Ace Cafe London’s annual “Yamaha Day” from 9am to 5pm on Sunday 28th April celebrates all that “Revs Your Heart”.
From classic lightweight 2-stroke screamers, to the big-bang 4-stroke motors of today, this year includes on the spot prizes courtesy of the cafes guests “WH05 DAT”!
Listen, revel and be immersed in a mix of the best rock and roll and rockabilly, blended with the London sub-culture sounds, broadcasting 24/7 on online radio and social media.
1938 Vincent-HRD 998cc Rapide Series-A, estimated at £240,000 – 280,000.
An Ultra-Rare 1938 Vincent-HRD Series-A Rapide To Be Sold At The 2024 Spring Stafford Sale.
Two day sale with more than 350 lots where over half will be sold Without Reserve.
Bonhams will be returning to the Staffordshire County Showground to offer 365 lots of motorcycles and memorabilia, including five major single-owner collections, with nearly 60% of lots offered Without Reserve.
1972 Kawasaki 750cc H2-R Formula 750 Racing Motorcycle, estimate: £120,000 – £160,000. 1974 Suzuki TR750 Formula 750 Racing Motorcycle, estimate: £120,000 – £140,000.
Headlining the sale is one of the rarest and most highly prized motorcycles in existence, a 1938 Vincent-HRD 998cc Rapide Series-A, estimate £240,000 – £280,000. One of the most exciting motorcycles to be offered on the open market in recent years, this stunning Vincent-HRD Series-A twin represents a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for discerning collectors.
Additional highlights include:
The ex-Team Hansen, Gary Nixon, Hurley Wilvert, Greg Hansford, 1972 Kawasaki 750cc H2-R Formula 750 Racing Motorcycle, estimated at £120,000 – £160,000. An important piece of Kawasaki history, this ex-Team Hansen Formula 750 racer is rare in having fully traceable ownership and exceptionally comprehensive documentation regarding its provenance.
The ex-works, Barry Sheene, 1974 Suzuki TR750 Formula 750 Racing Motorcycle, estimate £120,000 – £140,000. This historic machine was ridden by Barry Sheene in 1975 and 1976 and is offered with a substantial history file of race results, press cuttings, photographs, and correspondence, presenting a unique opportunity to own a factory race bike ridden by one of motorcycle racing’s greatest World Champions.
First owned by Brough Superior ‘early adopter’ Sam Ratcliffe, this 1924 Brough Superior 980cc SS80, estimate £80,000 – £120,000, is offered for sale by the Ratcliffe family. It is accompanied by an extensive history file with photographs and documentation that bring to life the chronicles of this 100-year-old bike.
First owned by Brough Superior’s General Manager, Ike Webb, c.1922 Brough Superior 996cc MkI/SS80 ‘Special’, estimate £70,000 – £100,000, is known as ‘Ike’s Bike’ due to its unique specification. There is no doubt Ike’s Bike is one of the most important Brough’s ever which makes this a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of Haydn Road history.
1924 Brough Superior 980cc SS80, estimate £80,000 – £120,000. c.1922 Brough Superior 996cc MkI/SS80 ‘Special’, estimate £70,000 – £100,000.
Featured in this year’s sale are five major collections from various independent vendors including The Ron Pladdys Collection, The Clive Wood MBE Collection, The John and Annette Marchant Collection, and two further private collections.
The sale has a plethora of amazing motorcycles from every era, from Pioneer to Vintage, post-war to post-classic. The full catalogue can be downloaded for free HERE.
MotoAmerica’s Mission King Of The Baggers Is Set To Strut Its Stuff In Front Of The World With Texas Invasion At Circuit Of The Americas, April 12-13.
Harley-Davidson’s Kyle Wyman won the most important two Mission King Of The Baggers races of the 2024 season when he doubled up at Daytona International Speedway the second weekend in March.
Or did he?
Following his perfect weekend at Daytona, Kyle Wyman leads the Mission King Of The Baggers Championship as the series heads to Circuit of The Americas for round two, April 12-13. Photo by Brian J. Nelson
The fact that he won both races at the “World Center Of Racing” isn’t up for debate. What is up for debate, however, is whether the Daytona round or this week’s round at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, which will take place in front of a worldwide audience with MotoGP, is the bigger event. Either way, they are both big.
Kyle Wyman arrives at COTA armed with his factory Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s Road Glide and fresh off his two wins at Daytona. As the all-time wins leader in the class with 14 victories, Kyle Wyman has become the benchmark of the series and his two Daytona victories have him atop the 2024 standings with a perfect 50 points. Wyman also won the first of two races at COTA during the debut of the class in Texas this past September.
Defending MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Champion Hayden Gillim didn’t have the best Daytona as he opened his title defense on the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson, but his fourth and fifth-place finishes put him fourth in the championship heading to COTA. He trails Kyle Wyman by 26 points but, with the uncertainty of Baggers racing, that number isn’t as bad as it seems.
Gillim emerged from last year’s dramatic season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park with a win and a second place, and that earned him the title by 18 points over James Rispoli after a consistent season that saw him win three races and finish on the podium in eight others. Gillim can also take solace in the fact that he was fourth and fifth on one occasion last year at Road America, which mimics his Daytona results from a month ago.
Gillim also has the confidence that comes with two second-place finishes in the two Bagger races at COTA this past September.
Kyle Wyman’s new teammate for 2024 is Gillim’s old teammate from 2023 – Rispoli. He joins the factory Harley team after his runner-up finish in last year’s title chase, a season that had him atop the podium on two occasions with 10 total podiums. One of his victories came in race two at COTA after the Floridian was third in race one. Rispoli started his 2024 with two thirds at Daytona.
With Rispoli now on the factory team, 19-year-old Rocco Landers took his spot on the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson in what is his debut season in the class. Landers, a former MotoAmerica Twins Cup and Junior Cup Champion, knows his way around a podium as he’s tasted success in every class he’s attempted. Landers’ Baggers debut at Daytona resulted in fifth- and 10th-place finishes.
The racer who currently sits just 10 points behind Kyle Wyman in the 2024 title chase after Daytona is newcomer Troy Herfoss, the three-time Australian Superbike Champion who made not only his Mission King Of The Baggers debut at Daytona but also his MotoAmerica debut. Herfoss opened eyes when he finished second in both Daytona races in March. The Aussie will be making his COTA debut this coming weekend.
If Herfoss needs any help in learning COTA, he can get it from the other side of the canopy where the S&S/Indian Motorcycle’s Indian Challenger of Tyler O’Hara is parked. O’Hara, the 2022 Mission King Of The Baggers Champion, had an off-year (by his standards) in 2023 and finished fifth in the championship with five podiums (three of which were runner-up finishes) and no victories. O’Hara will also be trying to make amends for failing to score a point in the two races at COTA last year.
Fifth place in the championship after Daytona is held by RydFast Racing’s Kyle Ohnsorg and his Indian Challenger. Ohnsorg was sixth in both races at the Speedway. The Minnesotan likely has a fondness for Circuit of The Americas as he scored his first-career podium there last year.
The Saddlemen/Harley-Davidson team arrives in Texas with Cory West, Travis Wyman and Jake Lewis riding the team’s three Road Glides. The trio are eighth (Travis Wyman), 11th (Lewis) and 12th (West) after an issue-filled Daytona and are looking to rebound.
SDI/Roland Sands Racing/Indian Motorcycle’s Bobby Fong won twice and had six total podiums last year, but he also had a difficult Daytona with a non-finish and a seventh on his scorecard.
Mad Monkey Motorsports’ Max Flinders sits in the top 10 following Daytona after his ninth- and 11th-place finishes in the two races. Flinders earned his first MotoAmerica podium last year in the Baggers season finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park.
Spaniard Ruben Xaus had a dismal beginning to his MotoAmerica debut season with just one point coming his way at Daytona. The Feuling Parts Harley racer comes to MotoAmerica with an impressive resume that includes race wins in the World Superbike Championship. Xaus, who lives in Andorra, will be looking to find his feet at COTA.
The Baggers hit the COTA road course for the first time at 8:20 a.m. on Friday, April 12 for Practice 1 and then again at 4:15 p.m. for a 15-minute qualifying session.
At 4:45 p.m., the Baggers will race for the first time in the three-lap Mission King Of The Baggers Challenge.
On Saturday, the first of two six-lap Mission King Of The Baggers races will start at 12:15 p.m. with race two slated for 4 p.m., following the MotoGP Sprint race that starts at 3 p.m.
Pre-Race Notes…
Kyle Wyman is the Mission King Of The Baggers lap record holder at Circuit Of The Americas with his 2:15.461 lap record set in Sunday morning warm up this past September. The fastest lap from the two races last year also goes to Wyman with his 2:16.429 set en route to him winning race one.
Thirteen riders have entered the Mission King Of The Baggers Presented By Drag Specialties. Eight of those are Harley-Davidson Road Glides with five Indian Challengers on the entry list.
Kyle Wyman is far and away the winningest rider in the short history of Mission King Of The Baggers with his 14 victories. Three riders are tied for second with three wins – Tyler O’Hara, Hayden Gillim and Bobby Fong. The other two riders to win King Of The Baggers races are Jeremy McWiliams and Travis Wyman, with those two having one win apiece.
For more news check out our dedicated MotoAmerica News page MotoAmerica News
With the countdown clock ticking down to under 50 days; the seeded riders for the Supertwin Races at TT 2024 have been announced. The Metzeler Race 1 and Entire Cover Insurance Race 2 promise to give some close racing as the rising starts tackle the established elite.
Paul Jordan will be the first to face the plunge down Bray Hill. This yeas he will be Yamaha R7 mounted for the Stop & Seal / Rev2Race team. Paul has achieved a podium finish in this class and has a best lap of 121.248mph; he will be looking for top 6 finish at least. Jamie Coward is the second fastest man ever in the class at 122.52mph. He missed out on a victory by just 1.6s to Michael Dunlop in the 2019 race; having led for part of it. This year he stays with the KTS / Steadplan team on the Kawasaki and seems sure to be a challenger for a victory.
Pierre-Yves Bian has had a meteoric rise. After 1 year at the MGP; he took 4th in the Supertwins on his TT debut in 2022 and last year took 6th in Race 1; then a maiden podium with 2nd in Race 2. He is faster with each race; his best lap at 119.99mph was achieved on the final lap last year. He will be on the trusted VAS Paton. Another podium finish could well be on the cards for the first French rider to secure a TT podium finish. The vastly experienced Michael Rutter will have the number 4 plate. The winner of the race in 2017; he will be campaigning one of the exciting Yamaha R7 machines, in the Batham’s Ales colours. With a best lap of 120.974mph; he seems certain to add to his tally of top 6 finishes. Rob Hodson will be chasing Michael off the line and for this year his SMT Racing bike will be a Paton; rather than the Kawasaki campaigned last year. A former MGP winner, Rob should be a top 6 challenger in all of his races.
Michael Dunlop is the class lap record holder (from2018) at 122.75mph; he has his favoured number 6. In recent years has either won the class races or retired from them. He stays faithful to the Paton and will start as marginal favourite; however, it seems certain that to win; he will have to break his lap record. Josh Brookes has the 7 plate; he took his first TT podium with 3rd in last year’s Race 2; setting a best lap at 120.939mph in the process. He has the second Stop & Seal / Rev2Race Yamaha R7. His performances last year; in the first attempt at this class and on his TT return after a sabbatical; show that if the Yamahas have improved from last year; he will be a real threat to Dunlop, Coward and Hickman.
Davey Todd has interesting array of machinery this year. For this class he has the Dafabet Racing Kawasaki at this disposal. The team has prepared 3 race winning bikes; whilst Davey has completed only 1 racing lap in the class; that being in 2019 on the Norton. If he gels with the Kawasaki, he has the talent to be in the mix at the sharp end. The ever jovial Dominic Herbertson is next away. He will be aboard the Burrows Engineering by RK Racing Paton. These boys know how to prepare a machine and Dominic is a class rider; a top six may be within their compass.
Number 10 is now synonymous with Peter Hickman. Against his own expectations, he won Race 2 last year on what very much an experimental Yamaha R7. He set a personal best lap at 121.293mph. With more development behind them the team should have eked more power out of the engine, to reduce or eliminate the top end gap to the Kawasakis and Patons. Do not be surprised to see his name at the top of board in one of these races.
11th man away will be two times Supersport winner Gary Johnson on the second Dafabet Kawasaki; hopefully Gary will avoid the ill luck that has hampered him in recent years and have a couple of strong finishes. Stefano Bonetti is a past podium finisher in the class; he has a best lap of 120.607mph so could be in the top 10 at the end of the races. Lee Johnston has his usual number 13 plate. Lee was critically injured in the last year’s NW200 and has rebroken a leg in testing this year. This should be a year for putting in steady laps; gradually upping his pace and setting himself up for a full paced attempt next year.
Another of those whose rise has been rapid is Mike Browne. A machine blow up; whilst leading; ended his hope of winning his Newcomers’ Race in the 2018 MGP. However, he did record a 119mph in the Senior Race on a borrowed; unfamiliar bike; after very limited practice time. He has since won 2 Lightweight MGPs and become the fastest Irish rider around the Mountain Course. Last year he took his first TT podium with 2nd in the first Supertwin Race and led the second race before retiring. Another podium is certainly a possibility; if he can secure a competitive machine.
Victor Lopez Santos won last year’s Junior MGP (for Supertwins); the fist Spanish rider to win an MGP. His machine has yet to be announced for his TT debut. Joe Yeardsley’s rise has been phenomenal. Two years into his road racing career he has won at the Pre-TT Classic races; after a superb due with Jamie Coward. He led the Junior MGP until the machine cried enough. He then won the Senior MGP (his father won it 1985) setting a new outright lap record for the event. He will have the Team ILR / Frog Developments Paton at his disposal for these races. He has many wise old heads to guide him. He is a supremely talented young man and I expect that he will break the 120mph barrier in this class and secure a finish within the top 10.
Joey Thompson made a steady return to the TT last year. He has ample talent and if he can secure a competitive machine could achieve the results that his early races suggested that he could produce; he is a dark horse. Barry Furber is another of the rising stars of the event; with the Yamaha R7 having had a year’s development he could easily run in the top 10; as last year. James Hind is another who burst onto the scene. He won an MGP double that could have been four timer but for machine failure. He is very rapid; especially in the smaller classes. His machine for this class has not been announced as yet; if it is a top machine, he could be on the fringes of the top 6. Local double MGP winner Mikey Evans completes the seeds. 11th and 7th in the class last year; he has switched from Aprilia to tried and tested Kawasaki power for this year. A top 10 finish is very much within reach for this talented rider.
Other to look out for include Marcus Simpson, Paul Cassidy, Indy Dokoupil, Franceso Curinga and Gareth Arnold.
Jamie Coward at Ballaugh Bridge
Lap record holder Michael Dunlop at Ballaugh Bridge
In its latest update since the completely revamped 2023 KTM SX range, the 2025 KTM SX and 2025 KTM SX-F range have upped the ante when it comes to rider connection, composure and control – along with the return of a fan favourite.
Engineered to provide riders with more control than ever before, the 2025 KTM SX and SX-F range brings a series of updates adopted directly from KTM’s Factory Racing efforts, making this the most READY TO RACE line-up yet.
The frame has received the most significant update share, with visible cutouts and tube-wall thickness changes around the front, engine mounts and rear shock mounting areas. These changes have been specifically engineered to improve chassis flex characteristics and reduce weight by around 300 g while maintaining overall stability and improving cornering behaviour. An updated swingarm with a machined chain glider and an updated rear brake pedal for improved durability round off updates to the frame.
New Dunlop GEOMAX MX34 Motocross tyres are standard on the 2025 KTM SX and SX-F models, providing stability and control at the highest level to perform at their best. These feature a new carcass compound that improves damping and absorption, adding up to 30% longer performance. New Progressive Cornering Block Technology improves traction, grip and mud dissipation.
At the rear, the WP XACT rear shock benefits from an updated linkage with renewed seals and smaller diameter linkage bolts. The setup is taken directly from the KTM Factory Racing Team and is optimised to benefit weight savings and stiffness parameters. To complement the updates at the rear, the WP XACT AER fork features reworked settings to account for more flex and less weight.
Ergonomically, the 2025 KTM SX and SX-F range features new tank shrouds with bi-composite plastics on the upper and lower flanks, providing a fresh, sharp and distinctive new look and improved cooling. This is supported by an updated fuel tank roll that protects the frame against wear from scrubbing and improves tank fitment. Lastly, an updated air inlet sleeve and snorkel design features on the 2025 models. This is now a one-piece part, preventing deformation through a more robust and stiffer material design.
Above the surface, all-new graphics mirror the new design language of the tank shrouds and hint at the many small technical changes on the 2025 line-up. Full-orange bodywork, red and black in-mould graphics, and a more durable black seat bring a clean look while communicating pure, READY TO RACE intention.
Model year 2025 also sees the introduction of the Connectivity Unit Offroad (CUO), which is available as a KTM PowerPart for the 2025 KTM SX-F line-up. The CUO offers various functionalities and adjustability options via the KTMconnect app. This exists as two parts: the CUO – mounted on the right upper fork between the lower and upper triple clamp – and the GPS sensor on the front fender. A CUO-compatible front fender is available as a KTM PowerParts option.
At long last, the cherished KTM 150 SX rejoins the 2-stroke stable with much anticipation. The 2025 KTM 150 SX builds upon the foundation of the KTM 125 SX but with a significant overhaul of components. Specifically designed, modified and rearranged for racers in pursuit of elevated performance, it offers enhanced torque and an enriched riding experience.
The 2025 KTM SX and SX-F models introduce subtle yet significant enhancements to the race paddock, offering the broadest selection of machines designed to meet the needs of every rider and racer.
UK price and availability to be confirmed.
Discover more about the 2025 KTM Motocross range at KTM.com.
“5 Minutes with….” produced by First Turn Media and photos supplied by Dao Media Team
No stranger to a challenge, gritting your teeth and getting on with the job at hand, Brayden Elliott has proved that he could make his mark on the British Superbike Championship as he starts the 2024 season on a Superbike for Dao Racing. I chatted with Brayden a few weeks ago, we discussed the plan for 2024 and everything leading to the Donington Test weekend.
SBN: Australia, Bikes… tell us how you got started.
Brayden: I grew up in a small country town, very different from the UK. My family had a few farms, lots of space and my dad always had bikes, not into racing or anything though. My dad had me on a bike pretty much as soon as I could walk and riding a bike around with training wheels. I did my first race at the age of 4 on a dirt track. It started off as a bit of fun, something for the family to do at a weekend traveling around to dirt tracks. As it inevitably does it progressed to something a little more serious as we started to chase things like state and national championships. I then progressed into speedway as well at the age of 9, which I did until I was about 17. That actually was my original plan, to come to England and race speedway. I had always wanted to try road racing, but living fairly remote in Australia it wasn’t something we really had access to and not many people were doing it. Casey Stoner was obviously a bit before my time but he had made the move to the UK but at the time for me there wasn’t much for Juniors where we lived and speedway was the more natural progression. I spent most of my younger years preparing for that. My parents were really keen on me having a trade, so I completed my apprenticeship as a motorcycle mechanic. I got my learners permit and a street bike to be able to ride to work and back, but to be honest it just wasn’t for me. I didn’t like the other vehicles and trucks on the road at all. A friend of mine had a CB600 track bike and he offered me the chance to take it for a ride on the track, I borrowed all the gear I needed for the day, turned up and rode the bike around the track. I knew straight away I preferred it to riding on the road. On the way home from the track that same day I listed my little street bike for sale and used the money to get myself a track bike. Within a few months me and dad were doing track days and having fun and soon realised that this was for me. I sold all the speedway bikes, dirt bikes and completely flipped my plan around. At the start of 2014 I lined up for my first ever club race and things really progressed quickly from there and I won the Australian Supersport championship in 2015 . I went into Australian Superbike in 2016, where I got a couple of podiums and finished top privateer and 5th overall in the championship. I also had my first taste at riding overseas too, I went over to Malysia to try out for the Malaysian Talent cup and as I was getting quite good results on my Suzuki, a team from Moto America reached out as they has an injured rider and asked if I would fill in for him, so I went over there and did three rounds for them in that championship, which was my first taste of racing away from home and getting a feel of what it would be like.
SBN: Wow, that’s a lot in short space of time. So now, you decide to make the move to England.
Brayden: Yes! I made the move to the UK in 2017 with my partner, we were both 21 at the time after setting up a ride with Craig Fitzpatrick, it seems like such a big thing to do but at the time it didn’t feel as crazy as it sounds. I had never lived out of home, didn’t even know how to turn on a washing machine, me and my partner had a long distance relationship and we had never spent more than a few days together. We had never been to England so didn’t know what to expect or where to stay so we googled the map, looked at Derby and thought , yeah that seems pretty central for the tracks, so we booked into a shared house for 6 months there and arrived at Heathrow airport with 2 30KG suitcases and got a rental car from the airport for a week. The plan was arrive at Derby and try to get our lives together in a week before we had to give the car back – and I have been here ever since! It really went from nothing to something really quickly.
SBN: So you appear to have a determined attitude to make this work.
Brayden: Yeah, I wouldn’t class myself as a really naturally talented rider. When I first started riding bikes I was pretty horrendous , but I always put in 100% effort and so did my parents. They got me the best bikes and coaches we could get and I trained and progressed and went from not making the top 24 to winning the championship. The guy who first let me out on his CBR600 on the track wouldn’t let me do it at first, as I was always a pretty chubby kid. He said if I lost 20KG he would let me go out on it, which took me best part of a year to do… so whenever I have got something in my head that I want to do something I really don’t like quitting until I have.
When I was younger I had a very big accident which involved some brain injury and had to take a lot of time to recover, and when I did start to ride again it was like the first time I had ever ridden a bike, I had to start pretty much zero again. There were a few years that were pretty crap getting beaten up.
SBN: It really sounds like there isn’t anything else you would rather be doing, you seem pretty committed to racing.
Brayden: No, nothing else (chuckles) My apprenticeship was only ever to really benefit myself personally and my knowledge. I could have gone and worked for someone but really it was to build my knowledge, it’s always been bikes.
SBN: How did No Bull Racing form.
Brayden: Well in 2017 it went from heaven to hell all pretty quickly, I had come to the UK off the back of winning the Australian Championship and two superbike podiums, I had the goal of going to world superbikes and saw the British superbikes as my ticket to that as that seemed to be common thing with riders. I thought, right I’ll do a year of stock thousand, get the feel of living away from home and use moving to England as a bit of a set up for moving to worlds. I really hadn’t followed BSB that much and really thought of it as a stepping stone to go somewhere else. I turned up thinking like I was going to smoke everyone, I’ll smash this in the first year, I’ll win it. First Round was Donington Park, I hadn’t ridden the bike before or the track and qualified 3rd for my first ever race. This was what I expected, this was my expectation and had a good race. But.. then we moved to Oulton Park, Knockhill, Cadwell , all these tracks that you really can’t learn in a 20 minute practice session and I just started crashing. I had never really been a crasher before I came over to the UK and now I had a really big problem. Although teams expect crashing, this was mental and frankly they lost confidence in me and I lost confidence in them and myself, so went from qualifying 3rd at my first race and finishing 6th or 7th by the end of the year qualifying 35th and barley making the cut off for the grid. So I lost that ride at the end of the year. So I needed to buy a ride, if you wanted to stick around in the paddock you needed to bring money to a team and I couldn’t really afford much so I went with a ride that was affordable and they promised a lot, so I thought it would be good place to start again. Long story short, it didn’t really exist and wasn’t what we thought it would be and they did a runner with my money, so I missed the first few rounds of 2018. I was working two jobs, my partner is working and we are doing everything we can to try and get back on track, literally, but it just wasn’t happening and I really lost a lot of trust in teams after being burnt to so bad and it really was a bit of a rock bottom for us. We had to move out of our house into a 1 bedroom flat but we weren’t really prepared to go home, I always said I would only go home if I had given it 100% and I could live with it, but I really felt like I hadn’t given it my all yet. All my contacts were with Suzuki Australia, so I phoned up and pulled in a lot of favours and bought a bike through Suzuki UK that I owned personally and then had everything for the bike build sent over from Australia. The bike dealership that I was working with at the time allowed me to work on the bike in the evening and I built my own stocker to go back out on track. Looking back it was a disaster, like I needed to do it as I needed to get back out riding but I was in a borrowed van, 1 bike and no spares me and my Mrs turning up and a volunteer to help who had never even been to BSB to just help me. I wouldn’t have been competitive at a club race let along a BSB race but I was doing everything I could to try and keep going and that was pretty much the same through 2019. Scraping together what we could to try and keep riding, but it really wasn’t happening. The only good thing to come out of it was it gave me time to build up my confidence again on the bike and learn the tracks all under the radar a bit and get going a bit. In 2020 I joined up with some other privateer guys, rented a space in their awning and helped me on the tools a little bit which helped me not having to do it myself over a race weekend, which is a massive help. I got my first podium that year in the stock thousand class which was a real turning point. It was the only one that year but we got a few top tens and all the while doing it out the back of a van, so it was definitely pretty crazy. 2021 was very similar, I was always a top 10 runner but didn’t manage to get another podium and I started to get more interest from sponsors and that helped massively with things and we started to get a bit of momentum. I really felt like I wasn’t giving the racing or myself what they deserved, be it through budget or not having the mechanics or not being able to put new tyres in for sessions.
SBN: So, 2022…
Brayden: yeah 2022 was the break out year for me, I had a really good sponsor at the time which came in and helped me with some new Hondas which I was keen to run and helped with budget to run which helped me big style there and was the first time I felt like I had a bike that could do the job, people around that could help me and the results were strong. I was still my own main crew chief, still doing the electronics and suspension myself over a weekend but I had guys now that were there helping me and a real team vibe and that showed in the results. However, at the end of the season if someone asked me, great, now do it all again I don’t think I would have. The enjoyment factor was really gone and the whole situation was both mentally and physically draining. I was diagnosed as being diabetic and it was the first time I thought, if this year didn’t lead to me going with a team, then yes it would be disappointing but I was prepared to go home knowing I gave it everything. I physically couldn’t have done anything else that year – I gave it everything I had.
SBN: But it did. You landed a ride with Dao Racing Team.
Brayden: Thankfully it did, it resulted in interest from Dao and joining the team. A team that could just let me worry about my riding, which I am massively thankful for. I wish the 22 season had happened four or five season earlier, I think I had the ability to do it then but there was so many things I didn’t know back then. I can see why so many Australian riders come here and stay here, now I can understand why. I didn’t realise then that BSB was as competitive as it is, it’s special and looking back to my original plan of worlds, i’m obviously a bit older now and that opportunity may have gone but I am really happy at BSB. I think a BSB round is cooler than a worlds round anyways now!
SBN; Any other platforms that you’d like to try?
Brayden: World Endurance interests me for sure, I like that it’s a bit of a team thing and that riders need to dig deep for long stints. That would really motivate me, test yourself. Fitness and diets, the whole lot.
SBN: Fitness, I saw that you recently underwent a pre-season fitness test. How did that go?
Brayden: Yes the team organise it, together with our fitness plan and nutrition for the year for both myself and Danny. The testing is part of that, we get tested every three months. We went in December to get all our baseline stuff and set our targets in where we need to improve, which holds us pretty accountable as the expectation is to improve at the next assessment. The team that does it will also be at all the rounds with us to make sure we are getting everything we need our weekend schedule.
SBN: What does your weekend nutrition look like then, especially being diabetic.
Brayden: The team organised a different kind of sweat testing, which works out how much salt we loose and works out a bespoke hydration plan to se get the right amount of sodium, electrolytes and all that sort of stuff and what we need to have over the course of a race weekend. Food wise, it’s pretty individual. Danny is more of a veggie but I am type 1 diabetic so I have different type of requirements so my breakfast will normally consist of 60g of oats, protein powder and banana. Sometimes, depending on what I can stomach over a race weekend lunch will be chicken, pasta, rice or potatos. Sometimes I have to eat a gel or something as I need to get a bit more sugar in for my blood levels or a protein bar. I also do shakes with coconut water. Try to get into a routine. Adrenaline can effect blood levels big time. They give me a range which I need to be in, which I do by sticking to a good food routine but before a race what I tend to do I is to get my blood sugar higher than I would normally like to have it just because over the course of that race or session it will drop and by the end of the session I would need to get food in pretty quick to try and bring it back up within range. If I didn’t have it topped up before the session, it would drop to low before the race or session was done.
SBN: Does your fitness regime help with your diabetes?
Brayden: I only got diagnosed in December 2022, so a lot of it has been trail and error but I have never not trained since my diagnosis and I got into a really good routine of what insulin I needed and food to eat and the training that I was doing. So I went from having say 4 injections per day I went to only needing 2 or even just 1 because the training really acts like insulin and brings my blood sugar levels down through my training. So training at the same time and the same sort of meals I managed to get it to a point where it was really predictable. However, over Christmas and new year we went to America to see my partners sister and I had three weeks off training, I didn’t eat stupid or anything but it was a holiday. I actually ran out of insulin. I didn’t expect that not training would impact it so much and I needed more insulin than I had ever done in the last 12 months. When I came back and started training again, it was bang, straight back to normal. So fitness is really key, I do six days a week training, 2 cardio training days, 1-2 hours in the gym per session and something that I have tried to be really strict on is to try and manage a least 1 day of the week to ride a bike. Luckily, I have an indoor MX track near me so I have been getting out on that and pit bikes on the go cart tracks when the weather allows. So this week I rode twice, I went to the gym in the morning and rode in the afternoon. It’s kept me busy.
SBN: Long term future plans?
Brayden: I am on a one year deal with Dao on the superbike this year, it feels like for me that they are really investing in me and with Danny being the race winning champion the expectations to get the bike up the front isn’t there from round one but they have given me all the tools and opportunity and realistic targets throughout the year. I feel really at home there and look forward to working on all that. The targets they have set me are achievable and I definitely want to do more, I really want more for myself. Progression and consistency and I think the results will come. The team is great, I get on great with Danny, done all the fitness tests together, been to Spain together and I have learnt lots from him, he’s been a really great help.
SBN: What’s your biggest impression of the Superbike switching from the Stocker?
Brayden: Probably that it’s a lot less forgiving than the stock 1000 bike, everything from how aggressive it feels, the power, the stiffness of the chassis or how powerful the brakes are. Everything is just a little bit less forgiving. On the stock bike, I felt like if you had a little bit of a moment here or there, a slide or twitch it wasn’t that big of a deal and you could power through it and its fine, but the time that I have had on the superbike if it gets out of shape it really lets you now about it, it wants to throw you off. The superbikes are designed to be ridden at a certain level and my understanding is the faster you ride it the better it gets, I don’t have a massive understanding of the bike yet and my first time really getting to ride it will be rolling out at the Donington test weekend. I think it will just be a time thing, the more confident I get and the faster I get it will feel better. Me and Danny will on the same bikes, with a great team and plenty of data so I think it will all fall into place and progression will be great.
Brayden, what is the one food you would eat for the rest of your life? “..(chuckles) Chicken Schnitzel, chips and gravy..” it’s definitely an Aussie thing, it’s a proper counter lunch at a pub.
The best luggage allows you to explore wherever, whenever. Our range-topping ATLAS modular luggage range can take you to the shops or around the globe.
If you need to expand or contract your carrying capacity, you can quickly add or subtract a bag using its MODULAR LUGGAGE SYSTEM. The main compartments are always accessible even whilst mounted to your bike and four adjustable compression straps per bag ensure load stability.
Your kit will stay dry and be easy to access thanks to its WATERPROOF CONSTRUCTION. The internal waterproof compartment can be fully removed, or even doubled up to keep contents separated and additional waterproof inserts in 10l, 20l or 30l can be added. Just four turns of the roll-top opening creates a watertight seal.
When you want to grab everything quickly off the bike and make a dash for it, you can rely on its UNIVERSAL FAST FIT.
And, because it’s built to last, we offer the peace of mind that comes with a LIFETIME GUARANTEE*.
* Against faulty materials or manufacture. Excludes reasonable wear & tear. This does not affect your statutory rights.
Waterproof construction:
Internal waterproof compartment can be fully removed, or even doubled up to keep contents separated.
Additional waterproof inserts can be added (available separately in 10L, 20L or 30L)
Four turns of the roll-top construction create an airtight seal
Water resistant outer pockets feature YKK® AQUAGUARD® zippers
Wipe clean Hypalon® fabric in main wheel spray zones
Modular luggage system:
If you need to expand or contract your carrying capacity, you can quickly add or subtract a bag using its modular luggage system.
Use 1, 2, 3, 4 or even 5 bags together to create the capacity you need.
Main compartments are always accessible even whilst mounted to your bike
Four adjustable compression straps per bag to ensure load stability
Up to 70L volume/15kg combined maximum weight capacity
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Because you don’t want to waste good riding time fitting your luggage every time you venture out, we have devised the most user-friendly UNIVERSAL FAST FIT attachment system.
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Fun, frolics and low-rate finance promotions to celebrate the season start, GASGAS style.
Taking place from 12th – 14th April at authorised GASGAS dealers.
Yep, you heard us! TAPAS & GAS brings a spicy Spanish energy to UK riders from 12th – 14th April through a weekend of fun, frolics and limited-time finance promotions, taking place at dealers nationwide.
Both existing riders of red and future GASGAS fans are invited to celebrate the start of the 2024 riding season; whether a street bike slayer, trials demon or dirt-roosting offroad rider, everyone is welcome to GET ON THE GAS at their local dealer this month!
Not only is TAPAS & GAS the perfect opportunity to get together with likeminded throttle-happy enthusiasts, it’s also the chance to check out the latest models across the GASGAS Street, Trials, Enduro and Motocross ranges. Selected dealers will offer riders the chance to throw their leg over the SM 700 and ES 700 Street machines to get a real taste of the big-bore GASGAS single-cylinder selection, so those looking to jump onboard a big, red fun machine should contact their local dealer see what’s available.
However it doesn’t stop there. Hitting the 2024 riding season full gas, participating dealers will be offering a series of zero deposit, low rate finance deals – the spiciest of all being a super-low zero per cent – across all models, exclusively for the TAPAS & GAS weekend! With all low finance rates and zero deposit contribution available on both Street and Offroad machines, only within the promotional period of 12th – 21st April*, TAPAS & GAS is definitely an event not to be missed! Full breakdown of promotions below.
Street motorcycles
Finance Product
APR
Minimum
Deposit
Term
Purchase Plan only
0%
£0
12 months
Personal Contract Purchase &
Purchase Plan
0.99%
£0
24 months
Personal Contract Purchase &
Purchase Plan
1.99%
£0
36 months
Personal Contract Purchase &
Purchase Plan
2.99%
£0
48 months
Offroad motorcycles
Product
APR
Minimum
Deposit
Term
Purchase Plan only
0%
£0
12 months
Purchase Plan only
0.99%
£0
24 months
Purchase Plan only
1.99%
£0
36 months
Purchase Plan only
2.99%
£0
48 months
*Motorcycles must be registered and fully paid within promotional time period.
So come on, join the festivities and celebrate the season start in typical Spanish style – food, drink, loads of energy and of course, heaps of fun!
With an attractive design and a vintage style, the AIROH J 110 helmet is one of the 2024 novelties of the Italian brand.
Ideal for the adventurous souls who don’t give up style, J 110 is an urban jet in Composite Carbon that becomes full-face when necessary, thanks to its innovative and high-performance technical features. This product combines aesthetics shapes, comfort and aerodynamics.
For the most demanding riders, AIROH presents the new J 110 helmet, a particularly versatile model – with ECE 2206 and P/J approvals – which offers the possibility to switch easily from urban jet to full face, thanks to its removable chin guard. Furthermore, the Paesly graphic, with the chin guard available in three different color variants, maximizes the customization of this AIROH helmet.
Thanks to this distinctive feature, AIROH J 110 is well suited to any type of journey you want to face riding your motorbike. The captivating design, characterized by a vaguely vintage style, combined with the numerous graphics and bright color variants, will certainly not go unnoticed, whether you’re riding on the most beautiful panoramic roads or through city streets. Intuitive and versatile, J 110 has a manual visor and chin guard equipped with an adjustable air intake, it features also with removable and double-length stop wind and nose cover, for an excellent comfort during all seasons.
A truly distinctive feature, as well as graphics and color variants, is the removable chin guard: with a simple gesture, by applying it or removing it, the helmet transforms, acquiring a new character from both functional and aesthetic points of view. This allows to change completely the way of use but also to deeply modify the helmet graphic, giving life to a new model in shape and design.
AIROH J 110 is made of Composite Carbon to guarantee protection and lightweight. The shell has two different sizes to adapt to different cranial conformities. For maximum protection, it features the ASN system (AIROH Sliding Net), while for superior comfort, the inner linings are hypoallergenic, removable, washable, made with high-quality and breathable fabrics, such as the innovative Coolmax®, and boast exclusive treatments. Equipped also with the Anti-Theft ring, the new J 110 is Communication System Ready.
Suggested retail price starting from 249.99 euros.
DATA SHEET
• Homologation: ECE 2206 and P/J approvals
• Material: Composite Carbon
• Weight: full face version from 1340 g ±50 g; jet version from 1070g ±50g
• Shells and sizes: 2 (XS – S – M | L – XL- XXL)
• Retention system: Micrometric System
• Ventilation: chin guard vent
• Inner linings: Coolmax®, Superior Performance Technical Textiles, 2DRY – Microsense – Sanitized Treatments. Removable, washable and hypoallergenic
• Technology: ASN (AIROH Sliding Net)
• Communication System Ready
• Inside the box: removable summer nose cover, jet version taps, winter stop wind, chin guard
• Other: anti-theft ring
For more AIROH Helmet news check out our dedicated page AIROH Helmet
A full lecture theatre at the National Motor Museum’s Collections Centre at Beaulieu watched the premier of Mary Motorcycle, the story of Mary Sievier the first British woman to ride solo around the world on Saturday evening.
Tributes were paid to Mary, who sadly died in 2023, and a moving portrait featured as part of a Question and Answer session with Saul Jeavons of The Overland Event, adventure motorcyclist Tiffany Coates, and film maker and past editor of Bike Magazine, Martyn Moore.
As well as Friends of the National Motor Museum many leading figures in the overland motorcycle world were in the capacity audience.
Mary’s 1965 BSA Bantam D7 had been bought from the Museum where it has been on loan since the autumn of 2022.
A remarkable untold story
Mary Sievier acquired the Bantam second hand in 1967. Her plan was to ride to Russia, however, the Soviet authorities had different ideas and refused Mary a visa. Undeterred she decided to ride to India instead. An amazing adventure ensued that would see Mary ride the two-stroke BSA overland not only to India but later through East Africa, around Australia, New Zealand and parts of South East Asia. She broke her journey several times to work, her shorthand skills repeatedly coming to the fore with secretarial jobs to finance her adventure. After a period in Hong Kong, where Mary met her future husband, she shipped the BSA across the Pacific to complete her circumnavigation by crossing the USA, returning to the UK in 1976. All this was achieved without fanfare or media attention at the time and Mary’s achievement went largely unnoticed until a few years ago when she was brought to the attention of the adventure motorcycle community.
Patrick Collins, Vehicle Curator at the National Motor museum said, “Our Transport Torque evening was a lovely tribute to Mary Sievier. We are fortunate to have had Mary’s personal memories captured with the film Mary Motorcycle – her experience was truly amazing, and her round-the-world trip was undertaken not for fame or fortune but to satisfy her personal ambition and accomplishment. I was fortunate to meet Mary when she visited the Museum in October 2022 – her motorcycle remains in the Museum as a tribute to her endeavour and unassuming nature.”
Transport Torques
Mary Motorcycle was one of a series of specialist evening lectures or ‘Transport Torques’ in the Collections Centre theatre will bring experts in the field of heritage transport to Beaulieu. This year speakers include Tiff Needell, Anthony Coulls, Christopher McGowan and Andy Saunders. Full details of the events programme are in the National Motor Museum Events 2024 leaflet – downloadable via https://bit.ly/48Qdxkj
Dainese has introduced the next generation of MotoGP hand protection – the Full Metal 7 gloves.
Offering the most advanced hand protection ever, the Full Metal 7 gloves, maximise comfort and lightness whilst increasing riding sensitivity for that all-important handlebar control.
Certified to EN 13594 Level 2, the Full Metal 7 gloves are made from goatskin leather combined with aramid fibre lining and stitching to offer supreme comfort and feel. Packed with Dainese’s innovative technology, the Full Metal 7 gloves feature Pro-Tek titanium inserts with a PU base on the knuckles. These are designed to protect the back of the hand and knuckle area, whilst offering exceptional levels of comfort and hand mobility, further by a pre-curved shape which hugs the knuckle area. The PU co-injected base and titanium plates ensure premium impact protection, excellent sliding and grip avoidance in case of a fall.
Ultimate MotoGP-level protection can be found in every detail of the gloves with the inclusion of TPU finger sliders and Distortion Control Protection on the little finger – a thermoplastic polyurethane insert positioned at the base of the finger to prevent extra rotation of the finger in the event of a fall. The fingers have an elastic and high-tenacity construction with micro-elastic elasticated inserts.
The Full Metal 7 have been pre-curved for race-riding and there are front and rear holes for increased ventilation. The cuff is adjustable to customise for a perfect fit along with a tightening strap to ensure the gloves stay put and keep the rigid inserts in the correct position. Dainese’s Pro-Hand technology can be found on the external side of the palm to aid protection if sliding to prevent further injury.
Riders can choose from Black/Black, Black/Red-Fluo and Black/Yellow-Fluo and in sizes XS-XXXL. The Full Metal 7 gloves have an RRP from £399.95 and will soon be available in Dainese stores and official stockists.
To locate your nearest Dainese dealer, visit www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.
Aprilia and Moto Guzzi invite bikers to discover the new additions for 2024, as well as special benefits that apply across the entire range.
This month, the brands are offering exclusive test rides of Aprilia’s new small sporty bike, the RS 457, as well as Moto Guzzi’s models for adventurous travel: the eagerly awaited Stelvio, and bikes from the revamped V85 range.
Each year, motorbike fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of motorbike season, marked by the special open-door period at Aprilia and Moto Guzzi sales outlets in April. The Aprilia Days and Moto Guzzi Days offer a unique opportunity for all motorcycling fans to jump into the saddle of the latest models from the two iconic Italian brands, and discover the exclusive benefits offered across the entire range of Aprilia and Moto Guzzi models.
Aprilia Days
The biggest star of this years’ APRILIA DAYS is the latest addition to the super-sporty RS family. The new Aprilia RS 457 bursts into the segment of small-displacement sporty bikes that can be driven with an A2 licence: boasting a unique blend of lightness, power, and easy riding, with the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. A true sporting model in pure RS style, this bike is set to become a new technological and stylistic point of reference for young motorcyclists, and retails at £6,500.
The Noale-based company is also offering many other exclusive promotions throughout April on the Aprilia Tuareg. Available in three new eye-catching colours for 2024 – the evocative Dakar Podium, Atreides Black and Canyon Sand – the twin-cylinder adventure bike is available for purchase with a £750 discount.
Discounts of £750 are also available on the other models in the RS660, as well as £250 on the 125 range (RS, Tuono, RX and SX).
To find out more and to book an appointment, visit the webpage:
https://www.aprilia.com/gb_EN/promotions/ Moto Guzzi Days
The MOTO GUZZI DAYS 2024 set off in search of adventure, with the eagerly awaited, new Moto Guzzi Stelvio available for test rides.
The house of the Eagle’s on- and off-road model, developed on Moto Guzzi’s most advanced technical base, boasts leading performance thanks to its twin-cylinder compact block engine, in addition to innovative technologies designed to maximise both riding pleasure and safety.
The new Moto Guzzi Stelvio is available at a price of £14,700 while the version that features the innovative PFF Rider Assistance Solution platform is available to purchase for £15,400
The spotlight also falls on the models in the new V85 range. The eagle brand’s iconic travel enduro bike is available for test rides in the form of the V85 Strada, V85 TT and V85 TT Travel versions. This diverse range caters to all motorcyclists eager to set off on an adventure, regardless of their destination.
For the entire month of April, customers can enjoy exclusive trade-in offer of up to £1000 on the V100 Mandello roadster.
To find out more and to book an appointment, visit the webpage:
22 riders. 300 horsepower each. Are you ready to rodeo?
Last time Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) led the World Championship, it didn’t last long as part of a rollercoaster duel to the end of the season. But this time, the hunter will remain the hunted not only from the conclusion of the Portuguese Grand Prix until the next round, but also until at least after the Tissot Sprint at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas. 18 points doesn’t mean he can relax in this rodeo – it never does in the world’s most exciting sport – but it does mean he’s now holding quite a few cards as the paddock heads stateside for Round 3.
THE CHASERS
Closest to Martin heading to COTA is Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), whose season so far has consistently been one spent at the front barring that one DNF in the Sprint in Portugal. He’ll be the first looking to cut the gap back down, and looking to get back on the podium as a bare minimum.
Then there’s Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). One of only three riders in the field who’ve won at COTA and close to Martin’s tail by the end of the GP race in Portugal, the ‘Beast’ will want to come out swinging and show Qatar was most definitely a blip. Meanwhile, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) arrives fresh from his first premier class podium and still very much riding a wave of fully deserved hype. Can he maintain the roll at COTA and finish as top RC16 again? Or more? Binder won his third race, so that’s one milestone on the line in a fight that’s fast mixing overtakes and pride in the KTM/GASGAS camp. Binder will also want to make his own statement in that.
PECCO vs MARQUEZ: PT1
There was already plenty to talk about in the fight just behind the top three in Portugal, even before *that* moment. Reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) didn’t find that step he had done in Qatar, and that was interesting in itself. Then came Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), in the #1’s postcode in 2024 despite Pecco’s domination at the venue the season before. But there’s even more.
From Bagnaia’s perspective, beating Marc Marquez in the way he tried to last Sunday was exactly what he had to do to take his first win. Lap after lap, the two disappeared at the front at Aragon in 2021: Marquez’ backyard, a talisman track. Bagnaia rolled on as the number 93 loomed, dropped back a couple of metres, and then loomed again. Over the last three laps, Marc Marquez made seven attempts at overtaking the now-two-time MotoGP™ champion ahead of him, and Bagnaia repelled all of them with perfect judgement of where the move was coming and how he needed to respond to brush it off. That’s consistently been one of his calling cards. So why change what worked a dream before?
From Marquez’ perspective, it’s a shorter term question: why change what worked a dream on Saturday? Sure, it may be a different rider, with a slightly different playbook, but it’s equally understandable to expect the same or a similar result when you make the same move. And it was clean enough. Going when he did, and not waiting for the final lap, also likely made the #93 more confident of success, thinking it was even less expected than it seemed it had been on Saturday. But this time round, there was a response, and the two lines crossed as the two Champions collided.
REVENGE: A DISH BEST SERVED AT COTA?
The judgement from the FIM MotoGP™ Stewards was racing incident. The fact you can make both cases and, ignoring one, make the other sound like the whole truth and nothing but, makes it hard to argue with that call from a neutral perspective. But Bagnaia and Marquez will remain partisan, and now the race is on to come out on top next time the two share a racetrack. In a battle, in pure pace, however it may be.
So now, we have an eight-time World Champion with seven wins at COTA, plus one comeback from dead last to sixth, looking to show that it’s not him in Bagnaia’s postcode, it’s the #1 trespassing on his. Especially here, a track that used to simply have Marquez pencilled next to victory as a formality. On a different bike, against different rivals, is an eighth about to prove a point, and at his 250th GP? Meanwhile Bagnaia, after stunning speed in the Sprint to win before a crash out the lead on Sunday at COTA last year, knows just how sweet it would be to prove the exact opposite. At a talisman track, just like Aragon.
A TALE OF TWO HALVES
So what of the other drama in Portugal? Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) became a Tissot Sprint winner in style on Saturday, moving through to the front and then giving Martin no right to reply. He was also just about close enough coming out of the final corner on the penultimate lap on Sunday to at least still be looking for an opportunity to do the double. But it wasn’t to be as a late technical issue took the chance and those 20 points away, and they were 20 points that would have put him third in the standings. Can COTA bring some redemption, less for man and instead for machine? Teammate Aleix Espargaro, meanwhile, will want more too after a difficult weekend in Portugal looking for more pace, and Austin would be a statement place to find it after a tougher track record at the venue for the #41.
At Trackhouse Racing, Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez will both be looking for more on track, but the spotlight is guaranteed off it as the new American team prepare to race on home soil for the first time. Their bikes will be in downtown Austin, the sister NASCAR team will do a demo lap, the flags will be flying and the fans excited to see that incredible livery up close and personal. It’s also Raul Fernandez’ 100th GP so there will be plenty to celebrate.
ON THE MOVE
Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) had a pretty successful Sunday he can use as a springboard to try and home in on the podium fight, and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) wrung a solid result out on the Algarve too as Yamaha look for more progress. They’ve confirmed they’ll continue doing so with ‘El Diablo’ too as the Frenchman has been announced as staying for another two seasons. On the other side of the box, teammate Alex Rins will want to stay the course over race distance in the coming weekends, but this one in particular will be very interesting after the number 42 won in awesome style in Austin last season. It was also only his third weekend on the Honda. Now it’s his third weekend on the Yamaha, and his speed at COTA across the classes has been proven on plenty of occasions, as well as on two different premier class machines.
There were some positive signs for Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) in Portugal too as the number #72 took sixth on Sunday after a really tough opener. It’s not victory but it’s a step towards it, onto more familiar turf. Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), meanwhile, may well have crashed out early on Sunday last time out, but considering he missed all of pre-season due to the training crash he suffered at the very same venue, his speed itself was pretty noteworthy on the Algarve. Can he take another step in Austin?
Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) should be noted for some positives from Portugal too, the 2020 Champion taking P12 but with quite some daylight ahead of the other Hondas, led by Takaaki Nakagami (Idemitsu Honda LCR). The task is a group project to move forward for the Japanese factory, but the squabble for supremacy within had a very clear victor last time out. Mir also only had Quartararo ahead of him of those machines with the most concessions under the new system. Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) also had a notable step forward last time out, just missing out on the top ten in a close finish behind Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team).
LOOKING FOR MORE
‘Diggia’ is one looking for his Qatar speed and form over the latter half of 2023, and Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) is another after he’d had Mir’s number in Qatar, although he is very new to the bike, and so far has the edge on fellow Honda debutant Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team). Marini will hope that the venue where he took his first premier class podium, thanks to both form and memories, will prove a turning point as he adapts to a new machine.
Last but by no means least, Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) had a slightly AWOL weekend in Portugal, 13th in the Sprint and then crashing early on Sunday. Given his successes last season and a solid opener in Qatar, he’d be the first to say that the target is much more. Can he lock on target for a quick bounce back in Austin? We’re about to find out.
A new Championship leader with a gap that presents a conundrum between push and manage. A South African on the verge of becoming the rider from his nation with most podiums, with a point to prove on his machine as well as to the rest. A rookie whose point is already somewhat proven, a ‘Beast’ finding even more beauty… and a bubbling rivalry between two riders with a combined 11 world titles, one of whom saddles up with seven COTA trophies already nestled in his trophy cabinet. It’s time for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas. Surely, we’ll see you there?
TISSOT SPRINT: 15:00 (UTC -5) on Saturday
GRAND PRIX RACE: 14:00 on Sunday
For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page
Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) waited a long time for his maiden Moto2™ win, but when it came it was in some style, and for the Championship lead.
That’s something he’ll want to double down on at COTA, a track where he’s won in Moto3™ and once been on pole by nearly a whole second. In the dry. With his Moto2™ victory duck broken, can he rediscover that Texas pace?
Home hero Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) will be looking to impress again on home turf after taking second last time out, and fellow Algarve podium finisher Manuel Gonzalez (QJMotor Gresini Moto2™) will want to show he’s here to stay at the front. The biggest threat, however, despite neither being near the top of the Championship as it stands, may well be the Beta Tools SpeedUp pairing of Qatar GP winner Alonso Lopez and pre-season title favourite Fermin Aldeguer.
It’s been bad luck and trouble for both to varying degrees so far. Lopez won Qatar and then crashed out the lead in Portugal. Aldeguer went the opposite way to many on tyre choice in Qatar and failed to even score… and then jumped the start in Portugal. But that didn’t end the show, it started it. The number 54 went on an incredible charge to come back from the requisite two Long Laps given for the jump start, getting his elbows out in the podium fight before ultimately being forced to settle for fourth. If both avoid drama, they’re likely to take some beating at COTA.
Tune in for more awesome Moto2™ action at the Americas GP at 12:15 local time (UTC -5) to see who hits next!
For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page
After a masterclass from David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) at Round 1, the Colombian was missing from the podium in Portugal as three key rivals hit back.
Two stayed out of trouble after a more dramatic Qatar GP, but one simply went one better: Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3). That puts Holgado in the Championship lead, with Alonso looking to overhaul a seven-point gap in second.
Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) were the two who took their first podiums of the season on the Algarve, and after their Round 1 drama was also shared. Rueda will want to show he’s got staying power at the front and try and take that first win at COTA, whereas Ortola will be looking to go back-to-back. Last season, he took his maiden win at the track and in serious style, pulling off a miracle save and then charging back up the order. Can he do it again to cut that 22 point gap to the top as we arrive at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas? We’ll find out on Sunday at 11:00 (UTC -5)!
For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page
Motorcycle footwear specialist, TCX has introduced a brand new touring boot for 2024, the Tourstep WP.
The Tourstep WP boots are ideal for any type of urban and long-distance casual riding.
Made from a microfibre upper and lined with a T-Dry waterproof membrane, the Tourstep WP boots offer protection from adverse weather conditions, ensuring feet stay dry and warm. There are reinforcements on the ankle, toe and heel to protect riders in an impact. TCX’s ZPlate® midsole insert provides protection, thanks to its transverse rigidity, while not sacrificing comfort due to its longitudinal flexibility.
Comfort and boot longevity is furthered by the inclusion of an Ortholite® cushioning footbed – unlike traditional foam, the Ortholite foam compresses less than 5% over the product’s lifetime, so the cushioning, fit and performance never change.
The innovative Groundtrax® rubber soles are engineered to provide optimal grip on and off the bike – even in wet weather to offer maximum confidence.
The Tourstep WP boots have a protective shifter guard and reflective inserts for maximum visibility in all conditions. They are fastened by a band and Velcro lace-up fastening system with a strap closure for a secure and precise fit.
The Tourstep WP boots come in black with an RRP of £149.99 and are available in sizes EU36-48.
For more information or to locate your local TCX Boots dealer, visit www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.
The 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship kicked off with an exciting test weekend at Donington Park, with Kyle Ryde emerging as the rider to beat.
Ryde topped the overall combined classification, setting a blistering lap time of 1:27.650, leaving his rivals playing catch-up.
Defending champion Tommy Bridewell, who claimed the 2023 title, demonstrated his consistency throughout the weekend, securing 6th position in the overall standings. Bridewell’s best lap time of 1:28.530 suggests he will remain a strong contender as he aims to defend his crown.
Glenn Irwin and Ryan Vickers also showcased their speed, finishing 2nd and 3rd in the overall combined times, respectively. With Vickers clocking a 1:28.356 and Irwin posting a 1:28.173, both riders have firmly established themselves as serious title challengers for the upcoming season.
Other notable performances came from Andrew Irwin and Peter Hickman, who secured top-ten positions in the overall standings. Dean Harrison and Leon Haslam also showed promise, finishing within the top 11 and indicating they will be forces to be reckoned with once the racing action begins.
As the BSB grid looks ahead to the start of the 2024 season, the test weekend at Donington Park has set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling and highly competitive championship battle. With Kyle Ryde leading the charge and Tommy Bridewell hot on his heels, fans can expect an exhilarating season of racing action.
The opening round of the 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship is set to take place at Circuito de Navarra 20/21 April, where riders will have their first opportunity to score crucial points and lay down a marker for the rest of the season.
Superstock
The Pirelli National Superstock class saw fierce competition during the recent test at Donington Park, with Davey Todd emerging as the rider to beat. Riding for the Cheshire Mouldings BMW by TAS Racing team, Todd set a blistering pace, topping the overall combined classification with a best lap time of 1:29.119.
Hot on Todd’s heels was Joe Talbot, representing JR Performance Racing Honda. Talbot’s consistent performance throughout the test sessions, including a best lap of 1:29.991 in the final session, indicates he will be a formidable challenger for race wins this season.
Josh Owens, aboard the IN Competition / SENCAT Aprilia, also impressed, securing the third spot in the overall standings with a best lap time of 1:30.487. Owens’ ability to quickly adapt to the Aprilia machine suggests he will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 championship.
Jamie Perrin, riding for Jamie Perrin / Team APS Honda, and Simon Reid, representing Cumins by Team IWR Honda, both demonstrated strong pace, finishing fourth and sixth overall, respectively.
The test sessions also saw impressive performances from David Allingham, Connor Thomson, and John McGuinness, all of whom will be looking to make their mark on the championship once the racing action begins.
As the Pirelli National Superstock class prepares for the start of the 2024 season, the Donington Park test has provided a tantalizing glimpse of the exciting battles that lie ahead. With Davey Todd setting the early benchmark and a host of talented riders in hot pursuit, fans can expect a thrilling and closely-fought championship.
The opening round of the 2024 Pirelli National Superstock Championship will take place at Oulton Park 4 – 6 May, where riders will have their first opportunity to turn their testing form into race results and stake their claim for the title.
Supersport and GP2
The Quattro Group British Supersport and GP2 classes showcased their talent during the recent test at Donington Park, with Benjamin Currie and Owen Jenner setting the benchmark in their respective categories.
In the Supersport class, Benjamin Currie, riding for the Oxford Products Racing Ducati team, topped the overall combined classification with a best lap time of 1:30.585. Currie’s consistency and speed throughout the test sessions mark him as a serious title contender for the 2024 season.
Luke Stapleford, representing Macadam Triumph Racing, was hot on Currie’s heels, securing the second spot in the overall Supersport standings with a best lap of 1:31.067 in the final session. Stapleford’s performance suggests he will be a formidable challenger for race wins this year.
Eugene McManus, aboard the ROKiT Haslam Racing Ducati, also impressed, claiming the third position in the Supersport class with a best lap time of 1:31.104. McManus’ pace throughout the test sessions indicates he will be a rider to watch in the upcoming races.
The test sessions also saw strong performances from Jack Kennedy, James McManus, and Michael Dunlop, all of whom will be looking to make their mark on the Supersport championship once the racing action begins.
In the GP2 class, Owen Jenner, riding for Kramer Racing, dominated the field, setting a best lap time of 1:33.899. Jenner’s consistently quick laps throughout the test sessions highlight the potential of the Kramer machine and position him as the early favourite for the GP2 title.
Jenner’s teammate, Jack Nixon, also showed impressive speed, finishing second in the GP2 class with a best lap time of 1:35.593. The Kramer Racing team’s performance suggests they will be a force to be reckoned with in the GP2 category this season.
Lucca Allen, representing Team FR89 on the Kalex bike, secured the third spot in the GP2 class with a best lap of 1:36.428, demonstrating his potential to challenge for podium finishes.
As the British Supersport and GP2 classes gear up for the start of the 2024 season, the Donington Park test has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and closely-fought battle in both categories. With Benjamin Currie and Owen Jenner leading the charge in their respective classes, fans can anticipate thrilling races and fierce competition throughout the championship.
The opening round of the 2024 Quattro Group British Supersport and GP2 Championships will take place alongside the superbikes at Circuito de Navarra.
The Triumph Bonneville T120: A Timeless Legend of Performance and Elegance
The Triumph Bonneville T120, a true symbol of motorcycling heritage, has made a triumphant return, capturing the hearts of riders worldwide. With its timeless design, powerful engine, and cutting-edge features, this motorcycle delivers an exhilarating ride that blends classic charm with modern innovation.
The season’s first taste of sandy terrain greeted the stars of the MXGPWorld Motocross Championships as round three was hosted by the Crossodromo Communale, known locally as “Le Dune” or “Riola Sand”. As well as a tough, ever-shifting surface that carved up throughout the weekend, the physical challenge was amplified by temperatures close to 30 degress Centigrade, testing even the most highly-trained athletes to the maximum.
As in 2023, reigning MXGP World Champion Jorge Prado had takena dominant win for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing in Saturday’s RAM Qualifying Race, as did his fellow red plate holder Kay de Wolfin the MX2 class for Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing. Both of the Championship leaders continued their perfect winning records with their third overall victory in a row, although some classic challengers were on hand to give notice that they are ready to catch them if they slip up.
The crowd were treated to a stunning morning of racing in both the WMX Women’s World Motocross Championships, won by Lotte van Drunen of the De Baets Yamaha MX-Team, and the EMX125 European Championships Presented by FMF, won by Hungarian Noel Zanocz for Fantic Factory Racing EMX125. Then the main course of MX2 and MXGP was served, piping hot, in a gruelling test of both man and machine.
As in Saturday’s RAM Qualifying Race, JorgePrado was beaten to the Fox Holeshot Award of race one by Kawasaki Racing Team’s Jeremy Seewer, but a quick inside move into the second corner saw the reigning World Champion back in his usual leading position. Team HRC’s Tim Gajser made a quick move past the Swiss rider in turn four and Pauls Jonass took his Standing Construct Honda through into third at the same time!
The two Honda men set after chasing the Red Plate Holder, while last year’s winner, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings, had started outside the top five and had to haul his way through the pack. This he did to great effect, reaching third place by lap six, but at that point the leading pair were far off into the distance.
Seewer fell dramatically after five minutes, but would recover to finish 11th, while his teammate Romain Febvre, consigned to the far outside of the start gate after being unable to finish Saturday’s race, worked his way up to 6th place with a series of passes. Jonass slipped to 5th behind the Fantic Factory Racing pilot Glenn Coldenhoff in the closing laps.
At this time it looked like Gajser was closing in on Prado, getting to within two seconds of the Spaniard, but was never allowed to get closer as the champ took yet another race win.
Race two again saw Seewer fast out of the gate, but Prado was right there immediately to just edge ahead over the Fox Holeshot Award line. Herlings railed around the Kawasaki man in turn two and now it was “The Bullet” who had the task of challenging Prado. Behind him, JM Racing Honda stand-in Tim Edberg was briefly up into 4th, before Jonass and Gajser pushed past early on. Febvre had to charge once more, nearly crashing in a dramatic moment where he nearly collided with JK Racing Yamaha’s Isak Gifting on the take-off of one of the biggest jumps on the track.
After 16 minutes, Herlings had got to within striking distance of Prado and was hoping to uncork some of his old magic, but the Dutchman just pushed the front end too hard into a left-hand corner and was suddenly on the ground! Gajser accepted the gift of 2nd place, which kept the Championship damage to a minimum, but the leader was off the hook and cruised to his fourth straight GP race win.
The Slovenian fell on the final lap, but he had enough time to pick himself up and still claim 2nd ahead of Herlings, Jonass, Febvre, and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s Calvin Vlaanderen. Calvin’s guest teammate for the weekend, FIM World Sand Races Champion Todd Kellett, ran as high as 13th before a small crash put him back to 16th at the flag for his first Grand Prix points since 2021.
Prado’s 41st career Grand Prix win now puts him 17 points clear of Gajser, and Herlings’ first podium of the season has moved him up to third in the standings. Will the strong fan support that Gajser always gets at the MXGP of Trentino spur him on to challenge the Champion next weekend? He certainly needs to start clawing the points back, as does anyone else with eyes on his title! Jorge Prado: “I’m in a good moment right now, I’m feeling very good on the bike and we do a great work with the team. I’m so happy to be winning here in the sand again as it’s been a long time since I got an overall in the sand. I was very close last year few times but I guess now you can call me the ‘Sand Man’ again!”
Tim Gajser: “I mean it was a consistent weekend so I have to be happy with that. We take quite good points for the championship. I didn’t feel that good the whole weekend as I was struggling a bit with the bike set up but anyway, I’m happy to finish on the podium. Now sand is done and we go to Arco (Trentino) and I’m looking forward to be there with so many fans. I want to say a huge thank you to all my team as everybody is working super hard and I thank everybody around me and all the fans!”
Jeffrey Herlings: “It’s good as every GPs it’s getting better. From Argentina to Sardegna I improved every time. Especially after the crash of yesterday in the warm-up and my sore ribs but i make no excuses, third was all I had for today but I feel like we’re getting better and better so let’s keep on going.”
Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing’s red plate holder Kay de Wolf, and his teammate Lucas Coenen, had dominated the timesheets leading up to the racing, although the Dutchman had extended his Championship lead with victory in the RAM Qualifying Race. The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Sacha Coenen took his third Fox Holeshot Award of the season in race one on Sunday, and looked intent on keeping the lead for longer than before, but he couldn’t resist the unstoppable force of De Wolf who launched his machine off the finish line jump further than Sacha to lead at the start of lap three!
It was starting to look ominous for the rest, until Lucas made a swift pass on his brother during lap four, and proceeded to reel in his teammate!
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Andrea Adamo battled with the Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing team leader Simon Laengenfelder, as Sacha Coenen fell from 3rd on lap nine. The position was gratefully taken by Camden McLellan, having his best weekend yet for Monster Energy Triumph Racing.
Twenty minutes into the race saw some mistakes creeping into the leader’s riding as his teammate drew near, and on lap thirteen De Wolf ran slightly high on the Pit Lane corner, giving Lucas the half-chance he needed to fire past without a second invitation! He then set some blazing lap times to score his first GP race win of the season. McLellan stayed in third, holding off the charge from Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 rider Thibault Benistant. The Frenchman dropped the bike on the last lap, however, and would finish 10th, as Adamo and Laengenfelder inherited 4th & 5th.
De Wolf looked a little more concerned on the start line of race one, but while Sacha Coenen again grabbed the Fox Holeshot Award ahead of Adamo and Laengenfelder, Kay pulled a stunning move around turn two to catapult himself past all of them and into the lead! Mikkel Haarup was having no such fun, however, picking up his Triumph in the first corner, just as he did in race one. The Dane would recover well to an eventual 9th.
Lucas Coenen saw his teammate start to disappear, and swiftly dispatched both his brother and Laengenfelder to move into 2nd by the start of the first full lap, although the German did resist by briefly moving back ahead. Sacha dropped the bike from 4th at the ten minute mark, promoting Adamo, who chased after Laengenfelder again!
Incredibly, Lucas got close to Kay, but finally pushed just a little too hard and hit the floor in a banked right-hand corner! Laengenfelder was promoted briefly, but again got passed by the Belgian before the finish. He would also lose 3rd to the charging Adamo, but the Italian made a mistake on the corner before Pit Lane, and blasted down the back of the mechanics’ area to maintain his position. The rules state that a rider must come to a stop at some point in Pit Lane, so this move led to a disqualification for the reigning World Champion, costing him an overall podium position.
This left Laengenfelder third in the race ahead of Adamo’s teammate Liam Everts and McLellan, whose fifth place was enough for third overall, making it the second podium for the Triumph team in their first three rounds!
De Wolf took the chequered flag 11 seconds clear of his teammate, which gave him the overall victory once more. Lucas Coenen had to be satisfied with his first overall podium of the season, and a move up to third in the standings. Laengenfelder’s 4th overall leaves him 29 points behind De Wolf and the closest chaser in the Championship. He will welcome a return to harder surfaces in the GPs to come, and this MX2 season is only just beginning to develop! Kay De Wolf: ”Lucas was doing also an amazing job in the second race. He really kept me . Three in a row is amazing and hopefully we can keep this momentuk going into next week and we just keep aiming for a podium that’s the main goal. I l;ook forward for Trentinoand I can’t thank the team enough for this one!”
Lucas Coenen ”First race was perfect as I managed to get Kay in the end. In the second race I had a bad start but managed to get back in his wheel but I made a stupid tipover, I wanted to follow him like I did in race one but this mistake put me to where I am now. The win is coming though and the first podium of the season is not bad.”
Camden McLellan: “I’m not feeling very great right now but I’m very happy and I can’t thanks Monster Energy Triumph Racing crew enough. They took a chance on me and it’s paying off as I’m getting better every weekend. I want to thank also Vinc (Bereni), my two mechanics. It was a long long weekend and long second race and I’m feeling it but I’m happy
MX2 – Race 1 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), 35:19.551; 2. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), +0:29.973; 3. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:44.818; 4. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), +0:57.193; 5. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +1:02.153; 6. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +1:30.780; 7. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +1:44.715; 8. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +2:08.283; 9. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), +2:43.473; 10. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), -1 lap(s)
MX2 – Race 2 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), 35:29.714; 2. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), +0:11.684; 3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +0:34.815; 4. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:35.604; 5. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:46.165; 6. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), +0:51.182; 7. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), +0:56.417; 8. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +1:08.803; 9. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +1:15.472; 10. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GASGAS), +1:26.480
MX2 Overall – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 47 points; 2. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 47 p.; 3. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 36 p.; 4. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 34 p.; 5. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 31 p.; 6. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 28 p.; 7. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 28 p.; 8. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 25 p.; 9. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), 23 p.; 10. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GAS), 21 p.; 11. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 20 p.; 12. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 18 p.; 13. Kay Karssemakers (NED, FAN), 13 p.; 14. Jens Walvoort (NED, KTM)
MX2 World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 170 points; 2. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 141 p.; 3. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 124 p.; 4. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 106 p.; 5. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 100 p.; 6. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 96 p.; 7. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 95 p.; 8. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GAS), 80 p.; 9. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 78 p.; 10. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), 77 p.
The 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship kicked off with the opening R&G Official Test at Donington Park and Kyle Ryde set the benchmark to hold off Glenn Irwin to top the times on the OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing R1 ahead of the Circuito de Navarra season opener (April 20-21).
Ryde had been the target ahead of the final session, upping the pace throughout the day as the local contender picked up where he left off at the end of 2023, pushing for the leading positions. In the last session of the weekend the threat of rain increased, but Ryde was ready for a final attack and on his first flying lap he became the only rider to dip into the 1m:27s barrier to maintain his edge.
Glenn Irwin had been closing the gap in the afternoon, but the Hager PBM Ducati rider didn’t get the chance to push for a flying lap before the rain started and he ended the opening weekend of testing in second place, 0.523s adrift of Ryde.
Irwin split the two OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing teammates, who had been locked at the top for the majority of the weekend as Ryan Vickers held third overall at the chequered flag.
Andrew Irwin was leading the Honda Racing UK charge in fourth place and just 0.063s ahead of his teammate and reigning champion Tommy Bridewell, whilst Peter Hickman completed the top six for the FHO Racing BMW Motorrad Team as four manufacturers featured inside the top six positions.
Danny Kent had a strong start to his move to Yamaha for the new season with a seventh place on the McAMS Racing Yamaha, equalling the same best time as Hickman, whilst the pair were only 0.001s ahead of Jason O’Halloran on the Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki.
Dean Harrison ensured all three Honda Racing UK riders featured inside the top ten, with Leon Haslam completing the leading ten riders after the opening weekend of official testing as the Championship now looks ahead to the season opener at Circuito de Navarra in Northern Spain.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship Series Director Stuart Higgs commented: “After what seemed to be a very long winter, it’s great to get the season underway with the official test at Donington Park. We were quite lucky with the weather, so we saw some meaningful lap times put in.
“It’s great to see the first evidence of the new technical regulations and new confined choice on tyre material, new liveries, new team and rider combinations, so it’s always a very exciting and motivating weekend.
“The lap time performances have shown that there’s a great deal of depth of competition amongst everybody. One small caveat, we did see some rogue lap times, as it was an official test, the full track limits monitoring capability wasn’t in place, so we will get to see more representative times when we reconvene in just nine days at Circuito de Navarra.
“Right now the paddock and everybody are packing and we head south. Hopefully we’ll see some of you there and for those that aren’t making the trip; you’ll be able to see all the action live and free-to-air on Quest.”
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Donington Park, combined times:
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 1m:27.650s
Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati) +0.523s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +0.706s
Andrew Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +0.817s
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +0.880s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad Team) +1.014s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +1.014s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +1.015s
Dean Harrison (Honda Racing UK) +1.227s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) +1.230s
Kyle Ryde continued his strong form at Donington Park by topping the opening day of the R&G Official Test at Donington Park as the 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship season got underway ahead of the season opener at Circuito de Navarra (April 20 – 21).
Ryde had initially set the benchmark earlier in the afternoon, but in the final session of the day, he further asserted his position at the top of the times by improving his pace by 0.228s on the penultimate lap of his final run.
The OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing teammates continued to lock out the leading two positions with Ryan Vickers in close contention at the end of the opening day on track, whilst Glenn Irwin completed the top three on his return with Hager PBM Ducati.
The Honda Racing UK charge was led by Dean Harrison as he launched up the order in the final session, edging out Leon Haslam and his teammate Tommy Bridewell who completed the top six.
Peter Hickman was the fastest of the FHO Racing BMW Motorrad Team riders in seventh, marginally ahead of Jason O’Halloran on the Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki, Josh Brookes and Charlie Nesbitt who completed the top ten for MasterMac Honda.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Donington Park, day one combined result:
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 1m:28.367s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +0.117s
Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati) +0.327s
Dean Harrison (Honda Racing UK) +0.510s
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) +0.513s
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +0.658s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +0.726s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +0.799s
The temperatures soared into the high twenties at the Crossodromo Communale in the heart of the Mediterranean, but it was the red plate holders Jorge Prado and Kay De Wolf who made their competition hot under the collar with more dominant displays to take the RAM Qualifying Race wins in their respective classes!
Race one of the WMX Women’s World Motocross Championship was a thriller, decided by a last lap pass by De Baets Yamaha MX-Team’s Lotte van Drunen over Daniela Guillen of the RFME GASGAS MX Junior Team! The first race in the EMX125 Presented by FMF Championship was similarly dramatic with Dutchman Gyan Doensen completing a comeback of his own to claim his first win for Racestore KTM Factory Rookies.
After a collision with another rider caused a crash in Free Practice for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s red plate holder Jorge Prado, he came back to top the table in Time Practice to grab first gate pick for the RAM Qualifying Race, but only by seven hundredths of a second from Jeffrey Herlings, who was showing his pace for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in second.
For once, Prado was beaten to the first corner, this time by Kawasaki Racing Team pilot Jeremy Seewer, who bolted into the lead ahead of the reigning champ as Tim Gajser slotted his Team HRC Honda into third. Seewer’s teammate Romain Febvre was less fortunate and crashed in turn one, then suffered a technical issue as he fought back, coming to a halt after eight minutes of the race. He stays third in the Championship, but is now 32 points back from the lead.
Seewer made a small mistake halfway round the first lap, allowing Prado to pounce just as Gajser was starting to threaten him. Tim got past the Swiss rider on the following circulation and tried to prevent Prado from pulling away. Calvin Vlaanderen started to challenge Herlings for 4th but spun sideways by the Pit Lane , allowing the Standing Construct Honda of Pauls Jonass through into a 5th place which he kept to the flag. At half distance, Herlings got onto Seewer’s back wheel and the Kawasaki man jumped too far into a long-left hander, giving “The Bullet” his chance to move into third.
Prado was able to stretch his lead to over 8 seconds from Gajser at one point, and despite a late tangle with a lapped rider he kept it all under control to win yet again on Saturday and stretch his lead over Gajser in the standings to 11 points. Herlings closes to just 7 behind Febvre in 4th.
Jorge Prado: “I got a good jump out of the gate even if Seewer was faster than me on this one. I could pass him real quick as he made a little mistake. I tried already in the third corner to attack but he defended well but then few corners later he made another mistake and I was right there to make the pass. I’m riding good laps, nothing crazy, I was trying to not lose too much energy for tomorrow. As I hurt my foot a bit but it got better along the way. Let’s have a rest now and hopefully another win tomorrow”
The Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing teammates, Lucas Coenen and series leader Kay de Wolf, were over a second clear of everybody in both Practice sessions, with the Belgian holding the edge over the red plate holder. However, as his brother Sacha Coenen grabbed the holeshot for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, Lucas hit the floor in turn one alongside reigning Champion and Sacha’s teammate Andrea Adamo.
The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 pairing of Rick Elzinga and Thibault Benistant pushed past Sacha in the second corner, with De Wolf following them through into 3rd. Elzinga held off his more experienced teammate and was enjoying the sand, as was De Wolf who passed Benistant on his second attempt to run second at the end of the first full lap.
It took Kay just one more lap to dive inside the line of his countryman in a slick move, from which he instantly powered away from the opposition. Meanwhile, Camden McLellan had a great start for Monster Energy Triumph Racing and moved past Sacha Coenen into 4th at half-distance. At one point the South African ran up the banking of the final corner in an attempt to pass Elzinga, who had just been overtaken by Benistant, but stayed in 4th to the finish for his best result of the year so far.
Benistant did all he could to keep De Wolf honest, and the gap was 3.3 seconds at the close. Elzinga also had his best finish yet in a great 3rd from McLellan and a charging Simon Laengenfelder, as the Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing man took 5th place ahead of Liam Everts. This leaves the German still second in the points chase, now 15 points behind De Wolf. Lucas Coenen charged back to take 9th place and 2 points, but there was no such success for Adamo who could only get back to 12th. Despite this, the Italian is still third in the standings but just a single point ahead of Benistant.
With temperatures not likely to drop in tomorrow’s races with the earlier start times, it will be a gruelling battle in both classes just to get to the finish, meaning that anything could happen in the full Grand Prix on Sunday!
Kay de Wolf:“The track is getting very tough but it’s shaping on nicely and I really enjoy it at the moment. I was struggling a little bit halfway in keeping my pace up and I tried to slow down a little bit but Thibault (Benistant) was still pushing me. It will be good tomorrow with an extra 10 minutes and another physical track hopefully!”
MX2 – RAM Qualifying Race – Top 10 Classification: Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), 24:07.498; 2. Thibault Benistant (FRA, Yamaha), +0:03.300; 3. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +0:21.657; 4. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, Triumph), +0:24.234; 5. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +0:26.976; 6. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:27.558; 7. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +0:28.289; 8. Andrea Bonacorsi (ITA, Yamaha), +0:29.172; 9. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), +0:29.983; 10. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), +0:35.030;
MX2 – World Championship – Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 123 points; 2. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 107 p.; 3. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 82 p.; 4. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 81 p.; 5. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 77 p.; 6. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 68 p.; 7. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, TRI), 59 p.; 8. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, GAS), 59 p.; 9. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), 54 p.; 10. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 50 p
MXGP OF SARDEGNA QUICK FACTS:
Circuit length: 1750m
Type of ground: Sand
Temperature: 22°
Weather conditions: Sunny
The output of news is increasing as the countdown to TT 2024 accelerates. The Seeded runners for the Sidecar class have been released; they feature a hand brake turn; rather than a U turn for one legendary rider.
The retirement from racing of the most successful passenger in TT history meant that the most successful team and the lap record holders at 120.645mph; would be broken up. Ben Birchall’s replacement in the chair for Tom Birchall was known at the time of the Manx Grand Prix when Kevin Rousseau was aboard the Hager Honda for the closed roads testing of the new Hoosier tyres. This will be a step up in pace for Kevin; the margins will be tight; for a new crew to lap at record pace to secure victory is not beyond the realms of possibility; but it is a big ask.
Pete Founds and Jevan Walmsley (FHO Honda) lapped at 120.079mph in the second race last year. Their confidence from that and their years of experience together may just tip the balance in their favour. If they can keep Ben and Kevin in sight they will win. Third away will be Ryan and Callum Crowe; this year the Honda is sponsored by Kelproperties. A minor prang in practice knocked them back last year; despite this they lapped at 118.570mph in race 2, to be third on the all-time list. A trouble free run this year could see them join the 120mph club and take more podium finishes.
Multiple World Champion Tim Reeves and Mark Wilkes have the number 4 plate; they have finished on the podium together twice and if they can have races free of mechanical gremlins, they could add to that tally on the Carl Cox Honda. Next away will be the great, 17 times winner, Dave Molyneux. He has given up on his KTM experiment and returned to the Kawasaki power that brought him 3 of his wins. Dave has the youngest passenger in the race; in the shape of 20 years old Jake Roberts of Ramsey. All being well they can be within the top 6.
An emotional John Holden announced his retirement at the end of last year’s TT; a career that brought him 2 wins and 20 podium finishes. A hand brake turn has brough him back; with new passenger Frank Claeys on a Carl Cox sponsored KTM; hopefully the motor will prove robust this year. Father and son; Steve and Matty Ramsden are at 7 on the RS Motorcycles Honda. They are improving year on year and set their best lap at 114.405mph last year. A podium finish looks beyond them this year; but they could be in the top 6.
The returning Lee Crawford and Tom Christie are on the ARC Kawasaki. These lads are seriously fast everywhere they race. Their best lap from 2022 of 111.102mph does show their true potential. These are dark horses well worth looking out for; expect a top 6 from them. Lewis Blackstock / Patrick Rosney (Dave Holden Yamaha) are another pair back after a sabbatical. They have a best finish of 4th from 2017; they will be hoping to be in the top 6 this year. Alan Founds and new passenger Rhys Gibbons are the final seeded pairing. Alan’s TT did not go as planned last year; but he is a very fine driver. If Rhys settles to the task; it is a big task; and Alan can lap close to his best, they could be close to a top 6 finish.
Below the seeds there will be some focus on Darryl Gibson (newcomer driver last year, but experienced passenger) and Tom Christie. They can be expected to break the 115mph barrier this year. It will be interesting to see if Michael Russell and Vicky Cooke can find the 4.5mph needed for Vicky to become the fastest lady passenger.
Tim Reeves and Mark Wilkes
John Holden and Maxime Vassuer in what was going to be John’s last lap
Norton Motorcycles has announced its sponsorship of the Lansdowne Classic Series for the 2024 season.
Founded in 1998, the Lansdowne Classic Series is a British Championship dedicated to preserving the spirit of historic Grand Prix racing. Featuring pre-1965 motorcycles, the Norton Manx has been a prominent favourite on the grid since its inauguration.
As a headline sponsor, Norton Motorcycles is happy to support the motorcycling community that it has long been a proud member of. The 2024 season will also include the introduction of the Norton Rider of the Meeting, a commendation for a competitor at each round of the championship.
Robert Hentschel, CEO of Norton Motorcycles, said: “While Norton has an illustrious history within international motorcycle racing, we recognise the importance of investing in grassroot motorsports in the UK. With our new sponsorship of the Lansdowne Classic Series, we look forward to supporting the motorcycling community throughout the season.”
Gordon Russell, Lansdowne Classic Series Organiser, said: “We are delighted to have Norton join the series this year. It will help raise the profile of the series, and classic racing, and hopefully attract new (and old) riders to get involved. It really is a very special community of riders and Grand Prix motorcycles that are the envy of any paddock. We are recreating the sight, sounds and spirit of racing in the 1950s and early 1960s. Our rules are designed to create a level playing field so you will always see some of the closest racing at any meeting.”
The opening round of the season begins on the 6th – 7th April at Pembrey Circuit.
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is delighted to announce that Fabio Quartararo will stay with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team for a further two years.
It is with great pleasure that Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. confirm Fabio Quartararo as a Factory Yamaha rider for the 2025 and 2026 MotoGP season.
Keeping the exceptionally talented Frenchman in the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team was top priority for the Iwata factory, as they are putting their full effort into supporting Quartararo. His decision to ‘stay with the blue team’ was positively influenced by the strong commitment Yamaha has made to return to winning ways with the ongoing development of the YZR-M1.
Though ‘only’ in their fourth year together, the Quartararo-Yamaha combination is already considered a natural pairing amongst MotoGP fans. The successful partnership led to Quartararo’s first MotoGP World Championship Title in 2021, in his very first season with the Factory Team, and to the Vice Champion Title in 2022.
Further Yamaha highlights on Quartararo’s résumé are the 8 race wins and 21 podiums with the Factory Team over the 2021-2024 seasons so far, as well as the 3 race wins and 10 podiums with the satellite team the two years prior. Moreover, he secured 16 pole positions, and 41 front-row starts out of a total of 93 Grand Prix weekends aboard the YZR-M1.
These achievements, on top of his undeniable skills, unequalled motivation, and infectious cheerful personality, have Yamaha fully confident in their partnership with the 24-year-old.
LIN JARVIS Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing
“We are very pleased that Fabio will remain a Yamaha rider.
“Keeping Fabio as a part of the Factory Team is integral to Yamaha’s MotoGP Project. Fabio is an exceptional talent, a hard worker, a great team player, and he has many competitive years ahead of him.
“Yamaha Motor Company, Yamaha Motor Racing, and the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are sparing no effort to ensure a bright future with Fabio by taking a more ‘aggressive approach’ to bike development.
“We have already made significant changes to our organisation including a new internal management system, recruitment of top expertise within the industry, new external technical partnerships, increased development budget, and an intensified testing programme. All these changes are designed to speed up the process for us to return to winning ways.
“Fabio has understood this commitment, and this has given him the confidence to make his decision to stay with us for the coming years.
“Fabio has been with Yamaha since 2019 and with us, the Factory Team, since 2021. In a relatively short time span of just four years, we achieved many successes: 8 wins, 21 podiums, a MotoGP World Title, and a Vice Champion Title.
“We are the first to admit that there is much work to do to get back to the competitive level we were at in 2021 and the first half of 2022. But with Fabio you know he will always put in 100% of his best effort. It also comes natural to him to create harmony and a good atmosphere with all staff members. He can count on the Team’s and Yamaha’s full support every step of the way as we challenge to win more championships together.”
FABIO QUARTARARO
“I am super happy to announce that I am going to continue my adventure in BLUE!
“Last winter Yamaha proved to me that they have a new approach and a new aggressive mindset. My confidence is high: we will be back at the front together!
“Six years ago, they gave me the chance to step up to MotoGP, and since then we have achieved great things together. We still have a long way ahead of us to start fighting for victory again. I will work hard, and I am sure that, together, we will achieve our dream once more!”
FABIO QUARTARARO
Personal Profile
Date of birth: 20 April 1999
Place of birth: Nice, France
Nationality: French
Height: 177 cm
Weight: 69 kg
Racing Career
First Grand Prix: Qatar GP 2015 (Moto3)
First Grand Prix Win: Catalan GP 2018 (Moto2)
First Premier Class Grand Prix Win: 2020 Spanish GP
Grand Prix Wins: 12 (11x MotoGP, 1x Moto2)
Podiums: 35 (31x MotoGP, 2x Moto2, 2x Moto3)
Pole positions: 19 (16x MotoGP, 1x Moto2, 2x Moto3)
World Championship Titles: 1 (2021 MotoGP World Champion with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team)
2023 MotoGP World Championship (10th – 172 points)
2022 MotoGP World Championship (2nd – 248 points) [Vice Champion]
2021 MotoGP World Championship (1st – 278 points) [World Champion]
2020 MotoGP World Championship (8th – 127 points)
2019 MotoGP World Championship (5th – 192 points) [Rookie of the Year, Top Independent Rider]
2018 Moto2 World Championship (10th – 138 points)
2017 Moto2 World Championship (13th – 64 points)
2016 Moto3 World Championship (13th – 83 points)
2015 Moto3 World Championship (10th – 92 points)
Ducati and Shell renew their global technical partnership with a development focus on high-performance engine lubricants.
Ducati and Shell Lubricants announce the renewal of their global technical partnership for another 3 years and will continue to collaborate in the design of lubricants for high-performance engines, with the aim of enhancing the performance of Ducati motorcycles and giving emotions to Ducatisti. Shell will also maintain its role as supplier of engine oils for the first refuelling of all motorcycles produced in the Ducati factories in Bologna (Italy) and Rayong (Thailand) and for the Ducati dealer network in Italy, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Benelux , Spain, Portugal, United States, Canada, China, Japan and Australia.
As part of the partnership agreement, Shell will supply the Ducati dealer network with Shell Advance Ducati engine oil and Ducati Corse Performance Oil powered by Shell Advance. The latter, launched in 2023, is a perfect example of the success of this collaboration. Born from the experience acquired in racing competition, Ducati Corse Performance Oil Powered by Shell Advance can be used on the Desmosedici Stradale and Desmosedici Stradale R engines of the Panigale V4, Streetfighter V4 and Multistrada RS, which adopt a dry clutch as original equipment or as a Ducati Performance accessory. This lubricant can be used starting from the first oil change, offering gains of up to 3.5 horsepower at maximum power.
Francesco Milicia, VP Sales and After Sales Ducati Motor Holding:” Our Company firmly believes in the transfer of knowledge and technologies from the world of racing competition to production motorcycles. The partnership with Shell, which has been successfully at our side for more than 20 years, also follows this approach. The renewal of the agreement allows us to continue working together on increasingly high-performance products, with the aim of enhancing the performance of our motorcycles, as recently happened with the Ducati Corse Performance Oil Powered by Shell Advance.”
Aysun Akik, Vice President New Business Development and Global Key Accounts at Shell Lubricants: “The extension of our collaboration is testament to the strength of our 25-year relationship with Ducati, and will see us continuing to take the learnings and innovations from the racetrack to deliver better road-going products for the benefit of Ducati and Shell customers around the world.”
Ducati and Shell began their collaboration in 1999, with Shell alongside Ducati Corse in the Superbike World Championship, before extending it four years later into the MotoGP World Championship. The technical partnership is one of the most recognizable and successful in motorsport. All the bikes used by the Ducati Team in MotoGP and by the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team in Superbike use special Shell Advance formulations.
For more Ducati news check out our dedicated page Ducati UK News
Introducing the new RPHA 12 premium sport helmet, packed full of impressive features designed to enhance your riding experience. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort on your journeys. The brand new sleek aerodynamic design not only improves performance but also enhances stability at high speeds. The curved shield features a convenient two-way pivot system for an easier adjustment and offers improved sealing. The all new enlarged eye port improves your field of view. The helmet’s 3D design ensures a secure fit for added safety. Reflective trimming on the cheek pads enhances visibility in low-light conditions, and an emergency pull tab adds an extra layer of safety, so no matter where you ride either the track or street you will be getting the best performance possible.
Code: zz-rp12syxs
RRP: £469.99
Key Features
Premium Integrated Matrix / P.I.M. EVO: Reinforcement materials including Carbon-Aramid hybrid and natural fibre, provide enhanced shock-resistant performance, more comfort, and lightness of the helmet.
Pinlock® ready HJ-42 visor: Provides 99% UV protection, anti-scratch coated; two way pivot ratchet provides smooth ratchet movement & improved sealing.
Aerodynamic shell structure for extreme performance at maximum speeds.
ACS (Advanced Channelling Ventilation System) – 4 intakes for maximum air intake and 3 exhausts to expel warm air for defogging, side exhaust vents remove exhaled air and lessen wind noise.
Emergency Kit (cheek pads) for safe and quick rescue in emergency situation.
Wider eye port provides better peripheral vision for riders.
Interior with advanced anti-bacteria fabric provides enhanced moisture wicking and quick drying function.
Crown and cheek pads are removable and washable.
Helmet comes standard with both 2D clear and light smoke visor, Pinlock®, chin curtain and breath deflector.
Double-D ring locking system
Warranty lasts up to 5 years from the date of purchase, or 7 years from the date of manufacturing (whichever comes first).
Clubs galore are set to celebrate anniversaries and milestones, at this year’s Stafford Bike Show, with iconic machines being put on display!
The International Classic MotorCycle Show sponsored by Carole Nash will once again play host to tons of motorcycle clubs showcasing diverse themes. Taking place from April 20-21, 2024 at the Stafford County Showground, the show has become a highlight on the calendars of motorcycle lovers worldwide. With over 100 clubs set to participate this year, visitors can look forward to several celebrations at their stands.
Leading the charge this year is the Ducati Owners Club who will be celebrating their 50th anniversary. With half a century of Ducati excellence to commemorate, visitors can expect a vibrant display of legendary machines and club camaraderie.
The Ariel Leader & Arrow Club are spotlighting the Ariel Arrow 200, marking the 65-year anniversary of this iconic one-year-only machine. To honour the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and Operation Overlord, the British Owners Club (Essex) will be paying tribute to history with 11 allied motorcycles of various makes and a vast collection of military equipment and memorabilia at their stand.
Nick Mowbray, event managerof the show’s organiser Mortons Media said: “These clubs represent the heart and soul of the classic bike community and we’re truly excited to showcase their celebrations at Stafford.”
Adding to the excitement of the show are the guests, celebrated TT icon Phillip McCallen is Saturday’s guest while renowned motorcycle racer and TV presenter Guy Martin is the special guest on Sunday. Both guests will participate in live interviews on their respective days.
More details of the event will be released in the coming weeks…keep up to date by visiting www.classicbikeshows.com
Road racing hero Michael Dunlop is convinced he can fight at the front when he returns to the FIM Endurance World Championship this season.
Dunlop, from Northern Ireland, has 25 Isle of Man TT victories to his name – only his famous uncle, the late Joey Dunlop, has more wins with 26. But having made only one EWC start to date, he’ll be a virtual novice when he contests the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans in France from 18-21 April.
Forming part of the Honda-powered TRT27 AZ Moto line-up in the Superstock-based FIM Endurance World Cup alongside team-mates Ben Luxton, Tom Oliver and Tom Ward, Dunlop has no plans to make up the numbers, however.
“Both Toms had worked with a friend of mine in British Superbike and they sort of needed someone who knew the bike a little bit and asked me if I’d care to join them,” Dunlop explained. “I said, ‘yeah, no problem’. It’s obviously different to the bike I rode last year but I’d like to be able to give them a hand because they’re fast lads. If we can give them a help with the base it would be great to see them doing well.
“But 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 but there are obviously four of us here this year. Ben has joined the team and he looks fast so hopefully we can put on a good show.”
As well as making the transition from the road to the track, Dunlop will have to get used to racing after dark, although that prospect doesn’t faze the 34-year-old.
“People think you’re racing at night [at Le Mans] but when you’re here it’s all lit up,” Dunlop said. “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.”
Dunlop’s only previous EWC outing ended in disappointment, as he recalled:“One of the riders had a massive crash and broke the bike in half so we didn’t get to finish it sadly. But it’s something I’d always like to do but never got the opportunity. This has come up and it’s good.”
Given his considerable achievements in road racing, what convinced Dunlop that competing in the EWC is for him?
Something like this would be great and it would be a good window for me, especially for what I do. Somebody like me should excel at this because it’s plug along, keep going, a bit like the Isle of Man TT, you’ve got to keep going, keep pushing, keep going, keep pushing.
“A lot of people do 25 minutes and that’s the race over. In the TT I’m doing an hour and 45 minutes, maybe coming in and having two races in the day. Hopefully in this I can keep battling on and maintaining the laps. I suppose that’s what I’m here for and to keep upright as well. I do think I should have some pace if I can get the feeling and be as good as the rest of the lads.”
Of his plans for the remainder of the four-event EWC season, Dunlop said: “It was a bit of a squeeze to get this one, the team has obviously switched from manufacturers and there’s been a big push to get this thing going. I’d love to [carry on] and obviously a massive goal would be to go and do Suzuka but it’s never that easy, but time will tell probably.”
But why not?
“That’s it, I’d love to do it if it’s possible just because Suzuka is the be all and end all isn’t it really,” Dunlop said. “Don’t get me wrong, Le Mans will be full to the rafters come race day but there’s just something about Suzuka, especially with the Japanese manufacturers it seems to be the pinnacle of the sport.”
And of the prospect of racing against his 46 rivals in the 24 Heures Motos, Dunlop said: “Obviously the TT is not like that because we’re single file, going on our own every 10 seconds. But it’s no different to the national racing we do, the short circuits and bits and pieces. Le Mans is a bit different because you never really know who you’re dicing with because they might be a lap down, a lap up. It’s just timing and pitstops but the main thing is keeping all the lads together. I don’t work with team-mates much because obviously in my own team we do our own thing. That will be interesting if I can bring as much to the table as these boys. The two Toms have done it before but Ben is completely new to it, but he will be fast and I don’t see why we can’t be good.”
The 47th running of the 24 Heures Motos opens the 2024 EWC season from 18-21 April at Le Mans in France. Ticket information is available HERE.
Over the last few years, more and more people have been liking tinted windows in their cars. However, it is not only for the sake of beauty that people are nowadays making more and more decisions to tint their car windows. For many drivers, finding reputable providers for car window tinting near me is crucial.
Protect yourself from harmful UV rays
For many drivers, shielding themselves and their occupants from the sun’s UV rays is one of the most crucial factors that make them opt for car window tinting. A long period of sunbathing may cause several health problems, including the aging process, skin cancer, and eye damage. Designed for blocking UV transmission, the best-performing films consequently reduce health problems caused by the sun. With tinted windows already installed, the drivers are guaranteed extra protection for themselves and their families while on the roads for a long duration.
In addition to this, a portion of the UV radiation can pass through the regular car windows exposing occupants to harmful radiation even if they are inside the car. This amplifies the issue of these drivers who are highway users, may it be commuters or long-distance travelers. Through the use of darkened windows, drivers can essentially decrease the number of UV transmissions, thereby creating a healthy and safer in-car environment.
Enhanced Safety and Comfort for Families and Pets
For families with young children and pets, car window tinting provides an additional layer of safety and comfort. Tinted windows help regulate the interior temperature of the vehicle by reducing heat buildup from direct sunlight. This can be particularly beneficial during hot summer months, preventing discomfort and potential heat-related illnesses for passengers, including pets left inside the car.
Furthermore, tinted windows offer protection against glare, which can be distracting and potentially dangerous while driving. By reducing glare, tinted windows enhance visibility and improve overall driving safety, especially during bright daylight hours or when facing oncoming headlights at night.
Additionally, tinted windows offer a level of privacy, shielding families from prying eyes while traveling. Whether embarking on a family vacation or simply running errands around town, passengers can enjoy a sense of seclusion and security with tinted windows.
Increased Privacy and Security
Another significant advantage of car window tinting is the enhanced privacy it offers. Darkened windows not only add a touch of elegance to the vehicle’s appearance but also provide occupants with a sense of seclusion from the outside world. Whether commuting through busy city streets or embarking on a long road trip, tinted windows afford passengers a degree of privacy, preventing unwanted attention and potential theft.
Moreover, tinted windows can deter burglars by concealing valuables left inside the car, reducing the risk of break-ins. Tinted windows obscure the view into the vehicle, making it more difficult for opportunistic thieves to identify valuable items and temptations for theft.
Choosing the Right Tinting Solution
When considering car window tinting, it’s essential to choose the right tinting solution that meets your specific needs and preferences. Factors to consider include the level of UV protection, heat rejection capabilities, and legal regulations governing window tinting in your region. Additionally, opt for reputable tinting professionals who use high-quality materials and adhere to industry standards to ensure flawless installation and long-lasting results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the multifaceted benefits of car window tinting, such as UV ray protection, enhanced safety and comfort for families and pets, and increased privacy and security, contribute to its growing popularity. By investing in professional window tinting services, car owners can enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and more stylish driving experience. So, why wait? Explore the possibilities of car window tinting today and reap the rewards of a cooler, safer, and more private ride.
With the new 2024 MotoGP and WorldSBK seasons underway, and BSB racing not far away – now is the time to check racing wardrobes and update kit in preparation of upcoming track days.
All items were developed in Furygan’s racing department in Nîmes, France, with such riders as Johann Zarco (MotoGP) and Isle of Man TT legend Michael Dunlop providing the real-life testing knowledge needed to perfect the innovative technologies and kit for track use…
Overtake
The Overtake is the top-of-the-range suit that was developed over three years in conjunction with the same elements used to develop those worn by Furygan’s MotoGP and WorldSBK riders.
With an RRP of £129.99, the Styg15 Lady gloves come in sizes XS-XL and are available in: Black/Pink.
Racing Rain Suit
The Racing Rain Suit protects riders from wet weather and the cold, while maintaining the looks, comfort and safety requirements that are needed to perform on track – something that might be of use with the fickle English weather.
This oversuit complements racing suits by being tight fitting and superior thanks to its numerous stretch zones between the legs, above the knees and the seat for better fit and comfort. Most of all, it limits water infiltration without hindering your movements.
With an RRP of £169.99, the Racing Rain Suit comes in sizes S-M.
Tanker bag
Furygan’s Tanker bag is sturdy and organised for use on holiday – or for loading up the van to carry gear to track days.
The Tanker bag offers ease of use in a number of ways – the first being the spacious and adaptable main compartment that divides into two for better organisation. To keep documents easily accessible when travelling, there are two travel pockets for your convenience. Carrying is made easy with five handles – including a lightweight, retractable, aluminium handle to pull the Tanker bag. Additional comfort is supplied by silent rolling rubber wheels.
With an RRP of £249.99, the Tanker bag comes in a single size, a capacity of 133/166 litres and dimensions in centimetres measuring: L40xW83xH40 (50 with the additional gusset).
Knee Sliders
Often the performance is in the details – which is why Furygan’s Knee Sliders were developed for racers and casual riders alike.
Giving knees additional protection when on track and helping to improve cornering skills, these polyurethane knee sliders are attractive and eye-catching – with the iconic Furygan ‘panther’ logo graphic available in red, white or black. The material underpinning the slider features the Furygan writing in white on a black background.
With an RRP of £44.99, the Knee Sliders come in a single size and are available in three colourways: Black/Red, Black/White and Black/Black.
D3O® Race L2 Elbows
New for this year and developed in conjunction with D3O®, the Race L2 Elbows are RACE range protectors for the most intensive use and tested by riders in all championships. More enveloping, more breathable and more protective for track use.
The Furygan and D3O® partnership offers a wide range of certified level 1 and 2 protections. These include protectors for the elbows, shoulders, back, metacarpals, malleolus, hips and knees. D3O® offers the world’s most advanced impact protection, soft and flexible material for unmatched comfort – plus flexibility and ergonomics whether on or off-road.
With an RRP of £24.99, the D3O® Race L2 Elbows are available in a single size as a pair.
Visit www.furygan.com for more information on Furygan products or to locate your nearest dealer.
The EA147 saddle bag from GIVI stands out thanks to its versatility and functionality by transforming into a backpack that can hold anything in size up to a full-face helmet.
A very common need among two-wheeler users is capacity, and increasing the load that can be carried onboard their bike. GIVI, the transalpine firm of motorbike and motorcyclist equipment, designs a multitude of cases and bags, so that they can fit all types of models. In this case, it has thought of those motorcyclists who don’t wish to clutter up their saddle but still want to be able to take everything they need for a weekend of riding with them. Once again catering to the needs of all bikers, the Italian brand presents the ultimate solution for carrying your belongings in comfort and style even when you get off the bike. Its TAILOCK EA147 saddle bag can be converted into a backpack, boasts of a capacity of a rucksack, and offers unprecedented versatility for two-wheeled enthusiasts.
With a history marked by a passion for motorcycling and constant innovation, GIVI has established itself as a benchmark in the motorbike accessories sector. Since its foundation in 1978 by Giuseppe Visenzi, a former Motorcycle World Championship rider, the Italian brand has been able to combine “Made in Italy” craftsmanship with the highest technology, creating products that enhance both performance and safety on the road and that meet the needs of all types of motorcyclists. An example of this is its EA147 saddle bag that solves one of the inconveniences that many bikers suffer from: where to store and transport their belongings when they park their bike.
This bag is made of high quality materials such as durable 1200D POLY/PU and has reflective piping for increased visibility. One of the stand out features of the TAILOCK EA147 is its practicality. This is mainly due to its 30-litre capacity, which is expandable to 38 litres, and gives the user the possibility of storing even a full-face helmet inside. It’s also equipped with a shoulder strap system that allows it to be easily converted into a comfortable, efficient backpack. What’s more, it includes a back pocket with double zip: the upper zip contains padding for the back panel, while the lower zip holds a waterproof rain cover made of fluorescent yellow material, guaranteeing the protection of the bag’s contents in adverse conditions. It’s easy to attach to the bike with the TANKLOCK system, meaning it can be done with a single click.
In other words, the GIVI EA147 saddle bag is the perfect combination of functionality, comfort and safety. With its innovative design that converts into a backpack and its expandable capacity, it offers a unique solution for carrying everything you need in any situation. Available for £134.50.
For more information about this product or any other accessories for your motorcycle visit www.givi.co.uk or call 01327 706220.
For more GIVI UK News check out our new dedicated page GIVI UK News
The Celer v3 Leather Glove is a durable, short cuff, road riding glove incorporating extensive goat leather for superior abrasion resistance and Alpinestars Sport hard PU knuckle protector for effective impact protection.
Primed for use with naked sports bikes, the Celer v3’s stripped-back design is also appealing for Touring and Urban riders looking for a comfortable, yet protective, leather glove.
Code: 35670241100
RRP: £79.99
Key Features
Goat leather main chassis construction for high levels of comfort, abrasion resistance and breathability.
Conductive suede material along the full length of the index finger and on the thumb tip for touchscreen operation of smartphones and GPS systems.
Strategically positioned rubber grips for optimal control and feel with the bike’s controls.
Closed backhand gusset for full freedom of movement and superior adaptability.
Ergonomic stretch on the side of the hand offers flexibility to vastly improve hand movement.
Stretch on the centre between the fingers for enhanced flexibility and a highly adaptive fit.
Short cuff design with hook and loop grip closure and a puller tab for convenience.
Protection
Alpinestars race-proven Sport hard PU knuckle protection system with an ultra-ergonomic shape for superior impact and abrasion resistance.
Leather palm construction incorporates padding reinforcements on the palm landing zone, side of the hand and fingers for additional coverage and excellent durability and comfort.
Alpinestars short finger bridge to prevent finger roll and separation during impacts.
In its latest update since the completely revamped 2023 KTM SX range, the 2025 KTM SX and 2025 KTM SX-F range have upped the ante when it comes to rider connection, composure and control – along with the return of a fan favourite.
The best luggage allows you to explore wherever, whenever. Our range-topping ATLAS modular luggage range can take you to the shops or around the globe.
Waterproof construction:
Modular luggage system:
Lifetime guarantee:
Fun, frolics and low-rate finance promotions to celebrate the season start, GASGAS style.
With an attractive design and a vintage style, the AIROH J 110 helmet is one of the 2024 novelties of the Italian brand. 
Suggested retail price starting from 249.99 euros.
A full lecture theatre at the National Motor Museum’s Collections Centre at Beaulieu watched the premier of Mary Motorcycle, the story of Mary Sievier the first British woman to ride solo around the world on Saturday evening. 
A remarkable untold story
Aprilia and Moto Guzzi invite bikers to discover the new additions for 2024, as well as special benefits that apply across the entire range.
22 riders. 300 horsepower each. Are you ready to rodeo?
Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) waited a long time for his maiden Moto2™ win, but when it came it was in some style, and for the Championship lead. 
After a masterclass from David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) at Round 1, the Colombian was missing from the podium in Portugal as three key rivals hit back. 
Motorcycle footwear specialist, TCX has introduced a brand new touring boot for 2024, the Tourstep WP. 
The Triumph Bonneville T120: A Timeless Legend of Performance and Elegance 
Kyle Ryde continued his strong form at Donington Park by topping the opening day of the R&G Official Test at Donington Park as the 2024 Bennetts 
Norton Motorcycles has announced its sponsorship of the Lansdowne Classic Series for the 2024 season.
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is delighted to announce that Fabio Quartararo will stay with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team for a further two years.
Ducati and Shell renew their global technical partnership with a development focus on high-performance engine lubricants.
NEW HJC RPHA 12 Spasso
Clubs galore are set to celebrate anniversaries and milestones, at this year’s Stafford Bike Show, with iconic machines being put on display!
Road racing hero Michael Dunlop is convinced he can fight at the front when he returns to the FIM Endurance World Championship this season.
“Both Toms had worked with a friend of mine in 
“People think you’re racing at night [at Le Mans] but when you’re here it’s all lit up,” Dunlop said. “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.”
With the new 2024 MotoGP and WorldSBK seasons underway, and BSB racing not far away – now is the time to check racing wardrobes and update kit in preparation of upcoming track days.
Overtake
Comfort is guaranteed with neoprene inserts at the collar and on the wrists, the use of morpho stretch panels and selected perforated areas to maintain excellent air circulation. Ensuring riders feel the true benefit when tucked in on the bike, the aerodynamic speed hump optimises drag and comfort in the ‘speed’ position. Protection at higher speeds is provided by Kevlar© reinforcements at the hips, seat and forearms, D3O© shoulder and elbow protectors, triple stitching, chest protector pockets and the Overtake is compatible with the Furygan Airbag Vest.
The Overtake is available in three colour options (Black/Red/White, Black/White & Black/Blue/White) and in sizes 46/36-58/48, with an RRP of £999.99.
Styg20 X Kevlar© Racing Gloves
Racing Rain Suit
Tanker bag
Knee Sliders
D3O® Race L2 Elbows
The EA147 saddle bag from GIVI stands out thanks to its versatility and functionality by transforming into a backpack that can hold anything in size up to a full-face helmet.
With a history marked by a passion for motorcycling and constant innovation, 
This bag is made of high quality materials such as durable 1200D POLY/PU and has reflective piping for increased visibility. One of the stand out features of the TAILOCK EA147 is its practicality. This is mainly due to its 30-litre capacity, which is expandable to 38 litres, and gives the user the possibility of storing even a full-face helmet inside. It’s also equipped with a shoulder strap system that allows it to be easily converted into a comfortable, efficient backpack. What’s more, it includes a back pocket with double zip: the upper zip contains padding for the back panel, while the lower zip holds a waterproof rain cover made of fluorescent yellow material, guaranteeing the protection of the bag’s contents in adverse conditions. It’s easy to attach to the bike with the TANKLOCK system, meaning it can be done with a single click.
In other words, the 
Key Features