Vespa 140th of Piaggio

April 15, 2024

Piaggio, established in 1884, turns 140 years old and Vespa celebrates this birthday with a special edition, the most exclusive ever in the history of the most famous and beloved scooter in the world.

The Piaggio Style Centre has created a model that collectors already have their eyes onbecause it will be manufactured in a limited number for a maximum of 140 units and it will only be available for four days, the same ones as the Vespa World Days 2024 rally which, from 18 to 21 April, brings thousands of Vespisti together, as well as national Vespa Clubs from 66 countries. In fact, on the days of the huge celebration, Vespa 140th of Piaggio, can be ordered on the web (VESPA.COM) or in person at the Vespa Village, the beating heart of Vespa World Days 2024 which will be held in Pontedera.
An unrepeatable occasion for collectors from all over the world to take home a version that promises to be one of the rarest, most sought after, and valuable.

In Vespa 140th of Piaggio, created on the Vespa Gtv base, respect for the most classic and evocative shapes of Vespa history is achieved thanks to an extraordinary combination of legend and modernity, where the low headlight and the exposed tubular handlebar combine with sporty trim and a hi-tech equipment package.

The special version is characterised by blue and light blue on a white body, the Piaggio Group’s institutional colours, which interact with the classic graphics and the new Vespa monogram, as well as the celebratory 140-years logo. These colours also enhance the classic necktie on the front shield, the distinctive mark of every Vespa, designed with triple air intakes on both sides and central grilles. The front fairing is also reminiscent of the racing spirit which inspires the Gtv.

The seat is blue, with double tone-on-tone stitching and in contrast, it is characterised by the unmistakable single-seater look, with a wide and comfortable saddle. The rear saddle cover comes standard, another nod to Vespa’s elegantly sporty soul.
The wheel rims, blue with light blue inserts, are also dedicated to this model. The aesthetics of the new Vespa 140th of Piaggio are completed by the black finishes of the body profiles, the mirrors, the silencer, and the fold-away passenger footrests.

Each unit will be identified by a numbered celebratory plate located on the rear shield, also enhanced with the 140-years logo.

The new Vespa 140th of Piaggio is powered by the gritty 300 hpe (High Performance Engine) single-cylinder, with 4-valve timing, liquid cooling, and electronic injection. Accredited with power of 17.5 kW (23.8 HP), it is the highest performance engine every mounted on a Vespa. The light clusters arefull LED, including the characteristic low headlight, whereas the instrumentation maintains the elegant circular shape, but it is now entirely digital, a solution that lets you take advantage of the features provided by the Vespa MIA connectivity system, available as an accessory.

Convenience and practicality are highlighted by the introduction of the keyless system, which allows the ignition to be switched on without the need for a traditional key. On the safety front, it comes standard with ASR electronic traction control and an ABS anti-lock braking system.

Vespa 140th of Piaggio can be fitted with a range of highly stylish accessories, including a top quality large rear leather bag with the Vespa logo embossed and smooth leather reinforcement on the bottom and on the handles which allows for easy and secure fastening on the rear luggage carrier. Some of the accessories which increase the Vespa’s riding comfort and functionality include front and rear luggage carriers, a large windscreen in methacrylate, and crash bars.

For more Vespa News check out our dedicated page Vespa News

or head to the official Vespa website vespa.com/en_EN/

H&H’s motorcycle sales off to a flying start in 2024

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

Almost 90 percent of the classic and collectible motorcycles and scooters offered for sale at H&H Classics’ first motorcycle and scooter auction of 2024, were successfully hammered away on 27 March, for a combined total of more than £800,000.

Such was the variety of the sale at the National Motorcycle Museum, lots ranged from a 1914 Juno to a 2010 Aprilia RSV4R, with all decades in-between covered.

The lot achieving the highest price on the day, a 1951 Vincent Rapide Series C, came from 12 years in an Isle of Man collection, covering a mere 600 miles in that time. The bike’s interesting history helped it achieve a fantastic final sale price of £31,050, more than twice of its pre-sale estimate.

“After pulling together such a fantastic catalogue of scooters and motorcycles, we’re very proud and delighted to achieve a fantastic sales rate of 88 percent in our first two-wheel sale of the year,” comments Mike Davis, head of department, H&H Classics. “As always, there was a great atmosphere in the packed sale room with some spirited bidding battles that helped vendors achieve some amazing results.”

Scooters kicked off proceedings on the day and among the successful sales was a 1948 Lambretta Model A, selling for £8,400, while a 1967 SX200 headed to a new owner for £12,075. Serious scooter interest didn’t stop there, as a 1968 Rimini Lambretta Ancillotti Special Racer, signed by the Ancillotti brothers, was bought for £15,525 and a 1976 Rally 200 flew the Vespa flag successfully to make £11,500.

One of the oldest motorcycles offered on the day was a 1917 Sunbeam 8hp V-twin. The stalled project had recently been found in a coal bunker and its ‘as found’ condition didn’t deter bidders, eventually being hammered away after an international bidding battle for an impressive £10,580.

From the inter-war period, a 1933 Excelsior racer, boasting works forks, frame and tank fired-up bidders enough to see the hammer fall at £13,800. A 1934 Rudge 500 Special, pulled from a barn after 60 years storage and subsequently restored, was successfully sold for £7,820. Meanwhile, recently found in a loft and presenting its new owner with a project, a c.1932 Coventry Eagle Silent Superb was bought for £575.

Slightly later successes included a restored 1940 Triumph 3HW that more than doubled its lower estimate, selling for £6,670, and an older-restoration 1952 Triumph Trophy, still presenting very well, which sparked enough interest to see the hammer fall at £6,440.

More recent offerings included a 1976 Kawasaki Z900A4 selling for £9,430 and a 1979 Honda CBX 1000, coming from 40 years ownership, which was bought for £10,350.

“I’d like to thank everyone who entrusted us with one of their motorcycles or scooters for this sale and I offer my congratulations to those successful bidders who are riding off with a new addition to their collection,” adds Davis.

H&H Classics’ next motorcycle and scooter sale will be held at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, on Wednesday 3 July.

Meanwhile the firm’s next classic, collectible and performance car auction will be held at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton on Wednesday 24 April.

To find out more about any of H&H’s sales, to consign a vehicle or to view the lots on offer, visit www.handh.co.uk.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Furygan proud to continue supporting UK racing talent

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

As Furygan and racing heritage have gone hand in hand since 1969, the French motorcycle protection specialist proudly continues its support in 2024 of British talent across several two-wheel high-level competitions, including the British Superbike Championship (BSB) season starting on 20th April.

Furygan extends its sponsorship of seven racers from the United Kingdom, including six English riders and Isle of Man TT legend Michael Dunlop from Northern Ireland, who will all display the Furygan ‘panther’ on their leathers.

This weekend, the first round of the 2024 British Superbike Championship will take place at Circuito de Navarra, Spain. Max Cook, who had a strong debut season in 2023, is returning with the FS-3 Kawasaki team. Oliver Barr will make his debut in the BSB Supersport premier class on the Binch Racing Yamaha R6.

Two English riders competing in the FIM Junior GP World Championship, includes 17-year-old Eddie O’Shea, and 16-year-old Evan Belford – both competing with Honda.

In the Supersport World Championship (that takes place at almost every Superbike World Championship round), is 28-year-old rider, Tom Booth-Amos of PTR Triumph World Supersport. While 20-year-old Scott Ogden, is racing in the Moto3 World Championship for MLav Racing.

Michael Dunlop, from Northern Ireland, is well known for being an Isle of Man TT legend, with 25 wins to his name. Dunlop is also just one win short of matching his late uncle, Joey Dunlop who achieved 26, and two wins away from becoming the greatest Isle of Man TT racer in history – an accomplishment that appears in reach this year.

Outside the UK, accomplished French MotoGP racer, Johann Zarco, is one of the most notable Furygan sponsored riders.

In 2024, Zarco will look to achieve further success in his first season with CASTROL Honda LCR.

For more Furygan UK News check out our dedicated page
Furygan UK News

Visit Furygan.com for more information on Furygan products or to locate your nearest dealer.

Get Your Bike Track Ready With R&G

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

With the weather warming up and the racing season getting underway, many bikers will be looking to head out on track this summer.

R&G, the world leader in motorcycle crash protection products, is giving riders a chance to save money and get their bike ready for the track with a 10% discount across its core protection range.

Trackdays are a summer staple for many riders, giving them the chance to explore their bikes’ full potential in a fun and safe environment. However, protecting your pride and joy is essential to ensure a drop or fall does not become a costly mistake. Utilised in race paddocks worldwide, R&G has become the go-to choice for riders looking to fully protect their pride and joy on track and on the road.

For motorcyclists getting their bikes prepared ahead of their first trackday, Hampshire-based R&G is offering a 10% discount across its core protection range, including the popular Aero Crash Protectors, aluminium Radiator Guards, Engine Case Covers (including the Race Series range) and its full Lever Guard range.

The offer runs from April 10th to the end of the month and is available exclusively from https://www.rg-racing.com/.

You can stay up-to-date with the latest news by following R&G on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. For product and dealer opportunities, please contact 01420 89007 / info@rg-racing.com or an R&G Sales Agent.

For more R&G news check out our dedicated page R&G News

For more information on R&G Racing products visit rg-racing.com

Win a “Quad Lock Motorcycle Kit”(Mount, Vibration Dampener & Case)

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

In association with Quad Lock win a “Quad Lock Motorcycle Kit“(Mount, Vibration Dampener & Case)

You will receive a case of your choice, which will also include mount of your choice, and a vibration dampener or a Quad Lock gift voucher of the approximate amount.

All we ask is you make a donation to our The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride

You can donate here https://gfolk.me/MCMNews

Once you have donated and to be entered into the prize draw please email us* frank@superbike-news.co.uk to say you have donated and you want be entered into the draw. The draw will be made the week after the ride has been completed and will be randomly pulled out of the hat. “win A New Quad Lock Case, Mount And Dampener“ With Sbn

Also please give Quad Lock a follow on their socials

Instagram
Facebook
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This prize is only open to people who have donated to our DGR

To win this great prize we ask that you donate to our DGR (money goes straight to DGR)

*you won’t be entered into a mailing list this is purely for our record and for us to know who actually wants to win the Quad Lock “win A New Quad Lock Case, Mount And Dampener“ With Sbn

Who are Quad Lock (if you don’t know already)
Our story started with wanting to explore the world. Well, at least some of it. With Australia as their backyard, Quad Lock founders Chris and Rob rode bikes on empty roads, explored mountains on foot, and deserts in the car. But they didn’t have total confidence taking their phones out there. So, they did something about it.

A few years after the release of the first iPhone, Quad Lock was born. And a Kickstarter campaign in 2011 launched a premium iPhone mount – loved by cyclists worldwide. The range has since expanded to other pursuits, with enthusiasts all over exploring more with their phones securely in sight.

Quad Lock: Every Day. Every Adventure.
The motto? Adventure. Whether on bike, boat, car, a trip down the road, or expedition across the globe, Quad Lock makes the experience better. And we build reliable gear, so you can go anywhere. No matter your device. No matter your pursuit.

Product: The confidence to explore.
At Quad Lock, we pay attention to the things that count – design and durability. Our products withstand extreme weather, falls, and impact, featuring a patented dual-stage locking mechanism and secure mount tailored to your activity. From bike to boat and car to foot, all you need to remember is this; our products do what they say they will.

Our world: Our environment.
A lot has changed since we started in 2011. But one thing remains true. Our world needs looking after. We support World Bicycle Relief, providing bikes to developing African communities so they can access education and healthcare. So far, we’ve donated over 1000 bikes and just committed to doubling our efforts.

We’re also removing plastic from our packaging, using 100% FSC paper with soy ink, and reducing carbon emissions to have clean and sustainable adventures for years to come.

Viñales makes history with stunning COTA comeback

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

The first winner with three factories in the MotoGP™ era is crowned – and after slicing back through from P11 – as Marquez crashes, Acosta stuns and Bastianini grabs a late podium.

If you’re going to make history, it’s best to do it in style – and Maverick Viñales(Aprilia Racing) got the memo. After a chaotic start that saw the #12 punted down to P11, the race was absolutely on to claw back through the field and unleash his stunning pace, so that he did. Pass after pass after pass put him back in the postcode of the podium, and from there he threaded the needle to the front and got the hammer down to make history as the first rider to win with three manufacturers in the MotoGP™ era. And did we mention it was one of the greatest races of all time?

Behind Batmav, and not by much, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) came home second to become the youngest rider to take back-to-back premier class podiums, and the rookie was box office – as ever. Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) completed the podium, making a late move on Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing). So where was Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™)? The #93 crashed out after he’d just grabbed the lead back from Acosta, sliding out over the run off and forced to watch from the sidelines.

Turn 1 caused a shuffle and set the scene for what was to come. Acosta took the holeshot with a storming start, and Martin caused a chain reaction with a tough move up the inside that sent Sprint winner Viñales wide, and a few more. But Martin converted that smash and grab into second behind Acosta, with Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) up a storming eight places into third. Soon, however, Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) were on the scene.

Martin attacked Acosta once for the lead and was repelled, and then again but was repelled. The rookie pounded on at the front as the Championship leader looked increasingly impatient. And he had reason to be, with Bagnaia now right on their tail and Marc Marquez right on his.

The next shuffle came as Martin attacked and this time took over at the front. Sensing the time was now, Marquez immediately made his move on Bagnaia, and then the rookie ahead was just wide – allowing the #93 through to chase down Martin. The #89, #93, #1 and #31 were locked together, and soon enough after enough shuffles, Bastianini and Miller were right on their tail too.

At quarter distance into the final corner, Marquez struck against Martin. But there wasn’t space, and the eight-time World Champion had to pull out of it, lightly tagging the Ducati GP24 ahead. No harm done as the #89 kept the lead, but the loss of momentum saw Bagnaia and Acosta able to steamroller past Marquez too.

Meanwhile, Viñales was coming. After dropping to P11, he’d made it past a handful of riders already, including Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) and Alex Marquez(Gresini Racing MotoGP™), before passing Bastianini with 14 to go. His gap to the front was 2 seconds, next target Miller. That was done in Sector 1 with 13 to go. Now it was Bagnaia up ahead, with Marquez ahead of him and Acosta next. Meanwhile, Martin’s gap at the front had grown to just under a second as he started to make some breathing space.

Once Viñales was onto the back of Bagnaia, a spectacular duel ensued between the two as they danced a perfect 200mph ballet, but the reigning Champion couldn’t hold the Aprilia back. Now Viñales he was in pursuit of the top three and the podium, and Acosta had likewise been making hay.

The rookie had cut Championship leader Martin’s advantage right back down, and he had Marquez for company. Once a move was plausible the GASGAS struck for P1, pulling the door open to shoot past Martin and take over in the lead. Marquez was able to follow him through and take over second.

And so the rookie led the eight-time World Champion, as Viñales started to harry Martin for third. But the next move came from Marquez as he sliced through to lead, giving Acosta no right of reply. Was this crunch time for Viñales on the chase, if the #93 had the pace to start breaking away? If it could have been, it didn’t last long. It suddenly all came unravelled for Marc Marquez at Turn 11.

Sliding out from the lead, the American dream of an eighth win at the track was over for the #93, leaving the rookie to sail on to lead over the line. But that wasn’t for long either, with another dance about to begin – because Viñales was past Martin and onto Acosta.
The Aprilia was stuck to the back of the RC16 looking for a way past, which he found a lap later at Turn 11. From there he was able to pull out some tenths of breathing space for the moment, with the next action looking likely to come from Bastianini homing in on Martin. The Beast divebombed the Pramac at Turn 1 with five to go, but it was optimistic and the #89 hit back on the cutback, as you were.

From there the gaps went out, came back in, and went out again, and by the final lap Viñales just had to focus on getting to the flag to make history. Crossing the line after plummeting down the order and ending even the first lap in P9, the #12 won with a third different bike, taking his 75^th podium and completing the double for the first time in his career. The hat-trick of pole, win and fastest lap likewise go the way of Viñales after a spectacular Sunday. Chapeau, as Acosta mimed on the cool down lap, is accurate.

The rookie sensation took second though, able to stay ahead of the battle to complete the podium which was won by Bastianini. The ‘Beast’ swooped past on the back straight on the penultimate lap, ensuring he remains second in the Championship behind Martin. And behind Martin on track, Bagnaia took fifth after a tougher weekend of it at the Americas GP.

Di Giannantonio came across the line to take sixth position, finishing ahead of the second Aprilia Racing machine of Aleix Espargaro. Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) took P8, ahead of Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) after a great recovery ride following his qualifying in 17th. The South African finished the Grand Prix ahead of Raul Fernandez, who rounded out the top 10 at Trackhouse Racing’s home round.

That’s a wrap on COTA. What promised a tantalising showdown in one way quickly became another, with the 2024 Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas sure to go down in history not just for the stats, but for the pure spectacle. One of those that has to be seen to be believed.

So now it’s on to the Spanish Grand Prix, with Martin 21 points clear of Bastianini in the Championship. And Viñales? He’s third, 24 points off the top. Those 20 that went begging in Portimao would seem to mask the fact that the #12 is currently the rider to beat in MotoGP™. Need we say more? See you in Jerez!

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

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

Garcia denies Roberts the American Dream to take maiden Moto2 win

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) stunned at the Circuit Of The Americas to take a maiden Moto2™ win, just finding enough in the tank to hold off home hero Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing). Garcia steals the Championship lead in the process, and in only the MT Helmets – MSI team’s third race in the Moto2™ class, is now two points ahead of Roberts in the standings. Pre-season favourite Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) claimed a first podium of the year after a nail-biting race start and comeback in what’s becoming a calling card until the #54’s luck changes.

The Moto2™ field roared into action on the entry to the technical turn one, with Garcia claiming the holeshot, leading the field from home hero Roberts in second – sending the American crowd to their feet. Aldeguer and pole sitter Aron Canet(Fantic Racing) were swallowed by the pack on the opening lap – dropping down to eighth and 10th, back into the clutches of the Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI).

It was also gloves off for QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™ riders Manuel Gonzalez and Albert Arenas, with the teammates having a near miss and touching – handing Aldeguer sixth place which he happily accepted. Gonzalez would later receive a penalty for a start that was too good to be true – forced to serve a double LLP, dropping Gonzalez to a disappointing 15th.

The same fate could not be said for Aldeguer, who made his way inside the top five and latched onto the back of teammate Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp). Once Aldeguer and Lopez were together on the circuit it was riveting action with friendly fire on track in the battle for fourth place. The SpeedUp teammates did not give each other an inch of room before Aldeguer found a way through and did not look back, with nine laps remaining.

Meanwhile, Dennis Foggia was having a brilliant race on his Triumph-powered Italtrans Racing Team machine. Up to the Americas GP, Foggia was yet to score points in the Moto2™ class this year and was now keeping Roberts honest in second. However, as the race progressed and with Aldeguer fast charging behind, it did not take the Spaniard long to pass the #71 with no way for Foggia to respond – and Aldeguer then set his sights on Roberts.

As the race progressed, Garcia’s rhythm looked perfect – stretching a gap of over one second to Roberts. Roberts responded, matching Garcia’s pace, but then the American made a mistake, running wide at turn 12 and seemingly crushing the hopes of an American win in the process.

However, the Austin crowd was treated to a fantastic Texan duel for P2 with two laps remaining between Roberts and Aldeguer, with the American able to get the upper hand. Meanwhile, at the front, Garcia made a handful of mistakes in the braking zone – losing time and the gap coming back down…

By the flag it was down to just under half a second, but Garcia held on to take a maiden Moto2™ victory and celebrated his success in the Texas sunshine, taking that lead in the standings too. Roberts was forced to settle for second but took back-to-back podiums for the first time, and celebrated that incredible result on home turf for both him and the team. Aldeguer came across the line to finish in a rock-solid third, ahead of teammate Lopez who was just unable to match the podium pace. Marcos Ramirez added to the OnlyFans American Racing Team’s point tally at COTA – rounding out a talent-packed top five.

Foggia dropped to sixth after losing time in the late stages of the race, with Ogura seventh ahead of Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team’s Jeremey Alcoba. Portuguese GP winner Canet was ninth at the end of the race, receiving a 0.396 penalty after cutting a corner to add to his woes after a tough Turn 1 shuffle. Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top 10.

The Moto2™ class will return at the end of April for the next round of what is shaping to be a sensational season at the iconic Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, with the stage set for another stunner!

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Alonso puts in a masterclass, Holgado vs Piqueras goes to the wire

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

David Alonso (CFMoto Valresa Aspar Team) proved unstoppable at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, taking off from pole and able to escape a dramatic contest behind to take his second Grand Prix win of the season in some style. After a rollercoaster route to a vital final lap, the fight for second went down to a near-photo finish between Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and rookie Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing), with Holgado just holding on and holding on to the Championship lead in the process. Still, Piqueras takes a maiden podium and makes a statement in Texas.

Alonso got a good start to retain the holeshot, with Holgado slotting into second until an early race wobble for Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) in third saw him also tag Holgado, sending the number 96 wide. They did regroup, but the net result was a key gap at the front for Alonso. There was then even more drama as Ivan Ortola(MT Helmets MSI) collided with Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA), riders ok, but the Spaniard then trying to remount the wrong bike as both scrambled to get back in the race

Up at the front, there were no such dramas for Alonso – with Matteo Bertelle(Rivacold Snipers Team) a distance back in second before he peeled off to take the first of his three Long Lap penalties, leaving the Colombian with an even bigger gap.

By 11 to go, it was just over three seconds up the road to Alonso, and the second group was six strong: Holgado, Piqueras, Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), Kelso and Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI). But Furusato then crashed out from the chase, and by five to go the lead had come down to three seconds but the group lost another as Kelso slid off, remounting but out of the chase.

Veijer and Holgado were making inroads into the gap before even more drama as the Dutchman suddenly highsided out, right as Yamanaka went for a move on Holgado. Veijer was out, but Yamanaka and Holgado were both able to avoid the incident and straightline it across the run off. Piqueras got past both though.

After that, the lead was back up to over six seconds by the start of the final lap, but the podium fight was close as Holgado led Piqueras led Yamanaka, teasing a photo finish. And that it was! The Japanese rider couldn’t quite make an attack but Piqueras tucked in behind Holgado on the back straight and made a move stick at the end of it, no nerves on show as he fought for his first podium. But Holgado was able to hit back, and it went down to the drag to the line.

Looking for one more shot at second, Piqueras took a different line round the final corner and the two headed for the flag side-by-side, split over the line by just 0.013 as Holgado just held on. In doing so the #96 retains the points lead, but Piqueras still takes that maiden Grand Prix podium on only his third Grand Prix start. Alonso, meanwhile, takes his second win of the season to move to just two points off Holgado in the standings.

Yamanaka took fourth, his best GP result yet, ahead of a gap back to David Muñoz(BOE Motorsports), Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and Kelso after the Australian remounted but then got an LLP becoming a time penalty for the early race incident with Holgado. Rookie Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull GAGAS Tech3) took P8 ahead of fellow debutant Joel Esteban (CFMoto Valresa Aspar Team), with Bertelle able to complete the top ten despite those three Long Laps – and only half a tenth ahead of fellow triple LLP server Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing).

After a masterclass from Alonso but some great damage limitation amongst the drama for Holgado, the latter now leads the former by two points heading to Jerez. The Spanish GP will be a classic, so tune in in just under two weeks for more Moto3™!

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Prado Fights Back To Win Again While Everts Claims A Sweet Victory In Trentino

Frank Duggan

April 15, 2024

One of the classic venues of the MXGP World Motocross Championships, the incredible Crossodromo “Il Ciclomino” near the town of Arco, hosted the fourth round of the series this weekend in front of a full crowd of exuberant fans from all across Europe! Following Saturday’s dramatic RAM Qualifying Races which saw problems for both red plate holders, the tension was mounting to see if the chasers could continue to cut back the points lead in Sunday’s Grand Prix races.

Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing team leader Jorge Prado had issues on Saturday which left him with zero point from the RAM Qualifying Race. His pursuers smelt blood and struck first as Romain Febvre for the Kawasaki Racing Team and Tim Gajser for Team HRC both overtook the reigning Champ in race one. However, a poor start for the Slovenian and a crash for the Frenchman allowed the Spaniard to win race two, and the overall for the fourth Grand Prix in a row.

In MX2, red plate holder Kay de Wolf took another dominant win in race one for Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing, but a first corner crash left him out of the overall picture. His chief Championship rival, Simon Laengenfelder, took the second race win from a clear holeshot for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing, but it was Liam Everts who took the overall Grand Prix with a solid 3-2 scorecard, the first GP win of the year for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing.

Even with the 17th gate pick, there was no denying Jorge Prado the amazing start that he is so good at, and he claimed the Fox Holeshot Award for the fifth time this season, just holding off Febvre, as Gajser quickly moved past both Benoit Paturel on the De Baets Yamaha and Valentin Guillod on the Team Ship to Cycle Honda to get to third!

The reigning World Champion looked like he was making his usual swift getaway, but Febvre closed in and pressurised the Spaniard into a mistake which allowed the Frenchman through on lap seven! Gajser was not out of the equation either, and two laps later, in direct sight of the hillside packed with his travelling fans, cut inside the red plate holder in a solid move that Prado had no answer to, sending the noise level up several notches!

Behind the top three, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings took his time to get going and battled through from 9th at the end of the first lap. Passing his countryman Calvin Vlaanderen on the lone Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP machine, and finally Kawasaki Racing Team’s Jeremy Seewer with three laps to go, “The Bullet” finished the race in fourth.

In the closing stages of race one, Gajser reeled in Febvre, sending his supporters wild as he nearly made a move for the lead in the very last corner! Ultimately the Kawasaki man held on to take his first GP race win of the year, while Tim’s second place knocked the points lead down to just six going into race two!

Once again, however, the reigning Champion fired into the lead, making it six Fox Holeshot Awards for the year already, in race two, but Febvre was right with him again! Herlings span sideways and to the floor exiting turn two, and would face a long charge through the pack, ultimately finishing seventh, and sixth overall.

Vlaanderen was in a strong third, and was looking to challenge Febvre, but the Frenchman dropped his lap times to chase down Prado again, nearly passing him after the big uphill triple jump before the Spaniard closed the door! On lap six, he pushed the Kawasaki’s front wheel just too hard into a right hander and it broke away to put him on the ground!

Prado eased away, playing with the track and building his lead to a maximum of five seconds over a rapid Vlaanderen, who closed to two seconds at the flag for his best result yet on the factory Yamaha. Seewer’s third was also his best of the year so far, as Gajser and Febvre could not advance any higher than 4th & 5th respectively, and they would have to settle for the bottom two steps of the podium.

So from the difficult start to the weekend, Prado still comes away with the Grand Prix win, the 42nd of his career and his 11th in the MXGP class. More importantly, no-one else has managed to beat him to the top step all season and he now leads the Championship by 13 points from Gajser, with Febvre a further 32 behind, in third.

Jorge Prado: “Starting from P17 wasn’t easy but I’m a good starter so I had to prove it today. First race I didn’t really have a good flow, I tried but it was sketchy and the guy were riding better than myself and finished in front of me. In the second race, with a little bike adjustment that we made together with the team I felt better and everything clicked. Such a good start in second race with a good battle with Febvre until he fell. Another win and in difficult condition where we had to turn it around so great job guys!”

Romain Febvre: “I was pushing in this second because I felt I was faster. Trying to make some pass was difficult but yeah, I tried my best and also I was careful on that corner but I lost the front and went back to fifth. I was close to Tim (Gajser) sometimes when I tried to catch him but not easy to make a difference. So, a little bit disappointed of course to not win the GP as I won the RAM Qualifying and Race 1 but I’m on the podium and I scored good point over the weekend. Let’s go for the next round!”

Tim Gajser: “It’s okay, I’m happy to be on the podium and I scored good points for the Championship but I definitely wanted more. Second race I didn’t get the fastest start and almost crashed in the first corner and banged bars in the first laps as well but I managed to get back to 4^th. It was not an easy race; it was not easy to pass either but anyway happy to be here. Let’s go to Agueda for the next one and I’m looking forward to it. The fans were amazing here today and a huge thank you to all to come here to support me.”

MXGP – Race 1 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Romain Febvre (FRA, Kawasaki), 35:02.471; 2. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), +0:00.387; 3. Jorge Prado (ESP, GASGAS), +0:18.031; 4. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), +0:24.651; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Kawasaki), +0:26.649; 6. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, Yamaha), +0:33.245; 7. Valentin Guillod (SUI, Honda), +0:55.858; 8. Pauls Jonass (LAT, Honda), +1:02.460; 9. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, Fantic), +1:06.503; 10. Ben Watson (GBR, Beta), +1:14.559

MXGP – Race 2 – Top 10 Classification1. Jorge Prado (ESP, GASGAS), 35:03.734; 2. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, Yamaha), +0:02.042; 3. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Kawasaki), +0:07.956; 4. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), +0:11.825; 5. Romain Febvre (FRA, Kawasaki), +0:18.595; 6. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, Fantic), +0:30.167; 7. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), +0:46.646; 8. Benoit Paturel (FRA, Yamaha), +0:56.321; 9. Valentin Guillod (SUI, Honda), +1:00.355; 10. Pauls Jonass (LAT, Honda), +1:02.018

MXGP Overall – Top 10 Classification: 1. Jorge Prado (ESP, GAS), 45 points; 2. Romain Febvre (FRA, KAW), 41 p.; 3. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 40 p.; 4. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, YAM), 37 p.; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, KAW), 36 p.; 6. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 32 p.; 7. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, FAN), 27 p.; 8. Valentin Guillod (SUI, HON), 26 p.; 9. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HON), 24 p.; 10. Benoit Paturel (FRA, YAM), 23 p

MXGP World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Jorge Prado (ESP, GAS), 219 points; 2. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 206 p.; 3. Romain Febvre (FRA, KAW), 174 p.; 4. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 164 p.; 5. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HON), 142 p.; 6. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, KAW), 141 p.; 7. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, YAM), 131 p.; 8. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, FAN), 118 p.; 9. Valentin Guillod (SUI, HON), 88 p.; 10. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, HON), 82 p

MXGP Manufacturers – Top 10 Classification: 1. GASGAS, 219 points; 2. Honda, 210 p.; 3. Kawasaki, 187 p.; 4. KTM, 164 p.; 5. Yamaha, 154 p.; 6. Fantic, 118 p.; 7. Beta, 81 p.; 8. Husqvarna, 9 p

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing had taken the RAM Qualifying Race win with Andrea Adamo, but for the fifth time this season it was his teammate Sacha Coenen who fired into the lead from the start, chased by Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 rider Thibault Benistant and Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing’s red plate holder Kay de Wolf!

An aggressive move from De Wolf put him past Benistant, but it took him until lap five to make a move on Sacha, as the young Belgian seems to be building his confidence running at the front. It wasn’t until lap 12 that Benistant got through into second, and the corner after Adamo pushed past saw the Champ argue with the bank and drop to an eventual 8th! Sadly, just as it looked like Sacha would claim a top three finish, he suffered a bike issue which left him unable to finish.

Mikkel Haarup was in a great third for Monster Energy Triumph Racing, but a strange issue slowed him dramatically on the final lap, and he dropped to an eventual 9th, leaving Liam Everts to claim third, just reward for a consistent push through the pack from outside the top ten, with Rick Elzinga a season’s best fourth for Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2, and Camden McLellan salvaging fifth for the Triumph team.

In the end, no-one had an answer to De Wolf who won by 3.7 seconds from Benistant, and as Simon Laengenfelder could only muster 8th place for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing, the championship lead stretched to 38 points for the Dutchman! His teammate, Lucas Coenen, rode through the pain of a shoulder injury to finish in 10th position.

Laengenfelder was desperate to make amends in race two, and fired into the lead to claim his first Fox Holeshot Award of the season. To help his cause further, the points leader De Wolf was picking up his bike in turn one, part of a pile-up that also involved Sacha Coenen, Elzinga, and Laengenfelder’s teammate Marc-Antoine Rossi.

The German took a leaf out of his teammate Prado’s book with a blistering display of speed that left his pursuers with no hope of catching, and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 rookie Andrea Bonacorsi was a stunning second around the first lap to the delight of his home fans! It took Everts 13 minutes to get past the reigning EMX250 Champion, and the top three stayed the same from there!

De Wolf charged through to an eventual 8th, just one place ahead of his teammate Lucas Coenen, who lost third in the series by a single point to Benistant. Both of the factory Husqvarna men hit the floor in the last ten minutes, but Adamo fared little better, unable to climb any higher than sixth, behind Haarup in fifth.

Benistant’s fourth position left him second overall, his first taste of podium for more than ten months. Bonacorsi scored his first ever top three finish in a GP race, but it was Everts who enjoyed the GP victory for the fourth time in his career, and for the third time with a 3-2 card, and he will be extremely happy to climb to 7th in the table after missing the first round with his thumb injury.

Laengenfelder has closed the gap to 26 points behind De Wolf, and whilst none of the current MX2 line-up has won in Portugal, the Dutchman will draw confidence from his podium there last season as the pack try to chase him down at the next round!

Liam Everts: “I’m lost for words; I really didn’t expect to win it. I wasn’t riding the best in the second race, I felt nervous but now that is done it feels right to get that out of the way and win here in such a special venue.”

Thibault Benistant: “Finally I’m on the box. It took some time but it’s a great feeling. I had some timings on Saturday but I would still like to rider a bit freer. But I’m happy and the positive is that it’s getting better and better every weekend and I’m slowly getting where I want to be.”

Simon Laengenfelder: “The second race was great and I showed what I can do after a good start and I finally got the job done. I was feeling good and making good laps and I thought I had good speed. I was not very happy about the first one but I’m on the podium which is really good.”

MX2 – Race 1 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), 35:12.455; 2. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), +0:03.750; 3. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:19.196; 4. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +0:26.799; 5. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:30.335; 6. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GASGAS), +0:34.627; 7. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), +0:36.018; 8. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +0:37.011; 9. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +0:41.553; 10. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), +1:15.744

MX2 – Race 2 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), 35:31.370; 2. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:09.983; 3. Andrea Bonacorsi (ITA, Yamaha), +0:13.617; 4. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), +0:19.384; 5. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +0:21.955; 6. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), +0:27.684; 7. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:31.888; 8. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), +0:42.907; 9. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), +0:48.663; 10. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), +0:55.359

MX2 Overall – Top 10 Classification: 1. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 42 points; 2. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 40 p.; 3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 38 p.; 4. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 38 p.; 5. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 30 p.; 6. Andrea Bonacorsi (ITA, YAM), 29 p.; 7. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 29 p.; 8. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 28 p.; 9. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 26 p.; 10. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 23

MX2 World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 213 points; 2. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 187 p.; 3. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 148 p.; 4. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 147 p.; 5. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 139 p.; 6. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 131 p.; 7. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 128 p.; 8. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 126 p.; 9. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 110 p.; 10. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GAS), 101 p

MX2 Manufacturers – Top 10 Classification: 1. Husqvarna, 217 points; 2. GASGAS, 189 p.; 3. KTM, 183 p.; 4. Yamaha, 158 p.; 5. Triumph, 156 p.; 6. Kawasaki, 71 p.; 7. Honda, 51 p.; 8. Fantic, 46 p.; 9. TM, 8 p

All the photos from the MXGP of Trentino will be available HERE

You can find the complete results HERE

MXGP OF TRENTINO QUICK FACTS:

Crowd Attendance: 33,000

Circuit length: 1750m

Type of ground: Hard Pack

Temperature: 29°

Weather conditions: Sunny

For more news check out our dedicated MXGP/MX2 News page

Or visit the official MXGP website mxgp.com

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

Frank Duggan

April 14, 2024

Unleashing the Power: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

In the world of modern classic motorcycles, few names hold the same level of reverence and admiration as Royal Enfield. With a heritage spanning over a century, Royal Enfield has become synonymous with timeless design, unmatched performance, and an unbeatable riding experience. One of their latest offerings, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, has taken the motorcycling world by storm. Combining classic beauty with modern engineering, this bike truly represents the best of both worlds..

Read item by subscribing to latest issue of Modern Classic Motorcycle News info below

Viñales sprints to victory as Marquez holds off Martin

Frank Duggan

April 14, 2024

Unstoppable on Saturday: rivals have no answer for the #12 as the Aprilia rider storms to a second Saturday win in succession.

Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) is now a back-to-back Tissot Sprint winner! The #12 started from a lap record pole, took off at full chat and never looked back at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, leaving the King of COTA – Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) – to battle it out for second on Saturday. That battle for second pitted the eight-time World Champion against rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) first, and then Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), but Marquez dug in and held on for P2. Martin was able to get ahead of the rookie by the flag too, further extending his points lead.

As the lights went out, there was potential for some statement moves at Turn 1, but for the Sprint it was a drama-free get away and for Viñales more than anyone. Top Gun was off like a shot to take the lead, with Marquez pipping Acosta at Turn 1 and the trio able to stay just comfortably clear of Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Martin.

Martin was the rider on the move in the early stages, getting past Bastianini when the gap to Acosta was hovering around a second and starting to hunt down the leading trio. By the time he’d cut that gap in half, Viñales was already over a second clear at the front, ominous from the off.

By seven to go, Marquez had Acosta and Martin for serious company, with the machines all locked together as they snaked round the mammoth Circuit of the Americas. The rookie didn’t take long to try a move either, attacking with five to go, but the number 93 was ready and repelled him on the cutback. That was Martin’s signal to try his own move and the #89 sliced past Acosta just before the back straight, shutting the door firmly on a reply and locking his sights on Marquez.

Up in the lead, Batmav was gone. Viñales’ lead was increasing and increasing until it hit the two second mark, where it then stayed within a few tenths here and there as his awesome pace continued. Neither the king of COTA nor the king of the Tissot Sprint had an answer on Saturday, with the #12 crossing the line for a second Sprint win in succession to depose both on the same day. Those 20 points from Sunday in Portugal forced to go AWOL on the last lap now seem even more expensive, with Viñales now 36 off the top instead of second overall.

Second on the road at COTA, meanwhile, went to Marquez. The #93 had enough in hand to make sure Martin had no chance to attack, although the Championship leader extended his advantage with third place. Acosta was forced to settle for fourth, able to hold off a late charge from Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing).

Bastianini came P6 at the head of a freight train fight late on. The ‘Beast’ duelled Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) on the last lap and was able to hold the Aussie off to the line, with reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) forced to follow both home after a tough day at the office. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse Racing) was next home in that tightly packed battle, taking the final Sprint point just ahead of a first top ten of the year for Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) as he starts to creep more and more into contention after missing pre-season.

Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) had a technical problem and retired early, and Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), Takaaki Nakagami (Idemitsu Honda LCR) and Castrol Honda LCR’s Johann Zarco all crashed out, riders ok.

They’ll all be looking for some redemption on Sunday, and the likes of Bagnaia will hope to pull that classic magic out the hat to come out swinging too. Looking at Viñales’ pace, it’s going to take a lot to stop the steamroller… but Marquez, Martin and Acosta will most definitely be ready to try.

Tune in for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas Grand Prix race at 14:00 (UTC -5) to see if Batmav can make history as the first rider to win with three factories in the MotoGP™ era – or who has a joker up their sleeve to stop him.

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

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

Canet steals a late pole position from Aldeguer

Frank Duggan

April 14, 2024

Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) stole pole position in the closing moments of qualifying, setting a fantastic 2:07.631 to overhaul compatriot Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp).

The #54 ended the session 0.109 adrift after spending most of the session at the top of the timesheets. Qatar podium finisher Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) ended the session in third for second front-row start in the Moto2™ class.

For much of the session it looked like Aldeguer was going to pocket a first pole position of the season, but Canet’s late flyer saw the title chase leader earn a Saturday P1 – his second of the campaign, denying the Boscoscuro charge that completes the front row.

Albert Arenas (QJMotor Gresini Moto2) heads the second row of the grid after a fantastic final lap to place the Spaniard in fourth, losing out on a front-row start by just 0.046. Home hero Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) rounded out the top five as the American gets set for a podium push in front of the American fans, as teammate Marcos Ramirez had to settle for P6 after making a mistake coming out of the final corner what looked to be a rapid last lap.

Dennis Foggia (Italtrans Racing Team) starts P7, just over a tenth off Ramirez, with the Italian continuing his strong weekend on Saturday afternoon. Alonso Lopez launches from P8 on the second Beta Tools SpeedUp machine, with Portimao polesitter Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Racing Moto2™) rounding out the third row. 2023 Americas GP podium finisher Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika GAS UP Team) completes the top 10.

The stage is set, so tune in for the intermediate class showdown at COTA at 12:15 (UTC -5)!

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Alonso takes first pole to make some history for Colombia

Frank Duggan

April 14, 2024

Thanks to David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team), Colombia have a debut Grand Prix pole position to celebrate as the #80 left it late to bag a first Saturday P1!

Alonso launches ahead of key rivals Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo), who was just 0.017 adrift in P2, and Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) completing the front row.

After topping Practice by 0.3s, Alonso was the rider to beat heading into qualifying. And so it proved in the early exchanges. Alonso sat P1 but Rueda then turned up the wick and put his #99 KTM on provisional pole, until Alonso responded to claim a debut pole position in Moto3™. Holgado was a big late mover too, the Championship leader bagged P3 on his last lap.

Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) will head the second row of the grid, with Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) keeping up his good qualifying record in 2024 to earn a P5. The Australian is joined on Row 2 by his compatriot Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), the rookie having a mega session to claim his best qualifying result of the season in P6. He has a Long Lap, however, and Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team), who will begin Sunday’s race from seventh, will need to complete three Long Lap penalties during the race after before found to be riding slow on line. For the full penalties, check out the Sportity app used by the FIM MotoGP™ Stewards.

BOE Motorsports’ David Muñoz will start the race in P8, with Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) and Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) rounding out the top 10. Following a drama-filled weekend, including experiencing bike issues in qualifying, last year’s Americas GP winner Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) has to fight for a podium from P14.

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Herfoss, Wyman Split Wins In King Of The Baggers Challenge At COTA

Frank Duggan

April 14, 2024

Herfoss Takes Race One, Wyman Turns The Tables In Race Two After Two Epic Texas Battles.

Fittingly, the top two men in the 2024 Mission King Of The Baggers Championship split victories today at Circuit of The Americas with S&S/Indian Motorcycle’s Troy Herfoss and Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s Kyle Wyman each winning a race on a sunny Saturday in Texas.

It was Herfoss winning the first of the two races after a come-from-behind ride that saw him at the back of the seven-strong lead pack early in the race. The Australian soldiered on, slicing and dicing his way through the pack and coming out on top of a hectic last-lap battle with his teammate Tyler O’Hara and Wyman. At the finish line it was Herfoss by .295 of a second over Wyman with O’Hara .685 of a second behind the winner in third place.

Herfoss, Wyman Split Wins In King Of The Baggers Challenge At Cota — Troy Herfoss celebrates after his come-from-behind victory in race one at COTA. The win was the Australian’s first in the Mission King Of The Baggers series. Photo by Brian J. Nelson

Wyman’s teammate James Rispoli and RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Hayden Gillim were a shadow fourth and fifth and separated by just .145 of a second.

Gillim’s rookie teammate Rocco Landers was a lonely sixth with SDI/Roland Sands Racing/Indian Motorcycles’ Bobby Fong managing to nurse his blown-up motorcycle to seventh. The team would work as fast as possible between race one and two to get Fong back on the grid.

Saddlemen/Harley-Davidson’s Cory West, RydFast Racing’s Kyle Ohnsorg and Mad Monkey Motorsports’s Max Flinders rounded out the top 10.

“Firstly, it’s an honor to be standing here today with my first win, especially with these two great competitors,” Herfoss said after his first-ever Mission King Of The Baggers victory. “There are more wins between these two guys than I dream of having. So, to get my first win here in COTA at MotoGP is a great feeling. To answer your question, yeah, it did feel like I was out of it. I’ve got a lot of days on the bike now. There’re no excuses to not be able to be competitive, but I don’t have a lot of experience racing because Daytona was not really a race in the infield. It was a race to get to the outfield. So, I didn’t see the true speed of these riders in the infield a lot of time, whereas today there were six guys going toe-to-toe, fighting at their best pace. So, I couldn’t ride the lap they were riding. I could not ride my bike the same way the guys in front of me could ride their bikes, even between the different manufacturers.

“I know it’s a short race, but I spent the first two laps just confused. Over-riding the corners, over-riding the braking. I didn’t concede, but I sort of sat back to take a breather. Got nabbed by Bobby Fong and went, ‘okay, it’s time. I’ve got make something of this.’ Honestly, once I started riding my own race it became a lot easier to make my passes. I knew that if I could sneak through on Tyler (O’Hara) behind Kyle (Wyman) I could see that Kyle was calculating what he was going to do with Tyler. I knew that was my only hope because I didn’t have better speed than Kyle. I just knew that if I could get him by surprise… Just because Kyle, Tyler and I are riding a different lap, even on the same bike. You’ve got to take them when you can get them. I fought as hard as I could. It’s a real privilege to be up here on the top step.”

Wyman turned the tables on Herfoss in the second race as those two sped away from the chasing group, setting up a battle between the two that went to the finish. Herfoss led most of it, but Wyman, after an attempted pass at the end of the backstraight didn’t pan out, finally pulled off a pass on the final lap. At that point, Wyman put his head down and set sail, though Herfoss was still within striking distance.

Wyman wasn’t to be denied this time around and he saved his best for last with a record-breaking lap of 2:14.890 sealing his victory, albeit by just .677 of a second over Herfoss.

Behind those two came an epic battle for the final podium spot between Rispoli and Fong with Rispoli getting the spot by less than half a second. O’Hara and Gillim were also in the mix with O’Hara topping Gillim for fifth. Gillim’s teammate Landers ended up seventh.

Ohnsorg, Flinders and West rounded out the top 10.

“Obviously, we’re super happy,” Wyman said after his 15^th career Mission King Of The Baggers victory. “To come out of the first two rounds with this many points is a big deal. It was a good race. I got a worse start today, so I had to be more patient. Like I said on the podium, really learned my lesson in September. I really panicked when I got shuffled back and it cost me a championship, potentially. That’s just experience. You can’t rush or pay for it, and I was just patient today and luckily didn’t get caught up in the melee behind me. The Mission Challenge, I was in that, and it was just a joke. You can’t do anything. These guys are gone at the front if they get clean air. Tried to just methodically work my way forward. Got up to Troy (Herfoss) and then he started clicking off good laps. It started to grow the gap from myself back to third. So, that’s always a good feeling because you’ve got some breathing room, and you can start to plan things out. I didn’t really know where I was going to make a move. I was really indecisive. As calculated as I may have looked, I was like, ‘I don’t really know where I’m going to go. I’m just going to go when it feels right.’ I made one move down into 12 off the back straightaway. Got a good run. Got a good draft there. Overcooked it a little bit. He came back underneath me. Last lap, I felt like I had pace in the esses, so I wanted to try him in turn one and see if I could lead the whole rest of the lap, and that’s what we were able to do. So, pretty happy, obviously. Big thanks to Harley- Davidson, the whole team. They’ve just done an incredible job sticking with it this weekend. Doing a new track record on the last lap of the race, as hot as it was, is a great feeling and hopefully a sign of things to come.”

Race One

Troy Herfoss (Indian)
Kyle Wyman (Harley-Davidson)
Tyler O’Hara (Indian)
James Rispoli (Harley-Davidson)
Hayden Gillim (Harley-Davidson)
Rocco Landers (Harley-Davidson)
Bobby Fong (Indian)
Cory West (Harley-Davidson)
Kyle Ohnsorg (Indian)
Max Flinders (Indian)

Race Two

Kyle Wyman (Harley-Davidson)
Troy Herfoss (Indian)
James Rispoli (Harley-Davidson)
Bobby Fong (Indian)
Tyler O’Hara (Indian)
Hayden Gillim (Harley-Davidson)
Rocco Landers (Harley-Davidson)
Kyle Ohnsorg (Indian)
Max Flinders (Indian)
Cory West (Harley-Davidson)

Championship Leaders Struggle as Adamo and Febvre Take Ram Qualifying Wins

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

The sun shone again for MXGP in the beautiful setting of the Garda mountains for round four, the MXGP of Trentino, and in front of the natural hillsides that were already crammed full of fans, the RAM Qualifying Race wins were taken by new riders for this season! Romain Febvre was victorious in MXGP for the Kawasaki Racing Team, with the MX2 battle being won by home favourite Andrea Adamo as he fended off a late charge from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Liam Everts to send the Italian fans home in a very happy mood!

Featuring a beautiful retrospective white, pink, and purple livery for Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team this weekend, Calvin Vlaanderen topped the time sheets in Free Practice. His speed would carry into Time Practice where he grabbed third position behind Febvre in 2nd. The Frenchman’s late run brought him to within 0.816 seconds of the lead. However, with a mid-session surge that put him 1.8 seconds clear at the time, Jorge Prado once more took the first gate pick for the afternoon race and looked tough to beat for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing.

As with last week, it was a green bike firing into the lead from the gate as Febvre took the holeshot this time, with Prado and Fantic Factory Racing’s Glenn Coldenhoff in hot pursuit! Valentin Guillod was up in 4th early on the Ship-to-Cycle Honda but crashed dramatically after being passed by Team HRC’s Tim Gajser! The Slovenian pleased his many fans present by then moving past the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Jeffrey Herlings.

After a fall in last year’s RAM Qualifying Race at this circuit, Prado had further issues in 2024! Losing the seat from his machine over the finish line jump, he had to do a full lap stood on the pegs and lost positions dramatically before pulling into the pits where his technicians did their work quickly!

At around half-distance, Gajser managed to leap over Coldenhoff’s head as the Dutchman couldn’t clear the big uphill triple jump after turn two, but the Fantic man held Herlings back to claim his best finish of the year so far in third.

With Prado losing his seat for a second time on the final lap, after working his way back to 17th position, it means that his championship lead over Gajser is more than halved, from 17 down to just 8 points! Febvre’s win, a repeat of the result here last year, pulls the Frenchman into 3rd ahead of Herlings and now lies 41 behind the Spaniard, who will surely look for redemption in Sunday’s main Grand Prix races – not to be missed!

Romain Febvre: “I felt good with a good start too. It’s so important and what we need because on some track we match the speed. Time practice was really close and I knew I had to get a good start. In the end we made it! I made a good gap and how they say I controlled the race. I’m happy and we mark some good points so let’s go for tomorrow! “

MXGP – RAM Qualifying Race – Top 10 Classification: 1. Romain Febvre (FRA, Kawasaki), 23:59.700; 2. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), +0:11.938; 3. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, Fantic), +0:17.103; 4. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), +0:20.379; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Kawasaki), +0:22.054; 6. Pauls Jonass (LAT, Honda), +0:24.532; 7. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, Yamaha), +0:43.021; 8. Cornelius Toendel (NOR, KTM), +0:45.553; 9. Valentin Guillod (SUI, Honda), +0:47.230; 10. Ben Watson (GBR, Beta), +0:49.344

MXGP – World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Jorge Prado (ESP, GAS), 174 points; 2. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 166 p.; 3. Romain Febvre (FRA, KAW), 133 p.; 4. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 132 p.; 5. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HON), 118 p.; 6. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, KAW), 105 p.; 7. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, YAM), 94 p.; 8. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, FAN), 91 p.; 9. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, HON), 64 p.; 10. Maxime Renaux (FRA, YAM), 63 p

It was that red plate holder again in MX2, the Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing machine of Kay de Wolf, who was fastest in Free Practice while his teammate Lucas Coenen struggled to just 12th. However, in Time Practice it was the turn of the series leader to taste some dirt, and he had to straighten out his machine before setting a time good enough for 5th place. A final lap dash for Thibault Benistant put the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 Team leader into pole position for the RAM Qualifying Race. The Monster Energy Triumph Racing riders, Mikkel Haarup and Camden McLellan, again showed great pace to go 2nd & 4th, with Marc-Antoine Rossi of Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing splitting them in 3rd.

The frantic action continued in the RAM Qualifying Race as the familiar sight of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Sacha Coenen launched into the lead from the start, with his teammate Adamo right on his case! Rick Elzinga pushed past the World Champion briefly on the opening lap, with Everts and Haarup also close behind. Adamo got back through and chased after Sacha, while Lucas Coenen suddenly started touring and pulled into the pits, so far without an obvious explanation.

De Wolf had to work from outside of the top ten and got through to 6th at the flag, but on lap 7 Adamo was able to launch the big triple jump when Sacha Coenen couldn’t, and in the following corner the young Belgian clipped the Italian’s rear wheel and hit the floor! He would eventually recover to finish 8th.

Simon Laengenfelder moved forward for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing, passing Haarup in a great cutback move! Then, on the last lap, both riders went past Elzinga, who slipped from third to fifth in the space of two corners! Third for the German, with Haarup fourth, gave him a three-point gain over De Wolf to reduce the gap to 26 points in the chase for the Championship.

Everts showed his best speed so far this year to reel in his teammate in the closing laps, but in the end it was last year’s GP winner and Champion that took his first RAM Qualifying Race win of the season to pass Benistant, who finished 9th after getting stuck on the gate, for 4th in the series. Adamo’s home fans are certainly looking forward to seeing if he can repeat his 2023 victory here tomorrow!

Andrea Adamo: “It was a pretty strange race at the beginning I wasn’t feeling the best but then I went into my rhythm and I thought that it was my time. I passed Sacha as the ones behind were catching up! I’m super happy. The track is not easy to make a difference but I am super happy with my first RAM Qualifying win especially after last weekend and I’m pretty confident for tomorrow!”

MX2 – RAM Qualifying Race – Top 10 Classification: 1. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 24:15.482; 2. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:00.470; 3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +0:09.245; 4. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +0:09.697; 5. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +0:15.397; 6. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), +0:17.791; 7. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GASGAS), +0:18.454; 8. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), +0:20.584; 9. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), +0:21.137; 10. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:21.338

MX2 – World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 175 points; 2. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 149 p.; 3. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 124 p.; 4. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 110 p.; 5. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 108 p.; 6. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 103 p.; 7. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 96 p.; 8. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 86 p.; 9. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GAS), 84 p.; 10. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 84 p

MXGP OF TRENTINO QUICK FACTS:
Circuit length: 1570m
Type of ground: Hard Pack
Temperature: 28°
Weather conditions: Sunny

TIMETABLE

SUNDAY: 09:45 EMX125 Race 2, 10:25 MX2 Warm-up, 10:45 MXGP Warm-up, 11:30 EMX250 Race 2, 13:15 MX2 Race 1, 14:15 MXGP Race 1, 16:10 MX2 Race 2, 17:10 MXGP Race 2.

For more news check out our dedicated MXGP/MX2 News page

Or visit the official MXGP website mxgp.com

All-time classic: dramatic COTA Q2 sees Viñales supreme

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

All-time classic: dramatic COTA Q2 sees Viñales supreme ahead of Acosta & Marquez.

Top spot for Top Gun as Martin crashes twice, Acosta takes his first front row, Marquez denies Bagnaia and Binder faces a fight back in Texas.

Qualifying for the 2024 Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas was a true classic, with a dash of drama and a dash of magic creating an incredible grid for lights out in Austin. On pole position is Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing), who smashed the lap record set on Friday by half a second to carve out his own postcode at the front, three tenths clear in Q2. His pole lap is also a second quicker than pole in 2023. In second is rookie sensation Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), who takes his first premier class front row as his pace in Austin continues to awe. And completing that front row is eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) after his first qualifying top three with Ducati, aiming for an eighth win at COTA.

Just behind the #93 on the timesheets is reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), but sat directly behind him, with the #93 blocking his view up to Turn 1, is Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) in P6. There were two crashes for the #89 in Q2.

Q1
The first qualifying session was packed full of contenders looking for a way through, not least of all Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder – second in the Championship heading into COTA. The South African’s session didn’t get off to the best start as he slid off in a low drama crash though, leaving him in a race against time to get back out and move up the grid.

Once everyone was back out for that final push, it was close as ever. Red sectors lit up the timing screens and none more so than for Binder’s teammate Jack Miller, with the Australian wrestling his RC16 round to take over on top – tucked in behind the South African on track too. For Binder it wasn’t to be though, and he’ll start P17 for both showdowns at COTA.

Miller’s final challenge came from Alex Marquez as the Gresini Racing MotoGP™ rider took the second place in Q2, just 0.012 off the Australian but that enough to move through into the fight for pole.

Q2
12 riders, one pole position, and plenty of simmering rivalries. Q2 delivered an immediate small dash of drama for Championship leader Martin as he slid out from just ahead of Marc Marquez, but the number 89 was able to pick it back up and carry on. Marquez then went on to put in a fast one too, but it wasn’t the fastest. That first honour went to Viñales, with the Aprilia slamming in a 2:01.243 to better MM93’s first effort by just 0.023. There would be no foregone conclusion.

Once Martin had picked it up and hit the gas again though, he was motoring in the first sector. But then there was more drama for the points leader, with the Pramac sliding off again at Turn 18. Rider ok once again, but this time it was a race against time to head back to the paddock to try and reset on his second machine.

Back out on track, the session belonged to Top Gun. After duelling Martin for Friday honours and just coming up short, Viñales had a big reply on Saturday. The #12 Aprilia shot round COTA for a new all-time record, shaving nearly half a second off Martin’s record set earlier in the weekend. Gauntlet thrown, statement made, and pole position surely secured.

In the end, it was. Martin couldn’t make another splash to take on the front row, Bagnaia came up short, and Acosta’s own best effort is a stunning statement in itself for a rookie, but it’s still 0.328 off Viñales – the lone star under the 2:00 barrier at COTA. Marquez had one final shot at it, seconds to spare over the line and with yellow flags gone, but after already having hammered it earlier on the same run, there was no more magic left in the tank.

THE GRID
Behind that Viñales – Acosta – Marquez front row teasing enough action in itself, there’s even more waiting in the wings. Bagnaia is one behind Marc Marquez on the timesheets but on track, he’s on the opposite side of the grid, lined up behind pole. He has teammate Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) alongside him, and then completing that second row – right behind Marc Marquez on the road – sits Martin.

Row 3 is Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) despite a crash near the end of Q2, with Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Mandalika VR46 Racing Team) and Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) alongside. Then comes Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Mandalika VR46 Racing Team) after a spill at T1, ahead of Miller and Alex Marquez in P11 and P12.

Then it’s Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez and Miguel Oliveira, who just missed the cut in Q1, lining up P13 and P14 for the team’s first ever home GP. Two-time MotoGP™ COTA winner Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) slots into P15, just ahead of teammate Fabio Quartararo, whose Q1 was also cut short by a low drama crash at Turn 1 on his final lap. Then comes Binder, searching for some serious progress once the lights go out as he looks to thread the needle from P17. And stop Martin’s lead growing -– unless someone else does that for him.

The lights go out for the first time on Saturday at 15:00 (UTC-5), before Sunday’s Grand Prix race gets underway at 14:00. It’s almost a guarantee there’ll be some history made this weekend, so do not miss a minute – we’ll save you a seat.

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

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

Jerez test produces promise of superb 18th Rookies Cup season

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

Beautiful sunshine and ultra-rapid track action in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup preseason test at Jerez has sparked the expectation of a sensational 18th season for the breading ground of World Champions.

26 of the world’s fastest teenagers, 15 of them new to the Moto3 spec KTMs, made full use of the 2 beautiful days on the same circuit that they will use for the first race weekend of the year at the end of the month.

Switching to Pirelli tyres gave even those who are in their 3rd year something to think about and perhaps helped compress the spread of lap times as the Cup looks forward to 14 races at 7 Grand Prix venues.

Gustl Auinger – Rider Coach

“We have had a really great test, we are always amazed at how quickly the new riders get up to speed but I think that is true this year more than ever. I don’t know why, it could have something to do with the age limit moving up but the guys are very serious, they are listening to what we say and doing a great job.”

“I am impressed with the professional attitude of our lads, it’s going to be a great, very competitive, close season.”

Dani Ribalta – Rider Coach

“It’s been a very good test, an intense two days, we are happy with the tyres, the guys found that they could go well on the used tyres and that’s important of course, important for safety.”

“We had good pace and hardly any crashes, we had a few at the end of the day today because the wind became quite strong as the guys were getting tired but it was not too much, most handled it very well.”

Álvaro Carpe

“I’ve got a super good feeling with my KTM,” enthused the 16-year-old Spaniard who was a very strong 2nd in the Cup last year, his debut season. “I’m very happy with the lap time and we are ready for the first race. I think the tyres are very good and I’m excited about the season.”

“It was a great test with a great result in the end. We did a lot of work because yesterday and this morning I was not happy with the bike at all. We improved a lot and even though the last sessions were very windy I still did my best times.”

“When we come back for the race there is still a bit of work to do and improvements we can make but this has been a great start.”

Rico Salmela

“I feel incredible, super happy with the test,” grinned the normally reserved 16-year-old Finn who starts his 3rd Cup season. “I have changed my riding style quite a bit I am more aggressive, less concerned with being smooth, more stop and go, late on brakes, early on the gas and I know it is faster.”

“We made some changes with the bike and it feels super good, three changes or so getting the front to work better. We are in a good position but I know we will still be working when we come back for the race.”

Milan Pawelec

The first Rookie from Poland shrugged off the responsibility of joining the Cup. “I love being here, it is a great experience from the start. I am really enjoying the KTM. Of course, it is different to the superbike that I rode last year but I am still finding that experience very useful.”

“I was learning the bike of course and we made quite a few changes and improved the front quite a lot.”

“I know that I’ve got to watch my weight this year, I need to be fast and now I don’t have a big superbike to pull me round,” added the 17-year-old with a laugh.

Carter Thompson

“I’m happy to be back on the Rookies Cup bike,” explained the 16-year-old Australian who begins his 2nd season. “It took a while to get up to speed again but I got quicker and quicker through the two days, I am happy now.”

“We changed some things on the bike and made a good step forward I think, it’s a track I really enjoy, a great variety of corners.”

“There is more we can do when we come back for the race but it’s a very good start.”

Guido Pini

“It’s been a very good test,” stated the 16-year-old Italian who is in his 2nd year as a Rookie. “I banged my arm today when I fell but it is nothing serious. I am enjoying the Pirellis, I think they are fast, we have to learn about how long the grip lasts and how to make the best use of them.”

“We didn’t change the bike very much I am happy with it and ready to start racing, I can’t wait.”

Entry List

4 Sullivan Mounsey (ENG)
5 Leo Rammerstorfer (AUT)
7 Rocco Sessler (GER)
11 Ruché Moodley (RSA)
13 Hakim Danish (MAL)
16 Joel Pons (ESP)
20 Jakkreephat Phuettisan (THA)
24 Guillem Planques (FRA)
27 Rico Salmela (FIN)
28 Màximo Quiles (ESP)
31 Giulio Pugliese (ITA)
44 Milan Pawelec (POL)
45 Kgopotso Mononyane (RSA)
47 Dodo Boggio (ITA)
48 Lennox Phommara (SUI)
50 Carter Thompson (AUS)
51 Brian Uriarte (ESP)
52 Evan Belford (ENG)
54 Veda Pratama (INA)
56 Kevin Farkas (HUN)
57 Leonardo Zanni (ITA)
70 Kristian Daniel (USA)
73 Valentin Perrone (ARG)
83 Alvaro Carpe (ESP)
94 Guido Pini (ITA)
95 Marco Morelli (ARG)

Calendar

April 27-28 Jerez – Spain
May 11-12 Le Mans – France
June 1-2 Mugello – Italy
June 29-30 Assen – Netherlands
August 17-18 Spielberg – Austria
Aug 31-Sep 1 Aragon – Spain
September 7-8 Misano – Italy

For more info checkout our dedicated Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup News page Rookies Cup News

Or visit the official Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup website rookiescup.redbull.com/

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup

Martin edges out Viñales, Marquez & Bagnaia split by 0.002

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

A duel at the top, a close contest for third and another stunning statement from Acosta? Friday at COTA delivers.

Friday at the Bull Grand Prix of the Americas was a duel at the top, and the shootout for direct entry to Q2 went to the wire as lap records fell in MotoGP™ Practice. Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) set a statement 2:01.397 to destroy the lap record by 0.495 and secure top honours by the end of the day, but that was still only enough to deny Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) by less than a tenth after a fast start for the Aprilia Racing rider, who also topped FP1 ahead of… Martin.

By the end of play there was another duel just behind them too, with Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) jumping up to third on his final lap but just 0.002 ahead of reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team).

With 10 minutes to go, a fair few big hitters looked safe enough, but Bagnaia was one of those outside the top 10. As the #1 has often managed before though, with less than two minutes on the clock he pulled out a 2:01.808, ultimately ending the session in fourth and oh so close to Marquez ahead.

Meanwhile, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) concluded a storming Friday with a late lunge into the top five, setting a fast lap seconds after Bagnaia to jump up the timesheets. Aprilia Racing’s Aleix Espargaro also found strong pace at the end of Friday, crossing the line to end Practice in sixth after a tougher opening session.

Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) will also have direct entry to Q2 for the first time since the British Grand Prix in 2023, setting a stunning 2:02.103 despite starting the season down on bike time after getting sidelined from pre-season testing. The Italian was ahead of compatriot Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), who nevertheless had spent most of the session inside the top five. Rounding out the top 10 at the end of Friday were the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team duo of Fabio Di Giannantonio and Marco Bezzecchi, who showed consistent pace throughout the day.

A competitive field, including Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders Brad Binder and Jack Miller, the former of whom is second in the Championship heading into COTA, now have to battle for the top two positions in Q1 on Saturday after they ended PR in P14 and P16, behind Trackhouse Racing’s Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez and split by Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). And that’s to name a few of those they’ll have to outpace to move through, which also includes the likes of two-time COTA winner Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and teammate Fabio Quartararo.

The stage is set for another super Saturday, with everything to play for in qualifying ahead of the Tissot Sprint. Who’ll come out on top? Tune in to find out!

FP2: 10:10 (UTC -5)
Q1: 10:50
Q2: 11.15
Tissot Sprint: 15:00

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

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

Aldeguer smashes Austin lap record on Friday

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

After a rollercoaster season so far, pre-season favourite Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) put in another statement Friday at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas as he looks for that elusive first win, or even podium, of the year.

Setting an unbelievable 2:08.359, he destroyed the lap record by 0.392. The Spaniard ended a fantastic session ahead of MT – Helmets MSI’s Sergio Garcia, who was 0.282 behind but also under the previous lap record. Dennis Foggia put in a great day for the Italtrans Racing Team in third, also spending most of the session inside the top five.

In fourth was Marcos Ramirez, ending the day as the top OnlyFans American Racing Team rider, with Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Asterius Aspar Team) rounding out the top five as he gets back in action in Austin. Barry Baltus (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) already a podium finisher this year, ended Practice 1 in sixth ahead of Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo), with Alonso Lopez on the second Beta Tools SpeedUp forced to settle for eighth.

Ai Ogura (MT – Helmets MSI) was in ninth as the chequered flag flew, ahead of Fanatic Racing’s Aron Canet as the Championship leader also suffered a crash in the last three minutes. Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) was 0.773 from the top spot, ahead of Filip Salač (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika GAS UP Team). Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) was the final rider who will provisionally head to Q2 on Saturday after making a mistake on his quickest lap.

The Moto2™ field will have one more opportunity to fight for a spot inside the top 14 at 9:25 local time (UTC -5) before qualifying begins at 13:45 (local time), so come back for more!

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Alonso doubles up on Day 1 in Austin

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) jumped to the top spot at the end of Friday, setting 14 laps in Practice 1 to hammer home his performance from Free Practice after he’d also started the day fastest. The Colombian’s 2:15.173 in the afternoon saw him edge out Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Jose Antonio Rueda, with Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) slotting into third after having been passed fit to ride.

It was a dramatic session, not least for the MT Helmets – MSI team, with Ryusei Yamanaka losing the front at turn 11, collecting teammate Ivan Ortola in the first 20 minutes, riders ok. Tatchakorn Buasri (Honda Team Asia) and Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) also crashed later in the afternoon, and the Thai rider will also need to have a medical review before being allowed back out.

Meanwhile, in the fight for the top, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3)’s name was missing until late on. The Championship leader was outside the top 14 with 10 minutes left on the clock but put in a sensational lap to place fourth by the end of play, with Ortola also bouncing back after a difficult Friday, ending Practice 1 in a remarkable fifth ahead of BOE Motorsports’ Joel Kelso as the Australian jumped from 17th to sixth in the last three minutes. Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) was top rookie in P7, ahead of David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) in eighth, after both riders also made contact at the start of the session.

Taiyo Furusato ends a successful Friday in ninth as he looks to find more Qatar form, ahead of LEVELUP – MTA’s Stefano Nepa, who rounded out the top 10. Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team), Yamanaka, Scott Ogden (MLav Racing) and David Almansa (Rivacold Snipers Team) round out the provisional Q2 spots.

Moto3™ will be back on track on Saturday morning at 8:40 local time (UTC -5), where riders will fight for the top 14 positions in Practice 2 before qualifying begins at 12:50 local time!

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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

Herfoss Takes Mission King Of The Baggers Challenge At COTA

Frank Duggan

April 13, 2024

Australian Troy Herfoss Takes Challenge Win, S&S Indian Motorcycle Teammate Tyler O’Hara Will Start Saturday’s Two Races From Pole Position.

After two hectic laps that featured plenty of bag banging, S&S Indian Motorcycle’s Troy Herfoss earned his first-ever Mission King Of The Baggers Challenge victory when he pulled clear of the melee behind him to win the three-lap dash for cash.

Herfoss was in the mix from the start and took full advantage of all the shenanigans that went on to gap the pack giving chase by 2.836 seconds.

SDI/Roland Sands Racing/Indian Motorcycle’s Bobby Fong ended up second with a last-lap pass on RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Hayden Gillim.

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s Kyle Wyman ended up fourth, .222 of a second behind Gillim and was the last man standing as the other two starters in the six-rider race failed to finish.

Pole-sitter Tyler O’Hara led off the start but put his hand up as he negotiated the esses to let the others know he had a problem that would take him out of the race.

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s James Rispoli, meanwhile, was out of the Challenge before it even started as a mechanical put him on the sidelines right off the start.

Only 15 minutes or so earlier, O’Hara showed in Q2 that he would be a force to be reckoned with as he shattered Wyman’s lap record of 2:15.461 with his 2:15.029. Wyman was a hair (.056 of a second) slower with his 2:15.085 and that was .491 of a second faster than Herfoss and his 2:15.576.

Wyman’s teammate Rispoli ended up fourth fastest with Fong fifth, Gillim sixth and RydFast Racing’s Kyle Ohnsorg seventh. RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Rocco Landers, Saddlemen/Harley-Davidson’s Travis Wyman and Mad Monkey Motorsports’ Max Flinders rounded out the top 10 qualifiers for Saturday’s two races

Mission Challenge
1. Troy Herfoss (Indian)
2. Bobby Fong (Indian)
3. Hayden Gillim (Harley-Davidson)
4. Kyle Wyman (Harley-Davidson)

Event preview: Unmissable EWC 2024 revved up for Le Mans

Frank Duggan

April 12, 2024

Big changes will bring big action to the FIM Endurance World Championship as one of the most wide-open seasons in recent EWC history revs up at Le Mans in France next week (18-21 April).

With multiple teams changing bikes or riders since the thrilling finale to the 2023 EWC title chase, the sport of motorcycle endurance racing just got even more unpredictable.

Although Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team will attempt to defend its EWC crown with an unchanged line-up of Niccolò Canepa, Marvin Fritz and Karel Hanika, several rival outfits have all made significant changes ahead of the 47th edition of the 24 Heures Motos.

Event Preview: Unmissable Ewc 2024 Revved Up For Le Mans — Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team

Yoshimura SERT Motul has recruited Dan Linfoot to replace Sylvain Guintoli, who joins BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team to take the ride vacated by KM99-bound Jérémy Guarnoni. Former MotoGP star Randy de Puniet also switches to KM99 with his former team, Kawasaki Webike Trickstar, adding Christian Gamarino and Róman Ramos to its attack.

Team Bolliger Switzerland’s commitment to young rider development continues following the signing of Alex Toledo. Martin Choy and Takeshi Ishizuka are new to Maco Racing’s 2024 challenge, while Motobox Kremer Racing and Wójcik Racing Team EWC have opted for all-German and all-Polish race riders with the Poland-based Wójcik organisation swapping Yamaha for Honda power.

BMRT3D maxxess Nevers steps up from the Superstock-based FIM Endurance World Cup to the top-level Formula EWC category and adds Jonathan Hardt to its line-up from 2023.

While there have been myriad rider changes in Formula EWC, F.C.C. TSR Honda France relies on the same trio that claimed victory in last season’s 24 Heures Motos, Mike Di Meglio, Josh Hook and Alan Techer. Continuity is also the name of the game for the top independent team from 2023, Honda Viltaïs Racing, which again names Florian Alt, Leandro Mercado and Steven Odendaal as its riders. And it heads to the 24 Heures Motos on a high after topping the times during the Pre-Test earlier this month. Previously a Kawasaki stalwart, Tati Team Beringer Racing will be Honda-powered in 2024.

Changes aplenty have been made in the FIM Endurance World Cup, in which all teams rely on tyres from official supplier Dunlop. Team 33 Louit April Moto has made three new rider signings for 2024 but retains Simone Saltarelli, part of its 2023 title-winning squad. Team 18 Sapeurs Pompiers CMS Motostore and Chromeburner-RAC41-Honda also have newcomers in their respective ranks.

TRT27 AZ Moto switches from Suzuki to Honda power and brings Isle of Man TT legend Michael Dunlop back to the EWC. Team Slider Endurance will also be Honda-equipped in 2024, the motorcycle of choice for the No Limits, National Motos, Mana-Au Competition and Wójcik teams.

JMA Racing Action Bike, Junior Team Le Mans Sud Suzuki, Team Players, Team 202 and Uniserv Moto82 Team continue their Superstock adventures, as do 3ART Best of Bike, ADSS97, Pit-Lane Endurance and Tecmas MRP BMW Racing Team, which claimed FIM Endurance World Cup honours at Le Mans last year.

TCP Racing and Team Racing 85 have permanent registrations for the first time, while the EWC represents unchartered territory for Team Étoile from Japan. Meanwhile, Team Aviobike is bringing the Aprilia name back to the EWC in partnership with Nuova M2 and Revo Racing Project.

STEP-UP SUPERSTARS READY FOR FORMULA EWC ACTION
Three riders with recent experience in the Superstock-based FIM Endurance World Cup will step up to the headlining Formula EWC category in 2024. Christian Gamarino joins Kawasaki Webike Trickstar having helped Team 33 Louit April Moto win the Endurance World Cup in 2023. Takeshi Ishizuka and his Maco Racing team-mate Martin Choy are also moving up, as are Loris Cresson, Jonathan Hardt and Julien Pilot along with their BMRT3D maxxess Nevers team. Marco Fetz and Daniel Rubin are both Formula EWC newcomers thanks to Motobox Kremer Racing. Kamil Krzemień, Jurand Kuśmierczyk and Artur Wielebski have all been given a chance to progress by Wójcik Racing Team.

REA RETURNS ONE YEAR AFTER EMOTIONAL PARADE LAP
Gino Rea received a guard of honour from his fellow EWC riders before going on to complete a highly emotional parade lap when he returned to Le Mans last season for the 46th edition of the great race. The previous August, Rea suffered serious head injuries in a crash during practice of the 43rd Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, making his comeback all the more remarkable. The fact he’ll now be racing again is testament to the British rider’s refusal to give up during an arduous recovery.

“I’m extremely excited to be back under the wings of Wójcik Racing Team,” said the 34-year-old FIM Endurance World Cup contender. “It was in the colours of this team that I started my career in EWC. I’m excited to be racing together again while the team witches to Honda bikes. It’s been a crazy year of intense rehab, but I will do my best to help the team develop the bike using my experience.”

EWC RIDERS SAID WHAT?

Florian Alt (Germany), Honda Viltaïs Racing: “The clear target from the team is to achieve in every race a podium because we want to be in the top three at the end of the season. At Le Mans we have been really unlucky with some technical issues, which made us fall out of the podium. Now we really, really want to fight hard for the podium in Le Mans. Of course, at Bol d’Or we had the hat-trick, three years in a row, the third position, the victory and the second position last year so now we really want to be competitive at Le Mans.”

Marvin Fritz (Germany), Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team: “Le Mans is one of the hardest tracks physically for the body because you have not so much rest, you have the main straight and the back straight, but all the other parts are really physical. Then of course it’s always the question about the weather. We can have nice weather but it can rain and it can be cold, especially in the night. Then there’s the traffic because you have so many riders in the race and it’s so important to get through the traffic as fast as possible at any time of the race, it’s where you can win or lose the most time. Our goal is to win Le Mans. It’s still on my list to achieve but we have the potential to win, the team, the bike and the Bridgestone tyres are always doing an amazing job for us.”

Sylvain Guintoli (France), BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “It’s difficult, there’s a lot going on with the power management as well and the engine brake because it’s very much a stop and go track. The BMW is very fast, the engine is super-quick so we’re trying to make it as rider-friendly as possible for 24 hours. The Pre-Test was a great opportunity for us to dial everything in. The [changing] weather meant it was tough because you’ve got to adapt and you’ve got to try the different tyres, the different configurations with a fully wet track, drying track and the slicks as well with different temperatures because the temperature affects a lot the tyre grip and the longevity. So far over the history of the race no European manufacturer has ever won so it would be great to be the first one with BMW.”

Josh Hook (Australia), F.C.C. TSR Honda France: “There’s a lot of hard braking. What works for us is to set up a bike which is good in the braking areas so you have to use less effort in those areas. It can help you with the energy levels throughout the race and not pop you too quick. Our bike tends to work better in the night and obviously the body does too because you sweat a lot less and it’s a little bit easier physically. You’ve just got the problem of trying to stop your fingers from getting numb because you get halfway through a stint and you can’t feel your fingers! Generally the engine works better in the colder conditions, the lap times tend to come a little easier and it’s less physical. As long as we stay upright if there are tricky conditions, make the right calls in the pits when to use wets and when to use slicks, we can do very well in this race.”

Grégory Leblanc (France), Kawasaki Webike Trickstar: “The target is to fight for the victory because when you ride for a factory team honestly you fight for the victory. I won Le Mans five times with Kawasaki and I would like to win another time for the record. In the Pre-Test the track conditions were not perfect but I am confident because this track is not bad for the Pirelli tyres and the Kawasaki bike. However, in a 24-hour race we need to be lucky, we need no crash, no technical problems and if we have nothing we can finish on the podium. Le Mans is always special with the weather because in April we can have 30 degrees or the full race in rain but I prefer for the show and the fans that all is dry.”

Dan Linfoot (Great Britain), Yoshimura SERT Motul: “The conditions obviously play a part as it can get really cold and it’s the first race after not having ridden so much for five or six months. Our team brings a wealth of experience on the technical side to this race and also on the organisational side with the planning. All riders are in a great place, the team has made some steps with the bike and as long as we tick all the boxes and are prepared we should be in a great position for Le Mans.”

Alessandro Delbianco (Italy), Pit-Lane Endurance: “The EWC is my big dream because I’m very passionate about endurance racing. The track is amazing but maybe the weather is not our friend in these days. But it’s okay, maybe it’s a very difficult for a 24-hour race but we try. The Bol d’Or in the night [for my EWC debut] was amazing and this place [Le Mans] with all the people will be another amazing experience. For sure we ride for making a podium because we are a good team with very good riders. We are all fast riders so why not?”

Michael Dunlop (Northern Ireland), TRT27 AZ Moto: “I don’t see a reason why I can’t be fast here. If we get the base good, I should be fast as well. I came here with the Honda 11 years ago and I was fast then, I was the fastest of the group. It’s a different ball game [to the Isle of Man TT] and that’s just the way it is. People think you’re racing at night [at Le Mans] but when you’re here it’s all lit up. When the place is full of people and the lights are on it’s not really night. But it’s not the night that’s the problem but the freezing cold. The last time I was here it was minus three and we had to stop it for an hour or so before we got going again because of the cold.”

Théo Vigneron (France), Uniserv Moto82 Team: “The new rule means we will have four riders in Superstock and maybe it will be easier for us because, financially, we all pay and also on the track. For 24 hours it’s quite hard. With three riders it’s a real race but with the new rules we are trying four riders. I ride once at Le Mans but as a fourth rider, so not running in 2022. It was a great experience but after competing in the French Endurance Championship last year, this year I wanted to go back again in the EWC. It’s a new team for me but it’s a pleasure to be with them and the goal is to finish the race.”

PROVISIONAL KEY EWC TIMINGS

Wednesday 17 April
15h00: Parade from Circuit Bugatti to Place des Jacobins, Le Mans
16h00 (approx.): Official team and rider presentation (Place des Jacobins, Le Mans)

Thursday 18 April:
10h00-12h00: Free Practice
16h00-16h20: First Qualifying (Blue Riders)
16h30-16h50: First Qualifying (Yellow Riders)
17h00-17h20: First Qualifying (Red Riders)
17h30-17h50: First Qualifying (Green Riders)
20h30-22h00: Night Practice

Friday 19 April:
10h20-10h40: Second Qualifying (Blue Riders)
10h50-11h10: Second Qualifying (Yellow Riders)
11h20-11h40: Second Qualifying (Red Riders)
11h50-12h10: Second Qualifying (Green Riders)
12h15-12h25: Pole position photo sessions
12h45: Post-qualifying press conference (Briefing Room 305)

Saturday 20 April:
10h30-11h15: Warm-up
15h00: Start of 47th 24 Heures Motos

Sunday 21 April:
15h00: Finish of 47th 24 Heures Motos
15h10: Podium ceremony
15h30: Post-race press conference (Briefing Room 305)

24 HEURES MOTOS ESSENTIALS
Where: Bugatti Circuit
Location: Automobile Club de l’Ouest – Circuit des 24 Heures, 72000 Le Mans, France
When: 18-21 April 2024
Track length: 4.185 kilometres
Race distance: 24 hours

BEST LAPS:
Qualifying: Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official Team (Karel Hanika, 1m34.878s, 2022)
Race: BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team (Illya Mykhalchyk, 1m36.751s, 2023)

IN 100 WORDS:
Rather than the 13.626-kilometre Circuit de La Sarthe, the traditional EWC curtain-raiser takes place on the 4.185-kilometre Bugatti Circuit. The demanding layout comes complete with the famous Le Mans start/finish straight, Dunlop Esses and Ford Chicane, while a twisty infield ensures there’s little respite. Riders also face the prospect of shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures during the night and early morning. Although the inaugural 24 Heures Motos took place in 1978, when Jean-Claude Chemarin and Christian Léon rode a Honda to victory, the ACO staged its first motorbike race in 1912, long before the Bugatti Circuit’s September 1966 inauguration.

For more info check out our dedicated Endurance World Championship News page Endurance World Championship

or visit the official Endurance World Championship website fimewc.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of Endurance World Championship/a>

Just Dropped Issue 18 – Modern Classic Motorcycle News

Frank Duggan

April 12, 2024

Just dropped today issue 18 dated 8th April 2024.

Welcome to the latest of Modern Classic Motorcycle News latest news, lifestyle and reviews from the world of Modern Classic, Roadster and Naked motorcycles.

Available through our dedicated iOS and Android apps or via web reader if you don’t have a tablet.

You can buy individual editions at £2.99 per issue (twice a month) or subscribe (its cheaper)

Our dedicated app is available through iSO App Store, Google Play and Read it via Web app

You can read via Zinio Unlimited via their tablet app and you can also download to you mac or pc and read it through their desktop reader

Pay £8.99 per month for unlimited magazine downloads from a choice of up 5000+

You can also subscribe via Discountmags.com outside UK 24 Issues $63.65 ~~$76.32~~

Alpinestars Launches Tech-Air 7X Airbag System

Frank Duggan

April 12, 2024

Alpinestars launches Tech-Air® 7X Airbag System, Generation Next, engineered for road racing and sport riding protection

TECH-AIR® 7X AIRBAG SYSTEM COVERAGE AND RIDER PROTECTION
Specifically developed for road racing, track day use, and performance road riding, the FIM-homologated, Tech-Air® 7x is derived from Alpinestars’ proven MotoGP Airbag technology, where over 50% of MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 riders are protected by Tech-Air® Airbag Systems. The fully autonomous, self-contained Tech-Air® 7x features a streamlined, low profile, and highly ventilated Airbag System. Tech-Air® 7x provides comprehensive upper body protection by covering riders’ shoulders, chest, and full back. The integrated back protector is extended in length for additional protection of the coccyx.

The Tech-Air® 7x can be used as a Standalone System to be worn under a leather suit or jacket that has sufficient space to accommodate the inflation of the airbag, or it can be worn as an Integrated System within a Tech-Air® compatible suit or jacket. In addition, the Tech-Air® 7x features extensive perforations and has a ventilation system constructed with a ribbed treatment and interior air channels that ensure enhanced breathability and airflow.

Activating the Tech-Air® 7x is easy; simply close the Front Flap, and an internal magnetic switch will detect the Front Flap is closed and automatically turn on and activate the Airbag System. Opening the Front Flap will automatically deactivate and turn off the System.

AI TECHNOLOGY AND CRASH MONITORING PERFORMANCE
The state-of-the-art, wearable Tech-Air® 7x Airbag System comes with an active electronic system that features twelve integrated sensors: 3 triaxial accelerometers and 1 triaxial gyroscope. These sensors monitor the rider’s body for shocks or unexpected movements and communicate with the System’s computer, sending data inputs every millisecond, or a thousand times per second. Developed through years of research in collaboration with the world’s leading professional racers and Alpinestars’ customers riding with Tech-Air® Systems, our team has analyzed riding data from millions of kilometers and thousands of crashes to continuously enhance the System’s intelligent crash detection algorithms.

Upon the identification of a crash situation, the algorithm will trigger the deployment of the protective Airbag, providing unrivaled protection to the rider or the passenger wearing the System (with a maximum inflation time of 44ms, depending on the volume of the airbag size). The impact absorption while wearing the Airbag when inflated, results in a decrease of the impact force by up to 90% compared to a passive CE Level 1 protector (EN 1621-2:2014).

TECH-AIR® 7X RIDING MODES: RACE AND STREET
The Tech-Air® 7x System comes pre-loaded with two different Riding Modes: RACE Mode for riding on racetracks and STREET Mode for street and light off-road riding. Each Riding Mode offers an optimized riding algorithm, allowing the System to detect an imminent impact and deploy the protective airbag in crash situations. Users can easily switch between Race and Street Riding Modes by simply using the Tech-Air® App.

DUAL DEPLOYMENT AND EASY GAS INFLATOR REPLACEMENT
The Tech-Air® 7x features dual charge capability, which means that the System provides two separate Airbag deployments. A quick-release cover opening allows for rapid gas inflator replacement by users (where local regulations allow). In addition, the bladder is certified for up to four individual deployments before requiring service.

TECH-AIR® 7X OFFERS VERSATILITY
The System can be worn as a Standalone System under a protective suit or jacket, or as an Integrated System within a leather racing suit or jacket. When worn as an Integrated System with a Tech-Air® Compatible Alpinestars leather suit or jacket, riders can easily check the System’s operational status, the battery status, and the number of available inflators remaining by looking at the LED located on the left sleeve of the garment.

TECH-AIR® APP AND SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATES
When it comes to other features, the Tech-Air® 7x is Bluetooth enabled, allowing riders to easily update their System via the free Tech-Air® App when new releases of the System’s software with new crash-detection algorithms become available. Offering a wide variety of functionalities, the App provides riders with the ability to check the System’s operational status, and battery life, consult the User Manual, and record their rides on an enhanced Google map with MyRide, subject to network coverage.

Regarding battery life, a fully charged battery will provide the System with approximately 20 hours of active ride time. The Front Flap features an integrated charging port for convenient and easy charging of the System. Additionally, an integrated LED display is positioned on the Front Flap and indicates the System’s operational status, battery status, and the number of available inflators remaining.

PROTECTION
The Tech-Air® 7x is compatible with all FIM Grand Prix Requirements for Airbag Systems, making it suitable for road racing competitions.

This Airbag System is certified as a Category || PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) under European Regulation (EU) 2016/425.

Certifications of the Airbag System that are covered by Dolomiticert’s guidelines for inflatable protectors with electronic activation:

Airbag System Central Back inflatable protector, Level 2, EN 1621-4:2018
STREET and RACE Algorithms performance

Additional Tech-Air® 7x Certifications:

Protective garment, Class C, EN 17092-6:2020
Integrated Passive Central Back, Level 1, EN 1621-2:2014
Tech-Air® 7x is certified as an undergarment, to be used in combination with and under a protective garment.

Tech-Air® 7x is launching in North America on April 11th and will be available in the European and international markets starting on April 22nd.

For more Alpinestars news check out our dedicated page Alpinestars News

You find out where to buy in the UK via Oxford Products website

or head to the official Alpinestars website alpinestars.com/

“It’s too easy to talk”: the Thursday dispatch from Texas

Frank Duggan

April 12, 2024

Portugal had it all, and the stage is set for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas to deliver even more. First, the podcast welcomed Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder to the show, before a special press conference with Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, Chief Commercial Officer Dan Rossomondo and Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta – for more on that, see below.

The first press conference for the riders then got in gear, with Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) joined by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), aka the current top three in the Championship.

Then, after news earlier this week that Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) had signed a new contract with Yamaha, he joined Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) and rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) for press conference two.

Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day at COTA!

JORGE MARTIN
How confident are you heading into this weekend?
“I am very happy with the start of the season so far, and I think our target is to be better than the years before because I struggled quite a lot last season at COTA, and my target is to be better than last year. It will be a big challenge as there will be many strong rivals this weekend, but I feel confident that we will do a good job and I feel in good physical condition, which is important here as last season I struggled a lot as I had a fever and was taking antibiotics, so I am hoping I can be one of the best.”

BRAD BINDER
How much are you looking forward to this weekend?
“For sure, it is exciting to get going again, this track is very special and has a little bit of everything, so it is important to find a rhythm and have a good pace as it is a long lap, and that is my goal going into the weekend. In Portimao, unfortunately, I struggled from the first session; I couldn’t find my feet, and then I, unfortunately, crashed in the Sprint and fourth in the main race with a lot of help in front of me, but I am really keen to have another go here as the step between 2022 and 2023 was huge, and I expect a step like that this weekend.”

ENEA BASTIANINI
What is it about COTA that you like so much?
“I have great memories from 2022 here at COTA and it was fantastic to have a great victory here. I come from a great podium in Portimao, and I am also confident at the moment and let’s see if we can continue in this direction. I think we have a good set-up at the moment at every track, and this is important. Let’s see if I can be fast at COTA as physically, it is one of the most difficult races.”

PECCO BAGNAIA
Is this year at COTA about redemption from last year?
“Let’s see, it is a track that I like, and last year, I was very competitive and feeling great but I crashed and made a mistake in the race. I think we can be competitive again, it is a different track compared to Portimao so let’s see what we can do and improve the feeling from Portimao which caused me some trouble in the race.”

PEDRO ACOSTA
It seems expectations around you are changing already… are they for you too? And how much are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP™ bike around COTA?
“We don’t have expectations anymore; it is too easy to talk, and we are not in the moment to think about this. We need to be realistic and not aim for results after two races. As you said, it would be super nice, as last season, I enjoyed riding a Moto2™ bike around COTA, so let’s try and enjoy!”

MARC MARQUEZ
What are your chances of winning here on the Ducati?
“Obviously, we now arrive at a good race track for my style, and in the past, we have achieved a lot of good results. But at Portimao, there are three or four riders faster than me, so let’s see if we are closer here. If today (Thursday) you said you would achieve a first podium, I would sigh as a podium must arrive before a victory, so let’s see step by step.”

FABIO QUARTARARO
Did you discuss signing with other manufacturers before signing with Yamaha?
“Of course, we spoke to different manufacturers, and the decision was not easy, but in Portugal, we had a meeting with top management from Yamaha to discuss the project from now to the end of the year and 2025/2026. There are some really interesting things which are still confidential in Yamaha, like new people. The project is going to be huge so the decision was made in Portugal.”

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

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

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2024

Frank Duggan

April 12, 2024

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2024

If you cant make it this year please consider sponsoring us. We will be taking part again this year on the West Sussex Ride. Last year we raised £447 in our first year with your help we would like to beat that. Click the banner at top of the page or head to https://gfolk.me/MCMNews

How to take part in DGR

Register
Register your profile and check out your updated dashboard and profile page. There are quite a few new features that will put the fun back into fundraising!

Fundraise
Make a donation or share your profile to raise funds and receive some unique rewards. It all starts with raising funds for the cause. Find out more here!

Ride
Get on your motorcycle and ride through the heart of your city for men’s health. Don’t forget to dapper up and take a photo or two!

About
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa. It was inspired by a photo of TV Show Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic motorcycle and wearing his finest suit. Mark decided a themed ride would be a great way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities while raising funds to support the men in our lives.

Information and images below provided to us by The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.

DGR Achievements Since

2012

USD $45 Million – Raised for Men’s Health
500,000 – Classic and Vintage Riders
121 – Countries Around the World

DGR Story from 2012

2012

3,000 Riders

64 Cities

Our inaugural event started in Sydney and quickly made its way around the world with thousands of dapper folks riding in solidarity to positively represent the global motorcycling community.