Three-time World Superbike champion Troy Bayliss has confirmed that a bicycle crash last Friday, 14th May, has left him with a fractured C4 vertebra and corresponding spinal damage that will see the active 52-year-old Ducati legend on the sidelines for several months.
With Troy having no exact recollection of the incident, it appears that another bicycle was exiting between two parked cars and he has collided head first into it. Most of the impact was transferred through his head to his neck, and he lost consciousness. He was immediately treated and taken to hospital.
While the injuries are serious, Troy’s condition is stable. He returned to his Gold Coast home yesterday to begin his recovery.
Troy Bayliss:
“I’m OK and I’m home, but the crash means I won’t be riding a motorcycle until I regain full movement in my arms and hands. I really just wanted to let everyone know what’s happened, that I’m OK and that I’ll be back in leathers as soon as I can. It’s been an intense weekend for me and my family, but luckily I’m OK and I will recover. My doctors have been really positive, but there’s no firm indication of how long it will be until I can regain enough control to get back on a bike – maybe a few months, maybe longer; it just depends on how the recovery goes once the bones heal up.”
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The first of two events to be broadcast live and free-to-air this season, the French GP lands on ITV4.
Dorna Sports is delighted to confirm free-to-air coverage of the SHARK Grand Prix de France across the UK. The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship races of all three classes – MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ – will all be shown live on ITV4 on Sunday the 16th of May.
ITV4 became the new home of free-to-air MotoGP™ highlights at the start of 2021, with a comprehensive package covering the best of each race weekend on Monday evenings. Now, the first of two races to be shown live in 2021 will provide supplementary free-to-air race day broadcasting, giving fans watching on ITV4 extended coverage of the world’s fastest motorcycle racing Championship.
The British Grand Prix will also be shown live on ITV [main channel] later this season, with the MotoGP™ race at Silverstone set to be broadcast live. Fans in the UK can continue to watch every race, qualifying and practice session from every MotoGP™ World Championship class and Grand Prix on BT Sport.
For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page
Royal Enfield Twins FT to debut at UK Flat Track competition with Gary Birtwistle.
Gary Birtwistle is gearing up to race Royal Enfield Twins FT at UK Flat Track’s first seasonal event at Norfolk Arena, 8 May. Last month Royal Enfield announced the brand’s debut on the European racing circuit with news of an exciting sponsorship and collaboration with Gary Birtwistle for the 2021 DTRA Flat Track racing season. Gary will campaign Royal Enfield’s purpose-built flat track racing motorcycles, the Twins FT, in all races in the 2021 DTRA calendar.
The DTRA series is the most prestigious flat track series outside of the USA and Royal Enfield is excited to partner with Gary, the reigning 2019 European and British Hooligan flat track champion as part of its development program for the Twins FT.
Says Adrian Sellers, head of Royal Enfield’s Custom Program; “We’re very excited to be teaming up with Gary for this project and it marks yet another major brand milestone in the EU region – the very first time a Royal Enfield is going to be officially lining up for a competitive race on European soil. We’re still in our development phase with the Twins FT, and we are looking forward to working with Gary to make the bike even better. The race bike has been worked on tirelessly by the teams at the Royal Enfield UKTC, Harris Performance and our partners in the US, and the bike has evolved a lot in just the past few months. Add into the mix an incredibly experienced racer in Gary and you have a recipe for being both as competitive as possible and gaining invaluable experience in our debut season.”
Says Gary, “”It’s a great pleasure to be partnering with Royal Enfield for 2021 and beyond. I’m really excited to be a part of the 650 racing programme, working with Royal Enfield and Harris to help try and get the most out of the package is really motivating. I’ve really enjoyed getting the laps in before the season starts; I think we could have a good chance at the British Championship this year. I’m raring to go for the first event of the year, especially with Royal Enfield’s support.”
Upcoming events:
// May 8th/9th Norfolk Arena
// June 12th/13th Greenfield Dirt Track, Lincs
// Jul 17th/18th Amman Valley, Wales (1/2 mile)
// Aug 14th/15th Redcar Speedway, Redcar
// Sept 11th/12th Greenfield Dirt Track, Lincs (TT)
For more Royal Enfield news check out our dedicated page Royal Enfield News
Five-time Isle of Man TT winner Peter Hickman has announced a deeper relationship with Dunlop Motorcycle Europe that will include an Official Brand Ambassador role, adding to his duties as a Dunlop test tyre rider.
The 34-year old Englishman chose Dunlop tyres to help him achieve success at the Isle of Man TT and other challenging road races such as the Macau and Ulster Grand Prix. He won his first TT in 2018, setting an all time lap record of 135.452 mph (217.989 km/h) on the final lap on his BMW S 1000 RR.
The following year, he stamped his name in the Ulster Grand Prix record books, establishing the Northern Ireland road circuit as even faster than the Manx lap with a stunning 136.415 mph (219.539 km/h) average, with peak speeds well over 200 mph (322 km/h).
The pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of the key road races in both 2020 and 2021, but Hickman has been able to stay sharp in his role as official Dunlop tyre tester. Testing Dunlop’s latest development tyres for road and track at venues such as the brand’s proving grounds in Mireval, France, means that Hickman has been able to have a direct input into the future generations of Dunlop hypersport tyres.
The new partnership involves Hickman becoming an Official Dunlop Brand Ambassador, giving Dunlop customers an opportunity to meet him at post-lockdown events. Dunlop Motorcycle Europe’s social media channels will also feature thrilling and exclusive content from the record-breaking racer. Fans will be able to see his content by following @DunlopMoto on Facebook and Instagram.
Hickman has a family history with Dunlop, explaining: “My dad used to race in the 1970s and was also a Dunlop test rider. I grew up around the Dunlop team and it’s appropriate that my best results have been achieved on their tyres. In road racing, the speed, precision and variable conditions mean I need to put faith in products you can trust at the limit. That’s why I’m proud to work with Dunlop.”
Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, said: “Peter has enjoyed success on a range of different bike models and that vast experience is valuable to Dunlop when developing tyres for racing, track day and for road-going hypersport bikes. We have exciting plans to develop engaging social media content together. This will bring racing fans even closer to the action.”
For more Dunlop Tyre news check out our dedicated page Dunlop Tyres
Hagerty is best known as a classic vehicle insurer, but with a 600,000-member strong Drivers Club, a magazine with 1.9m readers, more than 1m monthly unique users visiting its Media site and 1.4m subscribers on YouTube, it is one of the world’s largest automotive lifestyle brands.
2021 has seen increased investment across all aspects of the Hagerty business, from content and events and data to client services, as Hagerty strengthens its global offering to the motoring enthusiast.
The latest announcement from Hagerty UK is a partnership with Maria Costello, the renowned motorcycle racer, and the only female rider from the sport to be awarded an MBE. The partnership will see Hagerty branding on Maria’s LCR Kawasaki F2 sidecar and Kawasaki ER6 Supertwin racing motorcycles throughout the 2021/22 season, which includes an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Maria recently announced Vicky Cooke as her teammate in an all-female sidecar team for the 2021 racing season and beyond.
In addition, Maria will produce exciting content with the Hagerty media team, attend selected automotive events, and will take part in Hagerty’s successful online panel and seminar discussions.
A place in motorcycle racing history was secured when Maria was the first woman solo racer in the history of the Isle of Man motorcycle races to stand on the podium after finishing in third place at the 2005 Manx Grand Prix (ultra-lightweight category). Her legendary status on the island was maintained with a third-place finish in the 2016 Isle of Man Senior Classic TT, standing on the podium alongside race winner, and personal hero, John McGuinness – a 23 times TT winner. Maria has also secured a 12th place finish in the 2016 Isle of Man Lightweight TT and made history by being the first woman to race both a sidecar and a solo motorcycle at the 2019 TT.
Maria formerly held the female lap record at all three international road races, the Isle of Man TT, the Northwest 200 and the Ulster Grand Prix and remains the only woman to have held lap records at all three events.
Throughout her racing career, Maria has shown remarkable resilience and determination in the male dominated world of motorcycle racing, overcoming astonishing injuries – including 24 broken bones – to gain multiple podium finishes in real, public road racing.
Maria is also a previous Guinness World Record holder for being the fastest woman to lap the Isle of Man TT course at an average speed of 114.73mph, was voted BBC Northampton Sports Personality of the Year, became an animated character in a PlayStation game, was appointed as a stunt double for Reese Witherspoon and is a published author. In 2013 she founded ‘Woman on a Motorcycle’ – a community space where like-minded ladies can share experiences and ideas. Her pioneering women-only trackdays have also gone from strength to strength.
In 2018 Maria was made President of the TT Riders Association, the first woman to be inducted into this position in the charity’s 67-year history and is also an Ambassador for ex-F1 driver Susie Wolff’s ‘Dare to Be Different’ campaign to drive female talent. Maria also visits schools and communities to encourage young people to take part in sport.
Speaking of the partnership Lee Mathewson, Managing Director for Hagerty UK, said “Maria has a long history of challenging archetypes which is hugely inspiring. Hagerty wants to save the art of driving and riding and to keep the global automotive lifestyle alive for generations to come. To do that we need to celebrate those who are leaders in the field, allowing newcomers to feel inspired to join us. Maria fits perfectly with the ethos of Hagerty, and we are delighted to welcome her as a partner and to support her 2021 racing season.”
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With the season opener of MotoAmerica beginning in Road Atlanta April 30, Aprilia, with the recently homologated RS 660, will arrive to the series with over 10 riders registered across the national Twins Cup championship to compete. The middleweight twin-cylinder class with 4-stroke models ranging 600-800cc, continues to be one of the most exciting series, attracting a growing grid of riders across manufacturers.
“With over 28 riders entered for this weekend’s Twins Cup race, it’s exciting to see that the new Aprilia 660 will take to the track with 8 competitors for the new machines’ debut in MotoAmerica,” explains Chuck Aksland, Partner in MotoAmerica, “We’ve followed the progress of the 660 since it was announced and our staff worked hand in hand with Aprilia to ensure that it could compete this season. Not many people have seen the bike on-track and the anticipation certainly brings another level of excitement to the weekend. We truly welcome Aprilia into our paddock and look forward to working with them for seasons to come.”
“We are pleased to see the excitement around this new model, and interest to be a part of Aprilia’s history on the track,” says Mario Di Maria, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas, “The RS 660 is a new chapter for Aprilia and our racing history, which we are eager to follow and support as it competes in the US.”
Aprilia Racing is the most advanced technological expression of the Piaggio Group. With 294 Grand Prix races won in Road Racing World Championship, Aprilia holds the record for the most wins of any European manufacturer in the history of maximum motorcycle competition. These are joined by an impressive 54 world titles: 38 in Road Racing World Championship (20 in 125 and 18 in 250), 7 in Superbike (Rider and Manufacturer double win in 2010, 2012 and 2014, manufacturers in 2013) and 9 in Off Road disciplines (7 in Supermoto and 2 in Trial).
From its inception, Aprilia Racing has represented an extraordinary forge for new talent. Astride the bikes from Noale, almost all the riders who have made history in motorcycle racing in recent decades have made their début, raced and won. These include Max Biaggi, Loris Capirossi, Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, Casey Stoner, as well as Manuel Poggiali, Marco Simoncelli, Alvaro Bautista.
The twin-cylinder 659cc creates a new and exciting opportunity for riders to compete on an Aprilia, consistently praised for its chassis and engine capabilities over its history.
Among the teams competing in MotoAmerica is Robem Engineering, which has competed in the Twins Cup championship since 2018, is one example of teams which has made the switch to Aprilia RS 660’s for this year. With riders Kaleb DeKeyrel (23 years old, finished 2nd in Twins Cup 2020), Hayden Schultz (23 years old, finished 3rd in Twins Cup 2020), and Toby Khamsouk (18 years old, finished 5th in Twins Cup 2020), riding for Robem, Team Owner, Matthew Spicer explains their decision, “When we saw Aprilia launch their new middleweight, I knew there could be some unique opportunities with the machine, which already makes good power. Knowing the history of the brand, we were happy to confirm expectations of a promising chassis and general geometry. It’s a gamble to switch to a bike that has not yet been raced competitively, but we’re optimistic the RS 660 will quickly evolve to be a top challenger in the championship.”
Internationally, Aprilia Racing has launched a spec-race series in Italy, aimed to grow young riders into champions, called the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo. As a spec machine with racing in mind, the model has been optimized to deliver 105hp, and trim away weight to 337 pounds with bodywork, forged wheels and race-derived components. The series will begin in May at the Misano circuit and will have a field of riders starting from 15 years old. Similar to that of the MotoAmerica Twins cup, the class is attractive to younger riders, and budget conscious race teams.
For more Aprilia news check out our dedicated page Aprilia News
The unveiling of the new Triumph Street Triple 765 RS for the 2021 Quattro Group British Supersport season marks an important step in Triumph’s future racing ambitions. In partnership with PTR, racing as Dynavolt Triumph, the aim is to demonstrate the performance credentials of the 765 triple engine and Street Triple RS chassis in the most demanding environment of top-level competition.
Dynavolt Triumph, managed by Simon Buckmaster’s PTR team, is the ideal partnership for Triumph, with proven capability in Supersport race preparation, trackside operations and the ability to co-ordinate with Triumph’s in-house engineering department.
Former WSS British rider Kyle Smith and former British MotoStar champion, Brandon Paasch are the two factory riders who will wear the Dynavolt Triumph team colours in this historical return to official racing for Triumph Motorcycles.
Brandon Paasch
The basis of the Dynavolt Triumph 765 is the Street Triple RS, a bike that has had significant global sales success and which is appreciated for it’s class leading handling and exhilarating, torque rich engine. Following discussion with MSVR and Dorna WorldSBK Organisation (DWO), Triumph are committed to helping establish a new Supersport formula allowing a wider range of engine formats to compete on level terms, thereby offering great potential for exciting racing which can feedback into the development of bikes that people can see in their local showroom.
Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer explained: “We were offered the opportunity of testing the formula for expanding the Championship and see this year very much as a year for a proving ground for us to make sure we have a competitive bike. The ambition is to go beyond this and next year go into World Supersport, part of a longer term racing strategy and this is a key part in terms of developing a more road based racing class; so building something that you can actually go into the showroom, buy and ride and then convert into a race bike. I think, for a manufacturer like Triumph, that’s quite important.” Steve Sargent, about the competitiveness of the Street Triple RS, also added “We wouldn’t go into this project if we didn’t think that this is a bike that could genuinely compete. The Street Triple is a naked sports bike but it’s derived from the Daytona so we think, in terms of geometry, this is a really good starting point for a race bike. I think, as a starting package, you’ve got a chassis that really works and engine wise, we’ve got the 765 Triple. It’s an engine that we’ve been using in Moto2 for the last couple of seasons and I think the response we have had and the performance we’ve had will tell you that the engine, as a package, is something that is going to compete. Combining the two things together, the engine and the chassis, I think we’ve got a really good starting point”.
Regarding the expectation for the 2021 season, Steve concluded “Myself and Simon (Buckmaster) have talked about expectations and obviously neither of us are in this to do anything other than be at the sharp end. I know Simon is very much focused that way and I believe that we have a package that can deliver that; I believe that we have two riders who can deliver that and from the Triumph side, we want to demonstrate what a Triumph can do on the racetrack”
Simon Buckmaster, Dynavolt Triumph’s Team Principal also commented “I have to say, on behalf of PTR and Dynavolt and Triumph, I am really very proud of this machine and I really cannot wait to get started.I feel confident and slightly nervous; it’s a brand new project but we have to aim at challenging to win. That has to be our goal for the season.”
Brandon Paasch, Dynavolt Triumph Factory Rider #96: “Visiting the Triumph factory was an awesome experience, it’s amazing to see how much time and effort they put into every detail. That’s something that gives a rider an extra bit of confidence. It was also great to finally get to meet up and chat with the team and see the Dynavolt Triumph race bike! I’ve been thinking of this moment for months now, so to finally see everything coming together was so exciting! I’m fully focused on getting testing here pretty soon, and I can’t thank Triumph enough for all the hospitality and support! I hope everyone else is as excited about this opportunity as I am!
Kyle Smith, Dynavolt Triumph Factory Rider #11: “I am keen to get started in what will be a new challenge for me in a new championship with a new bike. When I got the call from Simon it was a no-brainer. I can’t wait to start testing at Silverstone to get our base set-up. I have no doubt the new Triumph will be a good bike and having worked with the PTR crew in the past, I am confident we can be competitive”
The Dynavolt Triumph Street Triple 765 RS is scheduled to make its debut on track during the first official BSB Test, at Silverstone, 28 April 2021.
Motorcycle Communications Technology Company Returns As Official Partner Of Premier Road Racing Series
MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Cardo Systems will again be an official partner for the 2021 MotoAmerica Championship. Cardo will continue to showcase its advanced PACKTALK lineup, which features industry leading connectivity, to road racing fans via the MotoAmerica Series.
Cardo Systems specializes in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art communication and entertainment systems for motorcyclists. Since its inception in 2004, Cardo has pioneered the vast majority of innovations for Bluetooth motorcycle communication systems – having created the first rider-to-rider product and innovating connectivity with the introduction of its Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC).
“Last year we worked with Cardo Systems for the first time, and it was great for both of us,” said MotoAmerica Senior Sponsorship Manager Lance Bryson. “We used the Cardo’s systems for several features on race broadcasts and MotoAmerica Live+ programming where we were able to really show how well the system works with riders talking to each other while riding around the track. The 2021 season is going to be a good one and we’re happy that Cardo is along for the ride with us.”
“We’re excited to be returning for another year with MotoAmerica,” said Dan Emodi, Cardo Systems’ Chief Marketing Officer. “The series provides an incredible platform to not only showcase our product’s capabilities, but to reach and engage passionate motorcyclists who are always looking for the latest and greatest motorcycle accessories.”
As the category leader, Cardo offers a wide range of products designed for multiple use cases. Cardo’s FREECOM line offers three variations of Bluetooth communication systems, while the PACKTALK line utilizes the “always-on” mesh connectivity via Cardo’s proprietary DMC. For more information, visit www.cardosystems.com.
2021 MotoAmerica Series Schedule
April 30-May 2 Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Braselton, Georgia
May 21-23 Virginia International Raceway Danville, Virginia
June 11-13 Road America Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
June 25-27 Ridge Motorsports Park Shelton, Washington
July 9-11 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Monterey, California
July 30-August 1 Brainerd International Raceway Brainerd, Minnesota
August 13-15 Pitt Race Wampum, Pennsylvania
September 10-12 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, New Jersey
September 17-19 Barber Motorsports Park Birmingham, Alabama
For more news checkout our dedicated MotoAmerica News page MotoAmerica News
Kawasaki Motors UK is pleased to announce that the Kawasaki Z900 supernaked machine is eligible for the Moto46 Streetbike Cup, a brand-new support class in the 2021 No Limits Racing Series.
The Moto46 Streetbike Cup, which kicks off at Donington Park on 17/18 April, provides riders with an entry-level racing platform from which to hone and develop their talent – something that is in keeping with Kawasaki’s long-established ethos of supporting and encouraging grass roots racing.
The Kawasaki Z900, with its aggressive Sugomi styling, represents the ideal balance between the direct and emotionally charged experience of riding a class-defining Z family naked bike and the refinement and confidence that a carefully selected suite of electronic rider aids proves. The popular machine has previous race pedigree in the form of the European Z900 Cup, a series that ran alongside the FIM CEV Repsol championship in Spain and Portugal.
Riders choosing to contest the Moto46 Streetbike Cup aboard the Kawasaki Z900 can take advantage of the full Z900 protection kit created specifically for the Euro series by market-leading motorcycle protection provider and No Limits partner, GB Racing. Competitors can also call on the services of Kawasaki’s Team Green Technical Partner, MSS Performance, who supply racing parts and technical support for Kawasaki Racing riders at all levels of competition.
The Moto46 Streetbike Cup will run alongside the eight-round No Limits Racing National Endurance Championship, which begins on 17/18 April at Donington Park and concludes in October at Brands Hatch, visiting Oulton Park, Cadwell Park, Croft and Anglesey along the way (all dates subject to change). For more information visit www.nolimitsracing.co.uk
Craig Watson, Kawasaki Motors UK Sales and Marketing Manager:
“Kawasaki has a long history of supporting rider development from an early stage, so we’re really pleased that the Z900 is eligible for this new grass roots racing opportunity. We want to encourage riders to get into the sport and should you be sat there thinking “this is for me!” Get in touch with your local Kawasaki dealer as we are setting up a Z900 race support price for eligible racers!
I will certainly be keeping a close eye on the Streetbike Cup and will have some more exciting news about our involvement in the coming weeks.”
With the prospect of the WorldSBK racing season starting soon, Kawasaki has just unveiled three fast moving items from its upcoming 2021 KRT clothing range.
Seen for the first time at the official launch of the Kawasaki Racing Team for the 2021 season, riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes gave the new clothing items their public debut. Styled in Italy, the new KRT T-Shirt and Sweatshirt display the traditional Kawasaki racing green and black colourway with the addition of red for 2021 reflecting the livery of the new 2021 Ninja factory race machine.
Joined as part of the first release of items in the new KRT apparel range by a cap, all items feature the Monster Energy emblem as well as other sponsor logos as high quality 3D badges and not printed items, further adding to the quality look and feel of the garments.
Officially endorsed by the Kawasaki factory in Japan and the Kawasaki Racing Team, the sweatshirt, t-shirt and cap are now available in Kawasaki dealerships and via official on-line stores selling alongside existing KRT apparel items.
Commenting on the new items, KRT Team Manager, Guim Roda said “We regard every season as a fresh start and a new focus. For 2021 we have a new bike, a new colour scheme and now, new clothing. If you want to wear exactly the same style of shirt or cap as Jonathan or Alex, then visit your Kawasaki dealer and join KRT for another exciting racing season.”
One of Motul’s longest-standing and most valued OEM partners is Honda, and the two companies have developed and enjoyed over many decades a dedicated technical collaboration and proud support of Honda’s HRC factory racing teams in many different motorsport arenas. At the start of 2020 Honda returned to the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK) as a full factory squad.
Now, for the 2021 season, Team HRC and its two riders, Alvaro Bautista and Leon Haslam, will benefit further from Motul’s support as Official Lubricant Partner. Having made great steps forward with every race in 2020, there is only one aim for this season: the top!
A partnership with strength in depth
The trust and deeply cooperative working relationship that has developed over the years has seen Motul contribute to the performance, reliability and efficiency of HRC’s competition models over all terrains including circuits, off-road and desert. The strength of this partnership has resulted in multiple victories in many different championships, most notably three wins for HRC at the Dakar Rally – the first being in 1989 and the most recent being this year, 2021. It has also led to several championship titles with Team HRC in MXGP including 2019 and 2020 in the hands of their super dominant star rider Tim Gajser.
Smoothing the way with Motul
Together with Motul, Team HRC has been continuing development of the CBR1000RR-RR FIREBLADE, with continual feedback to engineers in Japan. Among Motul’s international R & D centers is one in Japan whose engineers collaborate with HRC’s engine development department on a range of different projects including the development of high-tech synthetic lubricants. Principal among these is the tailor-made Motul 300V Factory Line Racing Kit Oil 2376H 0W-30 fully synthetic engine oil which will be used alongside the Motocool Factory Line and MC CARE range of products.
The viscosity grade 0W-30, 100% synthetic lubricant yields a low traction coefficient thanks to the EsterCore technology, generating a friction reduction and therefore providing a significant gain in engine power.
Nicolas Zaugg, Motul Chief Value Officer: “We are delighted to be extending our great working relationship with Honda and HRC to WorldSBK. The collaborative vision and technological partnership we have developed together is the perfect example of Motul’s living laboratory philosophy …developing and testing experimental products in a racing application before offering them for sale to a wider customer base. It’s a win-win deal as far as we are concerned.”
Tetsuhiro Kuwata, HRC Director – General Manager Race Operations Management Division: “We are pleased to announce Motul as Official Sponsor of our factory Team HRC in the highly competitive 2021 FIM Motul Superbike World Championship, thereby extending the relationship between our brands and further strengthening what is a very important project for us, with our CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE SP. Honda and Motul each boast a long and successful history in high level motorsport competition around the world, both brands being driven by the constant pursuit of victory and by the strong belief that the racing arena is the ideal setting in which to grow our human capital and develop our know-how and technology. In doing so, we offer our customers the best possible products, while bringing joy and excitement to our fans around the world. We are living in a time of great challenges, but we are ready to fight to achieve our mutual goals, which we will pursue with determination, positivity, and confidence in the future.”
For more Motul UK news check out our dedicated page Motul UK news
Dunlop is pleased to announce a three-year contract extension with Dorna Sports that will see the FIM Moto2™ and Moto3™ World Championships continue racing on Dunlop tyres until at least the end of the 2023 season. Dunlop has been a long-standing partner of the MotoGP™ paddock since the World Championship’s inception in 1949.
As the most successful tyre company in the history of the 250cc and 125cc categories, having won 17 titles in 250cc, Dunlop became the exclusive tyre supplier of Moto2™ and Moto3™ when the new classes were founded to replace the 250cc and 125cc classes. Since then, Dunlop has supplied every bike in every season of the intermediate and lightweight classes.
Dunlop will continue to supply both Moto2™ and Moto3™ for at least another three years. Dunlop’s top technology goes into creating the ultimate race tyres designed specifically for the unique Moto2™ and Moto3™ bikes, which have seen a notable lap time improvement through tyre developments and adaptation to new technical innovations. These tyres are raced in all corners of the world through an intense schedule that visits some of the most exciting race tracks on the planet.
The race tyres used by Moto2™ and Moto3™ riders are heavily linked to Dunlop tyres that bikers around the world can fit to their own machines. Dunlop products are all developed and manufactured by the same team as the Moto2™ and Moto3™ race tyres. This true ‘race to road’ link gives riders a wide choice of tyres to suit their style and usage – all with technology derived from the top levels of motorsport. True examples of this are the race-derived KR and D213 GP PRO designs, as well as track day tyres such as GP Racer D212 and more road-orientated hypersport designs like SportSmart Mk3 and TT.
Dunlop also supports the star riders of tomorrow, supplying tyres to championships such as the Red Bull MotoGP™ Rookies Cup, Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, Honda British Talent Cup and Northern Talent Cup, all as part of the Road to MotoGP initiative.
Ben Hoge, General Manager Motorcycle Europe, Goodyear: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Dorna Sports to remain the exclusive tyre supplier to the Moto2™ and Moto3™ World Championships for at least another three years. Both series are integral to Dunlop Motorsport’s activities and allow us to develop technology for our expanding range of road and track tyres. Dorna Sports has an excellent platform for finding and supporting the star riders of tomorrow and we’re excited to remain a part of it.”
Pau Serracanta, Managing Director, Dorna Sports: “We are delighted to announce that Dunlop will remain the tyre supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 classes, extending our partnership until 2023. Dunlop have been a cornerstone of the incredible success of Moto2 and Moto3 since each began, and the results speak for themselves as we continue to see spectacular racing every weekend. I look forward to more history being made together over at least the next three years.”
It’s twenty-five years since the Ducati 916 made its first appearance. A bike destined to transform the world of motorcycle design and to make fans all over the world fall in love. The 916 was uniquely stylish, elegant, light and technologically innovative: a true pillar of Made in Italy motorcycles.
To celebrate this key anniversary, Ducati will present the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916. This limited edition will consist of only 500 individually numbered bikes and will sport an original livery and exclusive racing components. The motorcycle will be presented on 12 July at Pebble Beach, California, at 8 p.m. (PDT).
The Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916 will be unveiled in the presence of ‘King’ Carl Fogarty, four-times winner of the World Superbike Championship with Ducati in the 1990s.
During the World SBK race at Laguna Seca, to be held on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July, the Aruba.it Racing-Ducati team will pay a further tribute to the 916 when Alvaro Bautista and Chaz Davies’ bikes take to the track with a special livery inspired by the graphics of the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916.
Mitsuo Ito, the first and only Japanese rider to win at the Isle of Man TT, has passed away at the age of 82.
Born on 1 January, 1937, Ito san was a lifelong Suzuki employee and made his Grand Prix debut in 1961. Two years later he won the Ultra-Lightweight TT on his Suzuki RK67, and he remains the only Japanese rider to win around the famous 37.73-mile course. In 2008 he returned to the Isle of Man with Suzuki GB to celebrate his achievements.
Ito’s TT win also helped establish Suzuki as a global brand, taking the Japanese firm from domestic manufacturer to worldwide motorcycling powerhouse. It also paved the way for a golden era of Suzuki successes in Grand Prix racing.
During his own racing career he finished fifth in the 50cc world championship four times in consecutive years, between 1962 and 1965. His final win, fittingly, came at the Japanese Grand Prix in 1967.
Following his retirement from competition he continued to work on Suzuki’s racing activities – including a brief foray in car racing – working with both the machines and personnel, including the 1993 world champion Kevin Schwantz.
After his experiences at the Isle of Man TT, he also helped design Suzuki’s famous Ryuyo test track, where all new Suzuki machines are still tested and developed today.
He was inducted into the Motorcycle Federation of Japan (MFJ) Motorcycle Sport Hall of Fame last December for his achievement at the 1963 Isle of Man TT.
Suzuki GB director, Paul de Lusignan commented, “It was an absolute pleasure to know and spend time with Ito san. He had time for everybody, and made an effort to get to know and speak with dealers and staff alike during his visits to Suzuki GB and on our trip to the Isle of Man together in 2008. He was also very warm and welcoming when I had the pleasure of visiting his home in Japan. He was very highly thought of by everyone at Suzuki, and also members of the media throughout the years who had the good fortune to meet and work with him. All of our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time.”
Mitsuo Ito’s funeral will take place on Saturday in Hamamatsu, Japan.
Maxxis is celebrating the launch of its all-new Maxxcross MX-ST, by offering customers who purchase a pair of its revolutionary new motocross tyres the chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Italian motocross Grand Prix at Imola on August 18.
To enter the prize draw customers simply need to purchase one pair of tyres. They will then be invited to complete an entry form in-store, or alternatively enter online at www.mx-st.com.
Developed by Maxxis in partnership with seven-time AMA Supercross champion Jeremy McGrath, the new MX-ST uses a unique tread block design for improved grip and cornering performance, while also extending tyre life. The MX-ST’s lightweight, pliable carcass design also delivers greater stability, comfort, and improves feel, impact absorption, and confidence over jumps. The tyre has already proven its pedigree in the EMX250 championship, with Alberto Forato winning both motos and taking the overall victory onboard his Maxxis-shod Husqvarna at both Matterley Basin and Trentino.
Currently available for 21” and 19” rims, more sizes will be available in the summer, making the MX-ST available for youth and junior championships also.
Maxxis International UK’s Managing Director, Derek McMartin, said,“Since the tyre has been available to teams in the MXGP and EMX championships we’ve had nothing but positive feedback from riders and mechanics. The new MX-ST was designed and developed with one goal in mind, which was to provide a higher level of performance in all areas, than currently available from our rivals. This is a tyre for both the professional racer and clubman rider, and we’re delighted to celebrate it’s availability and give customers the chance to visit the Italian Grand Prix as our special guests, with paddock and hospitality access.”
For 2019 Maxxis is the title sponsor and an official tyre supplier of both MXGP and the British Motocross Championship, and is currently offering a win bonus in the domestic series that can see riders on the MX-ST win £150 per round.
For more information on the MX-ST click here. For details on the Maxxis win bonus scheme, click here.
West Midlands based SevenSeven2 MX, run by experienced motocross racer and trainer, Craig Chamberlain have partnered with Kawasaki UK to operate a brand new motocross experience for customers of all ages and abilities.
The new experience will offer both existing and brand new riders alike the chance to sharpen their skills in a controlled environment.
In addition, the company will also provide a race experience, where customers of a certain ability will be offered the chance to be taken on a complete journey from learning to ride off-road through to competing in their first race with guidance, support and equipment being taken care of by SevenSeven2 MX.
SevenSeven2 will be hosting their Kawasaki motocross experience events at Grafton Manor, Weatheroak MX, Coppull Motocross Track and Coney Green Farm, starting from just £150 (prices dependant on age and experience – please contact SevenSeven2 for further details). Children as young as 7 years of age will be eligible to ride.
Kick starting from July 2019 onwards, the latest and greatest green machines will be available to ride including the Kawasaki KX65, KX85SW, KX85BW, KX250 and KX450.
Craig Chamberlain, owner of SevenSeven2 MX is delighted to be officially representing Kawasaki while passing on the wealth of off-road riding knowledge his team have to offer, saying, “Sevenseven2 are extremely proud to be given this opportunity to work alongside a brand like Kawasaki. We want to give everyone the opportunity to improve their skills and in some cases experience off-road riding for the very first time. We will also offer opportunities to go through the complete cycle of learning to ride for the first time and take you as far as your first race event. Our coaches include a former MXGP rider, World Enduro rider and IMBA European rider so with our knowledge base we aim to give you an experience you will remember for ever!”
Senior Racing and Marketing Coordinator, Ross Burridge said, “We have known Craig for a number of years through his work with the AMCA, so when Craig approached us to discuss the possibility of working together on a new motocross experience for the Midlands and north of England, we jumped at the chance. Craig has a lot of experience both in motocross generally but also in the off-road training environment. We believe he runs the perfect company to help give customers, both experienced and new to the sport, a great opportunity to connect with the Kawasaki brand in both a fun and structured environment.”
Three-times World Champion, Freddie Spencer, is set to headline at the West Country’s biggest motorcycle race meeting, the Castle Combe Grand National, which takes place at the Wiltshire track on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September 2018.
Regaled as one of the greatest ever Grand Prix riders, ‘Fast Freddie’ returns to Castle Combe by popular demand having visited for a first time earlier this year, and the American will lead the ‘Year of the Legends’ celebrations which will also include former 500cc Grand Prix racer and British Champion Steve Parrish amongst a host of other stars set to be added.
In addition, there is a packed programme of racing organised by NG Road Racing Club, and featuring a number of major championships over the weekend. With some of the best club race action in the country which always leads to packed grids, Race Director Steve Bostock and his team will once again deliver an end of summer feast which last year included 20 fast and furious races over the weekend.
In addition, and having not featured over the past couple of seasons, 2018 sees a welcome return of the ACU/FSRA British F2 Sidecar Championship to Castle Combe meaning the cream of British crews will be in action. Pete Founds and Jevan Walmsley took this year’s crown in the Super F2 class whilst combining their duties at British Championship level whilst up against the likes of TT winner Conrad Harrison and British F1 front-runner Sean Hegarty.
The established mix of modern and classic racing combined with the ever-popular rider parades and off-track attractions means it’s a weekend in Wiltshire not to be missed already!
Tom Davis, Marketing and Sales Manager: “2017 will be a hard act to follow as we had one of our biggest crowds to date. The combination of a year’s hard work putting together the Mike Hailwood tribute and Guy Martin riding the Honda-6 will always take some beating! For 2018 we are celebrating all that is good in motorcycle racing with our Year of the Legends theme. This will see many of the heroes and stars from the racing great and good rejoice at Castle Combe in September.”
Graham Marshallsay, Managing Director: “We are delighted to once again be working with NG Road Racing and due to moving the date to September we are extremely pleased to be hosting the ACU/FSRA British F2 Sidecar Championship again. The event seems to go from strength to strength and to be able to already announce the attendance of “Fast Freddie” Spencer and the legendary Steve Parrish proves the pull Castle Combe Circuit has in the motorcycle world.”
Steve Parrish, ex 500cc Grand Prix rider: “I can lay claim to a podium finish albeit on four wheels when I last raced at Castle Combe, but I’ve ridden round there on bikes on many occasions. It’s an interesting track full of character and they are fantastic people who run it. The great thing about the event is that the race fans have chance to chat and mingle with the stars as there’s so much time to interact which isn’t always the case these days. I’m really looking forward to it and not only meeting the fans but having a ride round on something too!”
Further exciting news will be announced in due course and for further information, please contact Tom Davis at the Circuit on 01249 782417 or email at Tom@castlecombecircuit.co.uk.
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