GASGAS Bicycles Bringing E-Mountain Bikes To North America

David Swarts

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January 11, 2023

GASGAS Bicycles Bringing E-Mountain Bikes To North America

SAY HELLO TO GASGAS BICYCLES’ E-MTB LINEUP IN NORTH AMERICA!

EXCITING 11-BIKE PEDAL-ASSIST MOUNTAIN BIKE RANGE EXPANDS THE GASGAS FAMILY

We’re super excited to announce the arrival of GASGAS Bicycles with a robust lineup of 2023 eMTB bicycles. Introducing 11 pedal-assist mountain bikes, we’ve used our technical know-how, experience, and passion to create a range of bikes to suit everyone, enabling riders to hit the trails and seek out fun and adventure.

GASGAS Bicycles hit the North American trails!

11-bike Enduro, Trail, Light Trail and Cross Country lineup

As the third bicycle brand to launch under the PIERER New Mobility North America, Inc. umbrella, GASGAS Bicycles is on a mission to introduce a new dimension of offroad fun to all through our energetic and vibrant, daring – yet welcoming – brand approach. Riding on the action-led success and philosophy of GASGAS in the off-road motorcycle racing and trial competition segments, GASGAS Bicycles challenges riders and enthusiasts to experience off-road trails like they have never done before – via powerful E-Bicycles inspired and engineered to thrill and excite.

A GASGAS Light Trail 3.0 electric mountain bike in action. Photo courtesy GASGAS. — A GASGAS Light Trail 3.0 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy GASGAS.

At the pinnacle of our model lineup is the all-new G Light Trail category with two lightweight trail models featuring an ultra-light carbon frame. If you want the light, playful, super-agile feeling that traditional mountain bikes offer, but still want helpful pedal-assist support to kick in when you need it most, that’s what the G Light Trail does best! Specified with a slightly smaller motor and battery that are tucked into a super-lightweight carbon frame, every crucial ounce is saved to keep this ride feeling as close to an analog MTB as possible. All this design and engineering work is done to bridge the gap and strike the balance between pedal-assisted and human-powered fun. Both the 2.0 and 3.0 feature a 29” wheel paring and 150mm of travel that smooth out the roughest terrain and enough power when you need – without carry too much weight – to remain playful and flickable. Just a good time.

For hardcore eMTB riders, the Enduro and Trail models will definitely get the blood pumping! Put simply, the Enduro is a must have for those serious about downhill fun. With state-of-the-art mounted motors and internal batteries helping to flatten out the steepest of climbs, its long-travel suspension, slack geometry and mixed wheel sizes ensure the rowdiest of trails can be confidently tamed. The G Enduro lineup includes three aluminum-framed weapons built for long days rocking rough trails and terrain. Depending on your style, there’s a ride for you in the G Enduro range. The 1.0 comes in what is affectionately called a mullet-build, 29” in the front and 27.5” in the back. This combo offers decerning riders better cornering by virtue of the smaller rear wheel, while the bigger front keeps you rolling through the rock gardens. A steeper head tube angle works with the whole configuration for faster steering and responsiveness, delivering cornering mastery. On the other end of the G Enduro spectrum, the aluminum frame on the 2.0 and 3.0 dominates the gnarliest terrain with next-level straight-line stability. Developed to impress with an optimized frame geometry on 29” wheels, they combine a slacker head tube angle and a shortened rear frame for the right blend of stability and agility. Throw in a bigger battery and longer fork travel, and you’re ready to ride any line!

A GASGAS Enduro 3.0 electric mountain bike in action. Photo courtesy GASGAS. — A GASGAS Enduro 3.0 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy GASGAS.

If big, open, mountain adventures are your passion, our Trail eMTB is the bike for you. The full-suspension eMTB is built to tackle rides where climbing and descending is the name of the game – those super fun singletrack trails and exposed mountain-side tracks that put the biggest smiles on riders’ faces. In three right-for-the-ride configurations, choose from the 130mm 1.0 or 150mm 2.0, both built around a weight-optimized alloy frame providing outstanding performance for an incredible price. Looking to smash the big hits and then flick the bike into the corners? The 3.0 is the 150mm-travel, do-it-all bike with an ultralight carbon frame paired with an aluminum triangle—adding a touch of durability against rock strikes. The G Trail lineup delivers the perfect mix of travel and compact build to take your ride everywhere, conquering aggressive or smooth terrain with ease. And with 630Wh of power turning a 70 Nm motor, keep the ride going climb after climb. Big battery. Big motor. Big smiles.

A GASGAS Trail 3.0 electric mountain bike in action. Photo courtesy GASGAS. — A GASGAS Trail 3.0 electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy GASGAS.

A perfect entry point to eMTB, our G Cross Country features an aluminum 6061, weight-optimized frame in a hardtail build, allowing you to own steep inclines or blast out of corners thanks to its outstanding pedaling efficiency and reduced weight. The 27.5” configuration and compact design of the G Cross Country 1.0 is perfect for smaller riders looking for a confidence-inspiring ride, while the 29” setup on the 2.0 and 3.0 bikes eats up rough terrain. The idea behind the G Cross Country lineup is simple, provide a great entry point into the sport and the world of pedal-assist performance at a great price. Then all you have to focus on is having fun! If that fun includes a top-shelf component group, the 3.0, which still comes in at an amazing price, it provides those added features needed for pushing personal limits and, with a 630Wh battery capacity, doing it for longer. If you don’t need full suspension and want to save the weight but still want an incredible ride in the pits or on the trail, the G Cross Country has you covered.

All of our GASGAS Bicycles proudly feature a state-of-the-art motor at the heart of their build; these drive units are tried and trusted across the mountain biking community and boast cutting-edge technology.

Customers can already see the first GASGAS Bicycles products in authorized dealers in the U.S. today, and in Canada this February/March, with continued delivery of new products arriving throughout 2023.

For more information on the new range of GASGAS Bicycles, contact your local GASGAS Bicycles dealer.

Honda Announces Eight Returning Models For 2023

David Swarts

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January 10, 2023

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Honda Announces Eight Returning Models For 2023

Honda Announces Diverse Range of Returning Motorcycle Models

January 10, 2023 — ALPHARETTA, Georgia

Eight 2023 models included in first announcement of new calendar year

Sport, standard, adventure, dual sport and cruiser categories represented

In its first product announcement of the new calendar year, American Honda confirmed the return of eight motorcycle models across the sport, standard, adventure, dual sport and cruiser categories. Each of the eight returning models is capable of delivering a wide range of riding experiences, and taken as a whole, the group highlights the diversity of Honda’s motorcycle offerings.

With a deserved reputation for delivering value-focused but adrenaline-inducing fun, the CBR650R and CBR500R sport bikes are back, as are the CB1000R, CB650R and CB500F naked bikes. Extending the value-conscious theme to riders who enjoy venturing beyond the pavement’s end, the CB500X adventure bike and XR650L dual-sport machine are remarkably capable models. Meanwhile, the Fury continues its tradition of head-turning head style with an iconic V-twin sound, for the ultimate cruiser experience.

CB1000R

Known as much for its eye-catching design as its versatility, the CB1000R touts both flair and function. Aggressive on the road and in the parking lot, this naked bike stops traffic on coffee-shop runs, but its powerful engine and nimble handling make it a great choice for the canyons as well.

MSRP: $12,999

Color: Black

Available: February

Info

CBR650R

Few experiences can match ripping through a canyon on a sport bike, and the CBR650R delivers that thrill to a wide spectrum of riders. To achieve the ideal mix of practicality and performance, this model has a high-quality Showa Separate Function Big Piston fork, stylish aesthetics and up-to-date emissions technology. With a finely tuned chassis delivering light, responsive handling, and a high-revving inline four-cylinder engine that offers enjoyable power, the middleweight CBR650R is exciting to ride and a pleasure to own, a gratifying intersection of values for the modern sport bike rider.

MSRP: $9,899

Color: Grand Prix Red

Available: February

Info

CB650R

Honda has a long history of creating iconic middleweight standards, and that continues with the CB650R. Featuring a Showa Separate Function Big Piston fork, excellent emissions performance, stylish aesthetics and comfortable ergonomics, this middleweight model is ideally suited for everything from daily commutes to weekend outings on canyon backroads. A naked bike with looks that match its impressive performance, the CB650R touts ample power and a smooth delivery.

MSRP: $9,399

Color: Matte Gray Metallic

Available: February

Info

CBR500R

The CBR500R has become a staple for riders looking for the excitement of a sportbike in a smaller package. Featuring aggressive CBR styling and a snappy, parallel-twin-cylinder engine, the lightweight CBR500R is a sensible fit for everyone from beginners looking for their first bike to veteran riders seeking a fun ride, as it delivers unmatched fun at an affordable price.

MSRP: $7,299

Colors: Grand Prix Red; Sword Silver Metallic

Available: Summer 2023

Info

CB500F

Honed through decades of iconic Honda CB models, the CB500F has proven itself as an enjoyable and reliable naked bike for veteran and rookie riders alike. Mixing light weight and nimble handling with a smooth power delivery, the CB500F is a capable commuting tool that’s also ready for weekend outings or bike nights. Exceptionally versatile, the CB500F is proof that minimalist looks needn’t come at a price that breaks the bank.

MSRP: $6,799

Color: Matte Gray Metallic

Available: February

Info

CB500X

Designed and developed to address the disparate requirements of adventure riding while still delivering exceptional value, the CB500X is an exceptional urban commuter that’s also ready for off-road excursions and even canyon-riding outings. The essence of a modern mid-displacement adventure machine, the CB500X is both practical and rewarding to ride, and truly adventure-ready.

MSRP: $7,299

Color: Peal Organic Green

Available: February

Info

XR650L

A truly legendary machine—thanks in part to its proud Baja heritage—Honda’s tried-and-true XR650L continues to be a hit with dual-sport customers. Highly versatile, the model opens doors to adventure on single-track trails, dirt roads and backroads, while also delivering capable and affordable transportation in the city. It’s a combination of characteristics that promises to continue the XR650L’s popularity for years to come.

MSRP: $6,999

Color: White

Available: January

Info

FURY

Guaranteed to turn heads with its extreme, chopper-style design, the Fury nonetheless touts characteristics one naturally expects from a Honda—namely, functionality, finish, performance and stellar handling. Riders will appreciate the 1,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that sounds as good as it looks, as well as adjustable front and rear suspension, but what will stop bystanders in their tracks are the hard-tail styling and raked-out front end, which make this cruiser a rolling work of art.

MSRP: $11,499

Color: Pearl Yellow

Available: January

Info

MotoAmerica: 3D Motorsports Signs Black And Jigalov

David Swarts

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January 10, 2023

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MotoAmerica: 3D Motorsports Signs Black And Jigalov

3D Motorsports signs Jigalov and Black

3D Motorsports, Damian Jigalov, and Chase Black have inked a deal to race together in the 2023 MotoAmerica Championship. Jigalov will pilot a Suzuki GSX-R750 in Supersport as well as in the Daytona 200. Black will race an Aprilia RS 660 in Twins Cup.

3D Motorsports owner Dominguez commented, “We are excited to have Damian on the team. He has been on the podium in MotoAmerica Junior Cup and had a great year in WERA. We think we can grow and learn together and push to the front.

“Also, we have Chase, a great kid who I have watched grow as a rider over the years. We are excited to see Chase turn heads in Twins Cup after a very impressive test.”

Jigalov said, “I can’t wait to get started with 3D Motorsports! Big thank you to Dustin Dominguez for the opportunity. It feels great knowing that I will be part of the MotoAmerica paddock again with a chance to show what I’m capable of. Thank you to my previous sponsors MRCBX.com, Arch Motorcycles, Kaming Ko, and DSP MOTORSPORTS for getting me to this point.”

3D Motorsports' Dustin Dominguez (left) with Chase Black (right). Photo courtesy 3D Motorsports. — 3D Motorsports’ Dustin Dominguez (left) with Chase Black (right). Photo courtesy 3D Motorsports.

Black commented, “It truly has been an amazing opportunity to receive this offer from the the 3D Motorsports team. Getting to watch the owner and crew chief Dustin Dominguez ride and win championships at the highest level, just for him to find his way to me. Super excited to have this amazing crew chief and soon-to-be-teammates to lead me through my third year in professional racing.”

3D Motorsports would like to thank its partners Btec Turbines, 4SR, Blud Lubricants, Orient Express, K-Tech, CG Law, M4, Drippin’ Wet, AF1 Racing, Oklahoma Honda and Suzuki, Raceworx, and 3D Beaty.

Dakar Rally: Benavides Wins Stage Nine, American Howes Keeps Overall Lead

David Swarts

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January 10, 2023

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Dakar Rally: Benavides Wins Stage Nine, American Howes Keeps Overall Lead

STAGE NINE WIN FOR LUCIANO BENAVIDES AT 2023 DAKAR RALLY

HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING RIDER CLAIMS HIS SECOND STAGE WIN OF THE EVENT AS

SKYLER HOWES CONTINUES TO LEAD THE OVERALL

Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Luciano Benavides has topped day nine of the Dakar Rally. Securing his second stage win of the 2023 event, the Argentinian delivered a masterclass of rally racing, only dropping to second for a short distance before powering his FR 450 Rally home to post the fastest time. The result moves Benavides from 11th to seventh.

On a tough day at the Dakar, with difficult navigation and challenging terrain, Husqvarna Factory Racing excelled with both riders completing the special inside the top three. It was Benavides, setting off 21st into the stage that came out on top. The number 77 focused carefully on his road book and didn’t make the same mistakes as many of his rivals to lead the timesheets for the majority of the 358 kilometres raced against the clock. Happy with his result, his performance, and the feel of his machine, Luciano will now open Wednesday’s 624-kilometre stage 10 from Haradh to Shaybah.

Starting two places ahead of his teammate, Skyler Howes also put in a great ride to secure a third-place result. Losing a couple of minutes while trying to find one particular waypoint meant that the American was soon caught by Benavides, and from there the two pushed hard toward the refuelling stop and then on to the finish. Skyler retains his lead in the overall standings and will have the opportunity to chase down the second-placed rider on tomorrow’s stage 10.

Luciano Benavides: “I’m really happy. I cannot believe I won again, and to be the first rider at this Dakar to win twice feels incredible. It was a really hard stage with a lot of navigation – you really had to focus on your road book to make sure you didn’t make any mistakes. There were a lot of broken tracks and different lines, so it was easy to take a slightly wrong line. Now I am opening the stage tomorrow, so it will be full gas all the way to the finish.”

Skyler Howes: “The stage today was pretty tricky. We hit a section where we were missing one waypoint and it was in a place deep with stones and a lot of mud. It was tough to navigate through there and I knew we were going off the CAP heading a little, so I had to circle around to get back on track. Luciano caught up with me then and riding together we really put the charge on, partly because I thought I had lost a lot more time than I had. We did a good job all the way from the refuelling to the finish. The ground out there was incredible – there’s been so much rain, in some places it was like riding through giant rivers. It’s been a challenging day and I’m sure there will be plenty more to come as we make our way to the end.”

2023 Dakar Rally – Stage 9 Provisional Classification

1. Luciano Benavides (Husqvarna) 3:18:44

2. Toby Price (KTM) 3:19:46

3. Skyler Howes (Husqvarna) 3:21:41

4. Jose Ignacio Cornejo (Honda) 3:24:56

5. Kevin Benavides (KTM) 3:26:37

6. Toni Mulec (Husqvarna) 3:27:30

2023 Dakar – Provisional Overall Classification [After Stage 9]

1. Skyler Howes (Husqvarna) 33:55:57

2. Toby Price (KTM) 33:56:00

3. Kevin Benavides (KTM) 34:01:06

4. Adrien Van Beveren (Honda) 34:11:37

5. Pablo Quintanilla (Honda) 34:14:21

6. Mason Klein (KTM) 34:14:39

…

7. Luciano Benavides (Husqvarna) 34:17:32

More, from a press release issued by KTM Factory Racing:

RUNNER-UP RESULT FOR TOBY PRICE ON STAGE NINE OF DAKAR RALLY

Dakar Rally 2023 – Stage 9

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price has posted the second quickest time on today’s stage nine at the 2023 Dakar Rally, moving up to second overall in the provisional standings, just three seconds from the lead. Kevin Benavides also delivered a strong stage, completing the special as fifth fastest, he now lies third overall. Matthias Walkner sits 11th overall following a tough day in the Saudi desert.

Fresh from their rest day, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders came into the 686-kilometer stage nine looking to secure strong results on the long, 358-kilometer timed special. With the first half of the stage made up of riverbeds and canyons, navigating cleanly proved difficult for a lot of riders. The second half of the special opened into a wide expanse of dunes on the way to the bivouac at Haradh.

Racing inside the top two on time for the entire stage today, Toby Price put in an excellent ride that saw him finish the stage as runner-up. Coming in just over one minute behind the winner, Price’s performance saw him move up to second overall in the provisional standings, just three seconds back. The two-time Dakar champion will now follow today’s winner into Wednesday’s stage 10, aiming to minimize the time lost to the chasing pack.

Toby Price: “Yeah, it’s been a good day for me. It looks like the boys in front got lost just before the refuel. I navigated through there really good, so that meant I was able to make up some minutes. I just tried to push on a bit today, I was trying really hard to keep up a fast pace but not make any big mistakes. All in all, I felt really good today, it’s nice to feel fresh after the rest day. It looks like tomorrow will be mostly all sand, so we’ll try our best there and see where we end up.”

Also producing a solid result on day nine, despite a small navigational error early on, Kevin Benavides celebrated his recent birthday in style by placing fifth on today’s stage. The 34-year-old had moved into third place by kilometer 85, but then lost several minutes trying to find one particularly tricky-to-navigate waypoint. Although Kevin lost his second-place overall position to teammate Price, he still lies in third, just over five minutes behind the leader.

Kevin Benavides: “Today was a really hard stage with a lot of navigation. I tried my best to make a good pace and focus on my road book. I pushed really hard right from the beginning but then lost a bit of time with a really complicated note in the road book – thankfully not as much as some of the riders ahead of me. After that I pushed on towards the finish and had a good, trouble-free ride. I’m pleased with my result today, so we’ll see how things go tomorrow.”

Falling foul of the same complicated note on the road book as Benavides, Matthias Walkner struggled for longer as he tried to find the waypoint and as such dropped around 20 minutes on his rivals. Pushing hard for the remainder of the special, Walkner was able to regain a number of places to ultimately complete the stage in 27th. He now lies 11th in the overall standings.

Matthias Walkner: “It was a really hard stage for me today. Although I tried to give it my all, I got lost at one point and that cost me a lot of time. Not the best day for me at all. I spent most of the day riding on my own, so it was difficult to judge my pace, too. It’s frustrating because I feel stronger with my wrist, but it was just that one small mistake that has cost me some minutes. I’ll try my best tomorrow and keep on pushing to the finish.”

Wednesday’s stage 10 from Haradh to Shaybah will see riders cover a total distance of 624 kilometers, with a relatively short 114-kilometer timed special raced against the clock.

Provisional Results – 2023 Dakar Rally, Stage 9

1. Luciano Benavides (ARG), Husqvarna, 3:18:44

2. Toby Price (AUS), KTM, 3:19:46 +1:02

3. Skyler Howes (USA), Husqvarna, 3:21:41 +2:57

4. Jose Ignacio Cornejo (CHI), Honda, 3:24:56 +6:12

5. Kevin Benavides (ARG), KTM, 3:26:37 +7:53

Other KTM

27. Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 3:43:42 +24:58

Provisional Standings – 2023 Dakar Rally (after 9 of 14 stages)

1. Skyler Howes (USA), Husqvarna, 33:55:57

2. Toby Price (AUS), KTM, 33:56:00 +0:03

3. Kevin Benavides (ARG), KTM, 34:01:06 +5:09

4. Adrien Van Beveren (FRA), Honda, 34:11:37 +15:40

5. Pablo Quintanilla (CHI), Honda, 34:14:21 +18:24

Other KTM

11. Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 34:40:33 +44:36

More, from a press release issued by GASGAS Factory Racing:

CHALLENGING DAY IN THE DESERT FOR SANDERS AS STAGE NINE SERVES UP SOME TESTING NAVIGATION

RED BULL GASGAS FACTORY RACING’S DANIEL SANDERS DIGS DEEP TO COMPLETE THE SPECIAL AND REMAINS POSITIVE ABOUT THE DAYS AHEAD

In rally racing, anything can, and often does, happen. And today was one of those days for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Daniel Sanders. Faced with the arduous task of helping to lead out on stage nine after his runner-up finish on stage eight, Chucky frustratingly lost a substantial amount of time in a rocky plateau early on in the 358km special and would ultimately go on to finish in 20th place. Despite the challenging day in the saddle, importantly, Daniel is over the sickness bug which derailed his week-one charge and is now fighting fit and ready to attack, starting with tomorrow’s stage 10.

Week two of the Dakar begins with a frustrating start

Daniel lies ninth overall after challenging special stage

Stage 10 up next and it’s set to be a sandy one!

Daniel Sanders: “Today was always going to be tough leading out and early on I quickly caught up with the leading riders. There was a note in the roadbook to head up into a rocky plateau but once up there it was really hard to find the way. I reckon I lost around 15 minutes or so there, but that’s how rally goes sometimes. It’s a little frustrating but all I can do is keep moving forward and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

Eager to kick off week two with another solid stage result, Daniel maintained a blistering pace through the early part of the ninth special in his bid to lose the least amount of time as possible to his rivals, who all benefitted from following the tire tracks left in the sand by his awesome RX 450F. But as is sometimes the way in rally, navigating through unridden, rocky terrain with minimal roadbook instructions can be seriously tough. Nevertheless, despite knowing he was losing time, Sanders remained cool, eventually finding the right way. After that it was full gas to the finish line!

Results (provisional): Dakar Rally 2023, stage 9

1. Luciano Benavides (Husqvarna) 3:18:44

2. Toby Price (KTM) 3:19:46

3. Skyler Howes (Husqvarna) 3:21:41

20. Daniel Sanders (GASGAS) 3:38:25

Overall Provisional Classification (after stage 9)

1. Skyler Howes (Husqvarna) 33:55:57

2. Toby Price (KTM) 33:56:00

3. Kevin Benavides (KTM) 34:01:06

9. Daniel Sanders (GASGAS) 34:19:44

More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Honda Team:

A HARD DAY FOR THE TEAM REACHING HARADH

Back to the action after the rest day, the Dakar Rally entered its last week in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Stage number nine made the connection between Riyadh and Haradh, with a special stage of 359 kilometers and a liaison of 328 km. Wadis, canyons and dunes were the ingredients of a day where navigation was once again a key factor of success.

Monster Energy Honda Team had a hard day but keeps a strong position in the top ten. Jose Ignacio Cornejo, who is doing here his seventh Dakar, was today the fastest one of the squad. He finished in fifth place (6:12 minutes gap to the leader) and managed to climb some steps in the overall standings, where he sits now in eighth position. On his eighth Dakar Rally, Adrien Van Beveren reached Haradh in the 14th position (15:48 minutes gap to the leader) but did not compromise his ranking in the overall standings (4th place). Pablo Quintanilla is the most experienced of the team, he started the Dakar Rally back in 2013 and was second last year. He finished today’s stage in 18th position (18:36 minutes gap to the leader) and will start stage number 10 in the 5th place of the overall standings.

Tomorrow is time to move in the direction of Shaybah to race the 10th stage of the race. This selective section has been kept deliberately short – just 114 kilometers – as an approach into the bowels of the Empty Quarter. A long liaison (508 km) will take up most of the day, so this true appetizer will be mainly composed of the local delicacy: sand.

Ruben Faria

General Manager

“This was a difficult stage for Monster Energy Honda Team in the comeback from the rest day. Nacho Cornejo did very well and managed to approach himself to the top contenders and shorten his gap climbing one step in the overall standings. Adrien and Pablo had quite a hard day opening the track. They know how it is in the Dakar when you are in those circumstances. I know they did their best and were both able to keep positions in the overall standings, losing some time but still in a very good position to say a word in the discussion for this year’s title”.

José Ignacio Cornejo 11

“This was the first stage after the rest day. Navigation was kind of tricky, we started with some dunes then some rocky piste. I was feeling pretty good from the beginning, made no navigation mistakes and was riding at a good pace. Then I crashed, not too fast, but got stuck under the bike and damaged the road-book. I have to thank Santolino because he was there and helped me. I lost some minutes, but not too much and managed to continue at a good pace. ”

Adrien Van Beveren 42

“This was a hard day for me. I started fifth and at around kilometer one hundred the navigation was tricky in the big plateau and it was difficult to see the tracks. Then I found the waypoint and then we were all five riders together. Mason was riding without a road-book very close to me and around 20 km from the end he came from behind and we both crashed. So I am glad I could make it to the end of the stage.”

Pablo Quintanilla 7

“This was a tough day for us, the ones who were riding in front. I caught the group in front at around 120 km. There was a tricky note in the road-book close to a plateau and I lost 2 or 3 minutes there. Then Adrien caught me and we were riding together until the end. It was really difficult today, because the road-book had a lot of different directions. We knew we were going to lose some time. It is always easier when you come from behind. The Dakar is like this, sometimes you get a good position, others you just don’t”.

American Flat Track: KTM Continuing With Kopp & Whale In AFT Singles

David Swarts

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January 10, 2023

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American Flat Track: KTM Continuing With Kopp & Whale In AFT Singles

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING TEAM SET TO DEFEND AFT SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2023

REIGNING CHAMPION KODY KOPP JOINED BY TEAMMATE MAX WHALE ONCE AGAIN

January 10, 2023

MURRIETA, Calif. – A new racing season is underway in 2023 and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Flat Track team has been hard at work preparing for the upcoming American Flat Track Championship. Reigning AFT Singles Champion, Kody Kopp, will proudly display the No. 1 plate aboard his KTM 450 SX-F in 2023 as he returns to defend his first title in the class, alongside fierce championship contender and teammate, Max Whale.

With Kopp leading the charge in 2022, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing duo amassed eight race-wins and 10 podium finishes in AFT Singles competition, delivering two top-five finishes in the overall championship standings. For the now 18-year-old Kopp, championship management was in full effect through the latter half of the year, and he did what he needed to do to clinch his first-career title in his first year with the team. Showcasing impressive speed and skill across all tracks and racing conditions, Kopp has his sights set on upping the ante in 2023.

Kody Kopp: “The 2023 season is here and so are the new KTM 450 SX-Fs! I am really liking the new bike and I am confident we are going to pick up right where we left off in 2022, with winning the AFT Singles Championship. It’s the first time in my career that I will get to run the #1 plate and I don’t have plans on letting go of it anytime soon.”

Kody Kopp (1), the defending AFT Singles Champion. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

Heading into his third year with the team, Whale looks to build upon his strong showing in the first two seasons aboard the KTM 450 SX-F. The aussie came out swinging in 2022, finishing on the podium in four of the first five races, before a mid-season knee injury kept him off the grid for two rounds. Clawing his way back to the center of the podium with a significant win at the Peoria TT, Whale finished the season strong with a top-five overall.

Max Whale: “The 2023 season, what’s there not to be excited for? The team is on the all-new and improved 2023 KTM 450 SX-F. We have the same team as last year, so I’m super excited. Kody and I had a great year last year, we were both inside the top five with Kody winning the championship. Missing a few rounds definitely hurt my overall points, but needless to say, our team was the most dominant singles team there was. To say I’m more than excited for next year is an understatement. I’m definitely working as hard as I can, and I just want to be on top in 2023. I have one goal for next year and that’s to win the championship.”

Max Whale (18). Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

Chris Fillmore: “Our plan remains the same for 2023 – to win races and take the championship. We had a very successful 2022 season in terms of race results, which is something for our entire team to be proud of. We expect that the other teams will be working even harder, so it will not come easily for us, but we will take what was learned from the past season and push forward. Kody will now be starting his sophomore season on the team with the confidence and expectation to lead the pack. Max, without the mid-season injury would have finished second overall in 2022, and I know his focus is set on the top spot. We’re moving to a newest generation KTM 450 SX-F for 2023 and from early tests, the riders feel that this bike is better in every way for Flat Track. So, only time will tell, but we will work hard over the winter break and anxiously await the start of the season in Daytona.”

For more information on the American Flat Track Championship, please visit their website www.americanflattrack.com.

American Flat Track: 2023 Race Schedule Finalized

David Swarts

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January 9, 2023

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American Flat Track: 2023 Race Schedule Finalized

Final 2023 Progressive American Flat Track Schedule Announced

Tickets for Select Rounds on Sale Now!

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 9, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing has confirmed its finalized 18-round schedule for the upcoming 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season.

The previously announced provisional schedule laid out an ideally balanced slate in terms of discipline, geography, and pacing. Other key features were visits to venues both historic and new, the alignment of the calendar with multiple high-profile rallies and holiday weekends, and a more compact timeframe that fits all 18 rounds in during motorcycle riding season. The final schedule features five Miles, five Half-Miles, four Short Tracks, and four TTs.

The final schedule further solidifies that intent with the confirmation of the return of the Arizona Super TT and the West Virginia Half-Mile.

The Arizona Super TT returns following its 2019 debut, joining the entertainment options planned during the weekend of the 29th annual Arizona Bike Week on April 1. The ‘19 event marked the first Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Main Event win of JD Beach’s career – one that kicked off a run that has seen him score six of seven TTs wins in the years since.

On July 1, Progressive AFT will compete in the state of West Virginia for the first time since 2006 with the West Virginia Half-Mile. The event will take place at the scenic West Virginia Motor Speedway in Mineral Wells, W.V. This mountainside 5/8-mile track is both renowned for its high speed and beautiful settings, promising to serve as an incredible stage for the world’s greatest motorcycle dirt track racers next summer.

The final 2023 Progressive American Flat Track schedule follows:

March 9, 2023 – DAYTONA Short Track I, Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

March 10, 2023 – DAYTONA Short Track II, Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

March 25, 2023 – Senoia Short Track, Senoia Raceway, Senoia, GA

April 1, 2023 – Arizona Super TT, Chandler, AZ

April 22, 2023 – Dallas Half-Mile, Devil’s Bowl Speedway, Mesquite, TX

May 6, 2023 – Ventura Short Track, Ventura Raceway, Ventura, CA

May 13, 2023 – Sacramento Mile, Cal Expo, Sacramento, CA

May 27, 2023 – Red Mile, The Red Mile, Lexington, KY

June 17, 2023 – DuQuoin Mile, Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Du Quoin, IL

June 24, 2023 – Lima Half-Mile, Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima, OH

July 1, 2023 – West Virginia Half-Mile, West Virginia Motor Speedway, Mineral Wells, WV

July 8, 2023 – Orange County Half-Mile, Orange County Fair Speedway, Middletown, NY

July 22, 2023 – Bridgeport Half-Mile, Bridgeport Speedway, Swedesboro, NJ

July 30, 2023 – Peoria TT, Peoria Motorcycle Club, Peoria, IL

August 6, 2023 – Buffalo Chip TT, Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Sturgis, SD

August 12, 2023 – Castle Rock TT, Castle Rock Race Park, Castle Rock, WA

September 2, 2023 – Springfield Mile I, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL

September 3, 2023 – Springfield Mile II, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL

Tickets for select rounds are on sale now, and the remainder of the rounds will be made available for purchase in the weeks ahead at https://www.americanflattrack.com.

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2023 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.

Dakar Rally: American Howes Leading At Halfway Point

David Swarts

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January 9, 2023

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Dakar Rally: American Howes Leading At Halfway Point

SKYLER HOWES LEADS 2023 DAKAR RALLY AT HALFWAY POINT

HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING NOW LOOK AHEAD TO FINAL SIX DAYS OF RACING IN SAUDI ARABIA

Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Skyler Howes leads the 2023 Dakar Rally at the close of the first week of racing. Although times at the top of the leaderboard are close, Howes has delivered solid, consistent performances throughout the event so far, which has seen him slowly climb the ranks, right to the top. Luciano Benavides has also enjoyed a solid first week of racing, overcoming a couple of small errors early in the race to go on and secure a career-first stage win. The Argentine lies 11th with six stages left to race.

In what many are calling one of the toughest Dakar Rallies for decades, riders have faced close to 5,700 kilometres of riding, with almost 3,000 raced against the clock over a wide variety of terrain. That challenge, mixed in with technically demanding navigation and horrendous weather conditions, has made the 45th running of the event one to remember.

Relaxing on rest day, Husqvarna Factory Racing now look ahead to week two and the six stages that take the race to the finish line in Dammam on January 15. Holding a narrow 13-second lead in the overall standings, Skyler Howes will be looking to take maximum advantage of his later start position for Tuesday’s stage nine – another day billed to deliver unforgiving terrain and complicated navigation.

Joining Howes in the chase tomorrow, Luciano Benavides will also be looking to use the speed that took him to the stage win on day six to hunt down his rivals, post a strong stage result, and climb his way up the RallyGP leaderboard. Currently lying 11th, 24 minutes down on his teammate, the number 77 will be aiming to reduce that deficit over the next couple of days.

Skyler Howes: “The first eight days at the Dakar this year have certainly been very challenging. For me, I’d say it’s been one of the harder Dakars in recent history, partly because of the sheer time on the bike and the kilometres we’ve covered, but also because those long stages have been held over really rough and varied terrain. To make it to rest day is super important, that’s rule number one for sure. Up to rest day we’ve almost covered the same distance as the whole of last year, so that puts things into perspective. I think the hard work the team have put in all year is evident here as we’re leading the overall, but we still have a full week of racing left to do. I’m happy to lead the overall but there’s still a long way to go.”

Luciano Benavides: “It’s been a bit of an up-and-down first eight days for me. Obviously to take my first stage win felt incredible, that was like a dream come true, but then it meant opening stage eight, which has to have been one of the toughest to lead out into. I also made a couple of mistakes earlier on in the week, which cost me some time. I’m happy with how I’m riding, and the bike is performing so well, I just need to stay focused now going into the second week. Hopefully we’ll get a lot more dunes and tricky navigation, so that the times are shaken up a little and I’ll have a good chance to attack the stages and work my way back up the standings. I know I have the pace, so I’ll keep on pushing.”

Norbert Stadlbauer – Rally Team Manager: “Our Husqvarna riders were among the favourites for the race starting off. And with Luciano’s stage win and Skyler leading the overall, they have clearly demonstrated they are in the fight for the win. The first week has seen approximately 70 percent of the race completed, and after Tuesday’s stage nine, the timed specials are far shorter. The team are ready to attack each one and take the fight for the win to the finish.”

2023 Dakar – Provisional Overall Classification [After Stage 8]

1. Skyler Howes (Husqvarna) 30:34:16

2. Kevin Benavides (KTM) 30:34:29

3. Mason Klein (KTM) 30:34:29

4. Toby Price (KTM) 30:36:14

5. Pablo Quintanilla (Honda) 30:37:01

6. Adrien Van Beveren (Honda) 30:37:05

…

11. Luciano Benavides (Husqvarna) 30:58:48

Video: 1991 F-USA, Methanol Monster GSX-R1100s Vs. YZR500s

David Swarts

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January 8, 2023

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Video: 1991 F-USA, Methanol Monster GSX-R1100s Vs. YZR500s

Classic video from Round Four of the 1991 Formula USA series, at Seattle International Raceway (a.k.a. Pacific Raceways) in Kent, Washington.

We will post more vintage racing videos as they become available.

This video was uploaded to YouTube by Superbike Underground and is used here with permission of the California Superbike School.

Video: 1990 F-USA At Willow, 1100 Superbikes Vs. A Nitrous-Injected TZ250

David Swarts

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January 7, 2023

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Video: 1990 F-USA At Willow, 1100 Superbikes Vs. A Nitrous-Injected TZ250

Classic video from the 1990 WERA Pro Series/Formula USA race event at Willow Spring International Raceway, in Rosamond, California.

We will post more vintage racing videos as they become available.

This video was uploaded to YouTube by Rider Files’ Larry Lawrence and is used here with permission of the California Superbike School.

Sakakura Retires After 43 Years At Yoshimura

David Swarts

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January 6, 2023

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Sakakura Retires After 43 Years At Yoshimura

Longtime industry figure Don Sakakura has retired from his role as President of Yoshimura Racing LLC, ending a 43-year career with Yoshimura.

Sakakura started working for Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc. in January 1980 as a race mechanic. That year, he helped Wes Cooley win the second of his two AMA Superbike Championships.

Sakakura went on to become the Sr. Vice President of Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc. a position he held from 2005 until 2018, when Yusaku Yoshimura was appointed CEO/COO of Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc.

Sakakura then moved into an advisory role with Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc. and continued as President of Yoshimura Racing LLC, a position he held from 2002 until his retirement at the end of December 2022.

During much of his time at Yoshimura, Sakakura oversaw not only the company’s activity in professional racing (road racing, Supercross/motocross, ATV, and more) but he also led the company’s parts manufacturing business.

In Sakakura’s tenure at Yoshimura, the brand won 24 AMA Pro road racing Championships (14 in Superbike, six in 750 Supersport/Superstock, three in Supersport, and one in Formula Xtreme) and 294 races road races (208 in Superbike, 57 in 750 Supersport/Superstock, 24 in Supersport, and five in Formula Xtreme), according to the company.

A custom plaque given to Don Sakakura by Yoshimura. Photo courtesy Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc.

GASGAS Bicycles Bringing E-Mountain Bikes To North America

January 11, 2023