap record, posting a 1’39.441s on his way to fourth spot. As at Jerez, there was a lot of focus on the rear of his Yamaha YZF R1 machine in order to improve grip exiting corners.
All riders and teams are now focused on the Official Test taking place ahead of the season opening round on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st February at Phillip Island.
Read the full report from Day 2 in Portimao on worldsbk.com
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Portimão the stage for another constructive Team HRC test before the squad travels to Australia
Team HRC and its factory Superbike riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge have completed a further two days testing at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, following on from last week’s positive sessions at Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.
On track on both Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 1 February, the team again benefitted from dry and sunny weather conditions, which enabled them to complete a range of different tests.
Vierge suffered a small crash mid-way through Tuesday’s session but was fortunately unhurt, his team working fast to repair his bike so that he could get straight back to work. The Team HRC duo completed close to 70 laps each on day one, with the work centring around bike set-up, electronics and geometries, much as it did last week at Jerez.
Day two saw the team continue with its work programme and successfully complete almost all of what it had planned for this week’s test. Lecuona was the victim of an innocuous crash during the morning but fortunately sustained no injuries. Lecuona and Vierge clocked up many more kilometres aboard the CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE, which provided the technicians with a great deal of useful data.
Team HRC will now continue to make final preparations ahead of the official tests that will take place at Phillip Island, Australia on 20-21 February, immediately prior to the opening round of the 2023 Superbike World Championship, which will run at the same circuit over the weekend of 24-26 February.
Iker Lecuona 7
“I’m generally quite happy with these two days of testing, particularly today, more than I was with the Jerez sessions to be honest. It’s true that we started the day with a fast crash at corner thirteen. I just touched the front brake and lost the bike – perhaps I was a little over confident entering the corner. I was thankfully unhurt, but my bike came off worse so apologies to my team and a big than-you to them for fixing the bike perfectly and quickly – they did an amazing job. We’ve tested a lot of things but mainly focused on trying to feel good aboard the bike and on stopping and turning. At Jerez we basically tested everything, trying new items and a lot of different settings, and we ultimately struggled. Here I felt much better, especially on the second day. We’re still lacking something because there is still a gap to the top in terms of lap times but we’re there in terms of pace. We carried out a race simulation at the end of the day and I was able to be constant and fast until the end, something that I wasn’t able to do last year, so I can say we leave here happy. Now we’ll have to see where we are when we get to Australia.”
Xavi Vierge 97
“We already worked well at Jerez last week, but during those sessions we were testing many things and looking for a direction, while here we already started out with a clearer base. Lap after lap we’ve improved, both in terms of performance and feeling, and have better understood how to move forward. I’m sorry for the crash on day one but the team worked well, and we were then able to enjoy a trouble-free afternoon and second day. This test has been about putting everything together, and this has given me confidence. We still have work to do but I definitely think we’ve taken a step forward. Today was another really good day for us, especially in the morning when we worked with the hard tyre. Our race pace is really good, and it was just a pity that we weren’t able to exploit the soft tyre when the time came for a time attack, but we encountered some small issues that prevented us from completing a fast lap. Having said that, the important thing is that we had good feeling on the bike on the hard tyre, because we will race on that spec here at Portimão and we improved a lot compared to last year. We’ve enjoyed a good pre-season in Europe and now have a lot of data to analyze before we take a small break and then it’s next stop, Australia.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
A convincing two-days for Bautista (P1) and Rinaldi (P3) at Portimao Circuit (Portugal). Positive sessions also for Nicolò Bulega (P1 in WorldSSP)
The second session of winter testing has just concluded at the Portimao Circuit where the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team got on track for two intense days of work.
Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi proved to be in an excellent form, finding a convincing feeling with their respective Ducati Panigale V4R machines from the very first laps of Day-1
The Spaniard concluded the Portimao test with the fastest time (1’39.035) while Michael Rinaldi – after being the fastest on Day 1 – was able to lower his time by half a second today to close with a solid 1’39.144, just 109 thousandths of a second behind his team-mate.
The next stop for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team will be at the Phillip Island circuit (Australia) when the final winter tests will take place on 20 and 21 February, just three days before the first round of the 2023 season.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #1)
“We did a good job at both Jerez and Portimao tests. The time we set today is not very important. What gives us great confidence is the feeling with the bike, which is really positive. We did a great job with the team, trying to pay attention to even the smallest details. I can’t wait to be in Australia”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“We started these tests very well, closing the first day with the best time. I expected everyone to be faster today but we’ve also made important steps forward. I’m very satisfied, especially because with my team we managed to follow the program we had agreed, laying a solid foundation that will undoubtedly help us in the future”.
WorldSSP
Nicolò Bulega confirmed at Portimao the good sensations he felt aboard his Ducati Panigale V2 during the previous test at Jerez de la Frontera. After finishing Day 1 in first position in the Supersport classification, on Day 2 the Italian rider was able to lower his time by almost six tenths, confirming his first place among WorldSSP riders with a fastest lap of 1’42.636.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #11)
“These were two very important tests. I immediately found a very good feeling with my bike also thanks to the excellent work done by my team. The sensations are positive and this will allow us to arrive in the best conditions in Australia. We are ready for an intense season in which we certainly cannot hide our ambitions”.
More, from a press release issued by MIE Racing Honda Team:
Two valuable days of testing at Portimão for the MIE Racing Honda Team
The MIE Racing Honda Team has been out at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal for some important test sessions this week as it continues to prepare for the 2023 Superbike World Championship. Riders Hafizh Syahrin and Eric Granado were both in attendance and rode half a day each on both Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 1 February, alongside other Superbike teams including the factory Honda squad.
Weather conditions fortunately remained dry and sunny throughout, allowing the team to complete a wide variety of tests on many new items they had to test for the first time and giving rookie Granado the chance to build further confidence with the CBR1000RR-R. While the Brazilian completed a brief test at Jerez in December, these sessions marked Syahrin’s first opportunity to ride since the conclusion of the 2022 WorldSBK championship. The test was therefore very important, allowing both riders to get back into the riding ‘groove’ after a period away from the tracks.
The MIE Racing Honda Team is doing all it can to ensure its riders are comfortable aboard the bike and so the technicians have worked hard on bike set-up and geometry as they look for a base set-up for the CBR. Both team and riders are satisfied with what they have accomplished this week and will now continue the preparations back at base, so as to be ready for the final pre-season tests, set to take place on 20-21 February at Phillip Island, Australia, just a few days prior to the championship’s opening round at the same circuit.
Hafizh Syahrin
“Eric and I completed two half days of testing each here at Portimao. I rode yesterday afternoon and again this morning, so essentially one day in total. We’ve tested an updated version of the bike, a completely new package that includes a new swingarm, so it was not to easy to find a base set-up in such short time. I basically tried to complete as many laps as possible in order to understand as much as possible and to provide feedback to the team. It is very important to arrive in Australia with at least a base from which to start during the official test, where we will need to focus 100% on moving our package in the right direction. These two days have also allowed me to get used to the bike again and try to get the body back up to full power and speed after a two-month break. As I said, when we arrive in Australia we will approach the work differently and concentrate more on refining set-up. I know our times here were not very close to the top, but this was our first test while the others already had a session at Jerez. We nevertheless found good feeling on the bike and this is very important.”
Eric Granado
“It was a positive test because I was able to test the bike for the first time in the dry. This was very good because it meant I could start to understand how the bike works in dry conditions. This was also my first experience of riding at Portimão with the Superbike, so not easy of course because this track is very technical and difficult, and it took me a long time to find the lines. But I had fun, and we did a lot of work with the team to understand how everything works. We tried some new parts that Honda brought us, so this meant we spent a lot of time in the garage changing things, mainly electronics and set-up to make the bike work better with this new upgrade. So, unfortunately, this meant I didn’t complete as many laps as I would have liked but at least we lapped in the dry, without focusing on times and without putting in soft tyres to make a time attack, simply focusing on ourselves to understand how to work better together. Then during the tests in Australia and especially in the first race, we’ll give it our all to put in the best possible performance.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
European Tests Complete For KRT
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes took part in two sunny days of testing at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve between 31 January and 1 February at what was the final European-based sessions before the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship season begins in Australia at the end of the month.
The 4.592km long Portuguese circuit, located in the hills above many popular holiday resorts on the Algarve coast, is a very different challenge from the previous testing venue of Jerez, which the team tested at last week.
Both official KRT riders found that recent improvements in the base settings of their Ninja ZX-10RRs transferred well for ther most part to the undulating nature of the Portimao track. Each had their own programme of work to conclude before the team’s flight cases get loaded up in readiness for the long journey to Australia.
Rea was the second quickest rider of all at Portimao, even though he did not have a bike set-up to maximise his outright pace when he used the softer tyre options. He was a narrow 0.009 seconds from fastest rider Alvaro Bautista, with Rea setting a 1’39.044 personal best lap on the second day.
Lowes worked exclusively on race pace and preparations for the new season, after losing some available track time on the final morning at Portimao. Alex’s best lap of the tests was set on day one, with a 1.40.264, placing him 9th fastest overall on the aggregated times. He set 72 laps on day one and 56 on day two of the Portimao tests.
With the European element of the pre-season testing schedule complete, there will be two days of official testing at the legendary Phillip Island circuit, on 20-21 February, before the start of the 2023 season itself the following weekend.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “Our test was positive. Again, we were just step-by-step working with the new electronics guys, and the changes they made to my requests. So we have more of an understanding, a good understanding, already. Of course, it is still a work in progress. From the testing side today we had some development rear tyres from Pirelli to try. Last week in the Jerez test we had front tyres to test, this time it was two different options of SCX rears. The track was in strange shape because I was much better with harder compound tyres than softer tyres. Every time we put a softer tyre in, trying to make a time attack, the lap time wasn’t coming. From a chassis point of view we tried a couple of new items at this test that influenced the bike in a really positive direction, so I feel we have made a step. You never really know until the lights go out but I think that we have had a decent winter, albeit a short one. I am quite happy with our two days work at Portimao.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “I did all my work on the SC0 rear tyres today so until I look at the time sheets properly I won’t know what my final pace was like. I had a small crash at T5 today, on that bump on the way in, which was annoying. But, in general, I feel quite good on the bike. I tried to do a lot of work on used tyres, because in winter testing 1’39.0 laps times are sound, but they do not improve the bike set-up too much. We need to really work in race conditions so that we can fight in the races. I have been trying to do that here and hopefully the hard work will pay off in Australia and we can have good races there. We can improve the package a bit but I think there is a little bit more to go.”
Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Jonathan Rea, stated: “We are happy with the tests. We have some different items in some areas from last year to this year, and we tested them for the first time in Jerez. Here in Portimao what we did is confirm them and also try to build the starting point we will use in Australia. We reached all the expectations we had and honestly I am quite pleased with the job done by all the guys. The new electronics staff, Christophe and Sander, are working very well. We are understanding each other step-by-step. Johnny was very pleased and very happy, and at the same time he was going fast. At the end of the day, we are on the line that we expected to be on and we are ready to go to Australia.”
Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We did most of our laps over half race distance each time we made a pit exit today, so we have prepared ourselves mainly for race conditions. Last year at the final test of the year, and at the race in Phillip Island, we were very competitive. We improved our performance. Here, we only used the hardest option rear tyre and we are now ready for the Phillip Island official tests and the first round of the new season.”
Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was also out on track at Portimao, finishing up the tenth quickest rider over two days as he returns to WorldSBK from racing in the BSB championship in 2022.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Complete Positive Portimão Test
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli finished the final two days of winter testing in Europe at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK today, as the team nears the start of the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship.
Picture-perfect Portuguese weather allowed the #54 and #55 riders to complete nearly 300 combined laps and test a variety of new development parts in order to assist Yamaha’s engineers in finalising the 2023 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK race package.
Razgatlıoğlu posted an impressive lap time on Pirelli’s X tyre with a 1’39.441, faster than the WorldSBK lap record, but was unable to test the softer qualifying tyre due to cooler track conditions than the compound’s optimum range. The 26-year-old finished the test in fourth position for outright lap pace and completed a total of 121 laps across the two days.
Teammate Locatelli also impressed in his work ethic to complete a massive 173 laps as well as his ability to take a step in performance, confidence and outright pace.
The season-opener in Australia at Phillip Island kicks off with a WorldSBK Official Test on 20-21 February before the race weekend starts on 24-26 February. For the team, the “long haul” starts even sooner, with the preparation of just over five tonnes of race equipment including its 2023 R1 WorldSBK race machines to depart from Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK’s UK home at Crescent Yamaha in Dorset.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu – 1’39.441
“Today we had a really good start and I felt good – I used the X race tyre and see very good lap time, 39.4 – I think is very good lap time but here the track condition changed a lot during the day. And after we work with the new parts and new swing arm, and end of today I use again the old one because we check which one is better. Finally, my feeling on the bike is much better with the whole package and I am confident. I don’t have a time for the Q tyre today, because you know, end of the day very cold. So I say, I don’t need Q tyre and also I did the very good lap time with X tyre. Maybe next time I am trying 1.38! I am ready for the season and ready for the fighting.”
Andrea Locatelli – 1’39.705
“It was another great day of testing today – okay, the second day was a bit difficult in the beginning because yesterday I rode a lot, 85 laps! With the long run yesterday in the afternoon, I was a little bit tired but today we were riding a lot also and in the end we found a really good set-up and I have a really good confidence with the bike. This is important to arrive in Phillip Island in a good way. To be honest, I am really happy – because we did not have any mistakes and we understand some parts of the bike really well. And, the weather was good! We will see what happens in Phillip Island, but we close this test in a really good way. I think we can start immediately with a really good feeling and try to push – I can’t wait to start and to fight in the first race.”
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK:
“We were blessed with stable and relatively warm conditions for the time of year here in Portimao – which enabled the Pata Yamaha Prometeon squad to get through a serious amount of work! For Loka, these two days were simply his best test since joining the team at the end of 2020. He covered a massive 173 laps and displayed fantastic pace both in terms of consistency and ultimate outright lap time. A great job by Andrea and all of his crew to get through the amount that they did! We hoped Loka would take a step this season, and the approach that he has taken in this test and the confidence that he’s displayed on the bike would indicate that we’ve started to move forward. Toprak, having been quickest on both days in Jerez, faced a few more challenges here in terms of evaluating new parts and – as is often the case with winter testing – suffered a few backwards steps before regaining positive momentum. In the end his test result in terms of long runs completed and ultimate lap times was maybe not exactly what we hoped for, but most importantly whenever his R1 package was to his liking, Toprak as always was immediately blisteringly fast. Phillip Island next is going to be a challenge – our competitors have taken a step forward, but we can’t wait for the season to start.”
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Gardner and Aegerter Continued their Adaptation in Portimao Test
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK duo concluded a two-days of test in Portimao on 31st January-1st February, finding good lap times despite being not able to put together their best splits in a single lap to maximise the effort.
Remy Gardner and Dominique Aegerter kept working on their Yamaha R1 machines, trying many things improve the feeling on the bikes. On Day 1, the Australian completed 86 laps to find himself 9th (1’40.667), while his Swiss teammate finished with 88 in 16th (1’41.432).
Twenty-four hours later, the GRT duo focused on their qualifying performance in the final minutes: Gardner went 7th fastest (1.40.202, 90 laps), while Aegerter concluded in 15th (1.40.844, 83 laps). Both struggled on finding a clean one-shot lap; indeed, the #87 and the #77 rider have a better ideal time on their hands, which leave them confident for the beginning of the season.
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team will now move on to Australia on 20th-21st February for the Official Test in Phillip Island ahead of the beginning of the season which will take place at the same venue on 24th-26th February.
Remy Gardner: P11 – 1’40.202, 176 laps
“Two more days of testing, that was good. We improved even though we just struggled a little bit to find the correct way on day 2, but at the end we managed to improve the time. We got more experience before Phillip Island, I’m looking forward to that test to be ready for the beginning of the season.”
Dominique Aegerter: P21 – 1’40.844, 171 laps
“Riding in Portimao is always amazing, but really demanding as well. I still need to get used to the big bike, it has a lot of power and strong brakes. We tried many stuffs and I think we could not really take the full potential, but we got some good data to work on, over a basic setup that we can have for the season.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
LAST STOP PORTIMAO; NOW LET’S FLY TO AUSTRALIA!
Intense last week for the WorldSBK circus; after the two days in Jerez, the protagonists moved to Portimao, the splendid ups and downs of the Algarve, for an important practice session before flying to Australia, where the real 2023 debut will take place!
In Jerez, Philipp struggled to find the right feeling with the new Ducati Panigale V4-R; the riding position was the main problem to solve, in order to then concentrate the work on the set-up. Between the two tests, thanks to the work of the technicians, with the creation of special appendices on the tank, and to a lowered seat, the German rider immediately found good confidence. During the first day, Oettl was able to make a comparison between some components from last season and the new ones, so as to better adapt to the differences in behaviour. In the afternoon, then, he was able to make good use of the 2022 tyres supplied (some factory teams tested a new development of the softer compound), riding in 1.40.846 with the qualifying tyre. On the second day he immediately found an excellent feeling with the SC0, the harder compound, right from the morning. First, he stopped within four tenths of his personal best from the previous day, then he even managed to improve the time set on the qualifying tyre by a tenth. In the afternoon, which was slightly colder than yesterday the team tried to put on a couple of soft tyres, but perhaps the conditions weren’t optimal to try the time attack, thus maintaining the reference set in the late morning with “race” configuration. During day 2, the technicians had the opportunity to work on the rear shock absorber and on the electronics, trying to understand the feeling from the new swingarm and the bike in the 2023 configuration. Excellent data collected, so as to be able to analyse it, evaluate what can be improved, both in technical terms and speaking about riding style. The Go Eleven rider’s ideal time is really strong, faster than the time set, as he was unable to put together a proper fast lap.
Philipp still has to find something, he lacks a few tenths and a little confidence before he can be satisfied with the pre-season work; for this, the two pre-Australia days will be fundamental, where the official tests of WorldSBK 2023 will take place. A clear step forward, however, compared to Jerez, as we have seen, which gives Philipp a big boost in view of the (real) seasonal debut, when it will be essential to be fast and constant!
COMBINED RESULTS:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.39.035
P 2 J. Rea + 0.009
P 3 M. Rinaldi + 0.109
P 4 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.406
P 5 A. Locatelli + 0.670
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.754
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Another two interesting days of testing, I think these were much more productive compared to Jerez, especially cause we could compare both bikes, and I could adapt better to the new seat position. This was a really big step, now I feel comfortable on the new bike. Then we started working on the electronics and suspensions. I think we collected a lot of informations, from these two days, I think now it’s really important to put everything together for the Australian Round. There we will have two days of tests more, that’s quite a good luck for us, cause I still miss something and I don’t feel completely ready to race. In Portimao we found the right way to follow, and I am really optimistic for the first race! ”
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“Two very positive days here in Portimao, where we found the right ergonomics for the 2023 Ducati. Philipp found the correct feeling and was able to push, starting to work on the set-up and electronics. The objective of the test was done, but obviously it is only the starting point, we still have to find the optimal feeling he had last year in Australia. Now we will have to make the flight cases, time is very little and we still have a lot of work to do, we leave for Australia, the first round of the 2023 season. We are excited because the level of the riders and teams on track is as high as ever, but we know we have the potential to do well and get some satisfaction!”
Long Beach, CA (February 2023) – Saddlemen is excited to announce that it has joined forces with Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle and Mission Foods for MotoAmerica’s 2023 King Of The Baggers Class and Mission Foods Super Hooligans Series set for eight rounds this year in conjunction with MotoAmerica.
In 2023, veteran riders Cory West and Patricia Fernandez-West will continue to represent Team Saddlemen along with two newcomers, Frankie Garcia and Jake Lewis. We are excited to expand this year with Frankie and Jake joining the team to ride in the Mission King Of The Baggers class.
Cory West #13, Patricia Fernandez-West #87, Frankie Garcia #14, and Jake Lewis #85 will each ride a race-prepped 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide® Limited motorcycle wrapped in matching Saddlemen race carbon-fiber bodywork and powered by a Screamin’ Eagle Twin-Cooled™ 131ci Milwaukee-Eight powertrain in the Mission King of the Baggers class.
Cory and Patricia will also compete again this season in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan Series. New for 2023 each will be riding a stripped-down and highly modified Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 featuring Saddlemen’s latest carbon-fiber race bodywork.
Expanding our effort in 2023, Hoban Brothers Racing is joining Team Saddlemen and will facilitate the team’s racing effort on the track. All of our Road Glide® motorcycles will use the recently available factory-developed racing parts from Harley-Davidson and Screamin’ Eagle. We are confident it will be an exciting year with a larger team filled with extraordinarily talented and experienced riders, partners, and sponsors, including Harley-Davidson, Screamin’ Eagle, Mission Foods, Darkhorse Motor Company, Suicide Machine Company, Motul, NAMZ Custom Cycle Products, and 4SR.
Saddlemen is an American company based in Long Beach, California, specializing in motorcycle seats and luggage. Known as the “Gel Seat Experts” since 1987, our goal has been to improve comfort, control, and overall riding experience for millions of motorcyclists worldwide.
With over 200 employees, we are riders and builders who enjoy practically everything motorcycle. Over the last 35 years, the Saddlemen team has participated in everything from Flat Track to MotoGP. Now, we are excited to announce our participation in the 2023 season of MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers, and Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship by Roland Sands Design. As many people already know, racing is one of the best places to test new products, and at Saddlemen, every trip to the race track or smooth ride on the open road is an opportunity to refine the products we are proud to share with our customers.
MRA racers David Lambert (28) and Mike Applegate (79) battle for position at Pikes Peak International Raceway. Photo by Kelly Vernell, courtesy MRA.
When the Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) published its 2023 season schedule in November of last year, they believed the dates were locked in, but due to circumstances beyond their control, a couple of conflicts arose. As a result, some changes had to be made. The season will still include two New Racer Schools, and the full season championship series will still consist of seven Race Rounds, five of which at High Plains Raceway (HPR), using three different track configurations, one round at Pikes Peak International Raceway (PPIR), and one round at Pueblo Motorsports Park. Below is the updated and final 2023 MRA Season Schedule:
2023 Motorcycle Roadracing Association Race Schedule
April 7-8 – New Racer School #1 at HPR (Full Course)
May 6-7 – Round 1 at HPR (Full Course)
June 3-4 – Round 2 at PPIR
June 17 – New Racer School #2 and MRA Trackday at Pueblo Motorsports Park
June 24-25 – Round 3 at HPR (West Course)
July 15-16 – Round 4 at HPR (Full Course) + 4-hour endurance
July 29-30 – Round 5 at Pueblo Motorsports Park
August 26-27 – Round 6 at HPR (North Course)
September 23-24 – Round 7 at HPR (Full Course)
The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.
Josh Waters (21) at speed on his Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. Photo courtesy ASBK.
Josh Waters sets the tone for season 2023: He’s the man to beat.
The final day of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) Official Test was set to be an all-daylight affair after last night’s all-important under-lights session.
A 36-degree forecast greeted all assembled but the early running was overcast and mercifully under those frankly hideous numbers.
The promised 36 degrees never arrived, but we did get over 60-degree track temperatures as a consolation prize.
None of these were as hot as the on-track action. The top six in superbike topped Alex Criville’s 1996 500GP lap time on the mighty Honda NSR 2-stroke aboard their 2023 spec ASBK machines.
The test uncovered some new gems, reaffirmed the talent of others and set the stage perfectly for the 2023 season of racing.
Alpinestars Superbike
The early part of the first session for SBK was overcast and the sun poked through shortly after the start to really heat up the track and see who had carry over form from the cooler night before.
Broc Pearson on the DesmoSport Ducati had the top spot for perhaps a minute before Yamaha Racing’s Cru Halliday asserted himself as he is want to do. McMartin Racing’s Josh Waters was having none of that and was first to dip into the 1:29s and before Halliday had a chance to respond the red flag came out after Pearson went off at Turn Four.
The restart of the session saw Halliday trading fastest times with Josh Waters who – on his last flying lap – dropped an incredible 1:29.570 to dip well below both the pole and race lap records by 2/10ths and send the clearest possible message to the field that the Mildura born and bred Waters is back in ASBK in 2023 and is not here to mess about. Waters not only nailed the fastest ever two wheeled lap of the Sydney Motorsport Park Grand Prix layout, but he also hit 295km/h down the main straight. With several sessions to come, it’s over to Cru Halliday and Mike Jones (second and third for the session) to respond.
Practice six- the second for the day, saw the early running a Waters/Halliday show with Lachlan Epis up into fourth at times and Senna Agius fifth.
Herfoss was eighth for a lot of the session, seemingly “just testing new things”, but was able to make it work and jumped up into third late in the session.
Of the ASBK regulars (Agius and Epis are not set for a full season in SBK), Mike Jones was next in sixth, Broc Pearson was back in the hunt after an earlier crash in seventh, Max Stauffer was eighth, Ted Collins in ninth and Mark Chiodo on an ex-Penrite Honda in tenth.
Arthur Sissis had an engine/electronic issue in an earlier session and was back in eleventh, with Paris Hardwick twelfth.
Practice seven and the second-to-last session for SBK opened with Senna Agius briefly on top before that bloke Josh Waters spoiled the party once again, popping up with a 1:30.708.
A quieter session for the day, many riders opting to do short runs. The 30c+ air and 61c track temperature played a big role.
With 10 minutes to go, less than 5 bikes were on track and we finished with Waters, Herfoss, Agius and Halliday in fourth.
A reduced field hit the still hot track for the final session, but all the major championship contenders in on track.
And we can’t say this enough, but AGAIN it was Josh Waters king o’ the hill, master of the house, man to beat. Back into the 1:29s this time a 1:29.622 after a 1:29.8 the lap before.
If there was a statement being made, then we get it. Josh Waters is going to be a major contender in 2023, and not just here at SMSP. He’s a multi-time champion with the fastest bike in the paddock and backed by a team that has multiple championship wins.
And if Josh Waters at the top made it feel a bit olde school brigade then the sight of Max Stauffer second and Broc Pearson third in the final session ought give hope to the new crew coming through.
Mike Jones was in fourth and finally Arthur Sissis with it all together in fifth.
A huge season is fast approaching, and the test has only served to whet our appetites.
Alpinestars Superbike- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 21 Josh WATERS (VIC) 1:29.570
2 65 Cru HALLIDAY (NSW) 1:29.658
3 1 Mike JONES (QLD) 1:29.997
4 17 Troy HERFOSS (QLD) 1:30.024
5 4 Broc PEARSON (QLD) 1:30.235
6 83 Lachlan EPIS (NSW) 1:30.275
7 27 Max STAUFFER (NSW) 1:30.453
8 81 Senna AGIUS (NSW) 1:30.810
9 29 Ted COLLINS (VIC) 1:31.098
10 61 Arthur SISSIS (SA) 1:31.306
Michelin Supersport
The first session for the Supersport squads saw Harrison Voight at the top and left his fellow test attendees happy that Harrison will seek his racing fix in Europe in 2023.
Some .7 of a second behind was Sean Condon from 2022 Supersport Champions John Lytras. Jake Farnsworth was fourth with Scott Nicholson fifth.
The second session late in the morning was once again the Harrison Voight show with a 1.1 second gap to second placed Farnsworth with Tom Bramich third. Bramich had admitted that he had taken his bike back to base settings and was working from there. Third showed the evolution of that plan.
A crash from Scott Nicholson at turn six brought out the red flag for the session, and as the clock was run down, the session was called and ended.
The session after lunch saw soaring track temperatures of over 60c and Harrison Voight content to sit out the rest of the day after pretty much dominating the entire test to that point.
It fell to John Lytras to assert himself as in this session and he did so, but only by .0007 to Giuseppe Scarcella who had been thereabouts for much of the test, but now evidently had a fully sorted YZF-R6 under him. Cameron Dunker was third to show he’s very much ready for this big step from the 300 to the 600.
The final session of the entire test ended on a sour note. While it was Lytras on top from Condon and Farnsworth, the session ended with a red flag and multiple riders down.
Farnsworth crashed late in a lap and Dallas Skeer shortly after at nearly the same spot. Farnsworth was able to return to the pits, Skeer required medical attention.
While this was going on, Jonathan Nahlous crashed at turn 3 as the red flag was being deployed. With just a few minutes remining, the session was declared done and the medical team was busy for the next while, delaying the following sessions and ending the Supersport test days in an unfortunate fashion.
Michelin Supersport- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 29 Harrison VOIGHT (QLD) 1:32.138
2 26 Sean CONDON (NSW) 1:33.184
3 1 John LYTRAS (QLD) 1:33.335
4 49 Jake FARNSWORTH (NSW) 1:33.401
5 44 Tom BRAMICH (VIC) 1:33.620
6 3 Cameron DUNKER (NSW) 1:33.931
7 39 Scott NICHOLSON (VIC) 1:34.011
8 86 Dallas SKEER (SA) 1:34.145
9 47 Giuseppe SCARCELLA (NSW) 1:34.150
10 42 Jack PASSFIELD (NSW) 1:34.150
Supersport 300
A 9:30 am start for the first practice of the day for the three hundjees saw Cameron Swain sway the times his way with ‘veteran’ 300 racer Brandon Demmery up into second for the session. Brodie Gawith had improved on his consistency from the first day and was up to third.
A red flag interrupted the session when Cameron Dunker crashed his Moto3 bike, but the session resumed without issue and the top two improved their times.
The second session of the day saw Marcus Hamod electing to run a Moto3 bike, leaving Brandom Demmery the opportunity to show he’s not lost too much after sitting out much of 2022.
The 25-year-old Demmery took the fastest time of the session with Sam Pezzetta back into the top three and Brodie Gawith rounding out the top three.
The seventh session of the Official Test was Cameron Swain’s. After an OJC series win in 2021 and a mixed 2022, this year beckons Swain to greater things and after a number of podiums in 2022 in the Supersport 300 class, his opportunity awaits him.
Pezzetta was second with Brandom Demmery again thereabouts in third.
The final session of the test saw Cameron Swain end up on top again from Brodie Gawith and the ever-reliable Brandon Demmery.
In contrast to the Superport 600 machines, the smaller Supersport 300s kept it clean and crash-free to the checkered flag to round out a successful test at Sydney Motorsport Park.
Supersport 300- Combined times, ASBK Official Test, SMSP
1 13 Marcus HAMOD (NSW)1:44.633 189
2 11 Brandon DEMMERY (NSW) 1:44.811
3 26 Cameron SWAIN (QLD) 1:45.148 192
4 51 Sam PEZZETTA (SA) 1:45.251 189
5 25 Brodie GAWITH (VIC) 1:45.513 191
6 55 Steve SFORZIN (VIC) 1:45.713 195
7 57 Cooper ROWNTREE (SA) 1:46.131 189
8 17 Joshua NEWMAN (NSW) 1:46.349 191
9 12 Henry SNELL (QLD) 1:46.371
10 2 Luke JHONSTON (VIC) 1:46.470
bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup
First out in the morning, the top riders shuffled their order a touch, with first-year rider Riley Nauta who had been a top three contender last night dropping down to 12th and seemingly out of sorts. Topping the table was Bodie Page from his lookalike (and nemesis) Sam Drane in second. Valentino Knezovic continued his improvement and delivered on the promise he showed in 2022 and was third. OJC first-year riders Rikki Henry and Jed Fyffe were fourth and fifth.
While Bodie Page was the fastest for the session, he also had a get-off at turn five to apparently keep the OJC mechanic crew busy and the assembled media confused.
The later sessions saw Bodie Paige once again up top with Rikki Henry for company and brother Jake Paige a fast learner up into the top three.
For the majority of the OJC, working closely with the support team (including mum and dad!), it was a matter of getting into a rhythm and finding time here and there. Rider coach Garry McCoy was clear in his addresses with the riders; learn, progress and stay upright.
Mercifully, they largely listened and a terrific season of OJC awaits us.
Ducati's V21L MotoE electric prototype at speed on a racetrack. Photo courtesy Ducati.
MotoE™: the new era begins!
2023 welcomes Ducati as MotoE™ gets ready for more races, more rounds and more incredible competition powered by Enel X Way
Thursday, 02 February 2023
It’s 2023 and that means it’s time to get excited for the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship! No longer a Cup, the electric competition gains World Championship status this season, there’s a new manufacturer… and the calendar expands to eight rounds!
In 2023, MotoE™ welcomes Ducati as the single manufacturer, with plenty to look forward to as the grid switch machinery and get ready for the most comprehensive season ever. Eight rounds in seven countries sees MotoE™ join the MotoGP™ paddock from Le Mans, kicking off competition alongside the 1000th Grand Prix, and the season runs all the way through to Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. That’s every MotoGP™ stop in Europe between May and early September, creating a 16-race, eight-round, action-packed MotoE™ season.
The timetable also changes in 2023. MotoE™ kicks off the action at 8:25am on Fridays with Practice 1, before a second Practice session at 12:25pm. The P1+P2 times are combined to decide the direct entrants to Q1 and Q2, with qualifying beginning at 17:00. Q1 and Q2 qualifying remain live and free to watch on YouTube, giving everyone a taste of the electric action!
Saturday is now the showstopper for the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship. It’s race day – and nothing else! The two showdowns now both take place on Saturday afternoon, making it a true spectacle for fans at the track and viewers at home.
Race 1 kicks off the competition at 12:10 – right after qualifying for the MotoGP™ class – and it’s the first racing action of the weekend. Then there’s qualifying for Moto3™ and Moto2™ before the high-octane addition of the MotoGP™ Sprint every Saturday.
The action continues with MotoE™ as the electric competition, powered by Enel X Way, serves up more racing on super Saturday: Race 2 follows the MotoGP™ Sprint, with the lights out for the second showdown of the weekend at 16:10. That’s an action-packed event for MotoE™, giving the electric World Championship some incredible visibility and ensuring fans around the world get the best of this parallel path of sustainable innovation.
Make sure to tune in for the biggest MotoE™ season yet and download the full schedule below!
Alicia Busa Joins WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as Communications Manager
MONTEREY, Calif., February 2, 2023—WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is pleased to announce Alicia Busa has joined the management team as Communications Manager. She enters the organization with a strong background in marketing and hospitality and proven insight into event management. Not entirely new to WeatherTech Raceway, she previously was responsible for managing the media center and working closely with journalists last August during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.
“Alicia immediately jumped into the largest event of the year on only several days’ notice and executed a first-class environment for attending journalists,” said Barry Toepke, director of heritage events and public relations. “She took total responsibility while also lending design support to the marketing team. Her enthusiasm, intuition and do-whatever-it-takes mindset is a welcomed addition to the professional team as we embark on an exciting 2023 season.”
Alicia is passionate about community involvement and event planning. For the past three years, she has taken an active role on the planning committee for the Big Sur Food & Wine Foundation, a non-profit organization that benefits the local economy and supports the health, safety, education and arts of Big Sur. She also loves to volunteer her time on weekends to various community organizations.
Among Alicia’s responsibilities are working with journalists and media center management, creating a cohesive plan that encompasses marketing, communications, and digital media, and developing storylines to heighten brand awareness of the entire Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which includes the campgrounds. She will be the primary point of contact for journalists and series public relations teams and will work closely with Toepke.
Alicia may be contacted at: [email protected] or by calling 831-242-8275.
Tickets for the 2023 race season, which kicks off May 5-7 with the Trans Am SpeedFest and followed days later by the Motul Course de Monterey and the return of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship May 12-14, are available online at www.WeatherTechRaceway.com or by calling 831-242-8200.
The KTM-powered Wally Brown Racing flat track racebike. Photo courtesy AFT.
Wally Brown Racing Recruits Janisch for ’23 Progressive AFT Season
DAVIDSON, N.C. (February 2, 2023) – Wally Brown Racing has recruited 2022 Mission Production Twins Champion Jesse Janisch to compete in the 2023 Progressive American Flat Track series.
Wally Brown Racing will step up to the premier Mission SuperTwins category after developing the WBR KTM 890 Duke into a two-time Mission Production Twins race winner with James Rispoli at the controls a year ago.
This season, WBR and Janisch will run a limited schedule with continued support from KTM North America. The effort will utilize both the established WBR KTM 890 Duke and the all-new WBR KTM 790 Duke as KTM shifts its focus to the 790 platform to prepare for the 2024 rules package.
The versatile Janisch has an extensive motorsports history, including dirt track, roadracing, supermoto, motocross, hillclimb, grass drag racing, and off-road racing. The Wisconsin native started racing professionally in 2003 and first made his name in Progressive AFT as a TT extraordinaire. In 2022, Janisch demonstrated his complete mastery of the sport, scoring seven victories and 13 podiums en route to the Mission Production Twins title.
“I’ve been able to witness the triumphs of the WBR program at the expense of my own successes in 2022,” Janisch said, “As they say – if you can’t beat them, join them! I cannot wait to jump on the new 790 platform that they’ve been hard at work on this winter and see where we shake out at our first round. I was fortunate to compete in several Mission SuperTwins Main Events in 2022. I’m ready to improve upon my results and turn some heads in the class in 2023.”
Jesse Janisch. Photo courtesy Wally Brown Racing.
“Wally and the WBR team really did an amazing job in 2022 showcasing the Ready to Race potential of our KTM 890 Duke platform in the Mission Production Twins class,” said Chris Fillmore, Flat Track Manager for KTM. “It was good to hear they are excited and willing to also get an early start with the all-new KTM 790 Duke platform in anticipation of the displacement reduction the series will introduce in 2024. The bar has been raised with the series going to a single Twins class in 2023, but based on the team’s quick successes in the past, I know they are motivated and ready for the challenge. Jesse proved last season he has what it takes on a twin by winning the Mission Production Twins Championship. We are for sure looking forward to seeing how things develop.”
Team owner Wally Brown said, “Our team is looking forward to taking what we learned in 2022 and applying it to a new program this year. It will be challenging, but I feel certain we can make progress on developing a competitive package. The KTM Duke is a well-built machine and gives us a lot to work with.”
WBR plans to compete at the Senoia Short Track in Senoia, Georgia, the Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky, the Bridgeport Half Mile in Bridgeport, New Jersey, and the Springfield Mile in Springfield, Illinois.
The 2023 KTM RC 390 is available in a new GP Orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
2023 KTM STREET RANGE FLASHES WITH A FRESH SELECTION OF NEW COLORWAYS
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM introduces new graphics and color updates across selected KTM 200 DUKE, KTM 390 DUKE and KTM RC 390 models to fill out the 2023 KTM STREET range, giving riders a chance to find a machine that matches their true READY TO RACE colors and spirit.
KTM roars into the new year with a fast-as-ever range of DUKE motorcycles, covering the full spectrum of road-going machines catering to all riders and riding types. At the starting point, KTM brings the small but mighty KTM 200 DUKE and KTM 390 DUKE Naked machines out to play. These lightweight, yet heavy-hitting, models include some new livery to set off their aggressive styling as they slide their way into the 2023 lineup, with the reintroduced KTM 790 DUKE, the bold KTM 890 DUKE R, and the range of BEASTS, namely the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO and the street-eating KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT—all introduced in November of 2022.
These incredible Naked machines are flanked by the impressive new generation Supersport weapon, the KTM RC 390, returning for 2023 in two eye-catching guises, one in the new GP orange and the other in the beloved, carry-over orange and blue, with hues taking their inspiration from the vibrant Grand Prix teams.
A 2023 KTM 200 Duke in its new gray and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM 200 DUKE
Thanks to its ultralight and playful single-cylinder 199.5 cc engine and 31.6-in (805-mm) low seat height, and the ever-present BEAST-inspired DNA, the KTM 200 DUKE delivers nothing less than an exhilarating ride in an approachable package. The aggressive styling of the 2023 KTM 200 DUKE is enhanced by a new gray and orange colorway featuring a black subframe and orange tailpiece. The beloved orange and black model, of course, will return for 2023 as well. Both models stand out with striking orange wheels.
A 2023 KTM 200 Duke in its black and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM 390 DUKE
The KTM 390 DUKE dominates the middle-weight segment with a punchy, fun-loving 373.2 cc DOHC engine, sporty WP APEX front and rear suspension and a full READY TO RACE compliment of technology including a PASC slipper clutch, BYBRE brakes, BOSCH ABS with standard Supermoto ABS and TFT display. The corner rocket receives two new colorway updates, with a vibrant orange and blue/gray option, and a stealthy black and gray adding a darker, more sinister shadow to the streets.
A 2023 KTM 390 Duke in its new orange and blue/gray color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
A 2023 KTM 390 Duke in its new black and gray color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM RC 390
There is no question that the latest generation of the KTM RC 390 takes READY TO RACE to heart with a full chromoly frame, bolt-on subframe, GP-derived ergonomics and electronic features not seen on many mid-sized Supersort models. Taking it to the top of the class and the podium, the compact yet powerful engine, adjustable WP APEX suspension and electronic wizardry including lean-angle sensitive (3D) Motorcycle Traction Control and BOSCH ABS with SUPERMOTO ABS deliver real-word racing credentials along with everyday ridability. This track-loving, commuting-ready model receives the KTM Orange treatment with the introduction of the GP Orange colorway, the eye-catching stablemate to the returning blue and orange machine.
A 2023 KTM RC 390 in its blue and orange color scheme. Photo courtesy KTM.
2023 KTM 200 DUKE, KTM 390 DUKE and KTM RC 390 models will begin shipping March 2023. For more news about the 2023 KTM model range, visit KTM.COM or your nearest authorized KTM dealer.
A celebration of life event for Kevin Elliott, Sr. has been scheduled at 11:00 a.m. local time Sunday, February 5 at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodges at 325 Pandora Ave., Fort Pierce, Florida.
“Come celebrate the life of Kevin ‘Skippy’ Elliott with a karaoke party per his last request. We will have some food and drinks available. Cash only for the drinks. Let’s celebrate his life with all his friends and family together for one last hoorah,” read the event notification on Facebook.
Elliott, the former owner and longtime President of ASRA and CCS, died of liver failure on January 29 in Florida. He was 64.
The start of a North America Talent Cup race at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in 2022. Photo by Fast Glass Media, courtesy NATC.
PROVISIONAL 2023 NORTH AMERICA TALENT CUP SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED & FINAL CALL FOR ENTRIES
The 2023 provisional calendar has been announced—including rounds with MotoGP™ and MotoAmerica™–with the upcoming February 6th deadline for applications just over the horizon.
SEATTLE, WA – The anticipated 2023 NATC provisional calendar has been announced. The season will consist of seven rounds across the continental United States, with the opening round taking place alongside MotoGP™ for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, April 14-16.
Similar to the 2022 season, each round will be run by a hosting organization. MotoAmerica™ will again be integrally involved in the series, with rounds currently scheduled to run during national events at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama, and Ridge Motorsports Park in Washington. The seventh and final round of the series is yet to be determined.
Prospective competitors who meet eligibility requirements can now apply to participate in the 2023 North America Talent Cup. Applicants will have until February 6th, 2023 to submit their candidacy. The NATC is an official Road to MotoGP™ project.
Riders from all nationalities can apply, but the NATC aims to discover talent from across North America. After only one season, NATC alumni have already gone on to be selected for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup™, as well as for national race teams.
In its second season, the NATC grid will be limited to 22 entrants. Riders must be born between January 1st, 2006, and April 6th, 2009, to be a minimum age of 14 years old before the first round and a maximum age of 17 years old. Riders from different racing backgrounds can apply, with no road racing experience necessary as other disciplines can also translate into road racing success.
Individual riders can apply, but they must choose a team name and have a team manager. Riders must also have at least one mechanic and a legal guardian.
Any team application should specify a team manager, who will be the main contact with the organization, and can be comprised a rider and two mechanics. Mechanics can be family members or acquaintances.
About NATC The NATC is a one-make spec-series of teams and riders, using the successful Northern Talent Cup as a blueprint. The limit on entries is 22 riders between 14 and 16 years of age in 2023. The spec-motorcycle will be the Aprilia RS250 SP2; a machine developed by Aprilia in partnership with Ohvale and proven to offer a competitive platform for developing talent. The NATC is designed to create close competition in a cost-effective manner. The NATC will race throughout the continental U.S., with seven designated rounds taking place alongside MotoGP™, MotoAmerica™, and select clubs.
About the FIM North America FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
Editorial Note: The current World Superbike All-Time Lap Record for Algarve International Circuit is 1:39.610, which was set by Jonathan Rea in 2022. The current World Superbike Race Lap Record was also set by Jonathan Rea in 2022 at 1:40.135.
More, from a press release issued by Dorna WorldSBK Press Office:
Lap record breaking quartet emerges in Portimao
Bautista edges out Rea by only 0.009s, while Rinaldi and Razgatlioglu also had a strong showing to conclude testing on the Portuguese rollercoaster
Despite a small crash in the morning, Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) set the fastest lap on Day 2 of Portimao test as he lapped under the lap record.
Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Six-time WorldSBK Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was just 0.009s off Bautista’s fastest time, taking second place at the end of Day 2 with 68 laps completed.
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) took third place just 0.109s behind his teammate.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
2021 WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon Team) concluded his two-day testing in fourth place with a best time of 1:39.441s.
Iker Lecuona. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Iker Lecuona (Team HRC), who had a crash in the final sector in the morning, posted a 1’39.803s to take sixth spot as Honda looked to work on setups for the CBR1000RR-R machine.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the fastest rookie on Day 2 at Portimao as he finished in 7th place, 1.167s off Bautista’s best time.
Bradley Ray (28). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team’s Bradley Ray and MIE Racing’s Eric Granado concluded their first WorldSBK test.
Eric Granado. Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSBK Day 2 Report
There was plenty of lap record pace on display in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve on Day 2 of the two-day test in Portugal, with riders on the verge of breaking into the 1’38s for the first time in WorldSBK. Reigning Champion Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topped the times on day two by just 0.009s ahead of six-time Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK).
Bautista posted a 1’39.035s to obliterate Rea’s Superpole lap record from last year’s Portuguese Round. Bautista’s day, with the Spanish rider looking at bike stability, was disrupted by a crash at Turn 7 which brought out the red flag. His teammate was one of the four riders to go below the lap record with a 1’39.144s to take third place; backing up his top spot from Day 1. Rea, the lap record holder with a 1’39.610s from last year’s Tissot Superpole, took second spot and was only 0.009s slower than Bautista at the end of the day’s running with the six-time Champion testing some new items from Showa and looking at chassis balance. 2021 Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) was fourth fastest as he also went under Rea’s existing lap record, posting a 1’39.441s on his way to fourth spot. As at Jerez, there was a lot of focus on the rear of his Yamaha YZF R1 machine in order to improve grip exiting corners.
All riders and teams are now focused on the Official Test taking place ahead of the season opening round on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st February at Phillip Island.
Read the full report from Day 2 in Portimao on worldsbk.com
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Portimão the stage for another constructive Team HRC test before the squad travels to Australia
Team HRC and its factory Superbike riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge have completed a further two days testing at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, following on from last week’s positive sessions at Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.
On track on both Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 1 February, the team again benefitted from dry and sunny weather conditions, which enabled them to complete a range of different tests.
Vierge suffered a small crash mid-way through Tuesday’s session but was fortunately unhurt, his team working fast to repair his bike so that he could get straight back to work. The Team HRC duo completed close to 70 laps each on day one, with the work centring around bike set-up, electronics and geometries, much as it did last week at Jerez.
Day two saw the team continue with its work programme and successfully complete almost all of what it had planned for this week’s test. Lecuona was the victim of an innocuous crash during the morning but fortunately sustained no injuries. Lecuona and Vierge clocked up many more kilometres aboard the CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE, which provided the technicians with a great deal of useful data.
Team HRC will now continue to make final preparations ahead of the official tests that will take place at Phillip Island, Australia on 20-21 February, immediately prior to the opening round of the 2023 Superbike World Championship, which will run at the same circuit over the weekend of 24-26 February.
Iker Lecuona 7
“I’m generally quite happy with these two days of testing, particularly today, more than I was with the Jerez sessions to be honest. It’s true that we started the day with a fast crash at corner thirteen. I just touched the front brake and lost the bike – perhaps I was a little over confident entering the corner. I was thankfully unhurt, but my bike came off worse so apologies to my team and a big than-you to them for fixing the bike perfectly and quickly – they did an amazing job. We’ve tested a lot of things but mainly focused on trying to feel good aboard the bike and on stopping and turning. At Jerez we basically tested everything, trying new items and a lot of different settings, and we ultimately struggled. Here I felt much better, especially on the second day. We’re still lacking something because there is still a gap to the top in terms of lap times but we’re there in terms of pace. We carried out a race simulation at the end of the day and I was able to be constant and fast until the end, something that I wasn’t able to do last year, so I can say we leave here happy. Now we’ll have to see where we are when we get to Australia.”
Xavi Vierge 97
“We already worked well at Jerez last week, but during those sessions we were testing many things and looking for a direction, while here we already started out with a clearer base. Lap after lap we’ve improved, both in terms of performance and feeling, and have better understood how to move forward. I’m sorry for the crash on day one but the team worked well, and we were then able to enjoy a trouble-free afternoon and second day. This test has been about putting everything together, and this has given me confidence. We still have work to do but I definitely think we’ve taken a step forward. Today was another really good day for us, especially in the morning when we worked with the hard tyre. Our race pace is really good, and it was just a pity that we weren’t able to exploit the soft tyre when the time came for a time attack, but we encountered some small issues that prevented us from completing a fast lap. Having said that, the important thing is that we had good feeling on the bike on the hard tyre, because we will race on that spec here at Portimão and we improved a lot compared to last year. We’ve enjoyed a good pre-season in Europe and now have a lot of data to analyze before we take a small break and then it’s next stop, Australia.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
A convincing two-days for Bautista (P1) and Rinaldi (P3) at Portimao Circuit (Portugal). Positive sessions also for Nicolò Bulega (P1 in WorldSSP)
The second session of winter testing has just concluded at the Portimao Circuit where the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team got on track for two intense days of work.
Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi proved to be in an excellent form, finding a convincing feeling with their respective Ducati Panigale V4R machines from the very first laps of Day-1
The Spaniard concluded the Portimao test with the fastest time (1’39.035) while Michael Rinaldi – after being the fastest on Day 1 – was able to lower his time by half a second today to close with a solid 1’39.144, just 109 thousandths of a second behind his team-mate.
The next stop for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team will be at the Phillip Island circuit (Australia) when the final winter tests will take place on 20 and 21 February, just three days before the first round of the 2023 season.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #1)
“We did a good job at both Jerez and Portimao tests. The time we set today is not very important. What gives us great confidence is the feeling with the bike, which is really positive. We did a great job with the team, trying to pay attention to even the smallest details. I can’t wait to be in Australia”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“We started these tests very well, closing the first day with the best time. I expected everyone to be faster today but we’ve also made important steps forward. I’m very satisfied, especially because with my team we managed to follow the program we had agreed, laying a solid foundation that will undoubtedly help us in the future”.
WorldSSP
Nicolò Bulega confirmed at Portimao the good sensations he felt aboard his Ducati Panigale V2 during the previous test at Jerez de la Frontera. After finishing Day 1 in first position in the Supersport classification, on Day 2 the Italian rider was able to lower his time by almost six tenths, confirming his first place among WorldSSP riders with a fastest lap of 1’42.636.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #11)
“These were two very important tests. I immediately found a very good feeling with my bike also thanks to the excellent work done by my team. The sensations are positive and this will allow us to arrive in the best conditions in Australia. We are ready for an intense season in which we certainly cannot hide our ambitions”.
More, from a press release issued by MIE Racing Honda Team:
Two valuable days of testing at Portimão for the MIE Racing Honda Team
The MIE Racing Honda Team has been out at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal for some important test sessions this week as it continues to prepare for the 2023 Superbike World Championship. Riders Hafizh Syahrin and Eric Granado were both in attendance and rode half a day each on both Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 1 February, alongside other Superbike teams including the factory Honda squad.
Weather conditions fortunately remained dry and sunny throughout, allowing the team to complete a wide variety of tests on many new items they had to test for the first time and giving rookie Granado the chance to build further confidence with the CBR1000RR-R. While the Brazilian completed a brief test at Jerez in December, these sessions marked Syahrin’s first opportunity to ride since the conclusion of the 2022 WorldSBK championship. The test was therefore very important, allowing both riders to get back into the riding ‘groove’ after a period away from the tracks.
The MIE Racing Honda Team is doing all it can to ensure its riders are comfortable aboard the bike and so the technicians have worked hard on bike set-up and geometry as they look for a base set-up for the CBR. Both team and riders are satisfied with what they have accomplished this week and will now continue the preparations back at base, so as to be ready for the final pre-season tests, set to take place on 20-21 February at Phillip Island, Australia, just a few days prior to the championship’s opening round at the same circuit.
Hafizh Syahrin
“Eric and I completed two half days of testing each here at Portimao. I rode yesterday afternoon and again this morning, so essentially one day in total. We’ve tested an updated version of the bike, a completely new package that includes a new swingarm, so it was not to easy to find a base set-up in such short time. I basically tried to complete as many laps as possible in order to understand as much as possible and to provide feedback to the team. It is very important to arrive in Australia with at least a base from which to start during the official test, where we will need to focus 100% on moving our package in the right direction. These two days have also allowed me to get used to the bike again and try to get the body back up to full power and speed after a two-month break. As I said, when we arrive in Australia we will approach the work differently and concentrate more on refining set-up. I know our times here were not very close to the top, but this was our first test while the others already had a session at Jerez. We nevertheless found good feeling on the bike and this is very important.”
Eric Granado
“It was a positive test because I was able to test the bike for the first time in the dry. This was very good because it meant I could start to understand how the bike works in dry conditions. This was also my first experience of riding at Portimão with the Superbike, so not easy of course because this track is very technical and difficult, and it took me a long time to find the lines. But I had fun, and we did a lot of work with the team to understand how everything works. We tried some new parts that Honda brought us, so this meant we spent a lot of time in the garage changing things, mainly electronics and set-up to make the bike work better with this new upgrade. So, unfortunately, this meant I didn’t complete as many laps as I would have liked but at least we lapped in the dry, without focusing on times and without putting in soft tyres to make a time attack, simply focusing on ourselves to understand how to work better together. Then during the tests in Australia and especially in the first race, we’ll give it our all to put in the best possible performance.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
European Tests Complete For KRT
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes took part in two sunny days of testing at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve between 31 January and 1 February at what was the final European-based sessions before the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship season begins in Australia at the end of the month.
The 4.592km long Portuguese circuit, located in the hills above many popular holiday resorts on the Algarve coast, is a very different challenge from the previous testing venue of Jerez, which the team tested at last week.
Both official KRT riders found that recent improvements in the base settings of their Ninja ZX-10RRs transferred well for ther most part to the undulating nature of the Portimao track. Each had their own programme of work to conclude before the team’s flight cases get loaded up in readiness for the long journey to Australia.
Rea was the second quickest rider of all at Portimao, even though he did not have a bike set-up to maximise his outright pace when he used the softer tyre options. He was a narrow 0.009 seconds from fastest rider Alvaro Bautista, with Rea setting a 1’39.044 personal best lap on the second day.
Lowes worked exclusively on race pace and preparations for the new season, after losing some available track time on the final morning at Portimao. Alex’s best lap of the tests was set on day one, with a 1.40.264, placing him 9th fastest overall on the aggregated times. He set 72 laps on day one and 56 on day two of the Portimao tests.
With the European element of the pre-season testing schedule complete, there will be two days of official testing at the legendary Phillip Island circuit, on 20-21 February, before the start of the 2023 season itself the following weekend.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “Our test was positive. Again, we were just step-by-step working with the new electronics guys, and the changes they made to my requests. So we have more of an understanding, a good understanding, already. Of course, it is still a work in progress. From the testing side today we had some development rear tyres from Pirelli to try. Last week in the Jerez test we had front tyres to test, this time it was two different options of SCX rears. The track was in strange shape because I was much better with harder compound tyres than softer tyres. Every time we put a softer tyre in, trying to make a time attack, the lap time wasn’t coming. From a chassis point of view we tried a couple of new items at this test that influenced the bike in a really positive direction, so I feel we have made a step. You never really know until the lights go out but I think that we have had a decent winter, albeit a short one. I am quite happy with our two days work at Portimao.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “I did all my work on the SC0 rear tyres today so until I look at the time sheets properly I won’t know what my final pace was like. I had a small crash at T5 today, on that bump on the way in, which was annoying. But, in general, I feel quite good on the bike. I tried to do a lot of work on used tyres, because in winter testing 1’39.0 laps times are sound, but they do not improve the bike set-up too much. We need to really work in race conditions so that we can fight in the races. I have been trying to do that here and hopefully the hard work will pay off in Australia and we can have good races there. We can improve the package a bit but I think there is a little bit more to go.”
Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Jonathan Rea, stated: “We are happy with the tests. We have some different items in some areas from last year to this year, and we tested them for the first time in Jerez. Here in Portimao what we did is confirm them and also try to build the starting point we will use in Australia. We reached all the expectations we had and honestly I am quite pleased with the job done by all the guys. The new electronics staff, Christophe and Sander, are working very well. We are understanding each other step-by-step. Johnny was very pleased and very happy, and at the same time he was going fast. At the end of the day, we are on the line that we expected to be on and we are ready to go to Australia.”
Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We did most of our laps over half race distance each time we made a pit exit today, so we have prepared ourselves mainly for race conditions. Last year at the final test of the year, and at the race in Phillip Island, we were very competitive. We improved our performance. Here, we only used the hardest option rear tyre and we are now ready for the Phillip Island official tests and the first round of the new season.”
Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was also out on track at Portimao, finishing up the tenth quickest rider over two days as he returns to WorldSBK from racing in the BSB championship in 2022.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Complete Positive Portimão Test
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli finished the final two days of winter testing in Europe at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK today, as the team nears the start of the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship.
Picture-perfect Portuguese weather allowed the #54 and #55 riders to complete nearly 300 combined laps and test a variety of new development parts in order to assist Yamaha’s engineers in finalising the 2023 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK race package.
Razgatlıoğlu posted an impressive lap time on Pirelli’s X tyre with a 1’39.441, faster than the WorldSBK lap record, but was unable to test the softer qualifying tyre due to cooler track conditions than the compound’s optimum range. The 26-year-old finished the test in fourth position for outright lap pace and completed a total of 121 laps across the two days.
Teammate Locatelli also impressed in his work ethic to complete a massive 173 laps as well as his ability to take a step in performance, confidence and outright pace.
The season-opener in Australia at Phillip Island kicks off with a WorldSBK Official Test on 20-21 February before the race weekend starts on 24-26 February. For the team, the “long haul” starts even sooner, with the preparation of just over five tonnes of race equipment including its 2023 R1 WorldSBK race machines to depart from Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK’s UK home at Crescent Yamaha in Dorset.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu – 1’39.441
“Today we had a really good start and I felt good – I used the X race tyre and see very good lap time, 39.4 – I think is very good lap time but here the track condition changed a lot during the day. And after we work with the new parts and new swing arm, and end of today I use again the old one because we check which one is better. Finally, my feeling on the bike is much better with the whole package and I am confident. I don’t have a time for the Q tyre today, because you know, end of the day very cold. So I say, I don’t need Q tyre and also I did the very good lap time with X tyre. Maybe next time I am trying 1.38! I am ready for the season and ready for the fighting.”
Andrea Locatelli – 1’39.705
“It was another great day of testing today – okay, the second day was a bit difficult in the beginning because yesterday I rode a lot, 85 laps! With the long run yesterday in the afternoon, I was a little bit tired but today we were riding a lot also and in the end we found a really good set-up and I have a really good confidence with the bike. This is important to arrive in Phillip Island in a good way. To be honest, I am really happy – because we did not have any mistakes and we understand some parts of the bike really well. And, the weather was good! We will see what happens in Phillip Island, but we close this test in a really good way. I think we can start immediately with a really good feeling and try to push – I can’t wait to start and to fight in the first race.”
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK:
“We were blessed with stable and relatively warm conditions for the time of year here in Portimao – which enabled the Pata Yamaha Prometeon squad to get through a serious amount of work! For Loka, these two days were simply his best test since joining the team at the end of 2020. He covered a massive 173 laps and displayed fantastic pace both in terms of consistency and ultimate outright lap time. A great job by Andrea and all of his crew to get through the amount that they did! We hoped Loka would take a step this season, and the approach that he has taken in this test and the confidence that he’s displayed on the bike would indicate that we’ve started to move forward. Toprak, having been quickest on both days in Jerez, faced a few more challenges here in terms of evaluating new parts and – as is often the case with winter testing – suffered a few backwards steps before regaining positive momentum. In the end his test result in terms of long runs completed and ultimate lap times was maybe not exactly what we hoped for, but most importantly whenever his R1 package was to his liking, Toprak as always was immediately blisteringly fast. Phillip Island next is going to be a challenge – our competitors have taken a step forward, but we can’t wait for the season to start.”
More, from another press release issued by Yamaha:
Gardner and Aegerter Continued their Adaptation in Portimao Test
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK duo concluded a two-days of test in Portimao on 31st January-1st February, finding good lap times despite being not able to put together their best splits in a single lap to maximise the effort.
Remy Gardner and Dominique Aegerter kept working on their Yamaha R1 machines, trying many things improve the feeling on the bikes. On Day 1, the Australian completed 86 laps to find himself 9th (1’40.667), while his Swiss teammate finished with 88 in 16th (1’41.432).
Twenty-four hours later, the GRT duo focused on their qualifying performance in the final minutes: Gardner went 7th fastest (1.40.202, 90 laps), while Aegerter concluded in 15th (1.40.844, 83 laps). Both struggled on finding a clean one-shot lap; indeed, the #87 and the #77 rider have a better ideal time on their hands, which leave them confident for the beginning of the season.
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team will now move on to Australia on 20th-21st February for the Official Test in Phillip Island ahead of the beginning of the season which will take place at the same venue on 24th-26th February.
Remy Gardner: P11 – 1’40.202, 176 laps
“Two more days of testing, that was good. We improved even though we just struggled a little bit to find the correct way on day 2, but at the end we managed to improve the time. We got more experience before Phillip Island, I’m looking forward to that test to be ready for the beginning of the season.”
Dominique Aegerter: P21 – 1’40.844, 171 laps
“Riding in Portimao is always amazing, but really demanding as well. I still need to get used to the big bike, it has a lot of power and strong brakes. We tried many stuffs and I think we could not really take the full potential, but we got some good data to work on, over a basic setup that we can have for the season.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
LAST STOP PORTIMAO; NOW LET’S FLY TO AUSTRALIA!
Intense last week for the WorldSBK circus; after the two days in Jerez, the protagonists moved to Portimao, the splendid ups and downs of the Algarve, for an important practice session before flying to Australia, where the real 2023 debut will take place!
In Jerez, Philipp struggled to find the right feeling with the new Ducati Panigale V4-R; the riding position was the main problem to solve, in order to then concentrate the work on the set-up. Between the two tests, thanks to the work of the technicians, with the creation of special appendices on the tank, and to a lowered seat, the German rider immediately found good confidence. During the first day, Oettl was able to make a comparison between some components from last season and the new ones, so as to better adapt to the differences in behaviour. In the afternoon, then, he was able to make good use of the 2022 tyres supplied (some factory teams tested a new development of the softer compound), riding in 1.40.846 with the qualifying tyre. On the second day he immediately found an excellent feeling with the SC0, the harder compound, right from the morning. First, he stopped within four tenths of his personal best from the previous day, then he even managed to improve the time set on the qualifying tyre by a tenth. In the afternoon, which was slightly colder than yesterday the team tried to put on a couple of soft tyres, but perhaps the conditions weren’t optimal to try the time attack, thus maintaining the reference set in the late morning with “race” configuration. During day 2, the technicians had the opportunity to work on the rear shock absorber and on the electronics, trying to understand the feeling from the new swingarm and the bike in the 2023 configuration. Excellent data collected, so as to be able to analyse it, evaluate what can be improved, both in technical terms and speaking about riding style. The Go Eleven rider’s ideal time is really strong, faster than the time set, as he was unable to put together a proper fast lap.
Philipp still has to find something, he lacks a few tenths and a little confidence before he can be satisfied with the pre-season work; for this, the two pre-Australia days will be fundamental, where the official tests of WorldSBK 2023 will take place. A clear step forward, however, compared to Jerez, as we have seen, which gives Philipp a big boost in view of the (real) seasonal debut, when it will be essential to be fast and constant!
COMBINED RESULTS:
P 1 A. Bautista 1.39.035
P 2 J. Rea + 0.009
P 3 M. Rinaldi + 0.109
P 4 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.406
P 5 A. Locatelli + 0.670
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.754
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Another two interesting days of testing, I think these were much more productive compared to Jerez, especially cause we could compare both bikes, and I could adapt better to the new seat position. This was a really big step, now I feel comfortable on the new bike. Then we started working on the electronics and suspensions. I think we collected a lot of informations, from these two days, I think now it’s really important to put everything together for the Australian Round. There we will have two days of tests more, that’s quite a good luck for us, cause I still miss something and I don’t feel completely ready to race. In Portimao we found the right way to follow, and I am really optimistic for the first race! ”
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“Two very positive days here in Portimao, where we found the right ergonomics for the 2023 Ducati. Philipp found the correct feeling and was able to push, starting to work on the set-up and electronics. The objective of the test was done, but obviously it is only the starting point, we still have to find the optimal feeling he had last year in Australia. Now we will have to make the flight cases, time is very little and we still have a lot of work to do, we leave for Australia, the first round of the 2023 season. We are excited because the level of the riders and teams on track is as high as ever, but we know we have the potential to do well and get some satisfaction!”
Patricia Fernandez-West (left) and Cory West (right) will be joined by Frankie Garcia and Jake Lewis on Saddlemen's four-rider MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers team in 2023. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.
Long Beach, CA (February 2023) – Saddlemen is excited to announce that it has joined forces with Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle and Mission Foods for MotoAmerica’s 2023 King Of The Baggers Class and Mission Foods Super Hooligans Series set for eight rounds this year in conjunction with MotoAmerica.
In 2023, veteran riders Cory West and Patricia Fernandez-West will continue to represent Team Saddlemen along with two newcomers, Frankie Garcia and Jake Lewis. We are excited to expand this year with Frankie and Jake joining the team to ride in the Mission King Of The Baggers class.
Cory West #13, Patricia Fernandez-West #87, Frankie Garcia #14, and Jake Lewis #85 will each ride a race-prepped 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide® Limited motorcycle wrapped in matching Saddlemen race carbon-fiber bodywork and powered by a Screamin’ Eagle Twin-Cooled™ 131ci Milwaukee-Eight powertrain in the Mission King of the Baggers class.
Cory and Patricia will also compete again this season in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan Series. New for 2023 each will be riding a stripped-down and highly modified Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 featuring Saddlemen’s latest carbon-fiber race bodywork.
Expanding our effort in 2023, Hoban Brothers Racing is joining Team Saddlemen and will facilitate the team’s racing effort on the track. All of our Road Glide® motorcycles will use the recently available factory-developed racing parts from Harley-Davidson and Screamin’ Eagle. We are confident it will be an exciting year with a larger team filled with extraordinarily talented and experienced riders, partners, and sponsors, including Harley-Davidson, Screamin’ Eagle, Mission Foods, Darkhorse Motor Company, Suicide Machine Company, Motul, NAMZ Custom Cycle Products, and 4SR.
Saddlemen is an American company based in Long Beach, California, specializing in motorcycle seats and luggage. Known as the “Gel Seat Experts” since 1987, our goal has been to improve comfort, control, and overall riding experience for millions of motorcyclists worldwide.
With over 200 employees, we are riders and builders who enjoy practically everything motorcycle. Over the last 35 years, the Saddlemen team has participated in everything from Flat Track to MotoGP. Now, we are excited to announce our participation in the 2023 season of MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers, and Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship by Roland Sands Design. As many people already know, racing is one of the best places to test new products, and at Saddlemen, every trip to the race track or smooth ride on the open road is an opportunity to refine the products we are proud to share with our customers.
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