2021 Australian Historic Road Racing Championships rescheduled
The Mount Gambier Motor Cycle Club will now host the 2021 Australian Historic Road Racing Championships, which have been rescheduled for April 1-3, 2022 at South Australia’s McNamara Park Raceway due to Covid.
2019 AHRRC
The Championships had previously been postponed twice due to border restrictions, and the club is now planning for the Championships to be bigger than ever and a true celebration of historic racing.
The renowned Mount Gambier circuit is 2.41 km long and is a mix of technically demanding slow and fast turns over undulating terrain, designed and dedicated solely to motorcycle road racing.
The track runs in a clockwise direction with 12 turns ranging from the sharp hairpin at turn 1 to the fast and sweeping turn 8.
The Mount Gambier Motor Cycle Club thanked everyone for their patience through these trying times, especially those that have already booked their entry, as well as Motorcycling Australia for their help in making the event possible. Dates for the 2022 AHRR will be released at a later date.
Rider’s Briefing at the AHRRC
Entries are now open via Ridernet and will close on February 11, 2022.
2021 AHRRC Classes of Competition
Period 1 Ultra Lightweight up to 125cc
Period 1 Lightweight 132cc to 250cc
Period 1 Junior 263cc to 350cc
Period 1 Senior 368cc to 500cc
Period 1 Unlimited 526 to 1300cc
Period 1 Sidecar up to 1300cc
Period 2 Junior up to 350cc
Period 2 Senior up to 500cc
Period 2 Unlimited 368 to 1300cc
Period 2 Sidecar up to 1300cc
Period 3 Ultra Lightweight up to 125cc
Period 3 Lightweight 132cc t0 250cc
Period 3 Junior 263cc to 350cc
Period 3 Senior 368cc to 500cc
Period 3 Unlimited 526 to 1300cc
Period 3 Sidecar up to 1300cc
Period 3 Formula 700- 526cc to 700cc
Note: This class is for push rod engines only and there is no capacity tolerance.
Period 4 Ultra Lightweight up to 125cc
Period 4 Lightweight 132cc t0 250cc
Period 4 Junior 263cc to 350cc
Period 4 Senior 368cc to 500cc
Period 4 Unlimited 526 to 1300cc
Period 4 Sidecar up to 1300cc
Period 4 Formula 750 -526cc to 750cc
Period 5 Ultra Lightweight up to 125cc
Period 5 Lightweight 132cc t0 250cc
Period 5 Junior 263cc to 350cc
Period 5 Senior 368cc to 500cc
Period 5 Unlimited 526 to 1300cc
Period 5 Sidecar up to 1300cc
Period 5 Formula 750 526cc to 750cc
Period 6 Ultra Lightweight up to 125cc
Period 6 Lightweight 132cc t0 250cc
Period 6 Senior 263cc to 500cc
Period 6 Formula 750 526cc to 750cc four cylinder & 750cc to 1000cc two cylinder
Harley-Davidson and Zhejiang Qianjiang, MV Agusta and QJ-Motor Co., KTM, and CFMoto – many major manufacturers have established partnerships with companies in China so the latter can facilitate manufacture and sales of motorcycles in its home market and other parts of Asia. Another prominent manufacturer with a partner in China is Suzuki; it’s tied up with the Haojue brand specializing in small-capacity motorcycles and scooters.
Last year, the company launched its DR300 in China, and this motorcycle acted as the foundation for the Suzuki GSX-S300 street-naked. RideApart has now reported that Haouje has used the DR300 platform and given it an overhaul. Called the XCR300, the motorcycle is essentially a DR300 with a short windscreen, a taller handlebar, and a more relaxed riding triangle with neutral-set footpegs. The XCR300 made its debut earlier this month at the China International Motorcycle Expo.
Powering the XCR300 is a 298cc, parallel-twin engine that makes about 30hp. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox that works alongside a slipper clutch. Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm USD fork and monoshock, both sourced from KYB.
Visually, the XCR300 draws inspiration from the Suzuki GSX-S model range. It features aggressive styling with sharp lines and a split LED headlight. The short windscreen looks like more of a cosmetic update than a functional one to reduce windblast, but we’ll have to wait until someone rides the bike to be sure of it. The bike also features a single-seat design and grab rails, indicating it’s been designed with two occupants in mind.
Haojue hasn’t announced pricing for the XCR300 or availability in its home market. However, a launch at the start of 2022 seems likely. Because the DR300 made its way overseas as the GSX-S300, we could see Suzuki follow a similar approach with this model as well. If it does, the XCR300 will find itself in a heavily competitive segment that comprises other popular motorcycles like the Benelli TNT 302S and CFMoto 300NK.
MotoStars has made the difficult decision to reschedule the 2021 MotoStars Nationals which will feature the Australian Supermoto Championships and Australian Junior Road Racing Championships, with Covid continuing to create challenges for motorcycle events in Australia.
In order to prevent the cancellation of the “2021” MotoStars Nationals, the two-round championship has been moved to January and will be held at the Whitsunday Moto Sports Club Complex, in Proserpine, Queensland. The event will run under the same MoMS rules and regulations that were in place for the originally scheduled event in December.
Australian Supermoto Championship was sponsored by MotoStars from 2019 to 2020
Due to the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, and the re-scheduling of the ASBK at Phillip Island, the changes presented a chance to run the event as originally planned- a double header holiday – but in January rather than December.
Round 1 will be held January 8-9, under twilight race conditions, with practice and qualifying during the day, and finals racing at night. The following week, Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th of January, the final round will be run at the same venue, only in reverse direction, presenting an all new challenge for the riders and teams competing.
MotoStars will also run a training and coaching day on each day prior to the race weekends themselves, offering coaching, practice and licence endorsements where required.
Damian Cudlin – MotoStars Director
“The constant changes of the landscape due to COVID-19 forced us to push the event forward to avoid any clashes, but the chance to visit a beautiful part of the world, race the whole series in the one trip, and enjoy a little holiday in between is still there for us in January. I think that most people will be looking forward to a holiday after this lockdown period and January seems the most likely time we can all travel without restrictions!”
News regarding the 2022 MotoStars Nationals will also be released soon, with the calendar yet to be officially announced.
All currently entered riders for the 2021 season will have their entries automatically transferred to the new date. Should any rider wish to withdraw from the rescheduled event, they can contact MotoStars to process a refund.
MXGP 2021 MXGP of France, Lacapelle Marival – Round 12
Lacapelle Marival held Round 12 of the MXGP Championship over the weekend, as riders duked it out in France for top honours, with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing topping both classes. Jeffrey Herlings took the narrowest of wins from Romain Febvre, with the two tied on points, while Tom Vialle swept the two MX2 races, although Renaux retains a healthy lead.
Herlings took top honours, despite tying on points with Romain Febvre
Top Australian was Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton in securing a strong fourth place overall result in the MX2 class. Starting race one in the best way possible, Beaton rounded the first turn up front and quickly moved into fourth place during the opening lap. With his sights set on the podium, the Australian then worked his way around Jago Geerts on lap five before enjoying a largely untroubled moto to secure a deserved third-place finish.
In race two, Beaton didn’t quite secure the start needed for a repeat podium finish. Able to make several passes through the early laps and move into sixth, he went on to finish right behind the battle for the top-five, placing sixth in the moto for fourth overall.
Jed Beaton – P4
“I guess overall It was a good day but on this track you really needed two good starts. I got a great one in race one and brought it home for third so that was pretty decent, and I was happy with my riding. I didn’t quite execute the same start in race two but I was able to make a few passes early on and ended up sixth. Not too bad but with a better start I know I could have been much closer to the front. It’s a little frustrating but now it’s onto Spain next weekend.”
Jed Beaton
Bike It MTX Kawasaki’s Wilson Todd once more showed top ten pace and was poised for his best-ever result until an incident in race two robbed him of his just rewards. He wasn’t able to capitalise completely on his seventh place in Qualifying as he lost traction momentarily leaving the start in race one but used the benefit of an inside gate to emerge top ten from turn one and advance two further positions before the end of the moto.
A fifth-placed start in race two augured well and he kept the leaders in sight until he was pushed into the trackside fence. Rejoining the race twenty-second he was quickly back to sixteenth but, faced with a deficit of eight seconds to the next rider, that was also his position at the finish. He was eleventh overall in the GP, just missing another top-ten GP finish on the tie-break.
Wilson Todd – P11
“Something happened at the start of race one but I had the inside at turn one and came out round about tenth. I settled in through the opening laps and then I closed down Roan and got round him. I went after Renaux too but I got held up and he was gone. I got a good start the second race but I ended up on my head. I’m looking to finish top ten every moto when I can and move into the top five. It all depends on getting out of the gate and how I’m gelling with the track.“
Wilson Todd
MXGP of France Highlights
MXGP Race 1
In the opening MXGP race, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings who was fastest out of the gate and went on to claim the Fox Holeshot. Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jeremy Seewer was second ahead of Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre and Glenn Coldenhoff of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing.
Jeffrey Herlings
Team HRC’s Tim Gajser struggled in the start and started the race in around 10th position.
While Herlings led, Febvre was quick to get around Seewer, as he set his sights on the Bullet. Meanwhile a little further behind there was Jeremy Van Horebeek of SDM Corse Racing Team who was having a great ride in fifth place, ahead of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli.
Gajser was pushing his way up the field as he found himself in eighth place behind Arnaud Tonus of Hostettler Yamaha Racing. The Slovenian then made a small mistake which cost him two positions, which meant he had to start all over again.
Tim Gajser
Meanwhile, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado was keen to salvage some important championship points as he fought inside the top 20. It was clear that the Spaniard was struggling after the crash in Germany as he only managed to come back to 16th.
Herlings continued to lead, but it was clear that Febvre was not going to let him have the win. The Frenchman set the fastest lap of the race as he worked away at the gap and before he knew it, he was on the rear wheel of the factory KTM rider.
Romain Febvre
On lap eight we saw Febvre take over the lead, as Herlings dropped to second. Meanwhile Seewer was still third followed by Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’s Pauls Jonass.
Romain Febvre
Gajser then managed to pass Gebben Van Venrooy Yamaha Racing’s Calvin Vlaanderen to move into eighth and then worked hard to get around Tonus too. Also making moves was Cairoli who finally found an opportunity to get past Van Horebeek, as Gajser also caught onto the Beta rider.
Unfortunately, Van Horebeek did not finish the race as he crashed while under pressure from Gajser.
In the final few laps, we saw Herlings step it up, as he caught onto the back wheel of Febvre, and it was game on for the win! Febvre did a great job to manage under immense pressure from the Dutchman and his efforts paid off as he was victorious in the first race. Herlings was second as Seewer held on to third.
MXGP Race 2
In race two, it was Cairoli who took the Fox Holeshot from Herlings, Febvre, Gajser and Seewer.
Tony Cairoli took the holeshot in Race 2
Cairoli’s time in the lead did not last long as the Italian made a mistake which allowed both Herlings and Febvre through. Herlings then controlled the race by 2.835 seconds but that gap came down quite quickly as Febvre was on a charge.
Gajser then caught onto the back of Cairoli. The Slovenian needed to make the pass, not only for the championship points, but also for a spot on the podium.
Tim Gajser
Herlings then has a small bobble which played into the hands of Febvre who wasted no time to get out in front. The Frenchman was the new race leader on lap eight and immediately stretched out his lead to 3.614 seconds.
Gajser continued to search for a way past Cairoli, as Herlings was looking to make up for lost ground. And he did just that. As Herlings closed in, Febvre started to make little errors which proved to be costly in the end as Herlings was able to pass the Frenchman on lap 16.
Romain Febvre
The factory Kawasaki rider tried to respond but it was not enough, as Herlings took the win with Febvre second and Gajser third. And that’s exactly how the riders finished on the podium, with Herlings taking a 95th career Grand Prix victory.
Herlings is now back in the driving seat of the MXGP championship standings as he leads the way with 460 points, while Febvre moves to second and is just six points behind, while Gajser drops to third on 450 points.
Jeffrey Herlings – P1
“Actually today was pretty good. I raced here three years ago so I definitely knew Romain was going to be good today and that I had to step up my game. This morning you could see that nobody could really match my speed. We were two seconds ahead of the 3rd. Going into the race I knew I had to bring my A game. Actually, the set up I had for race one was pretty difficult. I was struggling a bit and got arm pump. Then I just could not hold Romain and he made a pass. I had to let him go and try to close him at the end of the race but it was too late and I could not put a good fight anymore. He won fair and square. Second race, I had a good start again. He beat me on the first turn, then I managed to pass him on the second or third turn. I was trying to pull away, but it was tough with his speed. I think I had a 2 or 3 second gap, then I had an issue. I’m lucky I did not lose much time and kept the 3 second gap. I managed to win this race and win the overall and looking forward to next weekend.”
Jeffrey Herlings
Romain Febvre – P2
“I was happy to win the first race, especially because I haven’t won a race in a long time so I am happy with that. Our speed with Jeffrey was really fast which made the second race really challenging because we were again 1 and 2 after a few turns, I knew it was going to be challenging until the end. Like he said, he made a mistake in the turn which allowed me to go around him and pass him. I tried to make a few fast laps to make a gap. At the end, I wasn’t that fast in a few sectors, then he caught me. Obviously, I was disappointed because I almost won at home, but anyway it’s good to be on the podium. It’s great to see a lot of fans out there. They deserved the win but I could not make it happen. We are really close in the championship which means every weekend you can take the red plate, which for me is fine. Hopefully we keep it like this until the end and we have to find something in the pocket in the few last rounds.”
Romain Febvre
Tim Gajser – P3
“It was a bit of a frustrating day here, despite ending up on the podium. I knew coming in that starts would be crucial because the track is so tight and narrow in a lot of places, and unfortunately I wasn’t able to get out of the gate well enough in either moto. In the first race I was around 10th place early on and it was just really difficult to make any passes, it was hard to find a good rhythm, but eventually I worked my way through to sixth, which was all I could manage. In race two, my start was a bit better but I couldn’t latch onto the top two and battle with them and so once I got into third, I was too far behind to catch them. Still, there are a lot races to come and I will now focus on next weekend when we head to Spain.”
Tim Gajser
Jeremy Seewer – P4
“I was quite close to a podium. I had two really good starts, but I had Jeffrey (Herlings) come somehow into my line and then into a scary straight. I ended up losing some spots to the freight train behind me. So, that was a bit unlucky. Overall, P.3 in moto one was a massive comeback, two good starts and a good timed practice. To sum it up, it was one of my best GPs of the whole year. I am starting to enjoy it again. I had a lot of fun riding my bike today. I am on my way up. I still have energy, and I feel like I am becoming more fresh. There are still plenty of GPs left and I just want to keep moving up and hopefully be back on the podium soon.”
Jeremy Seewer
Tony Cairoli – P5
“It seemed better today compared to last week in Germany but I’m still struggling a lot. It’s four weeks now since I’ve been able to ride during the week. I didn’t do much before Sardinia because I knew it would be a heavy GP but then I crashed and haven’t trained since. I cannot do much cardio either because the ribs hurt. It’s hard to keep my condition like it was before. Today I was 5th in the first moto and could push until the end but in the second I started to suffer. It was good to get the holeshot in the second and be 3rd. I was riding a bit conservative but Gajser was chasing me a lot and I started to get cramps in my side and back. I was hard to hang-on anymore. It was a shame to be 4th because another few laps would have given me the podium. I have to accept that things are not easy for me at the moment in this condition and with the training. I can only hope that this week I can do a bit more than I could recently and regain some more speed with the bike.”
Tony Cairoli
Pauls Jonass – P6
“On paper today was a good day overall, although a fourth and a fifth for sixth is a little bit difficult to accept! I felt pretty strong on the bike in both races and the set up that we have on my MC 450F is working really well, it’s just that I’m missing that last little bit of speed early on in the races. Today was an improvement in that respect from last week, though, so it was actually a pretty decent day with decent points, and we still have a lot of racing to go in the championship.”
Pauls Jonass
Thomas Kjer Olsen – P7
“I’m really happy with my results today and I’m also a little bit relieved as well. It’s been a little bit up and down this season but today showed that I can do it. I’ve been making steps forward in recent weeks and it all came together today. I qualified well, which gave me a good gate pick, and that meant I could start up front and overall it was just a great day all round.”
Thomas Kjer Olsen
Glenn Coldenhoff – P8
“I felt pretty good this morning. The times were really close in Timed Practice and I was eighth, which was still good for the start position. In the first race, I got a really good start, but there was a bit a of chaos in front of me with riders changing lines, and then I hit a kicker as well and went down while in fifth position. On a track like this, it’s very difficult to come through the pack, especially with the times so close to each other. In the second race, I wasn’t really feeling it. I stayed way too long behind the riders in front of me. I found some better lines in the end, but only finished eighth. 13-8 are disappointing results. We will work towards Spain.”
Jorge Prado – P14
“Coming here this weekend I didn’t know if I could even ride the bike but I had the mentality to try. I’m in the fight for the championship and to get some points is something. After these two motos the cut looks OK and it’s not worse. It was a rough day because I didn’t feel there was much strength in the arm. I didn’t get a good lap in Timed Practice, so I didn’t get a good gate and then actually touched the gate for both starts with my front wheel! I did what I could, and I began to feel better in the second moto. We got some valuable points and now we’ll get ready for the home GP because I want to bounce back as soon as possible.”
The fifth and penultimate round of the 2021 EnduroGP championship ran over the weekend in Portugal, with Josep Garcia taking a commanding victory as riders returned from their summer break.
Josep Garcia
Day 1 saw Garcia claim both EnduroGP and Enduro2 victories, while Roni Kytonen topped the Juniors and Albin Norrbin took his sixth consecutive Youth win.
Day 2 saw a repeat performance with Garcia wrapping up his round win with both EnduroGP victories, while Albin Norrbin became the first World Champion of the season, claiming the Enduro Youth title with another win.
Australia’s Wil Ruprecht finished eighth overall and fourth E2 rider on Day 1, while Andrew Wilksch was 19th and fourth E3 rider. Wilksch took 22nd on Day 2, and seventh E3 rider. Ruprecht wasn’t classified Day 2.
The 2021 Borilli FIM EnduroGP World Championship concludes with the sixth and final round next weekend in Langeac, France, October 15-17.
Josep Garcia celebrates the round win
Day 1 – EnduroGP
After an extended summer break, the Borilli FIM EnduroGP World Championship returned to action in Santiago do Cacem in southern Portugal and from the word go the action came thick and fast as riders went head-to-head in the Friday evening AKRAPOVIC Super Test.
Britain’s Joe Wootton (Husqvarna) lead the way for the majority of the night until he was bested by the final two riders to hit the track – Brad Freeman (Beta) and Josep Garcia (KTM). Both were almost inseparable, but it was Freeman who narrowly took the win by just one tenth of a second.
However, knowing the sandy special tests would be to his liking, Garcia was quick to take over. Winning the opening NERVE by JUST1 Extreme Test, the Spaniard then topped the next five special tests to further extend his lead. Signing his day off with the fastest times in both the final CHAMPION Enduro Test and ACERBIS Cross Test, he won the day by an impressive 54 seconds.
Josep Garcia
Behind him the fight for the remainder of the podium positions was closely contested. Freeman faced a strong challenge from Italy’s Andrea Verona (GASGAS), with Britain’s Nathan Watson (Honda) and Steve Holcombe (Beta) both within striking distance. With four seconds to his advantage, Freeman held on to the runner-up position, with Verona taking third.
Watson made a welcome return to EnduroGP action for fourth, while defending EnduroGP champion Holcombe showed he’s returning to form following a difficult season plagued with injury and illness with fifth.
Josep Garcia
“I felt great on the bike today. I knew the conditions would suit me out there, so my goal this morning was to push hard from the beginning and see how I got on. I managed to build up a good lead and from midway I managed it as best I could. I’m excited for tomorrow now.”
Josep Garcia topped the Day 1 EnduroGP podium from Brad Freeman and Andrea Verona
Enduro1
Locked in a battle for the overall runner-up result, Andrea Verona (GASGAS) pulled clear of his Enduro1 classmates to take the win. A strong ride throughout the day saw him build up a comfortable 40-second margin of victory.
Andrea Verona
For Davide Guarneri (Fantic), the veteran Italian wasn’t able to match the pace of his countryman from the word go. Losing time in the morning, he came on stronger in the afternoon, taking two special test wins. For Sunday, he’ll look to come out swinging against Verona early on.
Ensuring an Italian sweep of the podium, Matteo Cavallo (TM) took third, with France’s Christophe Charlier (Beta) and Italy’s Samuele Bernardini (Honda) completing the top five.
Enduro2
Saturday was a day to savour for Garcia, with the Spaniard also claiming Enduro2 honours to take over the championship lead. With a dominant ride in Enduro2, the KTM rider was almost untouchable, winning by one minute and 22 seconds.
Josep Garcia
After a couple of years absence, Nathan Watson (Honda) wasted no time getting back into the swing of EnduroGP action. Second on day one and edging out Holcombe by just six seconds, the addition of Watson to the series in these closing stages of the championship certainly added excitement.
Behind the top three of Garcia, Watson and Holcombe, Australia’s Will Ruprecht (TM) was fourth – losing his championship lead to Garcia in the process. The Australian will need to fight back on Sunday to keep those title hopes alive. Only six seconds behind Ruprecht, Italy’s Thomas Oldrati (Honda) placed fifth.
Enduro3
The opening day of the TERRA ÚNICA GP of Portugal marked another Enduro3 class win for Beta’s Brad Freeman. Although not the most commanding of Enduro3 victories seen from Freeman this season, he still did more than enough to secure his ninth consecutive win.
Brad Freeman
Feeling quite at home in the soft sandy terrain, Spain’s Jaume Betriu (KTM) ended his day was runner-up to Freeman. Sherco’s Danny McCanney put in a solid day to take third, closing the gap to Betriu to 10 seconds come the end of the final test. Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna) was fourth and Andrew Wilksch (Husqvarna) took fifth.
Enduro Junior
The Enduro Junior class saw Roni Kytonen (Honda) come to the fore to secure his first victory of the season. After an early lead by Lorenzo Macoritto (TM), Kytonen topped the second NERVE by JUST1 Extreme Test to take over the proceedings. Continuing to fend off attacks from title favourites Matteo Pavoni (TM) and Macoritto, the Finn took a well-earned win.
Roni Kytonen
Enduro Youth
The racing was tight in Enduro Youth with Fantic riders Albin Norrbin and Kevin Cristino leading the way. Norrbin looked strong all day, but with Cristino able to match his pace, he couldn’t relax.
With just five seconds separating the duo – in Norrbin’s favour – it’s sure to be another tight affair tomorrow. Behind them, Samuli Pujkainen (TM) was third, with Harry Edmondson (Fantic) and Federico Rocha (TM) rounding out the top five.
EnduroGP of Portugal Day 1 – Top 20
Pos
Rider
Nat
Cat
Moto
Total
Gap
1
GARCIA Josep
ESP
E2
KTM
52:29.53
–
2
FREEMAN Brad
GBR
E3
Beta
53:23.99
+54.46
3
VERONA Andrea
ITA
E1
Gas Gas
53:28.49
+58.96
4
WATSON Nathan
GBR
E2
Honda
53:52.17
+1:22.64
5
HOLCOMBE Steve
GBR
E2
Beta
53:58.80
+1:29.27
6
GUARNERI Davide
ITA
E1
Fantic
54:09.34
+1:39.81
7
BETRIU ARMENGOL Jaume
ESP
E3
KTM
54:12.50
+1:42.97
8
RUPRECHT Wil
AUS
E2
TM
54:21.77
+1:52.24
9
MCCANNEY Daniel
GBR
E3
Sherco
54:23.04
+1:53.51
10
OLDRATI Thomas
ITA
E2
Honda
54:27.90
+1:58.37
11
MACDONALD Hamish
NZL
E2
Sherco
54:28.53
+1:59.00
12
MCCANNEY Jamie
GBR
E3
Husqvarna
54:44.29
+2:14.76
13
CAVALLO Matteo
ITA
E1
TM
54:50.04
+2:20.51
14
WOOTTON Joe
GBR
E2
Husqvarna
54:56.60
+2:27.07
15
CHARLIER Christophe
FRA
E1
Beta
55:06.22
+2:36.69
16
REMES Eero
FIN
E2
TM
55:13.58
+2:44.05
17
BERNARDINI Samuele
ITA
E1
Honda
55:13.72
+2:44.19
18
SORECA Davide
ITA
E1
Husqvarna
55:14.11
+2:44.58
19
WILKSCH Andrew
AUS
E3
Husqvarna
55:14.54
+2:45.01
20
MAGAIN Antoine
BEL
E1
Sherco
55:49.78
+3:20.25
Day 2 – EnduroGP
After the previous day’s dominant EnduroGP class win by Garcia, the KTM rider was forced to work much harder for the top step of the podium on day two.
Although off to a flying start by winning the opening NERVE by JUST1 Extreme Test, he faced a much tougher challenge from points leader Brad Freeman (Beta) throughout the day. The British rider was determined not to allow the Spaniard to gain any early advantage and piled on the pressure immediately.
At the end of the second Extreme Test on lap two, the duo were separated by less than one second, as Freeman eyed up the race lead. But Garcia was determined to hold him at bay and answered back by topping the CHAMPION Enduro Test. Freeman responded with the quickest time in the following ACERBIS Cross Test and as they began the final lap Garcia’s lead was just three seconds.
Josep Garcia dominated both days of the EnduroGP of Portugal relevating Freeman and Watson to the minor podium places Day 2 – Round 5
A mistake by the Spaniard in the final Extreme Test allowed Freeman to momentarily lead, but Garcia fought back by winning the final two tests to take a hard-earned EnduroGP class win. With just two days remaining in this year’s title chase, Freeman now holds a 16-point lead over Garcia, setting up an exciting finale in France next weekend.
Brad Freeman
“I was a bit bummed out with yesterday’s result, so I wanted to bring the pace to Josep today and I managed that. I would have loved to have got the win, but it was a great battle all day. Props to him on the win, but I hope I can turn the tables on him in France!”
Brad Freeman
Behind the top two, Nathan Watson (Honda) proved his day one form was no fluke as he upped his speed to claim a podium result with third. The Brit, although ending his day 30 seconds behind Freeman, did repeatedly match the leading duo for pace throughout the day and could prove a danger man in France.
Italy’s Andrea Verona (GASGAS) raced his way to fourth, with Davide Guarneri (Fantic) completing the top five.
Enduro1
After a strong win on day one, Andrea Verona (GASGAS) faced much stiffer competition for victory on day two.
Much more in tune with the tests, Davide Guarneri (Fantic) pushed his championship rival hard. Swapping test wins, Verona just held on by two seconds to top the podium.
Andrea Verona
“It’s been a tough two days in Portugal, but to get two Enduro1 class wins and some good overall results in EnduroGP has been great – just what I’d hoped for ahead of the final round of the championship next weekend. Overall, day one was a good one for me. I made a few mistakes on the first two laps, but I managed to improve my speed throughout the day. I’m happy, it was fun to race in the sand. Day two was hard. I wasn’t feeling so strong after a tough opening day. But I kept pushing and finally on the final test of the day I was able to get the E1 class win. I needed to ride a little harder than I would normally, but I got the job done and I’m happy with the result. Now it’s onto France. Conditions will be very different, but I’m looking forward to the final round of the series.”
Andrea Verona
With the pace of the top two very high, Davide Soreca (Husqvarna) placed almost two minutes behind in third. However, it was a closely fought podium, with Matteo Cavallo (TM) just six seconds behind in fourth. Samuele Bernardini (Honda) was fifth to ensure an all-Italian Enduro1 top-five.
Enduro2
Capping off a great weekend at the office, Josep Garcia also claimed top honours in Enduro2. The Spaniard won all but one of the day’s nine special tests as he looked very much at home in the sandy terrain.
Josep Garcia
“The whole weekend has gone really well for me. My goal right from the beginning was to push as hard as I could and that’s what I did. I had a small crash on the first test on day one, but it didn’t slow me down too much. To take the win on Saturday by such a large margin felt really good. Day two was more of a fight – I had a crash in the first enduro test, but this time it lost me a few seconds although I was still fourth quickest. The fight with Brad (Freeman) went on all day – he was really fast today, and we were both pushing to the limit in every test. Finally, I was able to get the win, which is really good after such a tough day. I want to thank my team for their hard work this weekend as everything was perfect.”
The other test win went to Nathan Watson (Honda), with the Brit now looking settled into EnduroGP racing once again. Watson, although 33 seconds behind Garcia, was 44 seconds ahead of Beta’s Steve Holcombe in third.
Nathan Watson
Thomas Oldrati (Honda) enjoyed a solid day for fourth, with New Zealand’s Hamish MacDonald (Sherco) fifth.
Enduro3
With his battle for overall honours intense, Brad Freeman once again pulled clear of his Enduro 3 classmates to secure his 10th consecutive win of the season. With a commanding 38-point lead over Jaume Betriu (KTM) in second, Freeman looks set to secure the Enduro3 title with a day to spare next weekend in France.
Betriu was again the next best rider to Freeman in Enduro3 with another strong ride from the Spaniard. Marc Sola (Husqvarna) produced his best form of the season so far, to secure a spirited third. He edged out Sherco’s Daniel McCanney by less than three seconds for the final step of the podium. Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna) was fifth.
Enduro Junior
The Enduro Junior class saw championship leader Matteo Pavoni (TM) return to the top of the podium, securing an important victory over closest rival Lorenzo Macoritto (TM) heading into next week’s finale.
Matteo Pavoni
Day one winner Roni Kytonen (Honda) was unable to repeat his winning result and had to settle for third behind the two Italians. Leo Le Quere (Sherco) and Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) completed the top five.
Enduro Youth
Enduro Youth saw Sweden’s Albin Norrbin become the first world champion of 2021. Doing it in style, the Fantic rider claimed the title with a victory, to mark his eighth win of the season.
Albin Norrbin
“I’m so happy to have won the world title. It’s been a great season, maybe even better than I expected it to be. Today I just tried not to think about it and go for the win again and it worked out!”
Albin Norrbin wrapped up the Enduro Youth Championship with a round to spare
Kevin Cristino (Fantic) was again the closest rider to Norrbin with second, while Finland’s Samuli Puhakainen (TM) took third. Britain’s Harry Edmondson (Fantic) and Arvid Modin (Yamaha) were fourth and fifth respectively.
Suzuki claimed the Endurance World Championship crown overnight at the final round of the 2021 Endurance World Championship (EWC) at the Autodrom Most in the Czech Republic. Its factory-supported Yoshimura SERT Motul team delivered a faultless and calculated race.
Yoshimura SERT Motul Team
The 2021 season confirmed the superiority of the Suzuki brand in the FIM EWC. With two dominating victories at the 24 Heures Motos and the Bol d’Or 24 Hours in France, the official factory team started the fourth round, and season finale, with a comfortable lead in the championship standings. However, the team of Gregg Black, Xavier Siméon and Sylvain Guintoli, still needed to secure a good result to take the title at the 6 Hours of Most.
Yoshimura SERT Motul Team
The team had a strong start when the super-cool and fast-starting Black grabbed the holeshot from third position on the grid. Without taking any unnecessary risks but keeping a strong pressure on the team’s opponents in the championship, the French-English-born rider finished his stint by placing the Suzuki in third position as he handed over to Siméon.
The excellent and smooth work continued with Black’s teammates Siméon and Guintoli putting in consistently-fast stints. As the hours passed, some racing incidents upset the order of the leaderboard for the team’s nearest challengers, but Yoshimura SERT Motul made no mistakes.
Yoshimura SERT Motul Team – Gregg Black
The three riders settled into a strong and comfortable third position and kept a steady pace, right up until the chequered flag fell, to take the third step of the podium. In doing so, they won the 2021 FIM EWC title in convincing style with a total of 175.5 points, some 42.5 points ahead of second-placed BMW Motorrad.
Suzuki has now won a total of 20 Endurance World titles; 16 with the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team (SERT) and now the 2021 title with the new Yoshimura SERT Motul team. For the French-Japanese Yoshimura SERT Motul team, it is a crucial win in its first year of EWC participation.
Suzuki dominated the event as, in the Superstock category, the victory went to the GSX-R1000R #44 of No Limits Motor Team ridden by Luca Scassa, Alexis Masbou and Kevin Calia. The Italian team finished second in the FIM World Cup for Superstock entrants behind the BMRT 3D Maxxess Never Kawasaki squad.
Damien Saulnier – Team Manager
“We came to take the title and we hoped to get on the podium too. I have a thought for the #333 with whom we fought a great battle. At the finish there was emotion, joy and a deep gratitude for Yoshimura because this association led to impressive work. I am very proud of this team. We wanted to take as little risk as possible but still take our chances. The package with the bike, tyres and riders worked very well. Dominique Méliand entrusted me with the keys of the SERT and I am happy, in my position as team manager, to offer this team a second title.”
Yoshimura Suzuki Endurance Racing Team also won Bol d ‘Or this year
Yohei Kato – Team Director
“I am very pleased and honoured to win the championship in the first year of participation as the Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We vowed to fight in this Endurance World Championship on behalf of the Suzuki Factory Team. This season has proved to be a dream come true by winning two of the world’s most famous 24-hour races, namely, the 24 Heures of Le Mans and the Bol d’Or.
“This world championship title is the first for this new team and the 20th for Suzuki. Suzuki, Yoshimura and SERT will keep working together to improve the Suzuki GSX-R1000R into an even better package. The whole team will respect each other in the spirit of one for all, all for one. I think this is the best possible result to mark the continuation of our efforts!
“Thank you to all the Yoshimura, SERT and Suzuki fans who warmly supported the new Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We pledge to attract fans to an even better championship next year and Yoshimura SERT Motul will go all out to defend its title.”
Yoshimura SERT Motul Team won the championship
Xavier Siméon
“I had a small scare during the race on an oil stain. Crashing was forbidden in this race and I was lucky to save the bike in extreme circumstances. We had less pressure than at the Bol d’Or where we had to make up the points lost in Estoril. In Most, we could make a careful race which allowed us to win this title which rewards all the team’s work.”
Gregg Black
“SERT is probably one of the best teams in endurance racing for a long time. The association with Yoshimura has paid off because we have an incredible bike. The team has done a lot of work as well as Yoshimura and it is a pleasure for us to ride this bike. The team has also often shown a good racing strategy and that’s important because it’s not always the fastest on the track who wins the championship. So I am very happy to have worked with Yoshimura and my two new teammates.”
Sylvain Guintoli
“This season was like a dream because everything went according to plan. The most incredible thing for me was to win the 24 Heures Motos and the Bol d’Or – two events that I absolutely wanted to win one day. That’s why I had the idea to join Yoshimura SERT Motul. This title is fantastic because it rewards all the work done by everyone. We arrived here with the championship in mind but also the will to be on the podium, so the contract is fulfilled!”
2021 FIM Endurance World Championship Points (Final)
Turmoil at the start of the 6 Hours of Most initially saw BMW’s Ilya Mikhalchik drop back to sixth place, however he was soon able to work his way back towards the front of the field. After 15 minutes of racing, Mikhalchik was running second, behind Mike di Meglio on the F.C.C. TSR Honda, but the BMW man then moved to the head of the field on the M 1000 RR and set about opening up a lead.
Ilya Mikhalchik
The F.C.C. TSR Honda squad were looking strong but unfortunately a crash by Yuki Takahashi a couple of hours into the race put them behind the eight ball. Then an engine problem surfaced on lap 142 that forced Josh Hook to enter the pits where the team determined that it was not possible to continue the race.
F.C.C. TSR Honda retired with engine problems
Over the course of the six hour race, which included two lengthy safety car periods, Mikhalchik and Reiterberger only surrendered the lead briefly twice.
Having said that, the closing stages were not for the faint-hearted. The #7 Yamaha from the YART team was closing all the time, however Reiterberger kept a cool head, paced the race perfectly and just managed to defend the lead and take the team’s maiden victory. After six hours of racing Reiterberger took the chequered flag by just 0.070 seconds ahead of YART’s Marvin Fritz.
Markus Reiterberger
Markus Reiterberger – Team BMW – P1
“I think that was a really breathtaking race to the chequered flag. Ilya was on the bike at the start. He overtook everyone in the first stint and we took the lead. We fancied a five-stop strategy, but for that to work you need a safety car. That is very probable at this track, and that is exactly what happened. We managed to make one stop fewer than YART, for example. I think fuel consumption was the key to success today, and the fact that we rode flawlessly. I gave it everything in my last stint and rode against the clock. That was very tough, because Marvin Fritz was really pushing behind me. It was really very close, but I did it. I am grateful that we have finally won, as the whole team has more than earned it. This is the reward for the huge amount of hard work. Thank you to the team, BMW and everyone who has supported us. This is a really nice way to end the season.”
After six hours of racing the finish was this close!
Marvin Fritz – YART – P2
“We’re happy for second place because the team really deserved a good result. For sure I’m angry and disappointed in myself for losing by such a small gap because we really wanted to win here in Most. We had a tough start, an issue which, with the unfortunate timing of the safety car, saw us lose over two minutes in total. We worked hard as a team and my team-mates rode brilliantly to recover the gap. But despite those issues we ended the race 0.070 seconds behind them, so this shows the speed we had. We need to be positive because we were only a second behind Toprak’s World Superbike time here. Looking back it was a good weekend because we were fast in practice, had an incredible qualifying and we ended the race with the fastest lap and so close to victory so we need to take this motivation, work on the areas we are struggling in the most and come back stronger in 2022.”
6 Hours of Most
2021 was the second season in the FIM EWC for the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. The new BMW M 1000 RR was used for the first time this year. The team finished third in the first two races, at Le Mans (FRA) and Estoril (POR). In race three, the Bol d’Or at Le Castellet (FRA), they were forced to retire with a technical issue but the team bounced back at the Most finale to secure the win and second place in the championship.
6 hours of Most winners – BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team
Marc Bongers – BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director
“Congratulations to the team, Werner Daemen and the riders on their fantastic victory in Most. The race was a thriller, just as the whole season has been extremely exciting. We have experienced impressive fightbacks, podiums and setbacks this year. After the Bol d’Or, we were no longer in contention for the title, however it was clear that the team would give it their all in the final race here in Most. We looked very good in the test and backed that form up in the race. We knew that we had the pace to finish on the podium. To take victory at the end of such a close race is simply fantastic. It was a fantastic job from Ilya and Reiti, who was so impressive in bringing home the win, and the whole team, which worked perfectly in the garage. That is a great way to end the season. We will keep working and know that we still have a lot of challenges ahead of us. However, this is a great basis, we have a superb team, and we now head into the winter and preparations for 2022 with great motivation.”
Markus Reiterberger and the BMW Team
The winners of the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship were the Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki squad. The title holders rode a controlled race for third place at Most to secure the title.
Yoshimura SERT Motul Team won the championship
Yohei Kato – Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki Team Director
“I am very pleased and honoured to win the championship in the first year of participation as the Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We vowed to fight in this Endurance World Championship on behalf of the Suzuki Factory Team. This season has proved to be a dream come true by winning two of the world’s most famous 24-hour races, namely, the 24 Heures of Le Mans and the Bol d’Or. This world championship title is the first for this new team and the 20th for Suzuki. Suzuki, Yoshimura and SERT will keep working together to improve the Suzuki GSX-R1000R into an even better package. The whole team will respect each other in the spirit of one for all, all for one. I think this is the best possible result to mark the continuation of our efforts! Thank you to all the Yoshimura, SERT and Suzuki fans who warmly supported the new Yoshimura SERT Motul team. We pledge to attract fans to an even better championship next year and Yoshimura SERT Motul will go all out to defend its title.”
Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki won the championship
That fight for third place on the podium between Yoshimura SERT Motul and Webike SRC Kawasaki France Trickstar was almost as exciting as the nail biting fight for victory between BMW and YART. The Franco-Japanese Suzuki team (Gregg Black, Xavier Simeon and Sylvain Guintoli) fended off the attacks of the Webike SRC Kawasaki France Trickstar (Jérémy Guarnoni, Erwan Nigon and David Checa) squad to the very end. The factory Kawasaki team wound up the third in the championship.
Wójcik Racing Team (Gino Rea, Sheridan Morais and Dan Linfoot), who ran strongly nearly the front of the field throughout, finished 5th at Most. It was their best result following a tough season.
ERC Endurance Ducati #6
ERC Endurance-Ducati (Etienne Masson, Lorenzo Zanetti and Mathieu Gines) made progress at every race this season and were 6th at the finish ahead of the first Superstock machine, the No Limits Motor Team Suzuki (Luca Scassa, Kevin Calia and Alexis Masbou).
The Czech team TME Racing took 2nd place in the Superstock class after a superb race among the Superstock front-runners. Energie Endurance 91, 3rd in the Superstock class, climbed on to the podium in class for the first time.
BMRT 3D Maxxess Nevers, the winners of the FIM Superstock World Cup at the Bol d’Or, were forced to withdraw from the season finale. Thanks to their category win at Most, No Limits Motor Team claimed the runner-up spot in the FIM Endurance World Cup.
Anthony West joined the MACO Racing squad for the event and qualified well but ultimately the team finished 20-laps behind the leaders, in 17th place, but West demonstrated enough pace to have potentially put in a top ten result and acquitted himself well. Westy did go down on oil after a competitor’s bike blew an engine but no oil flags were displayed, which sent Westy down the road at over 250 km/h but the team repaired the bike in order to finish the race and secure tenth place in the championship.
Anthony West (#14) showed good enough pace for a top ten result but it was not to be. West was certainly strong enough to throw his hat in the ring for a good seat in 2022 if we wants to continue in the FIM EWC
2021 6 Hours of Most Race Results
Pos
Team…………………………………………………………………………………….
Bike
Class
Laps
Best Lap
Pit Time
1
BMW MOTORRAD WORLD ENDURANCE TEAM
BMW
EWC
213
1m34359
4m09.907
2
YART – Yamaha Official Team EWC
Yamaha
EWC
213
1m33.875
5m20.754
3
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL
Suzuki
EWC
212
1m34.963
4m02.456
4
WEBIKE SRC KAWASAKI FRANCE TRICKSTAR
Kawasaki
EWC
212
1m35.174
3m55.436
5
Wójcik Racing Team
Yamaha
EWC
211
1m34.990
5m48.958
6
ERC Endurance Ducati
Ducati
EWC
211
1m35.121
8m01.306
7
No Limits Motor Team
Suzuki
SST
208
1m35.912
5m38.376
8
TME Racing
Yamaha
SST
207
1m36.567
7m22.639
9
ENERGIE ENDURANCE 91
Kawasaki
SST
203
1m37.809
6m12.422
10
Team Aviobike
Yamaha
SST
203
1m38.430
6m50.615
11
JMA MOTOS ACTION BIKE
Suzuki
SST
202
1m38.787
6m04.899
12
FALCON RACING
Yamaha
SST
202
1m38.717
5m58.161
13
Motobox Kremer Racing #65
Yamaha
EWC
202
1m38.787
6m05.798
14
TATI TEAM BERINGER RACING
Kawasaki
EWC
201
1m36.268
1m:27.102
15
Team Bolliger Switzerland #8
Kawasaki
EWC
201
1m35.841
1m:27.761
16
TEAM 18 SAPEURS POMPIERS CMS MOTOSTORE
Yamaha
SST
198
1m36.718
1m17.903
17
MACO RACING Team
Yamaha
EWC
193
1m36.097
3m:44.384
18
TRT27 BAZAR 2 LA BECANE
Suzuki
SST
190
1m39.765
20m49.854
19
Wójcik Racing Team 2
Yamaha
SST
181
1m37.460
54m52.827
20
Team LRP Poland
BMW
EWC
176
1m37.276
49m22.820
21
MOTO AIN
Yamaha
EWC
172
1m35.278
1m10:14.149
22
BMRT 3D MAXXESS NEVERS
Kawasaki
SST
174
1m37.061
12m27.724
23
VRD IGOL EXPÉRIENCES
Yamaha
EWC
145
1m35.422
24m05.223
24
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
Honda
EWC
142
1m35.158
20m21.202
2021 FIM Endurance World Championship Points (Final)
We’re all daydreaming of our next real adventure, ready to escape, and breathe the air of new places.
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The all-new 2021 X-Plore range from Scott Sports has been engineered to offer the ultimate gear solution for the modern enduro rider, whether youre competing in the Red Bull Romaniacs or simply cruising your local trails! With a focus on durability, functionality and comfort, this next generation enduro line is constructed with all the features you need to conquer the trail.
The Scott X-Plore Jersey combines durability with ultimate breathability. Purpose built for varied and ever-changing enduro terrain, this jersey will have you covered no matter how demanding the conditions become.
Scott X-Plore Jersey
Durable and stretchy chest and sleeves materials will ensure comfort and longevity, whilst well placed ventilation panels create maximum air flow to keep you riding for longer.
Scott X-Plore Pants
Engineered to withstand the toughest enduro conditions on the planet, The Scott X-Plore Pant combines supreme durability with uncompromised function. Military grade inner knee materials offer supreme reinforcement and 900D Nylon construction ensures long-lasting, all-round protection.
Scott X-Plore Pants
Double ventilation panels on the thighs provide optional airflow, whilst dual pockets allow you to comfortably store your essentials on the go. A large knee area and articulated Velcro stretch waist closures bring a perfect fit every time you ride and make sure you stay comfortable no matter how long the trail is.
Scott X-Plore Gloves
The Scott X-Plore Glove is purpose built for the demanding enduro lifestyle. A Rib Span back of hand with Direct Inject TPR knuckles offers essential protection for your hands.
Scott X-Plore Gloves
A single piece Airprene cuff and closure provide superb comfort whilst the welded Clarino palm reinforcements ensure these gloves will stand the test of time.
Scott X-Plore Vest
The Scott X-Plore Vest provides all the high-end features an off-road rider needs. With a wind-resistant chassis and side stretch panels, it is a perfect choice for anybody that is looking for comfort and versatility.
Scott X-Plore Vest
Riders can wear the X-Plore Vest over a jersey or a jacket depending on weather and riding conditions. Front and rear pockets allow you to stow your essentials and be prepared for anything the trail might throw at you.
Scott’s 2021 X-Plore range is now available in AustraliaScott X-Plore GearScott X-Plore GlovesScott X-Plore JerseyScott X-Plore PantsScott X-Plore PantsScott X-Plore Pants
Australian motorcycle and OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) sales for the first nine months of this year have increased 8.3% over Covid-ravaged 2019.
According to official figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, 86,239 bikes were sold compared with 79,623 this time last year which was a 26.4% increase over 2019.
So it seems there are plenty of people out there getting on motorcycles or buying second and third bikes.
“This steady growth of 8.3% over the same period in 2020 shows us that there is strong demand from buyers who want to use a motorcycle as their first choice for the daily commute and for recreation,” says FCAI boss Tony Weber.
Road bikes were up just 2.2% to 26,119, off-road motorcycles were up 10.5% to 35,120, OHVs up 14.1% to 21,590 and scooters up 1.5% to 3410 units.
However, the official FCAI figures don’t necessarily mean a lot these days.
The supposed “peak body for the automotive industry in Australia” now represents a dwindling number of importers who pay to be members.
While several manufacturers who are not members may be minor players, CFMoto is not included and it is most likely in the top 10 sellers in Australia.
Plus scooter sales are possibly much higher than the announced 1.5% increase as most scooters sold are 50cc models from Asian manufacturers who are not FCAI members and therefore not included in the figures.
The figures now only provide the breakdown in classes (road, off-road, OHV and scooters) and do not include the top 10 sellers in each category such as sports bikes, enduro, tourers, cruisers, learners, etc.
So riders now have no idea how their brand, model and category is performing which used to be a good indicator of resale value.
The figures used to include a list of the top sellers by manufacturer, but now riders have no indication of which manufacturers might be desperate for sales and offer discounts.
