World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

Event preview: The time is now as 2022 FIM EWC season is all set for Le Mans lift-off

*Fans are back as 45th 24 Heures Motos opens eagerly anticipated EWC campaign

*Big entry featuring 13 FIM EWC champions, six bike brands and three tyre makes

*Track action from Thursday with start of big race set for 15h00 CET on Saturday

*Non-stop broadcasting on the Discovery platform scheduled

Six months since the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship finale was decided by 0.070 seconds, the ultimate test of rider and machine is back on track at Le Mans next week (14-17 April) for the 45th 24 Heures Motos.

The opening event of the 2022 EWC season is one of three day and night races on the calendar along with the returning 24H SPA EWC Motos at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium and the centenary edition of the Bol d’Or at Circuit Paul Ricard in France.

Using the 4.185-kilometre Bugatti Circuit, the 24 Heures Motos promises to be an action-packed contest with a three-year-high 52-bike entry featuring 13 riders who have been part of FIM Endurance World Championship-winning line-ups.

ESSENTIALS

What? 45th 24 Heures Motos, FIM Endurance World Championship 2022, Round 1

When? 14-17 April 2022

Where? Bugatti Circuit, Le Mans, France

Track length: 4.185 kilometres

Race starts: 15h00 CET, Saturday 16 April

EWC Qualifying best lap: Team SRC Kawasaki France (Randy de Puniet) 1m35.730s, 2017

EWC Race best lap: Team SRC Kawasaki France (Randy de Puniet) 1m36.408s, 2017

Open to fans once again after two years of COVID-19 restrictions, the 24 Heures Motos matches its four-wheeled equivalent for atmosphere, while winning carries the same kudos, as well as the crucial championship points.

Last year’s event, held in mid-June, ended with a home victory for the Yoshimura SERT Motul team, which is based a short distance from the Le Mans paddock and claimed the FIM Endurance World Championship crown at the end of the season.

Returning to its traditional April date will increase the challenge facing the riders, teams and tyre manufacturers, particularly due to the prospect of changeable weather, less daylight and the chance of colder ambient and ground temperatures.

Local hero Louis Rossi explained: “The weather is always the question. At Le Mans it can be good one day and the next it can be dramatic. You have to adapt in every situation and the night is a difficult moment because you have to adapt to the cold conditions. But this is the 24 hours and it’s part of this spectacular race.

“If it’s cold it’s very physical because you have a lot of tension and you are quite tired and you have to try to manage your brain and your body to be fit during all night. Then, after the sun starts to come up, you regain some energy to finish the race. But for sure the end of the night is every time a challenging moment.

“But it’s a mythical race, especially for me because I am born in Le Mans and I live in Le Mans so it’s a very special track for me. I like the atmosphere and for sure the comeback of the public is great for everybody. We can’t wait for the race to happen.”

24 HEURES MOTOS FAST FACTS

*The 2022 24 Heures Motos is the 45th edition of the event and the second year running as the FIM EWC season opener.

*Following two years without spectators due to COVID-19, fans are back for this season.

*The first 24 Heures Motos took place from 22-23 April 1978 with Jean-Claude Chemarin and Christian Léon riding a Honda to victory.

*It followed the Bol d’Or – the other French 24-hour classic bike race appearing on the EWC schedule – relocating to Circuit Paul Ricard after the 1977 event.

*After starting at 14h00 local time in 2020 and 2021, the 2022 edition of the 24 Heures Motos is set to be flagged-off at 15h00.

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.

David Chevallier, a contender for the Dunlop Superstock Trophy as part of the Falcon Racing team, said: “Obviously podium finishes for the whole season would be beautiful and we are allowed to dream. After all, with this team we are already in a dream and we can do beautiful things together.”

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.

Dunlop Superstock Trophy teams (in competition number order):

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, Players, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Pitlane Endurance – JP3, Énergie Endurance 91, Team LH Racing, ADSS97, Aviobike, Falcon Racing, Wójcik Racing Team STK

Independent Trophy teams (in competition number order):

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, Players, Motobox Kremer Racing, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Wójcik Racing Team, 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 changes to the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship will be issued next week.

Bugatti Circuit in 100 words: The ACO held its first bike race in September 1912, long before the Bugatti Circuit’s inauguration in September 1966 with a track length of 4.422 kilometres. Using a portion of the Circuit de La Sarthe, including the famous start/finish straight, the Dunlop Esses and the Ford Chicane, plus a more twisty infield section, the first endurance race for motorbikes on the Bugatti Circuit took place in 1969, while the current track layout of 4.185 kilometres has been in use since 2008. As well as hosting the EWC, the Bugatti Circuit is home to the Grand Prix de France MotoGP event.

THE BIG NUMBER: 33

A total of 33 teams have registered for the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship with 14 chasing success in the Formula EWC category and 19 going for gold in Superstock.

RIDERS SAID WHAT?

Florian Alt, Germany (Viltaïs Racing Igol, Yamaha YZF-R1)
“We have a new line-up for 2022 with my new team-mates Steven Odendaal, Erwan Nigon and James Westmoreland and I’m really happy to have them in the team. It looks like we are all quite good together and we all have a similar intention for the bike’s set-up and the team. The team worked hard during the winter to make the bike more comfortable and more rideable over the 24 hours. We are really calm, really focused and the tests were really positive.”

Gregg Black, France (Yoshimura SERT Motul, Suzuki GSX-R1000)
“The first day [of the Pre-Test] went well, in dry conditions with sunshine. We were able to set good times in racing conditions. We are quite satisfied with the new settings and developments on the bike. It bodes well for the race. I had the only opportunity of the day to start on new tyres for a quick lap but I did a high-side between the Dunlop curve and the Chapelle corner. It was a pretty quick fall and then it started to rain. Having a little pain in my ankle I didn’t ride the second day to recover and be in shape for the race.”

Niccolò Canepa, Italy (YART Yamaha Official Team EWC, Yamaha YZF-R1)
“We said the target [on the first morning of the Pre-Test] was just to get the feeling back with the tyres and the bike but the lap times were really good and I was super-happy. The lap times were good for the confidence and I was smiling in the crash helmet when I saw the lap time. We have new Brembo brake calipers and a brake system. We also have some changes to the electronics so we can improve the lap times.”

David Checa, Spain (ERC Endurance-Ducati, Ducati Panigale V4R)
“For sure it’s a great opportunity for me to be with Ducati because it’s the brand my brother [Carlos] won his world title in Superbike. For me it would be great [to do the same] and I try to do my best. It’s a funny thing because my first year with Yamaha I was world champion and my first year with Kawasaki I was world champion so it would be nice to be world champion [in my first year] with Ducati. Maybe I’m dreaming but why not? The team has learned a lot already and I am happy to be part of this project. I will use all my experience on every single point to help bringing it further ahead. It’s new adventure with a special brand and I can’t wait.”

Jérémy Guarnoni, France (BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, BMW M 1000 RR)
“It was really two good days of testing because we got some dry action but also rode in the wet. So we could try the bike in absolutely all conditions and that is really important in view of a 24-hour race. The bike was good in the wet and we have a great pace also in the dry. We still have some work to do, especially to prepare for the fast lap time in qualifying where we still have a lot of potential. Overall, I am happy and the package of riders, team and motorcycle can fight for the win. We just need to work a little bit more during race week and try to do our best.”

Etienne Masson, France (Webike SRC Kawasaki France, Kawasaki ZX-10RR)
“The main objective [of the Pre-Test was] to feel comfortable on the bike but also to discover the whole team. I have complete confidence in Gilles Stafler, who has extensive experience in endurance racing, and I know that the bike will be competitive from the outset. There are obviously areas to improve but I know that we will be ready for the 24 Heures Motos. The bike is very sound, which is extremely important for us riders because we need to have confidence in the bike and to be able to ride safely. I’m comfortable with it and I’m very happy with it. I know that we will fight for victory. All the riders are very experienced, ride very well and we are fairly consistent in our way of riding, which is a big plus for the performance of the machine.”

Gino Rea, Great Britain (F.C.C. TSR Honda France, Honda CBR1000RR-R)
“We did a lot of positive work [during the Pre-Test] on electronics, the chassis and tyre setting with different compounds for different conditions and got into work with the whole team. We are trying to do a consistent pace that is really good for us, and our race pace is very good. We are going in the right direction with the bike and looking forward to the race.”

RECENT WINNERS

2021: Yoshimura SERT Motul (Gregg Black, Xavier Siméon, Sylvain Guintoli) 855 laps

2020: F.C.C. TSR Honda France (Josh Hook, Freddy Foray, Mike De Meglio) 816 laps

2019: Team SRC Kawasaki France (Jérémy Guarnoni, David Checa, Erwan Nigon) 839 laps

2018: F.C.C. TSR Honda France (Josh Hook, Freddy Foray, Alan Techer) 843 laps

2017: GMT94 Yamaha (Mike Di Meglio, David Checa, Niccolò Canepa) 860 laps

PROVISIONAL TIMETABLE

Key FIM EWC timings are as follows:

Thursday 14 April:

09h45-11h45: Free Practice

16h00-16h20: First Qualifying (Blue Rider)

16h30-16h50: First Qualifying (Yellow Rider)

17h00-17h20: First Qualifying (Red Rider)

17h30-17h50: First Qualifying (Green Rider)

20h30-22h00: Night Practice

Friday 15 April:

10h20-10h40: Second Qualifying (Blue Rider)

10h50-11h10: Second Qualifying (Yellow Rider)

11h20-11h40: Second Qualifying (Red Rider)

11h50-12h10: Second Qualifying (Green Rider)

12h45: Post-Qualifying digital press conference

Saturday 16 April:

09h00-09h45: Warm-up

15h00: Start of 45th 24 Heures Motos

Sunday 17 April:

15h00: Finish of 45th 24 Heures Motos

15h05: Podium

15h30: Post-race digital press conference

LIVE TIMING

24 Heures Motos (14-17 April): https://www.its-live.net/#/live/ewc/2022

FINAL ENTRY LIST

The final entry list plus details of the 33 permanent FIM EWC teams for 2022 will be online soon at FIMEWC.com.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Racers Complete Rain-Affected Test In Portugal

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Racers Complete Rain-Affected Test In Portugal

The sun comes out and Rookies get serious in Portimão

Going after their dreams, 26 young riders seized the opportunity to get to grips with the challenging Portimão circuit and their KTM RC 250 Rs over three days of testing for the 16th Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup season.

After seeing ex-Rookie Enea Bastianini take the MotoGP World championship lead with victory in the USA on Sunday the current Rookies could not wait to get out on track. Unfortunately it was a miserably wet and cold start on Monday. The weather improved through day two and on Wednesday was very pleasant.

Gustl Auinger rider coach

“It is always the same at the start of the season. We feel so responsible for the riders and hope that we have invited the right youngsters who will enjoy the experience and be able to make the best of the opportunity.

“The weather was a bit unkind to us, so we had more dramas to start with than we would like but it was wonderful to see how the riders settled down. On a dry track, they quickly improved and the difference between the newcomers and the more experienced is already very small. They are all getting on well with each other and offering a little help here and there. It’s great to see.”

Dani Ribalta rider coach

“The first days were difficult with the weather, so we have increased the sessions on the final day from 4 to 6 to give the riders more time in the dry to get the feeling and set up the bikes for the race weekend.

“Last year, we had a big group of fast riders who moved on from the Cup. This year we have a lot of newcomers (14), but we can already see that I think there will be some very close fast racing and the times are already good. The riders who have stayed in the Cup who were not the fastest last year have been working through the winter and we can see their skills have improved, so it is going to be a very interesting season.”

Jacob Roulstone 17-year-old newcomer from Australia

“It’s fantastic. I’m really enjoying getting to grips with the bike and the situation, learning how the Cup works. It’s so very professional, more so than I expected, and I’m looking forward to a great year.”

Cormac Buchanan 15-year-old New Zealander in his second season

“It feels very different to this time last year. I know what to expect and I can get a lot more out of the motorcycle. My riding has developed a huge amount in 12 months, so I can be a bit more relaxed, really enjoy the riding and be more competitive.”

Collin Veijer 17-year-old from the Netherlands in his 3rd year

“Monday was very difficult, wet, running in the bike. Tuesday was also a little bit tricky, but we have had good dry track time, a chance to push a bit more but not too much as this is not the race.

“I am feeling good on the bike, really looking forward to the season. No, I don’t feel any pressure because this is my third year. I am going to enjoy it.”

2022 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Calendar

April 23-24 – Races 1/2 Portimão, Portugal

April 30-May 1 – Races 3/4 Jerez, Spain

May 28-29 – Races 5/6 Mugello, Italy

June 18-19 – Races 7/8 Sachsenring, Germany

July 9-10 – Races 9/10 KymiRing, Finland

August 20-21 – Races 11/12 Spielberg, Austria

September 17-18 – Races 13/14 Aragón, Spain

Entry List

2 Amaury Mizera FRA

5 Tatchakorn Buasri THA

8 Eddie O‘Shea GBR

9 Freddie Heinrich GER

10 Guillermo Moreno MEX

11 Ruché Moodley RSA

12 Jacob Roulstone AUS

14 Cormac Buchanan NZL

18 Angel Piqueras ESP

21 Demis Mihaila ITA

27 Rico Salmela FIN

28 Máximo Quiles ESP

29 Harrison Voight AUS

42 Soma Görbe HUN

48 Gabin Planques FRA

55 Alex Venturini ITA

57 Danial Shahril MAL

58 Luca Lunetta ITA

67 Casey O’Gorman GBR

69 Marcos Ruda ESP

77 Filippo Farioli ITA

78 Jakob Rosenthaler AUT

81 Lorenz Luciano BEL

93 Fadillah Aditama INA

95 Collin Veijer NED

99 José Rueda ESP

Court Decides Against Track Day Rider Who Sued Laguna Seca

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

Court Decides Against Track Day Rider Who Sued Laguna Seca

Thomas W. Wills, Judge of the Superior Court of Monterey County, California, has issued a Statement of Decision in favor of Laguna Seca Raceway owner Monterey County and its operational partner at the time SCRAMP (Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula) in a multi-million-dollar civil lawsuit brought by track day rider Daniel Kim, Jr.

Kim was participating in a track day event March 14, 2015, when he rode off the track surface in Turn Five, hit a sandbag or sandbags used to keep water and dirt erosion away from the track surface, and suffered serious injuries.

In 2016, Kim (who had signed liability release waivers and had ridden, run off track, and even crashed during track days at Laguna Seca Raceway prior to the 2015 incident, according to the Statement of Decision) sued track day organizer Keigwins@theTrack, Monterey County, and SCRAMP for negligence due to the use of sandbags in a run-off area of the track, among other things.

A key element of the defense’s success was the involvement of attorney (and former motorcycle road racer) Stephen L. Hewitt. Hewitt initially was retained by the insurance company used by Keigwins@theTrack, and the Southern California-based attorney designed an extensive defense strategy based on his experience in motorcycle racing and his expertise in liability releases and the law.

During the trial, the plaintiff dismissed Keigwins@theTrack from the lawsuit, in what may have been an attempt to remove Hewitt from the case, but the insurance company continued to pay Hewitt to consult with the lawyers defending Monterey County and SCRAMP.

“This case was hard to defend because I knew it was so important. It was very personal,” Hewitt told Roadracingworld.com. “This case could have meant the end to track day riding or it could have really changed track day riding because of the situation with the cost of insurance. Keigwins got put out of business by this.”

In a detailed Statement of Decision dated April 6, 2022, Judge Wills wrote:

“In summary, and for the reasons set forth above, the Court finds that there was neither gross nor ordinary negligence on the part of Defendants SCRAMP and County of Monterey which contributed to Plaintiff’s harm.

“There was no extreme departure by either defendant from what a reasonably careful person would do in the same situation to prevent harm to others. Nor was there a failure to exercise any care. There was no failure by either defendant to exercise reasonable care in any respect of the design, maintenance, operation, or inspection of the track or its surroundings; and no causal connection existed between any failure to warn, to inspect the track surroundings or to investigate prior crashes and Plaintiff’s collision. Neither defendant unreasonably increased a risk to Plaintiff over and above risks inherent in the activity of a track day; and neither defendant unreasonably failed to minimize risks not inherent in the activity or unreasonably exposed Plaintiff to an increased risk of harm. There was no causal connection between any lack of financial oversight, lack of financial management, or any financial problems, on the part of either defendant and Plaintiff’s collision. In view of the above, the Court need not find, or assess any percentage to, comparative fault on the part of Plaintiff.”

A hearing will be held in May to give the plaintiff an opportunity to object to the court’s decision, but the outcome of the hearing should not have a significant impact on the case.

“I think it’s doubtful that the court will sustain any of [the objections],” said Hewitt. “There might be a minor language change or two, but the plaintiff will have the opportunity to challenge the statement of decision. Once that challenge on the trial court level is done, through a series of procedures, that decision will become the judgement. Then the plaintiff’s counsel will have the right to file an appeal. I don’t think they will.”

Read the entire Statement of Decision below. Use the scroll and zoom tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all pages of the document.

Kim vs Monterey County Decision_16CV001236

MotoAmerica: Dunlop Will Remain Official Tire Through 2025

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

MotoAmerica: Dunlop Will Remain Official Tire Through 2025

Dunlop Signs On For Three More Years As Official Tire Of MotoAmerica

Now In Its Eighth Season As Official Tire Supplier To MotoAmerica, Dunlop Onboard Through 2025 With New Three-Year Deal

IRVINE, CA (April 13, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Dunlop will remain as the Official Tire Supplier to the championship through 2025 with the series inking a new three-year contract with the high-performance tire manufacturer.

The 2022 season marks Dunlop’s eighth as the spec tire for all six classes of the Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship.

“Dunlop has been a wonderful partner with us since we started MotoAmerica in 2015,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This will be our third three-year agreement with Dunlop and that shows the confidence we have in each other going forward. Dunlop uses our series to develop product that ultimately gets passed down to consumers and the tires they provide for our racers continue to get better. With improvement in grip, feel, and durability, lap times drop, our riders get faster and everyone in the series benefits. We’re looking forward to the coming season of racing and our continued relationship with Dunlop.”

“Racing is very important to Dunlop and racing in the MotoAmerica series has proven to be beneficial to the development of our high-performance tires,” said Dunlop Senior Vice President Mike Buckley. “Our design and service teams are passionate about what they do at MotoAmerica races and ultimately what we learn at the track is passed on to the high-performance tires we make for our customers, many of whom are racing fans. We’ve had a great relationship with MotoAmerica since they took over the series in 2015 and we’re happy to be able to continue that for at least another three years. The 2022 season is already off to a great start, and we’re thrilled to be a big part of it.”

The Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship and the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Series just concluded its opening round at Circuit of The Americas with round two slated for April 22-24 at Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Royal Enfield Reintroduces Classic 350 To North America

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

Royal Enfield Reintroduces Classic 350 To North America

THE TIMELESS EXPERIENCE IS REBORN WITH THE 2022 ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC 350

Royal Enfield is proud to reintroduce the Classic to the North America – the model that elevated Royal Enfield to a global brand

Milwaukee, WI – Royal Enfield, the global leader in midsize motorcycles (250-750cc), is proud to introduce the all-new 2022 Classic 350 motorcycle to North America. With over 3 million Classic motorcycles sold in more than 75 countries, the Classic is the best-selling Royal Enfield in the 120-year history of the brand. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the Classic 350 marks the beginning of the next chapter of this iconic model.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a suggested retail price of $4,499-$4,699 depending on color. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.

The design inspiration of the Classic range dates back to the Royal Enfield G2 350 Bullet in 1948, a motorcycle that revolutionized the industry with the introduction of the articulating swingarm. While this innovation transformed the performance of motorcycles at the time, the modern Classic 350 invites us to rediscover the experience of pure motorcycling. Nostalgic style cues blend with a confidence-inspiring ride, with modern touches and a refined overall feel that celebrates the original unhurried, uncomplicated feel of an authentic handcrafted motorcycle.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350 is powered by an all-new 349cc air-/oil-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine, launched recently on the Meteor 350. Distinctive post-war styling continues to define the Classic line, the newest generation built around an all-new chassis with improved strength for a stable, comfortable ride and lightweight handling. Developed through cooperation between teams based at Royal Enfield’s two state-of-the-art technology centers—in India and in the UK—the reborn Classic 350 arrives as a genuine global collaboration, reflecting 120 years of motorcycle history.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has an air-and-oil-cooled, DOHC 349cc single-cylinder engine. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.

While the timeless experience remains central to the Classic 350, modern touches such as electronic fuel injection, plush suspension and front and rear disc brakes with dual channel ABS bring comfort and performance into the modern age. Feel the familiar thump at idle, but note the smooth glide of the all-new counterbalanced 349cc single-cylinder engine at speed. True to its lineage, the 2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350 brings the golden age of motorcycling into the modern era.

The smooth, docile nature of the Classic 350 and lightweight handling make it an ideal motorcycle for city riding and back roads, alike. The standard-style upright seating position makes for a comfortable ride whether you’re taking in the sights, or making your way across town. The beautiful chrome spoked 19-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear (“Dark” models feature 10-spoke alloy wheels) together with CEAT Zoom Plus tires provide a smooth ride, capable of soaking up bumps and uneven surfaces. The low center of gravity and responsive agility make it easy to maneuver in tight areas, while striking a good balance with on-road stability. The result is a very confidence-inspiring ride that novice riders are sure to appreciate.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes in nine different colors. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.

Smooth shifting from the five-speed gearbox ensures a wide, yet capable spread of power across the torque range. The Classic 350 is content in stop-and-go riding through town, and will also glide along at highway speeds with ease. The 3.43-gallon fuel tank ensures fewer trips to the gas station, and the ECO mode on the digital display lets you know when the Classic 350 is sipping fuel at its most efficient point.

The 41mm front suspension offers 130mm of travel, and the twins shocks in the rear feature 6-step adjustable preload so riders can dial in their preferred setting. The plush seat provides further comfort for the ride, and the inviting 31.7-inch seat height make for an easy reach to the ground—another point of confidence for learning riders. All Classic 350 models sold in North America are also equipped with passenger seats (which may be removed), passenger pegs and handholds.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350 is available in nine different styles and colorways. The Dark Stealth Black and Dark Gunmetal Grey models, identifiable by the dark color schemes and 10-spoke alloy wheels with tubeless tires, are available for $4599. The Signals models are inspired by Royal Enfield’s association with Indian armed forces, and commemorate 65 years of working with the Indian army. Signals Desert Sand and Signals Marsh Grey feature 1950’s military stylized graphics, and are available for $4599.

Later this season, look for the release of the Halcyon collection, styled after the original 1950’s British roadsters. Halcyon Forest Green, Halcyon Black and Halcyon Blue will be available for $4499. The Chrome Red and Chrome Brown models, featuring a mirror finish and special badging, will also be arriving later in 2022, and will be available for $4699.

2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Pricing

Dark Stealth Black $4599

Dark Gunmetal Grey $4599

Signals Desert Sand $4599

Signals Marsh Grey $4599

Halcyon Forest Green* $4499

Halcyon Black* $4499

Halcyon Blue* $4499

Chrome Red* $4699

Chrome Brown* $4699

*Arriving later in 2022

Commenting on the launch of the all-new Royal Enfield Classic 350, Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd. said, “The Classic launched in 2008, was a modern and capable motorcycle that symbolized the timeless post-war styling from the heydays of the British motorcycle industry. Its captivating design language and simplicity coupled with dependability catapulted the Classic to global popularity, and it went on to redefine the middleweight (250-750cc) motorcycle segment.

“We’ve paid great attention to every aspect of the motorcycle, right from its stunning look, to the perfection in parts and the touchpoints, to its impeccable riding performance. The engine is super smooth, intuitively responsive and engaging, and has that gorgeous growl on acceleration. The all-new chassis lends enormous confidence while riding, with surefooted handling and agile braking. The motorcycle feels in control and well-mannered around tight corners. The motorcycle is, without a doubt, class-leading, and feels incredibly refined and enjoyable to ride.

“Throughout our history, we have been consistent in our pursuit to build timeless, beautiful motorcycles that are great fun to ride, and the new Classic 350 does just that. The all-new Classic 350 combines this quintessential, retro design with a modern and refined ride experience. We are confident that the all-new Classic 350 will once again redefine the midsize motorcycle space, globally.”

About Royal Enfield

The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.

Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.

Aprilia Pro Experience Offers Instruction From Biaggi, Iannone, Savadori

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

APRILIA PRO EXPERIENCE

AN EXCLUSIVE COURSE WITH HEAD COACH MAX BIAGGI, ALONG WITH LORENZO SAVADORI AND ANDREA IANNONE; ON THE TRACK WITH THEM WILL BE APRILIA RACING MOTOGP RIDERS ALEIX ESPARGARÓ AND MAVERICK VIÑALES

A UNIQUE CHANCE TO GO OUT ON TRACK WITH THE GREAT APRILIA CHAMPIONS AND LEARN THE MOST “RACING” SECRETS FROM INSTRUCTORS WHO ARE LEGENDS OF MOTORCYCLING

APRILIA PRO EXPERIENCE WILL BE HELD IN MISANO ON 8 MAY AND WILL BE RESERVED FOR A LIMITED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS. REGISTRATION OPEN ON APRILIA.COM

Noale, 13 April 2022 – It’s the opportunity that all sport riders have always dreamed of: turning laps on the track along with some of the greatest champions of motorcycle racing, following their lines, benefiting from their tips, understanding how to better exploit the bike to be faster and safer on the track.

Sunday 8 May, at the Misano World Circuit, Aprilia will offer the chance to make this dream come true thanks to the Aprilia Pro Experience, a unique riding course, reserved for a truly limited number of participants, with great champions the likes of Max Biaggi, Lorenzo Savadori, and Andrea Iannone acting as special instructors.

Each “super coach” will be assigned to 4 participants, thereby ensuring as much attention and supervision as possible for everyone both during the training activities in the box and during practice on the track. The exclusive package includes six sessions, twenty minutes each, astride the bike that has set the bar in the superbike category for years, the refined and powerful Aprilia RSV4 Factory, the same one the rider-coaches will also be riding, to guarantee a truly memorable day.

All the sessions will alternate with a briefing and debriefing with analysis of the on-board video thanks to cameras mounted on each bike. The exclusive treatment also includes lunch in the Aprilia hospitality and a dedicated photo shoot.

During the day, the two Aprilia Racing MotoGP riders, Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, will also take to the track and be available to participants during the training sessions to share their experiences at the international race riding level: further added value on an epic day of passion and fun.

Full information is available at APRILIA.COM.

26th Annual Roadracing World Young Guns, In The April Issue

Trudy Ulrich

-

April 13, 2022

0

26th Annual Roadracing World Young Guns, In The April Issue

Featured in the April 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

26th Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Awards

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed North America had no new, up-and-coming young racers.

This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 26th consecutive year of showcasing what is actually an abundance of new talent. The young riders recognized here are the top 28 most promising young road racers under age 19 in North America. Each is being featured individually on www.roadracingworld.com. Here are the Roadracing World Young Guns, Class of 2022…

Eli Banish

Hayden Bicknese

Chase Black

Isaiah Burleson

Torin Collins

Julian Correa

Gabriel Da Silva

Kristian Daniel, Jr.

Blake Davis

Alexander Enriquez

Ben Gloddy

Liam Grant

Damian Jigalov

David Kohlstaedt

Rocco Landers

Joseph LiMandri

Kensei Matsudaira

Yandel Medina

Rossi Moor

Gus Rodio

Mickey Lou Sanchez

Tyler Scott

Jesse James Shedden

Aden Nraug Hli Thao

Maxwell Toth

Max Van

Owen Williams

Kayla Yaakov

They’re quick, they’re talented and they are the next wave of road racing talent in America. Check out the Class of 2022, Young Guns style, in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the April 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the April 2022 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

—

Roadracing World Young Guns 2022: Damian Jigalov

David Swarts

-

April 13, 2022

0

Roadracing World Young Guns 2022: Damian Jigalov

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 26th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 11 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (11 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2022 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

Damian Jigalov

Age: 17.

Current home: East Dundee, Illinois.

Current height/weight: 5’10”/145 pounds.

Current school grade level: 12^th grade.

Began riding at age: 3 years.

First road race: 2013, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Northwoods GP, Ultralight Superstock, 3rd place.

Current racebike: Yamaha YZF-R6.

Current tuner/mechanic: mrcbx.com.

Primary race series: WERA National Challenge Series.

Top sponsors: DSP Honda, Arch Motorcycle Co., mrcbx.com, OneX USA, WERA, Podium Motorsports, Pirelli, and Pop Shadow Decals.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, finished 2^nd in WERA National Challenge Series Open Superbike and Open Superstock Championships, finished 2^nd in WERA Sportsman North Central Open Superbike and Open Superstock Championships (2 wins, 14 podiums with WERA in 2021); 2020 season, raced in European Talent Cup (best race finish was 22^nd); 2019 season, finished 7^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (1 podium finish, 6 top-5 finishes); 2018 season, finished 12^th in CIV (Italian) Pre-Moto3 Championship (best race finish of 6th), finished 13^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup (best race finish was 2^nd, twice), won WERA Sportsman D Superstock National Championship, won 18 WERA races; 2017 season, placed 8th in CIV (Italian) Pre-Moto3 4T Championship (best race finish was 5th), placed 4th in Yamaha bLU cRU R3 Cup Final; 2016 season, placed 10th in CIV (Italian) Pre-Moto3 Championship (best race finish was 5th).

2022 racing goals: Win 600 Superstock and 600 Superbike WERA National Challenge Championships.

Racing career goal: Make a living racing motorcycles.

Racing hero: Marc Marquez.

Favorite track: Mugello.

Favorite hobby: Fitness.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Pursuing a career in business.

Bagger Racing League Announces Three-Round 2022 Schedule

David Swarts

-

April 12, 2022

0

Bagger Racing League

The Bagger Racing League is back at Utah Motorsports Campus for Round 1 of our highly anticipated Battle of the Baggers 2022 Season. Join us May 13-14th for the opportunity to see the world’s only Harley-Davidson VS Indian racing series!

Join us for a jam packed weekend of Harley VS Indian road racing with six classes, daily stunt shows, vendor row, New Racer School, BRL Speed Shop and much more! Don’t miss out on all the action.

We’ll see you in Utah!

Interested in racing at Round 1 of Battle of the Baggers Utah?

Check out our BRL Class and Eligibility Overview to see what it takes to qualify. Register now at Baggerracingleague.com

Can’t make it to Round 1?

Our 2022 calendar is now live!

-Don’t miss the BRL at Classic Track Day Carnival of Speed! Classic Track Day will be hosting a Bagger Racing League exhibition Road Race at the famous Willow Springs Raceway for all you American Vtwin Racers! Tickets and BRL exhbibition registration now on sale at Baggerracingleague.com

-Catch us for Round 2 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the world famous Milwaukee Mile Speedway Labor Day weekend, during Harley-Davidson’s Hometown Rally, September 1-4th 2022!

-Join us for Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach, Florida at the Daytona International Speedway for our 2022 Bagger Racing League World Championship!

Harley-Davidson Unleashes New Nightster

David Swarts

-

April 12, 2022

0

NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON NIGHTSTER MODEL STARTS A NEW CHAPTER IN THE SPORTSTER MOTORCYCLE STORY

New Liquid-Cooled Revolution Max 975T Powertrain Tuned for Muscular Torque

MILWAUKEE, WI (April 12, 2022) – The 2022 Harley-Davidson® Nightster™ model starts a new chapter in the Harley-Davidson Sportster® motorcycle story – a leap forward in performance and design while remaining an accessible entry point to motorcycling and the brand. This all-new motorcycle combines a classic Sportster model silhouette with the on-demand performance of the new Revolution® Max 975T powertrain and a host of contemporary electronic rider aids and features. The 2022 Nightster model redefines the Sportster motorcycle experience for a new generation of riders.

“The Nightster is an instrument of expression and exploration, underpinned by performance,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson. “By building on the 65-year Sportster legacy, the Nightster provides a canvas for creativity and personalization, offering the ultimate platform for customization and expression for new and existing riders.”

A profile view of the new 2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

New Revolution Max 975T Powertrain

At the heart of the 2022 Nightster model is the new Revolution Max 975T powertrain. It is a liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin with a torque curve that stays flat through the broad powerband – and engine performance designed to deliver strong acceleration and robust power through the mid-range. The length and shape of the intake velocity stacks, combined with the airbox volume, are tuned to maximize performance across the engine speed range. The profiles of dual overhead camshafts and Variable Valve Timing phasing on the intake valves are designed to match the performance of this engine.

The new Harley-Davidson Nightster is powered by a liquid-cooled 90-horsepower Revolution Max 975T V-Twin engine. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

Revolution Max 975T Engine Specs

Displacement 975cc

90 HP (67 kW) @7500 RPM

70 ft. lbs. (95 Nm) peak torque @ 5000 RPM

97mm bore x 66mm stroke

Compression Ratio 12:1

Hydraulic valve lash adjustment ensures quiet operation and eliminates the need for costly, complicated service procedures. Internal balancers help reduce engine vibration to enhance rider comfort and improve vehicle durability. The balancers are tuned to retain just enough vibration to make the motorcycle feel alive.

Powerful Agility

The Nightster model pairs a nimble, lightweight chassis with a powerful engine tuned for strong mid-range performance, an ideal combination for navigating urban traffic and charging along curving backroads. Mid foot controls and a low-rise handlebar put the rider in a centered, comfortable posture on the bike. Unladen seat height is 27.8 inches. The low seat height combined with a narrow profile makes it possible for most riders to confidently place feet down flat at a stop.

The Revolution Max 975T powertrain is the central, structural component of the Nightster motorcycle chassis, which significantly reduces motorcycle weight and results in a very stiff chassis. The tail section structure is lightweight aluminum. The swingarm is formed of welded rectangular steel tubing and is an attachment point for the dual rear shock absorbers.

Front suspension is 41mm SHOWA® Dual Bending Valve conventional forks designed to provide improved handling performance by keeping the tire in contact with the road surface. The rear suspension features dual outboard emulsion-technology shock absorbers with coil springs and a threaded collar for pre-load adjustment.

Rider Safety Enhancements

The Nightster model is equipped with Rider Safety Enhancements* by Harley-Davidson, a collection of technologies designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration and braking. The systems are electronic and utilize the latest chassis control, electronic brake control and powertrain technology. Its three elements are:

Antilock Braking System (ABS) is designed to prevent the wheels from locking under braking and helps the rider maintain control when braking in a straight-line, urgent situation. ABS operates independently on front and rear brakes to keep the wheels rolling and prevent uncontrolled wheel lock.

Traction Control System (TCS) is designed to prevent the rear wheel from excessive spinning under acceleration. TCS can improve rider confidence when available traction is compromised by wet weather, an unanticipated change in the surface, or when riding on an unpaved road. The rider can deactivate TCS in any Ride Mode when the motorcycle is stopped and the engine is running.

Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS) is designed to adjust engine torque delivery and reduce excessive rear-wheel slip under powertrain-induced deceleration, which typically occurs when the rider makes an abrupt down-shift gear change or quickly reduces the throttle while on wet or slippery road surfaces.

Selectable Ride Modes

The Nightster model offers selectable Ride Modes that electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle, and the level of technology intervention. Each Ride Mode consists of a specific combination of power delivery, engine braking, ABS and TCS settings.

The rider may use the MODE button on the right-hand controller to change the active ride mode while riding the motorcycle or when stopped, with some exceptions. A unique icon for each mode appears on the instrument display when that mode has been selected.

Road Mode is intended for daily use and delivers balanced performance. This mode offers less-aggressive throttle response and less mid-range engine power than Sport Mode, with a higher level of ABS and TCS intervention.

Sport Mode delivers the full performance potential of the motorcycle in a direct and precise manner, with full power and the quickest throttle response. TCS is set to its lowest level of intervention, and engine braking is increased.

Rain Mode is designed to give the rider greater confidence when riding in the rain or when traction is otherwise limited. Throttle response and power output are programmed to significantly restrain the rate of acceleration, engine braking is limited, and the highest levels of ABS and TCS intervention are selected.

The 3.1-gallon lightweight plastic fuel cell is located below the seat – what appears to be a traditional fuel tank forward of the seat is a steel cover for the airbox. The fuel fill is reached by lifting the hinged locking seat. Locating the fuel cell below the seat optimizes the capacity of the engine intake airbox and moves the weight of fuel lower in the chassis compared to a traditional fuel tank location, which results in a lower center of gravity for improved handling and easier lift off the side stand.

The Nightster model features a round 4.0-inch-diameter analog speedometer with an inset multi-function LCD display mounted on the handlebar riser. All-LED lighting is designed to deliver style and outstanding performance while also making the motorcycle conspicuous to other motorists. The Daymaker® LED headlamp has been designed to produce a homogenous spread of light, eliminating distracting hot spots. Combination rear brake/tail/signal LED lighting is located on the rear fender (US market only).

Fresh Design Based on Classic Form

All-new from the wheels up with a look that is lean, low, and powerful, the Nightster model conveys classic Sportster model styling cues, most obviously in the exposed rear shock absorbers and the shape of an airbox cover that evokes the iconic Sportster walnut fuel tank. The round air intake cover, solo seat, chopped fenders and speed screen recall elements of recent Sportster models, while a side cover that conceals the under-seat fuel tank has a shape similar to the previous Sportster oil tank. The Revolution Max powertrain is the centerpiece of the design, framed by snaking exhaust headers and finished in textured Metallic Charcoal powder coat with Gloss Black inserts. A cover below the radiator conceals the battery and helps the radiator appear less prominent. The wheel finish is Satin Black. Paint color options include Vivid Black, Gunship Grey, and Redline Red. Gunship Grey and Redline Red color options will be applied only to the airbox cover; the front and rear fenders and speed screen are always finished in Vivid Black.

Harley-Davison® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories has created a range of accessories for the Nightster motorcycle, designed to enhance fit, comfort and style.

The Nightster model arrives at authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships globally beginning in April 2022. US Base MSRP is $13,499 (Vivid Black) and $13,899 (color options).

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2022 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, gear, accessories and more.

*Disclaimer: Available traction is determined by the road/tire interface. The systems are only able to adjust brake pressure or powertrain torque in an attempt to keep the forces at the tire from exceeding available grip. These technologies do not have the ability to increase grip, to intervene when the rider has not made a brake or throttle application, or to directly influence vehicle direction. The rider is ultimately responsible for steering, speed and path corrections.

World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

April 13, 2022

The start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2021. Photo courtesy Eurosport Events.