Honda Introducing 10 Or More New Electric Motorcycles By 2025

David Swarts

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September 13, 2022

Honda Introducing 10 Or More New Electric Motorcycles By 2025

Summary of Briefing on Honda Motorcycle Business

– Realizing Carbon Neutrality with a Primary Focus on Electrification –

September 13, 2022

Striving to realize carbon neutrality for all of its motorcycle products during the 2040s, as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business, Honda will accelerate electrification of its motorcycle models, while also continuing to advance ICE (internal combustion engines).

Honda plans to introduce 10 or more electric motorcycle models globally by 2025 and aims to increase annual sales of electric models to 1 million units within the next five years, and 3.5 million units (equivalent to 15% of total unit sales) as of 2030.

Silhouettes of 11 of Honda's upcoming electric motorcycle models. Image courtesy Honda. — Silhouettes of 11 of Honda’s upcoming electric motorcycle models. Image courtesy Honda.

As the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, Honda will continue to lead the industry in this “era of carbon neutrality” by continuing to offer the “joy of riding” with its electric motorcycles and by offering products with new value by leveraging the high level of compatibility of software technology and electrified models.

Honda aims to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050. Today, Honda held a press briefing regarding its motorcycle business initiatives, presented by Kohei Takeuchi (Director, Executive Vice President and Representative Executive Officer) and Yoshishige Nomura (Managing Officer).

A summary of the briefing follows:

1. Approach toward carbon neutrality of motorcycle products

To accommodate a variety of uses and needs of customers around the world, Honda offers a wide range of motorcycle products, from small commuter models to large fun models, which are used globally in both emerging and advanced countries. In emerging nations, especially, there is high demand for motorcycles, mainly commuter models, as a lifeline of people in their everyday life; however, popularization of electric models faces challenges such as heavier vehicle weight and higher prices. Also, demand for electric models depends largely on government incentives, regulations and availability of charging infrastructure in each respective market.

Considering these circumstances, Honda will accelerate the electrification of motorcycles as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business, while also continuing to advance ICE, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality for all of its motorcycle products during the 2040s. Moreover, Honda will continue to lead the industry at the forefront of its environmental initiatives.

<Continued Initiatives to Advance ICE>

In order to realize carbon neutrality while accommodating the wide range of customer needs and usage environments unique to motorcycles, Honda continues its initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions from ICE models, while also developing models compatible with carbon neutral fuels such as gasoline-ethanol blends. To be more specific, in addition to Brazil where flex-fuel (E100)*1 motorcycle models are already available, Honda plans to introduce flex-fuel models in India, as well, one of the major motorcycle markets. The plan is to first introduce flex-fuel (E20) *1 models beginning in 2023, and flex-fuel (E100) models in 2025.

2. Electrification Initiatives

<Introducing electric motorcycle models to meet wide-ranging customer needs>

Anticipating market expansion, Honda will introduce electric motorcycles that accommodate a wide range of customer needs. Commuter models and fun models combined, Honda will introduce more than 10 new electric motorcycle models by 2025, with an aim to reach annual electric motorcycle sales of 1 million units within the next five years, and 3.5 million units (approximately 15% of total sales) as of 2030.

Details of product launch plans follow:

(1) Commuter EVs

As businesses are becoming more environmentally conscious, demand for business-use electric motorcycle models has been on the rise in recent years. To fulfill such demand, Honda has been offering the Honda e: Business Bike series models and accelerating the global launch of business-use electric motorcycles. In addition to providing a Honda e: Business Bike series model to Japan Post and Vietnam Post Corporation*2 for mail delivery, Honda is currently conducting joint trials with Thailand Post Company Limited*3, and planning to begin production and sales of the Benly e: in Thailand before the end of this month. These Honda e: Business Bike series models are equipped with Honda Mobile Power Pack (MPP) swappable batteries, which are well-suited to business use such as the delivery of small packages and resolve issues of range and charging time, which are key challenges that need to be addressed to realize widespread use of electric motorcycles.

For personal use, Honda plans to introduce two commuter EV models between 2024 and 2025 in Asia, Europe and Japan. Envisioning the future market environment, uses and technological advancements, Honda is exploring a range of future personal-use models including ones equipped with a power source besides swappable batteries.

(2) Commuter EMs*4 / EBs*5

Currently, EMs and EBs account for more than 90% of industry-wide global electric motorcycle unit sales (approximately 50 million units). In China, the world’s largest electric motorcycle market, EMs/EBs are widely adopted as a convenient form of everyday mobility, and Honda has been offering such products by leveraging its local supplier infrastructure and development/manufacturing operations. With the expectation that demand for EMs/EBs will be expanding globally, Honda plans to introduce a total of five compact and affordable EM and EB models between now and 2024 in Asia, Europe and Japan, in addition to China.

(3) FUN EVs

In addition to commuter EVs, Honda is actively developing electrified models in the “FUN” category. Based on its FUN EV platform currently under development, Honda plans to introduce a total of three large-size FUN EV models in Japan, the U.S and Europe between 2024 and 2025. Honda will also introduce Kids Fun EV model, designed to pass on the joy of riding to the next generation.

<High-efficiency “Monozukuri” that enables expansion of the electric model lineup and sales>

Based on its competitive “Monozukuri” (art of making things) know-how, amassed through the development and application of platforms for ICE-powered models, Honda will develop and apply electric motorcycle platforms that combine the three core components for electric vehicles – the battery, PCU and motor– with the motorcycle body.. By fulfilling customer needs with highly efficient Monozukuri, Honda will continue to offer the joy of mobility with affordably-priced electric motorcycle models.

Regarding the battery, a core component of electric vehicles, Honda aims to equip its electric motorcycle models with an all-solid-state battery Honda is currently developing by making active use of its own resources.

3. Smoother and Smarter Use of Electric Motorcycles

<Initiatives to enhance charging infrastructure and standardize batteries>

Enhancement of charging infrastructure and standardization of battery specifications are vital for the widespread adoption of electric motorcycles. As part of the enhancement of charging infrastructure, Honda is working toward popularization of battery sharing.

(1) Popularization of battery sharing

Honda has established a joint venture in Indonesia, one of the major motorcycle markets, to operate a battery sharing service utilizing MPPs and MPP-powered motorcycles. The JV is currently operating a battery sharing service in Bali.

In India, Honda is planning to begin its battery sharing service for electric tricycle taxis (so-called “rickshaws”) by the end of this year. Honda is also planning to expand its initiatives to popularize battery sharing to other Asian nations.

In Japan, in April of this year, ENEOS Holdings, Inc. and the four major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers*6 jointly incorporated Gachaco, Inc., which will provide a sharing service of standardized swappable batteries for electric motorcycles and develop infrastructure for this service. The company plans to begin its motorcycle battery sharing service this fall.

(2) Standardization of batteries

In Japan, four major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers have agreed on common specifications for swappable batteries based on the JASO TP21003*7 guideline.
Honda is working toward the standardization of swappable batteries while participating in a battery consortium in Europe*8 and working with a partner company in India.

<Strengthening of the areas of software technologies>

To increase the added value of its electric motorcycles, Honda is aiming to transform its business from a focus on non-recurring hardware (product) sales business to a recurring business model combining hardware and software.

In the area of software development, Honda is working with its software subsidiary, Drivemode*9, to enhance new value creation for its electric motorcycle products in the connected realm. Starting with the commuter EV model scheduled to go on sale in 2024, Honda will offer user experience (UX) features that continuously enrich the quality of riding through connectivity, such as offering optimal route options that take into consideration remaining range, charging spot notification, safe riding coaching and after-sales service support.

Looking ahead, Honda will work toward the establishment of a connected platform where greater value will be generated not only by connecting its motorcycles, but by linking a wide range of Honda products and realizing connectivity beyond their product domains.

*1 Gasoline-ethanol blend fuel. Various blend rates are available, from 100% gasoline to 100% ethanol. E100 is 100% ethanol, while E20 is 20% ethanol.

*2 Vietnamese postal service

*3 Thailand postal service

*4 Electric Moped category. Maximum speed: 25km/h – 50km/h

*5 Electric Bicycle category, not including electric-assisted bicycles. Maximum speed: 25km/h or lower.

*6 Honda, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd., Suzuki Motor Corporation and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

*7 The Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, Inc. Organization (JASO) technical paper TP21003, the “Guideline For Swappable Batteries Of Electric Two Wheel Vehicles”

*8 Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium (SBMC) established for the purpose of achieving widespread adoption of electric motorcycles and other small-sized electric mobility products.

*9 A developer of software that transforms UX for mobility. Drivemode builds smarter, safer, connected driving technology for everyone on the road.

MotoGP: Mir Returning To Action At MotorLand Aragon

David Swarts

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September 13, 2022

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MotoGP: Mir Returning To Action At MotorLand Aragon

ARAGON AWAITS FOR SUZUKI SQUAD AS MIR RETURNS TO ACTION

Team Suzuki Ecstar will welcome Joan Mir back to the track this weekend in Spain as the rider continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

After suffering an extremely big crash on the opening lap of the Austrian Grand Prix on August 21st, Mir collected an injury to the talus bone and the ligaments of his right ankle. Following medical advice, Joan carried out 15 days of rest and recovery, missing the San Marino GP. Now, three weeks after the crash, the Mallorcan rider has consulted with Dr. Juan Garcías once again, and he feels ready to tentatively return to action.

Further medical checks will take place at the circuit ahead of the first sessions of the weekend, as is the standard protocol when a rider returns from injury, but Mir feels confident that he’ll be able to perform at a good level.

Motorland Aragón has long been a happy hunting ground for both GSX-RR riders, and Alex Rins is extremely keen to see what he can do around the Spanish circuit after taking a victory and a second place here in the 2020 double-header. It’s also somewhat of a home race for Rins, who has family in the region and spent a lot of time in the area as a child. Mir also has a great track record at Aragón, joining Rins on the podium twice in 2020, and grabbing third place last year.

Despite its somewhat remote location in the middle of the Spanish ‘desert’, Motorland is an ultra-modern facility which boasts everything needed to enjoy a weekend of thrilling motorsport in a culturally rich region. The tight and twisty track not only suits Suzuki, but also creates plenty of edge-of-the-seat action.

Alex Rins:

“This is kind of a home race for me because of my family connections to the region, and it’s always special to come here and enjoy the atmosphere of the crowd. The track itself is quite tight and technical, but it suits my style and our bike. I have lots of happy memories from the last few years, including my victory here in 2020, and I am more determined than ever to bring Suzuki, and myself, a top result this weekend.”

Joan Mir:

“I’m very glad to be able to come to Aragón. It hasn’t been easy to miss a race and watch on TV at home! Finally, I’ve recovered well from the injury to my ankle, and I think my fitness will be at about 90% this weekend, which isn’t bad. I have already been able to try riding a motorbike a little bit to check the feeling, and although I have a bit of pain now, I think by Friday I will feel even better. I can hold my weight on that ankle, but obviously riding a MotoGP bike is a bit different! Anyway, I want to fight and give my best.”

Livio Suppo – Team Manager:

“It will be really nice to have Joan back with us this weekend in Spain. It’s been tough for him to miss Misano, and I know he’s hungry to return. Luckily, it seems his ankle injury has healed well during this period of rest – all signs from the medics look positive, and Joan feels strong, so we’re keen for a good weekend all together. Both riders have had plenty of success here in the past, with Alex winning in 2020, so we’re ready to push hard to have Alex and Joan up the front.”

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Will Race At MotorLand Aragon

David Swarts

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September 13, 2022

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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Will Race At MotorLand Aragon

Marc Marquez returns to competition at Aragon GP

Having completed a fruitful two-day test in Misano and continued intensive training at home, Marquez and the Repsol Honda Team have set a date for his return: the Aragon Grand Prix.

110 days after he last raced a MotoGP machine at the Italian Grand Prix on May 29, Marc Marquez will return to competition at the Aragon Grand Prix. Since undergoing a successful fourth operation on his right humerus, the eight-time World Champion has followed the strict guidance of his medical team in order to facilitate a full recovery. After numerous check-ups, consultations and tests, all involved are satisfied with the recovery made and the #93 will now take the next step in his rehabilitation – returning to competition.

The objective for the weekend will be to continue improving Marquez’s bike fitness and assessing his performance during the intensity of a Grand Prix weekend and race. Born in Cervera, MotorLand Aragon can truly be considered a home circuit for Marquez and the home fans have always helped buoy his on-track performance.

MotoAmerica: More From New Jersey Motorsports Park

David Swarts

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September 12, 2022

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MotoAmerica: More From New Jersey Motorsports Park

KYLE WYMAN AND HARLEY-DAVIDSON FACTORY TEAM WIN MOTOAMERICA KING OF THE BAGGERS FINALE AT NEW JERSEY

Michael Barnes Finishes Third on Daytona H-D/Hoban Brothers Racing Road Glide

MILWAUKEE, WI (September 12, 2022) – Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle® factory rider Kyle Wyman led every lap to win the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers race on Sunday at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, N.J. Starting from the pole position on a race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycle, Wyman navigated a rain-soaked track to win by 0.655 seconds in the last race of the 2022 season. The victory was the third of the season for the defending King of the Baggers series champion. Tyler O’Hara finished second, followed by Michael Barnes on the Daytona Harley-Davidson/Hoban Brothers Racing Harley-Davidson Road Glide motorcycle. Wyman also won the three-lap Mission King of the Baggers Challenge race on Saturday for a clean sweep of the weekend.

Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle factory rider Travis Wyman led the King of the Baggers championship by three points coming into this final round. After qualifying second, Travis was in third place in the race when he crashed on the wet track and slid onto the grass. Travis managed to pick up his Harley-Davidson Road Glide motorcycle and re-entered the race with a ground off shifter peg and pivot, showing his grit and determination by finishing the race.

O’Hara ended the season at the top of the standings with 123 points. Travis Wyman finished second with 113 points, followed by Kyle Wyman with 111 points.

“I’m happy to have had another sweep of the weekend,” said Kyle Wyman. “I think this is the first time I’ve won a race in the rain. It’s bittersweet because Travis went down, but I’d rather have him pushing and try to win a championship than settle for third. I think we were all looking forward to a real showdown race on a dry track but anything can happen in racing. I want to thank all of our fans and everyone on the Harley-Davidson team for all of their hard work this season. I’m already looking forward to Daytona next year.”

King Of The Baggers race winner Kyle Wyman (center) stands atop the podium with race runner-up and 2022 Champion Tyler O'Hara (left) and Michael Barnes (right), the third-place finisher in the final race. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Harley-Davidson. — King Of The Baggers race winner Kyle Wyman (center) stands atop the podium with race runner-up and 2022 Champion Tyler O’Hara (left) and Michael Barnes (right), the third-place finisher in the final race. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Harley-Davidson.

For the season, Kyle Wyman won three races (Atlanta, Monterey and New Jersey) and had two other podium appearances. Travis Wyman had one race win (Road America) and finished second three times.

“I felt super strong this weekend and I gave it my all,” said Travis Wyman. “The conditions weren’t great, and when I got into third place and closed the gap to Tyler, I lost the front with no warning. Thankfully, I was able to pick it back up and finish the race to secure second place in the championship. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with my brother Kyle and the Harley-Davidson factory team to bring back the number one plate next year.”

The Mission King of the Baggers series features race-prepared American V-Twin touring motorcycles. Harley-Davidson® Factory Team Road Glide® motorcycles are powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engines.

MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Race Results – New Jersey

Kyle Wyman (H-D) Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson
Tyler O’Hara (Ind) Mission Foods/S&S Cycle
Michael Barnes (H-D) Daytona H-D/Hoban Brothers Racing
Jeremy McWilliams (Ind) Mission Foods/S&S Cycle
James Rispoli (H-D) Vance & Hines Racing
Bobby Fong (Ind) Roland Sands Design
Taylor Knapp (H-D) Vance & Hines Racing
Danny Eslick (H-D) Nowaskey Extreme Performance
Travis Wyman (H-D) Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson

2022 MotoAmerica King of the Baggers – Final Season Points

Tyler O’Hara (Ind) 123
Travis Wyman (H-D) 113
Kyle Wyman (H-D) 111
Jeremy McWilliams (Ind) 91
Bobby Fong (Ind) 70
James Rispoli (H-D) 70
Taylor Knapp (H-D) 61
Andrew Lee (H-D) 35
Frankie Garcia (Ind) 30
Michael Barnes (H-D) 29

More, from a press release issued by Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing:

Title for Corey whilst Travis bags another podium at NJMP in Stock 1000

Corey Alexander and Tytlers Cycle Racing powered by #RideHVMC are the 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champions.

Corey Alexander, the 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing.

Alexander, who finished fifth in the penultimate round of the series at New Jersey Motorsports Park, clinched the title with one round remaining. A strong qualifying ensured the #23 was in contention for the podium throughout the category’s single race at NJMP, but with spots of rain falling Corey played it safe, claiming fifth at the flag to clinch the crown.

The was further jubilation for the squad as Travis Wyman powered his BMW M1000 RR onto the podium in second, keeping the possibility of a 1-2 overall finish in the final standings a reality after a gutsy performance once again.

The team’s third rider Zac Schumacher finished just outside of the points scoring places in eighteenth.

With the championship in their maiden season secure, the result also gives BMW a US National title with the machine that has also made its debut in MotoAmerica this season – the BMW M1000 RR.

Corey Alexander (23). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing.

Corey Alexander: “I am delighted to clinch the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 title at NJMP after coming close to it the previous two years. This was the focus for the weekend and the culmination of a great team effort all season. I knew where I had to finish to take the crown but it would have been nice to have been on the podium but there will be other races where we can fight now that the title is secured. We had great pace all weekend and I am sure we could have fought with the front guys, but the plan was to play it smart. I am looking forward to riding at Barber without any pressure and I want to finish by thanking the entire team, all my sponsors and the fans that came out this weekend.”

Travis Wyman (10). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing.

Travis Wyman: “It was good race. I was leading in the first half and had a great fight for the win. I’m sitting third in points with a shot at second in the final round at Barber and so that is now the focus. Congratulations to Corey on the title – let’s end the year on the box.”

Zach Schumacher (90) leads Andrew Lee (14). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing. — Zac Schumacher (90) leads Andrew Lee (14). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing.

Zac Schumacher: “I made a decent start in the first part of the race, but the race was stopped because of the weather. In the restart I got boxed in at Turn 1 but was able to recover. I learned a lot riding in the damp conditions and had a good battle but in the end just missed the points. I am looking forward to the final round and hope to end the season in the points. I want to congratulate Corey and the team on their championship win!”

More, from a press release issued by Tytlers Cycle Racing:

PJ Jacobsen delivers Pole Position at NJMP, Hector Barbera salvages P4 on Sunday

The Tytlers Cycle Racing team had plenty to smile about in the penultimate round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.

The weekend started strongly with PJ Jacobsen at the sharp end on the opening day of on track action, whilst Hector Barbera was also in contention. For PJ, who was racing at home, the weekend got even better on Saturday morning as he shone in Q2 to secure a maiden Superbike Pole Position for himself, the team, and the all-new BMW M1000 RR.

A strong showing by both riders in Saturday’s opening encounter saw PJ cross the line in fifth, with Hector sixth.

Sunday’s race was a two-part affair after an initial red flag caused by a technical issue with Hector’s machine. Luckily, the team had enough time to repair the issue and both riders were able to line up for the restart.

Unfortunately, after a strong start that saw PJ inside the top three, he went down, thankfully without injury and as the rain began to fall, Hector found his rhythm, powering to fourth after showing great pace in the closing stages.

The duo remain in side the top six with one round and two races remaining at Barber Motorsports Park in two weeks.

PJ Jacobsen (66). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.

PJ Jacobsen: “I was a little disappointed with the result on Saturday, especially after the Pole Position. I was in the fight in part one and then in the second part I couldn’t repeat it. To not get the podium was a bitter pill to swallow after qualifying. Race 2 was difficult. I made an initial good start but made a mistake, hit the white line on lap two and went down. It was another Sunday disaster for me, and I don’t really know what to say other than let’s go to Barber and finish the year on a high. The only positive was the Pole Position, so let’s focus on the final round. I want to finish by thanking the team who did an awesome job this weekend.”

Hector Barbera (80). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.

Hector Barbera: “Race 1 was tough. I had a small issue with the rear brake and couldn’t use it which was a problem for me as I usually use it a lot. We were able to finish the race and so I played it safe and settled for the points. The team did an awesome job, and the bike was fast, and the setting was really nice, so it’s a shame we had that small issue. On Sunday it could have been a complete disaster but in the end, we were able to finish fourth in the rain and I am happy with the way I rode. My feeling with the bike is much better and we have valuable information for the final race. The team is working fantastic, and I want to thank them for everything.”

More, from a press release issued by Luke Power Racing:

2 x P8 keeps Luke in the top six of MotoAmerica Supersport in his debut year

Luke Power (68). Photo courtesy Luke Power Racing.

Luke Power raced to a double P8 in the latest round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport championship, consolidating his sixth position in the overall standings in the process.

Racing at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the first time presented a new challenge for the Aussie teenager, but after a steady FP1, big steps were made in Q1 and Q2 with Luke impressing once again as he took eighth on the grid, a second from Pole Position.

Running a strong sixth in the opening race, Luke was lucky to stay aboard after a near high side at Turn 4. He regrouped to finish eighth.

It was a similar story on Sunday for the Suzuki mounted #68, who after making a move for sixth into Turn 1 he ran off track dropping to thirteenth before a spirited and determined recovery ride saw him classified eight for the second consecutive day after the race was stopped because of rain. Interestingly, Luke’s pace when the rain initially began was as fast as the podium finishers, proving once again that he has the speed and natural talent to challenge for top honours each time he takes to the track.

Sitting sixth overall with one round and two races remaining in his debut season of MotoAmerica competition is impressive with Luke’s results catching the attention of many respected and influential paddock personalities both in the US and farther afield.

The final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica series takes place at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama in a fortnight.

Luke Power: “I have mixed emotions about Race 1, especially after the step we made in Q2. Unfortunately, I struggled early on and lost touch with the leading group. I was sitting P4 and almost high sided at turn four. I ran off the track and was able to close the gap to the guys I was racing with but just ran out of time to move up any higher than eighth. I am disappointed and frustrated with how Race 2 went. I was making progress, but I made a rookie mistake into Turn 1 and ran off the track. I lost a lot of time but got my head down and kept pushing. I made a good recovery and was happy with the way I was riding. When it started to rain, I was feeling really good and closing in on the top six but then the red flag came out. Despite the mistake I am happy with how I rode this weekend, and I am excited for the final round at Barber Motorsports Park in a fortnight.”

MotoAmerica: Herrin Riding Ducati Superbike At Barber

David Swarts

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September 12, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Herrin Riding Ducati Superbike At Barber

Josh Herrin, the newly crowned 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, will ride a Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 R Superbike at the 2022 MotoAmerica season finale September 23-25 at Barber Motorsports Park.

The announcement, however, came in a strange way.

Instead of making a big, separate announcement about Herrin racing in the MotoAmerica Superbike class at the finale, Ducati North America simply let the news out by including it in Herrin’s quote in its press release following MotoAmerica Supersport Race Two September 11 at New Jersey Motorsports Park.

In the press release, Herrin was quoted as saying: “I’m happy to go into Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama and have a chance to ride the Ducati Panigale V4 SBK, which will be a real treat.”

Racing in Superbike is nothing new to the Californian, as he did so for many years of his career and he won the 2013 AMA Pro Superbike Championship on a Yamaha. It will, however, be Herrin’s first time racing a Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike.

Herrin’s teammate Danilo Petrucci, meanwhile, will be trying to capture the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship on his Ducati Panigale V4 R at Barber Motorsports Park. He currently trails Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha’s Jake Gagne by four points.

MotoGP: Mooney VR46 Racing Team Re-Signs Marini For 2023

David Swarts

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September 12, 2022

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MotoGP: Mooney VR46 Racing Team Re-Signs Marini For 2023

LUCA MARINI AND MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM TOGETHER ALSO IN 2023

Constantly growing in the current season, the rider from Tavullia will still race on the Ducati Desmosedici GP. He will share the garage with Marco Bezzecchi who has signed a two-year contract in 2021

Tavullia (Italy), September 12th 2022 – The 2023 line up of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team that will race on the Ducati Desmosedici GP is completed with the signing of a new contract for the next year. In fact, Luca Marini will once again wear the yellow and black of the Tavullia Team in 2023. Alongside him, Marco Bezzecchi with a two-year agreement signed at the end of the last season for his debut in the Top class.

A confirmation, that of Luca, the result of the great work of the technical team, a stripe of positive results throughout the season and an incredible fast pace held in this second half of the Championship where he impressed everyone with three consecutive Top5s after the summer break. For the 25-year-old from Tavullia, rookie in MotoGP in 2021 and runner-up World Champion in Moto2 in 2020, a constant and continuous progression with ambitious goals for the future.

To Marco Bezzecchi, currently the best rookie and on the podium for the first time in the premier class at Assen last June, instead the other Ducati of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team as per the two-year contract valid from January 2022 for two seasons.

Luca Marini:

I am very happy to be able to announce the renewal with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team also for 2023. It is important to give continuity to this working group and to the Ducati project that is leading us to obtain good results and to fight for the podium in this final of season. We are a rookie team, it is the first year that we have all worked together, and we will continue to use this method to achieve great satisfactions already in this 2022 and in the future together with Vale, whom I thank for this opportunity, and the VR46 Riders Academy that always supports me. Closing the current season in the best possible way and restarting strong next January is the goal: we want to fight for the positions that matter, the podium and the victory in every GP and as the best Independent Team of the Championship.

Marco Bezzecchi:

I’m so happy to confirm and announce, at the same time, that the agreement I signed last year was for two years, so in 2023 I will continue riding for the Mooney VR46 Racing Team on the Ducati! I’m proud to wear and represent the colours of the VR46 family, Vale and the VR46 Riders Academy, that have been always supporting me, together with the Team and personal partners. The technical and mechanical staff group we created these years is full new, rookie in all of the aspects, with technicians coming from Moto2 and other with new roles, but we are completely satisfied with what we’ve achieving so far. We keep focus on this 2022 season, trying to finish this first year in MotoGP with the best result, before starting to face the next season.

Pablo Nieto, Team Manager:

I am very proud to say that Luca will stay another year with us in the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, thus completing the line-up for 2023 with Marco. As VR46 Riders Academy, he is one of the first riders we have supported taking him from CEV to MotoGP. Luca has always repaid us with important results, professionalism, dedication and great commitment. Always meticulous, taking care about details and capable of growing and making his entire work group grow in the first half of 2022. A choice of continuity with these two young riders, thanks also to the great support of Ducati and our partners, who for sure they will give us great satisfaction already from this season finale and then in the near future. Luca and Marco are impressing everyone and we are very proud of this all-Italian racing couple who will be a strong point of our Team for the second year in MotoGP.

British Superbike: Results From Race Two And Race Three At Snetterton

Uncategorized

David Swarts

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September 11, 2022

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British Superbike: Results From Race Two And Race Three At Snetterton

Editorial Note: American Julian Correa, riding his Microlise Cresswell Racing Honda, finished 14th in British Talent Cup Race Two Sunday at Snetterton.

BSB R2
BSB R3
BSB Points after R3

More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:

Ray relentless with first Bennetts BSB treble victory as Title Fighters decided at Snetterton

Bradley Ray (28). Photo courtesy Rich Energy OMG Racing Team.

Bradley Ray was relentless in pursuit of victory in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship round at Snetterton as the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha rider claimed his first hat trick of race wins to lead the standings by 13 points ahead of the Showdown.

Ray had secured the victory in yesterday’s eBay Sprint Race and carried his momentum into today’s action.

The Kent contender had been embroiled in a fight for the race two victory with defending champion Tarran Mackenzie and the pair fought to the finish.

Mackenzie had the lead on the final lap, but Ray was determined and a decisive saw him pass on the brakes into Brundle for the last time. The Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha rider then held off any counterattack to take the chequered flag 0.267s ahead of the McAMS Yamaha.

Tommy Bridewell had moved into third place during the early stages of the race and the Oxford Products Racing Ducati rider bounced back from yesterday’s disappointment to return to the podium.

The second race of the weekend confirmed the Showdown Title Fighter line up with first time appearances confirmed for Lee Jackson and Kyle Ryde, along with Rory Skinner who already had his place secure before Snetterton.

Ray continued his imperious form at the Norfolk circuit with a victory in race three.The Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha rider won by a reduced margin of 0.739s following a two-second long lap equivalent time penalty.

Mackenzie had taken the lead on the opening lap from Ray, but the double winner fought back to make a move on his McAMS Yamaha rival at Williams.

Ray maintained his position at the front of the field until lap five when Mackenzie emerged ahead with a move at Wilson when Ray ran deep into the corner.

Mackenzie then held the lead from Ray and Glenn Irwin before a BMW Safety Car intervention on lap 10 when Storm Stacey suffered a technical failure and the track conditions were subsequently assessed.

When the race resumed the leading three riders, Ray, Mackenzie and Glenn Irwin did not stay behind the BMW Safety Car at the point of the restart and were all later issued a two-second long lap equivalent time penalty. Mackenzie also received two penalty points on his judicial record.

Mackenzie lost the lead when Ray made a move into Brundle after the restart, and a lap later the defending champion got eased back another position as Glenn Irwin made a pass to move into second.

Mackenzie fought back with a move at Agostini to regain second place, but Ray had broken the chasing pair to cross the line ahead. The time penalty meant that Peter Hickman was elevated from fourth into second place ahead of Mackenzie, with Glenn Irwin finishing in fourth position.

Ray heads into the opening round of the Showdown at Oulton Park later this month (9/10/11 September) with the marginal edge over Jason O’Halloran as he bids for a return to the podium in Cheshire.

Reigning champion Mackenzie begins the final stage of his title defence in the Showdown from third in the standings – the exact same deficit he overcame from the start of the crucial final three rounds last year to secure the crown.

Glenn Irwin holds fourth place for Honda Racing UK just two points ahead of Showdown debutant Lee Jackson for the Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki team.

Kyle Ryde begins his first Title Fighter appearance just a single point adrift of his Kawasaki rival ahead of him in sixth in the standings, with a four-point advantage over Rory Skinner. Tommy Bridewell is just a single point down to complete the top eight title contenders.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Snetterton, Race 2:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha)
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) +0.267s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +7.201s
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +7.896s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +9.450s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +11.526s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +12.037s
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) +12.945s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +13.622s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +16.974s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Snetterton, Race 3 result:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha)
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.739s
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) +1.548s
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +1.945s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +2.422s
Leon Haslam (VisionTrack Kawasaki) +4.063s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +4.189s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +5.379s
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +6.590s
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) +6.656s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings ahead of the Showdown:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1061
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 1048
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) 1031
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 1016
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) 1014
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1013
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) 1009
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 1008

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Bradley Ray

Rich OMG Racing Yamaha

Treble winner and championship leader

“I am over the moon to have scored my first treble win – I have done a double but never three, so that feels really good.

“I knew I had to put the hammer down when I did get in front and that’s what I did. This was the perfect way to head into the Showdown. The bike was working unbelievable and feeling really good. I was riding on a wave of confidence and I’m super happy.

“I am speechless really and I’m looking forward to heading into the Showdown now with a little bit of a points advantage.”

MotoAmerica: SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup Race Two Results

David Swarts

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September 11, 2022

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MotoAmerica: SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup Race Two Results

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MotoAmerica: Mission King Of The Baggers Race Results From Rainy NJMP

David Swarts

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September 11, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Mission King Of The Baggers Race Results From Rainy NJMP

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MotoAmerica: Medallia Superbike Race Two Results From Rainy NJMP (Updated Again)

David Swarts

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September 11, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Medallia Superbike Race Two Results From Rainy NJMP (Updated Again)

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More, from a press release issued by MotoAmerica:

Rain Master Petrucci Tames The Conditions To Win In New Jersey

Petrucci Now Just Four Points Behind Gagne As The Series Heads To Barber Motorsports Park For Finale, September 23-25

Danilo Petrucci (9) leads Cameron Petersen (45), PJ Jacobsen (behind Petersen), Jake Gagne (1), Ashton Yates (22), Hayden Gillim (69), and Travis Wyman (10) early in MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

MILLVILLE, NJ (September 11, 2022) – Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Danilo Petrucci has been doing a rain dance all year, but it took until the ninth round of the 10-round 2022 MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship for his wish to come true. But when it did, he took full advantage.

Petrucci raced away in the rain at New Jersey Motorsports Park to score his fifth race win of the season and perhaps his most important. The win, combined with championship leader Jake Gagne’s third-place finish, moved the Italian to within four points of Gagne in the championship with just one round and two races left to run at Barber Motorsports Park, September 23-25

Heavy rain fell prior to the start of the 14-lap race at NJMP, leaving no doubt that the field would be using rain tires. There was also little doubt that Petrucci would be fast in the conditions as he came to the MotoAmerica with a reputation for being a rain master. And that he was. After slip sliding around for the duration and doing so more capably than the others, Petrucci crossed the line with 6.6 seconds in hand.

Second place went to Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz, the South African also impressive after charging through the field from behind after being relegated to the back of the grid after missing the sighting lap.

Gagne was a timid third, the defending MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion in the unenviable position of having little to gain and plenty to lose in the tricky conditions. Gagne stayed out of trouble and gained a spot late in the race when his teammate Cameron Petersen crashed out of his battle for second with Scholtz. Gagne could also breathe a bit easier when Ashton Yates crashed the Aftercare Hayes Scheibe Racing BMW with two laps to go while hounding the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing rider.

Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hector Barbera was fourth, some 25 seconds behind Gagne and four seconds ahead of Petersen with the South African remounting and riding his Yamaha to fifth without a left handlebar.

Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Jake Lewis was sixth with fellow Kentuckian Hayden Gillim seventh on the Disrupt Racing Suzuki. ADR Motorsports’ David Anthony, Triple M’s Jeremy Coffey and Altus Motorsports Brandon Paasch rounded out the top 10.

With two races remaining in the championship, Gagne leads Petrucci, 331-327. Petersen is third on 272 points, 17 points clear of Scholtz. Barbera strengthened his hold on fifth and now leads his teammate Jacobsen by 32 points.

Danilo Petrucci – Winner

“Yesterday maybe was the hardest race of the championship. Really, we struggled hard in this track. It’s so narrow, so bumpy, low level of grip. It’s the worst conditions for us. But I knew that this bike is working perfectly in the rain. I always like to ride under the rain. I just tried at the beginning of the race, I was not sure if the rain was coming or not, but it was so tricky to decide. I tried to make my pace, but without using too much rear tire. It was just enough because one lap more and we were in trouble. Not for winning the race, but for finish the race. I don’t know if it was shown on the camera, but I almost crashed three laps to go. I stayed in the track by I think one inch. I almost highsided. It was so tricky because at the end the rain was coming harder. Then whatever it will go, I’m so happy to bring the championship to the last race, even if I finish first or second because I’m so happy to bring all this excitement to this championship. I think it has been good whatever if I win or not to follow this championship and this fight to the end. I’m so happy to race here. For sure, today the rain was for us like water into the desert. I’m so happy. We go to Barber. I know the track. I had one day of test there in May. We will try.”

Mathew Scholtz – Second Place

“We had a seven-minute practice session before the race. We went out on wets (rain tires) and it was way too dry, so we ended up putting slicks on thinking it would be fine. Then it started raining harder as the pit lane opened up. So, we went back to wets because we saw everybody else was using them. So, we kind of missed the pit lane out to go and line up. Then, unfortunately, I had to start in the back of the grid, a couple rows back. So, that really hurt me coming through the pack on the first couple laps. These guys just gapped me, but I kept my head down and charged hard and managed to get up to second place. I felt like I could have had the pace to be with Danilo (Petrucci) up front, maybe if I could kind of hang onto them the first couple laps. But overall, starting from the back of the grid, I’ll take second place.”

Jake Gagne – Third Place

“It was tough. I just knew coming down to this thing I couldn’t throw it away. I wanted to be patient and take my time. I knew Danilo (Petrucci) would be fast. I knew Mat (Scholtz) would be fast. I knew Cam (Petersen) would be fast. So, it was tricky. This track is always really, really tricky in the wet. Every turn has a different feel, different amount of grip. Got off to a decent start and those guys kind of took off right away. I was kind of in that point where I’m like, ‘I just got to keep the thing up and not do anything stupid.’ Unfortunately, I saw Cam and Danilo was gone right away. He put the hammer down. Mat and Cam were battling hard ahead of me. Unfortunately, Cam fell down in that left-hander and then it got really tough at the end just to keep it upright once it kind of started raining again. But we’re up here on the podium. We brought it home on a tough day. We’re bringing this championship down close to the end. So, I’m excited about that.”

More, from a press release issued by Ducati North America:

Danilo Petrucci Claims a Vital Victory at New Jersey Motorsports Park

The Italian forces a final race showdown for the 2022 Medallia MotoAmerica Superbike Championship after a dramatic weekend in New Jersey

Danilo Petrucci (9) leads Cameron Petersen (45), PJ Jacobsen (66), Jake Gagne (1), Ashton Yates (22), Hayden Gillim (behind Yates), and Travis Wyman (10) early in MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Ducati North America.

Sunnyvale, Calif., September 11, 2022 – The determination of Danilo Petrucci (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC) showed through the pouring rain at New Jersey Motorsports Park as the Italian took a crucial victory to send the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship into a winner-take-all showdown at Barber Motorsports Park on September 23-25.

After coming home an upset fourth in race one, a race in which chief title rival Jake Gagne won to open a 13-point lead in the series, Petrucci dug deep and produced a stunning wet weather ride in race two, taking the victory and clawing back Gagne’s points advantage to just four with 50 to play for at Barber after the latter came home third on the factory Yamaha.

Two-time MotoGP race winner Petrucci will also have some help at Barber in the form of 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, Josh Herrin, who will step back up to the Superbike class on the second Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V4 SBK to give Petrucci as much help as possible as he aims to take an historic MotoAmerica Superbike Championship win for both himself and Ducati North America.

2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship Standing – Top 5

P1 – Jake Gagne (Yamaha) 331

P2 – Danilo Petrucci (Ducati) 327

P3 – Cameron Petersen (Yamaha) 272

P4 – Mathew Scholtz (Yamaha) 255

P5 – Hector Barbera (BMW) 173

Danilo Petrucci (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC – Ducati #9) : “I’m so happy to bring this first position home,” Petrucci said. “Yesterday, in race one, the target was to stay on the podium and I didn’t make it. That was one of the most challenging races of the season and we tried to fix the problem but didn’t find any solution. Fortunately, today, the rain came and it was nice to reach our maximum potential on our bike, which works perfectly in the wet. I’m so happy that we’ll bring this championship fight to the final race at Barber. We are trying to surprise and win, and keeping the championship alive in this fashion is a great feeling.”

More, from a press release issued by Westby Racing:

Scholtz Blitzes The Field, Finishes As Runner-Up In Sunday’s Superbike Race At New Jersey Motorsports Park

Mathew Scholtz (11) battled with Cameron Petersen (45) over second place in Superbike Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Westby Racing.

Millville, NJ – September 11, 2022 – Despite having to start at the back of the grid, Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz overtook a slew of riders in Sunday’s wet Superbike race two at New Jersey Motorsports Park and finished on the podium in the runner-up position.

Along with Mathew’s third-place result in Saturday’s race one, he has extended his podium streak at New Jersey Motorsports Park to eight consecutive races going back to 2019. He’s also tallied a total of 10 podium finishes so far this season.

Mathew was in 15th place on lap one, and with surgical precision, he sliced his way through the pack, overtaking the riders in front of him. On lap nine, he moved past Cam Petersen and held second place for two laps until Cam retook the position on lap 11. With two laps to go in the 14-lap race, Cam had a tipover, and Mathew moved back into second place, which is where he finished.

“We had a seven-minute practice session before the race. We went out on wets (rain tires), and it was way too dry, so we ended up putting slicks on, thinking it would be fine. Then, it started raining harder as the pit lane opened up. So, we went back to wets because we saw everybody else was using them. So, we kind of missed the pit lane out to go and line up. Then, unfortunately, I had to start at the back of the grid, a couple rows back. So, that really hurt me coming through the pack on the first couple laps. These guys just gapped me, but I kept my head down and charged hard and managed to get up to second place. I felt like I could have had the pace to be with Danilo (Petrucci) up front, maybe if I could kind of hang onto them the first couple laps. But overall, starting from the back of the grid, I’ll take second place.”

Mathew and the Westby Racing team will be back in action for the final round of the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, which takes place at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, on September 23 through 25.

MotoAmerica Superbike Standings

1. Jake Gagne – Yamaha – 331

2. Danilo Petrucci – Ducati – 327

3. Cameron Petersen – Yamaha – 272

4. Mathew Scholtz – Yamaha – 255

5. Hector Barbera – BMW – 173

For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, visit http://www.WestbyRacing.com

Also, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media sites.

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Gagne Scores Podium Finish in Tricky Race 2 at NJMP

Jake Gagne (1) leads Mathew Scholtz (11) during Superbike Race Two. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne returned to the podium with a third-place finish in a challenging MotoAmerica Superbike Race 2 at the New Jersey Motorsports Park. The reigning champion kept it on two wheels in mixed conditions to head into the season finale with a four-point advantage in the title fight. Cameron Petersen salvaged a top-five finish after a crash on the penultimate lap.

Before the second Superbike race of the weekend, the sky opened up over the 2.25-mile track in Millville, New Jersey, and it was declared a wet race. Gagne didn’t get the start he was hoping for and found himself fourth. He advanced to third on the second lap when the rider ahead went down, and then around the halfway mark, he was passed by fellow Yamaha rider Mathew Scholtz. In the final laps, the rain picked up again, catching many riders out, including his teammate. Gagne advanced to third, where he would comfortably finish, scoring some valuable points for his title defense.

After topping the timesheets in the morning warmup, Petersen got a good start and slotted into second behind his teammate’s championship rival. The South African was running a good pace, but on Lap 9, he found himself locked in another battle with Scholtz and was shuffled to fourth. As they approached three laps to go, Petersen made the pass for second, and the duo traded positions, with his countryman ultimately reclaiming the runner-up spot. Unfortunately, as the rain began to fall again in those final stages of the race, the tricky conditions proved challenging, and Petersen crashed on the penultimate lap. He rejoined the race in fourth and soldiered on with damage to his bike to secure fifth and preserve his third spot in the point standings.

The Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing team gets a weekend off before heading to Leeds, Alabama, for the MotoAmerica season finale at the Barber Motorsports Park on September 23-25.

Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“Things didn’t go quite as planned today. The weather was tricky and we missed on the setup thinking the rain would come harder later in the race. In hindsight, we should have gone further toward a dry setup. Jake rode well to finish third and collect points, keeping himself in the championship lead. Cameron had a bit more pace but unfortunately had a small crash while battling for second, and was fortunate to remount and salvage fifth. We look forward to battling for the championship at our season finale at Barber. It will come down to the last event and it will be exciting.”

Jake Gagne – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“Today’s race was tricky and slick with the rain, but I’m glad we were able to get on the podium. Thanks to the team for always giving me an awesome bike. We’re ready for the final showdown at Barber!”

Cameron Petersen – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“We were feeling good and having another good battle with Matty (Scholtz), and then, unfortunately, went down. I did what I could to get up as quick as possible and get back on track. It was definitely tricky out there, especially towards the end of the race. I’m not happy with how it ended, but we’re going to keep working and come back at Barber.”

Honda Introducing 10 Or More New Electric Motorcycles By 2025

September 13, 2022

Silhouettes of three of Honda's upcoming "FUN EV" electric motorcycle models. Image courtesy Honda.

Summary of Briefing on Honda Motorcycle Business

– Realizing Carbon Neutrality with a Primary Focus on Electrification –

September 13, 2022

Striving to realize carbon neutrality for all of its motorcycle products during the 2040s, as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business, Honda will accelerate electrification of its motorcycle models, while also continuing to advance ICE (internal combustion engines).

Honda plans to introduce 10 or more electric motorcycle models globally by 2025 and aims to increase annual sales of electric models to 1 million units within the next five years, and 3.5 million units (equivalent to 15% of total unit sales) as of 2030.

As the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, Honda will continue to lead the industry in this “era of carbon neutrality” by continuing to offer the “joy of riding” with its electric motorcycles and by offering products with new value by leveraging the high level of compatibility of software technology and electrified models.

Honda aims to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050. Today, Honda held a press briefing regarding its motorcycle business initiatives, presented by Kohei Takeuchi (Director, Executive Vice President and Representative Executive Officer) and Yoshishige Nomura (Managing Officer).

A summary of the briefing follows:

1. Approach toward carbon neutrality of motorcycle products

To accommodate a variety of uses and needs of customers around the world, Honda offers a wide range of motorcycle products, from small commuter models to large fun models, which are used globally in both emerging and advanced countries. In emerging nations, especially, there is high demand for motorcycles, mainly commuter models, as a lifeline of people in their everyday life; however, popularization of electric models faces challenges such as heavier vehicle weight and higher prices. Also, demand for electric models depends largely on government incentives, regulations and availability of charging infrastructure in each respective market.

Considering these circumstances, Honda will accelerate the electrification of motorcycles as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business, while also continuing to advance ICE, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality for all of its motorcycle products during the 2040s. Moreover, Honda will continue to lead the industry at the forefront of its environmental initiatives.

<Continued Initiatives to Advance ICE>

In order to realize carbon neutrality while accommodating the wide range of customer needs and usage environments unique to motorcycles, Honda continues its initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions from ICE models, while also developing models compatible with carbon neutral fuels such as gasoline-ethanol blends. To be more specific, in addition to Brazil where flex-fuel (E100)*1 motorcycle models are already available, Honda plans to introduce flex-fuel models in India, as well, one of the major motorcycle markets. The plan is to first introduce flex-fuel (E20) *1 models beginning in 2023, and flex-fuel (E100) models in 2025.

2. Electrification Initiatives

<Introducing electric motorcycle models to meet wide-ranging customer needs>

Anticipating market expansion, Honda will introduce electric motorcycles that accommodate a wide range of customer needs. Commuter models and fun models combined, Honda will introduce more than 10 new electric motorcycle models by 2025, with an aim to reach annual electric motorcycle sales of 1 million units within the next five years, and 3.5 million units (approximately 15% of total sales) as of 2030.

Details of product launch plans follow:

(1) Commuter EVs

As businesses are becoming more environmentally conscious, demand for business-use electric motorcycle models has been on the rise in recent years. To fulfill such demand, Honda has been offering the Honda e: Business Bike series models and accelerating the global launch of business-use electric motorcycles. In addition to providing a Honda e: Business Bike series model to Japan Post and Vietnam Post Corporation*2 for mail delivery, Honda is currently conducting joint trials with Thailand Post Company Limited*3, and planning to begin production and sales of the Benly e: in Thailand before the end of this month. These Honda e: Business Bike series models are equipped with Honda Mobile Power Pack (MPP) swappable batteries, which are well-suited to business use such as the delivery of small packages and resolve issues of range and charging time, which are key challenges that need to be addressed to realize widespread use of electric motorcycles.

For personal use, Honda plans to introduce two commuter EV models between 2024 and 2025 in Asia, Europe and Japan. Envisioning the future market environment, uses and technological advancements, Honda is exploring a range of future personal-use models including ones equipped with a power source besides swappable batteries.

(2) Commuter EMs*4 / EBs*5

Currently, EMs and EBs account for more than 90% of industry-wide global electric motorcycle unit sales (approximately 50 million units). In China, the world’s largest electric motorcycle market, EMs/EBs are widely adopted as a convenient form of everyday mobility, and Honda has been offering such products by leveraging its local supplier infrastructure and development/manufacturing operations. With the expectation that demand for EMs/EBs will be expanding globally, Honda plans to introduce a total of five compact and affordable EM and EB models between now and 2024 in Asia, Europe and Japan, in addition to China.

(3) FUN EVs

In addition to commuter EVs, Honda is actively developing electrified models in the “FUN” category. Based on its FUN EV platform currently under development, Honda plans to introduce a total of three large-size FUN EV models in Japan, the U.S and Europe between 2024 and 2025. Honda will also introduce Kids Fun EV model, designed to pass on the joy of riding to the next generation.

<High-efficiency “Monozukuri” that enables expansion of the electric model lineup and sales>

Based on its competitive “Monozukuri” (art of making things) know-how, amassed through the development and application of platforms for ICE-powered models, Honda will develop and apply electric motorcycle platforms that combine the three core components for electric vehicles – the battery, PCU and motor– with the motorcycle body.. By fulfilling customer needs with highly efficient Monozukuri, Honda will continue to offer the joy of mobility with affordably-priced electric motorcycle models.

Regarding the battery, a core component of electric vehicles, Honda aims to equip its electric motorcycle models with an all-solid-state battery Honda is currently developing by making active use of its own resources.

3. Smoother and Smarter Use of Electric Motorcycles

<Initiatives to enhance charging infrastructure and standardize batteries>

Enhancement of charging infrastructure and standardization of battery specifications are vital for the widespread adoption of electric motorcycles. As part of the enhancement of charging infrastructure, Honda is working toward popularization of battery sharing.

(1) Popularization of battery sharing

Honda has established a joint venture in Indonesia, one of the major motorcycle markets, to operate a battery sharing service utilizing MPPs and MPP-powered motorcycles. The JV is currently operating a battery sharing service in Bali.

In India, Honda is planning to begin its battery sharing service for electric tricycle taxis (so-called “rickshaws”) by the end of this year. Honda is also planning to expand its initiatives to popularize battery sharing to other Asian nations.

In Japan, in April of this year, ENEOS Holdings, Inc. and the four major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers*6 jointly incorporated Gachaco, Inc., which will provide a sharing service of standardized swappable batteries for electric motorcycles and develop infrastructure for this service. The company plans to begin its motorcycle battery sharing service this fall.

(2) Standardization of batteries

In Japan, four major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers have agreed on common specifications for swappable batteries based on the JASO TP21003*7 guideline.
Honda is working toward the standardization of swappable batteries while participating in a battery consortium in Europe*8 and working with a partner company in India.

<Strengthening of the areas of software technologies>

To increase the added value of its electric motorcycles, Honda is aiming to transform its business from a focus on non-recurring hardware (product) sales business to a recurring business model combining hardware and software.

In the area of software development, Honda is working with its software subsidiary, Drivemode*9, to enhance new value creation for its electric motorcycle products in the connected realm. Starting with the commuter EV model scheduled to go on sale in 2024, Honda will offer user experience (UX) features that continuously enrich the quality of riding through connectivity, such as offering optimal route options that take into consideration remaining range, charging spot notification, safe riding coaching and after-sales service support.

Looking ahead, Honda will work toward the establishment of a connected platform where greater value will be generated not only by connecting its motorcycles, but by linking a wide range of Honda products and realizing connectivity beyond their product domains.

*1 Gasoline-ethanol blend fuel. Various blend rates are available, from 100% gasoline to 100% ethanol. E100 is 100% ethanol, while E20 is 20% ethanol.

*2 Vietnamese postal service

*3 Thailand postal service

*4 Electric Moped category. Maximum speed: 25km/h – 50km/h

*5 Electric Bicycle category, not including electric-assisted bicycles. Maximum speed: 25km/h or lower.

*6 Honda, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd., Suzuki Motor Corporation and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

*7 The Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, Inc. Organization (JASO) technical paper TP21003, the “Guideline For Swappable Batteries Of Electric Two Wheel Vehicles”

*8 Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium (SBMC) established for the purpose of achieving widespread adoption of electric motorcycles and other small-sized electric mobility products.

*9 A developer of software that transforms UX for mobility. Drivemode builds smarter, safer, connected driving technology for everyone on the road.

MotoGP: Mir Returning To Action At MotorLand Aragon

September 13, 2022

Joan Mir (36). Photo courtesy Team Suzuki ECSTAR.

ARAGON AWAITS FOR SUZUKI SQUAD AS MIR RETURNS TO ACTION

Team Suzuki Ecstar will welcome Joan Mir back to the track this weekend in Spain as the rider continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

After suffering an extremely big crash on the opening lap of the Austrian Grand Prix on August 21st, Mir collected an injury to the talus bone and the ligaments of his right ankle. Following medical advice, Joan carried out 15 days of rest and recovery, missing the San Marino GP. Now, three weeks after the crash, the Mallorcan rider has consulted with Dr. Juan Garcías once again, and he feels ready to tentatively return to action.

Further medical checks will take place at the circuit ahead of the first sessions of the weekend, as is the standard protocol when a rider returns from injury, but Mir feels confident that he’ll be able to perform at a good level.

Motorland Aragón has long been a happy hunting ground for both GSX-RR riders, and Alex Rins is extremely keen to see what he can do around the Spanish circuit after taking a victory and a second place here in the 2020 double-header. It’s also somewhat of a home race for Rins, who has family in the region and spent a lot of time in the area as a child. Mir also has a great track record at Aragón, joining Rins on the podium twice in 2020, and grabbing third place last year.

Despite its somewhat remote location in the middle of the Spanish ‘desert’, Motorland is an ultra-modern facility which boasts everything needed to enjoy a weekend of thrilling motorsport in a culturally rich region. The tight and twisty track not only suits Suzuki, but also creates plenty of edge-of-the-seat action.

Alex Rins:

“This is kind of a home race for me because of my family connections to the region, and it’s always special to come here and enjoy the atmosphere of the crowd. The track itself is quite tight and technical, but it suits my style and our bike. I have lots of happy memories from the last few years, including my victory here in 2020, and I am more determined than ever to bring Suzuki, and myself, a top result this weekend.”

Joan Mir:

“I’m very glad to be able to come to Aragón. It hasn’t been easy to miss a race and watch on TV at home! Finally, I’ve recovered well from the injury to my ankle, and I think my fitness will be at about 90% this weekend, which isn’t bad. I have already been able to try riding a motorbike a little bit to check the feeling, and although I have a bit of pain now, I think by Friday I will feel even better. I can hold my weight on that ankle, but obviously riding a MotoGP bike is a bit different! Anyway, I want to fight and give my best.”

Livio Suppo – Team Manager:

“It will be really nice to have Joan back with us this weekend in Spain. It’s been tough for him to miss Misano, and I know he’s hungry to return. Luckily, it seems his ankle injury has healed well during this period of rest – all signs from the medics look positive, and Joan feels strong, so we’re keen for a good weekend all together. Both riders have had plenty of success here in the past, with Alex winning in 2020, so we’re ready to push hard to have Alex and Joan up the front.”

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Will Race At MotorLand Aragon

September 13, 2022

Marc Marquez (93). Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.

Marc Marquez returns to competition at Aragon GP

Having completed a fruitful two-day test in Misano and continued intensive training at home, Marquez and the Repsol Honda Team have set a date for his return: the Aragon Grand Prix.

110 days after he last raced a MotoGP machine at the Italian Grand Prix on May 29, Marc Marquez will return to competition at the Aragon Grand Prix. Since undergoing a successful fourth operation on his right humerus, the eight-time World Champion has followed the strict guidance of his medical team in order to facilitate a full recovery. After numerous check-ups, consultations and tests, all involved are satisfied with the recovery made and the #93 will now take the next step in his rehabilitation – returning to competition.

The objective for the weekend will be to continue improving Marquez’s bike fitness and assessing his performance during the intensity of a Grand Prix weekend and race. Born in Cervera, MotorLand Aragon can truly be considered a home circuit for Marquez and the home fans have always helped buoy his on-track performance.

MotoAmerica: More From New Jersey Motorsports Park

September 12, 2022

Kyle Wyman (1) and Tyler O'Hara (29) fight for the lead in the wet King Of The Baggers race. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Harley-Davidson.