Herrin And Ducati Closing In On MotoAmerica Superbike Title As The Finale Beckons In New Jersey

September 26, 2024

Josh Herrin Has A Big Points Lead As He Tries To Win AMA Superbike Title #2 At NJMP, September 27-29

If all goes according to plan for the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team in the MotoAmerica series finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park, September 27-29, Josh Herrin will win his second AMA Superbike Championship – 11 years after winning his first – and Ducati will win its third AMA Superbike title as a manufacturer – 30 years after its last.

And all that will add up to an historic and memorable season for those wearing red.

But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, there are still two races remaining in the Steel Commander Superbike Championship chase and it’s not over until it is.

Herrin heads to the Garden State with a whopping 46-point lead in the Steel Commander Superbike Championship. If he finishes race one at NJMP with a lead of 25 points or more, the title will be his. If that doesn’t happen in race one, he has it to do all over again in race two. Unless he somehow trips over himself, the title will be Herrin’s and he will join MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey, four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson and the late Wes Cooley as two-time winners of the title. Twenty-two different riders have won AMA Superbike Championships in the 48 years of the series.

One thing that’s certain, Herrin won’t be tiptoeing around in eighth or ninth place to win this championship. He’ll fight at the front, much like he did two weeks earlier at Circuit of The Americas, and that’s going to make it entertaining for those of us who get to sit back and watch.

Herrin got to the comfortable position he’s in by winning five races and finishing on the podium in seven races that he didn’t win. He was off the podium a total of six times in 18 races. He also took full advantage of the races his title rival Cameron Beaubier was forced to miss due to injury, winning race two at Road Atlanta and finishing second twice at Brainerd International Raceway in Beaubier’s absence. He also didn’t allow himself to give up early in the season when he had just one podium finish in the first three rounds (six races) with Beaubier winning three of those. Herrin plugged away and it all came together with four wins in the final eight races with the other four resulting in podium finishes.

The bottom line: Herrin had a really good season and even his rivals will tell you that he deserves the championship.

Beaubier, meanwhile, can only think back with a big “what-if.” Lots of the top men crashed out of Superbike race one at Road America in the pouring rain, but only Beaubier suffered injury. His broken heel required surgery with a screw going up through the bottom of his foot to hold things in place. He missed three races, came back a bit too early at Ridge Motorsports Park, but then finished with a flurry of three wins, three seconds and a third on his Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW M 1000 RR. But it likely won’t be enough.

If it’s any consolation (and it’s not), Beaubier is on tap to finish second in the championship as he leads Wrench Motorcycles’ Bobby Fong by 41 points heading to NJMP.

Fong’s early and mid-season were strong, highlighted by his two victories at Brainerd International Raceway, but things have gone sour of late, and Fong hasn’t been on the podium since race two at Ridge Motorsports Park at the end of June. Case in point: Fong scored 21 points in the three races at COTA while Beaubier earned 70 points to take over the runner-up spot in the points chase.

Fong will need two strong races at NJMP to hold off EasyHealthPlans.com/TopPro Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly for third in the championship with Kelly coming off his career-best weekend of racing with his first-ever MotoAmerica Superbike win coming in race two at COTA. The Floridian is only five points behind Fong.

Surprisingly, you have to go back to fifth and sixth before you find any Attack Performance/Progressive/Yamaha Racing YZF-R1s with Cameron Petersen and Jake Gagne in those spots heading into the finale. Even though there has been a myriad of struggles of late, this is still Petersen’s best season of Superbike racing as he does have a career high of three wins on the year.

Three-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne has had a season of disappointments with arm-pump issues basically ruining his year. He somehow soldiered on through most of the season before finally calling it quits the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course round. At COTA, Xavi Forés filled in for Gagne, and the Spaniard will do the same at NJMP.

Gagne is in a tie for sixth with Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Loris Baz so the Frenchman will surely move up with a chance to also catch Petersen. Baz has two podiums on the season and is still chasing a first-career MotoAmerica Superbike victory.

Beaubier’s teammate JD Beach will likely finish where he is now – eighth in the championship – in his first season back in MotoAmerica and his first season on the team and its BMW M1000 RR. Beach is coming off a strong weekend at COTA with two fourth-place finishes and a fifth.

Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Brandon Paasch will also likely wrap up his season in ninth in the championship, 29 points ahead of what promises to be a real battle in the season finale for 10^th and the MotoAmerica Superbike Cup title which pays the winner $25,000.

Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates and Team Brazil’s Danilo Lewis are just four points apart in the fight for 10^th in the Superbike standings, but Lewis holds a 10-point lead over Yates in the battle for the money and the Superbike Cup title. Yates has put on a charge with five Superbike Cup wins in a row heading into NJMP.

Pre-NJMP Notes…

Unless he somehow trips over himself, Josh Herrin will join MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey, four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson and the late Wes Cooley as two-time winners of the title. Twenty-two different riders have won AMA Superbike Championships in the 48 years of the series.

The man who owns the most AMA Superbike titles is Mat Mladin with seven and the Australian will be on hand at New Jersey Motorsports Park as MotoAmerica’s Grand Marshal. Coincidentally, Mladin had his last race 15 years ago… at NJMP.

The active MotoAmerica rider with the most AMA Superbike titles is Cameron Beaubier with five championships. With his two wins at COTA two weeks ago, Beaubier now has 65 career AMA Superbike wins, which puts him second and 17 victories behind Mladin’s leading 82 wins.

Jake Gagne was already crowned as the 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion when the series rolled into NJMP for the finale a season ago. Gagne went out and won the first race on Saturday in the rain for his 40^thcareer AMA Superbike victory. and rode to a cautious fourth in the wet race two. Gagne beat JD Beach and Corey Alexander in race one with Beach winning race two over PJ Jacobsen and Alexander.

PJ Jacobsen earned pole position for the two Steel Commander Superbike races last year with his lap of 1:20.647. Jake Gagne and Mathew Scholtz rounded out the front row. The lap record is a 1:19.806, which is held by Cameron Beaubier and dates back to 2020.

With NJMP getting a complete repave in the off-season, lap records will likely be scorched this coming weekend.

With his win at COTA, Sean Dylan Kelly became the third rider in the MotoAmerica era to win a Superbike race in his rookie season, joining Toni Elias (2016) and Danilo Petrucci (2022). Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier also won in his rookie season of AMA Superbike racing in 2014, but that was pre-MotoAmerica.

For more news check out our dedicated MotoAmerica News page MotoAmerica News

Or visit the official MotoAmerica website motoamerica.com/

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of motoamerica.com/

Who’s Ready For An All-Out War In Battle For Mission King Of The Baggers Supremacy?

Frank Duggan

September 26, 2024

Will It Be Harley’s Kyle Wyman Or Indian’s Troy Herfoss As The Title Chase Goes To The Wire At New Jersey Motorsports Park, September 27-29?

There’s nothing better than a championship fight going to the final round. In boxing and motorcycle racing. And that’s exactly what we have in the Mission King Of The Baggers series as rival heavyweights racing for rival manufacturers will go to the start line in race one at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Saturday separated by just two points. Can you say winner-take-all? Times two.

With the championship likely not to be clinched after the first of two races on Saturday at NJMP, we’re almost guaranteed that this brawl will go the distance – the full nine rounds and 18 races.

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s Kyle Wyman is atop the standings by those precious two points heading to what is his home track in Millville. Wyman has logged six wins on the year and 12 total podiums to S&S/Indian Motorcycle’s Troy Herfoss and his six wins and 13 total podiums.

The difference between the two is in the non-podium finishes. Wyman’s worst result is an eighth-place finish in race two at Brainerd International Raceway. Herfoss, meanwhile, crashed and remounted to finish 11^th in race one at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Even though Wyman has a zillion laps around NJMP to Herfoss’ zero laps, the Australian has proven to be a quick study as his rookie season has been full of racetracks he’s never seen before. The fact that the notoriously bumpy NJMP has been resurfaced could help equalize things as local knowledge of the bumps is usually more important than knowledge of the grip. And the bumps are reportedly gone.

Wyman and Herfoss have owned the series as evidenced by their 100-point lead over defending series champion Hayden Gillim and his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson. Gillim has three race wins on his scorecard, but “only” five total podiums. The Kentuckian would like nothing better than to insert himself into the battle and come away with a win or two in the finale.

Tyler O’Hara is 15 points behind Gillim and could prove to be a factor in helping his teammate Herfoss win the title, though the same could be said for Wyman’s teammate James Rispoli, who sits sixth and just four points behind Gillim’s teammate Rocco Landers, who rides the momentum of winning his first-career Mission King Of The Baggers race at COTA two weeks ago.

In winning race one at COTA, Landers became the fourth different winner in the class, joining Wyman (six wins), Herfoss (six wins), and Gillim (3 wins). The win was 19-year-old Landers’ 53^rd MotoAmerica victory and he’s now won races in four different classes – Mission King Of The Baggers, Supersport, BellissiMoto Twins Cup, and Junior Cup.

Supersport – Scholtz On The Verge

Strack Racing’s Mathew Scholtz hasn’t won the number-one plate in the Supersport Championship yet, but he’s got a firm grasp on it as he heads to NJMP with a 39-point advantage over Rahal Ducati Moto’s PJ Jacobsen, who will need to keep that total under 25 points in race one or his shot at the title will be gone before the lights go out in race two.

Scholtz has gotten this far via eight wins and 14 total podiums in 16 races. Jacobsen is in the fight because of his six wins and 12 total podiums. The difference is in the crashes. Scholtz crashed out of race one at Circuit of The Americas two weeks ago and that was his only blunder. Jacobsen has crashed out of two races, the first he got an assist from Scholtz, the second was in race two at COTA with no one to blame but himself.

So here we are. The pair that controlled the championship from day one goes into the final round separated by 39 points. One is in a comfortable position, the other needs a miracle.

The battle for third in the title chase is a close one with Altus Motorsports’ Jake Lewis leading N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto’s Blake Davis by 12 points with Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Tyler Scott a further eight points adrift.

Lewis and Scott each have a victory this season with Davis yet to win a Supersport race. Lewis got to where he is with consistency that has seen him score points in every single round. No one else in the top 10 can make that claim.

The second season of the revised Supersport “Next Generation” rules continues to show parity as four different manufacturers are in the top 10 in the championship and three of those – Yamaha, Ducati and Suzuki – have won races.

Stock 1000 – Gillim Vs. Uribe

There hasn’t been a Stock 1000 race since July 12 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. In the meantime, Real Steel Motorsports’ Hayden Gillim has been racing to try and defend his Mission King Of The Baggers Championship while racing his Honda CBR1000RR-R SP in select Superbike races. Heck, he’s even suffered an injured hand that required surgery in the time since he last did battle in Stock 1000.

Gillim will go up against OrangeCat Racing’s Jayson Uribe in the series finale with the two just seven points apart. Unless Uribe has been club racing since July, he hasn’t even laid eyes on his BMW M 1000 RR in almost four months.

Those two have won all the races bar one with Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates winning race two at Laguna Seca. Hayden leads the way with five wins to Uribe’s two victories. Gillim, however, crashed out of race two at Brainerd International Raceway and that’s how Uribe, who has scored points in every race, is this close.

Yates is third, 39 points behind Gillim and eight points clear of FLO4LAW Racing’s Benjamin Smith with BPR Racing’s Bryce Prince just six points adrift of Smith.

Junior Cup – The Last Dance

Sunday’s race two of the Junior Cup class will mark the end of the series as the MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes over in 2025.

That means that Matthew Chapin will be the last Junior Cup Champion as the BARTCON Racing-backed rider from Maryland wrapped up the title at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in August.

Chapin will start the series finale as the favorite, based on his six wins in 10 starts and an unbeatable 62-point lead over his nearest competition, New York Safety Track Racing’s Yandel Medina.

Speed Demon Racing’s Logan Gunnison sits third in the title chase headed to NJMP, 19 points behind Medina and 19 ahead of Fernandez Racing’s Jayden Fernandez. The only real championship battle is the one for fourth with Fernandez, BARTCON Racing’s Eli Block, Wolfe Racing’s Ryan Wolfe, BPM’s Isaac Woodworth, Karns Performance Racing’s Levin Badie and Bad Boys Racing’s Ella Dreher all separated by just 14 points.

Pre-NJMP Support Class Notes…

Tyler Scott and Josh Hayes split wins in the Supersport class at New Jersey Motorsports Park in last year’s season finale. Scott topped Anthony Mazziotto and Kayla Yaakov in race one with Hayes beating Mazziotto and Jake Lewis in race two.

Fortunately for Xavi Forés, the Spaniard had already wrapped up the Supersport Championship by the time the series got to NJMP. In the two races, Forés scored just seven points. Left without a ride for 2024, Forés has been filling in for injured riders. This weekend in New Jersey, he will be riding the injured Jake Gagne’s Attack Performance/Progressive/Yamaha Racing YZF-R1 in the Steel Commander Superbike races.

Last year’s Mission King Of The Baggers finale at NJMP was a drama-filled couple of races with Hayden Gillimcoming out of it all with the series championship via his first- and second-place finishes. Gillim won race one over James Rispoli and Travis Wyman with Kyle Wyman taking victory in race two over Gillim and Max Flinders. Kyle Wyman lost any hope of the title when he crashed his Harley-Davidson on the warm-up lap prior to the start of Saturday’s race one.

Avery Dreher was another who was fortunate to not need the points from the series finale to earn him the Junior Cup Championship. Dreher had a miserable weekend and scored just a single point, but he’d already wrapped up the title. Eli Block won both races, besting Jayden Fernandez and Logan Monk in race one before topping Levin Badie and Yandel Medina in race two.

For more info checkout our dedicated MotoAmerica Support Series News page motoamerica-support-series-latest-news/

Or visit the official MotoAmerica website motoamerica.com/

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of motoamerica.com/

AIROH: the versatility of Commander 2 in the service of the motorcycling world

Frank Duggan

September 26, 2024

One helmet, three configurations, endless adventures. Commander 2, AIROH’s best seller, is the dual helmet designed to meet the needs of adventure and moto touring lovers.

The different settings of Commander 2 allow it to be flawless in any situation, a unique versatility combined with an attractive design, further enriched in the Full Carbon 6K version.

AIROH redefines the rules of two-wheeled travel with Commander 2, a versatile helmet able to meet the needs of those who experience motorcycling in different forms, both on and off road.

With ECE 2206 approval, this AIROH helmet offers three possible configurations: on/off, complete with peak and visor for road adventures, long trips and daily commutes; naked without peak, for higher speeds; off road, without visor, and suitable for off-road use, with goggles.

Three configurations, with distinctive and design features, that show the greatest attention paid by AIROH to detail and the different facets – and needs – of motorcycling. From the 2024 collection, Commander 2 is also available in the prestigious Full Carbon 6K version, alongside the equally popular Composite Carbon version enriched with many elegant graphics and colors. The outer shell is available in three different sizes to better meet the various needs in terms of fit and cranial conformities (available in sizes from XS to XXXL).

Commander 2 is renewed, compared to its much-loved predecessor, in technical details such as the number of shells, increased from two to three, and the noble materials used. In addition to the introduction of the ASN (AIROH Sliding Net) and AEFR (AIROH Emergency Fast Release) systems to guarantee greater safety. Also updated in the predisposition for the insertion of Bluetooth communication systems.

Commander 2 offers an Extra Wide field of vision with a hand operated visor with three possible opening positions, and a comfortable integrated Sun Screen Visor, whose drive mechanism has been updated. Not to forget the visor locking system with the A³S system (AIROH Automatic Antifog System). The ventilation system and inner linings have also been revised, softer and more breathable, for superior comfort. A Pinlock® 120 XLT Max Vision is included.

Retail price starting from 439.99 euros

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Homologation: ECE 2206
Material: Full Carbon 6K or Composite Carbon
Weight: from 1390 g ±50 g (only for Carbon version), from 1440 g ±50 g (Composite Carbon version)
Shells and Sizes: 3 (XS – S | M – L | XL – XXL – XXXL)
Retention System: DD Ring
Ventilation: Upper vents, chin guard vent
Visor: Extra-wide vision, UV and Scratch resistant, Integrated Sun Visor, Lock System, and A³S (Airoh Automatic Antifog System) anti-fog system
Inner linings: Coolmax^®, Superior Performance Technical Textiles, 2DRY – Microsense – Sanitized Treatments. Removable, washable, and hypoallergenic
Technologies: ASN (AIROH Sliding Net) and AEFR (AIROH Emergency Fast Release)
Communication System Ready
Inside in the box: double Stop Wind (winter and summer), Pinlock^® 120 XLT Max Vision, action cam support for both naked and enduro versions, naked taps, MX covers

For more information about AIROH: https://www.airoh.com/

Experience the NEW BSB ride Sim Challenge at Motorcycle Live 2024

Frank Duggan

September 26, 2024

Get ready for an all-new, adrenaline-fuelled experience at this year’s AMPLIFIED Motorcycle Live.

In an exciting new addition, MCL24 will feature the ‘BSB ride Sim Challenge’, an immersive race simulation allowing visitors to set their fastest time around Donington Park for the chance to win money-can’t–buy-prizes – including two VIP tickets courtesy of Pata Prometeon Yamaha World Superbike Team.

This unique FREE experience will give fans the thrill of high-speed racing as they tackle the Donington track aboard a superbike mounted on advanced racing simulators (also used by professional racers for training). With multiple races a day – visitors can race against each other in the UK’s first-ever simulator race grid.

British Superbike fans will be pleased to hear that attending riders on BSB Day on Sunday 17th November will be encouraged to jump aboard the simulator themselves for some fun, but there’s no doubt there will be an element of competition across the field to be top of the leaderboard.

James Whitham shared his excitement about the new attraction and being back at the show: “I’m really looking forward to seeing the new race simulator. They’re the real deal, used by some of the top-level pros for training. I might even get on there myself to see how I measure up and see if some of the old magic is still there!”

The BSB ride Sim Challenge is just one of the highlights at MCL24, held from 16-24 November at the NEC, Birmingham. The recently-announced Festival Zone will find its home in Hall 4, featuring jaw-dropping freestyle MX stunts, Moto Trials and a diverse range of street food vendors will be providing the refreshments. And that’s not all, the ‘Expert Lab’, fronted by TV personality Grace Webb, will host a packed schedule of engaging, informative and entertaining sessions so visitors can walk away with new insights, a fresh perspective, or a newly sparked passion.

Tickets are on sale now at www.motorcyclelive.co.uk – and they’re currently frozen at last year’s prices – so book now.

36 nations invited to Spain for the Rookies Cup Selection Event

Frank Duggan

September 26, 2024

The start of the 2025 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup racing season is half a year away but next week sees the Selection Event for our 19th championship.

Over three days at Guadix in Southern Spain, the best of the world’s aspiring road racers have the chance to show the skills that could see them invited to join the Rookies Cup in 2025.

Roughly half of the riders will be on track on Monday, the second half on Tuesday. Some will be invited to ride again on Wednesday after which the Selection Committee will draw up the list of riders invited to join the Cup for the 2025 season.

120 teens have been invited from 36 nations around the world, from New Zealand to Denmark, Japan to Brazil, South Africa to Kyrgyzstan. The global reach of the Rookies Cup has seen 252 riders from 39 nations compete in the 224 races to date.

Over 50% of ex Rookies have gone on to Grand Prix where they have won 216 GPs and have made 656 podium appearances.

As the teenagers with Rookie aspirations head to Guadix, half a world and 13,000 kilometres away, the Indonesian Grand Prix starts in Mandalika with ex Rookies leading all 3 World Championships.

MotoGP – 1st Jorge Martín (Class of 2014) – 3rd Enea Bastianini (Class of 2013)
Moto2 – 1st Ai Ogura (Class of 2017) – 3rd Joe Roberts (Class of 2013)
Moto3 – 1st David Alonso (Class of 2021) – Ex Rookies fill the top 7 places

Invited Riders

Leonardo Abruzzo (Italy)
Aslan Admuz (Israel)
Luca Agostinelli (Vietnam)
Alessandro Davide Aguilar Carballo (Peru)
Julius Ahrenkiel-Frellsen (Denmark)
Afonso Almeida (Portugal)
Pau Alsina Sanchez (Spain)
Michele Amadori (Italy)
Emanuele Andrenacci (Italy)
Marc-antoine Audard (France)
Ggionata Barbagallo (Italy)
Jakub Belak (Poland)
Enzo Bellon (France)
Edoardo Bertola (Italy)
Alessandro Binder (Switzerland)
Travis Borg (Malta)
Cristian Borrelli (Italy)
Lucie Boudesseul (France)
Evan Boxberger (France)
Peter Brinton (Great Britain)
Lucas Brown (Great Britain)
Josephine Bruno (Italy)
Fernando Bujosa Garcia (Spain)
Benjamin Caillet (France)
Carlos Cano Tortosa (Spain)
Valentino Casalboni (Italy)
Yvonne Cerpa (Spain)
Sarthak Chavan (India)
Omri Chen (Israel)
Julian Correa (USA)
David Da Costa (France)
Ryder Davis (USA)
Nyo De Vits (Belgium)
Andoni Dominguez (Nicaragua)
Johann Emmanuel (India)
Alberto Enríquez (Ecuador)
Beñat Fernandez (Spain)
Alejandra Fernández Garcia (Spain)
Ferre Fleerackers (Belgium)
Haydn Fordyce (New Zealand)
Ryan Frost (Great Britain)
Matteo Gabarrini (Italy)
Ignacio Maximo Galan Bermejo (Spain)
Martim Garcia (Portugal)
Johnny Garness (Great Britain)
Luana Giuliani (Italy)
David Gonzalez (Spain)
Dylan Grobler (South Africa)
Eduardo Gutiérrez Cobo (Spain)
Lorenzo Guyau (France)
Farish Hafiy (Malaysia)
Rikki Henry (Australia)
Uriel Hidalgo Mimbrero (Spain)
Richard Irmscher (Germany)
Mueez Jassat (South Africa)
Rosa Jimenez Vargas (Spain)
Yaroslav Karpushin (Kyrgyzstan)
Tobias Kitzbichler (Austria)
Daniel Krabacher (Austria)
Edoardo Liguori (Italy)
Alex Longarela Montes (Spain)
Luis Miguel Lopez (Spain)
Jhon Alex Lopez Castañeda (Colombia)
Marcos Ludeña Navarro (Spain)
Harrison Mackay (Great Britain)
Carolina Manzano Afonso (Spain)
Kerman Martinez (Venezuela)
Hodei Martínez (Spain)
Matteo Masili (Italy)
Konstantinos Mavropoulos (Greece)
Scott McPhee (Great Britain)
Erik Michielon (Italy)
Henri Mignot (France)
Elisabetta Monti (Italy)
Antoine Nativi (France)
Raúl Navarrete Vico (Spain)
Nikola Nikolaev (Bulgaria)
Marianos Nikolis (Australia)
Dawid Nowak (Poland)
Fionn O Connell (Ireland)
Pablo Olivares Rodriguez (Spain)
Louis Papelard (France)
Daniel Paz Gimenez (Spain)
Gonzalo Perez Alvarez (Spain)
Oratilwe Phiri (South Africa)
Levin Quentin Phommara (Switzerland)
Fabio Pilato (France)
Jimmy Primaut (France)
Gaétan Prunier (France)
Martim Marco Ramos Reis (Portugal)
Joshua Raymond Jr (USA)
Ethan Keneth Reyes Martínez (Mexico)
Juan Francisco Risueño Hernandez (Spain)
Cayden Robert (South Africa)
Tom Rolin (Belgium)
Matteo Roman (France)
Matthias Rostagni (France)
Jai Russo (Australia)
Levi Russo (Australia)
Mario Salles (Brazil)
Gonzalo Sanchez Melendez (Spain)
Remy Sanjuan (France)
Ikegami Seiryu (Japan)
Jesse James Shedden (USA)
Mantas Siugzdinis (Lithuania)
Valentino Sponga (Italy)
Filip Surowiak (Great Britain)
Riichi Takahira (Japan)
Mathias Tamburini (Italy)
Gabriel Tesini (San Marino)
Jesús Torres (Spain)
Ryan van Nieuwkerk (South Africa)
Tibor Erik Varga (Hungary)
Finnan Wherity (Ireland)
Krzelj William (France)
Peter Willis (Great Britain)
Jeremiasz Wojciechowski (Poland)
Joshua Wood (USA)
Jose Emiliano Zamudio Nieto (Mexico)
Nicolas Zanin (Czech Republic)

Indian Grand Prix to return in 2026

Frank Duggan

September 26, 2024

The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports confirm that the Indian Grand Prix will be included on the 2026 FIM MotoGP™️ calendar, moving to become a reserve event for 2025.
Operational circumstances have obliged the event to be delayed from its initial slot near the start of the 2025 calendar. With no available dates towards the end of the season, MotoGP™️ will therefore return to India in the early stages of 2026.
Both MotoGP™️ and InvestUP are working hard to bring MotoGP™️ back to Buddh International Circuit with a world-class event, and are committed to confirming India as a destination for global sporting events.
Our collaboration with InvestUP to bring MotoGP™️ back to India continues to lay fantastic foundations for the future and MotoGP™️ looks forward to racing in front of our incredible Indian fans as soon as possible.

Bemsee: Round 7, Brands Hatch

Kerrie McFadden

September 25, 2024

Though a number of championships had been sewn up heading into the British Motorcycle
Racing Club’s final round of 2024, there were still a number of champions to be crowned at
the season finale.

Both the ACU Team Green Junior Cup and the Kawasaki Senior Ninja Series were still to be
decided, with just a solitary point splitting Phil Atkinson and Ben Brown in the senior series.
And despite Atkinson qualifying on pole, Brown got off to the better start and took the class
win in race one, with Atkinson second in class, the pair sixth and seventh overall. From there, though, Atkinson was untouchable in the Senior class and took three victories –
with a best of second overall – to secure the 2024 title.

In the Junior Cup there were 61 points separating Luca Wilkinson and Ollie Sims, with Kade
Watt just 10 points further adrift in third. But with such a healthy advantage Wilkinson didn’t need to put everything on the line. He was part of an eight rider train fighting for third overall, that crossed the line in race one with just over a second covering the lot of them. He took the flag just behind his title rivals, but only sacrificed two points to Sims, while the race win was taken by junior runner Henry McCartney.

Wilkinson’s fifth in class in race two was enough to clinch the championship, as he finished
one spot ahead of Sims in sixth in class, while McCartney took another overall victory.
On Sunday Watt at least ended the season on a high, taking both overall and class victories. Wilkinson was second in the first race and finished his season with sixth overall in the final race of the year.

Though the DART Motorsport championship was still to be decided, with a 94-point
advantage coming into the weekend Anthony Johnson was always a shoe-in for the crown,
and with four second place finishes over the weekend he lifted the 2024 trophy. On all four
occasions he crossed the line behind Fenton Seabright aboard his FHS Racing Yamaha.
With two class wins from the four races Aaron Monk had his name etched onto the Clubman 600 trophy.

James Lord overturned a 22-point deficit in the Rookie 600s to clinch the title at the final
round of the year by 10 points. Aaron Hickmott arrived holding the series lead, but without a single visit to the podium at Brands to Lord’s two seconds and two thirds, the championship trophy went the way of Lord.

Josh Wainwright picked up another Reactive Parts MRO Powerbikes title, after winning the
2022 championship, with a trio of victories on his JW MOT Centre Honda. He beat another
former class champion, Peter Baker, to the 2024 gong.

Kieran Smith won the final race of the season, and with it his second Retro 1000 race win of the weekend, the other two going to Jamie Thomas. Morgan Creasey took three Clubman wins, after Clinton Wood took the spoils in the opener.

In the Rookie championship Dan Chamberlain arrived at Brands Hatch with an 81-point lead, before doing his best to give up the championship to his closest rival, Ben Wood. Two DNFs on Saturday and two wins for Wood saw that lead slashed by 50 points, but a win in race three and a second in race four gave him the championship win.

Despite arriving with a five-point deficit in the BMCRC Formula 400 standings, Andrew Gill
overturned Kade Watt’s advantage to win this year’s title. David Lindemann won all four
races over the weekend, but Gill’s three thirds and a fourth were enough to pull himself back to the top of the points table when it counted.

Watt did collect the Sub-64bhp championship, doing enough to hold off Steve Rapa.
David Twyford took his win tally to 11 for the season to win the MRO Minitwin
Championship. Twyford was just one of three riders to win a race in the class this season,
with Darren Dowds finishing the year on nine and David Lindemann eight, after taking two
wins at the season finale. However, after beating Dowds in every race – including a Dowds
DNF in race one – Twyford secured the title.

The Thunderbike Sport title had already been awarded to Matt Wetherell, and he finished his year with two wins at Brands Hatch. The other victories went to Adam Carson and Josh
Harvey. The Thunderbike Extreme class, too, was also settled, with David May the victor. At Brands Hatch, Mark Biswell and Shaun Wallis took two wins each.

However, the Thunderbike Ultra class was still to be decided, but two third and two seconds
gave Morgan Creasey the title, while all four of the weekend’s wins went to Kieran Smith.
The ever-growing Supertwin class ended its maiden season with Craig Cowton as
champion, despite the fact Cowton only managed a best of eighth over the weekend. He
finished behind title rival Malvern May in three of the four races, but May was unable to
collect enough points to overhaul Cowton in the title chase. At the pointy end Fenton
Seabright took three wins after Max Hardy won the weekend’s opener.

Both of the club’s F1 and F2 Sidecar championships were already decided ahead of the final
round. Kevin Cable and Charlie Richardson won twice on Saturday in the F1 class, with Paul
and Tom Kirby and Andy Peach and Ken Edwards winning a race each on Sunday. In the F2
class Ross Buchanan and Adam Evans took a hat trick of wins, before Mark Hegarty and
Alex Ludlow took the spoils in the final race of the year.
After dominating the DFDS Yamaha Past Masters championship in 2024 Kevin Wholey
converted pole into four victories, taking his season’s tally to a whopping 26.

Bemsee now concludes its 2024 season, however details on the 2025 are available on their website : Here

Words: James Sharpe

Photography: Rachel Bourne

All on the line in Lombok: more twists and turns await MotoGP at Mandalika

Frank Duggan

September 25, 2024

In the aftermath of a dramatic Emilia-Romagna GP, we’re heading for Indonesia and a whole new challenge – with the title fight finely poised.

There’s no time to catch your breath as we head from Misano to Lombok and the very different Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, with 24 points in it at the top and plenty more on offer. Indonesia loves MotoGP™ and they’re about to get a show, with controversial moves, swinging momentum and plenty more already having proved the calling card of the last few rounds. So here we go!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) now has that 24-point cushion at the top, and that part of the result on Sunday – the positive – may have more time to sink in on the journey to Lombok. He may have lost the race and in a way he thought was over the line, but his blunder in the flag-to-flag in the previous event has been nearly erased in the standings as reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) made his own error at Misano this time round. It could be a fascinating one at Mandalika, which already has some pivotal history for both etched into its memory: last year, Martin took the points lead on Saturday and then crashed out on Sunday, just as a Bagnaia under pressure made a historic charge to the win from P13 on the grid. The duo will doubtless be protagonists this weekend.

Then there’s Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). One man’s perpetrator of that “over-the-line” move is another man’s last lap hero. He’s got less experience at full fitness at Mandalika so he’ll want to catch up quick, but Misano – even knowing his 100% MotoGP™ podium record at the venue – again proved that a better qualifying for the ‘Beast’ nearly always guarantees he’ll be a serious thread come Sunday, and/or before. Can he keep the momentum going a little stronger than he did after his double at Silverstone?

In the ever-changing scuffle over third overall, meanwhile, Bastianini has pulled back ahead of Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) but by one single point. Marquez took another podium to follow up two wins on the bounce with some consistent form, but he’ll want more pure pace this time out rather than a luck of the draw. He’s not won here – yet? – and like Bastianini, has less experience of the venue at full fitness. And, of course, none on a Ducati.

THE CHASE IS ON
Meanwhile, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team duo head from their home turf to that of Pertamina this weekend – no pressure. Fabio Di Giannantonio remains just ahead in the standings despite his injury struggles, sizeable crash in Emilia-Romagna, and then tyre pressure AND Long Lap penalties, so the goal will be clear for him: just a little less drama. Marco Bezzecchi, meanwhile, is closing in and now right behind Diggia as he builds a solid run of speed and results, including a front row for San Marino and a top four in the GP last time out. How will they shuffle in Indonesia?

Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) had a tougher second outing at Misano – having been right up there first time round and taken his first Sprint podium – so moving back forward will be the aim. Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP) will be hoping for more at a fresh track, in his case. After fighting for the podium at Aragon, it didn’t seem to click at Misano – but he will have the added challenge of only having taken taken part in one session at Mandalika in 2023 as he withdrew to recover from an earlier crash.

MORE MORE MORE
At KTM and GASGAS, Misano teased more than it ultimately delivered. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) qualified fourth for Emilia-Romagna and took a solid result in the Sprint, but behind rookie Pedro Acosta at Red Bull GASGAS Tech3. Then on Sunday, both ended up crashing out from pretty solid top fives, if not a chance at better, so they’ll want to try and bounce back. Teammates next year, the two are already playing some cat and mouse in the standings, and in who’s got what once the lights go out. Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) had a tougher time on pace but took points, and now his future is revealed he’ll want to settle into a rhythm to push forward as we head for the flyaways. Augusto Fernandez at Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 is the same for the latter but we await confirmation on the former as rumours continue to hint at a new role with a new factory.

For Aprilia, the tougher run continued somewhat last time out, but it was a definite uptick as Maverick Viñales took sixth and teammate Aleix Espargaro eighth. Miguel Oliveira has been in their postcode too, with his Trackhouse Racing teammate Raul Fernandez now the rider looking to figure out a step forward. Last season Viñales put Aprilia on the podium in second so the Noale factory will hope that previous form has a say in our return in 2024. Oliveira, having taken the first ever MotoGP™ win at the venue in 2022, will hope the same.

ON THE UP
At Yamaha, there’s been plenty to celebrate for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) across the two events at Misano as he made it into back-to-back Q2s for the first time this season. He then took two sevenths in the GP races – equalling his and Yamaha’s best result of the season so far from Portugal. Heartbreakingly in Emilia-Romagna though, it was set to be fifth before he seemingly ran out of fuel. That would have also made Yamaha the second factory home on Sunday. He’s the only rider to never been off the podium at Mandalika and took his most recent podium at the venue in 2023. His most recent pole was also here, in 2022.

Teammate Alex Rins, meanwhile, was sidelined last time out through illness so he’ll want to attack for points as he returns. It will be interesting to watch Yamaha take on a venue with particular conditions and where they’ve not had lots of recent track time – but neither have their rivals. Quartararo’s form of late promises any small weakness from the rest will be exploited.

Honda also had some key positives from Emilia-Romagna. After both Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) and home hero teammate Luca Marini were forced to sit out the San Marino GP, take two was especially notable. Mir took P11, equalling Honda’s best result this season so far taken by Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) in Aragon, and Marini wasn’t far off him in twelfth. Flashes of progress have shown throughout, with Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) also having taken Honda straight into Q2 not long ago, and they’ll want to double down. Like Yamaha, it will be interesting to see where they shuffle in as track time and experience at the venue drop from testing and two race weekends to a return to Mandalika.

Indonesia’s passion for MotoGP™ is legendary and we’ll feel it again as early as Wednesday as many on the grid head to Mataram for a fan parade through the city. Then it’s back in business for another stunning weekend as the title fight teases even more drama on turf that’s hosted plenty of it before.

SHOWTIME
Saturday
Tissot Sprint: 15:00 (UTC +8)
Sunday
Grand Prix: 15:00 (UTC +8)

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

Moto2: Can Ogura’s title chase momentum be halted in Indonesia?

Frank Duggan

September 25, 2024

A Moto2™ belter played out at the Emilia-Romagna GP as three different riders led on the final lap.

The one who was in front when it mattered most was Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) as the Italian picked Aron Canet’s Fantic Racing-shaped pocket by 0.027s, as we saw Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) throw away a golden victory ticket after a mistake at Turn 14.

The trio treated us to a phenomenal battle, and it was a pair of results that kept Vietti and Canet in with an outside shout at still challenging for the title. For Arbolino, that’s three podiums in the last three races as the 2023 runner-up finds form heading into the closing stages of the campaign.

Touching back on the Championship, following a P4 at Misano, Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) has taken charge of the 2024 chase. 22 points is the gap the Japanese rider holds heading to Indonesia after teammate Sergio Garcia crashed, while his three other closest pre-race rivals – Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing), Alonso Lopez (MB Conveyors SpeedUp) and Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) – all failed to beat the #79. In Dixon’s case, he too suffered a DNF – his first non-score since the French GP.

A repeat of their 2023 Indonesian GP podiums for Aldeguer and Canet will go down a treat this weekend, as we head to Asia with the Moto2™ title race still wide open. The momentum pendulum sits in Ogura’s camp, but will that change this weekend?

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

Moto3: Can the chasers respond or will Alonso continue his 2024 surge?

Frank Duggan

September 25, 2024

After going two races without standing on the podium, David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) returned to the top step at the Emilia-Romagna GP to win for the eighth time in 2024.

The gap at the top heading to Lombok? A whopping 82 points. Positions in the Championship don’t get much stronger with six rounds to go, so it’s now or never for the chasers at the circuit Alonso finished P2 at in 2023.

The first of those hunters is Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), who will be hungry for a rostrum return after track limits caught the Spaniard out on the last lap. It was a small error that cost Holgado a podium – and promoted Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) to P3 behind the incredibly impressive rookie, Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing).

The Dutch star is just one point further back in the overall standings after picking up his seventh podium of the season, but for Holgado, Veijer and fifth place Emilia-Romagna GP finisher Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI), it’s all about taking as many points off Alonso as possible before it’s too late.

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

New Bosch radar-based assistance system used for first time by KTM

Frank Duggan

September 25, 2024

Thanks to Bosch, motorcyclists can now feel even safer in the saddle: the technology company has unveiled six new radar-based assistance systems, including five world-firsts. According to Bosch Accident Research, these could help prevent not just one in seven, like earlier systems, but as many as one in six accidents on German roads alone.

New Bosch Radar-based Assistance System Used For First Time By Ktm — ABS 10

Bosch already revolutionized the motorcycle market back in 2020 with its support functions for motorcyclists. Of the six new assistance functions, four will be unveiled in a new model from leading European motorbike manufacturer KTM in November 2024 and are set to enter production in 2025. “Bosch’s declared aim is to make motorcycling even safer and more comfortable by employing innovative new technologies – without diminishing riding enjoyment,” says Geoff Liersch, head of Two-Wheeler & Powersports at Bosch.

“The new functions mark yet another step in this direction, and we’re delighted to have KTM as a customer.” The manufacturer will incorporate the four Bosch rider assistance functions that use front radar. This is not the first time Bosch and KTM have worked together: in 2013, the two companies collaborated on the successful launch of the MSC motorcycle stability control system.

“We’re very satisfied with the longstanding collaborative relationship between our development teams, and we’re excited that KTM is the first to put these new functions to use,” says Stefan Haist, Lead KTM Chassis Control System – Street Development.

Bosch assistance systems provide more support on two wheels

Adaptive cruise control – stop and go (ACC S&G)

For two-wheelers, traffic jams can be strenuous as well as dangerous. Riders have to constantly apply the clutch, use the brakes, and then start moving again. To make this task easier, Bosch launched ACC adaptive cruise control back in 2020. Once the desired speed has been set, this system constantly matches the vehicle’s speed to the flow of traffic while maintaining the necessary safe distance from the vehicle in front. Bosch has now taken this technology to a new level to offer increased riding comfort with its new ACC S&G function, which can bring the motorcycle to a controlled standstill in order to support the motorcyclist. This works best with an automatic transmission such as the one used in KTM’s new bike, which will be the first to incorporate this new function. If their motorcycle comes to a halt, there is no need for riders to use the clutch; they can set their bike in motion simply by pressing a button or briefly activating the throttle as soon as the vehicle in front starts moving.

Group ride assist (GRA)

Group riding in a staggered formation is popular among motorcyclists, though it can be challenging with ACC, because the function expects the motorcycles riding in front to be in the middle of the lane. GRA is a useful addition to ACC; using an algorithm, it detects when a group is riding in a staggered formation and regulates the speed to automatically maintain the same distance from the motorcycles in front. In this way, the function assists riders in achieving a natural group formation. When not riding in groups, the GRA system works the same as ACC.

Riding distance assist (RDA)

When traffic is flowing smoothly and RDA is activated, it helps maintain an appropriate distance from vehicles in front and thus prevent rear-end collisions. With ACC, a desired speed must be set; but when RDA is activated, the motorcycle can be controlled as normal via the throttle grip. While riding, the system automatically reduces the vehicle’s acceleration or applies the brakes as and when required. Riders can set the desired distance from the vehicle in front beforehand. If they wish, they can also use a switch to deactivate the function or apply the throttle to override the deceleration generated by the RDA system. This enables the function to blend naturally and comfortably into the dynamic flow of riding.

Emergency brake assist (EBA)

Hazardous situations on the road require not only a rapid response but, in many cases, emergency braking. Every second counts when it comes to preventing collisions and avoiding potentially serious consequences. EBA is triggered when the system detects a risk of collision and the rider doesn’t brake hard enough. In this case, the function actively increases the wheel brake pressure further to reduce the bike’s speed as quickly as possible.

Rear distance warning (RDW)

Even in a car, it can be hard to keep a constant eye on traffic approaching from behind; but on a motorcycle, it requires an extra level of concentration.

RDW monitors the situation behind the rider and flashes a warning on the display if another vehicle gets too close. Based on this warning, the rider can take mitigating action to prevent a rear-end collision.

Rear collision warning (RCW)

RCW warns vehicles behind the motorcycle when a rear-end collision is imminent, for example by activating the hazard warning lights. In this way, the function protects motorcyclists from accidents caused by having to brake unexpectedly or by a vehicle failing to see them – whether waiting at traffic lights, sitting in a traffic jam, or riding in free-flowing traffic.

These new functions supplement Bosch’s worldwide portfolio of radar-based assistance systems, thus expanding the “sensory world” of the motorcycle. In addition to basic safety features, increasing importance is also being given to convenience and experience features that focus on the motorcycle and take real-life riding situations into consideration – functions that ensure not only safety and convenience, but also unmatched riding enjoyment.

Husqvarna Mobility excited to announce updated Pro enduro models for 2025

Frank Duggan

September 25, 2024

Competition-focused TE 300 Pro and FE 350 Pro machines equipped with race-tested components for maximum performance.

Husqvarna Mobility is pleased to reveal its exciting Pro enduro models for 2025 – the 2-stroke TE 300 Pro and the 4-stroke FE 350 Pro. Each machine is equipped with performance-enhancing Technical Accessories, which ensure aspiring racers can compete with confidence, knowing that their machinery provides them with a competitive edge.

Expertly assembled around a compliant and perfectly balanced chassis, the new Pro enduro machines are technically refined for 2025 to deliver improved aesthetics and handling. The grey, ergonomic bodywork from 2024 is replaced with traditional white plastics with a grey rear fender introduced to distinguish the range. Aboard the Pro models, riders can take advantage of the updated WP XACT Closed Cartridge forks with a new, adjustable spring preloaded base valve offering precise high-speed compression damping.

The WP forks retain their mid-valve piston for the smoothest possible action and consistent performance. In addition, a hydro-stop aids and maintains forward momentum after heavy landings. The proven WP XACT rear shock is easily adjustable by hand to ensure that all riders can create a personalised suspension set-up.

An advanced Engine Management System (EMS) ensures that both the TE 300 Pro and the FE 350 Pro can be customised in terms of its power delivery. A choice of two engine maps can be toggled between and engaged, even while riding, using the Map Select Switch to suit the terrain or the preference of the rider. The EMS allows for further fine-tuning of the FE 350 Pro engine. With Traction Control and a Quickshifter as standard, riders can create a personalised set-up to suit their style or the conditions.

The shared Technical Accessories found on each model is extensive. Factory Racing wheels with high-strength EXCEL Takasago rims, Pro Taper handlebars, together with GALFER brake discs combine performance with style while Brembo clutch and brake systems, a Supersprox Stealth rear sprocket and front and rear disc protectors aid durability. Soft ODI grips, a dark grey seat cover with additional ribs for extra grip, and a skid plate with added linkage protection round out the long list of components used to build these limited-edition machines.

Technical highlights:

New competition-inspired graphics and bodywork
Revised WP XACT Closed Cartridge front forks provide precise high-speed compression damping
WP XACT rear shock design with CFD-optimised main piston and tool-free adjusters
Brembo hydraulic clutch and brake systems
GALFER brake discs front and rear
Factory Racing wheelset assembled with high-strength EXCEL Takasago rims
Competition seat cover with additional ribs
Polyamide skid plate with added linkage protection
Front and rear brake disc protectors
Supersprox rear sprocket
Soft compound ODI grips
TE 300 Pro engine built with TBI technology for exceptional rideability and ease of use
FE 350 Pro features a DOHC 4-stroke engine for class-leading power and torque
Quickshifter provides seamless upward gear changes on the FE 350 Pro
Multifunctional Map Select Switch on both models, which also activates the Quickshifter and Traction Control on the FE 350 Pro
Offroad Control Unit (OCU) for the highest level of reliability and user-friendly serviceability of electronics
High-performance LED headlight delivers a bright light output and easy fitment
Premium-quality ProTaper handlebar
Electric starter powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery

With the popular TE 300 as its foundation, the TE 300 Pro utilises Throttle Body Injection (TBI). This advanced technology ensures a predictable power delivery throughout the rev-range to create a confidence-inspiring riding experience for every competitor.

The FE 350 Pro is powered by a compact DOHC engine that is positioned in the frame to centralise mass. This configuration plays a vital role in the overall handling and anti-squat behaviour of the machine, as does the placement of the major engine components inside the lightweight crankcases. Besides producing class-leading power and torque, the engine is also very easy to service and maintain.

Alongside the Pro enduro models, the latest Functional Offroad Apparel allows riders to compete in maximum comfort and style. With each item designed specifically for enduro competition, the range features multiple lines including waterproof clothing and protective wear. Additionally, for those looking to add a personal touch to their machine, a comprehensive collection of Technical Accessories is available to enhance both performance and durability.

The 2025 TE 300 Pro and FE 350 Pro will be available in Husqvarna Mobility dealerships from October 2024, for retail prices of £11,999 and £12,199 respectively.

For more information on the 2025 Husqvarna Mobility Pro enduro machines, click here

Kawasaki Announces the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure at Motorcycle Live

Frank Duggan

September 24, 2024

With the countdown to Motorcycle Live on, Kawasaki UK is delighted to announce the latest part of its 2024 plans with the launch of the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure.

The exciting new element will provide an opportunity for youngsters between 7 and 12 the chance to get their first ride on two wheels.

At the annual celebration of all things two-wheeled, Kawasaki UK and Team Green partner FUCHS Silkolene are giving young riders attending Motorcycle Live 2024 a chance to experience the joys of riding for the first time. The all-new FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure area is a unique chance for youngsters to ride the Kawasaki Elektrode, a 20-inch wheeled electric-only off-road bike.

Open to attendees between the ages of 7 and 12 (height dependent), every child will be under the watchful eyes and tuition of experienced trainer Craig Chamberlain, who runs the Kawasaki MX Experience days.

Children interested in experiencing the Elektrode and having fun on two wheels for the first time should stop by the Kawasaki stand in Hall 4 on any of the nine showdays.

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department:
“We are always striving to provide customers visiting the Kawasaki stand with an interactive experience alongside showcasing our range of new and exciting machines. The “FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure” will be a great opportunity for parents to give their children the chance to try two wheels for the first time in a controlled and safe environment. The Kawasaki Elektrode is the perfect tool to start your biking journey on at that age and we are confident there will be a lot of smiling faces throughout the nine-day show.”

Natasha Moore – FUCHS UK Sales Manager, Motorcycle Division:
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Kawasaki UK on the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting the next generation of riders. At FUCHS Silkolene, we are passionate about providing innovative and sustainable solutions for motorcycling, and this event gives young riders the opportunity to explore the excitement of two wheels on the all-electric Kawasaki Elektrode. It’s a fantastic initiative that we are proud to be part of, and we can’t wait to see the enthusiasm it will inspire in these future riders.”

Edgy redesign, increased practicality and elevated comfort for Honda’s one-of-a-kind X-ADV

Frank Duggan

September 24, 2024

Edgy Redesign, Increased Practicality And Elevated Comfort For Honda’s One-of-a-kind X-adv — 25YM Honda X-ADV

Since its introduction for 2017, Honda’s X-ADV has captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in a unique package, building a loyal following across Europe thanks to its innovative mix of adventure bike ability and big-scooter usefulness and practicality.

The latest steps forward begin with the bodywork, which has been redesigned to introduce a razor-edged, more aggressive look to the front of the X-ADV, thanks to new fairings with multiple sharp angles and defined creases that create an almost origami-like aspect to the 25YM. The premium frontal light signature is also reinforced by redesigned dual LED headlights that now feature highly effective Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which, in a world’s first for motorcycles, also subtly integrate the X-ADV’s indicators.

The 25YM X-ADV packs an even richer specification aimed at elevating practicality and comfort, starting with a revised five-inch full colour TFT screen with newly designed graphics, menus and functionality operated through a new back-lit four-way switch. The TFT has been designed for optimum readability on bright days and also features Honda RoadSync connectivity, allowing seamless integration with users’ smartphones. Cruise control is another useful 25YM addition for longer highway journeys; further practicality and comfort upgrades come in the form of a thicker seat – reshaped for easier ground reach – and a revised windscreen with easier adjustability.

Fittingly for a vehicle as innovative as the X-ADV, the 25YM has 25 pieces of bodywork made from sustainable materials such as recycled plastics and biomass plastics – an extensive use of such materials unprecedented on any previous Honda motorcycle. This use of sustainable Durabio™ and other recycled plastics and rubber materials for the bodywork is part of Honda’s long-term aim to achieve “100% sustainable material usage” by 2050.

Recycled materials from Honda automobile bumpers are used for the luggage box and seat bottom for the first time
Pre-consumed recycled polypropylene material*[1] is used for several covers and panels throughout the bike
The biomass plastic “DURABIO™”*[2] is used on the side skirt covers and windscreen
This world’s first*[3] use of biomass plastic DURABIO™ in motorcycle bodywork has the added benefit of avoiding the CO2 emissions associated with the conventional painting process

As before, the parallel twin-cylinder engine blends strong low-to mid-range performance with easy manners and excellent fuel efficiency; peak power remains set at 43.1kW with an impressive 69Nm of torque, all whilst offering efficiency up to 3.6L/100km. For 25YM, Honda engineers have further refined the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), to offer smoother pull away from standstill, and increased control at speeds under 10km/h, greatly increasing the X-ADV’s abilities in and around urban environments.

Underpinning all of this is a tough tubular steel frame chassis, which utilizes 41mm USD front forks, and a rear Pro-Link mono-shock mounted to an aluminium swingarm. The bike sits on spoked 17-inch front and 15-inch rear wheels, whilst braking is provided through dual, radial-mount four-piston calipers grabbing a floating 296mm disc up front, with a mono-piston caliper and 240mm single disc at the rear.

The 25YM refresh will also see a new palette of colours available, with the X-ADV offered in three new colours: Graphite Black, Pearl Glare White and Matte Deep Mud Gray.

[1] Recycled materials reused from defective products and scraps generated during the manufacturing process
[2] DURABIO^TM is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
[3] Honda research (as of September 2024)

Two Wheels For Life Raises Funds Through Exclusive MotoGP Auctions

Frank Duggan

September 23, 2024

Two Wheels for Life, the motorcycle charity supporting life-saving programmes that ensure healthcare reaches rural communities across Africa, recently joined forces with memorabilia specialist Memento Exclusives to raise money through a series of live auctions.

The auctions, held in the FanZone at Silverstone Circuit during the weekend of the 2024 MotoGP™ British Grand Prix, featured items donated by MotoGP™ Authentics.

MotoGP™ Authentics, run by Memento Exclusives under licence of Dorna Sports, is the official memorabilia partner of MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™. Selling rare, licensed collectibles in collaboration with associated teams and riders, the platform brings fans closer to the sport than ever before.

Items donated by MotoGP™ Authentics (Memento Exclusives) included: two bottles of Prosecco (one signed by the 2023 Valencia GP podium finishers and the other signed by 2023 World Champion, Francesco Bagnaia), the 2024 British GP flag from the event itself, the 2023 Qatar GP Sprint flag and the 2023 Qatar GP flag, which was won by current MotoGP™ rider Fabio di Giannantonio; a sentimental purchase as this flag marked his first and only GP win to date. All auctions raised a conclusive amount of £6000, with all proceeds donated to Two Wheels for Life.

As the official charity of MotoGP™, Two Wheels for Life runs auctions and events with its partners, riders and teams. The organisation supports operations in four African countries: Gambia, Nigeria, Malawi and Lesotho. For more than 30 years, the charity has been working with the goodwill of the motorcycle community to ensure healthcare reaches people in these countries and in the poorest and most remote parts of Africa.

Barry Gough, Founder & CEO of Memento Exclusives and MotoGP™ Authentics, commented:

“We are pleased to have supported Two Wheels for Life with these live auctions held at Silverstone Circuit during one of the sport’s biggest events on the calendar. We know how important the work the charity does is, and through these auctions we are pleased to have raised important funds that will go towards continuing their efforts.”

Two Wheels for Life CEO and Founder, Andrea Coleman, said:

“All of us at Two Wheels for Life would like to thank Memento Exclusives & MotoGP™ Authentics for supporting us and donating such unique items of memorabilia to the Day of Champions auction. We are very proud of this sport and its fans, and the money raised will have such an impact on the world.”

Ducati announces the opening of a new store in North London with LIND

Frank Duggan

September 23, 2024

Ducati is to enhance its dealer network through a strategic partnership with LIND, marking the motor retailer’s inaugural dealership for the renowned Italian motorcycle brand.

Ducati North London, located in Watford, Trade City, will offer the full range of Ducati and Scrambler Ducati motorcycles, alongside associated accessories and apparel. The site will also offer the Ducati Approved programme and provide specialist expert servicing from dedicated motorcycle technicians.

An existing building is set to receive a facelift over the coming months, with building work scheduled from November to create the brand new Ducati North London store, including a purpose-built service reception with a planned opening event in early 2025.

On confirmation of the new partnership, Russ Dacre, MBE said : “We are extremely excited to welcome Ducati to the family. We are looking forward to the opportunity of working with a hugely popular manufacturer with such an inspiring heritage. We’re particularly looking forward to providing an outstanding experience to a new customer base and the team are learning all about the new brand and the impressive product range. The opening of Ducati North London aligns with our strategy to grow with the key premium motorcycle brands in the UK.”

Fabrizio Cazzoli, Managing Director of Ducati UK, said: “Ducati strategic strengthening of its distribution network continues. It is a long process but we are working for success, not only focusing on the immediate, but looking at the long term. We are very glad to announce this new opening as well as the new partnership with one of the most successful retailer in the country, LIND Group.

London is a strategic market, both for its positioning and for its sales potential. I’m sure LIND’s retail experience in the area will be instrumental for Ducati’s growth.

LS2 MX Helmet gets Gold

Frank Duggan

September 23, 2024

ACU Gold and ECE22.06 approval for new LS2 Fast II MX Helmet

Quickly becoming one of LS2’s most popular off-road helmets, the Fast II gets a major revamp for 2024/25. It now carries the Gold ACU sticker for off-road competition, is fully ECE 22.06 certified and UK road legal, and is even ready to accept LS2’s voice-operated Bluetooth® intercom for hands-free connectivity.

The Fast II’s shell is made from Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA), a super strong material rivalling high-end composites. It is flexible for energy absorption and tough for high penetration resistance, yet weighs just 1400 grams.

The peak is adjustable to suit the rider’s style and riding conditions – without the need for tools. The wide aperture offers plenty of all-round vision and can accommodate most styles of goggles.

Multiple vents, channelling around the head and out through rear exhaust ports, allow plenty of airflow. There’s also a breathable, hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking lining, which is removable and washable.

A reinforced chin strap with double D-ring fastening offers micro adjustment for a safe and secure fit, while the emergency release system allows first responders to remove the cheek pads in seconds, with minimal movement of a fallen rider’s head and neck.

The Fast II comes in a range of sizes from XS-3XL, so most riders will be able to find a fit that works for them. It comes in three outer shell sizes for the smallest, lightest possible helmet in each fitment range, and has a long-oval shape, which follows the natural contour of the head.

Retail prices start at just £79.99 in Solid Matt Black. There are also five brand new graphic options, each selling for £89.99 – unbeatable value for the spec.

Find out more at ls2helmets.com

Notes – The LS2 4X Intercom is co-developed with Cardo, and features sound by JBL, live intercom for up to four riders, Natural Voice Operation and much more. It retails at £239.99 including VAT.

Pump prices falling faster than they have all year

Frank Duggan

September 23, 2024

Pump Prices Falling Faster Than They Have All Year — Image: Getty (all rights reserved)

The prices of both unleaded petrol and diesel at UK forecourts are now falling more quickly than at any other point in 2024 so far, with both fuels now nearly 7p cheaper than a month ago, RAC Fuel Watch analysis shows.

As of Thursday (19 September), a litre of unleaded is being sold for 136.15p on average – down 5p since the start of September (141.26p) and almost 7p lower than a month ago (142.86p), saving nearly £4 for a complete fill-up. For diesel, the drop is similar with average prices down 5p since the start of the month (145.99p) to 140.87p, and nearly 7p lower than a month ago (147.74p). The recent sharp reductions mean that both petrol and diesel are now at their cheapest prices in almost three years.

The last time prices were dropping as quickly over the course of a month was between late November and the end of December 2023, when average prices at the pumps for both fuels reduced by more than 7p – but even then, prices on forecourts were considerably higher than they are today. The good news for drivers this month is that depending on where they shop, they can find prices well under the average, with supermarkets currently charging 133.23p for unleaded and 137.69p for diesel. In Northern Ireland, where the RAC considers pump prices to be at their fairest, a litre of petrol is just 131.5p and diesel 134.2p.

The RAC expects average pump prices to fall to a three-year low as soon as the end of September and, if prices continue to drop as the RAC hopes, the average cost of a litre of petrol could dip to as low as 132p and diesel to 138p within the next fortnight – which would be the lowest price drivers have paid for either fuel since July and September 2021 respectively.

The reason for tumbling pump prices is two-fold – a relatively low oil price of $73 brought about by lower global demand, combined with a relatively strong pound, with the latter being helped by a fall in the UK’s rate of inflation.* With fuel traded in US dollars, a stronger pound means UK fuel retailers get more ‘bang for their buck’ when buying in new stock on the wholesale market.

RAC fuel spokesperson Simon Williams said: “It’s really encouraging to see pump prices coming down so rapidly, which we know is as good for drivers’ wallets as it is for keeping the headline level of inflation in check.

“Of course, global oil prices and even the strength of the pound can fluctuate wildly and that’s something completely out of drivers’ control. But with the cost of filling up making up a sizeable chunk of many households’ overall monthly spending it makes sense to stretch every pound spent on fuel as far as possible. Driving efficiently – for instance, with a ‘light right foot’ and by changing up to as high a gear as possible – is the best way to do this, along with paying less to fill up in the first place.

“The message to drivers is simple – keep shopping around for fuel and use the available free tools out there, like the myRAC app, to always pay the lowest price wherever you can. We publish averages on our app and website to help drivers see the absolute maximum they should ever be paying, but there are some good deals out there if you know where to look.

“Based on wholesale pump prices, which is what retailers pay to buy the fuel in the first place, we know there’s scope for further price cuts so we very much hope that within the next few weeks we’ll see pump prices reach their lowest levels in three years. And, as our analysis clearly shows, it’s drivers in Northern Ireland who continue to get the best value with pump prices there between 5.5p and 6p cheaper per litre compared to the average across the whole of the UK.

“We continue to look forward to the new Government proceeding with its plans to introduce greater pump price transparency with the Pumpwatch scheme, along with an official monitoring function that can help ensure drivers are charged a fair price every time they fill up.”

Drivers looking to save money on their fill-ups should take advantage of the fuel finder feature in the free myRAC app. The app can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play. Up to 10 searches a day can be made over a two, five or 10-mile radius, with each giving the five cheapest prices.

The RAC Fuel Watch web page has more information about the average price of petrol and diesel at the big four supermarkets and at motorway services. It also features graphs showing average prices since 2000 as well as a daily financial breakdown of the cost of a litre of petrol and diesel.

Bastianini triumphs after last lap clash with Martin, Bagnaia slides out on home soil

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

The ‘Beast’ rules, the Martinator rues, and Marc Marquez completes the podium as Bagnaia crashes out at Misano.

High drama, another title fight twist and a last lap clash: the Gran Premio Pramac dell’Emilia-Romagna was a stunner right to the wire. On the top step after a brutal last lap lunge, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) took Ducati’s 100th premier class win – and ensured the factory wrapped up the 2024 Constructors’ crown. He also ensures he cut his deficit to the top of the Championship, as his last lap attack was to defeat points leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing).

Martin may not have taken that win but he does leave with a bolstered 24-point advantage in the title fight after reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) slid out of third when on a charge to catch the duel at the front… promoting Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) to third.

Martin took the holeshot with another stellar start from the middle of the front row, but Bagnaia wrestled the lead back at Turn 2, shooting round the outside and putting the hammer down in the lead in classic style. But Martin managed to hold off Bastianini to keep second in the aftermath, and those three started to build a small gap as Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) charged up, and Marc Marquez too.

Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the first drama in the front group as the South African crashed out, rider ok and rejoining, but ceding in the battle against Acosta and Marquez. Acosta would do the same a few laps later, rider ok but not able to rejoin.

In the meantime, there were fireworks at the front. Still with 25 laps to go, the top two in the title fight were taking the gloves off. Martin homed in and launched it, but Bagnaia cut back immediately. In the aftermath the Spaniard was nearly sandwiched between the two Ducati Lenovo machines as Bastianini also looked to try his luck, but it stayed as you were. For now…

Next lap around, Martin went for a dive up the inside at La Quercia, and this time made it stick. Bagnaia looked to respond up the inside but was forced to slot back into second and defend from Bastianini instead – and from there the reigning Champion had a few scrappy corners, sectors and laps. Bastianini got past and set off after Martin, and it seemed Bagnaia was going to have to look over his shoulder for Marc Marquez and Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) starting to reel him in.

Or maybe not? As Bastianini shadowed Martin at the front, Bagnaia started putting in the fast laps. Leaving the #93 and #72 behind, he was cutting three or four tenths off the leading duo’s advantage. Then it was Martin only as Bastianini got his own hammer down to glue back onto the Pramac… but then the #1’s dream was over in some seismic Championship drama.

After getting the gap to the front down below two seconds and then struggling to cut any more into it, there was suddenly a cloud of dust streaking into the air – and a reigning Champion in the gravel. Rider ok, but Emilia-Romagna GP over, Bagnaia was forced to watch the duel for Ducati’s 100th win from the sidelines, wondering if his deficit was going to be 24 points or 29 by the end of play.

At the front, the chess match raged on. Martin in the lead, Bastianini his shadow. With five to go, the #89 then lost every last inch of advantage as he headed slightly wide and Bastianini was almost alongside. A grandstand finish was in the making.

They stayed like that through another lap, and another, and another, and at times it looked like Martin had just been able to stretch out enough tenths to ensure he’d reach the flag without coming under attack. But Bastianini managed to find an answer every time, and onto the last lap it was almost nothing in it. But where would the move come?

The answer was Turn 4, and it was brutal. The Beast sent it, Martin had to sit up, and the #89 was sent well wide, hand in the air as Bastianini sailed away into a nice cushion of time in the lead. Controversial or decisive as it may be for some, it wasn’t so for the FIM MotoGP™ Stewards, who declined to investigate. The #23 takes a brutally-fought home win – extending his 100% MotoGP™ podium record at Misano, cutting his deficit in the title fight, and ensuring his teammate lost five less to Martin. As well as, of course, securing Ducati’s 100th MotoGP™ win and sealing that incredible sixth Constructors’ crown.

Martin was left to seethe at the move but celebrate the new 24-point advantage at the top, and Marc Marquez was bumped up to the podium after Bagnaia’s crash, another shift that has a say in those top echelons of the Championship. Just behind that, Bezzecchi took fourth, not quite able to stay with the #93 but putting in another solid weekend.

Fifth place, until the very last sector of the race, looked set to go to another stunning ride from Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™). But a late issue, reportedly running out of fuel, saw the Frenchman trying to hold on round the final corner and then forced to watch Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) and Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) pip him to the line. Quartararo nevertheless equals his and Yamaha’s best of the season so far: P7.

Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) and Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) completed the top ten. Next up, an impressive P11 for Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) equal’s the factory’s best so far this season, and teammate Luca Marini was in touch behind him too. They both beat Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse Racing) and a sore Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who also had a Long Lap due to track limits, with Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) completing the points scorers.

That’s a wrap on a dramatic weekend at Misano, and the paddock is already on the way to Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit for the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. There, the battle continues for another 37 points – and there are still plenty on the table as the momentum continues to shift and the drama sets us up for a fascinating final stint.

See you on Lombok for the next installment of the world’s most exciting sport!

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

Vietti steals win from Canet and Arbolino in a Moto2 classic

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

A stunner of a Moto2™ race played out at the Emilia-Romagna GP as a dramatic last lap sees home hero Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) claim a second win of the season after the Italian beat Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) by 0.029s.

Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) led on the last lap but a costly error at Turn 14 meant the Italian took the flag in P3, as Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) extends his title lead with a P4.

After getting a fantastic launch, Arbolino pounced into an early lead as Vietti and Canet quickly slotted into P2 and P3, with World Championship leader Ogura making solid progress from P7 on the grid to earn P4 in the early exchanges.

As the race settled, drama unfolded for two title hopefuls. While running P7, Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) crashed at Turn 2 and not far in arrears, Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) crashed at Turn 1. Both were unable to get their bikes going, as the Briton and Spaniard’s Emilia-Romagna GPs ended in disappointment.

Back at the front, Arbolino’s early lead was being chopped away by Vietti and Canet. The trio were two seconds up the road from Ogura, with the Japanese rider having Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors SpeedUp) for company, as Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) found himself in a lonely P6.

With six laps to go, Vietti made a mistake at Turn 2 to allow Canet into P2 – and Arbolino some valuable breathing room. The wobble cost Vietti 0.8s, meaning Canet was now in charge of trying to attack Arbolino. With four laps left, a slender 0.4s split the three, with Vietti climbing all over the back on Canet.

Then, battle mode was engaged. A mistake out of Turn 13 saw Canet and Vietti pass Arbolino into Turn 14, before Vietti had another big moment at the final corner that cost the Italian more crucial ground. Vietti was now 0.7s down on the top two as Arbolino and Canet exchanged P1 twice in the first half of the penultimate lap.

Last lap time! Arbolino led from Canet, as Vietti was now right with the top two. Arbolino kept the chasers behind for the first half of the lap, but unbelievably, Arbolino was wide at Turn 14. And not just wide, very wide. It was a gift for Canet who now had to hold off Vietti through the final two corners to win. But on the run to the line, after getting a much better run out of the final corner, Vietti picked the pocket of Canet to win on home turf. A devastated Arbolino crossed the line in P3 as we witnessed an outstanding intermediate class race at Misano.

In the end, Ogura was only a second away from the podium in a P4 that sees the Japanese rider extend his Championship lead to 22 heading to Indonesia. Aldeguer completed the top five, 1.5s shy of Ogura, with Roberts sixth to earn his best result since the Italian GP.

An impressive P7 for Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) signals the Australian’s second best result of the season, as the rookie finished ahead of Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing), Alonso Lopez (MB Conveyors SpeedUp) and Filip Salač (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) – the Czech star completing the Emilia-Romagna GP top 10.

What a race. The top three treated us to a barnstormer as Ogura climbs further away from the chasers at the Championship summit ahead of a much-anticipated trip to Lombok. Can the #79’s momentum be stopped at the Indonesian GP? We don’t have long to find out.

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

Back on top: Alonso fends off Piqueras for eighth win of 2024

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

The revenge David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) was looking for was served at the Emilia-Romagna GP as the Colombian claimed a wonderful eighth win of 2024 to strengthen his grip on the Championship.

It was another lightweight class fight that went to the wire as Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) finished a close second, with Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) earning P3 after Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) was demoted one place for exceeding track limits on the final lap.

From pole, Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) grabbed the holeshot after getting a perfect launch, as drama unfolded at Turn 2 for the second week running for David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) – the Spaniard tagged the back of Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) and was out of contention, but Muñoz was able to complete his double Long Lap penalty after remounting. Meanwhile, Alonso picked his way to the front by the end of Lap 1, with Holgado carving his way up to P5 from P11 on the grid.

By Lap 5, Holgado held the P1 baton for the first time as Friday pacesetter, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), was now P2 ahead of teammate Piqueras. Alonso was fourth, Furusato was fifth, with Veijer sixth in a lead group that was formed of 14 riders.

With 14 laps to go, Piqueras led for the first time, but a huge warning came a couple of laps later that cost the rookie a couple of places. Another big moment came a lap later, as Furusato – going for a lunge at Turn 14 – made contact with Fernandez which saw both riders lose valuable time. Fernandez was now P7, the polesitter was shuffled back to P11.

When Alonso hit the front again with nine laps left, the pace was upped and gaps began to appear in the group. Holgado, Piqueras and Veijer clung onto the coattails of the #80, with Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) 0.9s back.

Two to go in Emilia-Romagna! Four riders, three spots in the podium. It was Alonso from Holgado, Piqueras and Veijer, who was going to make the first big move? The answer was Holgado. Turn 14 on the penultimate lap, the #96 shoved his way past Alonso and Piqueras followed his compatriot through.

On the final lap, Holgado led until Turn 8 saw a change. It was three abreast into the left-hander and taking a two for one deal was Alonso. The title chase leader was back in the lead and after producing an inch perfect latter half of the lap, Alonso picked up another 25 points as Piqueras settled for a close second. Holgado crossed the line in P3 but after a track limits violation at the final corner, Veijer was promoted to P3.

Ortola couldn’t bridge the gap once he got to P5, as Lunetta edged out Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) by under two tenths as the Italian and Australian take away a P6 and P7 respectively. Fernandez’s early charge faded slightly as the #31 claimed P8, the Spaniard finished narrowly ahead of Matteo Bertelle (Kopron Rivacold Snipers) and Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo).

Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) pocketed P11 and P12, as a disappointed Furusato – having been handed a Long Lap penalty – came home in P13. Nepa and Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) rounded out the points in P14 and P15.

Now, a trip to Indonesia awaits and Alonso heads to Lombok 82 points clear of Holgado and 83 ahead of Veijer in the Championship chase. Leads don’t get much more demanding than that.

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.motogp.com

Danny McFadden: Voge 900 DSX Adventure Tourer

Kerrie McFadden

September 22, 2024

The Voge 900 DSX marks a significant shift, purposeful intent to enter the European ‘bigbike’ market with motorcycles that have been designed, developed and durability tested to stand handlebar to handlebar with the trusted establishment, be they European or Japanese as genuine rivals rather than the low cost, no frills option.

The 900 DSX represents several years of development and research from its parent company Loncin (itself one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in China producing some 2.5 million motorcycles and 3 million engines annually) and leans upon its long- standing reciprocal trade agreement with BMW motorcycles which dates all the way back to 2005.

At the heart of the 900 DSX is a 895cc 270 degree parallel twin engine which has been utilised across several BMW models over the years albeit now manufactured under the agreement in its own name and to its own specification producing a lower claimed 93.8 BHP at 8250rpm (F900 GS 105 bhp @ 8500rpm) but with a stronger claimed torque figure of 95nm at a lower 6000 rpm (F900 GS 93nm @ 6750rpm) which points towards a development path seeking more driveability than outright power.

With bespoke mapping and 4 rider modes including ‘Enduro’ which disables most of the systems to allow for the usual skids, wheelspin and wheelies should the need arise.

Following a tried and tested path of an underdog entering a new market the Voge leans heavily on offering more for less with items such as adjustable KYB suspension, Fast ace steering damper, Brembo brakes with switchable dual channel Bosch ABS, Pirelli Scorpion trail tyres to list a few, however, this is where Voge have pushed the boundaries further as the 900 DSX also brings new and innovative tech to market.

A clear focus has been placed on safety, not only through the usual reactive rider aid based systems such as ABS/traction and lift control but with the addition of several of the advanced proactive systems that have been seen within the car world during the last decade. Systems which give the rider as much upto date information as possible so as to help minimise the ever-present external dangers the modern day roads harbour. Tyre pressure monitoring, wing mirrors with blind spot warning radar and the item which stood out most for me during the days riding – the rear proximity alert warning system which alerts you via the dash of a too fast rearward approaching vehicle via the dash, but also alerts the vehicle behind that the closing speed is greater than they realise by flashing the rear lights and hazards quickly drawing the following persons focus.

This system really could save lives as there are a significant number of serious accidents each year where people collide at high closing speeds. The systems range is significant enough that there’s time for either the person following to react or if you’re riding the bike to try and get out of the way.

There’s also a 1080p HD front facing camera integrated within the front of the bike with a memory card accepting hard drive fitted under the seat which can continuously record each ride. As well as being useful to have should you be victim of a non-fault accident it also has the benefit of being able to easily record your off-road antics or hopefully not, your ill-advised track day experience. As well as the video there is also a ‘quick picture’ button on the handlebars which will produce an additional still image upon request.

If you’re worried about potentially creating your own prosecution material then the system can be disengaged by leaving the SD card slot empty. The system works in 5 minute recording segments which once the fitted SD card is full begins overwriting the card 5 minutes at a time, in a bid to keep all footage available as long as possible. A 7” full colour TFT dash, app-driven navigation/phone connectivity, cruise control, full LED lighting, with DRL spotlights which act as cornering lights with one side illuminating when indicators are used, keyless ignition, heated seat and handlebar grips, 12v sockets (USB/c) along with a full 3-piece hard luggage system, adjustable windscreen, hand guards, centre stand, engine protection and sump guard all fitted as standard with a price of £8,999 plus OTR represents exception value for money.

At a claimed 220kg (excluding boxes) the DSX is right in the ball park and despite offering 190mm of ground clearance manages a sensible 825mm seat height, which resulted in both feet being firmly on the ground which is something of a novelty for me from an adventure motorcycle and something I feel points to where the DXS looks to fit within the market.

A model which isn’t looking to directly compete with existing purchasers of large adventure bikes but those seeking to enter the motorcycle market buoyed on by the ‘conquer the world’ adventure lifestyle that was started all those years ago with the ‘Long way down’ gang. Be it as their first or first larger motorcycle or as a soft entry to those riders who are looking to see what all the adventure fuss is about. Someone who perhaps already owns another motorcycle and wants to add another to their life, wants all the latest toys with the added security of a 2 year parts and labour warranty without spending upwards of £16,000.

The low seat height is coupled with a wide and wonderfully comfortable seat which rises at an angle to form the pillion perch. The angled portion acts as a comfortable backstop which locks you into position. The handlebars placed me slightly canted forward with my arms slightly higher than my elbows which meant despite several hours of riding during the day, comfort was never an issue. The overall feeling was of being sat in rather than on the bike, cocooned within.

Testing the 900 DSX as it comes meant fully loaded with its 3 piece hard luggage system which I put to good use by loading with several kgs worth of items ranging from camera cases to bottled water. All of which made its presence known during low speed manoeuvring (turning in the road, backing out of parking spaces etc) and during the sudden strong sidewinds that we had on the launch which I can only compare to having a smaller passenger sat on the back at all times. Despite this the 900 DSX handled in a confidence inspiring way despite my best efforts at times to make it misbehave. The combination of its weight, wheelbase, geometry and steering damper meant that even with its rider aids disabled in ‘Enduro’ mode, the 900 DSX never overstepped from being playful to dangerous.

The Pirelli Scorpion tyres offered great feedback and grip, far more than I’d expected and resulted in ground clearance (centre stand) becoming the limiting factor. The inherent traction offered from a 270 degree twin and the Scorpions meant that not once did the bike lose traction, even with ham fisted throttle openings.

The 900 twin offers a good spread of torque, happier when revs are over 2000 rpm, with the sweet spot being between 3>7000 rpm the additional revs to the redline being handy for overrev into between corners or to use as a third brake as the engine braking strategy is strong.

For me, the majority of the more off-road leaning adventure bikes offer a more rugged riding experience than the newer all on-road based models. Their fuelling and power deliveries are more raw, gruff even. They pop, bang and snatch in places you wouldn’t expect in comparison to modern all road based models. They’re designed to meter out traction aiding power on varying surfaces at very low speeds, add compliant long travel suspension and the other subtle off-roading touches the end result is a completely involving riding experience. I would describe the difference as jumping from a sports car to a Dakar prepared SUV. It results in a completely different mindset and for me, riding style. I found myself actively seeking out poor surfaces, gravel, damp patches and trying all manner of bike control based tomfoolery.

With the 21” wheel up it takes a little extra effort to tip into a turn before being met with heaps of mid corner stability resulting in an secure, fluid type of riding utilising your full upper body to coax the bike from side to side. Navigating a particularly undulating and snake like narrow high banked road was excellent fun on the 900 DSX with the only close call coming from forgetting about the additional foot or so width the side boxes add, luckily I remembered just before passing the jutting stone wall.

The KYB fully adjustable suspension (194mm front & 198mm rear) is softly sprung and damped, which results in a comfortable and compliant ride suitable for the majority of users and uses the average 900 DSX will face. It allowed me to aim at pot holes for fun and to still be able to hustle along at speed however for the heavier rider, or those looking to tour two up or venture off-road some time making the relevant adjustments will be required.

Despite having a quick shifter/blipper fitted I found it generally best overall to shift traditionally, largely in part to the more agricultural feeling form the gearbox. In keeping with its adventure bike roots the long throw change and fuelling meant the gearbox rarely felt ‘off- load’ for the electronics to execute clean up or down shifts consistently or cleanly enough for me to use all the time. It also just felt more in keeping with the overall experience for the road riding we carried out during the launch, however it could well be that off-road the system makes more sense.

The Brembo brakes work as you’d expect, both front and rear offering plenty of feel and stopping power with a special mention to the rear which allowed controllable locking of the rear when in Enduro mode or activation of the ABS when in any of the other modes. The inherent stability and weight distribution of the package also meant that the front ABS was entirely absent from the days events, again despite my best efforts.

An engaging and despite sporting the latest technology, analogue riding experience is how I’d describe the 900 DSX. Just as bungee jumping allows you to experience total free fall but catches you just before it all gets messy so does the 900 DSX. At all other times it’s all down to you to explore your limits and have fun.

A successful product launch is only ever as good as the backup it has, and this is where Voge did their homework. Teaming up with the long standing MotoGB in 2023. MotoGB are a family owned business and one of the UK’s largest importers and distributors of motorcycles with over 40 years of experience, currently representing 10 manufacturers through the UK’s largest motorcycle and scooter dealer network (circa 300 dealers) as well as having their own 14 branch retail arm and some 270 members of staff. Instrumental with the launching and facilitation of the Royal Enfield relaunch several years ago they have taken the lessons that can be learned through rapid and exponential brand growth and applied these in advance of the 900 DSX launch with such things as plentiful demo bikes, technical knowledge and an already well stocked UK spare/servicing parts warehouse.

In conclusion with the 900 DSX, Voge have created a more affordable, genuine alternative to the establishment and should be on any prospective medium capacity adventure bike purchasers short list.

Demo bikes will be hitting the dealers shortly. For more information on the 900 DSX and
other Voge models or to locate your local dealer please visit www.vogemotorcycles.com

Written by Danny McFadden

Thank you to Helmet City and Richa for kitting me out for the ride, race leathers not required! I will be doing a full review on the kit which will be out next month but in the mean time you can find them here:

Jacket: Richa Infinity 2 Adventure Textile Jacket

Trousers: Richa Infinity 2 Adventure Textile Trousers

Please remember my readers all benefit from a 15% discount across the whole of the Helmet City Website with code: HCDMR15

Want to work together? Please email me at info@FirstTurnMedia.co.uk

Cremona belongs to Petrucci and Barni

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

Starting from the outside of the front row Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) enjoyed a perfect start to the ten lap Tissot Superpole Race to lead from the start.

Having claimed his first WorldSBK victory in Race 1 he instantly backed it up with another victory. Setting a fast pace in the opening laps Petrucci set the fastest lap of the race on Lap 2 and then controlled proceedings.

In the closing stages of the race Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was able to move from fourth to second as he utilised the harder SCX compound tyre to be the fastest rider on track in the final laps. Having started from fourth position on the grid he maintained that position for much of the race before his patience was rewarded.

Andrea Iannone ran in second position until the final lap but did claim his first podium since Race 1 of the Czech Round. The Team GoEleven rider struggled in the final laps as the grip dropped from his tyre but at the flag he was able to claim a safe third place position from Nicolo Bulega.

A difficult opening lap of the race saw pole sitter Bulega drop to fifth position before he eased his way back into the podium positions. The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati had issues in the closing laps but finished fourth and netted an important six World Championship points.

Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) was another rider who used the harder tyre and his reward was a fifth place finish. For the first time this season the Spaniard has claimed back to back top five finishes. With Xavi Vierge also finishing in the points for Team HRC it continued their improved form.

Race 2 Highlights
Starting from pole position, by virtue of his Superpole victory, Petrucci led every lap before taking the flag with over a second in hand from his nearest rival. By claiming the victory in Race 2 Petrucci became just the fourth rider to win three races in a WorldSBK weekend.

Having started from sixth on the grid, Bautista made a good start to spend the first third of the race in fifth position. On lap seven he leapfrogged Alex Lowes and Iannone to move into third position. For the next 14 laps he closed down his teammate Bulega before making his move into Turn 11 on Lap 20. Bautista was the fastest rider throughout the second half of the race and finished the race just one second behind Petrucci.

Bulega set the fastest lap but struggled in the final third of the race and having been overtaken by Bautista the title contender managed his race to claim 16 points.

From ninth on the grid Gerloff was able to show strong pace throughout to move into fourth position on the penultimate lap. Gerloff was able to ease his way past Lowes to finish the race as the leading BMW rider with Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) seventh at the flag.

In sixth position Lecuona ended a very strong weekend for Honda with three top six finishes.

Championship Standings
Despite missing the previous six races Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) continues to lead the World Championship as he recovers from injury.

Having finished fourth in the Superpole Race and third in Race 2 Bulega now sits 13 points behind Razgatioglu.

P1 | Danilo Petrucci | Barni Spark Racing Team)
“This has been one of the best weekends of my career. I was overwhelmed after winning yesterday and I didn’t expect to win the Superpole Race. I was really nervous for Race 2, especially about Alvaro, because I knew he would be faster at the end of the race. I managed to build a gap and then to maintain it. Today’s success is special because this is our home round. Our workshop is an hour away. It’s special because we are an Independent with small sponsors and small businesses supporting us. Today were all here and I think they truly deserve this.”

P2 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I’m so happy because after this race I feel better than yesterday. For me, my condition is the most important news of the day. I’m improving and that means I can recover for the next rounds. I was really happy with my performance in the Superpole race to secure a good starting position for Race 2. In Race 2, my mentality was the same. I wanted to make a good start, avoid mistakes and finish the race. My pace was good and I was faster than yesterday. I want to say congratulations to Danilo for his hat trick at his home round because it’s a very special moment. Aragon is my home round so hopefully I can be in better physical shape for it.”

P3 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I knew this track would be difficult for me so to come away with two podiums after such a tough weekend is really positive. In Race 2, there was a small battle with Alvaro toward the end. I expected him to be fast, especially in the closing laps when the tyres are worn. Alvaro has more experience and a different riding style to me and that helps him to manage those moments better. In the early laps I pushed hard but when Alvaro and Danilo overtook me I decided to take fewer risks and let them go. I’m still happy with third place. It was important to score 16 points because every point counts.”

WorldSBK Race 2 Results
1. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team)
2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +1.023s
3. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +2.910s
4. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) +8.452s
5. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +8.761s
6. Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) +13.397s
Fastest lap: Nicolo Bulega, Ducati – 1’29.438s

Championship Standings
1. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 365 points
2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 352 points
3. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 283 points

WorldSBK Tissot Superpole Race Results
1. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team)
2. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +1.797s
3. Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) +2.572s
4. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +3.431s
5. Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) +4.729s
6. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +5.578sFor more info checkout our dedicated World Superbike News page World Superbike News

Or visit the official World Superbike website WorldSBK.com

Manzi wins as Montella hands Huertas the championship advantage

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

A crash for Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) has handed the WorldSSP title advantage to Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team).

The Ducati rider crashed at Turn 7 mid-way through the 20 lap race while leading. The mistake proved costly and leaves Montella 43 points behind in the standings.

Starting from pole position Huertas dropped behind Montella on the opening lap before retaking the lead. A mistake on Lap 5 dropped him to third position before inheriting second position as he maintained his pace throughout the 20 lap race to follow Stefano Manzi home.

Manzi’s win was his first since the Catalan Round in March as the Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing took the lead on Lap 10 and then controlled the race to win by more than two seconds. Manzi is now seven points behind Montella in the standings.

Having finished fifth in Race 1 Tom Booth-Amos was able to finish on the podium in WorldSSP for the first time. Having started from eighth on the grid Booth-Amos ran a consistent pace throughout to hold a comfortable margin ahead of a three rider group fighting for fourth position behind him.

The fight for fourth saw Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) overtake Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) in the closing stages. Caricasulo then lost another position to Valentin Debise (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) on the penultimate lap.

P1 | Stefano Manzi | Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing
“It was amazing to win this race! I fought for for the whole race. This race was different to Race 1 because I was closer to the leader but I struggled with rear grip today. After two or three laps I noticed that Yari was pushing really hard. He made a small mistake and crashed. From that point onwards, I tried to break away. Adrian started to close in but my pace was really strong. Turn by turn I was able to open the gap. It feels fantastic to get back to winning because it’s frustrating to finish second.”

WorldSSP Race 2 Results
1. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing)
2. Adrián Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) +2.697s
3. Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph) +7.561s
4. Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +9.412s
5. Valentin Debise (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) +10.243s
6. Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) +10.935s
Fastest lap: Yari Montella, Ducati – 1’32.117s

Championship Standings
1. Adrián Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 334 points
2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) 291 points
3. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 284 points

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

An action-packed WorldWCR Race 2 results in victory for Carrasco

Frank Duggan

September 22, 2024

Race 2 Highlights:
An incredible second and final WorldWCR race at the Cremona Circuit saw four riders going all out for the win today. Victory ultimately went to Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team), the Spaniard joined on the podium by local rider Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) and Australian Tayla Relph (Tayco Motorsport).

The race came to a disappointing end for Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team), who led the way together with Carrasco until the very last lap. As she prepared to set up the final corners, Herrera found herself battling not only Ana, but also Ponziani and Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) who had caught the leaders and were equally eager for a top three finish.

A last gasp battle between this quartet of riders unfortunately resulted in both Herrera and Sanchez crashing out through turn 11, which meant that Carrasco was able to secure her third win of the year, while Italian Ponziani celebrates her very first WorldWCR podium, achieved at her home round

Lying fifth at the time of that last lap incident after working her way up the field from ninth, it was Relph who took the final podium spot. This is the Australian’s first top three finish of the 2024 season.

Rounding out the top five today were Spaniard Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) and wildcard Avalon Lewis (Carl Cox Motor Sports), the New Zealander having put in a strong performance all weekend during her first WorldWCR appearance.

With today’s race win and having scored a total of 41 points this weekend, Carrasco now moves into the lead in the championship standings (163 points), nine points ahead of Herrera.

Both Sanchez and Herrera were checked at the circuit medical centre following their crashes. Sara has sustained a right hip abrasion, while Maria has a neck sprain and contusion and will be transported to Cremona Hospital for further assessments.

Deemed responsible for causing the crash, Sanchez has been sanctioned with a long lap penalty, to be served during the next race at Estoril.

Crashes for Mallory Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team), Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno), Luna Hirano (Team Luna) and Sara Varon (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA) early in the race meant that these riders also failed to reach the finish line.

Having crashed in Saturday’s race, Alyssia Whitmore (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) was transported to Cremona Hospital, where it was determined that there are no serious injuries to her head. X-rays show that Lissy has sustained a fractured right wrist and contusions to the chest, torso and leg areas. Whitmore remained in hospital overnight for observation.

Championship Standings:
After four of six rounds, Carrasco is the new championship leader, with 163 points
Just nine points behind is Herrera, second with a tally of 154, followed by Sanchez (128) and Neila (107 points)

Key Points:
Pole position: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) – 1’41.152
Race 1 winner: Maria Herrera
Race 2 winner: Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team)
Race fastest lap: Ana Carrasco – 1’40.649 (Race 2)

P1 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team
“I’m so happy because our target at Cremona was to boost our points total and we’ve done that. It was a really tough race today, but I used the same strategy as yesterday, trying to get out front right from the start of the race. I had a few rear grip issues, but I was able to manage that and am very pleased with the result. Maria and I battled hard, passing each other so many times; it was just unfortunate that she crashed right at the end. All four of us were pushing hard in that final sector, and we all tried to be first into that corner. I hope Maria and Sara are OK of course, but I’m pleased with my results this weekend. It’s also important that we’ve now moved into the lead in the championship with just two rounds to go. It’s nice to see some new faces on the podium too, I’m very pleased for Roberta and Tayla.”

P2 | Roberta Ponziani | Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team
“I’m so, so happy. I knew I could be fast here, but I didn’t know if I could reach the podium. Yesterday I had trouble overtaking and couldn’t do more than I did, but today I was really determined and went all out to pass and finish top three. I did my best to battle with Ana and Maria, and then Sara caught up to us too and I knew we had a fight on our hands. On the last lap, I tried to use the slipstream and pass both Ana and Maria; I’m just sorry for Maria and Sara of course. I leave Cremona happy anyway, and it was great to be in the fight and feel competitive here. We have two more rounds still to run, and they will be tough because I don’t know the Estoril or Jerez tracks, but we will do our best to fight.”

P3 | Tayla Relph | Tayco Motorsport
“I’m speechless! I really cannot believe it, also because I made a horrible start and was down in ninth, I think, going into turn 1. I knew I had good pace though, so I did my best and pushed hard, moving up to fifth which is where I was when Maria and Sara crashed. It was a very hard-fought race, and I really worked hard to make passes and work my way up, so it wasn’t an easy podium at all. When I crossed the line, I still didn’t know that I had a podium, but I saw my fiancé cheering and then realised where I’d finished. We’ve sacrificed so much to be here this season, him and I, moving to Europe from Australia. I knew it wouldn’t be easy to come to this championship and compete against world-class athletes, but I’m so pleased to have made gradual progress, round by round, and have finished top three today. I knew I could be strong here at Cremona and we did it! I have great people around me, so a big thank you to my team, my fiancé and everyone who supports me.”

WorldWCR Race 2 Results
1. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team)
2. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) +0.195s
3. Tayla Relph (TAYCO Motorsport) +13.676s
4. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +13.858s
5. Avalon Lewis (Carl Cox Motor Sports) +14.358s
6. Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) +22.431s

Championship Standings
1. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) 163 points
2. María Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) 154 points
3. Sara Sánchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) 128 points

WorldWCR returns for the Estoril Round from 11th to 13th October.

For more info checkout our dedicated WorldWCR News page superbike-news.co.uk/WorldWCR/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com/en/news/wcr

Four points in it: Bagnaia reels in Martin after tense Misano Sprint

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

The title fight twists again as the Italian defeats Martin and Bastianini to set up a Sunday showdown for the ages.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) had a statement Saturday at the Gran Premio Pramac dell’Emilia-Romagna, stalking Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), pouncing on a mistake and then withstanding his own pressure to the flag to cut the gap to just four points at the top of the table.

Martin did keep that pressure on, however, coming home second, as Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) chased the two home – and prepares to try and do more than that on Sunday.

Martin made a dream take off at the start of the Sprint, with the #89 launching his attack on the run to Turn 1. He then pulled the pin at the beginning, pushing hard on the opening laps and as Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) leapfrogged the reigning World Champion too, pushing Bagnaia down to third.

Binder was then elbowed down to fourth at Turn 8 as Bagnaia and then Bastianini shot through, and next it was Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) making moves. On the comeback from his P7 starting position after a crash in qualifying, Marquez got past the South African early on, and soon so did Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3).

All eyes then returned to the front as Bagnaia reeled in the Championship leader, closing the gap to under half a second. They started to pull away from Bastianini too, creating a duel for glory and with plenty more on the line than 12 points.

By Lap 8, Bagnaia was glued to the Pramac ahead, having reeled him in, lost a few metres, saved a front end moment and then gathered it back up. And Martin then suffered his own small drama, heading wide and that leaving the door far enough ajar to allow Bagnaia through. The hammer then went down from the #1.

Initially, the gap shot up and it looked more likely Bastianini would catch Martin, but in the final few laps the #89 was locked in to try and take it to the line. From sixth tenths up the road to Bagnaia on the penultimate lap, Martin edged closer and closer until the lap count ran out, forced to cede defeat by less than three tenths. Bagnaia strikes back after a tougher run, cutting his deficit in the title fight to just four points – so if it’s a duel on Sunday, the winner decides the Championship lead.

Bastianini remained close too and will be one to watch on Sunday when he has Grand Prix distance to go at, so far enjoying a 100% podium record at Misano in the premier class. The last time he started a GP race from the front row, he won it.

Behind that trio, Marc Marquez couldn’t make too much progress from fourth and was also hampered by a mistake at Turn 13 – the #93 soon had Acosta glued to his tailpipes. Less than one second separated the pair throughout as the #93 attempted to stretch a gap, and the rookie denied him. By the flag however, the veteran pulled away to ensure those valuable few extra points for P4. Acosta, nevertheless, came home top KTM/GASGAS in fifth, with Binder looking to hit back on Sunday as he was forced to settle for P6.

Further back, there was an intense battle for the final point-scoring positions in the Sprint, with Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™ Team) putting in another sublime weekend at Misano so far, taking back to back Q2s and more Sprint points this time out. He held off Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) and Prima Pramac Racing’s Franco Morbidelli, who completed the Saturday scorers and will both be looking for some revenge on Sunday.

That’s true of plenty just behind them too, with Aprilia especially looking to move forward in the Grand Prix race. It will likely be a historic one too, with Ducati able to wrap up the Constructors’ crown if they have 222 points or more in hand… it’s Bagnaia’s 100th MotoGP™ start… and Ducati head in with 99 premier class wins.

25 points, a gap of just four, and some tempting milestones await on Sunday. Who’s coming out on top on take two? Find out at the slightly earlier time of 13:00 local time (UTC +2)!

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

Canet clinches lap record pole in closely contested Q2 scrap

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

A last-gasp 1:34.935 saw Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) collect a fourth pole position of the season in an epic scrap for Saturday’s intermediate class honours.

The top three were split by just 0.010s as Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) and Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) complete the front row in Emilia-Romagna.

Despite being 0.037s away from the pole time, Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) will spearhead the second row as he aims to make amends for his crash from P4 a fortnight ago.

Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) makes it an all-Kalex top five in qualifying as the British rider goes in search of a fifth rostrum in the last six races. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors SpeedUp) rounds out Row 2 as the Spaniard bids to stand on the podium for the first time since the German GP.

Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), the Championship leader and San Marino GP winner, will launch from P7 as teammate Sergio Garcia hopes to regain momentum from P13.

Tune in for the Moto2™ race on Sunday at 11:15 (UTC +2) to see what title chase twists lay ahead at Misano!

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

Furusato fires his way to debut pole to deny Alonso

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) is a Grand Prix polesitter for the first time thanks to a late 1:40. in Moto3™ Q2 at the Emilia-Romagna GP.

The Japanese star ousted World Championship leader David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) from P1 as the Colombian suffered a small crash at the end of the session to halt his hopes of finding an improved time. Completing the front row will be San Marino GP hero Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing), who launches from the front row for the second time in 2024.

Title hopeful Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) secured P4 as the Spaniard goes in search of back-to-back podiums at Misano – and to continue reducing the points deficit to Alonso.

Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), the rider acting who sits P3 in the Championship, will launch from P6 on the grid, one place behind Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) who earned his best qualifying result of the season.

Alonso’s chief Championship chaser, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), has a little more work to do off the line than he would have liked after the #96 qualified in P11 for Sunday’s 20-lap battle.

Tune in for the Moto3™ battle at 10:00 (UTC +2) as another lightweight class classic awaits.

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

Petrucci joins the WorldSBK winners circle

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

Superpole Session
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) claimed his second pole position of the season. The Italian rider however ended the Tissot Superpole Session in the gravel trap after a crash at Turn 2. His time of 1’27.953 was one tenth of a second faster than anyone else.

Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) qualified second while Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) set the third fastest time but a three place grid penalty relegated him to the second row for the start of Race 1.

Having qualified on the front row for the previous three rounds Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was fourth fastest but another rider who crashed in the closing stages.

Team HRC qualified with both riders inside the top ten for the first time this year. Xavi Vierge was seventh fastest and one tenth faster than his teammate Iker Lecuona in eighth fastest.

Race 1
A red flag due to technical and safety issues drew the inaugural WorldSBK to a premature close but it ended with a popular race win for Petrucci. The 33 year old Italian became the 18th rider to win a WorldSBK Race and a MotoGP race having taken the lead on Lap 5.

The race started with a five rider group fighting it out at the front. From the second row of the grid Petrucci trialled Bulega and Iannone in the early laps. On Lap three Iannone took the lead but the Team GoEleven rider crashed at Turn 7 on Lap 8. Alex Lowes had been in contention for the podium positions but the Kawasaki rider was another crasher at Turn 7.

Bulega gave chase to Petrucci but as the race was due to enter the final third Petrucci started to open a commanding lead. When the red flags came out Bulega was 2.2s behind the race winner.

Having qualified on the fifth row of the grid Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) recovered to claim the final step on the podium. The reigning World Champion made steady progress throughout the race but is still suffering from his injuries from the French Round two weeks ago.

Fourth position marked the best result of the season for Lecuona while fifth was also a season’s best for Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK). Lecuona ran in the podium positions for four laps while Bassani came through from 12th on the grid.

Championship standings
With championship leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) sidelined by injury Bulega closed the points gap to 35 points. The Italian will retake the championship lead if he wins both races tomorrow.

The fight for third in the standings now sees Petrucci edging into contention. The Ducati rider is fifth in the stangings and 44 points behind Bautista.

Ducati also moved to the head of the Manufacturer Standings with their race victory. They hold an advantage of six points.

Key Points:
Pole position: Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’27.953s
Race 1 winner: Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team)
Fastest lap: Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) – 1’29.397s

P1 | Danilo Petrucci | Barni Spark Racing Team
“Winning this race is unbelievable for me. It’s just a great feeling. It was really unexpected for us too. I thought with the three position penalty it would be difficult to finish on the podium but, after a few laps, I realized I had good pace. When I went to the front I just focused on maintaining my pace without pushing too hard. I expected the pace to be faster and after a few laps I started to push more. Then, with five laps to go, the red flag came out. I wondered if two-thirds of the race had been completed and I wasn’t sure if it had. Then I realized I had won and I couldn’t believe it. This was really unexpected for me and I’ve now ticked almost all the boxes for my career. I feel more confident now and I’ve taken a big weight off my shoulders.”

P2 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“These are 20 very important points to put in my pocket. I’m really happy with second place today because it’s very important. Danilo was very, very fast today. It was dangerous to follow him because he had something more than me. I didn’t feel comfortable with my bike, so I decided that 20 points were better than nothing. We need to work and maybe we’ll have to go back to what we know because we tried something different and I didn’t like it. So I think we’ll return to the setup that works, and I hope to have my 100% feeling back.”

P3 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“It’s been a really difficult day. Yesterday, I didn’t feel too bad but in Superpole when I had to push harder I felt that I was missing some strength. I couldn’t set a really good lap time. Starting from the back at this track is difficult and in the first few laps I felt some pain in my ribs, probably from trying to push too hard in Superpole. During the race I felt stiff on the bike and for the first few laps I couldn’t push. At that time, I thought, ‘Okay, if I still feel like this after 5 or 6 laps, I’ll have to retire.’ But lap after lap, I started to feel better, and the pain lessened. It was easier to move on the bike and I could be more aggressive and regain my pace. Honestly, I didn’t expect to finish on the podium. I’m really happy because on Thursday, I didn’t even know if I could race this weekend. To finish on the podium having started from the fifth row is a really nice result. Now, I just have to recover for tomorrow.”

WorldSBK Race 1 Results
1. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team)
2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +2.590s
3. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +6.383s
4. Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) +7.583s
5. Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +10.125s
6. Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) +10.211s

Championship Standings
1. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 365 points
2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 330 points
3. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 259 points

WorldSBK Tissot Superpole Results
1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’27.953s
2. Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) +0.115s
3. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.332s
4. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +0.357s
5. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.649s
6. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.662s

For more info checkout our dedicated World Superbike News page World Superbike News

Or visit the official World Superbike website WorldSBK.com

Lights to flag win for Huertas

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

Starting from pole position Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) dominated the opening Supersport race of the weekend.

The Italian grabbed the holeshot, set the fastest lap and led every lap en route to his ninth win of the campaign.

In the early laps Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) and Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) gave chase to Huertas but ultimately they were in a race-long fight for second position. That scrap was settled in Manzi’s favour on Lap 15 when he moved ahead of Montella. The Yamaha rider ended the race almost three seconds clear of his rival for his eighth second place finish of the season.

Marcel Schrotter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) returned to form to finish fourth ahead of Tom Booth Amos (PTR Triumph). It was the German rider’s best finish since the second round of the season in Catalunya and ended a run of form that has seen him finishing outside the top six for the last four rounds.

The race saw seven riders crash at Turn 10. The highest profile faller was Federico Carisuolo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) from a comfortable fourth position six laps from the end.

By virtue of his fastest lap Huertas will start from pole position for Race 2. He’ll be joined on the front row by Manzi and Montella. Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) crashed at Turn 10 on Lap 1 but opted to pit during the race. His strategy was rewarded with a personal best lap on Lap 15 that will see him line up on the second row of the grid.
Championship standings

With races remaining in the season Huertas holds a 23 point lead from Montella in the championship standings.

Valentin Debise (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) and Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) are now separated by one point for fourth position in the standings.

Key Points:
Pole position: Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team)
Race 1 winner: Adrian Huertas
Fastest lap: Adrian Huertas – 1’32.213s

P1 | Adrian Huertas | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team
“I’m super happy with this race! I’ve been working so hard to win again and we tried a little bit too hard in the last two races but today I really enjoyed the race. Today, my pace was really strong and I’m really happy with what we’ve achieved. This victory is really important for us and we’ll try to do it again tomorrow. I have learned not to focus on the championship and my team told me before the race to focus on the race and to enjoy it. We’re having a good season and we want to keep enjoying it and to keep winning races.”

WorldSSP Race 1 Results
1. Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team)
2. Stefano Manzi (Pata Prometeon Ten Kate Racing) +4.665s
3. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +7.597s
4. Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +13.000s
5. Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph) +13.682s
6. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +17.818s

Championship Standings
1. Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 314 points
2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) 291
3. Stefano Manzi (Pata Prometeon Ten Kate Racing) 259

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

Herrara triumphs in a five-lap WorldWCR ‘sprint’ at Cremona

Frank Duggan

September 21, 2024

Race 1 highlights:
WorldWCR race 1 got underway as scheduled on Saturday, in dry conditions, but was red-flagged after six laps following an incident for Alyssia Whitmore (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team).

The race was restarted a few minutes later but shortened to just five laps. The new grid was based on the riders’ positions prior to the red flag, which meant that Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) got away from pole ahead of fellow Spaniards Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) and Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team), while Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team), Teyla Ralph (Tayco Motorsport) and Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) formed row two of the grid.

With only five laps in which to shine, the frontrunners wasted no time off the line, with Carrasco again taking an early lead. Herrera was able to pass her on lap three, but the race was far from over, with Maria, Ana and Sara battling hard and fast and taking the race all the way to the line.

It was championship leader Herrera who ultimately secured the 25-point prize today, crossing the line just 0.075 of a second ahead of Sanchez who, in turn, finished a mere 0.122 of a second in front of Carrasco.

Separated from the podium sitter by just a few seconds, Italian Ponziani boosted her points tally in crossing the line fourth, followed closely by the group comprising Neila, Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) and Relph.

Rounding out the top ten today were wildcard Avalon Lewis (Carl Cox Motor Sports), Astrid Madrigal (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA) and Mallory Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team), with the top ten representing six different nations.

Local rider Ponziani set the fastest lap of the race, completing lap three in 1’41.235, which will give the Italian the advantage of starting Sunday’s Race 2 from pole position.

Sara Varon (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA), Lena Kemmer (Bertl K. Racing Team) and Whitmore crashed during heat one, meaning that none of them were able to line up for the restarted 5-lap race. Assessed at the medical centre, Whitmore has been diagnosed with a minor head injury, a suspected concussion and an injury to her right thumb. The rider has been transferred to Cremona hospital for further assessments.

Championship Standings:
With 154 points in the bag, Herrera continues to lead the way, 16 points clear of her closest rival. Carrasco and Sanchez maintain second and third in the championship, with 138 and 128 points

Key Points:
Pole position: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) – 1’41.152
Race 1 winner: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team)
Race fastest lap: Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) – 1’41.235

P1 | Maria Herrera | Klint Forward Factory Team
“I think this was the hardest race so far, but I also enjoyed it. Just five laps, so a bit short, but we were strong in braking and able to battle hard against Sara, who was also really strong on the brakes. On the last lap, I did well through sector one and set up the final corners well, but I still need to do more to improve along the straight, so we’ll look at the data and see what can be done there, and also decide if there’s anything we want to change on the bike for tomorrow’s Race 2. Overall, I feel I have good power but there are areas in which I can still improve, personally speaking.”

P2 | Sara Sanchez | 511 Terra&Vita Racing Team
“Another second-place finish, and so close to the win! It was tough today, and I had another close battle with Maria and Ana. I’m happy in that I was lying top three for the whole race, but I’d love to take a win of course, also as a morale boost, as we’re so close! We didn’t make the best start on Friday, and I had work to do to find feeling with the bike and the track, but then I made quite a good start in today’s race and was able to run at the front and fight hard. Let’s see what we can do in Race 2 tomorrow.”

P3 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team
“I’m not so happy today because before the red flag I felt I had it all under control and that victory could be mine. Once the race restarted it was not so easy, and we only had five laps. Honestly, I expected to win today, as my pace was good and I was pushing hard. I didn’t really expect Sara to pass me on lap three and it was hard to start the final lap in third position, as I had little opportunity to try to pass Sara and Maria again. But it’s another podium, so that’s not bad. I expect tomorrow’s race to be similar, with a close group of four or five riders. I’ll keep working with my team this evening to see if we can find something extra for tomorrow’s Race 2, when I’ll go all out to try and win.”

WorldWCR Race 1 Results
1. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team)
2. Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) +0.075s
3. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) +0.197s
4. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) +5.113s
5. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +5.382s
6. Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) +6.418s

Championship Standings
1. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) 154 points
2. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha Team) 138 points
3. Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) 128 points

For more info checkout our dedicated WorldWCR News page superbike-news.co.uk/WorldWCR/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com/en/news/wcr

Superbike NewsMotorcycle Industry and Racing News

UrbanObserver

Subscribe to newsletter

Superbike NewsMotorcycle Industry and Racing News

Movies

TV Shows

Music

Celebrity

Scandals

Drama

Lifestyle

Health

Technology

Company

Movies

TV Shows

Music

Celebrity

Scandals

Drama

Lifestyle

Health

Technology

Company

Tommy Bridewell to compete in Jerez WSBK round

Akrapovič has introduced an all-new exhaust to its range with the launch of the Slip-On Line (Carbon) for the CFMOTO 800NK.

Josh Herrin Has A Big Points Lead As He Tries To Win AMA Superbike Title #2 At NJMP, September 27-29

Will It Be Harley’s Kyle Wyman Or Indian’s Troy Herfoss As The Title Chase Goes To The Wire At New Jersey Motorsports Park, September 27-29?

One helmet, three configurations, endless adventures. Commander 2, AIROH’s best seller, is the dual helmet designed to meet the needs of adventure and moto touring lovers.

Get ready for an all-new, adrenaline-fuelled experience at this year’s AMPLIFIED Motorcycle Live.

The start of the 2025 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup racing season is half a year away but next week sees the Selection Event for our 19th championship.

In the aftermath of a dramatic Emilia-Romagna GP, we’re heading for Indonesia and a whole new challenge – with the title fight finely poised.

A Moto2™ belter played out at the Emilia-Romagna GP as three different riders led on the final lap.

After going two races without standing on the podium, David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) returned to the top step at the Emilia-Romagna GP to win for the eighth time in 2024.

Competition-focused TE 300 Pro and FE 350 Pro machines equipped with race-tested components for maximum performance.

With the countdown to Motorcycle Live on, Kawasaki UK is delighted to announce the latest part of its 2024 plans with the launch of the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure.

Since its introduction for 2017, Honda’s X-ADV has captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in a unique package, building a loyal following across Europe thanks to its innovative mix of adventure bike ability and big-scooter usefulness and practicality.

Two Wheels for Life, the motorcycle charity supporting life-saving programmes that ensure healthcare reaches rural communities across Africa, recently joined forces with memorabilia specialist Memento Exclusives to raise money through a series of live auctions.

Ducati is to enhance its dealer network through a strategic partnership with LIND, marking the motor retailer’s inaugural dealership for the renowned Italian motorcycle brand.

London is a strategic market, both for its positioning and for its sales potential. I’m sure LIND’s retail experience in the area will be instrumental for Ducati’s growth.