MotoGP: Bradl Will Fill In For Marquez At Catalunya

David Swarts

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May 31, 2022

MotoGP: Bradl Will Fill In For Marquez At Catalunya

Espargaro focuses in on home challenge

As Marc Marquez heads for the US, the Repsol Honda Team prepare to forge ahead with Pol Espargaro and Stefan Bradl in Barcelona.

The MotoGP train doesn’t stop as it arrives in Barcelona for round nine of the 2022 season. In Mugello, it was announced that Marc Marquez would have a fourth surgery on his right humerus and will be absent from the Catalan GP. Stefan Bradl will once again take over the reigns of the RC213V in his place.

There are none that can challenge the Catalan Grand Prix as being Pol Espargaro’s home race, the #44 having been born and raised just a short distance from the track in Granollers. After several difficult rounds Espargaro is eager to steady himself and put on a show for the home fans and perform at the maximum possible level. His best premier class result at home is fifth place, achieved in 2016 and last year he suffered an unfortunate DNF aboard the RC213V. Despite not achieving the end results he has aimed for, the past races have shown signs of progress and flashes of what he and the bike are capable of.

Stefan Bradl will once again join Pol Espargaro inside the Repsol Honda Team garage, their fifth race as teammates. This is the third time that Bradl will race in 2022, having taken 19th in Argentina and suffering a DNF in Jerez while running as a wildcard. As with many circuits on the calendar, Bradl has a strong and consistent point-scoring history at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Missing points just once in his six premier class races there and with a best finish of fifth in 2013 and 2014.

Monday after the race also presents the second in-season MotoGP test of the year, both Espargaro and Bradl set to continue development work on the RC213V alongside the rest of the MotoGP grid.

Pol Espargaro

“I know that the home fans will give me an extra boost this weekend. After some hard races, this is just what I need to get our year back to where it should be. I arrive as motivated and as focused as ever and from Free Practice 1 we will be working to achieve our goals. There’s still a lot of races left to run and what we find in these races can help us a lot at the end of the year. Also with the test on Monday, we will have a lot of bike time to be able to understand everything.”

Stefan Bradl

“First I want to wish Marc all the best with his operation and his recovery. I am here for everything that HRC and the Repsol Honda Team need until Marc’s return. We have all seen the level in MotoGP, so we know the challenge that is ahead of us but I am confident that working with Honda and the team we can achieve something. Let’s see what the weekend brings, it will be important to get in a lot of laps and prepare well for Monday’s test.”

World Ducati Week: Race Of Champions Lineup Announced

David Swarts

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May 31, 2022

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World Ducati Week: Race Of Champions Lineup Announced

Race of Champions: an unprecedented starting grid for the exciting challenge between Ducati riders at WDW2022

A unique race starring the Ducati team riders in MotoGP, Superbike and Supersport that will ignite the passion of the Ducatisti on Saturday 23 July at World Ducati Week 2022

On Friday 22 July two great champions who have made Ducati history also take to the track for the lap of honour: Carl Fogarty and Troy Bayliss, together with Chaz Davies, Régis Laconi and Rubén Xaus

Tickets to live every moment of the WDW2022 are already available on the Ducati website

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 31 May 2022 – After the dream Sunday that saw Ducati triumph in the Italian Grand Prix at the Mugello International Circuit, the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer announces the details of one of the most highly-anticipated moments of World Ducati Week 2022: the Race of Champions.

The race that will ignite the passion of fans and enthusiasts of two wheels and unite the community in the name of “Let’s Ride as One” will see 21 Ducati riders from MotoGP, Superbike and Supersport competing on the track on Saturday 23 July. Many of them have won world titles in various classes and races in the European and Italian championships.

Pecco Bagnaia, Jack Miller, Michele Pirro, Johann Zarco, Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Luca Marini, Marco Bezzecchi, Alvaro Bautista, Michael Ruben Rinaldi and Danilo Petrucci are just some of the champions who will compete on the Misano track, together with other Ducati riders present in the Superbike and Supersport championships, including Oliver Bayliss, son of the legendary Troy.

The Ducati heroes will fight it out on Panigale V4 S and Panigale V2 bikes in racing configuration, each one customized by an exclusive livery inspired by the graphics of the bike used by the rider during the championships. All the bikes will be equipped with the best Ducati Performance accessories for the track, such as Akrapovič titanium exhausts, Pirelli slick tyres and Rizoma brake lever protector. While the engines will be equipped with the only oil certified by the Ducati Research and Development Department, Shell Advance Ducati 15W 50.

It will be a unique competition: a dual category race with two winners. The Panigale V4 will be lined up in front of the Panigale V2 and the riders will compete in 12 laps of the track with free practice, qualifying and warm-up, with times certified by Locman, Official Timing Partner of the race. An unforgettable spectacle that only Ducati can offer, and which represents one more reason to participate in WDW2022.

Another unmissable appointment of the World Ducati Week is the lap of honour with all the riders present at the event, including the historic ones who have taken the red bikes of Borgo Panigale to victory on circuits all over the world and who have maintained a strong bond with the Ducatisti, their great fans. On Friday 22 July Carl Fogarty, Troy Bayliss, Chaz Davies, Régis Laconi and Rubén Xaus will join the Race of Champions riders to lap around the track, celebrating the pride of being Ducatisti.

On Friday 22 July there will be the track moment par excellence, which sees all the Ducatisti and their Ducati bikes as protagonists: the parade! Starting from a lap of the circuit, the colourful snake of motorcycles will take thousands of fans to Riccione for the evening program of the World Ducati Week, which will shortly be announced.

Tickets to not miss a moment of the eleventh edition of the WDW tickets are already on sale. Different entry formulas are available for those who participate on a motorbike or as a passenger, for one day or all three days. To discover all the options, just visit the dedicated section on the Ducati website.

New events and international guests will be announced in the coming weeks, completing the three-day programme. All the news will be available on the dedicated website, on the brand’s social media channels and on the official Facebook page of the World Ducati Week.

AHRMA: Maddrill Extends Point Lead With Double Victory In Kansas

David Swarts

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May 31, 2022

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AHRMA: Maddrill Extends Point Lead With Double Victory In Kansas

Maddrill Increases Points Lead in AHRMA Vintage Cup Action at Heartland Motorsports Park

(May 31, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) Two victories at the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland helped Jeremy Maddrill extend his lead in the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) Vintage Cup. The event was rounds 11 and 12 of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series and was held at Heartland Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas May 28 and 29.

The 2022 Vintage Cup, sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com, highlights the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class and Maddrill, from Stiger, Illinois, won both rounds on his 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650.

“These 650cc-sized superbikes are the real deal and in the right hands, may earn a Vintage Cup championship,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.

On Saturday, Maddrill had a clean start, immediately took, and held the lead until the checkered flag. Kevin Rammer, from Newnan, Georgia, on a 1982 Honda CB650SC was unable to reel in Maddrill and placed second. Rounding out the podium in third was Matt Esterline from Portage, Michigan, on a 1977 Honda CB750F, with Andre Hauer of Houston, Texas finishing fourth on a 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550.

In a repeat performance of Saturday, Maddrill took the lead and the eventual win for Sunday. Rammer was in close pursuit until he experienced traction and chassis wobble issues which allowed Ben Sloter of Island Lake, Illinois to take second on his 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550. Rammer took third place points which elevated him to second overall in the Vintage Cup points chase.

The 2022 Vintage Cup Trophy will be awarded to the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class winner at select events including New Jersey Motorsports Park, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and Barber Motorsports Park.

The Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class is sponsored by International CBX Owners Association (ICOA).

Race dates and event registration links are available at: https://www.ahrma.org/schedules-results/

AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavy Weight – Vintage Cup Results – Saturday, May 28, 2022

Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA
Matt Esterline, 1977 Honda CB750F, Portage, MI
Andre Hauer, 1981 Kawasaki GPZ, Houston, TX

AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavy Weight – Vintage Cup Sunday, May 29, 2022

Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
Ben Sloter, 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550, Island Lake, IL
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With about 3300 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

ASRA: Mesa Is The Master At Summit Point

David Swarts

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May 31, 2022

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ASRA: Mesa Is The Master At Summit Point

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

May 30, 2022

Summit Point, West Virginia

Stefano Mesa doubled down on the main ASRA Sprint classes of Sportbike and SuperStock Presented by Pirelli Tire during the Annual ASRA/CCS Memorial Day Cyclefest at Summit Point Raceway.

053022 SPR ASRA Results

World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Spa Is This Coming Weekend

David Swarts

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May 31, 2022

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World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Spa Is This Coming Weekend

Event preview: EWC aces ready to ride the Spa rollercoaster

A big track and an even bigger challenge is in store for the FIM Endurance World Championship riders and their teams from 2-5 June when the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps hosts the second event of the 2022 season, the 24H SPA EWC Motos.

Recreating the spirit of the famous 24 Heures de Liège, which counted as a round of the EWC up until 2001, the 24H SPA EWC Motos is set to become a modern-day classic with a talent-packed, high-level entry list and a track upgraded specifically for the EWC as part of an investment programme of 25 million euros. A full schedule of support races and activities to provide even more entertainment for fans off-track will create an unforgettable atmosphere.

The second of three 24-hour races on the EWC calendar for 2022, the 24H SPA EWC Motos is notable for Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps’ 6.985-kilometre lap length, undulating nature and mixture of low-, medium- and high-speed corners, while its location in the Ardennes Forest can result in changeable and unpredictable weather conditions.

While the return of the EWC to the iconic Spa is just days away, its comeback has been more than five years in the making. The 24H SPA EWC Motos will take place on a significantly modified track, the result of changes mandated by both the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and Fédération Motocycliste de Belgique (FMB).

Central to the changes, which were ratified by the Fédération Internationale de l’Autombile (FIA) in line with car racing requirements, are expanded run-off areas at several corners, the repositioning of safety barriers in some sections, plus the realignment of the Speaker’s Corner left-hander, albeit for bike use only. Additional infrastructure work and the construction of a purpose-built grandstand at the top of Raidillon has also been undertaken.

The 24H SPA EWC Motos follows the spectacular season-opening 24 Heures Motos on the EWC calendar. Gregg Black, Sylvain Guintoli and Belgium’s Xavier Siméon teamed-up to give reigning FIM EWC champion team Yoshimura SERT Motul overall victory after a dramatic race at Le Mans. Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, meanwhile, top-scored in the FIM EWC World Cup and Dunlop Superstock Trophy.

Coinciding with a number of sustainability actions as part of the FIM’s Green Week, the 24H SPA EWC Motos will be broadcast on networks around the world with the entire race shown as it happens on the Discovery Sports platform.

ESSENTIALS

What? 24H SPA EWC Motos, FIM Endurance World Championship 2022, Round 2

When? 2-5 June 2022

Where? Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium

Track length: 6.985 kilometres

Race starts: 13h00 CET, Saturday 4 June

EWC Qualifying best lap: To be established*

EWC Race best lap: To be established*

*The fastest time during two days of testing from 17-18 May was 2m20.344s set by Markus Reiterberger for BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in 100 words: A track as legendary as it is demanding hosts international-level motorbike racing for the first time since 2001 when the 24H SPA EWC Motos revives the spirit of the 24 Heures de Liège, once an EWC calendar mainstay. The iconic circuit has undergone extensive safety upgrades mandated by FIM and FMB specifically for the EWC’s return. Central to the changes, which have been ratified by the FIA in line with car racing requirements, are expanded run-off areas at several corners, the repositioning of safety barriers in some sections, plus the minor realignment of Turn 9, albeit for bike use only.

24H SPA EWC MOTOS FAST FACTS

*The return of the EWC to Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps was first discussed in 2015, shortly after Discovery Sports Events (formerly Eurosport Events) became championship promoter as part of a long-term agreement with governing body, FIM.

*Although a 22h00hrs start on Friday was originally planned, the 24H SPA EWC Motos gets underway at 13h00hrs.

*At 6.985 kilometres, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is the longest circuit on the EWC calendar.

*In alignment with Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Discovery Sports Events appointed PHA Claude Michy, the organisation behind the French MotoGP round, to support the general coordination of 24H SPA EWC Motos.

*The return of EWC racing to Belgium coincides with Xavier Siméon chasing a hat-trick of championship titles following success in 2020 and 2021.

INTRODUCING THE DUNLOP SUPERSTOCK TROPHY

New for 2022, the Dunlop Superstock Trophy is a joint initiative from EWC promoter Discovery Sports Events, Dunlop and the promoters of the individual EWC races. It follows on from the appointment of Dunlop as the single tyre supplier to the Superstock (SST) category.

All teams are allocated the same number of tyres for each race and there are two choices of front compounds and two choices of rear compounds. A reward scheme exists with teams receiving free tyres based on their race result. For example, if a team is allocated 20 tyres and receives 15 tyres for winning the race, a bill for five tyres is issued.

Dunlop Superstock Trophy competitors are eligible for the FIM Endurance World Cup, which is contested at the 24 Heures Motos, 24H SPA EWC Motos and Bol d’Or. The Dunlop Independent Trophy, last awarded in 2021, is no more although teams competing without the support of a bike manufacturer in either Formula EWC or Superstock can still chase their own Independent Trophy.

Of the FIM Endurance World Cup (Superstock) teams contesting the 24H SPA EWC Motos, the following are eligible for the Dunlop Superstock Trophy from EWC promoter Discovery Sports Events: Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, Team 202, BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers, TRT27 Bazar 2 La Bécane, Team 33 Louit April Moto, JMA Racing – Action Bike, 3ART Best of Bike, RAC 41 ChromeBurner, No Limits Motor Team, National Motos Honda, Players, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Pitlane Endurance – JP3, Énergie Endurance 91, Team LH Racing, ADSS97, Aviobike, Falcon Racing, Wójcik Racing Team STK

The following teams are eligible for the Independent Trophy from EWC promoter Discovery Sports Events at the 24H SPA EWC Motos: Tati Team Beringer Racing, Team Bolliger Switzerland, Maco Racing, Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, Team 202, BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers, TRT27 Bazar 2 La Bécane, Team 33 Louit April Moto, JMA Racing – Action Bike, 3ART Best of Bike, RAC 41 ChromeBurner, No Limits Motor Team, National Motos Honda, Players, Motobox Kremer Racing, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Wójcik Racing Team EWC, Pitlane Endurance – JP3, Team LRP Poland, Énergie Endurance 91, Team LH Racing, Moto Ain, ADSS97, Aviobike, Falcon Racing, Viltaïs Racing Igol, Wójcik Racing Team STK

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2022?

A summary of some of the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship changes appears below:

*Addition of 24H SPA EWC Motos to the calendar means there will be three 24-hour races in the same FIM Endurance World Championship season

*Dunlop Superstock Trophy recognises and rewards Superstock category competitors as part of Dunlop’s single-supplier agreement

*Qualifying results are based on the average time of the fastest two riders (the results of the fourth rider are not taken into account)

*All riders per team must qualify within 108 per cent of the fastest team in each category

*Stäubli is the single supplier of the FIM homologated fuel quick-fill system for the FIM Endurance World Championship and World Cup from 2022 (transition year) to 2031. Although its use is not mandatory in 2022, the system is available for sale or rent to all the teams wishing to equip themselves and prepare for the mandatory use of the FIM homologated fuel quick-fill system from 2023

THE BIG NUMBER: 1921

The first race to take place at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps back in 1921 was for motorbikes, while the first 24 Heures de Liège was held in 1973.

RIDERS SAID WHAT?

Mike di Meglio, France (F.C.C. TSR Honda France, Honda CB R1000 RR-R)

“It’s a special track but the conditions will be quite tough because it can rain in some parts of the track and in one part it can be dry. It will be a long race and you need to respect this track. I made some tests last year to learn the track because everybody said you need to go there before to understand well because there are many fast corners. It was very interesting to have some days of testing and I hope it will help us for the race.”

Randy de Puniet, France (Webike SRC Kawasaki France, Kawasaki ZX 10R)

“If I never ride at Spa before I stop my career it would be a big shame so I’m here and the track is quite incredible, honestly it’s the best circuit in the world. It’s the perfect track for the EWC and we hope we can have a good race. I enjoy every part of this circuit, even the chicane and the hairpin. We didn’t test during the winter so the first race was like a practice. For this race the preparation is better, we are closer to the top guys so the target will be to fight for the podium.”

Xavi Fores, Spain (ERC Endurance-Ducati, Ducati Panigale)

“I was really looking forward to ride here for the first time because everyone who talked to me told me it’s a nice layout and I realised that on the first laps during the test. It’s a kind of track I like, really flowing all the time with not so many hairpins and hard braking points, which is good for us, for me and also our bike, which suits perfectly this track. Eau Rouge is not an easy corner because it’s blind and you cannot see the outside where you have to change the bike direction. It’s going to be less physical than Le Mans because you have more time to rest with the long straight, more flowing corners and not so many hard braking points so you can save your energy more. But with a long circuit it will be a tough race and with the weather changing also.”

Marvin Fritz, Germany (YART – Yamaha Official Team EWC, Yamaha YZF-R1)

“I’ve been to Spa three or four times with the 6 Hour Race so I know the track pretty well. It’s one of the most beautiful tracks in this world but it’s difficult because you have many fast parts and you have to be so precise to get the apex every time right to get all of the speed out onto the straights and out of the corners. Of course, we always come to win but for us the most important is to finish the race like in Le Mans to get the many points as possible because our goal is to win the championship and with a 24-hour race you can make always big steps to be in the fight. The hard work the team did with the engine and the electrics during the winter has paid off, now we are working hard with the starter motor and now it’s better. We lost the start [at Le Mans] and every pit stop we lost five seconds. With 27 pit stops this is two and a half minutes and we lost [the race] by less than a lap but to finish this race was like a victory.”

Markus Reiterberger, Germany (BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, BMW M1000RR)

“Coming to Spa is always special, especially with the changes on the track because the Tarmac is so nice and I am really loving it. It’s just amazing with so much grip, it’s stable with no more bumps, they did a really good job [with the changes]. My team manager Werner [Daemen, from Belgium] always told me you have to go to Spa and finally two years ago it happened. He showed us the track but after two laps he was destroyed so we had to adapt on our own! He was the former record holder before Xavier [Siméon] so Spa is a good place for us. Le mans was a race to forget after the engine failure and we can only do better at Spa. When I jumped on the bike [in testing] directly I was fast [so] it seems we’ve started in the right way.”

Xavier Siméon, Belgium (Yoshimura SERT Motul, Suzuki GSX-R1000R)

“This track is amazing, it’s very, very fast, you have to respect it a lot because you need a level of concentration and confidence that is very high. It will be a very tough race, especially during the night. It’s a track where you can make a big difference in terms of lap times, so you have to respect this track clearly, but that’s why everybody says it’s the most beautiful track in the world because it’s in the woods with long corners, seven kilometres, the track really is amazing. I raced at Spa in 2005 and 2006 and the weather can change at any moment. Sometimes it’s raining in the back of the track and not in the first part so it can be a surprise at every moment and that’s why I said you really have to respect this track.”

Dunlop Superstock Trophy riders:

Kevin Manfredi, Italy (Wójcik Racing Team STK 777, Yamaha YZF-R1)

“It’s incredible, it’s another track, it’s not similar to the others. It’s similar to the rollercoaster and it’s very fast. I crash with MotoE [in testing before the season started]. I have a little pain in my body but it’s okay. In Le Mans it was okay until I crashed on the first day and I touched another time the broken ribs. In the race it was not good because we finished after five hours but in the first hour I start good and go fast for the Superstock category.”

Philipp Steinmayr, Austria (Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, Yamaha YZF-R1)

“The track is pretty awesome and I simply love it. There are so many special corners here and when I ride Eau Rouge for the first time it was amazing, a really special corner. It’s going to be a hard race and we’re missing a little bit of horsepower compared to the Honda so we don’t know what will happen. Because the corners are so fast, when you try to be more aggressive it doesn’t help and this is a key point.”

PROVISIONAL TIMETABLE

Key FIM EWC timings are as follows:

Wednesday 1 June:

16h00-17h00: Parade from Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps to Malmedy

17h00-19h00: Autograph session

20h00: Parade from Malmedy to Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

Thursday 2 June:

10h00-12h00: Free Practice

15h40-16h00: First Qualifying (Blue Rider)

16h10-16h30: First Qualifying (Yellow Rider)

16h40-17h00: First Qualifying (Red Rider)

17h10-17h30: First Qualifying (Green Rider)

21h40-00h00: Night Practice

Friday 3 June:

11h25-11h45: Second Qualifying (Blue Rider)

11h55-12h15: Second Qualifying (Yellow Rider)

12h25-12h45: Second Qualifying (Red Rider)

12h55-13h15: Second Qualifying (Green Rider)

13h30: Post-Qualifying press conference

17h00-19h00: Pitlane walk

Saturday 4 June:

09h00-09h45: Warm-up

13h00: Start of 24H SPA EWC Motos

Sunday 5 June:

13h00: Finish of 24H SPA EWC Motos

13h05: Podium

13h30: Post-race press conference

AHRMA: VIP Packages Available For AHRMA Classic Motofest Of Monterey

David Swarts

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May 30, 2022

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AHRMA: VIP Packages Available For AHRMA Classic Motofest Of Monterey

AHRMA Offers Exclusive Access to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Turn 3 Hospitality Pavilion

(May 30, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – Enjoy non-stop vintage and modern road racing action with the best seat in the house.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is taking the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey experience to the next level by offering access to the exclusive WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Turn 3 Hospitality Pavilion.

The Pavilion offers unobstructed views of racers navigating the surprisingly tricky Turn 3 while enjoying refreshments of your choice, in comfort. Its convenient location in the heart of the paddock immerses race fans in all the action on and off the track.

A two-day VIP Package includes:

2-Day Admission & Paddock Ticket for Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17

Buffet breakfast and lunch

Light snacks

Beer, wine, sodas and water

Preferred parking pass

Indoor and outdoor seating and viewing deck

Unlimited fun

“This year we want fans who are really into the AHRMA show to have a very special experience,” said Brain Larrabure, chair of the AHRMA Board of Directors. “Anyone who does the VIP package is going to be up-close to the finest vintage road race bikes in the country along with some real cutting-edge modern bikes going flying by turn 3 at Laguna. There will also be a trials section right there to view between rounds, along with being close to the flat track action right there in the lake bed.“

VIP Package tickets for adults are $350 and $90 for children between the ages of 5 and 15 years old.

AHRMA is returning to the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for its second AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey. With the mission of restoring and racing on and off-road vintage motorcycles while appealing to a wide array of different audiences, it’s an event that fits in with the historic aura of the original Laguna Seca.

The MotoFest weekend will attract anyone who is a fan of classic and modern motorcycles. The event features classes for motorcycles spanning pre-World War II up to modern single, twin and triple-cylinder and electric-powered racers as well as sidecars. It is more common to see some of these bikes in museums, but AHRMA events are a unique opportunity for moto lovers of all ages to watch and enjoy heritage motorcycles in a very interactive experience for guests to enjoy.

Visit WeatherTech.com to purchase your VIP Package.

About AHRMA

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,300 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

Isle Of Man TT: Hickman Does 130 mph Lap On Day Two Of Qualifying

David Swarts

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May 30, 2022

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Isle Of Man TT: Hickman Does 130 mph Lap On Day Two Of Qualifying

HICKMAN HITS 130MPH ON DAY 2 OF THE ISLE OF MAN TT RACES

Peter Hickman set the 2022 Isle of Man TT Races fuelled by Monster Energy alight on Monday evening with the first 130mph lap of the event, with a speed of 130.72mph putting him seven seconds clear of second quickest Dean Harrison (129.84mph) with Davey Todd (128.024mph) third.

Todd’s strong start to this year’s event continued as he set the fastest lap in the Superstock class, the Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles rider lapping at 129.58mph which put him clear of teammate Conor Cummins (127.91mph) and Manxman Nathan Harrison (125.67mph), the latter having a great start to his maiden TT.

Meanwhile, the newcomers continued to get to grips with the Mountain Course with Glenn Irwin again leading the way at 122.92mph although both Milo Ward (118.24mph) and Joe Loughlin (117.97mph) impressed.

Newcomer Glenn Irwin (22). Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.

Overnight rain and a damp start to the day thankfully cleared and conditions were dry all around the course, although delays meant it wasn’t until 18.51 that the session got underway. Dean Harrison (DAO Racing Kawasaki) was first off quickly followed by Michael Rutter (Bathams Ales), Shaun Anderson (Crendon Suzuki by Hawk Racing), Brian McCormack (FHO Racing BMW/ The Roadhouse Macau) and Ian Hutchinson (Milwaukee BMW Motorrad).

All were Superbike mounted other than Anderson who’d opted for his Superstock mount, as had Davey Todd and James Hillier (RICH Energy OMG Racing) whilst Gary Johnson was out on his Supersport machine. Peter Hickman (Gas Monkey Garage by FHO Racing) stalled off the line but quickly got going with John McGuinness MBE (Honda Racing UK) one of the last seeds to go.

First back to the Grandstand was Harrison at 128.18mph followed by Anderson (124.65mph) and Rutter (124.14mph), but Hickman was the quickest through all the sectors and he flashed across the line almost ten seconds quicker than Harrison at 129.37mph.

Todd slotted into third at 127.77mph, which put him quickest in the Superstock class whilst other riders to reach over 125mph were Michael Dunlop (127.29mph), Conor Cummins (126.97mph), Hutchinson and McGuinness (both 125.71mph), Sam West (125.49mph), Jamie Coward (125.17mph), Lee Johnston (125.15mph) and Hillier (125.06mph).

Local rider Nathan Harrison was going superbly and a lap of 125.43mph put him ninth quickest overall on the lap and third overall in the Superstock class. Meanwhile, Glenn Irwin’s opening lap, on the Superstock Honda, was 120.16mph, the Ulsterman struggling slightly with tendonitis.

Second time around and just under three seconds covered Hickman, Harrison and Todd up to Ballaugh but as the lap progressed Hickman edged away and his second lap of 130.72mph put him seven seconds clear of Harrison (129.84mph). McGuinness (127.77mph) was third quickest in the Superbike class ahead of West (126.90mph), Hutchinson (126.39mph) and Johnston (126.25mph).

Todd, meanwhile, was only two seconds slower than Harrison and his lap of 129.58mph put him comfortably quickest in the Superstock category. Cummins (127.91) was 13s back in second and Nathan Harrison third, his second lap slightly quicker than his first at 125.67mph.

Irwin’s second lap of 122.92mph put him fifth quickest on the Superstock leaderboard and 18th overall with fellow newcomer Milo Ward (TC Racing/DP Coldplaning Honda) also going well at 118.24mph. Equally impressive was Joe Loughlin’s lap of 117.97mph in the Supersport division on the Team ILR/Mark Coverdale Yamaha.

Hickman, Johnston and Dominic Herbertson were three of the leading contenders to switch to their Supersport mounts for their third lap but, unfortunately, an incident for Sam West at Laurel Bank brought out a red flag and the session to an end just before 8pm – the rider reported conscious with hand and leg injuries.

As solo riders were required to return to the Grandstand, the sidecar session was cancelled for today.

Rider condition updates:

Ilja Cajouw, off at the 27th Milestone, reported conscious, airlifted to Noble’s Hospital and has since been discharged.

James Chawke, off at the Railway Pub, Union Mills, rider OK.

Jonathan Perry, off at Cruickshanks, rider OK.

Sam West, off at Pump House, Laurel Bank, reported conscious with hand and leg injuries, airlifted to Noble’s Hospital.

Michael Sweeney, off at the 11th Milestone, reported conscious with possible arm and leg injuries, airlifted to Noble’s Hospital.

Dumas Wins Pro 6 GP Regional Race At Calabogie

David Swarts

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May 30, 2022

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Dumas Wins Pro 6 GP Regional Race At Calabogie

Dumas begins Pro 6 GP season with victory at Calabogie

Calabogie, ON – Reigning Canadian national Superbike champion Alex Dumas of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, QC, began 2022 just as he completed 2021, winning the opening Pro 6 GP Regional opener [May 29] at Calabogie Motorsports Park. In the Pro Superbike powered by BMW Motorrad race, Dumas jumped out to an early lead and then held a solid margin throughout. The 19-year-old number-one plate holder won by over 12 seconds after six laps around the 5.05km, 18-turn venue southwest of Canada’s capital in Ottawa, ON.

In September of 2021, Dumas won both of the feature Pro Superbike races in the final national of the season at the same venue, clinching the crown in his first year on the tour. Calabogie is certainly a happy hunting ground for Dumas, who has never been defeated in a Pro Superbike race at the popular circuit.

Dumas had two Liqui Moly/FAST Riding School Suzuki GSX-R1000s at his disposal, including the machine he used for his title run last year and a brand-new model. The Patrice Goyette led team opted to focus on the latest “Gixxer,” making the most of near-ideal track conditions.

“I was only on the new bike, it’s not a lot different but its better,” confirmed Dumas. “It is built a little different, it has a better engine, and just a few new things with the chassis. So, it’s similar to last year, just a little better.”

“In the race, I remembered that the track can get a little greasy when the sun is out, and I was focused on getting the most out of our rear (spec Dunlop) tire,” he continued. “Traction can be a little hard to find, so it was good to get some real racing on the new bike in preparation for the opening national in two weeks at Grand Bend.”

Second-place went to Samuel Guerin of Quebec City, QC, a neighbour of Dumas who had two new EMC Group BMW M1000RRs to sort. Guerin was the breakout star of 2021 as a rookie Pro, though last season was mostly disappointing for the 2020 runner-up.

Guerin put in a solid effort on the race, moving to second and turning the second-best laps of the race.

“For a start, it was very good – I really felt at one with the bike in our first race, it is a great start for sure. I really have to thank my tuner, Jerome Denis, we’ve been so busy with the two new bikes,” he said.

Dumas was solidly fastest in qualifying, turning a best lap at 2:02.257 as Sebastian Tremblay of Oka, QC, worked up to second best with a time of 2:04.6. Tremblay – the long-time Pro Sport Bike middleweight frontrunner and reigning champion – was breaking in his brand-new Turcotte Performance Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R in preparation for his full-time return to the top tier national division.

Completing the front row of the grid was reigning Pro 6 GP Regional SBK champ Michael Leon of Beaconsfield, QC, on the Royal Distributing BMW, with a best lap at 2:04.7.

The second row of the grid included fourth-quickest Guerin, and Ivan Babic of Maple, ON, also on the just-homologated latest version of BMW’s frequently dominant S1000RR.

In the race, Dumas and Leon were inches apart from the activation of the IBEW Start lights, but Dumas was quickly on his way, leaving Leon to fight with Tremblay, Guerin, and Babic. Further back, Yamaha YZF-R1 mounted Ernest Bernhard of Ste-Brigide-d-Iberville, QC, held off a busy pack including the ambitious Jake LeClair, from Blackstock, ON aboard his middleweight Yamaha YZF-R6.

As Dumas pulled away, Guerin worked up to second, while Tremblay and Leon, frequent sparring partners over the years, fought for the final podium spot. At the line, Tremblay was just .19 seconds clear for third overall.

Leon netted fourth, clear of a lonely Babic. Meanwhile Bernhard held off LeClair for sixth, and rookie Anthony Bergeron of Racine, QC, worked up to eighth on his BMW.

Earlier in the program, the Kawasaki Pro Sport Bike final featured a good battle for first, with Philippe Masse of Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, making several well-judged moves to take the win by just over a second on his Ninja ZX-6R. Just behind, LeClair had a great dice with Speed Factory Kawasaki’s Vincent Levillain of Montreal, QC, with the Ontario rising star edging the Quebec speedster by a half-second.

Motul Amateur Superbike featured a good fight at the front between pole-sitter Julien Lafortune of Nicolet, QC, and Mark Labossiere of Longueil, QC., both BMW mounted. Lafortune eventually edged Labossiere for the win by roughly one second, with Yamaha YZF-R1 equipped Kevin Bartlett of Kemptville, ON, netting a solid third.

The DP Brakes Amateur Sport Bike race featured a strong, 21 rider field, with Alexandre Michel of Montreal earning pole on his Kawasaki only to run off track during the race. This set up a fight between Yannick Rouleau, from Sherbrooke, QC, and Guillaume Lavallee of Saint-Anne-de-Sorel, QC, both Kawasaki Ninja mounted.

Lavallee pulled clear to edge Rouleau by over six seconds for the victory, as Yamaha YZF-R6 pilot Martin Richard of Victoriaville, QC, netted third, right with runner-up Rouleau. Also in the mix was the Triumph Daytona triple of fourth finisher Matthieu Petit from Mont-Saint-Hilaire, QC.

The ST Motorsports Heavyweight/Speed Factory Middleweight Challenge backed by Yamaha belonged to Marc Labossiere of Longueil, QC., aboard a BMW, three seconds clear of runner-up and recent racing school graduate Yan Julien from Calixa-Lavallee, QC, piloting a GSX-R1000 Suzuki. Third went to the Honda CBR1000RR of Blaine Williamson from Milton, ON.

In the Liqui Moly PRO/AM Lightweight division, immaculate Yamaha YZF-R3 mounted Istvan Hidvegi from Mississauga, ON, set the pace throughout, quickest in practice and qualifying, then leading the race from start to finish. Hidvegi’s margin of victory was 15 seconds from Alan Burns of South Mountain, ON, the veteran Yamaha rider competing with injured ribs. Etobicoke, ON. Kawasaki racer Jacob Black completed the podium in third.

World Endurance: Kawasaki Entering Haslam, Lowes & Rea In Suzuka 8-Hours

David Swarts

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May 30, 2022

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World Endurance: Kawasaki Entering Haslam, Lowes & Rea In Suzuka 8-Hours

Kawasaki Announces Official Suzuka 8 Hours Entry

Kawasaki has confirmed that it will officially participate in the 2022 Suzuka 8 Hours event. As reigning champions a full factory program is being put into place after two years without the event being held at all, due to the worldwide Covid pandemic.

The official KRT entry this year will feature the riding talents of three proven Suzuka 8 Hours race winners, in the shape of Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes from the WorldSBK KRT squad, and Leon Haslam from the BSB championship.

KRT engineers and mechanics will support Japanese Kawasaki engineers and technicians to be ready to fight for success once again in the world’s most challenging motorcycle endurance race.

As well as being an important stand-alone event the Suzuka 8 Hours is a full round of the FIM Endurance World Championship – EWC.

The official Kawasaki 2022 riding line up features two riders that shared the spoils of victory in the most recent Suzuka 8 Hours in 2019 – Rea and Haslam. In total, Rea has two previous Suzuka 8 Hours wins, while Lowes and Haslam have three apiece.

Kawasaki has won two previous editions of the 8 Hours, the first back in 1993 and most recently in the 2019 race.

The 43rd edition of the Suzuka 8-Hour arguably the most important single race event on the Japanese motorcycle sport calendar, will take place between 5-7 August 2022.

Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am so excited to go back to Japan. Understandably Kawasaki has always had such a great support out there. We won the race 3 years ago. Kawasaki was understandably keen to defend the title and especially to continue the positive exposure WorldSBK is delivering to Kawasaki currently while extending that positivity to the 8h and Japan. Due to Covid we weren’t able to return until now. I always feel really appreciated by the Japanese fans. The atmosphere is incredible and I am really looking forward to going back. I think the target heading back to Suzuka is to win. We won there before and this season I feel, with Alex and Leon inside the team, we have a lot of experience together with the Ninja ZX-10RR. I am really excited to go back and see what we can do. We are going with a huge effort, lots of testing, taking the event seriously with a strong rider line up and a team with a lot more experience. I feel the minimum we can do is compete for the podium, but of course in Endurance racing everything can go right, everything can go wrong. We have to be very calm, mature, and do our best, lap-by-lap.”

Alex Lowes, stated: “It is a race that I have had some success with in the past. I am really happy to be going back there with Kawasaki for the first time. To be paired with Jonathan, who won last time he was there, is fantastic. Obviously I am a good friend of Leon’s away from the track so it will be nice to be in the same team as him too. I share the garage with Johnny every weekend and he obviously is a reigning champion at Suzuka because we have missed a couple of years. I have won the event three times so I think we have a pretty good team, a strong team, and I am looking forward to seeing how we get on all together. With the test schedule Kawasaki has created we know how focused they are on this race. As the race comes back on the calendar in 2022 they want to win and we are going there to do our best to achieve another victory. Let’s see if we can hit our target.

Leon Haslam, stated: “For me, to go back to the Suzuka 8 Hours is fantastic. I have had a lot of success there and managed to win it three times. Johnny and I won it back 2019, the last time it was run, so to go back in 2022 I have really high expectations. To be teamed back up with Johnny and also Alex, who was our main rival in 2019 – I think we have the dream team. I am super-excited and can’t wait to get going. The goal for 2022 at Suzuka obviously is to win, and to get back-to-back wins for Kawasaki.”

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “We are so proud to assist in this race and Kawasaki asked us to fully support this Suzuka 8 Hours activity, similar as we did in 2019 when was supporting Team Green and KHI Engineers. We are going to make one step more and bring the team’s Superbikes there at 100% to try to take the victory again. We will see how we work in the next test and make our best steps. It will be a combination of the KRT WorldSBK staff and the Japanese engineers.

They have good experience in the 8 Hours and will be supporting us in many areas. It is a very important race for Japan as a country, and the market in Japan, and we are very proud to be there to support this race. But we feel for the fans all over the world, 8h race, is a very iconic one too. For KRT and Kawasaki it is a very important event because it represents the spirit of the sport in Japan. I know Kawasaki is willing to make a good job there, try to battle against other manufacturers and give a good show. In the end it is like a big show, a big party of motorcycling in Japan. Kawasaki is so committed to this activity. We are going to try to make all our best there and bring the trophy back to Kawasaki again.”

Moto2: American Racing Team Celebrates Successes At Mugello

David Swarts

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May 30, 2022

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Moto2: American Racing Team Celebrates Successes At Mugello

Magical Mugello provides smiles all round at the American Racing Team with Cam Beaubier finishing 7th just off the back of the podium battle, and Sean Dylan Kelly having his closest ever finish time to the winner in his rookie season.

After a stunning ride from well outside the top 25 to 8th in last year’s Italian Grand Prix, Cam was cautiously excited coming into the weekend, though despite a direct seeding through to Q2, he was unable to capitalise on that second qualifying session and ended up starting from 18th on the grid. An outstanding opening lap in the race left him hot on the tails of the top 10 riders, charging through like the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion does best but ultimately falling short of a top four finish by half a second.

Sean’s weekend got off to a less than ideal start, with a crash in FP1 leaving him on the back foot. But taking the lessons from previous races in work method & ethic throughout the practice sessions, he picked up the pace substantially in FP3 and carried it through to the race on Sunday, where he finished with his closest time gap to the winner yet, and running pace matching those of the points finishers in the second half of the Grand Prix.

Experience from private and official testing leaves Sean excited for next weekend’s race in Barcelona, where he hopes to close the gap even further and take a big leap towards his next set of World Championship points in Moto2!

Cameron Beaubier #6 – 7th

“I’m honestly pretty happy with the way the race went after qualifying. No BS, I was struggling super bad to go fast here alone. I needed a reference to put in a good lap time – when I get in with a group, not even someone faster than me but just a reference up the road, it helped me so much here – so the way that qualifying went and knowing how much I struggled last year here, it felt good to put in a good showing in the race.

The first two laps I was able to make some good passes and safely too, not going crazy at all! I was able to make some good clean passes and not screw myself up by running too wide. Coming into the race I wanted to be methodical with my passes, make them clean and not screw myself up by running too wide, as especially on this track, you run wide and riders pass you, with one corner leading to another here… that’s not ideal!

I tried to chase Vietti and bridge the gap to the front group but I was riding out my skin to catch up, so I thought I’d better reel it back in. I’m happy with the tyre choice we made though, we went with the harder rear option so I felt pretty good and consistent the whole race, which I’m not sure how it would have been on the soft.

Even right there at the end, I saw fourth all the way to the chequered flag. I didn’t have anything to fight anyone at the end but I’m super stoked with a seventh. Mugello and Barcelona, going off last year, these are the two toughest tracks for me with the long flow corners and corners that turn around on themselves, that’s where I struggle with this bike. So I’m happy with that and onto the next one!”

Sean Dylan Kelly (4). Photo courtesy American Racing Team.

Sean Dylan Kelly #4 – 23rd

“Overall it was another interesting but I think a positive weekend for me. We started off on the wrong foot on Friday with a crash in FP1, which took us a step back. But we learned a lot doing a full session non-stop in FP2, allowing me to make a step up in FP3 where I was able to find a feeling on the bike I had been missing. Qualifying was difficult due to the conditions really, being so mixed. We were able to carry what we found in FP3 into Sunday though, making the most of warm up in even more difficult conditions and finishing in the top 10 just before race time – which always helps the confidence!

We managed to finish with our smallest gap to the front & P1, which is a big step. There’s of course more to work on in that area but my pace in the last ten laps of the race was pretty strong, it was the same as fighting for points so if I can make a step up in the first ten laps of the race, in that phase, I’ll be able to fight further forward. So I’m happy we were also able to turn it around from Friday and the tough weekends we’ve been having! See you guys in Barcelona!”

John Hopkins, Racing Director –

“I think Cam rode perfectly all weekend, though qualifying didn’t go to plan and that’s the only thing that hindered him from being on the podium this weekend. But as far as the race goes, he rode perfectly.

A perfect start straight from the beginning after we made a plan at the start to execute as I have a lot of experience of coming through the pack here at Mugello specifically. Outside to inside to outside in the first few corners and he made up some awesome positions, which was amazing to see. He had the pace to run with the leaders but got mixed up with Navarro mid-race which separated him from Vietti, allowing the gap to open and losing the draft from the podium contenders. When you lose the draft in Mugello, it’s game over. But he kept his head down and had a great race, exactly what he needed to do…

With Sean, we have some really good positives this weekend. He closed the gap significantly with his best ever result in respect to his time to the leaders, closed by well over 10 seconds compared to previous races at one of the most difficult tracks on the calendar. He’s improved his riding, performance and overall preparation; he’s made that next step and I think Barcelona will be a race where he’s able to show it!”

MotoGP: Bradl Will Fill In For Marquez At Catalunya

May 31, 2022

Stefan Bradl (6) at speed in Argentina. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.

Espargaro focuses in on home challenge

As Marc Marquez heads for the US, the Repsol Honda Team prepare to forge ahead with Pol Espargaro and Stefan Bradl in Barcelona.

The MotoGP train doesn’t stop as it arrives in Barcelona for round nine of the 2022 season. In Mugello, it was announced that Marc Marquez would have a fourth surgery on his right humerus and will be absent from the Catalan GP. Stefan Bradl will once again take over the reigns of the RC213V in his place.

There are none that can challenge the Catalan Grand Prix as being Pol Espargaro’s home race, the #44 having been born and raised just a short distance from the track in Granollers. After several difficult rounds Espargaro is eager to steady himself and put on a show for the home fans and perform at the maximum possible level. His best premier class result at home is fifth place, achieved in 2016 and last year he suffered an unfortunate DNF aboard the RC213V. Despite not achieving the end results he has aimed for, the past races have shown signs of progress and flashes of what he and the bike are capable of.

Stefan Bradl will once again join Pol Espargaro inside the Repsol Honda Team garage, their fifth race as teammates. This is the third time that Bradl will race in 2022, having taken 19th in Argentina and suffering a DNF in Jerez while running as a wildcard. As with many circuits on the calendar, Bradl has a strong and consistent point-scoring history at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Missing points just once in his six premier class races there and with a best finish of fifth in 2013 and 2014.

Monday after the race also presents the second in-season MotoGP test of the year, both Espargaro and Bradl set to continue development work on the RC213V alongside the rest of the MotoGP grid.

Pol Espargaro

“I know that the home fans will give me an extra boost this weekend. After some hard races, this is just what I need to get our year back to where it should be. I arrive as motivated and as focused as ever and from Free Practice 1 we will be working to achieve our goals. There’s still a lot of races left to run and what we find in these races can help us a lot at the end of the year. Also with the test on Monday, we will have a lot of bike time to be able to understand everything.”

Stefan Bradl

“First I want to wish Marc all the best with his operation and his recovery. I am here for everything that HRC and the Repsol Honda Team need until Marc’s return. We have all seen the level in MotoGP, so we know the challenge that is ahead of us but I am confident that working with Honda and the team we can achieve something. Let’s see what the weekend brings, it will be important to get in a lot of laps and prepare well for Monday’s test.”

World Ducati Week: Race Of Champions Lineup Announced

May 31, 2022

Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia is one of the riders scheduled to take part in the Race of Champions at World Ducati Week 2022. Photo courtesy Ducati.