MotoAmerica: How To Watch the MotoAmerica Superbikes at Alabama
It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action
Everything you need to know to watch all the racing from Barber Motorsports Park!
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
WorldSBK: Baz Continuing With Bonovo Action BMW Team In 2023
Loris Baz to race for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team as a BMW Motorrad WorldSBK factory rider also in 2023.
Loris Baz to contest his second season on the BMW M 1000 RR in 2023.
The Frenchman will start for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team, as he does this season.
Marc Bongers: “With his experience, ability and personality, Loris adds an awful lot to the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team and our whole WorldSBK project”.
Munich. Loris Baz (FRA) will remain part of the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family in 2023, and will start as a BMW Motorrad factory rider in the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) again. Next year will be his second season with the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team. The collaboration has been extended accordingly. Baz’s new team-mate will be American Garrett Gerloff.
The 29-year-old Frenchman and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team have worked well together from the outset this season, their first together, and have enjoyed success. They have already achieved their goal of finishing in the top ten on multiple occasions. Baz was also in contention for a podium at his home round at Magny-Cours (FRA).
“Loris is an important part of our family of BMW factory riders, and we are thrilled that he will start for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again in 2023,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “You could tell from the word go that the chemistry was good between him, the team and his fellow factory riders. With his experience, ability and personality, Loris adds an awful lot to the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team and our whole WorldSBK project. It is excellent news that this impressive collaboration will continue next season. We are confident that we will continue to move forward together.”
Jürgen Röder, owner of the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team, said: “I am delighted that Loris is staying with us. We are very happy about that, and I believe that Loris Baz and his team-mate Garrett Gerloff will form an incredibly strong duo next year, when we can hopefully push hard with the BMW. From a riding potential, we have a great troop, and the team in the background will also remain the same for next year. As such, we will have a well-practiced team in 2023, which has done an outstanding job this year. Furthermore, we will have Loris, Garrett and Eugene Laverty, in the role of riding coach, by my side. Eugene gets on superbly with both riders, so I think the collaboration is going to be great in that regard too. That encourages me to be very positive looking ahead.”
“I am really happy that I will ride for BMW and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again next year,” said Baz. “I never doubted that I would. When I joined the project, the intention was to be involved in the long term and to improve every year. I feel really good in the team, and BMW is working harder than anyone else to achieve the goal we all have. I am also delighted to have such a nice guy as Garrett as my team-mate. I also have a very good relationship with Eugene, and it is really important for the team that we feel like a family. I am sure that will also be the case with Garrett. The goal is now to end 2022 strongly and go into the 2023 season with a good basis. Thank you to everyone at BMW, Jürgen Röder and Michael Galinski for the faith they have put in me.”
MotoAmerica: Herrin Not Racing In Superbike At Barber
Herrin’s Homecoming Set for Barber Motorsports Park
Josh Herrin rolling in as the champion and ready for some fun in the Heart of Dixie
Sunnyvale, Calif. — Josh Herrin’s Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Ducati Panigale V2 final hit-out for the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship is set for Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama this weekend.
Herrin clinched the championship with a measured and calm performance at New Jersey Motorsports Park two weeks ago, leaving the Northeast with an unassailable 93-point lead heading into this final Barber round with 50 points and two race wins still to play for.
After earlier stating intentions to race a second Ducati Panigale V4 SBK in the Superbike category as teammate to Danilo Petrucci at Barber, Herrin and the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC team has since decided against the plan and will instead concentrate on the Supersport class with the tantalizing prospect of finishing the championship with a massive 100-point buffer over second place.
Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC – #2) : “I’m excited to race Barber this weekend. It’s one of my favorite tracks on the schedule,” Herrin said. “I want to end the year with two more wins. It’s nice to go into the weekend with no stress on our shoulders, just race and do our best without the championship to worry about. I’m looking forward to it and can’t wait to see everyone out at Barber.”
The ninth and final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at Barber Motorsports Park will kick off with Free Practice 1 at 10:10 CDT on Friday, September 23. Race One is scheduled for Saturday, September 24 at 2:10 pm CDT with Race Two, the last race of 2022, to be held on September 25 at 2:10 pm CDT.
Intro: 2022 Yamaha MT-10, In The September Issue
Featured In the September 2022 issue of Roadracing World:
“Ride-by-wire throttles are here to stay and, depending on how you feel about being in control, that can be a good or bad thing.
“On a racebike with unfettered access to the engine control unit (ECU), ride-by-wire is a powerful tool to be able to do neat tricks like taking the slack out of the chain before allowing more power to the rear wheel, or only delivering as much power as the tire or wheelie will allow regardless of what the rider is requesting with the twist grip. Impressive stuff…”
—2022 Yamaha MT-10 Intro, by Sam Q. Fleming
Knee-dragging performance? All-day comfort? They’re not mutually exclusive when it comes to Yamaha’s new MT-10. Sam Q. Fleming ripped the bike around North Carolina—read his impressions in the latest issue of Roadracing World!
PREVIEW the September 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!
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Yamaha Pledges $500,000, Urges All To Get Outdoors On Sept. 24
Yamaha Pledges $500K, Urges All to Get Outdoors on September 24
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Celebrates National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 21, 2022 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors on Saturday, September 24, 2022, in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day). In recognition of these events, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) is renewing its annual pledge to commit $500,000 to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation and encouraging applications for grants before the next quarterly deadline on September 30.
National Public Lands Day invites volunteers nationwide to help restore and preserve public lands – from national parks to local urban green spaces – directly aligning with Yamaha OAI’s goal of protecting public lands for outdoor recreation. To date, the Yamaha OAI program has contributed over $5 million in funding and equipment across more than 425 projects in the last 14 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate everyone on safe, sustainable recreational use. Yamaha OAI has proven to be the industry’s most reliable partner and a significant resource for those who depend on access to public land for work and play.
Additionally, on September 24, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. NHF Day events are organized each year by Wonders of Wildlife to spread awareness of the conservation and economic benefits, as well as traditions and values of hunting and fishing. Yamaha OAI is a founding partner of Wonders of Wildlife’s Live It! program and a supporter of its efforts to expand NHF Day events across the country. These events play a significant role in expanding awareness of the issues facing public access and outdoor recreation, and the Live It! program supports local conservation groups wanting to host or enhance NHF Day events, but are limited in their resources.
Since access to public land is best protected by visitors’ responsible and sustainable practices, Yamaha OAI partners with Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC) on a variety of activities, including signage for land managers to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use of trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for the signs can simply complete a form at the following link: Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.
“Last year we made a commitment to grant half a million dollars to outdoor projects, and we’re proud to say we exceeded that goal,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “Our lives are rooted in the outdoors and Yamaha’s direct and significant financial support of Wonders of Wildlife, Recreate Responsibly, and so many other outdoor organizations help make recreation on public lands possible. In celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day and National Public Lands Day, we’re excited to renew our annual commitment to make a minimum of $500,000 available in 2022 to organizations who help create opportunities for outdoor recreation.”
The Yamaha OAI program encourages riding clubs, land stewardship associations, and public land managers to work together with Yamaha dealers to identify projects and apply for support. Yamaha OAI is a one-stop resource for outdoor organizations seeking support for their next project. Visit YamahaOAI.com for application details, or examples of some typical projects the program supports for inspiration.
The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of the 2022 funding cycle is September 30, 2022. Submission guidelines and an application for a Yamaha OAI grant are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA
About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Since 2008, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative has led the Powersports industry in supporting responsible access to our nation’s public lands for outdoor enthusiasts. With more than $5 million contributed to 425 projects across the country, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams, and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state, and local public land-use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations, and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding, and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible, and sustainable public use.
Updated guidelines, an application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email [email protected], or write to:
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
3065 Chastain Meadows Parkway, Bldg. 100
Marietta, GA 30066
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
American Flat Track: Fan Appreciation Night Coming To Volusia Half-Mile II
Mission Happy Hour to Highlight Fan Appreciation Night at Progressive AFT Season Finale
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (September 21, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track will celebrate its fanbase with a special “Fan Appreciation Night” at the Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II presented by Daytona Dodge on the season’s final day, Saturday, October 15, at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida.
The centerpiece of Fan Appreciation Night will be the Mission Happy Hour. Gates will open an hour early to allow the Mission Happy Hour to run from 2:30 p.m. local time up until on-track action kicks off for the evening at 4:00 p.m.
During that time, fans will enjoy a rider meet and greet along with a special Q&A hosted by Ralph Sheehen featuring the sport’s greatest athletes. There will also be a variety of special attractions, music, games, prizes, and giveaways.
Every attendee will receive a raffle ticket upon entrance and be welcome to take part in the taco eating contest alongside VIPs and past Progressive AFT championships. There will also be yard games to enjoy, including Jenga, Cornhole, and Connect 4.
Fans will also have the opportunity to win various prizes, including free Paddock Pass Upgrades, event shirts, food and beverage vouchers, and the chance to eat dinner alongside the riders and crew inside the Mission Hospitality Tent, among other offerings. Additionally, 20 attendees will get the exclusive experience of getting their photo taken at the podium.
Progressive AFT fans will also be able to take advantage of a special 50% off discount for the Paddock Pass Upgrade during the session’s opening half hour and then enjoy $5 off all merchandise for the final hour.
Additionally, the Halifax Humane Society will be in attendance, complete with ambassador dogs. Fans are encouraged to bring donations, the most pressing items being pet food (wet and dry, dog, cat, and kitten), treats, peanut butter, and laundry detergent.
Visit https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3697 to secure your tickets for the Mission Volusia Finale I & II presented by Daytona Dodge today.
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
How to Watch:
FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.
Moto Guzzi Launches Limited-Edition V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale
ABOARD THE CAVOUR AIRCRAFT CARRIER, MOTO GUZZI AND THE ITALIAN NAVY CELEBRATE THEIR CLOSE TIES, STARTING WITH THE EAGLE SYMBOL
The occasion saw the world preview of the V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale, a limited edition of 1913 numbered motorcycles
Packed with technology, the latest arrival in the Moto Guzzi family features a unique livery inspired by the F-35B fighters, making it the most striking model in the V100 range
Civitavecchia, 21 September 2022 – On the spectacular stage of the flight deck of the Cavour aircraft carrier, Moto Guzzi and the Italian Navy have celebrated the close ties that have united them for more than one hundred years.
The spread-winged eagle, the unmistakeable emblem of Moto Guzzi since it was established in 1921, dates back to the military service of the company’s founders, Carlo Guzzi and Giorgio Parodi, in the Italian Royal Navy’s Aeronautical Arm in World War One. It was during the war that the two friends, and pilot Giovanni Ravelli, decided to go into motorcycle manufacturing once the conflict ended. Ravelli was killed in an accident in 1919 and was unable to achieve his dream. Guzzi and Parodi chose the Eagle as their symbol in memory of their companion.
The event was an emotional occasion, which included the world preview of the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale, a special numbered limited-edition of the latest arrival in the Moto Guzzi family. A technology-rich motorcycle made even more striking in this exclusive version uniting two great names with indissoluble ties to the history of Italy.
The project was made possible thanks to Difesa Servizi S.p.A., an in-house company of the Italian Ministry of Defence responsible for optimising the Department’s assets over the last 10 years, which granted Moto Guzzi use of the “Aviazione Navale” mark for the production of the V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale.
Produced in a limited edition of 1913 numbered motorcycles, a tribute to the year in which the aviation arm of the Italian Navy was formed, the exclusive Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale is a unique model, starting with its special livery inspired by the Navy’s
F-35B fighter jets. The graphics are a faithful reproduction of those of the aircraft, with the insignia on both sides of the cowl, together with the typical “jet intake” stripes. The livery is enhanced by a low-visibility tricolour rosette on the sides of the fuel tank, the emblem of the Italian Naval Aviation, and the logo of the Boarded Aircraft Unit.
Standard features include a tyre pressure monitoring system and heated handlegrips, while the serial number is laser etched on the handlebar riser. Each one of the bikes comes with its own cover and a commemorative plaque.
Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello opens a completely new chapter in the company’s history; it eludes conventional categorisation, combining brilliant performance with the vocation for travel that lies at the heart of every Moto Guzzi two-wheeler.
This is a Moto Guzzi like never before, whose cutting-edge technology and innovative technical and aerodynamic solutions open the door to the future of the brand. The V100 Mandello is an innovative bike starting with the design which, as always, enhances the unique, inimitable twin-cylinder engine. Lines that eschew nostalgia, offering a modern take on the key elements of the Moto Guzzi stylistic idiom. A watershed in the brand’s history, the bike introduces many important technological innovations: the first two-wheeler with adaptive aerodynamics, the first Moto Guzzi model to feature a six-axis inertial platform, ABS cornering, semi-active suspensions and a quick shift, to name just the most important.
The V100 Mandello is also the first Moto Guzzi bike powered by the new compact-block engine with sophisticated technical characteristics. Tradition is maintained by the 90° V-twin architecture, which guarantees Moto Guzzi’s unique torque delivery and inimitable sound, but the project is completely new and offers impressively brilliant performance: power of 115 hp and torque of 105 Nm, with 82% already available at 3,500 rpm.
Naval Aviation
Italy’s Naval Aviation – Aviazione Navale – is the air component of the Italian Navy, created to operate at sea in close contact with its ships. Its origins date back to 1913, when the Aeronautical Service of the Royal Navy was officially formed.
The Navy’s aviation units are currently headed by the COMFORAER Air Forces Command, which is responsible for the organisation and coordination of the activities of all the Navy’s aircraft, including maintenance, management of logistics infrastructure and training for flight and ground personnel.
Its fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters are boarded on vessels equipped with hangars and a flight deck, on amphibious assault units and on aircraft carriers.
Since the 1980s, Italy’s Naval Aviation has been involved in all the main international operations.
The Cavour aircraft carrier
The Cavour (CVH 550) is a short take-off and vertical landing aircraft carrier, built by Fincantieri. It entered service for the Italian Navy in 2009.
With an LOA of 244 metres and 220 metres of runway, the Cavour is the Italian Navy’s flagship, and one of the most important technological investments of the country’s national defence system.
The Cavour is able to board and operate with all the aircraft used by the Italian Navy: helicopters (AB 212, EH 101, NH 90), AV-8B aircraft and latest-generation aircraft such as
F-35B fighters.
The flight deck extends from bow to stern with a runway parallel with the carrier’s longitudinal axis and a ski-jump, to ensure that aircraft can take off with the maximum payload. The hangar is designed to hold up to 12 helicopters or, alternatively, 8 aircraft. Handling operations between the hangar and the flight deck are managed by two 30-tonne elevators. The Cavour is manned by a fixed crew of 550 sailors and can accommodate up to 1,200.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A. is the in-house company of the Italian Ministry of Defence responsible for managing and optimising the Department’s assets. On the market, it provides services for a variety of national and international stakeholders.
Since it was established in 2011, the company has met the need for innovation and promoted the unique values of the Italian Armed Forces, operating in a multiplicity of sectors through meticulous economic management of the defence assets and services entrusted to it.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A. offers a range of goods and services such as economic management of real estate and assets, excluding disposal; environmental optimisation of military units for the production of energy from renewable sources; promotion and economic management of the operations and services provided to third parties by the Armed Forces in the meteorological, health, merchandise, geo-cartographic, aerial and satellite photography sectors; brand optimisation through the temporary paid concession of the logos, denominations and distinctive signs of the Armed Forces; promotion and invoicing of technical activities and services, including those relating to the Ministry’s industrial and production activities, for which a special mandate has been conferred on national and international bodies in the public and private sectors.
Established in March 2010, it began operations in the second half of 2011.
MotoGP: Dorna Working On Bringing Grand Prix To India
Dorna begins work towards future MotoGP™ Grand Prix in India
Wednesday, 21 September 2022
Dorna Sports is delighted to announce that work has begun on a possible future Indian Grand Prix, with the target of bringing the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship to the Indian subcontinent in the near future.
Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta has recently visited India to meet with authorities and potential event promoter Fairstreet Sports. The visit began at the spectacular Buddh International Circuit, right outside New Delhi, which would be the target venue to host the possible MotoGP™ event.
Thereafter, the delegation also travelled to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the region in which the circuit is located, to meet with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mr Yogi Adityanath and Industrial Development Minister Mr Nand Gopal “Nandi”.
Finally the visit ended with a presentation in New Delhi to local media and representatives of the motorcycling industry, which showcased the great expectation the country has for MotoGP™.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta: “India is a huge country and market, and an especially important one for the two-wheeled industry and MotoGP as a sport. The Championship has a huge fan base there and being able to hold a MotoGP event in India would be both an incredible spectacle for our fans at the same time as allowing us to continue to grow the sport in the region, which is hugely important for our all our partners and the manufacturers in particular given the hundreds of millions of two-wheeled vehicles on its roads. We would love to be able to see this project through and bring these incredible MotoGP bikes to race in front of the Indian fans.
“At MotoGP we are committed to our fans and aim to make the sport accessible to all, regardless of where they are, who they are or their economic status. Motorcycles are an incredible tool for transportation and in many areas of the world they drive society, providing economic mobility and powering families around the world. Racing in India would be a reflection of our commitment to open the doors to the sport as widely as we can, and would be and an important achievement for the Championship.”
Union Sports Minister Shri Anurag Thakur, during the meeting with Fairstreet Sports team, added: “It’s a historical day for the sporting and automobile industry and a befitting tribute to the Azadai Ka Amrit Maha Utsav celebrations, marking India’s befitting arrival in the global platform of motorsport. India could potentially be one of MotoGP’s biggest markets in terms of viewership as well as revenue.
“MotoGP is a critical asset thanks to the viewer loyalty that the sport enjoys and the competitive nature it embodies, already reaching nearly half a billion homes around the world. Dorna Sports, the sole commercial and television rights holder, produces the world feed television coverage of each Grand Prix throughout the season, from acquisition to distribution, as part of a 360 degree event management philosophy.”
Mr Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh: “It is a matter of great pride for Uttar Pradesh to host such a globally prestigious mega sports event. Not only will the event boost the hospitality and tourism sectors, but it will also put UP on the global platform. Our government will provide all the necessary support to make this event a huge success.”
Shri Nand Gopal “Nandi”, Cabinet Minister, Government of Uttar Pradesh for Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI, Investment Promotion, said, “The event will not only be a boon to motorcycle racing fans but also provide a major impetus to the economy by generating an influx of foreign investments and ushering in advancement in the personal transportation industry which would transcend into global investments and a preferred destination for OEM’s in the state of Uttar Pradesh.”
MotoAmerica: Superbike Championship Going Down To The Wire At Barber
Here We Go: It’s Title Time At Barber Motorsports Park
Just Four Points Between Gagne And Petrucci, And It’s Time For The Season Finale At Barber Motorsports Park, September 23-25
IRVINE, CA (September 21, 2022) – All good things must come to an end, and such is the case with the 2022 MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship. But not before it all comes to a head at Barber Motorsports Park, September 23-25, in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an epic season.
And it all starts at the top as the season finale has turned into a winner-take-all battle for the Medallia Superbike Championship as one of two deserving men will be crowned champion on Sunday afternoon in Alabama.
The two protagonists couldn’t be any different.
One of them is from Colorado by way of California, the other is from Italy. One is the defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, the other comes from MotoGP via the Dakar Rally. One races a Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing YZF-R1, the other a Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 R.
Meet Jake Gagne and Danilo Petrucci.
With two races remaining in 2022, Gagne leads the championship by just four points after gaining three points on Petrucci at the New Jersey Motorsports Park round. Gagne rode to his 11th win on Saturday in the Jersey sunshine, but on Sunday Petrucci finally got the chance to show off his rain-riding prowess with his fifth victory of the year coming in a downpour. Petrucci was a struggling fourth on Saturday, Gagne a careful third on Sunday. Thus, the three-point gain for Gagne.
It’s obvious that Petrucci thrives in the rain and who can forget last year’s deluge at Barber Motorsports Park? But also remember that Gagne went into last year’s finale with the championship already wrapped up. He was careful in the rain because he could be in two of the three races (yes, three races last year), but he went out and won in the wet in the last race of the year for his 17th victory in 2021. Wet or dry, Gagne and Petrucci will go at it for the duration. They will have to.
Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen’s mouth starts to water at the thought of racing at Barber Motorsports Park, the site of his first-career Superbike win last year. He loves the place, and he could play a role in the outcome of the championship as he will obviously be helping Gagne if the need arises.
Petersen is third in the championship and will be looking to hold on to that spot with fellow South African Mathew Scholtz giving chase in fourth. Scholtz, who also won a race last year at Barber, is 17 points behind on his Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1. Petersen has nine podiums in 2022, including his victory in race two at Road America; Scholtz has 10 podiums, including his victory in race one in Wisconsin.
Fifth place in the championship looks like a lock for Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hector Barbera with the Spaniard racking up solid points in every race bar two. His consistency has placed him 32 points clear of his teammate PJ Jacobsen with the latter crashing out of pole position in race two at NJMP for his fourth non-finish of the season. Jacobsen’s early-season run was also hampered when he was forced to miss both races at Road Atlanta with COVID-19.
Still, Jacobsen looks set to finish sixth in his first season with the upstart Tytlers Cycle Racing team as he goes into Barber with 15 points in hand over Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Jake Lewis with the Kentuckian fighting to beat his rookie teammate, Richie Escalante, in the championship. Lewis is nine points ahead of Escalante.
The man on the move in the standings is Disrupt Racing’s Hayden Gillim. After six strong finishes in a row in the Medallia Superbike class, Gillim finds himself just three points behind Escalante and 12 behind Lewis.
Tenth place is held by After Care Hayes Scheibe’s Ashton Yates, who crashed out of a battle with Gagne for third in race two at NJMP. Yates, who is currently 10th, could pass Gillim as he trails him by just five points.
Pre-Barber Superbike Notes…
While Danilo Petrucci has been fighting with a horde of Yamahas all season long in the form of Jake Gagne, Cameron Petersen and Mathew Scholtz, he will at least have a comrade in red with him for the final two races of the year at Barber Motorsports Park as he will be joined on a Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 R by newly crowned Supersport Champion Josh Herrin. How much help could Herrin be? Well, the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion has that title, and eight Superbike wins on his resume.
The Superbike Cup and the $25,000 that goes to the winner of the class within a class will go down to the wire at Barber with Danilo Lewis leading Brandon Paasch by just 11 points in a battle that looks like it will be between just those two. Paasch has five wins to his credit and Lewis has three.
There were three Superbike races held over the course of MotoAmerica’s final round a year ago and all three were entertaining with rain wreaking havoc. Race one was won by Cameron Petersen, the South African the first in recent memory to crash and still win a Superbike race. Petersen bested Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz, who had also crashed out of the lead only to remount and finish second. Third went to Ducati-mounted Loris Baz. In race two it was Scholtz who came away with victory over Baz and Jake Gagne. In Sunday afternoon’s third race of the weekend, Gagne scored a record-setting 17th win of the season over Scholtz and Baz.
Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier is the Superbike lap record holder at Barber Motorsports Park with his best of 1:22.676 set during Superpole in 2020. Beaubier also holds the Superbike race lap record with his 1:23.403 coming in race two in 2020 on the 2.3-mile Barber circuit.
With his 28th Superbike win coming at New Jersey Motorsports Park in the ninth round of the championship, Jake Gagne now has 28 career AMA Superbike wins which places him in a tie for sixth with former AMA and World Superbike Champion Ben Spies. Next up for Gagne is Toni Elias and his 32 career victories in AMA Superbike racing.
Australian Mat Mladin has won more Superbike races at Barber Motorsports Park than any other racer with nine victories from 2004 to 2009. Josh Hayes is second on the Barber win list with seven Superbike wins – all in a row from 2012 to 2015. Cameron Beaubier has won five Superbike races in Alabama. The very first Superbike races held at Barber were in 2003 with Aaron Yates winning race one and Kurtis Roberts taking victory in race two.
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.
More, from a press release issued by Westby Racing:
Mathew Scholtz And Westby Racing Ready To Make It A Dozen At Barber Motorsports Park This Weekend
Tulsa, OK – September 21, 2022 – The 10th and final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship starts this Friday at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, and Mathew Scholtz and his Westby Racing team are looking for two more Superbike podium finishes to make it an even dozen on the year.
Mathew and the team are coming off a runner-up and third-place finish at round nine in New Jersey the weekend before last, and they are aiming to keep the momentum going this weekend in Alabama.
Currently ranked fourth in the season points standings, Mathew has a chance to take over third place in the rankings, and there is no better place than Barber Motorsports Park for him to do it. The 17-turn, 2.38-mile road course has always suited Mathew’s riding style as well as the power and handling characteristics of his #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike. In fact, Barber is the site of two of The Scholtz Kid’s five career Superbike victories. One of those wins came just last year during an unusual three-race weekend for MotoAmerica at Barber, and in each of the other two races, Mathew was runner-up.
What’s more, Mathew and the Westby Racing team have a six-race podium streak at Barber Motorsports Park extending all the way back to 2019.
“I can’t wait to race at Barber,” Mathew said. “It’s always been one of my favorite tracks, and it’s always been good for me and the Westby team. Last year, it rained, and I got some good results, but I’m looking forward to dry, sunny weather this weekend. I feel like we’re at a really good point with the bike and my riding. I know there’s a lot of attention around the Gagne and Petrucci championship battle, but I think, myself and the Westby team know what we’ve got to do. We’ll put our heads down, work hard, and try to bring home a win or two, finish off the season on a high note, and put us in good stride towards the 2023 season. So, it’s the final race weekend of the season, and a big thank you to the fans and everyone who have helped me and the Westby team to get where we are. It’s only going to get better from here.”
Superbike final qualifying is on Saturday morning at 10:15 a.m. CT. Superbike race one will go green on Saturday afternoon at 3:10 p.m. CT and will be broadcast via tape delay on FOX Sports 2 (FS2) Saturday night at 11:30 p.m. ET. Superbike race two is on Sunday afternoon, also at 3:10 p.m. CT and will be broadcast via tape delay on FS2 Sunday night at 9 p.m. ET.
For all the action from Barber Motorsports Park, as it happens, subscribe to MotoAmerica Live+, which is MotoAmerica’s live streaming and on-demand service.
Meet Mathew, Get An Autographed Poster, And More
Mathew will be available for autographs during the Dunlop Hot Pit Walk & Autograph Session, scheduled for 11 to 11:40 a.m. Sunday on pit lane at Barber Motorsports Park. He and the team will be handing out free posters and T-shirts, so don’t miss it.
Check Out The Westby Racing Sponsor Showcase
Attack Performance and Puig USA are the featured team sponsors on display in the Westby Racing paddock area this race weekend, so be sure to stop by to say hello and learn about some of the companies that support the team.
For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.WestbyRacing.com
Also, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media sites.
More, from a press release issued by Ducati North America:
It’s The Final Showdown For Danilo Petrucci and Ducati
Danilo Petrucci and Ducati ready to slug it out for an incredible rookie championship this weekend at Barber Motorsports Park
Sunnyvale, Calif., September 21, 2022 — After nine rounds and 18 races, it all comes down to this. The incredible Barber Motorsports Park will play host to the final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and will see a champion crowned in the form of Yamaha’s Jake Gage or Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s star Italian, Danilo Petrucci.
Former two-time MotoGP race winner Petrucci’s never-give-up style served him well at the previous round at New Jersey Motorsports Park, where a crucial victory pulled him to within four points of defending champion Gagne with two races and 50 points up for grabs at Barber.
It will be a winner-take-all encounter as the two star riders in this year’s championship go head-to-head one last time in 2022.
Petrucci is hoping to emulate fellow Ducati legend Troy Corser, the last rider to win an AMA/MotoAmerica Superbike Championship in red as a rookie and it would be the first title for an Italian on American soil.
Danilo Petrucci (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC – Ducati #9): “I’m feeling really good about this weekend,” Petrucci said. “I’ve been spending the time since New Jersey in America and I have had plenty of rest and good training to be as ready as possible for Barber. I’m happy, whatever way this weekend will go. We’ve been able to bring a lot of excitement to this championship and, for sure, we’re ready. We know we have to do everything at 101 percent because our opponents are really fast. We want to finish the year in the best possible way. It will be tough to win, but we will try as hard as possible. Barber is a small track for us, but I’m happy to have brought this fight to the end of the season.”
The final of the 2022 Medallia MotoAmerica Superbike from Barber Motorsports Park will start with Superbike action at 10:50 am CDT on Friday, September 23. Race one is scheduled for Saturday, September 24 at 3:10 pm and race two kicks off on Sunday, September 25 at 2:10 pm.
NHRA Champ Brown Urges Congress To Pass RPM Act To Safeguard Motorsports
NHRA Champion Antron Brown Warns Congress That Motorsports Is At Risk
— Top Fuel Champion shares inspiring stories about the value and importance of racing, and why he is pushing for passage of the RPM Act —
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Just days after winning the NHRA Top Fuel Race in Indianapolis, Ind., Antron Brown made his way to Washington, D.C., to urge Congress to pass the SEMA-supported Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act. On Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022, the three-time Top Fuel world champion, who began his racing career nearly 40 years ago, appeared before Congress to share personal stories about the need for federal law to protect grassroots racing and tens of thousands of jobs in the motorsports parts industry.
With his two sons and wife at his side, Brown shared how motorsports taught him to set goals, work hard to achieve them, and other important life lessons. Representing a four-generation family of racing professionals, Brown talked about how he began racing motorcycles at the age of 4, has enjoyed a successful career with 70 NHRA wins, and became a team owner earlier this year. He continues to support and promote the NHRA to the community and youth groups, relaying the origins of the organization that was formed in 1951 to get hot rodders safely off the streets and onto the track.
“Americans all over the country enjoy the hobby of modifying vehicles into racecars,” said U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. “The bipartisan Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act would clarify that vehicles to be used solely for competition are not to be treated like the cars that drive on our nation’s roads. This legislation would ensure small businesses that help hobbyists who transition vehicles into racecars, which are not driven on the roads, are not unfairly punished or targeted through EPA enforcement. It was a pleasure to welcome champion driver Antron Brown today and hear his life’s story, which reinforces how the RPM Act would protect the future of motorsports by making clear those who want to pursue their passion can affordably do so without fear of Washington bureaucrats.”
Ranking Member Capito is amongst the 31 bipartisan co-sponsors of the RPM Act. First introduced in 2016, the bipartisan bill would enshrine in Federal law that it is legal to modify street vehicles into dedicated race vehicles.
“Racing is much more than just a pastime for me,” said Brown. “I have countless fond childhood memories and have learned many life lessons at the racetrack. I have built a life on the track and am building a business through AB Motorsports. I feel strongly that we must keep the path to entry into motorsports accessible to future racers.”
Brown explained that for amateur racers, modifying production vehicles is the only cost-effective way to get into racing. He testified that the converted motorcycle that he began racing cost about $5,000; a purpose-built vehicle would have been 10 times that amount.
This practice of converting street vehicles into dedicated race vehicles had gone unquestioned until 2015 when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a draft ruling stating that it is not legal to convert production vehicles into dedicated race vehicles. Although the ruling was never finalized, the EPA maintains its position that such conversions are not legal and continues to enforce against the production and sale of high-performance parts.
Brown emphasized during his testimony that the RPM Act is focused solely on dedicated race vehicles that are trailered to and from the racetrack. Opponents to the RPM Act acknowledged during the Senate hearing that such vehicles do not have a measurable or meaningful impact on the environment.
“Racing is important to many Arizonans – and it’s a part of our state’s legacy,” said U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ). “The RPM Act will help provide certainty to Arizona’s amateur racers and auto mechanics from EPA regulations, which could harm their ability to enjoy the hobby of motorsport.”
The RPM Act would not impede on the EPA’s ability to enforce clean air laws. Vehicles driven on public streets would continue to be governed by the federal Clean Air Act.
“For nearly 45 years, the Clean Air Act did not apply to dedicated race vehicles. The EPA’s recent interpretation of the law has thrown the motorsports industry into a state of uncertainty,” said Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). “Now that the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has held a hearing on the RPM Act, we urge the committee to schedule a vote on the bill. SEMA is urging all racers, motorsports businesses, and fans to ask their elected officials to support and pass the RPM Act.”
“Racers and small businesses that manufacture, distribute, and sell race parts have waited long enough. It’s time to pass the RPM Act and give the racing community the clarity it needs and deserves,” said Spagnola.
The SaveOurRacecars.com website has resources to help identify and contact the appropriate policymakers about the RPM Act.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org, www.semashow.com, or www.performanceracing.com.
MotoAmerica: How To Watch All The Action From Barber Motorsports Park
MotoAmerica: How To Watch the MotoAmerica Superbikes at Alabama
It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action
Everything you need to know to watch all the racing from Barber Motorsports Park!
WorldSBK: Baz Continuing With Bonovo Action BMW Team In 2023
Loris Baz to race for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team as a BMW Motorrad WorldSBK factory rider also in 2023.
Loris Baz to contest his second season on the BMW M 1000 RR in 2023.
The Frenchman will start for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team, as he does this season.
Marc Bongers: “With his experience, ability and personality, Loris adds an awful lot to the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team and our whole WorldSBK project”.
Munich. Loris Baz (FRA) will remain part of the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family in 2023, and will start as a BMW Motorrad factory rider in the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) again. Next year will be his second season with the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team. The collaboration has been extended accordingly. Baz’s new team-mate will be American Garrett Gerloff.
The 29-year-old Frenchman and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team have worked well together from the outset this season, their first together, and have enjoyed success. They have already achieved their goal of finishing in the top ten on multiple occasions. Baz was also in contention for a podium at his home round at Magny-Cours (FRA).
“Loris is an important part of our family of BMW factory riders, and we are thrilled that he will start for the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again in 2023,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “You could tell from the word go that the chemistry was good between him, the team and his fellow factory riders. With his experience, ability and personality, Loris adds an awful lot to the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team and our whole WorldSBK project. It is excellent news that this impressive collaboration will continue next season. We are confident that we will continue to move forward together.”
Jürgen Röder, owner of the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team, said: “I am delighted that Loris is staying with us. We are very happy about that, and I believe that Loris Baz and his team-mate Garrett Gerloff will form an incredibly strong duo next year, when we can hopefully push hard with the BMW. From a riding potential, we have a great troop, and the team in the background will also remain the same for next year. As such, we will have a well-practiced team in 2023, which has done an outstanding job this year. Furthermore, we will have Loris, Garrett and Eugene Laverty, in the role of riding coach, by my side. Eugene gets on superbly with both riders, so I think the collaboration is going to be great in that regard too. That encourages me to be very positive looking ahead.”
“I am really happy that I will ride for BMW and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again next year,” said Baz. “I never doubted that I would. When I joined the project, the intention was to be involved in the long term and to improve every year. I feel really good in the team, and BMW is working harder than anyone else to achieve the goal we all have. I am also delighted to have such a nice guy as Garrett as my team-mate. I also have a very good relationship with Eugene, and it is really important for the team that we feel like a family. I am sure that will also be the case with Garrett. The goal is now to end 2022 strongly and go into the 2023 season with a good basis. Thank you to everyone at BMW, Jürgen Röder and Michael Galinski for the faith they have put in me.”
MotoAmerica: Herrin Not Racing In Superbike At Barber
Herrin’s Homecoming Set for Barber Motorsports Park
Josh Herrin rolling in as the champion and ready for some fun in the Heart of Dixie
Sunnyvale, Calif. — Josh Herrin’s Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Ducati Panigale V2 final hit-out for the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship is set for Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama this weekend.
Herrin clinched the championship with a measured and calm performance at New Jersey Motorsports Park two weeks ago, leaving the Northeast with an unassailable 93-point lead heading into this final Barber round with 50 points and two race wins still to play for.
After earlier stating intentions to race a second Ducati Panigale V4 SBK in the Superbike category as teammate to Danilo Petrucci at Barber, Herrin and the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC team has since decided against the plan and will instead concentrate on the Supersport class with the tantalizing prospect of finishing the championship with a massive 100-point buffer over second place.
Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC – #2) : “I’m excited to race Barber this weekend. It’s one of my favorite tracks on the schedule,” Herrin said. “I want to end the year with two more wins. It’s nice to go into the weekend with no stress on our shoulders, just race and do our best without the championship to worry about. I’m looking forward to it and can’t wait to see everyone out at Barber.”
The ninth and final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at Barber Motorsports Park will kick off with Free Practice 1 at 10:10 CDT on Friday, September 23. Race One is scheduled for Saturday, September 24 at 2:10 pm CDT with Race Two, the last race of 2022, to be held on September 25 at 2:10 pm CDT.
Intro: 2022 Yamaha MT-10, In The September Issue
Featured In the September 2022 issue of Roadracing World:
“Ride-by-wire throttles are here to stay and, depending on how you feel about being in control, that can be a good or bad thing.
“On a racebike with unfettered access to the engine control unit (ECU), ride-by-wire is a powerful tool to be able to do neat tricks like taking the slack out of the chain before allowing more power to the rear wheel, or only delivering as much power as the tire or wheelie will allow regardless of what the rider is requesting with the twist grip. Impressive stuff…”
—2022 Yamaha MT-10 Intro, by Sam Q. Fleming
Knee-dragging performance? All-day comfort? They’re not mutually exclusive when it comes to Yamaha’s new MT-10. Sam Q. Fleming ripped the bike around North Carolina—read his impressions in the latest issue of Roadracing World!
PREVIEW the September 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.
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Yamaha Pledges $500,000, Urges All To Get Outdoors On Sept. 24
Yamaha Pledges $500K, Urges All to Get Outdoors on September 24
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Celebrates National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 21, 2022 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors on Saturday, September 24, 2022, in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day). In recognition of these events, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) is renewing its annual pledge to commit $500,000 to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation and encouraging applications for grants before the next quarterly deadline on September 30.
National Public Lands Day invites volunteers nationwide to help restore and preserve public lands – from national parks to local urban green spaces – directly aligning with Yamaha OAI’s goal of protecting public lands for outdoor recreation. To date, the Yamaha OAI program has contributed over $5 million in funding and equipment across more than 425 projects in the last 14 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate everyone on safe, sustainable recreational use. Yamaha OAI has proven to be the industry’s most reliable partner and a significant resource for those who depend on access to public land for work and play.
Additionally, on September 24, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. NHF Day events are organized each year by Wonders of Wildlife to spread awareness of the conservation and economic benefits, as well as traditions and values of hunting and fishing. Yamaha OAI is a founding partner of Wonders of Wildlife’s Live It! program and a supporter of its efforts to expand NHF Day events across the country. These events play a significant role in expanding awareness of the issues facing public access and outdoor recreation, and the Live It! program supports local conservation groups wanting to host or enhance NHF Day events, but are limited in their resources.
Since access to public land is best protected by visitors’ responsible and sustainable practices, Yamaha OAI partners with Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC) on a variety of activities, including signage for land managers to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use of trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for the signs can simply complete a form at the following link: Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.
“Last year we made a commitment to grant half a million dollars to outdoor projects, and we’re proud to say we exceeded that goal,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “Our lives are rooted in the outdoors and Yamaha’s direct and significant financial support of Wonders of Wildlife, Recreate Responsibly, and so many other outdoor organizations help make recreation on public lands possible. In celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day and National Public Lands Day, we’re excited to renew our annual commitment to make a minimum of $500,000 available in 2022 to organizations who help create opportunities for outdoor recreation.”
The Yamaha OAI program encourages riding clubs, land stewardship associations, and public land managers to work together with Yamaha dealers to identify projects and apply for support. Yamaha OAI is a one-stop resource for outdoor organizations seeking support for their next project. Visit YamahaOAI.com for application details, or examples of some typical projects the program supports for inspiration.
The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of the 2022 funding cycle is September 30, 2022. Submission guidelines and an application for a Yamaha OAI grant are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA
About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Since 2008, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative has led the Powersports industry in supporting responsible access to our nation’s public lands for outdoor enthusiasts. With more than $5 million contributed to 425 projects across the country, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams, and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state, and local public land-use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations, and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding, and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible, and sustainable public use.
Updated guidelines, an application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email [email protected], or write to:
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
3065 Chastain Meadows Parkway, Bldg. 100
Marietta, GA 30066
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
American Flat Track: Fan Appreciation Night Coming To Volusia Half-Mile II
Mission Happy Hour to Highlight Fan Appreciation Night at Progressive AFT Season Finale
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (September 21, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track will celebrate its fanbase with a special “Fan Appreciation Night” at the Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II presented by Daytona Dodge on the season’s final day, Saturday, October 15, at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida.
The centerpiece of Fan Appreciation Night will be the Mission Happy Hour. Gates will open an hour early to allow the Mission Happy Hour to run from 2:30 p.m. local time up until on-track action kicks off for the evening at 4:00 p.m.
During that time, fans will enjoy a rider meet and greet along with a special Q&A hosted by Ralph Sheehen featuring the sport’s greatest athletes. There will also be a variety of special attractions, music, games, prizes, and giveaways.
Every attendee will receive a raffle ticket upon entrance and be welcome to take part in the taco eating contest alongside VIPs and past Progressive AFT championships. There will also be yard games to enjoy, including Jenga, Cornhole, and Connect 4.
Fans will also have the opportunity to win various prizes, including free Paddock Pass Upgrades, event shirts, food and beverage vouchers, and the chance to eat dinner alongside the riders and crew inside the Mission Hospitality Tent, among other offerings. Additionally, 20 attendees will get the exclusive experience of getting their photo taken at the podium.
Progressive AFT fans will also be able to take advantage of a special 50% off discount for the Paddock Pass Upgrade during the session’s opening half hour and then enjoy $5 off all merchandise for the final hour.
Additionally, the Halifax Humane Society will be in attendance, complete with ambassador dogs. Fans are encouraged to bring donations, the most pressing items being pet food (wet and dry, dog, cat, and kitten), treats, peanut butter, and laundry detergent.
Visit https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3697 to secure your tickets for the Mission Volusia Finale I & II presented by Daytona Dodge today.
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
How to Watch:
FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.
Moto Guzzi Launches Limited-Edition V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale
ABOARD THE CAVOUR AIRCRAFT CARRIER, MOTO GUZZI AND THE ITALIAN NAVY CELEBRATE THEIR CLOSE TIES, STARTING WITH THE EAGLE SYMBOL
The occasion saw the world preview of the V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale, a limited edition of 1913 numbered motorcycles
Packed with technology, the latest arrival in the Moto Guzzi family features a unique livery inspired by the F-35B fighters, making it the most striking model in the V100 range
Civitavecchia, 21 September 2022 – On the spectacular stage of the flight deck of the Cavour aircraft carrier, Moto Guzzi and the Italian Navy have celebrated the close ties that have united them for more than one hundred years.
The spread-winged eagle, the unmistakeable emblem of Moto Guzzi since it was established in 1921, dates back to the military service of the company’s founders, Carlo Guzzi and Giorgio Parodi, in the Italian Royal Navy’s Aeronautical Arm in World War One. It was during the war that the two friends, and pilot Giovanni Ravelli, decided to go into motorcycle manufacturing once the conflict ended. Ravelli was killed in an accident in 1919 and was unable to achieve his dream. Guzzi and Parodi chose the Eagle as their symbol in memory of their companion.
The event was an emotional occasion, which included the world preview of the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale, a special numbered limited-edition of the latest arrival in the Moto Guzzi family. A technology-rich motorcycle made even more striking in this exclusive version uniting two great names with indissoluble ties to the history of Italy.
The project was made possible thanks to Difesa Servizi S.p.A., an in-house company of the Italian Ministry of Defence responsible for optimising the Department’s assets over the last 10 years, which granted Moto Guzzi use of the “Aviazione Navale” mark for the production of the V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale.
Produced in a limited edition of 1913 numbered motorcycles, a tribute to the year in which the aviation arm of the Italian Navy was formed, the exclusive Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale is a unique model, starting with its special livery inspired by the Navy’s
F-35B fighter jets. The graphics are a faithful reproduction of those of the aircraft, with the insignia on both sides of the cowl, together with the typical “jet intake” stripes. The livery is enhanced by a low-visibility tricolour rosette on the sides of the fuel tank, the emblem of the Italian Naval Aviation, and the logo of the Boarded Aircraft Unit.
Standard features include a tyre pressure monitoring system and heated handlegrips, while the serial number is laser etched on the handlebar riser. Each one of the bikes comes with its own cover and a commemorative plaque.
Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello opens a completely new chapter in the company’s history; it eludes conventional categorisation, combining brilliant performance with the vocation for travel that lies at the heart of every Moto Guzzi two-wheeler.
This is a Moto Guzzi like never before, whose cutting-edge technology and innovative technical and aerodynamic solutions open the door to the future of the brand. The V100 Mandello is an innovative bike starting with the design which, as always, enhances the unique, inimitable twin-cylinder engine. Lines that eschew nostalgia, offering a modern take on the key elements of the Moto Guzzi stylistic idiom. A watershed in the brand’s history, the bike introduces many important technological innovations: the first two-wheeler with adaptive aerodynamics, the first Moto Guzzi model to feature a six-axis inertial platform, ABS cornering, semi-active suspensions and a quick shift, to name just the most important.
The V100 Mandello is also the first Moto Guzzi bike powered by the new compact-block engine with sophisticated technical characteristics. Tradition is maintained by the 90° V-twin architecture, which guarantees Moto Guzzi’s unique torque delivery and inimitable sound, but the project is completely new and offers impressively brilliant performance: power of 115 hp and torque of 105 Nm, with 82% already available at 3,500 rpm.
Naval Aviation
Italy’s Naval Aviation – Aviazione Navale – is the air component of the Italian Navy, created to operate at sea in close contact with its ships. Its origins date back to 1913, when the Aeronautical Service of the Royal Navy was officially formed.
The Navy’s aviation units are currently headed by the COMFORAER Air Forces Command, which is responsible for the organisation and coordination of the activities of all the Navy’s aircraft, including maintenance, management of logistics infrastructure and training for flight and ground personnel.
Its fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters are boarded on vessels equipped with hangars and a flight deck, on amphibious assault units and on aircraft carriers.
Since the 1980s, Italy’s Naval Aviation has been involved in all the main international operations.
The Cavour aircraft carrier
The Cavour (CVH 550) is a short take-off and vertical landing aircraft carrier, built by Fincantieri. It entered service for the Italian Navy in 2009.
With an LOA of 244 metres and 220 metres of runway, the Cavour is the Italian Navy’s flagship, and one of the most important technological investments of the country’s national defence system.
The Cavour is able to board and operate with all the aircraft used by the Italian Navy: helicopters (AB 212, EH 101, NH 90), AV-8B aircraft and latest-generation aircraft such as
F-35B fighters.
The flight deck extends from bow to stern with a runway parallel with the carrier’s longitudinal axis and a ski-jump, to ensure that aircraft can take off with the maximum payload. The hangar is designed to hold up to 12 helicopters or, alternatively, 8 aircraft. Handling operations between the hangar and the flight deck are managed by two 30-tonne elevators. The Cavour is manned by a fixed crew of 550 sailors and can accommodate up to 1,200.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A. is the in-house company of the Italian Ministry of Defence responsible for managing and optimising the Department’s assets. On the market, it provides services for a variety of national and international stakeholders.
Since it was established in 2011, the company has met the need for innovation and promoted the unique values of the Italian Armed Forces, operating in a multiplicity of sectors through meticulous economic management of the defence assets and services entrusted to it.
Difesa Servizi S.p.A. offers a range of goods and services such as economic management of real estate and assets, excluding disposal; environmental optimisation of military units for the production of energy from renewable sources; promotion and economic management of the operations and services provided to third parties by the Armed Forces in the meteorological, health, merchandise, geo-cartographic, aerial and satellite photography sectors; brand optimisation through the temporary paid concession of the logos, denominations and distinctive signs of the Armed Forces; promotion and invoicing of technical activities and services, including those relating to the Ministry’s industrial and production activities, for which a special mandate has been conferred on national and international bodies in the public and private sectors.
Established in March 2010, it began operations in the second half of 2011.
MotoGP: Dorna Working On Bringing Grand Prix To India
Dorna begins work towards future MotoGP™ Grand Prix in India
Wednesday, 21 September 2022
Dorna Sports is delighted to announce that work has begun on a possible future Indian Grand Prix, with the target of bringing the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship to the Indian subcontinent in the near future.
Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta has recently visited India to meet with authorities and potential event promoter Fairstreet Sports. The visit began at the spectacular Buddh International Circuit, right outside New Delhi, which would be the target venue to host the possible MotoGP™ event.
Thereafter, the delegation also travelled to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the region in which the circuit is located, to meet with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mr Yogi Adityanath and Industrial Development Minister Mr Nand Gopal “Nandi”.
Finally the visit ended with a presentation in New Delhi to local media and representatives of the motorcycling industry, which showcased the great expectation the country has for MotoGP™.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta: “India is a huge country and market, and an especially important one for the two-wheeled industry and MotoGP as a sport. The Championship has a huge fan base there and being able to hold a MotoGP event in India would be both an incredible spectacle for our fans at the same time as allowing us to continue to grow the sport in the region, which is hugely important for our all our partners and the manufacturers in particular given the hundreds of millions of two-wheeled vehicles on its roads. We would love to be able to see this project through and bring these incredible MotoGP bikes to race in front of the Indian fans.
“At MotoGP we are committed to our fans and aim to make the sport accessible to all, regardless of where they are, who they are or their economic status. Motorcycles are an incredible tool for transportation and in many areas of the world they drive society, providing economic mobility and powering families around the world. Racing in India would be a reflection of our commitment to open the doors to the sport as widely as we can, and would be and an important achievement for the Championship.”
Union Sports Minister Shri Anurag Thakur, during the meeting with Fairstreet Sports team, added: “It’s a historical day for the sporting and automobile industry and a befitting tribute to the Azadai Ka Amrit Maha Utsav celebrations, marking India’s befitting arrival in the global platform of motorsport. India could potentially be one of MotoGP’s biggest markets in terms of viewership as well as revenue.
“MotoGP is a critical asset thanks to the viewer loyalty that the sport enjoys and the competitive nature it embodies, already reaching nearly half a billion homes around the world. Dorna Sports, the sole commercial and television rights holder, produces the world feed television coverage of each Grand Prix throughout the season, from acquisition to distribution, as part of a 360 degree event management philosophy.”
Mr Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh: “It is a matter of great pride for Uttar Pradesh to host such a globally prestigious mega sports event. Not only will the event boost the hospitality and tourism sectors, but it will also put UP on the global platform. Our government will provide all the necessary support to make this event a huge success.”
Shri Nand Gopal “Nandi”, Cabinet Minister, Government of Uttar Pradesh for Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI, Investment Promotion, said, “The event will not only be a boon to motorcycle racing fans but also provide a major impetus to the economy by generating an influx of foreign investments and ushering in advancement in the personal transportation industry which would transcend into global investments and a preferred destination for OEM’s in the state of Uttar Pradesh.”
MotoAmerica: Superbike Championship Going Down To The Wire At Barber
Here We Go: It’s Title Time At Barber Motorsports Park
Just Four Points Between Gagne And Petrucci, And It’s Time For The Season Finale At Barber Motorsports Park, September 23-25
IRVINE, CA (September 21, 2022) – All good things must come to an end, and such is the case with the 2022 MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship. But not before it all comes to a head at Barber Motorsports Park, September 23-25, in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an epic season.
And it all starts at the top as the season finale has turned into a winner-take-all battle for the Medallia Superbike Championship as one of two deserving men will be crowned champion on Sunday afternoon in Alabama.
The two protagonists couldn’t be any different.
One of them is from Colorado by way of California, the other is from Italy. One is the defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, the other comes from MotoGP via the Dakar Rally. One races a Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing YZF-R1, the other a Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 R.
Meet Jake Gagne and Danilo Petrucci.
With two races remaining in 2022, Gagne leads the championship by just four points after gaining three points on Petrucci at the New Jersey Motorsports Park round. Gagne rode to his 11th win on Saturday in the Jersey sunshine, but on Sunday Petrucci finally got the chance to show off his rain-riding prowess with his fifth victory of the year coming in a downpour. Petrucci was a struggling fourth on Saturday, Gagne a careful third on Sunday. Thus, the three-point gain for Gagne.
It’s obvious that Petrucci thrives in the rain and who can forget last year’s deluge at Barber Motorsports Park? But also remember that Gagne went into last year’s finale with the championship already wrapped up. He was careful in the rain because he could be in two of the three races (yes, three races last year), but he went out and won in the wet in the last race of the year for his 17th victory in 2021. Wet or dry, Gagne and Petrucci will go at it for the duration. They will have to.
Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen’s mouth starts to water at the thought of racing at Barber Motorsports Park, the site of his first-career Superbike win last year. He loves the place, and he could play a role in the outcome of the championship as he will obviously be helping Gagne if the need arises.
Petersen is third in the championship and will be looking to hold on to that spot with fellow South African Mathew Scholtz giving chase in fourth. Scholtz, who also won a race last year at Barber, is 17 points behind on his Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1. Petersen has nine podiums in 2022, including his victory in race two at Road America; Scholtz has 10 podiums, including his victory in race one in Wisconsin.
Fifth place in the championship looks like a lock for Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hector Barbera with the Spaniard racking up solid points in every race bar two. His consistency has placed him 32 points clear of his teammate PJ Jacobsen with the latter crashing out of pole position in race two at NJMP for his fourth non-finish of the season. Jacobsen’s early-season run was also hampered when he was forced to miss both races at Road Atlanta with COVID-19.
Still, Jacobsen looks set to finish sixth in his first season with the upstart Tytlers Cycle Racing team as he goes into Barber with 15 points in hand over Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Jake Lewis with the Kentuckian fighting to beat his rookie teammate, Richie Escalante, in the championship. Lewis is nine points ahead of Escalante.
The man on the move in the standings is Disrupt Racing’s Hayden Gillim. After six strong finishes in a row in the Medallia Superbike class, Gillim finds himself just three points behind Escalante and 12 behind Lewis.
Tenth place is held by After Care Hayes Scheibe’s Ashton Yates, who crashed out of a battle with Gagne for third in race two at NJMP. Yates, who is currently 10th, could pass Gillim as he trails him by just five points.
Pre-Barber Superbike Notes…
While Danilo Petrucci has been fighting with a horde of Yamahas all season long in the form of Jake Gagne, Cameron Petersen and Mathew Scholtz, he will at least have a comrade in red with him for the final two races of the year at Barber Motorsports Park as he will be joined on a Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 R by newly crowned Supersport Champion Josh Herrin. How much help could Herrin be? Well, the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion has that title, and eight Superbike wins on his resume.
The Superbike Cup and the $25,000 that goes to the winner of the class within a class will go down to the wire at Barber with Danilo Lewis leading Brandon Paasch by just 11 points in a battle that looks like it will be between just those two. Paasch has five wins to his credit and Lewis has three.
There were three Superbike races held over the course of MotoAmerica’s final round a year ago and all three were entertaining with rain wreaking havoc. Race one was won by Cameron Petersen, the South African the first in recent memory to crash and still win a Superbike race. Petersen bested Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz, who had also crashed out of the lead only to remount and finish second. Third went to Ducati-mounted Loris Baz. In race two it was Scholtz who came away with victory over Baz and Jake Gagne. In Sunday afternoon’s third race of the weekend, Gagne scored a record-setting 17th win of the season over Scholtz and Baz.
Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier is the Superbike lap record holder at Barber Motorsports Park with his best of 1:22.676 set during Superpole in 2020. Beaubier also holds the Superbike race lap record with his 1:23.403 coming in race two in 2020 on the 2.3-mile Barber circuit.
With his 28th Superbike win coming at New Jersey Motorsports Park in the ninth round of the championship, Jake Gagne now has 28 career AMA Superbike wins which places him in a tie for sixth with former AMA and World Superbike Champion Ben Spies. Next up for Gagne is Toni Elias and his 32 career victories in AMA Superbike racing.
Australian Mat Mladin has won more Superbike races at Barber Motorsports Park than any other racer with nine victories from 2004 to 2009. Josh Hayes is second on the Barber win list with seven Superbike wins – all in a row from 2012 to 2015. Cameron Beaubier has won five Superbike races in Alabama. The very first Superbike races held at Barber were in 2003 with Aaron Yates winning race one and Kurtis Roberts taking victory in race two.
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.
More, from a press release issued by Westby Racing:
Mathew Scholtz And Westby Racing Ready To Make It A Dozen At Barber Motorsports Park This Weekend
Tulsa, OK – September 21, 2022 – The 10th and final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship starts this Friday at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, and Mathew Scholtz and his Westby Racing team are looking for two more Superbike podium finishes to make it an even dozen on the year.
Mathew and the team are coming off a runner-up and third-place finish at round nine in New Jersey the weekend before last, and they are aiming to keep the momentum going this weekend in Alabama.
Currently ranked fourth in the season points standings, Mathew has a chance to take over third place in the rankings, and there is no better place than Barber Motorsports Park for him to do it. The 17-turn, 2.38-mile road course has always suited Mathew’s riding style as well as the power and handling characteristics of his #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike. In fact, Barber is the site of two of The Scholtz Kid’s five career Superbike victories. One of those wins came just last year during an unusual three-race weekend for MotoAmerica at Barber, and in each of the other two races, Mathew was runner-up.
What’s more, Mathew and the Westby Racing team have a six-race podium streak at Barber Motorsports Park extending all the way back to 2019.
“I can’t wait to race at Barber,” Mathew said. “It’s always been one of my favorite tracks, and it’s always been good for me and the Westby team. Last year, it rained, and I got some good results, but I’m looking forward to dry, sunny weather this weekend. I feel like we’re at a really good point with the bike and my riding. I know there’s a lot of attention around the Gagne and Petrucci championship battle, but I think, myself and the Westby team know what we’ve got to do. We’ll put our heads down, work hard, and try to bring home a win or two, finish off the season on a high note, and put us in good stride towards the 2023 season. So, it’s the final race weekend of the season, and a big thank you to the fans and everyone who have helped me and the Westby team to get where we are. It’s only going to get better from here.”
Superbike final qualifying is on Saturday morning at 10:15 a.m. CT. Superbike race one will go green on Saturday afternoon at 3:10 p.m. CT and will be broadcast via tape delay on FOX Sports 2 (FS2) Saturday night at 11:30 p.m. ET. Superbike race two is on Sunday afternoon, also at 3:10 p.m. CT and will be broadcast via tape delay on FS2 Sunday night at 9 p.m. ET.
For all the action from Barber Motorsports Park, as it happens, subscribe to MotoAmerica Live+, which is MotoAmerica’s live streaming and on-demand service.
Meet Mathew, Get An Autographed Poster, And More
Mathew will be available for autographs during the Dunlop Hot Pit Walk & Autograph Session, scheduled for 11 to 11:40 a.m. Sunday on pit lane at Barber Motorsports Park. He and the team will be handing out free posters and T-shirts, so don’t miss it.
Check Out The Westby Racing Sponsor Showcase
Attack Performance and Puig USA are the featured team sponsors on display in the Westby Racing paddock area this race weekend, so be sure to stop by to say hello and learn about some of the companies that support the team.
For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.WestbyRacing.com
Also, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media sites.
More, from a press release issued by Ducati North America:
It’s The Final Showdown For Danilo Petrucci and Ducati
Danilo Petrucci and Ducati ready to slug it out for an incredible rookie championship this weekend at Barber Motorsports Park
Sunnyvale, Calif., September 21, 2022 — After nine rounds and 18 races, it all comes down to this. The incredible Barber Motorsports Park will play host to the final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and will see a champion crowned in the form of Yamaha’s Jake Gage or Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s star Italian, Danilo Petrucci.
Former two-time MotoGP race winner Petrucci’s never-give-up style served him well at the previous round at New Jersey Motorsports Park, where a crucial victory pulled him to within four points of defending champion Gagne with two races and 50 points up for grabs at Barber.
It will be a winner-take-all encounter as the two star riders in this year’s championship go head-to-head one last time in 2022.
Petrucci is hoping to emulate fellow Ducati legend Troy Corser, the last rider to win an AMA/MotoAmerica Superbike Championship in red as a rookie and it would be the first title for an Italian on American soil.
Danilo Petrucci (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC – Ducati #9): “I’m feeling really good about this weekend,” Petrucci said. “I’ve been spending the time since New Jersey in America and I have had plenty of rest and good training to be as ready as possible for Barber. I’m happy, whatever way this weekend will go. We’ve been able to bring a lot of excitement to this championship and, for sure, we’re ready. We know we have to do everything at 101 percent because our opponents are really fast. We want to finish the year in the best possible way. It will be tough to win, but we will try as hard as possible. Barber is a small track for us, but I’m happy to have brought this fight to the end of the season.”
The final of the 2022 Medallia MotoAmerica Superbike from Barber Motorsports Park will start with Superbike action at 10:50 am CDT on Friday, September 23. Race one is scheduled for Saturday, September 24 at 3:10 pm and race two kicks off on Sunday, September 25 at 2:10 pm.
NHRA Champ Brown Urges Congress To Pass RPM Act To Safeguard Motorsports
NHRA Champion Antron Brown Warns Congress That Motorsports Is At Risk
— Top Fuel Champion shares inspiring stories about the value and importance of racing, and why he is pushing for passage of the RPM Act —
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Just days after winning the NHRA Top Fuel Race in Indianapolis, Ind., Antron Brown made his way to Washington, D.C., to urge Congress to pass the SEMA-supported Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act. On Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022, the three-time Top Fuel world champion, who began his racing career nearly 40 years ago, appeared before Congress to share personal stories about the need for federal law to protect grassroots racing and tens of thousands of jobs in the motorsports parts industry.
With his two sons and wife at his side, Brown shared how motorsports taught him to set goals, work hard to achieve them, and other important life lessons. Representing a four-generation family of racing professionals, Brown talked about how he began racing motorcycles at the age of 4, has enjoyed a successful career with 70 NHRA wins, and became a team owner earlier this year. He continues to support and promote the NHRA to the community and youth groups, relaying the origins of the organization that was formed in 1951 to get hot rodders safely off the streets and onto the track.
“Americans all over the country enjoy the hobby of modifying vehicles into racecars,” said U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. “The bipartisan Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act would clarify that vehicles to be used solely for competition are not to be treated like the cars that drive on our nation’s roads. This legislation would ensure small businesses that help hobbyists who transition vehicles into racecars, which are not driven on the roads, are not unfairly punished or targeted through EPA enforcement. It was a pleasure to welcome champion driver Antron Brown today and hear his life’s story, which reinforces how the RPM Act would protect the future of motorsports by making clear those who want to pursue their passion can affordably do so without fear of Washington bureaucrats.”
Ranking Member Capito is amongst the 31 bipartisan co-sponsors of the RPM Act. First introduced in 2016, the bipartisan bill would enshrine in Federal law that it is legal to modify street vehicles into dedicated race vehicles.
“Racing is much more than just a pastime for me,” said Brown. “I have countless fond childhood memories and have learned many life lessons at the racetrack. I have built a life on the track and am building a business through AB Motorsports. I feel strongly that we must keep the path to entry into motorsports accessible to future racers.”
Brown explained that for amateur racers, modifying production vehicles is the only cost-effective way to get into racing. He testified that the converted motorcycle that he began racing cost about $5,000; a purpose-built vehicle would have been 10 times that amount.
This practice of converting street vehicles into dedicated race vehicles had gone unquestioned until 2015 when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a draft ruling stating that it is not legal to convert production vehicles into dedicated race vehicles. Although the ruling was never finalized, the EPA maintains its position that such conversions are not legal and continues to enforce against the production and sale of high-performance parts.
Brown emphasized during his testimony that the RPM Act is focused solely on dedicated race vehicles that are trailered to and from the racetrack. Opponents to the RPM Act acknowledged during the Senate hearing that such vehicles do not have a measurable or meaningful impact on the environment.
“Racing is important to many Arizonans – and it’s a part of our state’s legacy,” said U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ). “The RPM Act will help provide certainty to Arizona’s amateur racers and auto mechanics from EPA regulations, which could harm their ability to enjoy the hobby of motorsport.”
The RPM Act would not impede on the EPA’s ability to enforce clean air laws. Vehicles driven on public streets would continue to be governed by the federal Clean Air Act.
“For nearly 45 years, the Clean Air Act did not apply to dedicated race vehicles. The EPA’s recent interpretation of the law has thrown the motorsports industry into a state of uncertainty,” said Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). “Now that the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has held a hearing on the RPM Act, we urge the committee to schedule a vote on the bill. SEMA is urging all racers, motorsports businesses, and fans to ask their elected officials to support and pass the RPM Act.”
“Racers and small businesses that manufacture, distribute, and sell race parts have waited long enough. It’s time to pass the RPM Act and give the racing community the clarity it needs and deserves,” said Spagnola.
The SaveOurRacecars.com website has resources to help identify and contact the appropriate policymakers about the RPM Act.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org, www.semashow.com, or www.performanceracing.com.