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MTRSPT1 Now Available 24/7 On MotoAmerica’s YouTube Channel

MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that it is partnering with MTRSPT1, the 24/7 live-streaming network that delivers motorsports entertainment, including the MotoAmerica Championship, to bring its 24-hour live stream to MotoAmerica’s YouTube channel during the off-season.

MTRSPT1’s live stream includes motorsports entertainment from the world of racing on both two and four wheels, including i-Racing, as well as modalities on the water and in the air. MTRSPT1 also airs garage shows and build shows as regular features on its impressive list of motorsports programming.

The MTRSPT1 network reaches 9.2 million households in U.S. over-the-air broadcast and 300 million TVs and boxes in 100-plus countries via FAST (Free Add Supported Television).

“Adding MTRSPT1 to our YouTube channel is the perfect complement to our MotoAmerica racing content, ‘Pressure to Rise,’ and other programming we have on the channel,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “MTRSPT1 offers around-the-clock access to all forms of racing, making it a valuable addition for racing enthusiasts.”

MTRSPT1 is a true destination for motorsports enthusiasts, reaching over 9.2 million households in U.S. over-the-air broadcast and 300 million TVs, devices and apps in more than 200 countries via FAST (Free Add Supported TV). The network broadcasts 300-plus live races annually and nearly 3000 hours of motorsports content featuring over 60 different racing series. MTRSPT1 is accessible on platforms such as LG Channels, Hisense/VIDAA Channels, TCL Live+, Telus, and others, as well as Over-The-Air local broadcast station distribution in 63 U.S. markets.

“We’re excited to partner with MotoAmerica and bring their passionate fanbase even more racing action during the off-season,” said John Duff, COO of MTRSPT1. “This collaboration allows us to expand the reach of MTRSPT1’s diverse motorsports coverage and introduce new audiences to the excitement of live racing from around the globe. We believe this is a winning combination that will benefit both organizations and motorsports enthusiasts alike.”

EWC: Yoshimura SERT Celebrates 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship

Yoshimura SERT Motul’s capture of the 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship was celebrated among the stars of international motorcycle sport on the Spanish island of Mallorca.

Riders Gregg Black, Dan Linfoot and Étienne Masson were joined at the FIM Awards, which took place at the Palma Convention Centre overlooking the Balearic island’s capital city, by Yoshimura SERT Motul Team Director Yohei Kato and Team Manager Damien Saulnier to accept their coveted gold medals from Ignacio Verneda, FIM Deputy President.

Taking place at the end of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports’ 10th season as promoter of the EWC and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM)’s 120th anniversary year, the 2024 FIM Awards was attended by 1000 guests. They included FIM MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin, FIM Superbike world champion Toprak Razgatlioglu, Ana Carrasco, the winner of the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship, and Bartosz Zmarzlik, world champion in FIM Speedway Grand Prix, which is also promoted by Warner Bros. Discovery Sports under a long-term alliance with the FIM.

Yoshimura SERT Motul’s 13th EWC title triumph in its various incarnations came at the end of another action-packed EWC season. The Suzuki-powered squad, which also featured Albert Arenas and Cocoro Atsumi in its line-up, won twice during the season with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team and Team HRC with Japan Post claiming a victory apiece. Notably, Linfoot, a new Yoshimura SERT Motul recruit for 2024, finished on the podium in all four EWC races, a feat recognised by a selection of international media who voted him the Hero of the Year in the first EWC Expert Views.

Sunset at the 2024 Bol d’ Or at Circuit Paul Ricard. Photo courtesy EWC.

The other EWC award winners of 2024 were National Motos Honda FMA, which won the FIM Endurance World Cup for Teams and the Dunlop Superstock Trophy, Yamaha, which topped the final standings in the FIM Endurance World Championship for Manufacturers and Honda, the winner of the FIM Endurance World Cup for Manufacturers. KM99, meanwhile, completed the 2024 EWC season as the leading independent team.

Yohei Kato, Yoshimura SERT Motul Team Director, said: “We owe this result to the people who work behind the scenes at Yoshimura; the designers and engineers. They built a very good bike, so I’d like to thank all those people behind us. And, of course, I’d like to thank the whole Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We fight for the title every season, and I’m very proud of the team and this result.”

The Yoshimura SERT MOTUL team took two victories in four races in 2024 on their Suzuki GSX-R1000R. Photo courtesy EWC.

Dan Linfoot, Yoshimura SERT Motul rider, said: “It was a fantastic season, great memories and great feelings. I’m super-proud of Yoshimura SERT Motul for delivering the results and the championship. To be able to call myself a world champion is special, I’m super-pleased.”

FIM Endurance World Championship 2025 calendar

Round 1: 24 Heures Motos, Le Mans, France: 17-20 April

Round 2: 8 Hours of Spa Motos, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium: 6-7 June

Round 3: 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, Suzuka Circuit, Japan: 1-3 August

Round 4: Bol d’Or, Circuit Paul Ricard, France: 18-21 September

MotoAmerica: Karns Performance Fielding Three-Rider Suzuki GSX-8R Team

This year will be a new step and challenge for Karns Performance Racing. We will be participating in the full season of Twins Cup on the Suzuki GSX8R fielding 3 riders. Joining us for this large step in development will be TST Industries. This pairing will allow them to grow their already expansive product offering. We could not be more excited about this partnership that will help take us to the next level.
 
We will also be using Adrenaline Engineering’s data services to help sort this new platform with Andreani USA handling our Nitron suspension. Spiegler USA brake lines and NG Rotors will get the bikes stopped. Blud Racing Lubricants will keep the engines running in top form. Woodcraft Technologies are taking care of rider and crew controls. We will be running M4 exhausts and Meck’s Auto Body will make our bikes the best looking on and off the racetrack.
Elisa Gendron Belen is returning for her third season with Karns Performance. Photo courtesy Karns Performance.
 
Elisa Gendron Belen – Elisa is returning to our team for the 3rd season. She is hoping to build on what she learned in JR Cup, having her best season yet, and bring it to Twins. She is a fan favorite, and breath of fresh air in the paddock bringing excitement to the team.
 
Levi Badie will run the entire MotoAmerica Twins Cup schedule with Karns Performance.
Levi Badie #71 – Levi ran a limited JR cup schedule last season but still competed for wins at just about every round. Including landing on the podium several times with winning the Brainerd round. The New Suzuki 8R suits Levi’s style and stature much better than the JR Cup bike. We expect Levi will shine this season.
 
Isaac Woodworth is moving up from Junior Cup into MotoAmerica Twins Cup with Karns Performance. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/Courtesy Karns Performance.
 
Isaac Woodworth #27 – Coming from a promising year in JR Cup where Isaac was always in the battle and fighting for podiums at almost every round. We think the platform and help that Isaac will have this year will allow him to get to the next level. Fighting for wins.

CMRA Honors 2022-2023-2024 Champions In Its 50th Year


CMRA Honors its 2022-2023-2024 Champions

The Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) wrapped up its 50th Anniversary year holding its Awards Banquet this past Saturday, December 7, 2024, at The Palladium in Waco, TX. With over 140 people in attendance, the event was live streamed on the CMRA’s YouTube channel, and was full of fun and surprises. Awards and congratulations were presented to the 2022 – 2024 Sprint and Endurance champions in attendance, as well as other special annual awards. The organization did not have a banquet the two previous years.

All CMRA staff and corner workers were recognized, with additional recognition given to all the racers that have participated in the series the past few years.

Special thank were given to the Series, Special Event, and Banquet Raffle Item sponsors:
2024 Race Series: BISON, Hart Photography, RaceWorX, RES, RideSmart Motorcycle School.

2024 Special Events: Artisan’s Editions, BTech Turbines, Complete Vascular Care, Leather & Lace Racing Leather Repair, The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, PLLC.

2024 Banquet Raffle Items: CMRA Office, Racer’s Edge Performance/Dunlop, Eagles Canyon Raceway, Kasey Lewis, Motorsport Ranch Cresson, Pirelli (Chris Hamlett), Racer’s Edge Performance/Dunlop, Southern Adrenaline.

From left, CMRA 2024 Champions Alan Phillips, JC Camacho, and Michael Klesel at the CMRA Awards Banquet held in Waco, Texas. Photo by Sasha Lovan/courtesy CMRA.

The 2024 Overall Expert #1 was JC Camacho, 2023 Overall Expert went to Michael Klesel, with JC Camacho earning 2022 Overall Expert.

The 2024 Rookie Expert Award went to Zack Foster for the most overall points earned as a first year expert. 2023 Rookie Expert was Parker Williams, with 2022 Rookie Expert being Ross Brady.

The 2024 Top Novice award went to Kellan Funkhouser, 2023 Top Novice was Zack Foster, and Parker Williams earned 2022 Top Novice.

The 2024 Overall Ultra LIghtweight Endurance #1 Plate went to the Band of MIsfits team of: JC Camacho, Hayden Bicknese, Michael Klesel, Derek Thomas, and David Roth Jr. The Ram Air 400 team of: Zack Foster, Jeremy Keller, Shane Smith, Chad Steinhoff earned the 2023 Overall Ultra Lightweight Endurance. 2022’s Overall Ultra Lightweight Endurance was the VIllage Idiots team of: Cory Burleson, Isaiah Burleson, Josiah Burleson, Chris Headley, John Orchard.

2024 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H Alan Phillips, #1M Michael Klesel, #1L Jeff Bean, #1U Zack Foster, #5 JC Camacho, #6 Aiden Sneed, #7 Christopher Simmons, #8 Ryan Max Johnson, #9 Kyle Coles, #10 Danny Dominguez.

2023 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H Alan Phillips, #1M Michael Klesel, #1L Ryan Max Johnson, #1U Aiden Sneed, #3 Kyle Coles, #5 Dezrae Caldwell, #7 Danny Dominguez , #8 AJ Pyne, #9 Parker Williams, #10 JC Camacho .

2022 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H JC Camacho, #1M Kyle Coles, #1L Walter Walker III, #1U Dezrae Caldwell, # 4 Alan Phillips, #5 Kevin Nolde, #7 Andrew Forsythe, #8 Ross Brady, #9 John Orchard, #10 Philip Lawlis.

The individual Expert, Novice, and Endurance class champions are listed below. Full results and series standings can be found here: Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association – Results. The Awards Banquet can be viewed on the CMRa YoutTube channel here: CMRA – YouTube

The CMRA would like to again thank the competitors, race staff, corner workers, sponsors, friends, family and supporters for making 2024 an exciting season. Fierce competition brought the Texas based club to a whole new level and ended the 50th Anniversary year strong!

The next CMRA season will begin on February 14-16, 2025, at MSR Houston, in Angleton Texas. Details for the weekend will be announced when finalized.

Registration Opens For 2025 FIM R3 Blu Cru World Cup

Registration for the 2025 FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup remains open until midnight on February 28th 2025, but with only 30 grid slots available and interest in the series continuing to grow, now’s the time to book your place on the grid. 

Register now: https://www.yamaha-racing.com/blu-cru/r3-fim-world-cup/register/

The series, which has held FIM World Cup status since last year, is open to riders aged 14 and over and plays an integral role in the FIM Superbike World Championship and the SBK Roadway program, while the award-winning Yamaha bLU cRU program forms a part of the Yamaha Racing pyramid foundation.

Aldi Satya Mahendra is the perfect example of the effectiveness of this progression; the Indonesian star made his R3 bLU cRU debut in 2023, finishing second in the championship before moving up to the FIM Supersport300 World Championship where this year he was crowned champion after an impressive season. The 18-year-old will now move up to the Supersport World Championship for 2025 with the brand new R9. 

In 2025 the FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup will once again race at six rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship.

 

2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup Calendar

* Pre-Season Test: Misano 18 March

* Round 1 – Portimao, Portugal: 28-30 March

* bLU cRU Training Camp: TBC

* Round 2 – Misano, Italy: 13-15 June

* Round 3 – Donington Park, United Kingdom: 11-13 July

* Round 4 – Balatonring, Hungary: 25-27 July

* Round 5 – Motorland Aragon, Spain: 26-28 September

* Round 6 – Estoril, Portugal: 10-12 October

 

In 2024 the R3 bLU cRU World Cup races were broadcast live on YouTube for the first time with each race attracting thousands of viewers worldwide, showcasing the series’ global appeal. 

This season was thrilling throughout with plenty of photo finishes, impressive overtakes and big groups battling until the chequered flag. The championship went down to the wire in the last race of the year between Spanish stars Gonzalo Sanchez and Marc Vich, with the latter taking the crown in style in front of huge crowds of superbike fans at Motorland Aragon. The Mallorcan will now move into the FIM Supersport300 World Championship in 2025.

Entry costs for the 2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup are aimed at keeping it as accessible as possible to young riders. Therefore, the entire riding package, including a Yamaha R3, leathers, gloves, boots, helmet, tyres, fuel, and season entry fees, are all provided for €32,500 (Euros).

At each round, there is a dedicated FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup Village in the heart of the WorldSBK paddock, where the young riders receive coaching, technical support, and mentoring from the bLU cRU coaches and ambassadors to help develop their fledgling racing careers.

The ultimate prize on offer is a ride in the class that will replace the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship in 2026 with Yamaha Motor Europe support. 

The rider who finishes second in the standings will receive a 50% discount on their 2026 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup registration, with the third-place finisher earning a 25% discount. 

Click the button below to register to compete in the 2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup now before registration closes at midnight on 28 February 2025.

 

Ducati Announces Limited Edition Panigale V4 Tricolore

A tribute to all things “Made in Italy” and Ducati history: the Panigale V4 Tricolore. A collector’s bike produced in a limited capacity of 1,000 numbered units that will make the hearts of all enthusiasts beat faster, reinterpreting the livery of the 1984 750 F1, a bike that began exactly forty years ago. A Tricolore livery that in the following years was dedicated to the most prestigious versions of the various generations of Ducati Superbikes, ever since the first 851 Desmoquattro in 1988.

Innovation, tradition, and passion come together in one extraordinary tale. The Panigale V4 Tricolore is a renewed promise: that of getting excited again, of experiencing the privilege of a history that continues to define the future of sports motorcycles. A bond that spans time, celebrating Ducati’s engineering artistry and the indomitable Italian spirit that animates each of its creations.

For Ducati, the Panigale V4 Tricolore is the latest innovation of 2024. It has been an incredible year, in which the Borgo Panigale-based company has won the MotoGP Riders’ and Manufacturers’ titles for the third time in a row, coming close to absolute domination with nineteen victories out of twenty Grand Prix. Added to this are the World Manufacturers’ title in Superbike, the Riders’ title in Supersport, and the Italian title on debut with the 450 MX in Italian Motocross. There were also many national victories, including the Italian Superbike and the U.S. Superbike, which marked Ducati’s return to victory in the U.S. after 30 years. Last but not least, the historic successes in the Japanese Superbike Championship of the Panigale V4 managed by the Kagayama team.

Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock attended this world premiere alongside Ducati Motor Holding Vice President Global Sales Francesco Milicia and Director Strategy & Style Center Andrea Ferraresi, who said, “In Miami and at Art Basel in particular, we feel at home. Ducati is the only motorcycle brand able to combine sophisticated technology and sensual beauty, but also to break out of the typical schemes of sport liveries to create works of art, using the motorcycle as a canvas.”

A close-up shot of the Tricolore’s fairing. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The global premiere of the exclusive motorcycle was unveiled to the public with an off-site event, with the participation of partner Eataly, during Art Basel week in Miami Beach, one of the most prestigious art fairs in the world. Surrounded by special clients and Ducatisti at the event, guests came together to celebrate their passion and loyalty for the brand and 40 years of Tricolore.

“The partnership with Ducati is based on sharing the same values, DNA and goals. We both aim to bring Italian excellence to the world, inspiring people with the authentic Italian art of living,” said Tommaso Brusò, CEO of Eataly North America. “This event, in such an iconic location during Art Basel week, is the perfect opportunity to reinforce our message and to bring our communities together.“

The Panigale V4 Tricolore, proudly designed by Drudi Performance and the Centro Stile Ducati, is based on the new Panigale V4. Its white, red, and green livery, designed asymmetrically for the first time on the bike, celebrates the colors of the Italian flag by combining them with the black and white of the checkered flag, the symbol of victory, shown on the lower part of the fairing. The number plates with the number one on the front and the sides of the fairing resemble those of the sportiest and most sophisticated Ducatis, such as the Panigale V4 R or the Multistrada Pikes Peak.

A livery that underlines the aerodynamic surfaces of the bike, with more taut lines that highlight the change in style that marked, with the Panigale V4 2025, the transition from the sixth to the seventh generation of Ducati Superbikes. The base of the Panigale V4 Tricolore is the new V4 presented last July at World Ducati Week and the leader of an important evolutionary leap thanks to an integrated approach to aerodynamics and design, a completely revised chassis, and innovative electronic solutions such as the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) and the Race eCBS.

For the first time in Ducati history, a Tricolore is enriched with technical equipment that improves its performance on the track, making this bike even more unique. The Panigale V4 Tricolore is equipped with five-spoke carbon fiber rims that reduce the weight by two pounds compared to the forged ones of the Panigale V4 S, lowering the moment of inertia by 12% at the front and 19% at the rear.

Tail and seat of a Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The new Panigale V4 Tricolore is the first production bike in the world to be equipped with the Front Brake Pro front braking system, consisting of two finned Brembo T-Drive discs measuring 338.5 mm in diameter and 6.2 mm thick, which increase braking power and performance consistency. These discs, tested by Ducati Factory Riders in the 2024 Race of Champions, are derived from the racing discs mounted in the Superbike World Championship on the most demanding circuits and are paired with Hypure™ calipers. The calipers feature an anthracite anodizing treatment and an oversized Brembo logo. Finally, the front brake pump is an MCS 19.21 with remote brake lever position adjustment, as in MotoGP and Superbike.

A dry clutch, adjustable footpegs in solid aluminum, and a GPS module complete the special equipment of the Tricolore. Anyone who wants to use the Panigale V4 Tricolore on the track will also have access to a racing tank cap in solid aluminum, brake caliper conveyors, an open clutch cover in carbon fiber, and a kit for removing the license plate holder, all supplied as standard. The experience of riding this collector’s bike will be even more special thanks to the Alcantara seat, the racing plexiglass, and the dedicated animation of the dashboard at key-on.

Finally, like all collectible Ducatis, each Tricolore is made unique by the engraved machined aluminum steering plate with the model’s name and unit number.

The Panigale V4 Tricolore is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a dedicated motorcycle cover, and is delivered in a special personalized box to match the livery. The model number is also shown on the aluminum plate of the ignition key. Finally, the uniqueness of the Tricolore is reinforced by the option, reserved for owners, to complete their look with a limited-edition helmet and jacket featuring a color scheme that echoes the motorcycle’s design. Clients who purchase the motorcycle in the United States will automatically receive the accompanying helmet and jacket.

Visit the dedicated page on the Ducati.com website to view more information surrounding this special bike. All the Panigale V4 Tricolore images are also available on Ducati Media House, while the video presenting the bike is available on the Ducati YouTube channel.

The Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore will arrive at dealerships in the United States in April 2025. Pricing for the limited-edition bike will be $58,000 in the United States.

MotoAmerica: More On 2025 MiniCup Series

FIM MiniCup USA/Ohvale USA Set For Five-Round Series In Southern California


Series At Apex Motorsports Park To Include Qualifying Round For MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final

The FIM MiniCup USA & Official “Road To MotoGP” program is proud to announce its partnership with Ohvale USA at Apex Motorsports Park in Perris, California, for the 2025 season. This collaboration ensures a premier racing experience for young riders at one of the most exciting venues in the country. Based directly in the heart of the beautiful Southern California scenery.

Travelers flying in can take advantage of our “Arrive and Race” rental packages, with race-ready bikes available in 110cc, 160cc, and 190cc models.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to the sport, this program makes it easier, more affordable and more time-efficient than ever to participate in this thrilling world-class championship series. Not forgetting, the best of the best from both the 160cc & 190cc classes will get the opportunity to gauge their skills and go up against the World’s Best during the F.I.M. World MiniGP Final hosted in Valencia, Spain, during the MotoGP Premier Final (November 10-16).

The following classes will be held at each round:
Stock 50 (6-8 years old)
Stock 110 (8-12 years old)
GP 110 (8-12 years old) GP 160 (9-14 years old)
GP 190 (11-16 years old)
Street GP (12 years and up).

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

MotoGP: Aprilia Tech Director’s Goal Is To “Align The Planets”

Fabiano Sterlacchini spent nearly two decades helping develop the technology of the all-dominant Ducati Desmosedici Grand Prix racebikes. KTM poached him from Ducati in 2021, but negotiations to retain him fell apart in the middle of 2024. Having lost its technical director, Romano Albesiano, to Honda, Aprilia swooped in to sign the free agent. This means Aprilia will go into 2025 with a factory rider lineup of a pair of race-winning Ducati expats – World Champion Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi – and with a technical director who played a key role in developing the machines they rode to victories and the title.

MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin testing his new Aprilia RS-GP in Barcelona. Note the revised ducting riveted into place on the fairing lower. Photo by Michael Gougis.

After starting to settle in to his new digs, Sterlacchini met briefly with members of the motosports media corps after the first post-season test concluded in Barcelona. He was forthcoming about the task ahead and spoke about what he knew and had learned, as well as what he didn’t yet know. Jumping in and making accurate, insightful assessments into something as complicated as a factory MotoGP effort after a few hours – Sterlacchini said that was something beyond the capabilities of a mere human.

“Personally, I don’t think that is possible. You don’t need a person who is good, you need God to in a short time understand everything,” he said. “To be honest, in some aspects, it’s starting to become a bit more clear, less blurred, picture. But as I said, it is absolutely premature to draw any conclusions at the moment.”

One of the RS-GP machines used by Jorge Martin at the Barcelona test. Note the substantial duct directing air from the fairing’s trailing edge back into the center of the bike. Also note the custom seat and tank cushions for Martin. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Sterlacchini said it wasn’t enough to simply focus on the RS-GP, but on the way that the team goes about doing its business on race weekend as well. In the past two seasons, the Aprilia MotoGP racebike has shown that under the right circumstances it is as fast – or faster than – anything else on the track. But the RS-GP’s performance, and the performance of its riders, has been dramatically inconsistent, and the team has been plagued by mechanical failures as well. Miguel Oliveira, who is leaving the satellite Aprilia Trackhouse Racing team to join Pramac Yamaha, said in a recent public appearance that his RS-GP suffered a short circuit in the CPU during practice in Indonesia that cut all traction control systems on the bike, throwing him to the ground and leaving him with a broken wrist.

“You have to reach the perfection of all the systems, no? It doesn’t mean that you have to improve just the bike, but also in the way you are leading the rider to perform in the proper way during the weekend. Like you are aligning the planets,” Sterlacchini said. “So you have to understand what the plan is for the engine brake, then the traction control, then the way you are using the bike in some corners, making the pick-up – this is a sort of process. Clearly the performance of the Aprilia is quite good. Obviously, it is not enough. All of us are here for just one position (to win), no? So we keep working to try to arrive to the spot.”

Getting to know everyone in the racing department, know what they do, and understand how they work together is not the accomplishment of a day or a week, he said.

“I think a reasonable time would be four to eight months. This doesn’t mean we didn’t start to work until that moment. But until the meantime, to have an overall quite clear picture, that is the window of time,” Sterlacchini said.

“The difficulty of our job in general, as a company, not just my job, because I am a piece of the puzzle, is not that you have a new rider, he’s a rookie, not a rookie, it’s the fact that you are challenging 18 other people in the world. It’s a big challenge. It’s the ultimate level, no? You have to optimize (everything).

Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo by Michael Gougis.

“I think the fact that we have Jorge (Martin) that is coming from the world-title bike – and he’s a world-title rider – is a big opportunity, no? Because we have a reference. We can understand clearly more where we have to concentrate the most. He’s a mixture between a Champion and a leader. It’s astonishing the way he is approaching the job. It’s really good.”

Finally, Sterlacchini reminded reporters that it’s not just about how the bike is built, but how it is set up. The best bike in the world will lose, every time, if the suspension settings are off, the team has chosen the wrong tires, etc. MotoGP machines are incredibly complicated interactions of hydraulic, electronic, mechanical and aerodynamic systems, and setting all of them up to find the optimal interaction between them is a challenge in its own right.

“At the end, there are pro and cons between the (Aprilia RS-GP and the Ducati) project Martin rode this season. The bike has been developed, for sure, but the settings have been developed over several years. So I think it is premature to say an aspect is good in Ducati rather than Aprilia. And to be honest, I think we never have to look in the past, but we have to analyze in the present what we need in the future. So that is the mission.”

 

Wedding: Racer Jake Holden and Marada O’Conner (Updated)

Newlyweds Jake and Marada Holden. Shannon Wolf Photography.

Former Superbike racer Jake Holden married Marada O’Conner December 3rd, in Hawaii.

During his career, Holden rode for Michael Jordan’s AMA Pro team.

 

Jake Holden racing in AMA Pro in 2007, racing a Suzuki GSX-R1000 for Jordan Motorsports. Photo by Larry Lawrence.

MotoGP: Nearly $1.7 Million Raised For Valencia Relief Efforts

MotoGP’s total contribution to our Racing for Valencia recovery fund can now be confirmed as €1.6 million ($1,688,253.46). The figure comes from fundraising initiatives both at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona and online, donations made to our campaign, and a final figure of €1 million ($1,055,158.41) added to the total by MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports.

Thanks to the commitment of MotoGP fans, the on-site and online auctions of memorabilia and experiences raised more than €300,000 ($316,547.52) – all made possible by the generosity of the riders, teams and partners who donated items to each auction.

The teams, via their association IRTA, also contributed a sizeable €100,000 ($105,515.84) standalone donation to our Caixabank fund, and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce donated €50,000 ($52,757.92) – getting us even closer to our impressive total.

Across ticket sales, t shirts, and more, every fan onsite at the sold-out Solidarity GP or watching around the world each made their own contribution, enabling MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports to do the same.

Dorna was the promoter of the Solidarity GP as a commitment to delivering a fitting conclusion to a history-making season – for the riders, teams, personnel, our partners and the millions of fans looking forward to the event.

The fans who were able to join us on-site more than matched that commitment as we sold out maximum capacity, and the collective effort from the paddock, the circuit and all our partners made it a weekend to remember. The event was also named Best GP of 2024, rewarding the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for their hard work behind the scenes.

In lieu of simply donating the profit generated by ticket sales as part of the investment made in staging the event, Dorna has decided to increase its contribution in recognition of this collective effort and donate a full €1 million ($1,055,158.41) to the funds raised for Valencia.

The money from all our MotoGP initiatives will now go towards the recovery of the towns closest to the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Cheste and Chiva. They are the communities who would usually receive the positive economic impact of hosting the season finale, and those who host us year on year. Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta visited the two towns as the final donation is announced.

MotoGP makes a positive impact wherever we race, whenever we race, and places a high value on our role in communities in which we’re present.

To all those who joined us #RacingforValencia during the Solidarity GP, from the riders and teams putting on the show to the fans watching around the world or in the stands, the circuit staff behind the scenes, our paddock and partner personnel, and everyone in between: thank you for being part of it.

MTRSPT1 Now Available 24/7 On MotoAmerica’s YouTube Channel

The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Barber Motorsports Park in 2024. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Barber Motorsports Park in 2024. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that it is partnering with MTRSPT1, the 24/7 live-streaming network that delivers motorsports entertainment, including the MotoAmerica Championship, to bring its 24-hour live stream to MotoAmerica’s YouTube channel during the off-season.

MTRSPT1’s live stream includes motorsports entertainment from the world of racing on both two and four wheels, including i-Racing, as well as modalities on the water and in the air. MTRSPT1 also airs garage shows and build shows as regular features on its impressive list of motorsports programming.

The MTRSPT1 network reaches 9.2 million households in U.S. over-the-air broadcast and 300 million TVs and boxes in 100-plus countries via FAST (Free Add Supported Television).

“Adding MTRSPT1 to our YouTube channel is the perfect complement to our MotoAmerica racing content, ‘Pressure to Rise,’ and other programming we have on the channel,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “MTRSPT1 offers around-the-clock access to all forms of racing, making it a valuable addition for racing enthusiasts.”

MTRSPT1 is a true destination for motorsports enthusiasts, reaching over 9.2 million households in U.S. over-the-air broadcast and 300 million TVs, devices and apps in more than 200 countries via FAST (Free Add Supported TV). The network broadcasts 300-plus live races annually and nearly 3000 hours of motorsports content featuring over 60 different racing series. MTRSPT1 is accessible on platforms such as LG Channels, Hisense/VIDAA Channels, TCL Live+, Telus, and others, as well as Over-The-Air local broadcast station distribution in 63 U.S. markets.

“We’re excited to partner with MotoAmerica and bring their passionate fanbase even more racing action during the off-season,” said John Duff, COO of MTRSPT1. “This collaboration allows us to expand the reach of MTRSPT1’s diverse motorsports coverage and introduce new audiences to the excitement of live racing from around the globe. We believe this is a winning combination that will benefit both organizations and motorsports enthusiasts alike.”

EWC: Yoshimura SERT Celebrates 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship

From left, Damien Saulnier, Yohei Kato, Gregg Black, Étienne Masson and Dan Linfoot. Photo courtesy EWC.

Yoshimura SERT Motul’s capture of the 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship was celebrated among the stars of international motorcycle sport on the Spanish island of Mallorca.

Riders Gregg Black, Dan Linfoot and Étienne Masson were joined at the FIM Awards, which took place at the Palma Convention Centre overlooking the Balearic island’s capital city, by Yoshimura SERT Motul Team Director Yohei Kato and Team Manager Damien Saulnier to accept their coveted gold medals from Ignacio Verneda, FIM Deputy President.

Taking place at the end of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports’ 10th season as promoter of the EWC and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM)’s 120th anniversary year, the 2024 FIM Awards was attended by 1000 guests. They included FIM MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin, FIM Superbike world champion Toprak Razgatlioglu, Ana Carrasco, the winner of the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship, and Bartosz Zmarzlik, world champion in FIM Speedway Grand Prix, which is also promoted by Warner Bros. Discovery Sports under a long-term alliance with the FIM.

Yoshimura SERT Motul’s 13th EWC title triumph in its various incarnations came at the end of another action-packed EWC season. The Suzuki-powered squad, which also featured Albert Arenas and Cocoro Atsumi in its line-up, won twice during the season with Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team and Team HRC with Japan Post claiming a victory apiece. Notably, Linfoot, a new Yoshimura SERT Motul recruit for 2024, finished on the podium in all four EWC races, a feat recognised by a selection of international media who voted him the Hero of the Year in the first EWC Expert Views.

Sunset at the 2024 Bol d’ Or at Circuit Paul Ricard. Photo courtesy EWC.

The other EWC award winners of 2024 were National Motos Honda FMA, which won the FIM Endurance World Cup for Teams and the Dunlop Superstock Trophy, Yamaha, which topped the final standings in the FIM Endurance World Championship for Manufacturers and Honda, the winner of the FIM Endurance World Cup for Manufacturers. KM99, meanwhile, completed the 2024 EWC season as the leading independent team.

Yohei Kato, Yoshimura SERT Motul Team Director, said: “We owe this result to the people who work behind the scenes at Yoshimura; the designers and engineers. They built a very good bike, so I’d like to thank all those people behind us. And, of course, I’d like to thank the whole Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We fight for the title every season, and I’m very proud of the team and this result.”

The Yoshimura SERT MOTUL team took two victories in four races in 2024 on their Suzuki GSX-R1000R. Photo courtesy EWC.

Dan Linfoot, Yoshimura SERT Motul rider, said: “It was a fantastic season, great memories and great feelings. I’m super-proud of Yoshimura SERT Motul for delivering the results and the championship. To be able to call myself a world champion is special, I’m super-pleased.”

FIM Endurance World Championship 2025 calendar

Round 1: 24 Heures Motos, Le Mans, France: 17-20 April

Round 2: 8 Hours of Spa Motos, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium: 6-7 June

Round 3: 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, Suzuka Circuit, Japan: 1-3 August

Round 4: Bol d’Or, Circuit Paul Ricard, France: 18-21 September

MotoAmerica: Karns Performance Fielding Three-Rider Suzuki GSX-8R Team

Levi Badie will run the entire MotoAmerica Twins Cup schedule with Karns Performance.
This year will be a new step and challenge for Karns Performance Racing. We will be participating in the full season of Twins Cup on the Suzuki GSX8R fielding 3 riders. Joining us for this large step in development will be TST Industries. This pairing will allow them to grow their already expansive product offering. We could not be more excited about this partnership that will help take us to the next level.
 
We will also be using Adrenaline Engineering’s data services to help sort this new platform with Andreani USA handling our Nitron suspension. Spiegler USA brake lines and NG Rotors will get the bikes stopped. Blud Racing Lubricants will keep the engines running in top form. Woodcraft Technologies are taking care of rider and crew controls. We will be running M4 exhausts and Meck’s Auto Body will make our bikes the best looking on and off the racetrack.
Elisa Gendron Belen is returning for her third season with Karns Performance. Photo courtesy Karns Performance.
 
Elisa Gendron Belen – Elisa is returning to our team for the 3rd season. She is hoping to build on what she learned in JR Cup, having her best season yet, and bring it to Twins. She is a fan favorite, and breath of fresh air in the paddock bringing excitement to the team.
 
Levi Badie will run the entire MotoAmerica Twins Cup schedule with Karns Performance.
Levi Badie #71 – Levi ran a limited JR cup schedule last season but still competed for wins at just about every round. Including landing on the podium several times with winning the Brainerd round. The New Suzuki 8R suits Levi’s style and stature much better than the JR Cup bike. We expect Levi will shine this season.
 
Isaac Woodworth is moving up from Junior Cup into MotoAmerica Twins Cup with Karns Performance. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/Courtesy Karns Performance.
 
Isaac Woodworth #27 – Coming from a promising year in JR Cup where Isaac was always in the battle and fighting for podiums at almost every round. We think the platform and help that Isaac will have this year will allow him to get to the next level. Fighting for wins.

CMRA Honors 2022-2023-2024 Champions In Its 50th Year

CMRA 2024 Overall Expert #1 JC Camacho (91) in action at Eagles Canyon Raceway. Photo by David Gillen/ dgillenphoto.com, courtesy CMRA.


CMRA Honors its 2022-2023-2024 Champions

The Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) wrapped up its 50th Anniversary year holding its Awards Banquet this past Saturday, December 7, 2024, at The Palladium in Waco, TX. With over 140 people in attendance, the event was live streamed on the CMRA’s YouTube channel, and was full of fun and surprises. Awards and congratulations were presented to the 2022 – 2024 Sprint and Endurance champions in attendance, as well as other special annual awards. The organization did not have a banquet the two previous years.

All CMRA staff and corner workers were recognized, with additional recognition given to all the racers that have participated in the series the past few years.

Special thank were given to the Series, Special Event, and Banquet Raffle Item sponsors:
2024 Race Series: BISON, Hart Photography, RaceWorX, RES, RideSmart Motorcycle School.

2024 Special Events: Artisan’s Editions, BTech Turbines, Complete Vascular Care, Leather & Lace Racing Leather Repair, The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, PLLC.

2024 Banquet Raffle Items: CMRA Office, Racer’s Edge Performance/Dunlop, Eagles Canyon Raceway, Kasey Lewis, Motorsport Ranch Cresson, Pirelli (Chris Hamlett), Racer’s Edge Performance/Dunlop, Southern Adrenaline.

From left, CMRA 2024 Champions Alan Phillips, JC Camacho, and Michael Klesel at the CMRA Awards Banquet held in Waco, Texas. Photo by Sasha Lovan/courtesy CMRA.

The 2024 Overall Expert #1 was JC Camacho, 2023 Overall Expert went to Michael Klesel, with JC Camacho earning 2022 Overall Expert.

The 2024 Rookie Expert Award went to Zack Foster for the most overall points earned as a first year expert. 2023 Rookie Expert was Parker Williams, with 2022 Rookie Expert being Ross Brady.

The 2024 Top Novice award went to Kellan Funkhouser, 2023 Top Novice was Zack Foster, and Parker Williams earned 2022 Top Novice.

The 2024 Overall Ultra LIghtweight Endurance #1 Plate went to the Band of MIsfits team of: JC Camacho, Hayden Bicknese, Michael Klesel, Derek Thomas, and David Roth Jr. The Ram Air 400 team of: Zack Foster, Jeremy Keller, Shane Smith, Chad Steinhoff earned the 2023 Overall Ultra Lightweight Endurance. 2022’s Overall Ultra Lightweight Endurance was the VIllage Idiots team of: Cory Burleson, Isaiah Burleson, Josiah Burleson, Chris Headley, John Orchard.

2024 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H Alan Phillips, #1M Michael Klesel, #1L Jeff Bean, #1U Zack Foster, #5 JC Camacho, #6 Aiden Sneed, #7 Christopher Simmons, #8 Ryan Max Johnson, #9 Kyle Coles, #10 Danny Dominguez.

2023 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H Alan Phillips, #1M Michael Klesel, #1L Ryan Max Johnson, #1U Aiden Sneed, #3 Kyle Coles, #5 Dezrae Caldwell, #7 Danny Dominguez , #8 AJ Pyne, #9 Parker Williams, #10 JC Camacho .

2022 Top Ten Overall CMRA Champions: #1H JC Camacho, #1M Kyle Coles, #1L Walter Walker III, #1U Dezrae Caldwell, # 4 Alan Phillips, #5 Kevin Nolde, #7 Andrew Forsythe, #8 Ross Brady, #9 John Orchard, #10 Philip Lawlis.

The individual Expert, Novice, and Endurance class champions are listed below. Full results and series standings can be found here: Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association – Results. The Awards Banquet can be viewed on the CMRa YoutTube channel here: CMRA – YouTube

The CMRA would like to again thank the competitors, race staff, corner workers, sponsors, friends, family and supporters for making 2024 an exciting season. Fierce competition brought the Texas based club to a whole new level and ended the 50th Anniversary year strong!

The next CMRA season will begin on February 14-16, 2025, at MSR Houston, in Angleton Texas. Details for the weekend will be announced when finalized.

Registration Opens For 2025 FIM R3 Blu Cru World Cup

Mallorca's Marc Vich has been crowned the 2024 FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup Champion. Photo courtesy Yamaha Racing.
Mallorca's Marc Vich has been crowned the 2024 FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup Champion. Photo courtesy Yamaha Racing.

Registration for the 2025 FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup remains open until midnight on February 28th 2025, but with only 30 grid slots available and interest in the series continuing to grow, now’s the time to book your place on the grid. 

Register now: https://www.yamaha-racing.com/blu-cru/r3-fim-world-cup/register/

The series, which has held FIM World Cup status since last year, is open to riders aged 14 and over and plays an integral role in the FIM Superbike World Championship and the SBK Roadway program, while the award-winning Yamaha bLU cRU program forms a part of the Yamaha Racing pyramid foundation.

Aldi Satya Mahendra is the perfect example of the effectiveness of this progression; the Indonesian star made his R3 bLU cRU debut in 2023, finishing second in the championship before moving up to the FIM Supersport300 World Championship where this year he was crowned champion after an impressive season. The 18-year-old will now move up to the Supersport World Championship for 2025 with the brand new R9. 

In 2025 the FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup will once again race at six rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship.

 

2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup Calendar

* Pre-Season Test: Misano 18 March

* Round 1 – Portimao, Portugal: 28-30 March

* bLU cRU Training Camp: TBC

* Round 2 – Misano, Italy: 13-15 June

* Round 3 – Donington Park, United Kingdom: 11-13 July

* Round 4 – Balatonring, Hungary: 25-27 July

* Round 5 – Motorland Aragon, Spain: 26-28 September

* Round 6 – Estoril, Portugal: 10-12 October

 

In 2024 the R3 bLU cRU World Cup races were broadcast live on YouTube for the first time with each race attracting thousands of viewers worldwide, showcasing the series’ global appeal. 

This season was thrilling throughout with plenty of photo finishes, impressive overtakes and big groups battling until the chequered flag. The championship went down to the wire in the last race of the year between Spanish stars Gonzalo Sanchez and Marc Vich, with the latter taking the crown in style in front of huge crowds of superbike fans at Motorland Aragon. The Mallorcan will now move into the FIM Supersport300 World Championship in 2025.

Entry costs for the 2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup are aimed at keeping it as accessible as possible to young riders. Therefore, the entire riding package, including a Yamaha R3, leathers, gloves, boots, helmet, tyres, fuel, and season entry fees, are all provided for €32,500 (Euros).

At each round, there is a dedicated FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup Village in the heart of the WorldSBK paddock, where the young riders receive coaching, technical support, and mentoring from the bLU cRU coaches and ambassadors to help develop their fledgling racing careers.

The ultimate prize on offer is a ride in the class that will replace the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship in 2026 with Yamaha Motor Europe support. 

The rider who finishes second in the standings will receive a 50% discount on their 2026 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup registration, with the third-place finisher earning a 25% discount. 

Click the button below to register to compete in the 2025 FIM R3 bLU cRU World Cup now before registration closes at midnight on 28 February 2025.

 

Ducati Announces Limited Edition Panigale V4 Tricolore

The limited edition Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore. Photo courtesy Ducati.

A tribute to all things “Made in Italy” and Ducati history: the Panigale V4 Tricolore. A collector’s bike produced in a limited capacity of 1,000 numbered units that will make the hearts of all enthusiasts beat faster, reinterpreting the livery of the 1984 750 F1, a bike that began exactly forty years ago. A Tricolore livery that in the following years was dedicated to the most prestigious versions of the various generations of Ducati Superbikes, ever since the first 851 Desmoquattro in 1988.

Innovation, tradition, and passion come together in one extraordinary tale. The Panigale V4 Tricolore is a renewed promise: that of getting excited again, of experiencing the privilege of a history that continues to define the future of sports motorcycles. A bond that spans time, celebrating Ducati’s engineering artistry and the indomitable Italian spirit that animates each of its creations.

For Ducati, the Panigale V4 Tricolore is the latest innovation of 2024. It has been an incredible year, in which the Borgo Panigale-based company has won the MotoGP Riders’ and Manufacturers’ titles for the third time in a row, coming close to absolute domination with nineteen victories out of twenty Grand Prix. Added to this are the World Manufacturers’ title in Superbike, the Riders’ title in Supersport, and the Italian title on debut with the 450 MX in Italian Motocross. There were also many national victories, including the Italian Superbike and the U.S. Superbike, which marked Ducati’s return to victory in the U.S. after 30 years. Last but not least, the historic successes in the Japanese Superbike Championship of the Panigale V4 managed by the Kagayama team.

Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock attended this world premiere alongside Ducati Motor Holding Vice President Global Sales Francesco Milicia and Director Strategy & Style Center Andrea Ferraresi, who said, “In Miami and at Art Basel in particular, we feel at home. Ducati is the only motorcycle brand able to combine sophisticated technology and sensual beauty, but also to break out of the typical schemes of sport liveries to create works of art, using the motorcycle as a canvas.”

A close-up shot of the Tricolore’s fairing. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The global premiere of the exclusive motorcycle was unveiled to the public with an off-site event, with the participation of partner Eataly, during Art Basel week in Miami Beach, one of the most prestigious art fairs in the world. Surrounded by special clients and Ducatisti at the event, guests came together to celebrate their passion and loyalty for the brand and 40 years of Tricolore.

“The partnership with Ducati is based on sharing the same values, DNA and goals. We both aim to bring Italian excellence to the world, inspiring people with the authentic Italian art of living,” said Tommaso Brusò, CEO of Eataly North America. “This event, in such an iconic location during Art Basel week, is the perfect opportunity to reinforce our message and to bring our communities together.“

The Panigale V4 Tricolore, proudly designed by Drudi Performance and the Centro Stile Ducati, is based on the new Panigale V4. Its white, red, and green livery, designed asymmetrically for the first time on the bike, celebrates the colors of the Italian flag by combining them with the black and white of the checkered flag, the symbol of victory, shown on the lower part of the fairing. The number plates with the number one on the front and the sides of the fairing resemble those of the sportiest and most sophisticated Ducatis, such as the Panigale V4 R or the Multistrada Pikes Peak.

A livery that underlines the aerodynamic surfaces of the bike, with more taut lines that highlight the change in style that marked, with the Panigale V4 2025, the transition from the sixth to the seventh generation of Ducati Superbikes. The base of the Panigale V4 Tricolore is the new V4 presented last July at World Ducati Week and the leader of an important evolutionary leap thanks to an integrated approach to aerodynamics and design, a completely revised chassis, and innovative electronic solutions such as the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) and the Race eCBS.

For the first time in Ducati history, a Tricolore is enriched with technical equipment that improves its performance on the track, making this bike even more unique. The Panigale V4 Tricolore is equipped with five-spoke carbon fiber rims that reduce the weight by two pounds compared to the forged ones of the Panigale V4 S, lowering the moment of inertia by 12% at the front and 19% at the rear.

Tail and seat of a Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The new Panigale V4 Tricolore is the first production bike in the world to be equipped with the Front Brake Pro front braking system, consisting of two finned Brembo T-Drive discs measuring 338.5 mm in diameter and 6.2 mm thick, which increase braking power and performance consistency. These discs, tested by Ducati Factory Riders in the 2024 Race of Champions, are derived from the racing discs mounted in the Superbike World Championship on the most demanding circuits and are paired with Hypure™ calipers. The calipers feature an anthracite anodizing treatment and an oversized Brembo logo. Finally, the front brake pump is an MCS 19.21 with remote brake lever position adjustment, as in MotoGP and Superbike.

A dry clutch, adjustable footpegs in solid aluminum, and a GPS module complete the special equipment of the Tricolore. Anyone who wants to use the Panigale V4 Tricolore on the track will also have access to a racing tank cap in solid aluminum, brake caliper conveyors, an open clutch cover in carbon fiber, and a kit for removing the license plate holder, all supplied as standard. The experience of riding this collector’s bike will be even more special thanks to the Alcantara seat, the racing plexiglass, and the dedicated animation of the dashboard at key-on.

Finally, like all collectible Ducatis, each Tricolore is made unique by the engraved machined aluminum steering plate with the model’s name and unit number.

The Panigale V4 Tricolore is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a dedicated motorcycle cover, and is delivered in a special personalized box to match the livery. The model number is also shown on the aluminum plate of the ignition key. Finally, the uniqueness of the Tricolore is reinforced by the option, reserved for owners, to complete their look with a limited-edition helmet and jacket featuring a color scheme that echoes the motorcycle’s design. Clients who purchase the motorcycle in the United States will automatically receive the accompanying helmet and jacket.

Visit the dedicated page on the Ducati.com website to view more information surrounding this special bike. All the Panigale V4 Tricolore images are also available on Ducati Media House, while the video presenting the bike is available on the Ducati YouTube channel.

The Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore will arrive at dealerships in the United States in April 2025. Pricing for the limited-edition bike will be $58,000 in the United States.

MotoAmerica: More On 2025 MiniCup Series

The 2025 MiniCup schedule for Southern Callifornia.

FIM MiniCup USA/Ohvale USA Set For Five-Round Series In Southern California


Series At Apex Motorsports Park To Include Qualifying Round For MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final

The FIM MiniCup USA & Official “Road To MotoGP” program is proud to announce its partnership with Ohvale USA at Apex Motorsports Park in Perris, California, for the 2025 season. This collaboration ensures a premier racing experience for young riders at one of the most exciting venues in the country. Based directly in the heart of the beautiful Southern California scenery.

Travelers flying in can take advantage of our “Arrive and Race” rental packages, with race-ready bikes available in 110cc, 160cc, and 190cc models.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to the sport, this program makes it easier, more affordable and more time-efficient than ever to participate in this thrilling world-class championship series. Not forgetting, the best of the best from both the 160cc & 190cc classes will get the opportunity to gauge their skills and go up against the World’s Best during the F.I.M. World MiniGP Final hosted in Valencia, Spain, during the MotoGP Premier Final (November 10-16).

The following classes will be held at each round:
Stock 50 (6-8 years old)
Stock 110 (8-12 years old)
GP 110 (8-12 years old) GP 160 (9-14 years old)
GP 190 (11-16 years old)
Street GP (12 years and up).

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

MotoGP: Aprilia Tech Director’s Goal Is To “Align The Planets”

Fabiano Sterlacchini meets the media at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya after the first post-season test as the new Technical Director of Aprilia Racing. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Fabiano Sterlacchini spent nearly two decades helping develop the technology of the all-dominant Ducati Desmosedici Grand Prix racebikes. KTM poached him from Ducati in 2021, but negotiations to retain him fell apart in the middle of 2024. Having lost its technical director, Romano Albesiano, to Honda, Aprilia swooped in to sign the free agent. This means Aprilia will go into 2025 with a factory rider lineup of a pair of race-winning Ducati expats – World Champion Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi – and with a technical director who played a key role in developing the machines they rode to victories and the title.

MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin testing his new Aprilia RS-GP in Barcelona. Note the revised ducting riveted into place on the fairing lower. Photo by Michael Gougis.

After starting to settle in to his new digs, Sterlacchini met briefly with members of the motosports media corps after the first post-season test concluded in Barcelona. He was forthcoming about the task ahead and spoke about what he knew and had learned, as well as what he didn’t yet know. Jumping in and making accurate, insightful assessments into something as complicated as a factory MotoGP effort after a few hours – Sterlacchini said that was something beyond the capabilities of a mere human.

“Personally, I don’t think that is possible. You don’t need a person who is good, you need God to in a short time understand everything,” he said. “To be honest, in some aspects, it’s starting to become a bit more clear, less blurred, picture. But as I said, it is absolutely premature to draw any conclusions at the moment.”

One of the RS-GP machines used by Jorge Martin at the Barcelona test. Note the substantial duct directing air from the fairing’s trailing edge back into the center of the bike. Also note the custom seat and tank cushions for Martin. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Sterlacchini said it wasn’t enough to simply focus on the RS-GP, but on the way that the team goes about doing its business on race weekend as well. In the past two seasons, the Aprilia MotoGP racebike has shown that under the right circumstances it is as fast – or faster than – anything else on the track. But the RS-GP’s performance, and the performance of its riders, has been dramatically inconsistent, and the team has been plagued by mechanical failures as well. Miguel Oliveira, who is leaving the satellite Aprilia Trackhouse Racing team to join Pramac Yamaha, said in a recent public appearance that his RS-GP suffered a short circuit in the CPU during practice in Indonesia that cut all traction control systems on the bike, throwing him to the ground and leaving him with a broken wrist.

“You have to reach the perfection of all the systems, no? It doesn’t mean that you have to improve just the bike, but also in the way you are leading the rider to perform in the proper way during the weekend. Like you are aligning the planets,” Sterlacchini said. “So you have to understand what the plan is for the engine brake, then the traction control, then the way you are using the bike in some corners, making the pick-up – this is a sort of process. Clearly the performance of the Aprilia is quite good. Obviously, it is not enough. All of us are here for just one position (to win), no? So we keep working to try to arrive to the spot.”

Getting to know everyone in the racing department, know what they do, and understand how they work together is not the accomplishment of a day or a week, he said.

“I think a reasonable time would be four to eight months. This doesn’t mean we didn’t start to work until that moment. But until the meantime, to have an overall quite clear picture, that is the window of time,” Sterlacchini said.

“The difficulty of our job in general, as a company, not just my job, because I am a piece of the puzzle, is not that you have a new rider, he’s a rookie, not a rookie, it’s the fact that you are challenging 18 other people in the world. It’s a big challenge. It’s the ultimate level, no? You have to optimize (everything).

Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo by Michael Gougis.

“I think the fact that we have Jorge (Martin) that is coming from the world-title bike – and he’s a world-title rider – is a big opportunity, no? Because we have a reference. We can understand clearly more where we have to concentrate the most. He’s a mixture between a Champion and a leader. It’s astonishing the way he is approaching the job. It’s really good.”

Finally, Sterlacchini reminded reporters that it’s not just about how the bike is built, but how it is set up. The best bike in the world will lose, every time, if the suspension settings are off, the team has chosen the wrong tires, etc. MotoGP machines are incredibly complicated interactions of hydraulic, electronic, mechanical and aerodynamic systems, and setting all of them up to find the optimal interaction between them is a challenge in its own right.

“At the end, there are pro and cons between the (Aprilia RS-GP and the Ducati) project Martin rode this season. The bike has been developed, for sure, but the settings have been developed over several years. So I think it is premature to say an aspect is good in Ducati rather than Aprilia. And to be honest, I think we never have to look in the past, but we have to analyze in the present what we need in the future. So that is the mission.”

 

Wedding: Racer Jake Holden and Marada O’Conner (Updated)

Jake Holden (59) on a Jordan Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R1000 in 2007. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
Newlyweds Jake and Marada Holden. Shannon Wolf Photography.

Former Superbike racer Jake Holden married Marada O’Conner December 3rd, in Hawaii.

During his career, Holden rode for Michael Jordan’s AMA Pro team.

 

Jake Holden racing in AMA Pro in 2007, racing a Suzuki GSX-R1000 for Jordan Motorsports. Photo by Larry Lawrence.

MotoGP: Nearly $1.7 Million Raised For Valencia Relief Efforts

Enea Bastianini (23), Marc Marquez (93), Jorge Martin (89) and Francesco Bagnaia (1) head into Turn One of the Sprint race in Barcelona. Photos by Michael Gougis.

MotoGP’s total contribution to our Racing for Valencia recovery fund can now be confirmed as €1.6 million ($1,688,253.46). The figure comes from fundraising initiatives both at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona and online, donations made to our campaign, and a final figure of €1 million ($1,055,158.41) added to the total by MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports.

Thanks to the commitment of MotoGP fans, the on-site and online auctions of memorabilia and experiences raised more than €300,000 ($316,547.52) – all made possible by the generosity of the riders, teams and partners who donated items to each auction.

The teams, via their association IRTA, also contributed a sizeable €100,000 ($105,515.84) standalone donation to our Caixabank fund, and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce donated €50,000 ($52,757.92) – getting us even closer to our impressive total.

Across ticket sales, t shirts, and more, every fan onsite at the sold-out Solidarity GP or watching around the world each made their own contribution, enabling MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports to do the same.

Dorna was the promoter of the Solidarity GP as a commitment to delivering a fitting conclusion to a history-making season – for the riders, teams, personnel, our partners and the millions of fans looking forward to the event.

The fans who were able to join us on-site more than matched that commitment as we sold out maximum capacity, and the collective effort from the paddock, the circuit and all our partners made it a weekend to remember. The event was also named Best GP of 2024, rewarding the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for their hard work behind the scenes.

In lieu of simply donating the profit generated by ticket sales as part of the investment made in staging the event, Dorna has decided to increase its contribution in recognition of this collective effort and donate a full €1 million ($1,055,158.41) to the funds raised for Valencia.

The money from all our MotoGP initiatives will now go towards the recovery of the towns closest to the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Cheste and Chiva. They are the communities who would usually receive the positive economic impact of hosting the season finale, and those who host us year on year. Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta visited the two towns as the final donation is announced.

MotoGP makes a positive impact wherever we race, whenever we race, and places a high value on our role in communities in which we’re present.

To all those who joined us #RacingforValencia during the Solidarity GP, from the riders and teams putting on the show to the fans watching around the world or in the stands, the circuit staff behind the scenes, our paddock and partner personnel, and everyone in between: thank you for being part of it.

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