Oli Bayliss will race a Cube Performance Centre prepared Yamaha YZF-R6 in 2019 as the 15-year-old makes his debut in the Australian Supersport Championship. He threw a leg over his newly prepared YZF-R6 race machines for the first time last week at Morgan Park.
Oli Bayliss
Motorcycling Australia made an amendment to the rules in late 2018 to allow racers under the age of 16, who demonstrate the ability to race at a high standard safely, to race in the larger capacity class. This has allowed Oli, who was hampered by his size in the smaller Supersport 300 class, to step up to 600 Supersport and further hone his racing skills in a class more suitable to his frame.
Oli Bayliss on the Cube Racing Yamaha YZF-R6
I asked him a few questions about his first experience with the bigger machine and the year ahead.
Oli Bayliss
I know you are used to big hits of power Oli, from your time on 450 motocross bikes on the dirt and also on oil tracks, and also used to very litte power from the 300s you have been racing for the last couple of seasons, so what stands out the most in regards to the Supersport machine now you have had some time to get your head around it? It should certainly suit your physical size a lot better.
Oli – “The weight, power, brakes, and having to manhandle the bike compared to the 300.”
Cube Racing Yamaha YZF-R6
Glen Richards prepped your bikes and is going to be in your corner for season 2019. Apart from the pommy accent he has picked up after all those years in the UK, how is that working out?
Oli – “Glen is great, I’ve spent a few days in and out of the track and he’s great, and fast.”
Oli Bayliss will work with Glen Richards for ASBK season 2019
You fully recovered and back up to strength after breaking your arm on the mountain bike late last year? You stronger than dad on the bicycle?
“I still have a bit until I’m up to speed with dad on the uphill, but I definitely have him covered on the downhill, jumps and style especially!”
Oli Bayliss will work with Glen Richards for ASBK season 2019
What are your expectations for this coming season? With the likes of Cru Halliday stepped back up to Superbike, and Max Croker heading to Superbike also, who do you see as likely your main opposition?
“Everyone, I could name heaps, I just want to do one thing, and that is win.”
That last statement certainly confirms he is a chip off the old block.
Team Owner, Ben Henry
“Oli has proven that he has the skill to race, and race well, so I’m really glad to see Motorcycling Australia recognise and address the issue facing young racers like Oli, where their age could slow their progression in the sport. I’m excited to see how competitive he can become throughout the season as he learns and adapts to the bigger, more complex style of racing that comes with stepping up in class, and I’m confident that he’ll do well.”
The first official test for the 2019 season takes place 2-3 February in Phillip Island where Oli and the Cube Racing team get a chance to shake down the new bike before the first round, alongside the first round of the World Superbike Championship (WSBK).
Initial artists impression of the livery the 2019 Cube Racing R6 will be campaigned by Oli Byaliss in ASBK – Underground Designs
2019 ASBK Calendar
Official ASBK Test – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC February 2 – 3
Round 1- WSBK – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC February 21 – 24
Round 2- Wakefield Park Raceway – Goulburn NSW March 22 – 24
Round 3- The Bend Motorsport Park – Tailem Bend, SA April 26 – 28
Round 4- Morgan Park Raceway – Warwick, QLD July 5 – 7
Round 5- Winton Motor Raceway – Benalla, VIC September 6 – 8
Round 6- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC October 4 – 6
Round 7- Sydney Motorsport Park – Eastern Creek, NSW November 1 – 3
Australian records top five performance in main event three.
Image: Supplied.
Chad Reed’s campaign at Anaheim 2’s third round of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship was hampered by a technical issue that denied him of starting the second main event of the Triple Crown format.
The JGRMX Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing contender wound up 10th in the opening encounter, however the threads of an unobtainable clutch cover malfunctioned, causing oil to leak from his RM-Z450 on the starting line for race two
The problem was repaired, allowing the Australian to salvage what he could in the final of three mains, putting in a spirited performance to finish fifth for 13th overall.
“It was a good night of racing,” Reed admitted. “I felt race ready even though my qualifying times were not where I would have liked them to be – I was a little too kind about making my way forward in the first main. Unfortunately, we had a technical issue in the second race.
“In race three I felt like I needed to pull one of my customary Suzuki starts out of the old bag. From there I really felt like I rode my best all weekend. Moving forward I want to focus on believing in myself more and getting great starts more often.”
The two-time AMA Supercross champion now sits 13th in the standings as the series heads to Oakland this weekend for round three. Saturday’s overall win was credited to Cooper Webb (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) – the first of his career – while Ken Roczen (Honda HRC) still leads the points classification.
Moto News Wrap for January 22, 2019 by Darren Smart
Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Moto News Latest
Congrats to Toby – KTM 1-2-3 at Dakar
KTM sweeps Anaheim
French Riders win Belfast Arenacross
Toni Bou wins Budapest X-Trial Round
KTM’s Taylor Robert wins Primm WORCS
Norton third at AMA Hare Scrambles
Australian Junior Solo Speedway Championships
Old Bar Twilight Dirt Track
Willowbank successfully hosts Junior Solo Titles
Woffinden wins Rob Woffinden Solo Classic
Yamaha backs AORC for 14th Year
Kirkness and Whale headline Newcastle Supertrack
Congrats to Toby – KTM 1-2-3 at Dakar
The Toby Price legendary status continues to grow after winning the 2019 Dakar Rally in the most trying of circumstances you would be hard pushed to find any off-road enthusiast who doesn’t admire the skill and tenacity of this genuinely humble Aussie.
Toby Price with team-mate and runner-up, Matthias Walkner
Price went into Dakar 2019 under a cloud after breaking the scaphoid in his right wrist on the 12th of December and after getting it operated on by Dr. Mir in Barcelona the long-time KTM rider flew back to Australia to recuperate before the start of Dakar on January the 6th.
Once recuperated enough to start riding (well before doctor’s orders) Price got together with Stephen Gall and they went out to Queensland Moto Park, West of Brisbane to try out some wrist support via the CTi Custom Wrist Brace.
Toby Price during the rest day midway through Dakar 2019
Toby initially rode without any support before he tried some taping which apparently helped but the breakthrough came when Gall fitted the Carbon ‘All Sport Dynamic’ OH2 Wrist Brace which really helped his confidence and this is the brace that helped Toby though to the end of the world’s most gruelling off-road motorcycle race.
Gall, himself a tough competitor who shares the distinction of multiple Finke Desert Race wins with Price, said, “I’m so happy to able to help him win this huge race.”
Toby Price – Dakar 2019 – Job Done
The 2019 Dakar win adds to Price’s resume which includes his 2016 Dakar win, five AORC wins, two A4DE wins, six Finke Desert Race wins, five Hattah Desert Race wins, ISDE class wins, A Day in the Dirt Motocross Grand Prix win, Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge win, Rallye OiLibya du Maroc wins and the 2018 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship.
Toby Price
Coming into the final Stage 10, race leader Price was faced with a 359-kilometre trek, including a 112-kilometre special and 247-kilometre liaison around the city of Pisco and it couldn’t have gone better for Price who finished the stage in first place, two minutes and 21 seconds ahead of second place holder Jose Ignacio Cornejo Florimo (Monster Energy Honda Team 2019).
Overall, Price has finished a staggering nine minute and 13 seconds ahead of reigning title holder Matthias Walkner (Red Bull KTM Factory Team) while Sam Sunderland (Red Bull KTM Factory Team), clocking in 13 minutes and 34 seconds behind Price, rounded out the podium.
Toby Price
With a podium filled to the brim with KTM bikes, the Austrian brand can now comfortably brag that the last time a KTM bike did not win the Dakar Rally was back in 2000!
Toby Price
“It feels amazing to stand here knowing I have won the Dakar, I don’t think it has really sunk in yet. I thought at the beginning of the event I would be lucky to even make the rest day. My Red Bull KTM bike has been amazing, I want to say a big thank you to my mechanic for that. The whole crew here do an amazing job – without them I would be no one.”
The pain was clearly visible throughout Dakar 2019
Fellow Australians Ben Young and James Ferguson finished Stage 10 in 55th and 67th place respectively while ending the 2019 Dakar Rally in 51st and 67th overall – great effort boys!
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
KTM Sweeps Anaheim 2
Round three of the 2019 AMA Supercross Championship at Anaheim featured the first of the ‘Triple Crown’ formats and it was KTM riders Cooper Webb and Shane McElrath who came out on top in the 450SX and 250SX classes respectively.
450 Report
If you were telling anyone before the series kicked off that the first three 450SX round winners were going to be Justin Barcia, Blake Baggett and Cooper Webb you would have been scoffed at but the fact is that you would have been dead right and as arsy as they come.
2019 AMA Supercross – 450 Start
Cooper Webb got 10th place the week before at Glendale but his performance at Anaheim 2, in particular race one against Roczen backed with his second race win and a solid third in the final race for the overall has put the former 250SX champion on the map as a title contender.
Cody Webb
“Last weekend I was tenth and that wasn’t what I wanted, so I had some redemption this week. But to win is insane – to win two races and be on the podium in the last one is incredible! I really have got to give it up to the group at KTM, they took me under and they changed everything for me. It’s been a struggle the last two years, so those guys just constantly pushing me to get back to where I was and reminding me that I still got it. I can’t believe it and I’ll never forget this day. I hope to keep it going, this is an incredible feeling. Man, I’m speechless.”
Cody Webb
Right now Marvin Musquin is managing a knee injury and he admits that the triple crown format is not his strong point but the Frenchman managed three sold races for second overall.
Marvin Musquin
“It’s not always been my strongest point on the start but I’ve been very consistent today. This week I only rode a little bit on Monday. I stayed in California and we got a lot of rain, but obviously it helped on the knee. I tried to work on it the whole week and I felt good getting on the bike compared to last weekend, so it was important and that’s what I need – to feel good and not have any pain. It was great racing tonight, I didn’t win any motos but I got second overall, I was consistent and I was able to battle for the lead and for the podium.”
Eli Tomac had never finished outside of the top five in any of the nine Triple Crown main events he has been part of and at A2 he kept that streak alive by going 4-4-1 for third place overall.
Eli Tomac
“In the first two main events I didn’t do myself any favours off the start but I was happy that we were able to charge forward both times into fourth place. The third race was awesome because I was able to get out in clean air and just ride. The track tonight was technical and even sketchy in some parts, but I am happy to be leaving here healthy and only two points back in the championship.”
Eli Tomac
Ken Roczen
“Overall, it was a good night of racing. We showed a lot of speed and are happy with this Triple Crown race. We got off to a great start in the first race, getting the holeshot and leading the whole race until I made a mistake in the one of the last rhythm sections, which unfortunately cost me the win. We still came in second, which was great. I didn’t get the best start in the second race but weaseled my way through and felt like I was going really fast. I found myself in third and was catching the guys up front but I made a mistake and went down in the whoops and had about five guys go by me. I didn’t let that distract me, rode strong and worked my way back up to fifth. We were just trying to get through the third race, where I finished fourth and unfortunately, just missed the podium. It was a bummer not to be on the overall podium, but we still have the points lead and red plate so that’s awesome.”
Ken Roczen
Cole Seely
“Once again, there are a lot of positives to take away from tonight. My starts were much better in two out of the three races, and I was able to run more toward the front of the pack. Being up there and feeling the pace of the front group was huge. The Triple Crown format is definitely a challenge because the turnaround time is really short and you’re basically doing three sprint races, so you have to be on it. I’m getting back into the flow and am excited to go racing each weekend, so seventh is another step in the right direction.”
Cole Seely
Class rookie Aaron Plessinger suffered poor starts all night but he improved his position each event with 12-9-6 moto finishes for seventh outright to hold down ninth overall in the championship points.
Aaron Plessinger
“Anaheim 2 was a pretty good race for me. I kind of was struggling with bike setup all day and then after the last practice we made a shock change, and it was great. I got a few bad starts in the first two main events, which hurt my results, but I felt good all night. I rode what I thought was the best that I have ridden. I went 12, 9, 6, for seventh overall. So, I think I did pretty good for it only being my third 450 race. I’m really amped for Oakland next weekend. I’m going to go back and work on my starts, practice them all week and get it down pat so hopefully we can get up front and get a podium.”
Aaron Plessinger
As for Plessinger’s Yamaha team mate, Justin Barcia went 7-3 for the first two races but the A1 winner spewed over the bars in one of the rutted rhythm section and was taken to hospital with a bruised tail bone – Barcia is expected to be at the gate this weekend.
Joey Savatgy, who is known as a good starter, looked to use the Triple Crown format to his benefit to achieve the results he has been looking for and in the three main event format, Savatgy was able to surge out front in nearly all three races, which helped him score 8-13-8 results to capture eighth overall.
Joey Savatgy
“It has been a shaky past two weeks for me, so to bounce back from last weekend and land inside the top 10 tonight is something we’ll take. We set out to be consistent today and we did that for the most part, so overall I am happy with where we are. We will clean up a few things this week and come out swinging in Oakland.”
Like many, Jason Anderson suffered from poor starts but managed a pair of sixth place finishes in the opening two races but in the third race he tangled with Chad Reed early and was forced off the track leaving the defending champ to finish back in 17th for ninth on the night to now be 17 points back from championship leader Roczen.
Jason Anderson
“I was able to get a top-10 overall, it wasn’t a horrible weekend, but I’m going to keep pushing and I’ll try to be better next weekend.”
Jason Anderson
Chad Reed came home in 10th in the opening race but his bike had an issue on the start lije of race two leaving the Aussie as a spectator but Chad bounced back for a solid fifth in the final race of the night for 13th outright.
450SX Results
Cooper Webb 1 – 1 – 3
Marvin Musquin 3 – 2 – 2
Eli Tomac 4 – 4 – 1
Ken Roczen 2 – 5 – 4
Dean Wilson 9 – 8 – 7
Cole Seely 5 – 7 – 13
Aaron Plessinger 12 – 9 – 6
Joey Savatgy 8 – 13 – 8
Jason Anderson 6 – 6 – 17
Justin Barcia 7 – 3 – 22
Justin Hill 13 – 11 – 9
Vince Friese 11 – 12 – 10
Chad Reed 10 – 22 – 5
2019 Anaheim 2 – AMA SX Round 3 – Round Points Cooper Webb 26 Marvin Musquin 23 Eli Tomac 21
450SX Points Standings
Ken Roczen – 63
Eli Tomac – 61
Cooper Webb – 57
Marvin Musquin – 56
Justin Barcia – 56
Dean Wilson – 52
Jason Anderson – 46
Aaron Plessinger – 45
Blake Baggett – 45
Cole Seely – 44
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
250SX Report
Despite Adam Cianciarulo being the fastest man on the track and championship leader Colt Nicolls getting blazing starts, McElrath maintained a solid pace throughout the evening, placing on the podium in the first two mains before winning the final race of the night for the overall.
250 blasts off the line at Anaheim II
Shane McElrath
“We’ve been learning a lot throughout the season so far. I mean, we had a really good off-season but you can’t really do bike setup without going to the races and that’s my comfort – that’s really what we’ve been searching for. The last two weekends have been upsetting because of the way I’ve been riding but we’ve just kept pushing – perseverance produces hope, so this is good for us.”
Shane McElrath
The Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing pairing of Dylan Ferrandis and Colt Nichols weren’t too far apart all weekend and at the end of the three main events they were separated by just two points with Ferrandis coming home in second overall while Nicoll rounded out the podium and more importantly maintain his championship points lead, albeit only two points over McElrath.
Dylan Ferrandis
“The short amount of time between each main event made it physically demanding, but I felt good and strong all night. All the rain from the week, made for a really technical rhythm section, but the bike was awesome. My teammate and I were able to put the bike up front at every start. I’m a bit disappointed to finished second again, but me and my team are going to analyze our race and work on what we need for the win.”
Dylan Ferrandis
Colt Nichols
“The track was very difficult. It got really rutty and soft during the third main event, so made it very hard to continue to jump the rhythm sections and keep everything consistent. The bike was incredible, got off to three really great starts. I’m a little bummed with the way I rode in the last main event after getting the holeshot, but overall it was a good night. Still came out with a podium, can’t be mad at that. It was also pretty tough to bounce back in between each race, with there being a short time in between each one of the main events. Made it physically demanding, but happy with the way I rode. Just have to get a little bit better.”
Colt Nichols
Cianciarulo once again showed flashes of speed and brilliance as he was able to be a front runner in all three main event races but the Kawasaki rider crashed in the opening two races before being run down by McElrath in the final race to finish with 4-14-2 for fifth overall and he now sits fourth in the point’s standings.
Adam Cianciarulo
“Nights like tonight are frustrating as a racer because we did everything right, but ultimately some small mistakes cost us. We qualified fastest again and in the first race we got out to an early lead but unfortunately, I tucked the front end. In Main Event 2, I had a big get off which really hurt my overall score, but I was happy I was able to bounce back in the third race and come away with a second place. Overall, we are healthy and only eight points back in the championship. We’ve got work to do, but this Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team is coming for you Oakland.”
Adam Cianciarulo
Poor old Thomas Ravenhorst was leading the LCQ before dropping back to the final qualifying spot and was just two corners away from making it to the main event before sliding out in the right hand berm.
250SX West Results
Shane McElrath 3 – 2 – 1
Dylan Ferrandis 2 – 1 – 3
Colt Nichols 1 – 3 – 4
J. Hampshire 5 – 4 – 5
Adam Cianciarulo 4 – 14 – 2
Cameron McAdoo 9 – 5 – 6
Jacob Hayes 6 – 7 – 9
Michael Mosiman 10 – 6 – 7
Chris Blose 8 – 8 – 8
Mitchell Harrison 12 – 9 – 11
AMA SX Round 3 – 250 Western Round Points Shane McElrath 26 Dylan Ferrandis 23 Colt Nichols 21
250SX West Points Standings
Colt Nichols – 70
Shane McElrath – 68
Dylan Ferrandis – 63
Adam Cianciarulo – 62
J. Hampshire – 57
Jimmy Decotis – 44
Chris Blose – 44
Cameron McAdoo – 41
Michael Mosiman – 39
Jacob Hayes – 37
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
French Riders Win Belfast Arenacross
The opening round of the UK Arenacross Series was held in Belfast last weekend and it was the French rides Greg Aranda and Cedric Soubeyres who drew first blood in the 450 and 250 Main events respectively.
The Pro 450s was all about Aranda with the Team Green Kawasaki rider remained unbeaten all day, from free practice right through to the Main Event Super Final but he had to work for the win as Soubeyras tore off the start line, grabbing the holeshot and leading the race right up until two-thirds race distance.
Belfast Arenacross 2019 Podium
Back in fourth Aranda first picked off Adrien Escoffier and then Valentin Teillet before he closed on Soubeyras and then charged through to the front.
Behind him Soubeyras kept his cool to take second and with Teillet in third, placed two 250s on the podium while Brit Jack Brunell had a storming ride to finish fourth.
Northern Ireland’s Martin Barr crashed earlier in the evening and sadly, a broken hand ruled him out of continuing through to the final, he promised to be back at Birmingham and added; “Despite the injury, I really enjoyed the whole evening. The crowd were unbelievable and I’m now concentrating on getting fit in time for Birmingham.”
Pro Main Event Super Final
#20 Greg Aranda, Team Green Kawasaki
#1 Cedric Soubeyras, FRO Systems, Husqvarna
#373 Valentin Teillet, SR75 Suzuki
#10 Jack Brunell, Team Green Kawasaki
#6 Adrien Escoffier, Buildbase Honda
#4 Fabien Izoird, Shocktech Kawasaki
#64 Nique Thury, FRO Systems
#3 Charles Le Francois, SR75 Suzuki
#744 Diogo Graca, Castrol Power1 Suzuki
#17 Matt Bayliss, Wooldridge Demolition
Pro 450 Championship
#20 Greg Aranda, 90 points
#3 Charles Lefrancois, 58 points
#4 Fabien Izoird, 56 points
#64 Nique Thury, 49 points
#10 Jack Brunell, 45 points
#8 Hugo Basaula, 42 points
Pro Lites Overall
#1 Cedric Soubeyras
#737 Valentin Teillet
#6 Adrien Escoffier
#744 Diogo Graca
#259 Julien Lebeau
#1x Joe Clayton
Pro Lites Championship
#1 Cedric Soubeyras, 82 points
#6 Adrien Escoffier, 56 points
#259 Julien Lebeau, 54 points
#737 Valentin Teillet, 48 points
#1x Joe Clayton, 35 points
#744 Diogo Graca, 31 points
Arenacross now heads back to the mainland for the third and fourth round of the Tour at The Resorts World Arena, Birmingham on Friday the 1st and Saturday the 2nd of February 2019. Doors open at 6pm and the evening’s entertainment gets underway at 7.00pm. Tickets are available directly from the Arena Box Office on 028 9073 9074 or on the door.
Remaining Arenacross Tour dates
1st February – Resorts World Arena, Birmingham
2nd February – Resorts World Arena, Birmingham
15th February – The Fly DSA Arena, Sheffield
16th February – The Fly DSA Arena, Sheffield
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Toni Bou Wins Budapest X-Trial Round
The FIM X-Trial World Championship kicked off in Budapest last weekend and as one would expect Repsol Honda Team’s Toni Bou took the win from arch rival Adam Raga and Jeroni Fajardo.
Toni Bou – Budapest X-Trial 2019 – Round 1
Bou opened the season in the style with a marked difference by the end of the first round, collecting a single penalty compared to the six of Raga then in the semi-final, where only the top finisher from each group would make it through to the grand finale, Bou again proved unmatchable notching up two solitary marks.
Toni Bou – Budapest X-Trial 2019 – Round 1
The final showdown saw the champ face Raga, with the riders forced to take the same sections but in the reverse direction. Bou started the final losing ground to his opponent before some deft handling eventually moved the Spaniard up into first place and despite picking up a five in the penultimate hazard the defending champ secured the first victory of the 2019 FIM X-Trial championship.
Toni Bou – Budapest X-Trial 2019 – Round 1
Toni Bou
“I’m super happy to start off winning. It was amazing to get this victory after the rib injury, which I’m still not recovered from totally. We must continue working to improve because I believe that I am not yet where I could be. I trained a little this year and I think I’m not at my usual level. There is still quite a way to go and I want to get there as soon as possible. Yes, in 2018 we won, but I suffered a lot because of the injuries. That is why I want to thank Joaquim Terricabras and all his medical team for the help they have given me, especially for the recent treatment for the rib injury.”
Toni Bou – Budapest X-Trial 2019 – Round 1
Results X-Trial Budapest 2019
BOU Toni – 20
RAGA Adam – 15
FAJARDO Jeroni – 12
BUSTO Jaime – 9
BINCAZ Benoit – 6
CASALES Jorge – 4
DABILL James – 3
FUJINAMI Takahisa – 2
PEACE Dan – 1
Toni Bou on the podium – Budapest X-Trial 2019 – Round 1
KTM’s Taylor Robert wins Primm WORCS
The opening round of the 2019 Rocky Mountain ATV-MC WORCS Series got underway in Primm, Nevada last weekend and it was Taylor Robert (FMF/KTM) who came away with the victory over the Kawasaki pairing of Zach Bell and Blayne Thompson.
Robert, who was still sore from a big crash the day before while practicing, was dogged most of the way by Bell while Thompson made it two Precision Concepts/Kawasaki Team Green bikes on the podium.
Dante Oliveira (RPM/KTM) and defending champ Giacomo Redondi (KTM) rounded out the top five overall.
Taylor Robert wins Primm WORCS – Image by Harlen Foley
Former WORCS champ Gary Sutherlin and a tough day, and that included running out of gas. The KTM rider still managed to place sixth overall, one spot better than Husqvarna rider Andrew Short, who made it to the track just in time after having just completed the Dakar Rally in Peru.
Clayton Hengeveld (Precision Concepts/Kawasaki Team Green) won the Pro2 class, and Mateo Oliveira (GasGas) won the Pro2 Lites division.
Pro
Taylor Robert (KTM)
Zach Bell (Kaw)
Blayne Thompson (Kaw)
Dante Oliveira (KTM)
Giacomo Redondi (KTM)
Pro 2
Clayton Hengeveld (Kaw)
Tallon Lafountaine (Hon)
Austin Serpa (KTM)
Austin Walton (Hus)
Chance Fullerton (Bet)
Pro 2 Lites
Mateo Oliveira (GG)
Brandy Richards (KTM)
Tyler Nicholson (KTM)
Dallas Serpa (KTM)
Parker Wood (KTM)
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Norton Third at AMA Hare Scrambles
Aussie Callum Norton is over in America preparing for the 2019 Australian season and last weekend he contested the opening round of the AMA West Hare Scrambles Championship and despite the wet conditions and tough competition the KTM rider came home in third place.
Norton was actually leading the race in the early stages but Joe Wasson managed to get by and take the win over Max Gerston and Norton.
Old Bar Twilight Dirt Track
It was an action packed night of racing as the Australian Dirt Track season kicked off at Old Bar, Taree last weekend and in the end it was Jarryd Oram who came home with the win in the main event over Jamie Chapman and Thomas Donnely while pre-race favourite Michael Kirkness was forced to settle with the 450 class win after getting a flat tyre while winning the Open final.
Old Bar Twilight Dirt Track – Michael Kirkness
Chapman bounced back from being pipped by Oram in the Open Final to win the 250cc class while Thomas Donnelly (Dash for Cash), Darren Saxon (Clubman), Michael Booth (Over 35s), Dale Austin (Women), Viv Muddle (65cc 7 – U/9s), Thoren Openshaw (65cc 9 – U/13s), Cody Wilby (85cc 4str Mod.7 – U/12s) and Mitchell Bisley (250cc 4str 13-U/16s) all tasted success over the weekend.
Open Final
Jarryd ORAM
James CHAPMAN
Thomas DONNELLY
Boyd Hollis
Sam DAVIES
Michael BOOTH
Alec HURST
Kye ANDREWS
Jared MYER Michael KIRKNESS
450cc
Michael Kirkness (Macleay)
Thomas Donnelly (Gunnedah)
James Chapman (Macleay)
250cc
James Chapman (Macleay
Thomas Donnelly (Gunnedah
Blake Wilby (Taree)
Clubman
Darren Saxon (Hunter)
Ryan Wilson (Hunter)
Nicholas Ptolemy (Macleay)
Peter Fahey Memorial Over 35s
Michael Booth (Macleay)
Michael Rix (Macleay)
Jason Griffin (Hunter)
Women’s
Dale Austin (Taree)
Abbey Baker (Taree)
One Lap Dash for Cash
Thomas Donnelly (Gunnedah)
65cc 7 – U/9s
Viv Muddle (Gold Coast)
Nate Jaeger (Gunnedah)
Chayse Trappel (Macleay)
65cc 9 – U/13s
Thoren Openshaw (Taree)
Beau Bailey (Cowra)
Will Bisley (Taree)
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
85cc 4str Mod.7 – U/12s
Cody Wilby (Taree)
Will Bisley (Taree)
Alexander Adamson (Kurri Kurri)
85cc 2str/ 150cc 4str 9 – U/12s
Hayden Nelson (Taree)
Carter Thompson (Kurri Kurri)
Will Bisley (Taree)
85cc 2str/ 150cc 4str 11s
Hayden Nelson (Taree)
Carter Thompson (Kurri Kurri)
Thoren Openshaw (Taree)
85cc 2str/ 150cc 4str 12- U/16s
Mitchell Bisley (Taree)
Cody Lewis (Kurri Kurri)
Thomas Bullen (Kurri Kurri)
250cc 4str 13-U/16s
Mitchell Bisley (Taree)
Jack Joel (Central Coast)
Jarred Loveday (Macleay)
Willowbank Successfully Hosts Junior Solo Titles
Willowbank Raceway’s Ipswich Switches Junior Speedway Club hosted the Australian Junior Speedway Championships last weekend and from all accounts it was an exciting three nights of racing as the resurgence of speedway in Australia continues to flourish.
In the premier Under 21 500cc class it was defending champion Jaimon Lidsey who scored a convincing win from Jordan Stewart, Matt Gilmore and Zach Cook while the under 16 250cc class was a red hot affair but in the end it was Keynan Rew who got the win over Patrick Hamilton, Harrison Ryan and Flynn Nichol.
The 2019 Australian 125cc Under 16’s Pairs Championship was won by the NSW team of Cameron Dunker and Lachlan Hayes while in the 125cc Individual Championship it was Maurice Brown who got the win over Patrick Bowes, Luke Kileen and James Person.
Woffinden wins Rob Woffinden Solo Classic
The Rob Woffinden Classic is a premium event celebrating the legacy that Rob left when he helped build Pinjar Park Speedway in WA from the ground up and last weekend it was his son Tai who won the event for the second time to cap off an off-season that saw the 2018 World Champion enjoy a relaxing time back in Australia while keeping his speedway skills sharp.
Woffinden wins Rob Woffinden Solo Classic – Image by Warwick Hemy
The three-time World Champion defeated Cameron Heeps, Daniel Winchester and Blake Russell in the final before inviting all of the children on to the track to celebrate his win with a group photo on the presentation tailer.
Woffinden heads back to the UK in the coming weeks to start preparation for the defence of his World Speedway title.
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Yamaha Backs AORC for 14th Year
Running into its 14th consecutive year, Motorcycling Australia (MA) have announced the continued relationship between Yamaha Motor Australia and the Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) with Yamaha Motor Australia once again the naming rights sponsor for the 2019 season!
With a relationship that has spanned over a decade, MA and Yamaha Motor Australia will continue developing and expanding upon their professional relationship to build a successful 2019 season.
Yamaha becomes AORC naming rights sponsor in 2019 for 14th consecutive year
Ray Howard – Yamaha’s Motorsport Manager
“Yamaha Motor Australia are pleased to continue our substantial and positive relationships with the Australian Off-Road Championship. 2018 was a season full of impressive developments and clear progress, and we are seeing more initiatives in place for the 2019 season. We look forward to continue working closely with MA and the promoting clubs to further develop an already prestigious Championship that has proven to be a fertile ground for producing international standard riders that are successful on a world stage.”
With the likes of six-time consecutive Women’s World Trophy Champion at the FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) Jessica Gardiner included in the line-up of the Women’s class, the 2019 season couldn’t get any bigger! Alongside Gardiner are Team Australia’s World Trophy ISDE Champions Daniel Milner, Daniel Sanders and Lyndon Snodgrass, who each will contend for AORC Championship titles in their respective classes!
AORC has a long and prestigious history of paving the way for international legends, with the likes of 2019 Dakar Rally title holder Toby Price a former two time winner of the AORC.
The 2019 season kicks off in Gympie, Queensland for Rounds 1 and 2, from 9-10 March and entries are now open.
2019 Australian Off-Road Championship Calendar
Kirkness and Whale Headline Newcastle Supertrack
Motorcycle racing action returns to the Newcastle Showground this Friday night (January 25) where the ‘Newcastle Supertrack’ meeting will be staged at the iconic venue and it will bring Michael Kirkness and Max Whale together as they battle for glory.
There will be several classes in a race programmed where fans will see two or three rows of riders at the starting grid which is on par with the Flat Track Racing in America but not normally seen in dirt track racing in Australia.
Michael Kirkness to head to Newcastle Supertrack
The appearance of Kirkness is significant as over the past decade he has done more flat track racing in the US than any other Australian rider which may give the former Troy Bayliss Classic winner an edge as the 450cc class features 19inch wheels with no front brakes – just like the American AMA flat track racing uses.
The toughest opponent for Kirkness will be Queensland teenager Max Whale who was a runaway winner of the 2018 Rookie of the Year award in the AMA Flat Track Single class despite missing several rounds due to a shoulder injury. Whale heads back to the US next month where he has signed with a well-established team for the 2019 season.
Max Whale at Taree
Harry Maxwell has also lodged an entry and his enthusiasm for the meeting can be judged by the fact that he will be travelling down from Proserpine in north Queensland to take part while multiple Central Coast Cup winner David Smith is also among the entries.
There will also be racing for Twin Cylinder and Supermoto classes, a Pro 250 class and Speedway and Long Track sliders.
Action will get under way with practice and one round of racing on Friday afternoon from 4pm before a tea break, then introductions at 6.30pm and then the big night session.
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
The Repsol Honda newcomer elected to have surgery on the injury, which saw a titanium screw inserted via a minimally invasive technique. He will remain in hospital for 24 hours for further observation. Four days rest will give the injury sufficient time to heal from the operation and physiotherapy can then begin.
The Spaniard aims to be fully fit for the Qatar test on 23-25 February at Losail International Circuit, the same venue that will host the MotoGP World Championship opener on 10 March.
Lorenzo will now head to Madrid in Spain for the 25th Anniversary Repsol Honda Team launch on 23 January, where he’ll join reigning world champion Marc Marquez.
The 2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT is now available for pre-orders for North American consumers. Prospective customers in the U.S. and Canada can register online at https://prebookingusav85tt.motoguzzi.com to reserve a V85 TT ahead of their arrival in dealerships in the spring.
Pre-orders will require a $2,000 deposit and will include a $250 credit towards accessories.
Moto Guzzi also confirms the colors and pricing for the 2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT and the geared-up Adventure version. The V85 TT Adventure will come in the Giallo Sahara color pictured above or a Rosso Kalahari red for $12,990 US ($14,990 in Canada). The base model V85 TT will be offered in the Grigio Atacama gray color for $11990 US ($13,990 in Canada).
Begin Press Release:
MOTO GUZZI LAUNCHES PRE-ORDER WEBSITE FOR V85 TT IN USA AND CANADA
BOOKING BEGINS FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED 2019 MODEL, WITH SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THOSE WHO PRECEDE DEALERSHIP ARRIVAL WITH DEPOSIT
THE NEW V85 TT IS THE ALL-TERRAIN MOTO GUZZI, FOR EVERY ROAD AND EVERY JOURNEY, PACKED WITH TECHNOLOGY, STYLE, AND EMOTION
After unveiling the 2019 Moto Guzzi V85TT Adventure at the IMS Show in Long Beach, California, and continued interest throughout winter tradeshows, Moto Guzzi has launched pre-order website, allowing reservations to be first among recipients upon dealer arrival later this year.
The 2019 V85 will be available in two versions, V85 TT, and V85 TT Adventure, with a selection of evocative colors and accessory options, that have kept future owners daydreaming since the machines were announced. To further support demand, and this sense of adventure, all pre-orders qualify for a $250 accessory credit.
The new V85 platform, built around an entirely new engine, reflects a construction philosophy in which simplicity, practicality and lightness make for an unfiltered relationship between motorcycle and rider. The TT acronym, meaning “tutto terreno”, or all-terrain, it identifies a motorcycle dedicated to travel in its purest and most original form. Moto Guzzi V85 TT combines style features reminiscent of the golden age of motorcycle adventures with the content and functionality of a modern touring enduro. Its configuration mirrors that of all Moto Guzzi bikes in production today: an air-cooled transverse 90° V-twin with OHV distribution and two valves per cylinder.
2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Adventure
Colors: Rosso Kalahari, Giallo Sahara
Pricing: USA – $12,990 / Canada – $14,990
Availability: USA, May 2019 / Canada, June 2019
2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT
Colors: Grigio Atacama
Pricing: USA – $11,990 / Canada – $13,990
Availability: USA, May 2019 / Canada, June 2019
Just1 Racing have announced the arrival of the J38 helmet for just $99.95, with a whole host of colour options available and a great value option for those on a budget.
Just1 J38 Blade helmets – Available in six colour options
Modern design finds its true strength in simplicity with the J38 Blade, and Just1 uses this philosophy, combined with the highest levels of production technology to this helmet to Australia for an amazingly low price.
Just1 has a strong global reputation for high quality products with impressive graphics and the J38 is no exception, with the Blade coming in six different colour options.
Just1 J38 Blade helmet – Yellow/Red/Blue/Black
A resin shell in high quality thermoplastic includes multiple large vents and anti-intrusion mesh over the air intakes, while a J.1.E.R (Just1 Emergency Remove) cheek pad system is also featured.
The hygienically treated interior system is removable and washable, and the J38 is ready for a neck brace, while an adjustable peak and double-D retention system are included. The Just1 J38 helmet is ECE homologated, with a weight of 1320g +/- 50g.
Jorge Lorenzo undergoes surgery for broken scaphoid
Having sustained a broken scaphoid while training, Jorge Lorenzo has undergone successful surgery to repair the break, with a titanium screw inserted via a minimally invasive technique, aiming to get him back on track as quickly as possible.
Lorenzo will remain in hospital for 24 hours for further observation. Four days rest will give the injury sufficient time to heal from the operation and physiotherapy can then begin.
Due to the nature of the injury, Jorge Lorenzo and the Repsol Honda Team have elected that the rider will miss the Sepang Test to focus fully on his recovery. His aim is to return fully fit for the Qatar Test, February 23 to 25.
Jorge Lorenzo testing in November 2018
He now heads to Madrid for the 25th Anniversary Repsol Honda Team launch on January 23 alongside Marc Márquez.
The injury occured while continuing his preparations for the 2019 MotoGP World Championship, as Jorge Lorenzo suffered a fall while riding just outside of Verona, Italy. After multiple checks, it was unfortunately confirmed that the five-time world champion had sustained a broken scaphoid.
Production has begun for the 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260. First shown at EICMA in November, this first production model was completed today at Ducati’s plant in Borgo Panigale, Italy.
Now sporting the 1262cc V-Twin engine with Testastretta DVT variable cam timing as the xDiavel, the 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 claims 159 hp at 9500 rpm and 95 lb-ft. at 7500 rpm while promising smooth delivery at low revs and sporty top-end performance.
The new Diavel should arrive in European dealerships in mid-Feburary while American dealers will get them a little later. U.S. pricing starts at $19,995 for the base model and $22,995 for the S model.
Begin Press Release
Production of the Diavel 1260 begins in Bologna
The first Ducati Diavel 1260 rolls off the production line at Borgo Panigale
Eagerly awaited new bike to arrive at dealerships in mid-February
The Borgo Panigale plant has begun producing the new Diavel 1260. The first bike rolled off the line on Monday 21 January and, as is the tradition, was greeted by the entire factory with a toast and an official speech by CEO Claudio Domenicali and Production Manager Silvano Fini.
The success of the new power cruiser, begun with its official debut at EICMA 2018, underscores the high levels of interest and expectation this bike is generating among enthusiasts all over the world, Ducatisti and non. Unconventional, unique, unmistakeable: as soon as it was launched at EICMA 2010, the Diavel stunned with its personality, design and sport naked handling.
The Diavel 1260 – the second generation of this unique bike – has more assertive lines and higher performance, is more fun on mixed-road routes and even more comfortable for rider and passenger alike. Its sport naked soul is magnified by a Testastretta DVT 1262 engine that combines breath-taking acceleration with the smooth low-rev power delivery that’s ideal for everyday rides or longer-lasting tours. An upgraded chassis set-up makes the Diavel 1260 surprisingly agile while top-drawer technology and electronics provide braking performance on a par with that of a superbike (and does so safely, thanks to Bosch Cornering ABS) and user-friendly engine performance control. Comfort levels for rider and passenger remain outstanding thanks to an upright riding position, a large, generously padded seat and another Diavel hallmark, the 17″ inch rear wheel with its 240 mm wide tyre.
The Diavel 1260 is also available as a sportier S version featuring first-rate Öhlins suspension, dedicated wheels, an even higher-performing braking system and Ducati Quick Shift up & down Evo as standard.
As of mid-February the bike will be in Ducati dealerships (Europe), ready to play a pivotal role in the 2019 motorcycling season. The Diavel 1260 is available in Sandstone Grey, while the Diavel 1260 S goes on sale in Sandstone Grey or Thrilling Black & Dark Stealth.
While continuing his preparations for the 2019 MotoGP™ World Championship, Jorge Lorenzo suffered a fall while riding just outside of Verona, Italy. After multiple checks, it was unfortunately confirmed that the five-time world champion had sustained a broken scaphoid.
“Finland has a long and fine tradition of motorsport, and Finnish know-how as an event organiser and motorsports operator is trusted,” he continued. “The MotoGP competition is of great importance to Finnish motorcycle racing, as the recognition of the series increases in Finland and on the other hand, it is easier for Finnish riders to compete in international classes.”
Bringing you the Best Motorcycle News from Around the Web!
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok
