2022 FIM MiniGP World Series Calendars Released

David Swarts

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April 14, 2022

2022 FIM MiniGP World Series Calendars Released

2022 FIM MiniGP World Series calendars announced

Thursday, 14 April 2022

The FIM MiniGP World Series began in 2021, culminating in an incredible first FIM MiniGP World Series Final at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, just ahead of the MotoGP™ season finale. In 2022, the series expands to include even more National Series, with a number of new countries joining up.

The 2021 Series; Alpe Adria, France, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Spain and the UK, are joined by Australia, Austria, India, Indonesia and Qatar this year. The top two riders from each will be invited to join the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series Final and, as in the inaugural year of the FIM MiniGP World Series, the winner of the World Final will, subject to minimum age and location/nationality, secure a spot in one of the Road To MotoGP™ programs on the next rung of their career ladder.

The calendars for each of the Series comprising the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series can now be announced, with competition underway in many already.

Please find (below) the details of each calendar as another exciting season on the Road to MotoGP™ gets underway!

FMWS_2022_Calendars_2022_04_12

Australian Superbike: Tasmanian Round Cancelled

David Swarts

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April 14, 2022

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Australian Superbike: Tasmanian Round Cancelled

ASBK In Tasmania Cancelled for 2022

The ASBK Management Team wishes to advise Teams and Fans of the cancellation of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) Round 6, scheduled to be held at Symmons Plains Raceway, Tasmania.

The cancellation is required due to a newly occurring national motorsport calendar shake-up affecting the Tasmanian round, including the announcement of WorldSBK returning to Phillip Island in November and a further International event landing on the weekend concerned. Additional complications include the recent late decision of Supercars to conduct the Adelaide 500 race in December, requiring a review of the backend of the 2022 calendar.

All of these recent changes occurring outside of ASBK or Motorcycling Australia’s control; unfortunate news for the Championship and its riders and fans alike.

The ASBK Management Team wishes to thank the Tasmanian Government for their continuing support and we look forward to the opportunity of returning in the future.

Finally, we take the opportunity to apologise to ASBK Teams, Riders & Fans for any inconvenience caused by the required decision.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to ASBK Round 3 at Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW on 22 – 24 April.

Historic Racebike Illustrations: AMA Superbikes Of The 1980s, In The April Issue

Trudy Ulrich

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April 14, 2022

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Historic Racebike Illustrations: AMA Superbikes Of The 1980s, In The April Issue

Featured In the April 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

Citing the need to reduce power and weight to avoid tire problems and solve safety issues related to top speed vs. run-off room, AMA Superbike officials decided to reduce engine displacement from 1025cc to 750cc for 1983.

The move set up an epic battle between Kawasaki’s air-cooled, two-valves-per-cylinder Inline-4 GPz750 and Honda’s liquid-cooled, four-valves-per-cylinder V-4 VF750F Interceptor. By the end of the season, the battle for the Championship came down to Wayne Rainey on the Kawasaki and Mike Baldwin on the Honda, with Rainey winning the title…

—Historic Racebike Illustrations: AMA Superbikes Of The 1980s, by Mick Ofield

It was a sea change in U.S. road racing—production-based Superbikes became the premier racing vehicles, and on those beasts a generation of American road racers prepared to conquer the Grand Prix world! Look back in detail at those fascinating “production” machines that were anything but “production” in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

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

PREVIEW the April 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!

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

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Roadracing World Young Guns 2022: David Kohlstaedt

David Swarts

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April 14, 2022

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Roadracing World Young Guns 2022: David Kohlstaedt

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

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

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

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (11 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

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

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

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

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

David Kohlstaedt

Age: 18.

Current home: Puyallup, Washington.

Current height/weight: 5’11”/130 pounds.

Current school grade level: 12^th grade.

Began riding at age: 4 years.

First road race: 2013, Shelton, Washington, WMRRA, 125GP, 3rd place.

Current racebikes: Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250, Kawasaki KX450.

Current tuner/mechanic: Dave Kohlstaedt (father).

Primary race series: RSD Super Hooligans, AFT Singles.

Top sponsors: Arai, 2 Fast Track Days, Vircos Leathers, Lightshoe, Bellevue Kawasaki, Incentive Solutions, KFG Motorsports, Öhlins, 2Wheel Dyno Works, Sammy Halbert Racing, Motion Pro, Vortex Racing, EBC, Umbrella Girls USA, Purveyors of Speed, Steve Huff Motorsports, DK29.com.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, finished 4^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (8 podium finishes), finished 3^rd in RSD Super Hooligan race at Laguna Seca; 2020 season, finished 6^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish was 4^th, twice), placed 2^nd in WMRRA Lightweight Superbike and 3^rd in WMRRA Lightweight Supersport and Formula Two Championships; 2019 season, placed 30^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish 11^th at Barber), won WMRRA Ultralightweight Superbike Championship (5 wins), placed 2^nd in WMRRA Formula Ultra 2 Championship (3 podiums in 4 races); 2018 season, placed 7^th in overall WMRRA Championship, won WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight SS Championship, finished 2^nd in WMRRA 500 Superbike and Ultra-Lightweight GP Championships, set WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight class lap record at The Ridge Motorsports Park, collected 2 top-20 finishes in MotoAmerica Junior Cup races while riding a Kawasaki Ninja 300; 2015 season, named AMA Youth Rider of the Year in Flat Track.

2022 racing goals: Finish on podium in RSD Super Hooligan and AFT Singles.

Racing career goal: Race in the MotoGP World Championship.

Racing heroes: Sammy Halbert, Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Barber Motorsports Park.

Favorite hobbies: Playing guitar, motocross, having fun.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Enjoying time with my family.

MotoE: Aegerter Wins Race Simulation At Jerez Test

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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MotoE: Aegerter Wins Race Simulation At Jerez Test

MotoE™️ Test: Aegerter wins race simulation on Day 3

The Swiss rider takes the spoils as drama hits for Torres and Granado, Garzo fastest overall

Wednesday, 13 April 2022

Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) won the race simulation in the third and final Day 3 session of FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup testing at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto. The Swiss rider crossed the line 1.6 seconds ahead of the returning Hector Garzo (Tech 3 E-Racing), with Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) rounding out the podium.

Eric Granado (LCR E-Team) crashed out at Turn 1 mid-race, and two-time Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40) suffered an issue that briefly forced him into pitlane.

After rain stopped play on Day 2, sunnier skies were a welcome sight on Wednesday and the field got two test sessions in before the race at the end of the day.

The fastest rider overall by the end of the test is Garzo, with the Tech 3 rider putting in a 1:48.458 to sit top of the pile. It’s close at the top though, with Aegerter just 0.022 back and Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE) only a further 0.025 in arrears.

Fourth fastest was Granado, with the Brazilian two tenths off Garzo by the end of action, with Miquel Pons making it both LCR machines in the top five. Casadei was sixth fastest rounded out by third in the race simulation. Hikari Okubo (Avant Ajo MotoE), Xavier Cardelus (Avintia Esponsorama Racing), Torres and the returning Bradley Smith (WithU GRT RNF MotoE™ Team) complete the top ten combined over days 1-2-3.

That’s a wrap on pre-season for MotoE™. Check out interviews with riders and test coverage on motogp.com, and then get ready for Round 1 at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España from the 29th of April to the 1st of May as MotoE™ goes racing!

RACE SIMULATION: TOP THREE

1 Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) – Energica – 16’26.261

2 Hector Garzo (Tech 3 E-Racing) – Energica – +1.601

3 Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) – Energica – +6.702

MotoGP COTA: Suzuki VIPs Celebrate 500th GP Podium

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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MotoGP COTA: Suzuki VIPs Celebrate 500th GP Podium

Suzuki Motor USA on Hand to Witness Suzuki’s Historic 500th Podium Milestone at US MotoGP

Austin, TX – Executives from Suzuki Motor USA were in attendance at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas to witness Team Suzuki ECSTAR’s Alex Rins claim second place in the MotoGP race, which marked Suzuki’s 500th podium in Grand Prix racing across all classes. This historic achievement comes after decades of Suzuki engineering and development, proving the performance of Suzuki motorcycles at all levels of world class roadracing.

With dozens of past Suzuki legends having contributed to the milestone, several were in attendance and gathered at the conclusion of the race to commemorate the significance of the 500th Suzuki podium.

“It was an honor for (Suzuki Motor USA, President) Mr. Haga and I to be able to be on hand and witness this historic achievement firsthand,” said Suzuki Vice President, Kerry Graeber. “Racing has always been at the core of Suzuki and seeing Alex on the podium this weekend, marking Suzuki’s 500th podium was truly special. The list of current and past legends that are part of Suzuki racing history is inspiring.”

The 2022 MotoGP championship continues at round five at the Grande Prémio Tissot de Portugal at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portugal on April 22-24, 2022. Team Suzuki ECSTAR riders Alex Rins and Joan Mir currently sit in 2nd and 4th place respectively in the 2022 MotoGP World Championship.

ABOUT SUZUKI

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

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

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

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

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

*Non-stop broadcasting on the Discovery platform scheduled

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

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

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

ESSENTIALS

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

When? 14-17 April 2022

Where? Bugatti Circuit, Le Mans, France

Track length: 4.185 kilometres

Race starts: 15h00 CET, Saturday 16 April

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24 HEURES MOTOS FAST FACTS

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

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

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

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

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

INTRODUCING THE DUNLOP SUPERSTOCK TROPHY

New for 2022, the Dunlop Superstock Trophy is a joint initiative from EWC promoter Discovery Sports Events, Dunlop and the promoters of the individual EWC races. It follows on from the appointment of Dunlop as the single tyre supplier to the Superstock (SST) category.

All teams are allocated the same number of tyres for each race and there are two choices of front compounds and two choices of rear compounds. A reward scheme exists with teams receiving free tyres based on their race result. For example, if a team is allocated 20 tyres and receives 15 tyres for winning the race, a bill for five tyres is issued.

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

Dunlop Superstock Trophy competitors are eligible for the FIM Endurance World Cup, which is contested at the 24 Heures Motos, 24H SPA EWC Motos and Bol d’Or. The Dunlop Independent Trophy, last awarded in 2021, is no more although teams competing without the support of a bike manufacturer in either Formula EWC or Superstock can still chase their own Independent Trophy.

Dunlop Superstock Trophy teams (in competition number order):

Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, Team 202, BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers, TRT27 Bazar 2 La Bécane, Team 33 Louit April Moto, JMA Racing – Action Bike, 3ART Best of Bike, RAC 41 ChromeBurner, No Limits Motor Team, National Motos, Players, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Pitlane Endurance – JP3, Énergie Endurance 91, Team LH Racing, ADSS97, Aviobike, Falcon Racing, Wójcik Racing Team STK

Independent Trophy teams (in competition number order):

Tati Team Beringer Racing, Team Bolliger Switzerland, Maco Racing, Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore, Team 202, BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers, TRT27 Bazar 2 La Bécane, Team 33 Louit April Moto, JMA Racing – Action Bike, 3ART Best of Bike, RAC 41 ChromeBurner, No Limits Motor Team, National Motos, Players, Motobox Kremer Racing, OG Motorsport by Sarazin, Wójcik Racing Team, Pitlane Endurance – JP3, Team LRP Poland, Énergie Endurance 91, Team LH Racing, Moto Ain, ADSS97, Aviobike, Falcon Racing, Viltaïs Racing Igol, Wójcik Racing Team STK

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2022?

A summary of some of the changes to the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship will be issued next week.

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

THE BIG NUMBER: 33

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

RIDERS SAID WHAT?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RECENT WINNERS

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

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

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

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

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

PROVISIONAL TIMETABLE

Key FIM EWC timings are as follows:

Thursday 14 April:

09h45-11h45: Free Practice

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

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

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

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

20h30-22h00: Night Practice

Friday 15 April:

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

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

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

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

12h45: Post-Qualifying digital press conference

Saturday 16 April:

09h00-09h45: Warm-up

15h00: Start of 45th 24 Heures Motos

Sunday 17 April:

15h00: Finish of 45th 24 Heures Motos

15h05: Podium

15h30: Post-race digital press conference

LIVE TIMING

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

FINAL ENTRY LIST

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

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

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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

The sun comes out and Rookies get serious in Portimão

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

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

Gustl Auinger rider coach

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

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

Dani Ribalta rider coach

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

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

Jacob Roulstone 17-year-old newcomer from Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

2022 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Calendar

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

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

May 28-29 – Races 5/6 Mugello, Italy

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

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

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

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

Entry List

2 Amaury Mizera FRA

5 Tatchakorn Buasri THA

8 Eddie O‘Shea GBR

9 Freddie Heinrich GER

10 Guillermo Moreno MEX

11 Ruché Moodley RSA

12 Jacob Roulstone AUS

14 Cormac Buchanan NZL

18 Angel Piqueras ESP

21 Demis Mihaila ITA

27 Rico Salmela FIN

28 Máximo Quiles ESP

29 Harrison Voight AUS

42 Soma Görbe HUN

48 Gabin Planques FRA

55 Alex Venturini ITA

57 Danial Shahril MAL

58 Luca Lunetta ITA

67 Casey O’Gorman GBR

69 Marcos Ruda ESP

77 Filippo Farioli ITA

78 Jakob Rosenthaler AUT

81 Lorenz Luciano BEL

93 Fadillah Aditama INA

95 Collin Veijer NED

99 José Rueda ESP

Court Decides Against Track Day Rider Who Sued Laguna Seca

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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Court Decides Against Track Day Rider Who Sued Laguna Seca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kim vs Monterey County Decision_16CV001236

MotoAmerica: Dunlop Will Remain Official Tire Through 2025

David Swarts

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April 13, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Dunlop Will Remain Official Tire Through 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About MotoAmerica

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

2022 FIM MiniGP World Series Calendars Released

April 14, 2022

Pablo Olivares-Rodriguez (46), Izan Rodriguez-Alvarez (44), Josh O'Brien (22, behind Rodriguez-Alvarez), Cristian Borrelli (24), and others battle for the lead of a MiniGP World Final race at Valencia. Rodriguez-Alvarez won every race Thursday and the inaugural MiniGP World Series Championship. Photo courtesy Dorna. — Pablo Olivares-Rodriguez (46), Izan Rodriguez-Alvarez (44), Josh O'Brien (22, behind Rodriguez-Alvarez), and Cristian Borrelli (24) battle for the lead of an FIM MiniGP World Final race at Valencia in 2021. Photo courtesy Dorna.

2022 FIM MiniGP World Series calendars announced

Thursday, 14 April 2022

The FIM MiniGP World Series began in 2021, culminating in an incredible first FIM MiniGP World Series Final at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, just ahead of the MotoGP™ season finale. In 2022, the series expands to include even more National Series, with a number of new countries joining up.

The 2021 Series; Alpe Adria, France, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Spain and the UK, are joined by Australia, Austria, India, Indonesia and Qatar this year. The top two riders from each will be invited to join the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series Final and, as in the inaugural year of the FIM MiniGP World Series, the winner of the World Final will, subject to minimum age and location/nationality, secure a spot in one of the Road To MotoGP™ programs on the next rung of their career ladder.

The calendars for each of the Series comprising the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series can now be announced, with competition underway in many already.

Please find (below) the details of each calendar as another exciting season on the Road to MotoGP™ gets underway!

FMWS_2022_Calendars_2022_04_12

Australian Superbike: Tasmanian Round Cancelled

April 14, 2022

The Australian Superbike Championship is heading to Tasmania in 2021. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK. — The 2022 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship will not be going to Tasmania in 2022. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK.

ASBK In Tasmania Cancelled for 2022

The ASBK Management Team wishes to advise Teams and Fans of the cancellation of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) Round 6, scheduled to be held at Symmons Plains Raceway, Tasmania.

The cancellation is required due to a newly occurring national motorsport calendar shake-up affecting the Tasmanian round, including the announcement of WorldSBK returning to Phillip Island in November and a further International event landing on the weekend concerned. Additional complications include the recent late decision of Supercars to conduct the Adelaide 500 race in December, requiring a review of the backend of the 2022 calendar.

All of these recent changes occurring outside of ASBK or Motorcycling Australia’s control; unfortunate news for the Championship and its riders and fans alike.

The ASBK Management Team wishes to thank the Tasmanian Government for their continuing support and we look forward to the opportunity of returning in the future.

Finally, we take the opportunity to apologise to ASBK Teams, Riders & Fans for any inconvenience caused by the required decision.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to ASBK Round 3 at Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW on 22 – 24 April.

Historic Racebike Illustrations: AMA Superbikes Of The 1980s, In The April Issue

April 14, 2022

Mike Baldwin (43) on a Honda V-4, four-valves-per-cylinder, liquid-cooled VF750F Interceptor leads Wayne Rainey (60) on an Inline-4, two-valves-per-cylinder, air-cooled Kawasaki GPz750 in the 1983 AMA Superbike race at Loudon, New Hampshire. Photo by John Owens.

Featured In the April 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

Citing the need to reduce power and weight to avoid tire problems and solve safety issues related to top speed vs. run-off room, AMA Superbike officials decided to reduce engine displacement from 1025cc to 750cc for 1983.

The move set up an epic battle between Kawasaki’s air-cooled, two-valves-per-cylinder Inline-4 GPz750 and Honda’s liquid-cooled, four-valves-per-cylinder V-4 VF750F Interceptor. By the end of the season, the battle for the Championship came down to Wayne Rainey on the Kawasaki and Mike Baldwin on the Honda, with Rainey winning the title…

—Historic Racebike Illustrations: AMA Superbikes Of The 1980s, by Mick Ofield

It was a sea change in U.S. road racing—production-based Superbikes became the premier racing vehicles, and on those beasts a generation of American road racers prepared to conquer the Grand Prix world! Look back in detail at those fascinating “production” machines that were anything but “production” in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

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

PREVIEW the April 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!

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

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Roadracing World Young Guns 2022: David Kohlstaedt

April 14, 2022

David Kohlstaedt (29). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

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

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

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

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (11 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

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

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

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

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

David Kohlstaedt

Age: 18.

Current home: Puyallup, Washington.

Current height/weight: 5’11”/130 pounds.

Current school grade level: 12^th grade.

Began riding at age: 4 years.

First road race: 2013, Shelton, Washington, WMRRA, 125GP, 3rd place.

Current racebikes: Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250, Kawasaki KX450.

Current tuner/mechanic: Dave Kohlstaedt (father).

Primary race series: RSD Super Hooligans, AFT Singles.

Top sponsors: Arai, 2 Fast Track Days, Vircos Leathers, Lightshoe, Bellevue Kawasaki, Incentive Solutions, KFG Motorsports, Öhlins, 2Wheel Dyno Works, Sammy Halbert Racing, Motion Pro, Vortex Racing, EBC, Umbrella Girls USA, Purveyors of Speed, Steve Huff Motorsports, DK29.com.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, finished 4^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (8 podium finishes), finished 3^rd in RSD Super Hooligan race at Laguna Seca; 2020 season, finished 6^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish was 4^th, twice), placed 2^nd in WMRRA Lightweight Superbike and 3^rd in WMRRA Lightweight Supersport and Formula Two Championships; 2019 season, placed 30^th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish 11^th at Barber), won WMRRA Ultralightweight Superbike Championship (5 wins), placed 2^nd in WMRRA Formula Ultra 2 Championship (3 podiums in 4 races); 2018 season, placed 7^th in overall WMRRA Championship, won WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight SS Championship, finished 2^nd in WMRRA 500 Superbike and Ultra-Lightweight GP Championships, set WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight class lap record at The Ridge Motorsports Park, collected 2 top-20 finishes in MotoAmerica Junior Cup races while riding a Kawasaki Ninja 300; 2015 season, named AMA Youth Rider of the Year in Flat Track.

2022 racing goals: Finish on podium in RSD Super Hooligan and AFT Singles.

Racing career goal: Race in the MotoGP World Championship.

Racing heroes: Sammy Halbert, Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Barber Motorsports Park.

Favorite hobbies: Playing guitar, motocross, having fun.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Enjoying time with my family.

MotoE: Aegerter Wins Race Simulation At Jerez Test

April 13, 2022

Dominique Aegerter (77) at Jerez. Photo courtesy Dorna.

MotoE™️ Test: Aegerter wins race simulation on Day 3

The Swiss rider takes the spoils as drama hits for Torres and Granado, Garzo fastest overall

Wednesday, 13 April 2022

Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) won the race simulation in the third and final Day 3 session of FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup testing at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto. The Swiss rider crossed the line 1.6 seconds ahead of the returning Hector Garzo (Tech 3 E-Racing), with Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) rounding out the podium.

Eric Granado (LCR E-Team) crashed out at Turn 1 mid-race, and two-time Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40) suffered an issue that briefly forced him into pitlane.

After rain stopped play on Day 2, sunnier skies were a welcome sight on Wednesday and the field got two test sessions in before the race at the end of the day.

The fastest rider overall by the end of the test is Garzo, with the Tech 3 rider putting in a 1:48.458 to sit top of the pile. It’s close at the top though, with Aegerter just 0.022 back and Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE) only a further 0.025 in arrears.

Fourth fastest was Granado, with the Brazilian two tenths off Garzo by the end of action, with Miquel Pons making it both LCR machines in the top five. Casadei was sixth fastest rounded out by third in the race simulation. Hikari Okubo (Avant Ajo MotoE), Xavier Cardelus (Avintia Esponsorama Racing), Torres and the returning Bradley Smith (WithU GRT RNF MotoE™ Team) complete the top ten combined over days 1-2-3.

That’s a wrap on pre-season for MotoE™. Check out interviews with riders and test coverage on motogp.com, and then get ready for Round 1 at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España from the 29th of April to the 1st of May as MotoE™ goes racing!

RACE SIMULATION: TOP THREE

1 Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) – Energica – 16’26.261

2 Hector Garzo (Tech 3 E-Racing) – Energica – +1.601

3 Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40) – Energica – +6.702

MotoGP COTA: Suzuki VIPs Celebrate 500th GP Podium

April 13, 2022

500 Grand Prix podiums for Suzuki! (Back row left to right) Ken Kawauchi, Loris Capirossi, Franco Uncini, Livio Suppo, Kerry Graeber – Vice President, Suzuki Motor USA, Masami Haga – President, Suzuki Motor USA, Alex Rins, Kevin Schwantz, Shinichi Sahara, Joan Mir, (kneeling from left) John Hopkins, Maverick Viñales, and (prone) Randy Mamola. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

Suzuki Motor USA on Hand to Witness Suzuki’s Historic 500th Podium Milestone at US MotoGP

Austin, TX – Executives from Suzuki Motor USA were in attendance at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas to witness Team Suzuki ECSTAR’s Alex Rins claim second place in the MotoGP race, which marked Suzuki’s 500th podium in Grand Prix racing across all classes. This historic achievement comes after decades of Suzuki engineering and development, proving the performance of Suzuki motorcycles at all levels of world class roadracing.

With dozens of past Suzuki legends having contributed to the milestone, several were in attendance and gathered at the conclusion of the race to commemorate the significance of the 500th Suzuki podium.

“It was an honor for (Suzuki Motor USA, President) Mr. Haga and I to be able to be on hand and witness this historic achievement firsthand,” said Suzuki Vice President, Kerry Graeber. “Racing has always been at the core of Suzuki and seeing Alex on the podium this weekend, marking Suzuki’s 500th podium was truly special. The list of current and past legends that are part of Suzuki racing history is inspiring.”

The 2022 MotoGP championship continues at round five at the Grande Prémio Tissot de Portugal at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portugal on April 22-24, 2022. Team Suzuki ECSTAR riders Alex Rins and Joan Mir currently sit in 2nd and 4th place respectively in the 2022 MotoGP World Championship.

ABOUT SUZUKI

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

World Endurance: 24 Hours Of Le Mans Starts Thursday

April 13, 2022

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