Willow Springs International Raceway has been sold to a private equity firm, and the track’s existing management has told all remaining tenants to vacate the property by the end of the month, according to notices posted at the circuit.

The storied track has been acquired by CrossHarbor Capital Partners, which has not responded to an email from Roadracing World seeking comment. A sale price was not immediately available.

Notices have been posted by the track’s current management saying the property must be vacated by March 29 at 5 pm or it will become the property of CrossHarbor. Since the death of longtime Willow Springs owner Bill Huth in 2015, the facility has been operated by his children.

On its website, CrossHarbor describes itself as:

“Founded in 1993 by loan workout and property turnaround specialists, CrossHarbor is a long-standing, privately-owned investment and asset management firm focused exclusively on commercial real estate located within the United States. The firm manages multiple fund strategies that invest across the risk/return spectrum on behalf of a diversified and highly regarded group of endowments, foundations, public and corporate pension plans, financial institutions, family offices and sovereign entities.”

The 600-acre Willow Springs property’s roots go back to 1953 when a flowing, nine-turn, 2.5-mile road course was built and soon earned the reputation as “the Fastest Road in the West.”

Over the years, the facility was expanded. Now, Willow Springs International Raceway includes eight separate tracks: the 2.5-mile paved road course (which was partially repaved in 2023), the 1.8-mile Streets of Willow paved road course; the 1.0-mile Horse Thief Mile paved road course; the paved 0.625-mile Willow Springs Kart Track; a 0.25-mile paved autocross and drifting track called the Balcony; the quarter-mile Willow Springs Speedway paved oval; and Walt James Stadium, which includes 3/8-mile paved and clay oval tracks.

The facility operates year-round and has hosted sanctioned racing, riding and driving schools, track days, and TV and movie production non-stop since it opened. Huth also founded the Willow Springs Motorcycle Club (WSMC) to run club races at the track in 1991, following disputes with AFM (over a club associate criticizing EMTs at the track) and ARRA, (which Huth said ran events without the track-required medical insurance). 

WSMC ran the third Sunday of every month for most of its 21-year history before it was closed down in 2012.

According to a post on thedrive.com, the new owners said, “Crossharbor is honoring all current bookings, subject to normal course-of-business adjustments.”

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An Open Tire Series Built for Racers, by Racers

Pirelli Motorcycle Tires and the American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) are delighted to announce the renewal of their esteemed partnership for the 2025 racing season. This collaboration reaffirms Pirelli’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class performance and innovation to the racetrack while honoring ASRA’s legacy as a series crafted for racers, by racers.

For years, Pirelli has been a trusted sponsoring partner of ASRA, supplying riders with cutting-edge tire technology that enhances performance, safety, and competition. As the 2025 season approaches, this partnership continues to thrive, promising another year of exhilarating racing action and opportunities for riders to push their limits. Pirelli’s involvement underscores its dedication to advancing motorcycle racing while supporting the diverse needs of ASRA’s passionate racing community.

ASRA remains steadfast in its mission to provide a platform where racers of all backgrounds can compete on their terms. True to its roots, the series will maintain its status as an open tire series in 2025, ensuring competitors have the freedom to choose the equipment that best suits their riding style and strategy. This racer-driven philosophy, combined with Pirelli’s industry-leading tire solutions,including their Diablo Superbike and Supercorsa line up., sets the stage for a season that celebrates skill, innovation, and the spirit of competition.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with ASRA, a series that embodies the heart and soul of motorcycle racing,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager of Pirelli North America. “At Pirelli, we are passionate about supporting racers at every level, and ASRA’s commitment to an open tire format aligns perfectly with our goal of empowering riders with choice and performance. We look forward to an exciting 2025 season filled with celebrating competitors’ achievements at ASRA events.”

“Our partnership with Pirelli is a testament to our shared values of excellence and dedication to the racing community”said ASRA partner Alex Spellman. “ASRA was built for racers, by racers, and we’re thrilled to carry that legacy forward in 2025 with Pirelli’s support. By remaining an open tire series, we ensure that our competitors have the flexibility to race their way, and we can’t wait to see what this season brings.”

The 2025 ASRA season promises to deliver high-octane competition across its challenging courses, showcasing the talents of skilled riders using top-tier equipment. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans and participants alike are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as ASRA and Pirelli gear up for another unforgettable year.

About ASRA

The American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) is a premier motorcycle racing series in the United States, dedicated to fostering a competitive and inclusive environment for riders. Built for racers, by racers, ASRA offers a unique platform that prioritizes rider choice and celebrates the thrill of the sport.

About Pirelli

Founded in 1872, Pirelli is a global leader in premium tire manufacturing, renowned for its innovation, performance, and deep-rooted passion for motorsport. With a legacy of excellence, Pirelli continues to support riders and racers worldwide, delivering tires that blend cutting-edge technology with superior quality.

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For the third consecutive year, the revenue of the Borgo Panigale motorcycle manufacturer exceeds one billion euros. At the end of 2024, Ducati’s operating result is 91 million euros, corresponding to a profitability of 9.1%.

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati: “The 2024 results confirm the strength of our brand and the company’s ability to generate the financial resources that allow us to continue to invest and consolidate the excellence, value and exclusivity of our products.”

Borgo Panigale, Bologna (Italy) March 18, 2025 – Ducati ended 2024 with financial results that testify to the solidity of its competitive positioning in the two-wheel sector and the effectiveness of the strategic choices made in recent years, oriented towards the development of a product range that represents the best fusion of beauty, performance and technology.

For the third consecutive year, Ducati recorded revenues of more than one billion euros (2024: 1,003 billion; 2023: 1,065 billion). A result achieved despite the challenges that are characterizing the industry and the current global competitive environment.

The operating result (EBIT) stood at 91 million euros, equal to a profitability of 9.1% (2023: 10.5%). A key figure, which also highlights the company’s ability to focus on generating the financial resources needed to support its strategic plans.

During 2024, 54,495 motorcycles were delivered to Ducatisti all over the world (2023: 58.224). Although showing a decline compared to the previous year, the figure is in line with the philosophy of the Bologna-based company, which aims to preserve the exclusivity and value of its products for its passionate clients.

“2024 ends with a positive balance that, despite a challenging competitive environment, confirms our solidity and a benchmark profitability in the two-wheeler market.” declared Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati. “ We enjoy a solid financial base that allows us to continuously and significantly invest in research and development, innovation and racing competition, while continuing to strengthen the uniqueness and prestige of our product range and ensuring the high standards of quality and service typical of a product of excellence. This, combined with our commitment to making every Ducatista feel part of a great family, makes the brand more beloved than ever today.”

Henning Jens, Ducati CFO, added: ” 2024 was a complicated year due to the particularly challenging market conditions the whole business faced. In this context, we chose to focus on protecting overall profitability, prioritizing long-term sustainability rather than just aiming at increasing sales volumes. This approach, combined with further improvements of our efficiency, is in line with our premium strategy and it allowed us to conclude the year with a profitability that reached 9.1% return on sales and an operating result that shows our ability to generate value and guarantee a solid financial base also under difficult circumstances. “

Looking at 2025, Ducati presented to the public ten new models, further enriching an increasingly complete, sophisticated and technologically advanced product range, designed to offer every Ducatista the most suitable bike to express their passion for two wheels.

These include the new XDiavel V4 and Multistrada V4, equipped with the V4 Granturismo engine, alongside the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4, both powered by the latest evolution of the Desmosedici Stradale engine, and the Panigale V2, Streetfighter V2 and Multistrada V2 , equipped with the new V2 engine, the lightest twin-cylinder ever made by Ducati. In addition, the Company makes its entry into the world of Off-Road with the introduction of its first motocross bike, available from June 2025 at selected dealerships.

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Dynamic Performance and Authentic Harley-Davidson Style, Now More Attainable Than Ever

Harley-Davidson® has announced new lower pricing for the agile and exciting 2025 Nightster® motorcycle. The Nightster model is now available at authorized (U.S.) Harley-Davidson® dealers starting at $9,999* MSRP in the base Billiard Gray color, making the authentic Harley-Davidson riding experience more attainable than ever.

The Nightster model is lean and powerful, with a 27-inch seat height, low center of gravity and narrow profile, easy for new and experienced riders to handle with confidence and place feet down flat at a stop. The liquid-cooled Revolution® Max 975T V-Twin engine is tuned to produce strong low-end torque, the kind of real-world power that delivers an exhilarating rush of acceleration through urban traffic and out of backroad corners. Standard equipment includes cast aluminum wheels, LED lighting, premium Brembo braking components, selectable Road, Rain, and Sport ride modes, and rider safety enhancements, including anti-lock brakes and traction control. The Nightster model combines modern performance and technology with a classic Harley-Davidson silhouette and aggressive blacked-out styling.

Nightster motorcycle customers that have completed the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy Course or another approved accredited course are eligible for the Rider Training Graduates 5.99% APR** financing offer through Harley-Davidson Financial Services if the motorcycle is purchased within 180 days of course completion. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for full details.

*Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for base models. Options such as color are available at additional cost. Prices exclude tax, title, licensing, registration fees, destination charges, surcharges (attributable to raw materials costs in the product supply chain), added accessories, and additional dealer charges, if any, and are subject to change. Harley-Davidson reimburses dealers for performing manufacturer-specified pre-delivery inspection and setup tasks. Dealer prices may vary.

**Financing Offer available only on new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles financed through Eaglemark Savings Bank (ESB) and is subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify. 5.99% APR offer is available only to high credit tier customers who have completed a Riding Academy, Skilled Riders, MSF or other state accredited course within 180 days of application date and only for up to a 60 month term. The APR may vary based on the applicant’s past credit performance and the term of the loan. For example, a 2025 Nightster model in Billiard Gray with an MSRP of $9,999, 10% down payment and amount financed of $8,999.10, 60 month repayment term, and 5.99% APR results in monthly payments of $173.94. In this example, customer is responsible for applicable taxes, title, licensing fees and any other fees or charges at the time of sale. APR is calculated according to the simple interest method. Not valid in conjunction with other offers. Other terms, conditions, and limitations may apply. Dealer participation may vary. Financing offer is subject to change or cancellation at anytime. See a Harley-Davidson Dealer for details.

About Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

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One of the most anticipated releases for motorcyclists who love sporty, dynamic riding, hits US Aprilia dealerships this March –- the new RS 660, available for $11,649 USD ex-showroom.*

Already the benchmark in its category, the Italian sports middleweight has evolved with many enhancements. The fairing features new aerodynamic winglets for greater stability, while the already class-leading electronics package gains launch control and a refined new color instrument cluster. Weighing just 183 kg ready to ride and delivering an increased output of 105 HP from its twin-cylinder engine, the RS 660 further improves an already excellent power-to-weight ratio. The new Aprilia RS 660 is available in two new colour schemes – Venom Yellow and Blue Marlin.

However, that’s not all: the RS 660 is now available in the Factory trim, a name given to the most exclusive and premium versions of Aprilia’s sports models. Recognised by enthusiasts for their racing-inspired sophistication, these models deliver a unique riding experience on track and road. The Aprilia RS 660 Factory comes standard with advanced, fully adjustable Öhlins suspension and exclusive new graphics and is available for $13,999 USD ex-showroom.

*Canadians will be able to purchase the new RS 660 for $14,295 CAD this April, and the new RS 660 Factory for $16,795 CAD in May.

Find all the details at APRILIA.COM.

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•The brand-new bike from the Borgo Panigale company was put to the test on the treacherous sands of Ottobiano and immediately demonstrated great competitiveness and reliability.

•The Desmo250 MX passes the first test of the season, taking third place in the Italian Prestige MX2 Championship with a strong Alessandro Lupino.

It took just a few weeks for the Ducati Desmo250 MX, raced by Team Beddini Factory Racing, to conquer the first Italian podium of its very young career. Despite a painful and swollen wrist, the reigning Italian MX1 Champion managed to get on the podium at the first attempt, demonstrating all his fight and tenacity.

It had been 10 years since Alessandro Lupino had ridden a 250 4-stroke, and the first round of the Italian Prestige Motocross MX2 Championship was also the occasion for him to debut in a class he had never competed in before in the Italian series. The nine-time Italian Motocross Champion, with 44 podiums to his name in MX1, riding the Ducati Desmo250 MX for its debut, also achieved his first personal top three in the Prestige MX2 Championship.

First in his group at the end of official practice on Saturday, Alessandro also recorded the best time in the subsequent timed session, earning the second gate pick for the two motos on Sunday.

At the start of race one, the 34-year-old began just outside the top five, moving into fourth after one lap. By the next lap, he was in third, maintaining an excellent pace and quickly closing the gap to second, eventually taking the position. However, his rival’s response was clumsy, and after making contact, Lupino was sent to the ground with a sore wrist and the bike severely damaged. The Italian didn’t give up, though, and admirably gritted his teeth to cross the finish line in 10th.

Then, in the second moto, Alessandro was fifth out of the first corner and, after three laps, was in second, as he superbly found his flow. From there, nothing stood between the Desmo250 MX and the third step of the podium, which served as a fitting reward for a brilliant moto.

After the first round of the championship, Lupino is third in the standings with 290 points. The next round of the Italian Prestige Championship will be held at the Mantova circuit on March 29 and 30, a track where, a year ago, Alessandro rode the Desmo450 MX for its debut.

Alessandro Lupino: “I’m happy once again, we did a great job, and I have to congratulate the team at Ducati, who performed a miracle. The Desmo250 MX has only been running for three weeks, and today we came for a test day. However, if I hadn’t been taken out, we could have secured two second-place finishes. As a rider, I’m pleasantly surprised to have made it onto the podium and to already have such a competitive bike on our first outing.”

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BMW NA 50th Anniversary | 50 Stories for 50 Years Chapter 9: “A New Chapter for BMW Motorrad: BMW NA takes over from Butler & Smith”

Shortly after taking over U.S. sales of BMW automobiles from independent distributor Max Hoffman in 1975, BMW of North America initiated the process to do the same for the motorcycle side of the business.

BMW had been exporting motorcycles to the U.S. since 1950, less than two years after production had resumed in Munich following the destruction of World War II. At first, bikes were ordered directly by dealers whose relationship with BMW predated the war, like Oscar Liebmann, whose New Jersey-based AMOL Precision became the first official BMW motorcycle dealer in the U.S. in 1950. By the end of that year, however, the right to distribute BMW’s motorcycles in this market was assigned to the V. (for Victor) Harasty organization.

Four years later, that privilege was transferred to the Butler & Smith Trading Company. (Contrary to assumptions, the name of the firm referred not to its founders but to the intersection in Brooklyn where the company was located. Butler & Smith first imported NSU motorcycles from Germany, then Lambretta scooters from Italy.)

On February 19, 1954, Butler & Smith president Alfred Bondy wrote a letter to inform NSU and BMW motorcycle dealers that Butler & Smith was BMW’s official U.S. importer. Bondy expressed his desire that BMW dealers should continue with the new distributor, which would “combine Germany’s two most prominent brands which are world renowned for their workmanship and performance.” Bondy also stated that “The first BMW motorcycles will arrive in a few days. A large quantity of BMW parts is on order from the factory, and we hope that our reputation for fast and complete NSU parts service will soon apply to our BMW parts service.”

Initially, Butler & Smith would handle operations on the East Coast, with West Coast distribution delegated to the Flanders Company of Pasadena, California. In 1969, Butler & Smith took over distribution for the entire U.S., and in May 1970 established a new headquarters and import center in Norwood, New Jersey.

Even prior to that move, Butler & Smith had ensured that BMW built motorcycles suited to the needs and tastes of U.S. riders, most of whom used bikes like the R 50 and R 69 for long-distance touring. Their suitability for that purpose had been firmly established in 1958, when Ohio dealer John Penton rode his 600cc R 69 from New York to Los Angeles in 52 hours, 11 minutes, setting a new record and gaining great publicity for the reliability of BMW motorcycles. (Penton was an accomplished off-road rider, and he’d ride a factory-backed R 27 single in the 1962 International Six Days Trial, winning a silver medal despite a few bad crashes.) Thanks to Butler & Smith, BMW motorcycles could be ordered in the U.S. with options like dual seats, higher handlebars, and accessories like saddlebags, fairings, and the side stands preferred by Americans over the standard center stand. Later, Butler & Smith would offer aftermarket equipment including Krauser luggage, Luftmeister fairings, and Continental or Metzeler tires.

BMW built sporty models as well as touring bikes, of course, and Butler & Smith went racing to promote them. The firm became especially active on the racetrack following the move to New Jersey, which likely coincided with the ascension of Dr. Peter Adams to the leadership of the Butler & Smith firm. Adams was the son of Butler & Smith owner Irwin Adams, who may have founded or purchased it with Bondy in 1949 but who had in any case become its sole owner by 1970.

Adams formed a technologically sophisticated race team led by Udo Gietl and Todd Schuster, both of whom were innovative fabricators and technicians. The team got off to a fine start in 1971, campaigning a thoroughly exotic 750cc machine in the American Motorcycle Association’s Formula 750 class with riders Reg Pridmore and Gary Fisher. Five years later, the Butler & Smith team switched to the R 90 S, and its extensively modified bikes finished 1-2 in the very first AMA Superbike championship, with Reg Pridmore taking the crown over teammate Steve McLaughlin.

The elation of that championship would be short-lived, at least where Butler & Smith was concerned. Having taken over U.S. automobile sales and distribution from Max Hoffman in March 1975, BMW of North America was looking to do the same for its motorcycles. Dr. Adams resisted the takeover, and in 1978 filed suit to retain his distributorship. BMW of North America prevailed in September 1980, and that October saw the company take possession of the Butler & Smith operation at Walnut and Hudson streets in Norwood, New Jersey.

The new division was led by vice-president Jean-Pierre Bailby, who’d come to North America from BMW France. Joseph Salluzzo served as national sales manager, with Rolf Kettler as marketing manager. Below them, many of the motorcycle division’s employees were retained from Butler & Smith, at least temporarily.

“At that point, all of the employees in sales, parts, and service were Butler & Smith employees, wondering what happens next,” said Rob Mitchell. “Eventually, people from BMW NA started filling some positions. I came about six months later to head up advertising and promotion, taking over from Rolf Kettler, who’d been sent over temporarily from Germany. I’d been in sales training, and I got hired because I was the only person at NA who rode motorcycles. It was a real trial-by-fire.”

Mitchell worked out of an office in Norwood for the next two years, until the motorcycle division moved to BMW of North America’s headquarters in Montvale. In the interim, BMW NA began modernizing operations for sales and distribution, financing, and technical training. Imposing new standards allowed BMW to cut the number of U.S. dealers by half, from around 300 to 150. “Like Hoffman, Butler & Smith would sign you up as a dealer if you purchased $500 worth of parts and a [BMW] sign,” Mitchell said. “I visited one dealer in upstate New York that was in an extension of his house, and which had a dirt floor in the workshop. Once BMW NA put certain operating requirements for corporate signage, inventory, facilities, and technical training—all the normal dealership stuff—dealers like that, who weren’t willing to step up and make the investment, fell away.”

Replacing Butler & Smith with a modern, efficient sales subsidiary yielded tangible benefits, Mitchell said. “Back in the old days, you’d pick up the telephone and order a bike from Butler & Smith. Now you had a modern business culture for ordering bikes and parts, signing up for technical training, all of that. Some dealers were upset that they could no longer continue the way they had before, but those who stayed on found they could offer a lot more to customers. And the customers got way better support, too. It’s much better to go into a dealer and see dozens of new bikes rather than just one, plus accessories and people anxious to help you.”

As it had with the cars, BMW of North America was hoping to increase sales of BMW motorcycles in the U.S., and to take advantage of motorcycles’ burgeoning popularity in this country. (That phenomenon was due largely to the Japanese manufacturers, who marketed their lightweight motorcycles to young people as an alternative to cars, and as a “fun” alternative to heavyweight American machines.) Although hard data isn’t available for the years immediately before and after the transition, documents within the BMW Archive record declining export volumes to the U.S. in the mid 1970s: 10,553 units in 1974; 9,256 units in 1975; and 7,539 units in 1976. Presumably, imports declined further as the decade wore on. Mitchell doesn’t know the exact figures, but believes that Butler & Smith was selling perhaps 2,500 motorcycles per year by the time BMW of North America took over sales and distribution in 1980.

In 1985, the earliest year for which BMW NA data is available, the company sold 5,597 motorcycles in the U.S., followed by 6,078 in 1986. That number represented barely one percent of new motorcycles sold in the U.S. per annum, but it was a significant improvement nonetheless.

A new ad campaign helped. After an agency review, BMW’s motorcycle account was moved to Ammirati & Puris, which had created “The Ultimate Driving Machine” tagline that resonated so strongly with car buyers. For the motorcycles, Ammirati & Puris came up with another memorable slogan, “The Legendary Motorcycles of Germany,” which emphasized the company’s heritage at a time when BMW’s performance was somewhat tepid compared to that of the Japanese and Italian marques. Ammirati & Puris placed ads in the Wall Street Journal and Esquire magazine, hoping to reach upscale customers. This didn’t always work, Mitchell said. “Motorcyclists are grass-roots people, and prestige isn’t the biggest thing. It’s a very different group than the car people.”

More important, Mitchell said, was ensuring that BMW NA maintained a press fleet of new motorcycles, and staged press launches to ensure that new models were reviewed in motorcycle magazines. Those new models would themselves help BMW NA succeed, especially after the R 80 G/S caught on with adventure-touring riders following its 1980 introduction. “What started as an oddity—an 800cc, 400-pound dirt bike—became the most important segment, but it took probably ten years to really take off.”

In late 1983, BMW would enter another crucial segment, supplementing its longstanding boxer twin lineup with all-new K bikes powered by water-cooled three- and four-cylinder engines. “Even longtime boxer owners seemed genuinely excited by the K bikes,” Mitchell said. “There was clearly room for both within BMW.”

Today, BMW Motorrad USA offers a full range of motorcycles, from the entry-level G 310 R and GS to the Superbike-spec M 1000 RR, with all manner of touring, heritage, urban, and adventure bikes in between. A wide variety of engines is available, from singles to inline sixes, plus inline fours, Boxer and parallel twins, and even battery-powered scooters.

BMW Motorrad’s factories in Berlin and elsewhere around the world are busier than ever, turning out 209,257 bikes in 2023. Of those, 24,176 went to customers in Germany and 21,668 to France, while 17,017 were delivered to customers in the U.S., BMW Motorrad’s third-largest motorcycle market worldwide. That number constitutes only a small fraction of the half-million-plus motorcycles sold in the U.S. last year, but volume isn’t everything. BMW riders have long been among the industry’s most enthusiastic riders, especially when it comes to putting serious mileage on their machines. Just like John Penton’s R 69 in 1959, BMW motorcycles continue to carry their riders quickly and reliably from coast to coast…and beyond.

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Ken Roczen captures his first DAYTONA Supercross championship while Kyle Wyman, Dallas Daniels, Kody Kopp continued to dominate at Daytona in their respective disciplines

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 8, 2025) – The 83rd running of the DAYTONA 200 was one for the books as Josh Herrin won his third DAYTONA 200 in a row to cap off the 84th Annual Bike Week Presented by GEICO races at Daytona International Speedway. Herrin secured his fourth overall DAYTONA 200 victory Saturday afternoon, and made history by becoming the first rider to win three DAYTONA 200s in a row.

Herrin, a California native and rider for Warhorse HSBK Ducati, persevered through two red flags, and was dominant through the final stint of the race on his Ducati Panigale V2 bike, winning by 5.330 seconds over Richie Escalante and Tyler Scott, who finished second and third. Herrin made the most of his opportunities throughout the day, overcoming trouble exiting his pit with 16 laps to go, cementing himself among the legends who have been victorious at Daytona International Speedway.

Herrin joined a list of stars from the two-wheeled world who cemented their legacy in their respective racing disciplines with a win at Daytona International Speedway over the 10 days of events.

Fans of DAYTONA Supercross were guaranteed to see a new champion with no previous 450SX winners in the field for the 55th running of Bike Week’s opening racing event on Saturday, March 1. And there were a plethora of hungry riders ready to step up to the top of the podium. In the end, it was veteran rider Ken Roczen who captured the victory in his 11th attempt at glory at DIS.

The Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki rider put on a Monster Energy AMA Supercross clinic after taking the lead at the midpoint of the race, holding off Cooper Webb and Aaron Plessinger, who finished second and third, respectively.

The 250SX class also had a first-time DAYTONA Supercross winner as Hudson, Florida, native RJ Hampshire captured the win. Tom Vialle and Seth Hammaker rounded out the top three.

When the racing action shifted from the temporary Ricky Carmichael-designed Supercross course located along the frontstretch of the famed Daytona International Speedway to the historic 3.51-mile road course, a familiar name in Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing rider Kyle Wyman took home the hardware in the pair of Mission King Of The Baggers races.

Wyman won his fourth and fifth consecutive Daytona King Of The Baggers trophies, sweeping the two weekend races for the series on Friday and Saturday afternoons. But the two wins played out completely differently.

On Friday, Wyman faced an early challenge from Troy Herfoss, but when Herfoss crashed out with five laps to go, it was clear sailing to the checkered flag for Wyman. On Saturday, the pair stayed close together throughout the race – with Herfoss leading on the white flag lap. But Wyman took the lead coming out of the infield portion and was able to hold off Herfoss through the backstretch chicane for the win.

On Thursday and Friday night, the Progressive American Flat Track organization put on a show under the lights on the DAYTONA Flat Track, located in the shadow of the famed banking outside Turns 1 and 2 of Daytona International Speedway.

Rick Ware Racing’s Dallas Daniels once again reigned supreme on the short track at Daytona, sweeping the Mission AFT SuperTwins class pair of features. He won one of the two races a year ago.

Kody Kopp, the winningest rider in AFT Singles history, continued to build on his win total by capturing victory in both races. He now has 23 wins in AFT Singles presented by KICKER, five of them at Daytona.

As the 84th annual Bike Week winds down, visitors can still look forward to a summer filled with fun at Daytona International Speedway. Events such as the spring Daytona Turkey Run (March 21-23), Jeep Beach (April 18-27), and Welcome to Rockville (May 15-18) will provide entertainment for fans of all ages.

NASCAR returns to the World Center of Racing for intense action as the NASCAR Cup Series will close out the regular season and set the Playoff field during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Saturday, August 23. The NASCAR Xfinity Series will also be helping to set their Playoff field in the Wawa 250 Powered by Coca-Cola on August 22.

For a complete calendar of upcoming events or to purchase tickets, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.

Fans can also stay connected with Daytona International Speedway via www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, on X, Facebook and Instagram, as well as the all-new NASCAR Tracks App, for the latest speedway news.

About Daytona International Speedway  
Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. Some of the exciting racing events include January’s Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and Roar Before The Rolex 24, February’s DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, March’s Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, the August Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekend, and much more. The Speedway grounds are also used extensively for other events that include concerts (Welcome to Rockville, Heroes Honor Festival, etc.), sporting events (DAYTONA Soccer Fest, CLASH DAYTONA, etc.) civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.
  

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A new chapter of Yamaha Racing history began two weeks ago in Australia as the all new R9 made its debut in the FIM Supersport World Championship. And as racing debuts go, the Next Generation Supersport machine did not disappoint.

Introducing a brand-new motorcycle at world championship level is no easy task in the best of circumstances, let alone when the machine being succeeded has a legacy as iconic as the R6.

The development team at Yamaha Motor Europe Motorsport Research and Development have been working on the R9 in secret since early 2024 in close collaboration with the engineers from Japan.

The R9 is a hugely significant new model and to match this significance, Yamaha assembled its strongest-ever rider and team line-up in WorldSSP. Three teams, all former World Champions, (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate, Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Racing and GMT94) would field a six-strong rider-line up comprising of a mix of youth and experience to give Yamaha the best chance of success with the new machine.

The teams got a first taste of the new bike in WorldSSP spec for the first time in a shakedown test at Cremona last November, before heading off on their own pre-season testing programmes. Poor weather in Europe limited these tests, meaning the R9 headed to Australia for the first race of the season as an unknown quantity.

The official pre-season test at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit showed the bike had potential and as Round 1 got underway, Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) securing a front row start for the R9’s debut race offered further promise.

An exciting race would follow with not just one R9 in the mix but multiple throughout the two-part encounter, which featured mandatory a mandatory pit-stop at the mid-way point. In poetic style, Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate) – twice a runner-up in the WorldSSP championship – took the R9 to victory in its first ever race 126 days after he’d crossed the line first in the R6’s last ever race.

In our latest YouTube video, join the teams in Australia to go behind the scenes of the preparation for the opening races of the year as the R9 makes history. Watch below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R_CT5eXO0A

The post World Supersport: More On Yamaha R9 Development appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Most Powerful Production Harley-Davidson Big Twin Ever Sets New Benchmark for Street-Legal Bagger Performance

Harley-Davidson has set a new benchmark for performance baggers with the introduction of the CVO Road Glide® RR model, the most powerful and dynamic production motorcycle ever offered in the company’s 122-year history. Leveraging knowledge and components developed by the Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing Team competing in the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers road-racing series, the CVO Road Glide® RR model combines extraordinary performance with the obsessive attention to custom detail that is a hallmark of Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) limited production motorcycles.

“Taking inspiration from the track and onto the street, the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide RR is truly the ultimate in performance,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, CEO and President. “With this limited series of motorcycles, we’ve taken all the lessons from the track and created the pinnacle of street-legal bagger performance.”

Production of the CVO Road Glide® RR model will be limited to 131 hand-assembled, serialized motorcycles available through select authorized Harley-Davidson® dealers in the United States only, with a retail price of $110,000 that includes Harley-Davidson’s 24 Months/ Unlimited Miles Limited Warranty.

Race-Inspired Styling

A graphic design inspired by the livery created for the 2025 Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Team motorcycles competing on the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series establishes the high-performance attitude of the CVO Road Glide® RR model. Solid Racing Orange color “disintegrates” into a series of bars that form the shape of the Bar & Shield logo on the fairing, tank, side covers and saddlebags. On select areas of the bodywork the dark carbon fiber weave pattern is revealed under a clearcoat finish. A white “Screamin’ Eagle” graphic flows from the fuel tank to the fairing sides. The engine is finished in Hog Black with Racing Orange highlights on the lifter tubes and rocker boxes. Wheels are finished in Gloss Black with red “CVO RR” laser etched in the rim of the front wheel.

An Exclusive Powertrain

A new Screamin’ Eagle® 131 V-Twin engine is the most-powerful Milwaukee-Eight® variant ever offered factory-installed in a production Harley-Davidson® model, rated at 153 peak horsepower (114 kW) at 5750 RPM and 150 lb. ft. (204 Nm) peak torque at 4750 RPM. Displacement of 131 cubic inches (2147cc) is the same as that of the engines powering the Harley-Davidson Factory Team competition Road Glide® motorcycles. Assembled by Harley-Davidson with Screamin’ Eagle® Stage IV components, the engine is tuned to produce abundant torque at low RPM with a camshaft profile and high-volume intake designed to carry that torque through a broad powerband, with redline elevated to a 6500 RPM. The Screamin’ Eagle® 131 engine is exclusive to the CVO Road Glide® RR model. Key features include:

· Screamin’ Eagle® Stage IV CNC ported cylinder heads feature fully CNC machined combustion chambers and ports. Intake (42mm) and exhaust (34mm) valves are 2mm larger than standard Milwaukee-Eight® valves for enhanced flow. Exhaust valves are fatigue-resistant Inconel. Multi-angle valve seats are fully blended to the ports and combustion chamber. The cylinder heads are liquid-cooled.

· The high-performance SE8-550 Camshaft with 0.550-inch valve lift offers increased flow at high RPM for maximum horsepower.

· A new race-inspired intake features a 68mm throttle body and a matching aluminum intake manifold to contribute to increased power output. The manifold is CNC machined to precisely match the intake ports for the smoothest possible air flow and shaped to minimize weight and to offer extra rider leg clearance. The engine breathes through a washable Screamin’ Eagle® High Flow air filter.

· These Screamin’ Eagle® internal components contribute to durability under extreme duty: Screamin’ Eagle® high-capacity valve lifters, Screamin’ Eagle® high-performance valve springs, Screamin’ Eagle® high-capacity inner camshaft bearing, and a Screamin’ Eagle® high volume oil pump. The 6.8 grams/second fuel injectors ensure adequate fuel flow at high RPM.

· A 30-tooth (30T) output sprocket provides a lower final drive ratio than the standard Road Glide® model 32-tooth sprocket (2.27:1 with 30T vs. 2.13:1 with 32T) to boost acceleration performance in every gear.

· The new Billet Clutch Basket designed by Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing is machined from U.S.-sourced high-strength 7075 aluminum with a MIL-SPEC anodized finish. It is designed with precision tolerances to reduce wear and lost motion from friction disk chatter.

· New billet aluminum powertrain covers reduce weight and have the same machined finish as covers on the Factory Race Team race bikes. The primary cover is shaped to provide additional lean angle and features added cooling fins.

· The new Akrapovič designed for Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Full Titanium Exhaust features lightweight titanium 2-into-1 header pipes, carbon fiber exhaust shields and titanium muffler shells with titanium fiber end caps. This exhaust system is more than 10 pounds lighter than a standard Milwaukee-Eight® exhaust. The high-flow design unlocks engine performance while maintaining noise and 50-state emissions compliance. Exhaust tone and level are enhanced to produce an exhilarating sound, especially on acceleration.

· A new Screamin’ Eagle® Racing King 6 Transmission has been battle-tested on Factory Race Team motorcycles and engineered for smooth shifting performance and durability. Key features include modified back-cut angles on the shift dogs to improve gear engagement and gears and shafts shot peened for strength.

High-Performance Suspension

The CVO Road Glide® RR motorcycle is equipped with fully adjustable premium race-spec front and rear suspension.

· Inverted 43mm Öhlins FGR 253 Hypersport Superbike forks were developed in partnership between Öhlins and Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing to offer no-compromise front suspension performance for confidence-inspiring handling. Rebound/compression damping is adjustable. Pre-load adjustment may be used to set suspension height for rider weight and desired vehicle attitude. Micro-polished inner tubes reduce friction for smooth performance, while pressurized TTX25 cartridge technology maintains damping at higher frequency to improve control, noticed by the rider as improved tire contact feel. Billet aluminum triple clamps are designed to maximize the performance of the Öhlins FGR 253 fork and use race-proven geometry combined with enhanced strength-to-weight ratio.

· Dual outboard Screamin’ Eagle® Öhlins Remote Reservoir shock absorbers feature the same technology developed for the race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing Road Glide® bikes. Rebound/compression damping is adjustable. Pre-load adjustment may be used to set suspension height for rider weight and desired vehicle attitude. Total shock length of 14 inches (375mm) is adjustable on the rear eye +8/-2 mm. Remote reservoirs exposed between the rear fender and each saddlebag keep the shock oil and gas separated to maintain shock performance under demanding conditions.

· Front and rear suspension is designed to raise the motorcycle ride height by 2 inches which contributes to an increase in lean angle to facilitate aggressive cornering. Lean angle is 36 degrees right and 35 degrees left, an increase of 3 degrees left and right compared to the CVO Road Glide® ST model.

· A new billet aluminum swingarm designed for Harley-Davidson® Factory Team race motorcycles using advanced computer-aided engineering techniques including topology optimization is 10 percent stiffer and 10 percent lighter than the steel Road Glide model swingarm to contribute to precise handling in dynamic situations. The swingarm is CNC machined from a 220-pound billet of 6061 aluminum to a state-of-the-art 18-pound performance part.

Premium Braking Components

Brembo braking components provide outstanding braking feel and performance for added rider confidence.

Brembo GP4-RX CNC front calipers combine unrivaled stability with near-MotoGP levels of braking performance. The 2-piece calipers are machined from a solid block of billet aluminum, delivering outstanding strength and tighter machining tolerances. Brake pads slide within the caliper body on special guides machined directly into the caliper body, eliminating pad pins. The GP4-RX features a nickel-plated finish adapted from MotoGP which enables enhanced heat dissipation. The hydraulic system has been painstakingly optimized with four 32mm-diameter pistons for increased braking power, consistent performance and optimized feel. The front brake hand lever is adjustable for reach to best match rider hand size or preference.

Brembo T-Drive front rotors have the same fixing concepts used by the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team motorcycles. Brembo’s patented T-drive system was developed for the highest level of racing at WSBK and utilizes a fully floating action in both radial and axial directions to transfer torque more efficiently between the contact area of the rotor and carrier and optimized weight reduction. These revolutionary 320 mm rotors have an increased thickness (5.5 mm) and a premium stainless steel braking surface.

The single rear brake features a four-piston Brembo caliper. The rear brake rotor diameter is 300mm.

Weight Reduction

Racers understand that every pound of weight reduction is like free horsepower and can also contribute to improved fuel economy, braking performance and handling. Through the use of alternate materials and emphasizing performance features the CVO Road Glide RR model has an as shipped weight of 750 pounds, 50 pounds less that the CVO Road Glide ST model.

· Mufflers and exhaust headers are formed of lightweight titanium. Exhaust shields are lightweight carbon fiber.

· Lightweight woven carbon fiber composite is used to form the front and rear fenders, side covers, tank console, fork nacelle, and radiator shroud. Further enhancing durability, an industry first carbon fiber and Kevlar layup is used on the front faring, saddlebags, and lids.

· Billet aluminum foot peg mid controls replace traditional footboards.

· Lightweight billet aluminum powertrain covers replace standard cast covers.

· A lightweight billet aluminum swingarm replaces the standard steel swingarm.

· Lightweight Brembo T-Drive front brake rotors replace standard brake rotors.

Rider Safety Enhancements

The CVO Road Glide® RR model is equipped with Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, a collection of technologies designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or adverse road conditions. Rider Safety Enhancements are designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration and braking. The systems are electronic and utilize the latest chassis control, electronic brake control and powertrain technology. The elements of Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson include:

Cornering Electronically Linked Brakes (C-ELB)

Cornering ABS (C-ABS)

Cornering Traction Control (C-TCS) with modes

Cornering Drag Torque Slip Control (C-DSCS)

Vehicle Hold Control (VHC)

Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)

Ride Modes

The CVO Road Glide® RR model features selectable Ride Modes that electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle and the level of technology intervention. Each Ride Mode consists of a specific combination of power delivery, engine braking, Cornering Antilock Braking System (C-ABS) and Cornering Traction Control System (C-TCS) settings. The rider may use the hand control MODE button to change the active ride mode while riding the motorcycle or when stopped. A unique icon for each mode appears on the display when that mode has been selected.

· Road Mode: Intended for daily use, Road Mode delivers balanced performance. This mode offers less-aggressive throttle response and less mid-range engine power than Sport Mode, with a balanced level of C-ABS and C-TCS intervention.

· Sport Mode: In Sport Mode the rider can experience the full performance potential of the motorcycle in a direct and precise manner, with full power and the quickest throttle response. C-TCS is set to a lower level of intervention, and engine braking is increased.

· Rain Mode: This mode is designed to give the rider greater confidence when riding in the rain or when traction is otherwise compromised. Throttle response and power output are programmed to significantly restrain the rate of acceleration, engine braking is limited, and the highest levels of C-ABS and C-TCS intervention are selected.

· Four Custom Modes: Within each Custom Mode the customer may use the touch screen to select their combined preference of engine torque delivery characteristics, engine braking, throttle response, and C-TCS and C-ABS intervention, within specific ranges.

· Track Mode: Designed specifically for “track day” riding on a dry track/closed course, this mode was developed with input from Harley-Davidson® Factory Team racer Kyle Wyman with the desired throttle mapping for best feel of torque delivery in a racetrack environment. This gives the rider smooth, repeatable throttle response on corner exits. Full power performance is on tap. Rear-to-front electronically linked braking is disabled to allow independent rear trail braking capability and consistent front lever feel. C-ABS and C-TCS intervention are set to a reduced level of intervention to allow greater rider control.

· Track Plus Mode: This mode is intended for experienced riders who want maximum control on a dry track/closed course with benefits of Rider Safety Enhancements working in the background. In addition to the specially tuned power delivery of Track Mode, Track Plus Mode disables electronically linked braking entirely, giving full independent control of both brakes to the rider. The C-ABS setting has an even further reduced level of intervention which permits a significantly higher level of rear wheel slip under braking or aggressive downshifts to further enhance rider control in a track setting. The C-TCS intervention is set to its lowest level to maximize both straight line and cornering acceleration and put control in the rider’s throttle hand.

Performance Ergonomics

Ergonomics have been designed to place the rider in a position that combines comfort with confident control in any street or track riding environment.

· New mid-mount foot controls replace footboards to maintain the increased lean angle achieved by elevating the ride height. Pegs are positioned to optimize the rider triangle and to make shifting and braking more efficient during dynamic riding. Foot pegs and controls are machined from billet aluminum to reduce weight and provide race-ready style.

· A new race-inspired solo seat places the rider in an athletic riding position, enhances vehicle control by optimizing rider center of mass and improves the rider triangle related to the mid-controls. The seating position is elevated by approximately 1 inch to facilitate a comfortable rider triangle distance to the mid-mount foot controls. A raised rear bolster helps hold the rider in position during aggressive riding. The padded pommel on the rear of the fuel tank is a racing-derived feature which allows the rider to brace their inner thigh under hard braking and support themselves while using body position to enhance cornering control. Laden seat height is 28.9 in. (735 mm) which is 2.3 inches higher than the Road Glide® model.

· A Moto Bar handlebar and 6-inch riser put the rider in a more upright position compared to the Road Glide® model. The riser is 2.2 inches taller than the Road Glide® riser, while the Moto Bar handlebar has a much flatter bend than the Road Glide® handlebar.

High-Performance Audio

The CVO Road Glide® RR model debuts a new premium, high-performance Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® Stage III audio system. Two fairing-mounted Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® Stage III 3-way, 6.5-inch speakers are rated for 250 watts RMS power handling per speaker. The system is powered by a Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® 4-channel, 500-watt RMS amplifier. The speakers feature Racing Orange Stage III trim rings and grille inserts.

Additional Features

· The aggressive and aerodynamic Road Glide® model fairing incorporates a brilliant LED headlamp and LED signature lighting with turn signal lamps seamlessly integrated within the outer portions of the signature lighting, eliminating separate signals for a cleaner over-all look. The inner fairing incorporates left and right-side media storage compartments, each sized to hold most current mobile phones in a case. The right compartment is equipped with a USB-C connection point.

· A 5-inch dark smoke Wind Splitter windshield offers the ideal combination of effective airflow management and performance styling.

· A suite of infotainment technology, powered by the exclusive Skyline OS, is presented on a 12.3-inch (diagonal measurement) touchscreen display. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® enable wireless connection to a rider’s device or headset for wireless Apple CarPlay and to provide live services such as traffic, weather and map updates. Embedded navigation is factory-activated. The CVO Road Glide® RR ships with a single wireless headset. Over The Air (OTA) software updates may be downloaded through the Skyline OS when the system is connected to a Wi-Fi network.

· Hard-shell saddlebags offer 2.42 cubic feet of lockable luggage capacity.

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of Harley-Davidson® Grand American Touring, Sport, Adventure Touring, Cruiser and Trike motorcycles, Harley-Davidson Certified pre-owned motorcycles, Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories, Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® apparel and accessories, and Harley-Davidson Financial Services.

About Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com

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