Only days away from the first official 2024 pre-season tests getting underway in Malaysia, GASGAS overnight officially launched their campaign and presented the latest RC16.
2022 Moto2 World Champion and 2023 MotoGP Rookie of the Year Augusto Fernandez will tackle his sophomore attempt at the premier class with the GASGAS RC16 and will be aiming to better a ‘PB’ race result of 4th from 2023 as well as enter the top ten of the championship standings.
Augusto Fernandez
Augusto Fernandez
“Everything was new and there was a lot to learn last year but there were points towards the end of the season where I felt fast and like I had the speed. I felt comfortable riding the bike but as a rookie you had to be very patient and trust the process. When I finished 2023 I analyzed the season and saw I had made the steps I needed to take. I am looking forward to this year because I now have the references of each track with the GASGAS RC16 and I know on Fridays we need to put a lot of input because it can decide much of the weekend. I’m super-proud to be partnering with Red Bull, and to have them on the bike. It’s a dream and we have everything we need to perform. It’s in our hands so let’s go for it.”
Augusto Fernandez
The 26-year-old is, of course, joined by fellow Spaniard and reigning Moto2 Champ Pedro Acosta. The 19-year-old already has Moto3 and Moto2 titles in just three years of GP competition and comes to the MotoGP fray with deserved hype and expectation. 2024 will be his first taste of the demands and technical complexities of MotoGP and the initial step of what could be a truly spectacular career.
Pedro Acosta
Pedro Acosta
“If I think about my career and journey so far then it is quite nice! Nice to say I had the opportunity to ride for a factory team in my first season, nice to say I won two titles in three years, it is nice to say I come into a factory team for the first season in MotoGP. But it is also quite tough to play with the pressure, to play with the comments. I don’t want to think about results at the moment. I just have one day on the bike, and it is not the time to talk about results or targets because it is not realistic. I will try to enjoy the Malaysia test and try to get as much experience as I can to try and be competitive at the beginning of the season but during that we also need to take race experience to grow step-by-step.”
Pedro Acosta
Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 is again led by Nicolas Goyon, for the second season in a row, and with excellent back up from the likes of Pol Espargaro in a test rider and supporting role and the team’s loyal band of partners and suppliers.
Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez
Nicolas Goyon – Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Manager
“In 2023 we had a lot of changes. We had this new Sprint format, and the new team structure but this means we are set and ready for the coming season. Augusto was strong for his rookie season. Of course, we all expect him to improve for 2024.He is very calm! He always takes some time to think about what has happened on the track and then to explain the technique and his feelings. This is something super-important for the team to develop and set-up the bike. Pedro is a great talent but my message for the fans would be ‘be patient’. You know, it is not so easy for a rookie to perform. It is complicated now with ride-height devices and a lot of electronics. The format of the weekend is also complicated and something to learn. Let’s give him time. For me, the 2024 Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 line-up will be even closer to the fans. Both riders are young, and we know this is the main target for GASGAS, to connect and excite all those that watch MotoGP.”
Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez
Hervé Poncharal – Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Principal
“One of the very exciting things that has happened this winter is the return of Red Bull with Tech3, and we are extremely happy to have them again featuring on our MotoGP bike. This season will be more exciting than ever, with a very competitive grid: riders and technical packages are so close to each other, so I truly believe that we are set for an amazing show. Augusto Fernandez learnt a lot last year, and he is ready to perform and fight for top positions. One of the most exciting prospects that MotoGP™ has known in recent years, Pedro Acosta, will line up for us. His first day at the Valencia test gave us the insurance that he has everything to have a brilliant rookie season, and we are looking forward to heading to Sepang to kick things off!”
Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez
Pit Beirer – GASGAS Motorsport Director
“2023 was a very intense year for our first season with GASGAS on the grid but Augusto came in with a great approach – he is super-positive and a fighter – and gave us a highlight in Le Mans with his 4th position. I feel the team adapted really well over the whole season and I’m looking forward to seeing what Augusto can do in his second go. With Pedro I think the whole paddock and community agrees that there is a diamond coming up in this sport. He is a very special rider, a unique rider who has already broken so many records at a young age.Pedro will make us better and stronger for the future, so we are happy to have him. I feel GASGAS is a very dynamic brand, and looking to the team spirit with these two fantastic athletes it is definitely the one to watch out for in ’24.”
2024 GASGAS RC16
Hubert Trunkenpolz – Member of the Board, Pierer Mobility AG
“One of the reasons why we went with GASGAS into MotoGP was to create brand awareness and it worked perfectly. MotoGP is, by far, the biggest and most successful platform because the media value and the public attendance is immense and we are absolutely happy we made that move. We now have a very exciting combination of Augusto and Pedro and a motorcycle that has proven it is ready for trophies. We know it will be a long season and the Sprints have been challenging: the really positive thing is that the fans really appreciate [the Sprints], the action on Saturday, and frankly speaking I also like it. At the end of the day the guys are racers. It’s great to have Red Bull onboard this year and I think the 2024 livery looks fantastic.”
2024 GASGAS RC16
The 2024 MotoGP season gets underway with round one at Lusail International Circuit on the weekend of March 10. The season opener under lights will be the first of a scheduled 22 rounds and 44 races (2024 will be the second term of the Saturday Sprint format). Although there are murmurs that the Argentinean round may be cancelled.
GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 are counting the days until Pol Espargaro is ready to return to his RC16 but in the meantime, and from the Grand Prix of the Americas at COTA in mid-April, the team and brand will count on the speed and experience of former MotoGP podium finisher Jonas Folger.
The 29-year-old German will make his first MotoGP appearance since 2017 and since stepping into the role as an official test rider. Jonas previously represented the Tech3 setup – scoring a thrilling runner-up result at his home Grand Prix – so knows the crew and the culture.
Jonas Folger
Pol Espargaro travelled back to Barcelona last weekend where he had surgery on his jaw. The procedure was performed on Tuesday at the Dexeus Hospital. He’ll remain under observation for a couple of days and is hopeful of being home soon when he’ll be able to step-up his physiotherapy and define a timeframe to get back in the saddle.
GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 are contesting this weekend’s Gran Premio Michelin de la Republica Argentina with Augusto Fernandez.
Jonas Folger
“First of all I really hope Pol is doing well and getting back on his feet as soon as possible. I’m sure he has the right people around him. From my side I’m looking forward to racing again and arriving to Texas to see all the guys from my old team! I hope we can do a decent job and I know it will be a big challenge for me since testing has only just started. However, this will be a great opportunity to get up to speed and learn more about the bike. I’m thankful and now looking to Texas.”
Jonas Folger tested with KTM at Sepang in February
Nicolas Goyon, GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 Team Manager
“It’s clear Pol needs time to make a full recovery and our thoughts are still with him and we are in contact all the time. Until he is ready though Jonas’ testing role together with his recent MotoGP experience meant he is the perfect fill-in. We had some good memories with him a few years ago and he tested with us in Sepang this pre-season. He’s a great guy and we’re delighted to welcome him back.”
KTM Australia has been organising adventure and dirt bike riding events in recent years and has announced their calendar for next year.
And it’s not just limited to KTM riders, either,
Since KTM Australia also imports Husqvarna and GASGAS dirt bikes, their Ride Out Moto Weekends are open to adult riders who own a KTM, Husqvarna or GASGAS off-road motorcycle (enduro, MX or cross-country) and to their kids on any brand of kid’s bike.
The weekend events will take place across three states in 2022.
Each event is a two-night, two-day recreational adventure on private property and is designed to be a non-competitive, family-friendly experience.
The first is in Stroud (NSW) on March 25-27, followed by Cooby Dam (Qld) on April 8-10, with the final weekend taking place in Wangaratta (Vic.) on April 29 to May 1.
Each weekend features a custom-cut 20km trailride loop, a grasstrack, an easy hillclimb and a newbies/kids track.
You can ride as much or as little as you want over the two days, making the most of all the tracks and set-ups on offer.
The registration fee is $299 per adult rider, $50 per child rider (aged 5-15) or $499 per family (two riding adults and two riding kids). An extra non-riding family member can attend for $30. Each event includes two nights of camping and two days of riding on an exclusive private property.
Also on offer, the latest range of 2022 KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles and GASGAS off-road models will be available to test on a 10km test ride loop, along with live music, American-style BBQ cook-offs, catering, coffee, partner stalls, giveaways (including rider goody-bags), plus special guests and mechanical advice.
Numbers are limited and registrations open next Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at 12pm AEDT.
However riders are encouraged to contact their local authorised KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles or GASGAS dealer for priority registration information.
Riders must either have a Motorcycling Australia (MA) competition licence, or an MA recreational licence, which is available to purchase at time of registration.
To find out more about each Ride Out Moto Weekend, contact your local KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles or GASGAS authorised dealer.
KTM, Husqvarna, GasGas double sale in first half of 2021
Pierer Mobility AG, incorporating KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas has seen sales almost double in the first half of 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, with 176,045 motorcycles sold, up from 90,331, or a 95 per cent increase.
A total of 53,378 units were sold through the successfully established non-e-bike and e-bike division (+25%). 39,603 of these are e-bikes and 13,775 are non-e-bikes of the R Raymon, Husqvarna and GasGas brands.
In Europe, in this period of time, 73,224 motorcycles were sold (+76% over the same period of the previous year). Growth was particularly strong in North America, where 30,419 motorcycles sold, this corresponds to an increase of 160% compared to the first half of 2020. A similar trend was seen in Australia/New Zealand, with a 25% increase and a total of 7,842 units sold.
Sales in Australia in the first half of 2021 were up 25% across the three brands
In India, despite the ongoing difficult conditions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, sales increased by 52% to 30,561 motorcycles (previous year: 20,160).
Compared to June 30, 2020, the Pierer Mobility Group also increased its headcount by around 500 people to approximately 4,900 and continues looking for new employees in various areas. As part of the apprenticeship offensive, 70 more apprentices will start their education in 2021. In total, the group is educating around 200 apprentices.
The half-year report to June 30, 2021, will be published on August 31, 2021, before the start of trading.
GASGAS have three new models for 2022, adding three new motocross machines to the most comprehensive dirt bike line-up the brand has ever offered.
GasGas MC350F
For adults – the big kids – GASGAS have launched a new MC 250 2-stroke together with the MC 350F 4-stroke. All new bikes will be available from September in Australia and December in New Zealand, while continuing models will be available from August in both countries.
Giving the next generation of motocross stars a bike that bridges the gap between the MC 65 and MC 85, the new small wheel MC 85 is the perfect choice for mini racers working their way up the ranks. With a carefully designed chassis that accommodates its smaller wheels, the bike ensures uncompromised handling and performance, and is ready to shred with a simple prod of the kick starter.
Aiming for the ultimate 250cc 2-stroke motocross bike is the MC 250. With an engine that boasts tons of torque down low together with ample power up top, WP XACT Suspension it soaks up bumps and jumps no matter how hard or fast a rider hits them. And let’s not forget its mechanical simplicity and low running costs. Built for 2-stroke fans and competitive in the hands of serious racers, everyone will enjoy the experience on the MC 250.
GasGas MC 250
Saving the best ’til last as some would say, is the MC 350F is the third and final motocross bike added to the line-up. With strong, usable power and nimble handling, it’s a bike designed for fun-filled weekends at the track with your buddies. The bike is super-lightweight and for those who dare to twist the throttle that little bit harder, it’s fearlessly fast too!
GASGAS have announced that Daniel Sanders will chase rally glory in 2021, starting with the upcoming Rally Kazakhstan, as an official GASGAS Factory backed entrant.
Undoubtedly one of the hottest prospects in rally racing, Sanders will compete in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship before taking on the big one, the Dakar Rally next January.
More than capable of putting himself and our RC 450F rally bike at the top of the timing sheets, the young Aussie is hugely excited to be racing for GASGAS Factory Racing in 2021.
Daniel Sanders – GASGAS Factory Racing
“Being the face of GASGAS in rally is really cool. I’ve not been in rally that long so to be picked up and put on a factory team this early in my career is awesome. I’m so looking forward to racing this year as part of this team. It’s been such a long time since the Dakar and with the world championship coming up really soon, I just can’t wait to be competing again. I’m excited for the future, the opportunity that I have, and it’s going to be a great year of racing. Let’s go!”
Daniel Sanders
As a former ISDE winner, Sanders clearly has the skills needed to compete at the highest level on two wheels, something he made perfectly clear at the 2021 Dakar. Rocketing to a seriously impressive fourth overall and finishing as best rookie, make no mistake, Daniel has arrived on the rally scene, and we can’t wait to see what he can do in 2021 and beyond.
Pit Beirer – GASGAS Motorsport Director
“It’s a huge moment for GASGAS to welcome Daniel to the team. I believe we’ve signed the best young talent in rally at the moment, and it really shows a clear statement that the brand is ready to challenge the established stars and grow its presence even further in rally. It’s really exciting for GASGAS to have a rider that’s so full of energy and after such a bright start to his rally career, the upcoming season is shaping up to be really good for him and for GASGAS Motorcycles.”
Daniel Sanders
With Sanders recently completing his final preparations ahead of the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, the 26-year-old is now just days away from making his GASGAS debut, at Rally Kazakhstan. Following the six-round series, which concludes in November, it’s then onto the big one – the Dakar Rally – in January 2022.
Daniel Sanders
Jordi Viladoms – GASGAS Rally Team Manager
“It’s great to have such a talented, young rider racing for GASGAS this season. Daniel is very new to rally and very inexperienced compared to his rivals, but he has picked it up really quickly. He is a very quick learner as we saw at the Dakar earlier this year. Placing fourth in your first Dakar does not come from luck, it comes from hard work, preparation, and ability to overcome all the challenges that only the Dakar can provide. Daniel is fast, motivated and very capable so we expect to see him battling for success in this year’s FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and then it’s onto the Dakar next year.”
KTM Australia, who import KTM, GasGas and Husqvarna has issued a series of recalls in the past couple of days affecting a variety of motorcycles and electric mini-bikes.
The official notices issued through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission cite problems with short circuits, fuel leaks and brake faults.
The short circuit issue affects 46 KTM SX-E5, 33 Husqvarna EE-5 and three GasGas MC-E5 current model electric mini-bikes.
Apparently, the battery vent valve may be missing on some motorcycles, allowing water intrusion.
“If the vent valve is not fitted, water could enter the battery and result in a short circuit, affecting the vehicle operation,” the notice says.
“A short circuit can increase the risk of an accident, causing injury or death to the rider or others”.
The front fuel tank fuel lines may rub during operation, causing wear and damage to the fuel lines over time. Fuel may leak from damaged fuel lines,” the ACCC notice says.
“If a fuel leak occurs, this may lead to a fire. A vehicle fire could increase the risk of an accident, serious injury or death to the rider, other road users and bystanders, and/or damage to property.”
Brake issue
KTM 790 Adventure and R
The brake issue affects 1289 KTM 790 Adventure 2019-2020 models, including the R and R Rally.
According to the ACCC notice, the preload force of the return spring located in the front brake cylinder “may not meet specifications”.
“This can result in the brake piston not being returned to its original position, which can impair the function of the front brake and result in a loss of brake performance,” it says.
“Reduced brake performance can increase the risk of an accident, causing serious injury or death to the rider and other road users.”
Owners of the above affected motorcycles have been contacted by dealerships, advising them of the recall and asking them to contact an authorised KTM dealer to arrange an appointment for inspection of their motorcycle.
Affected motorcycles that have not been sold will be inspected and repaired (if needed) before sale.
For further information, consumers can contact KTM Australia on 1800 644 771 or find their nearest authorised dealer using the dealer search option at https://www.ktm.com/au
Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.
Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.
If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:
2020 WA Junior Speedway Solo & Sidecar champs crowned
2020 Victorian Senior & Junior Solo Speedway Championships
GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing hosting 13-rider line-up in 2021
2021 Australian Off-Road Championship Updates
2021 ProMX Championship expands classes
Laia Sanz set for GasGas Dakar 2021 campaign
US ISDE Club Team Qualifier events announced
2021 AMA Supercross calendar update
2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies calendar
Adrien Van Beveren wins Hail Baja II
Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Official Team’s Adrien Van Beveren has topped the second Hail Baja, his final competitive outing ahead of the 2021 Dakar Rally. With participation proving to be highly productive for the Frenchman, the event’s challenging terrain and technical navigation provided one last chance for Van Beveren to finalise the set-up of his Yamaha WR450F Rally ahead of the Dakar Rally in January 2021.
Adrien Van Beveren – Hail Baja 2
With a race format similar to the opening Hail Baja, the second edition of the event again comprised of two stages, with a slightly shorter overall distance of 491km. Opening the stage on day one, Van Beveren quickly put his navigational skills to work. With the stage set entirely in the demanding sand dunes surrounding the town of Baqaa, he accurately navigated his way through each checkpoint, going on to complete the stage to finish a healthy 31-minutes ahead of the second placed finisher.
Stage two provided Adrien with much different desert conditions. Faced with the rockiest stage of the Hail Rally, it was a welcome challenge for the Frenchman to navigate through slow, technical sections aboard the Yamaha WR450F Rally. Remaining composed throughout and following another untroubled ride, Van Beveren reached the finish line unscathed to successfully complete his final race ahead of the Dakar Rally in January.
Adrien Van Beveren – Hail Baja 2
Now, with just over two weeks to go until the start of the 2021 Dakar Rally, Adrien will enjoy a short period of recovery before gearing up again to take on the challenge that lies ahead.
Adrien Van Beveren
“It’s been a really great trip to these two races in Hail. It was a big effort to get here, so I’m thankful to the team that we were able to make it happen. My feeling on the bike is really good and I felt great in the desert. The second stage had very high speeds and I was completely comfortable, so this gives me a lot of confidence ahead of Dakar. I will now take some rest for a week before getting ready for the big race in January.”
Adrien Van Beveren – Hail Baja 2
Overall 2020 Hail Baja Results (Provisional)
Pos
Rider
Man.
Time
Gap
1
Adrien Van Beveren
Yamaha
5:19:20
2
Mishal Alghuneim
KTM
6:12:25
+0:53:05
3
Anas Al Ruhayany
KTM
6:12:35
+0:53:15
4
Konrad Dabrowski
KTM
6:29:00
+1:09:40
5
Abdulmajeed Abdulaziz Aakhulaifi
Yamaha
6:29:07
+1:09:47
6
Riyadh Saud Alshammari
Yamaha
6:31:01
+1:11:41
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
WA Junior Speedway Solo & Sidecar champs crowned
By Graeme Sinden, Images by Jon Gall and Graham Veasey
The Speedway Motorcycle Club of WA hosted the Junior 125cc Solo and Junior 250cc Sidecar Championships at its Pinjar Park Motorcycle Speedway facility in Neerabup, WA on Saturday, at the small 142m ‘WOFFY’ track which was established as a Junior Racing circuit by Rob Woffinden and a number of like minded volunteers around 10 or 11 years ago.
In a dominant performance, young WA rider Mitch McDiarmid was crowned the new 125cc Junior WA Solo Champion, after storming to victory with a maximum 18-point score.
Junior 125cc Solo champion Mitch McDiarmid
While he was relatively untroubled in his five heat races, Linkin Metcalf made McDiarmid work for the Championship decider by pushing him to the limit in what turned out to be the best race of the night.
Metcalf appeared to have plenty of speed and dared to take the high line for almost the entire four-lap journey and had his nose in front on several occasions as they went handlebar to handlebar with neither rider giving an inch, But it was Diarmid who got the job job done to record a very popular Championship win.
Junior 125cc Solo champion Mitch McDiarmid topped the podium ahead of Phoenix Elliot and Axle McCarthy
Unlucky story of the night, (one of two, actually) was that of current Australian 125cc solo Champion Luke Killeen, who after winning two heats succumbed to engine problems on his bike and was not able to secure another ride to continue in the title race.
The other unlucky story of the night was that of Adam Fewster and his accomplished passenger Thomas Grigson. The pair rode superbly all night long winning each of their five heat races only to have their outfit fail early on in the championship decider in the 250cc Junior sidecar Championship.
Jake Harvey and his passenger Nathan Gajec were cock-a-hoop as they swept into the lead and raced to a fine sidecar Championship win adding to the one they secured last year. Jake Harvey is an extremely competitive junior sidecar rider and will move up to senior competition next season.
Jake Harvey and passenger Nathan Gajec topped the Junior 250cc Sidecar class, Mitchell McDiarmid/Phoenix Elliot were runner-up and Adam Fewster/Thomas Grigson claimed bronze
There were many other highlights on the evening and it was a great pleasure watching all the young competitors giving it their all in the sport they love.
The Executive committee of the Speedway Motorcycle Club provided a brand new race tyre for the Junior ‘Rider of the Night’ for the Championship night.
Grant Woodhams had no hesitation in awarding The “Junior Rider Of the Night” prize to Mitch McDiarmid for his outstanding 18-point maximum on his way to winning the solo Championship.
WA Junior 125cc Solo Sidecar Title
Mitchell McDiarmid
Phoenix Elliot
Axle McCarthy
WA Junior 250cc Sidecar Title
Jake Harvey/Nathan Gajek
Mitchell McDiarmid/Phoenix Elliot
Adam Fewster/Thomas Grigson
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
2020 Victorian Senior & Junior Solo Speedway Championships
The Mildura Motorcycle Club held the 2020 Victorian Senior and Junior Solo Speedway championships at the Olympic Park Speedway in Mildura over the weekend, with Justin Sedgmen crowned 2020 Victorian Solo champion ahead of Jordan Steward and Jacob Hook.
Justin Sedgmen – P1
“Victorian Champion! Stoked to get the win! Finally a Victorian Title win at Olympic Park. Thanks to everyone that came out, the Mildura Motorcycle Club and all my valued sponsors.”
Jacob Hook – P3
“On the weekend we made the trip to Mildura for the Vic title. Shout out to the Mildura Motorcycle Club for putting on a great event the track was mint and racing fast all night! I had a good meeting except for one hiccup. Second, first, DNF, first, first finishing the heats on 11 points, winning the B Final to progress through to the A Main. I am super happy with the results finishing on the podium in third place securing a work permit. Thanks to everyone that supports me.”
In the Victorian Junior 250cc class it was James Pearson taking the title from Jackson Milner and Mick Cogdell, while the Junior 125cc class saw Beau Bailey take the crown ahead of Harry Saddler and Noah Grabham.
The next event on the calendar is the Phil Crump Solo International on Saturday January 2 (2021) at Olympic Park Speedway Mildura.
Victorian Senior 500cc Championship
Justin Sedgmen
Jordan Stewart
Jacob Hook
Cooper Riordan
Victorian Junior 125cc Championship
Beau Bailey
Harry Saddler
Noah Grabham
Ashley Jansen-Batchelor
Victorian Junior 250cc Championship
James Pearson
Jacko Milner
Mick Cogdell
Broc White
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing backing 13-rider line-up in 2021
Entering its 20th year since inception, and 15th year as a national development program, GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing shows no signs of slowing down with a massive 13 rider line up spreading all the way from the 65ccc division, to the newly formed MX3 class at the Pro MX.
Jake Rumens
Continuing with a hands-on, state by state support program that allows riders and families to work with team managers, many of whom are ex-professional racers and coaches, Yamaha Junior Racing has proven to be a pathway to success with a long list of riders progressing through the program and onto a career in racing.
Each rider is asked to contest the local series in their region, their state motocross championships as well the pinnacle of junior racing, the week-long Australian Junior Motocross Championships held in the last week of September each year.
Having 13 riders on the track requires a significant investment from not just Yamaha Motor Australia and its products like Yamalube, GYTR, YMF and YMI, but also from Ficeda Accessories who also are 100 per cent behind the team with the help of first class companies like SCOTT, Just1, Dunlop and DID.
2021 promises to be another exciting year for the team with a full calendar back in place in all states and a dozen overly enthusiastic and energetic dirt bike racers desperate to be back on the race track and doing what they love. The 2021 rider roster is as follows.
Jobe Dunne
Western Australia
Deegan Fort: 65cc / 85cc small wheel
Jake Rumens: 85cc big wheel/ 125cc
Manager: Peter Strickland
South Australia
Ryder Woodrow: 65cc/ 85cc small wheel
Wil Carpenter: 85cc / 125cc
Manager: Shane Metcalfe
Tasmania
Jay Jennings: 65cc / 85cc small wheel
Angus Pearce: 125cc/ 250cc
Manager: Brody Jennings
Victoria
Jobe Dunne: 65cc/ 85cc small wheel
Pat Martinn: 125cc/ 250cc
Manager: Cameron Taylor
NSW
Kayd Kingsford: 85cc big wheel /125cc
Ryder Kingsford: 125cc / 250cc
Manager: Darren Thompson
Queensland
Jake Cannon: 85cc big wheel / 125cc
Kobe Drew: 125cc/ 250cc
Jackson Camilleri: 250cc MX3
2021 Australian Off-Road Championship Updates
The Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) Management Team has announced a new initiative – Club AORC – for the 2021 Championship. Club AORC is aimed at new and upcoming riders to give them a taste of the national Championship competition while also rewarding them under the Club AORC points system.
2021 AORC calendar
The AORC team also announced that Australia’s largest online motorcycle gear and accessories retailer, MXstore, will continue their strong support as ‘Presented By’ sponsor of the 2021 AORC. MXstore were key to the success of this year’s Championship, by not only supporting the Championship, but also providing significant prizes for riders at all the rounds. The continued partnership shows the growth for both the Championship and company as an ongoing relationship.
Club AORC riders will receive bonus points for participating in seven rounds or more of the 12 round AORC in 2021. If a rider starts seven rounds or more, a 50-point bonus will be given towards the rider’s Club AORC points results in their relevant Championship class.
Any rider within 10 per cent of the class winner at any sprint or enduro round or within 10 per cent of the class winners fastest lap for a cross country round will not be eligible for Club AORC.
Josh Green – AORC 2020
Motorcycling Australia Off-Road Events Manager, Matthew Falvo, said this was an exciting new initiative to further grow the AORC after record rider numbers in AORC this year.
Matthew Falvo
“We are always looking at new and innovative ways to provide off-road riders with an opportunity to race against the world’s best riders in the Australian Off-Road Championship. This new initiative is a great way for riders new to off-road national competition racers to test their limits in our growing Championship and still be rewarded for their efforts. Club AORC is about providing riders with a progression into full-blown national competition against the world’s best riders in the AORC. The AORC is the breeding ground of the world’s best off-road riders and we want to ensure that we can provide new avenues for weekend enthusiasts and part-time racers to make the transition to one of the world’s best off-road Championships.”
More Information is still to follow including regulations and further exciting incentives for Club AORC.
AORC Junior Coaching
Another new initiative from the AORC paddock was the announcement of the Exclusive AORC Junior Coaching days, which will be run by many of the world’s best enduro riders in 2021. The junior coaching days will be held in February and conducted by Australia’s very own world and ISDE Champions Daniel Sanders, Daniel Milner, Fraser Higlett, Josh Green, Michael Driscoll and Jessica Gardner in Victoria, NSW, and Queensland.
AORC have held these coaching days earlier this year and were swamped with interest and registrations, and expect nothing less for 2021, encouraging young riders aged 9-15-years-old to be book early and avoid missing out.
In NSW on February 6, 2021 from 9 am-3 pm, at Stroud, Josh Green, Michael Driscoll and multiple AORC Women’s Champion Jessica Gardner, thanks to OffRoad Advantage and JG Institute, will impart their skills and knowledge to juniors, which will also include an exclusive junior girls coaching session with Jessica Gardner. Click here to enter NOW.
NSW AORC Junior Coaching day
Current World and 2020 AORC Champions Daniel Sanders and Emma Milesevic will hold a one-day training camp at Three Bridges in the Yarra Valley, Victoria, on February 20, 2021 between 9 am-3 pm. Riders will get exclusive tips and tricks from the world’s best and will include an exclusive junior girls coaching clinic, with Emma Milesevic. Click here to enter NOW.
Lang Lang, Victoria, AORC Junior Coaching day
Fraser Higlett, Harry Teed, Zoe Bocarri and Ebony Nielson will also hold a junior coaching day on February 20, 2021 between 9 am and 3 pm at Crows Nest, Queensland in conjunction with QLD JEDS Coaching to help build the repertoire of riders’ skills and knowledge. Entries open soon.
Crows Nest, Queensland, AORC Junior Coaching day
Victorian juniors on February 21, 2021, between 9 am and 3 pm will get the opportunity to learn at Lang Lang, Victoria when, thanks to DM31 OffRoad Development, 2020 AORC E2 class Champion Daniel Milner and Mason Semmens will hold a coaching day teaching young riders all the necessary skills to become AORC Champions. Click here to enter NOW.
Three Bridges, Victoria, AORC Junior Coaching day
For additional information and pricing head to the AORC website at https://www.aorc.org.au/junior-dev/. Profits from the training camps go towards funding the 2021 Australian ISDE Teams. Australia has punched well above its weight in previous ISDE events and brought home a swag of first places and podium finishes. 2021 promises to be another highly competitive year for the Australian contingent.
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2021 ProMX Championship expands classes
ProMX has announced new support classes for the inaugural 2021 Championship season, which will support the elite MX1, MX2 and MX3 classes of the ProMX Championship. Expanding on the permanent championship classes will see the introduction of the MXW (MX Womens), VETS ( Veterans), 125cc Cup and Classic Motocross Evolution Cup classes.
2021 ProMX
The addition of these class favourites will ensure for fans that the 2021 ProMX Championship is jam packed with handlebar-to-handlebar action. The additional ProMX classes will feature alongside MX1, MX2 and MX3 at select rounds further strengthening the Championship.
MXW will provide an opportunity for elite female riders to showcase their talents both to the Australian and international audiences, as well as provide valuable exposure to hopeful MXGP candidates who are looking for an international future. Veteran racing is also thriving and the opportunity to showcase riders’ skill and talents in 2021.
Support classes provide a valuable access point to national racing, and the 125cc Cup is a rider and fan favourite event that will see two stroke racers have the opportunity to race at national level events and tracks. The addition of the Classic Motocross Evolution Cup, aims to also give an access point to the classic motocross riders who wish to enjoy competitive racing at a national level to entertain both the crowds and industry with the classic bikes of yesteryear.
MXW
Open to riders sixteen years of age and over competing in an open class structure on 125cc machines and up, the MXW class has seen many great champions emerge over recent years and go on to international success with the likes of Meghan Rutledge, Maddy Brown and Jess Moore all enjoying long standing careers in the MXW class. The next generation of women competing in MXW will take the track with PROMX in 2021.
VETS
The vet classes will feature two age group categories being 30-39 and 40+. With many retired pro riders and national champions racing alongside their fellow VET class competitors, the VET classes provide a great outlet for the industry and riders to embrace a potent mix of competition and camaraderie.
125 Cup
A rider and fan favourite, the 125 cup will see the sound of two strokes singing around select rounds of ProMX in 2021. Open to riders 16 years of age and over competing on 125cc two stroke machines, this class provides highly competitive on track action.
Classic Motocross Evolution Cup
This classic motocross class is open to applicable bikes as per the MoMs of the evolution class to give classic motocross enthusiasts the opportunity to compete for a national championship.
See the full season calendar with class breakdown for each outing below.
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Laia Sanz set for GasGas Dakar 2021 campaign
Laia Sanz and GASGAS Factory Racing have completed their pre-Dakar testing and are now counting down the days to the start of their epic New Year adventure. Laia will take to the start of her 11th Dakar in a little over two weeks’ time on board the GASGAS RC 450F, covering 12-stages and 7,646 km, including 4,767 km of timed specials.
Laia Sanz – GASGAS Factory Racing
For Laia recent months have been especially challenging due to contracting Lyme Disease during the summer, making her final Dakar preparations more complicated than normal. However, with support from her team, friends, and sponsors, Laia believes she is now ready to take on the world’s toughest cross-country rally.
Laia Sanz – GASGAS Factory Racing
The 43rd edition of the race will see an increased emphasis placed on rider navigation and competitor’s abilities to tackle slower-speed, technical terrain, which is great news for Laia. Reducing the event’s average speeds, with her ability to both navigate well while under pressure and complete long stages with the minimum of mistakes, Laia is upbeat about this year’s route.
The event will start and finish at the Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah. Like all competitors, Laia will face a short qualifying prologue on Saturday, January 2, before starting the rally proper and 12 long and demanding stages covering a total of 7,646 km. With a rest day in Ha’il midway through the race, Laia will then work her way back to Jeddah on January 15, having raced 4,767 km of timed special stages against the clock.
Laia Sanz – GASGAS Factory Racing
With bikes and vehicles already on their way to Jeddah for the start of the race, GASGAS Factory Racing announced a couple of changes in the team’s sponsor structure. Laia will wear KENNY race clothing for her assault on the 2021 Dakar and receive added support from long-time sponsor KH7.
Laia Sanz
“It’s been a really tough year for me, so to be able to look forward to racing the 2021 Dakar means so much. I injured my hand on the second stage of this year’s Dakar, back in January, and although I carried on and completed the event the injury turned out to be worse than we thought. It took a while at the beginning of the year to recover from that. I was really looking forward to start training on my GASGAS trial and enduro bikes, and maybe fitting in some events. Unfortunately, when I was finally able to get out on my bikes again, I started to feel ill. Eventually I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease, which made me feel very unwell. Thankfully, with the right treatment I have been able to start riding again. I know I’m not 100% and we’ll have to see just how I feel when the rally starts in January. It helps that we have some experience now of the terrain we will face, and the way things work with the move to the Middle East. The event in January should also be a little more technical and with tougher navigation, so I’m looking forward to that. I don’t want to put any pressure on myself, and another finish would be incredible, but my main goal is to go there and just enjoy the race.”
Laia Sanz – GASGAS Factory RacingMoto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
U.S. ISDE Club Team Qualifier events announced
Two AMA-sanctioned International Six Days Enduro Qualifier Series will be used to determine which amateur off-road racers will represent the United States at the 2021 FIM International Six Days Enduro in Italy.
The 2021 AMA East Region ISDE Qualifier Series and the 2021 AMA West Region ISDE Qualifier Series each consist of three rounds, beginning in March and ending in May. The 95th edition of the ISDE is scheduled for Aug. 30 – Sept. 4 in Lombardy-Piedmont, Italy.
ISDE competitor Ty Tremaine – Photo by Mary Rinell
The U.S. ISDE team won the World Trophy and Women’s World Trophy championships at the 2019 ISDE, as well as the Club Cup title. The American Junior World Trophy team placed second in its class. The 2020 ISDE was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Erek Kudla – AMA Off-Road Racing Manager
“With the World, Women’s and Club Trophies still held by the U.S. ISDE Team, and after missing a year of racing, our riders are very excited to return to represent the country in international competition. The qualifying process has been very successful in getting our fastest riders from either coast onto our Club teams, and we are looking forward to another great year at the world championship event.”
In the 2021 qualifiers, riders receive an overall score for each day of competition and will be ranked by their four highest scores at the end of each series. Selected riders will be organized into seven three-member U.S. Club teams, which include the overall top seven riders from each of the two qualifier series, as well as the top 40-plus rider from each qualifier series. Five riders are selected by the AMA ISDE Advisory Committee, which also selects the U.S. ISDE Trophy teams. The seven American Club teams compete alongside the three U.S. ISDE World Trophy teams at the event.
AMA West ISDE Qualifier Series
March 20-21: Red Mountain, Calif., Desert MC and Prospectors MC, AMA District 37 Sprint Enduro
April 17-18: Campwood, Ariz., Arizona Trail Riders, AMA AMRA
May 22-23: Craig, Colo., Enduro Colorado, AMA RMEC
AMA East ISDE Qualifier Series
May 1-2: Battle Creek Mich., BCMC, AMA Michigan Sprint Enduro
May 7-8: Plantersville, Ala., Southern Enduro Riders Association
May 29-30: Glen Daniel, W. Va., AMA Full Gas Sprint Enduro
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2021 AMA Supercross calendar update
A new updated schedule has been announced this week for the 2021 Monster Energy FIM/ AMA Supercross Championship that will see a total of 17 rounds from January 16 to May 1.
Due to the uncertainty of the ongoing Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, the original calendar now features several back-to-back rounds and Saturday and Tuesday races included.
The updates, announced by promoters Feld Entertainment, include three consecutive rounds in Georgia at Atlanta Motor Speedway and an added round at Salt Lake City in Utah. The original rounds in Arizona rounds have been cancelled and replaced with Orlando in Florida.
2021 AMA Supercross Calendar
Round 1
Houston, Texas
East
NRG Stadium
Sat, January 16
Round 2
Houston, Texas
East
NRG Stadium
Tues, January 19
Round 3
Houston, Texas
East
NRG Stadium
Sat, January 23
Round 4
Indianapolis, Indiana
East
Lucas Oil Stadium
Sat, January 30
Round 5
Indianapolis, Indiana
East
Lucas Oil Stadium
Tues, February 2
Round 6
Indianapolis, Indiana
East
Lucas Oil Stadium
Sat, February 6
Round 7
Orlando, Florida
East
Camping World Stadium
Sat, February 13
Round 8
Orlando, Florida
West
Camping World Stadium
Sat, February 20
Round 9
Daytona Beach, Florida
West
Daytona Int. Speedway
Sat, March 6
Round 10
Arlington, Texas
West
AT&T Stadium
Sat, March 13
Round 11
Arlington, Texas
West
AT&T Stadium
Tues, March 16
Round 12
Arlington, Texas
West
AT&T Stadium
Sat, March 20
Round 13
Atlanta, Georgia
West
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Sat, April 10
Round 14
Atlanta, Georgia
West
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Tues, April 13
Round 15
Atlanta, Georgia
West
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Sat, April 17
Round 16
Salt Lake City, Utah
East
Rice-Eccles Stadium
Sat, April 24
Round 17
Salt Lake City, Utah
W/E
Rice-Eccles Stadium
Sat, May 1
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2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies calendar announced
The FIM, the Portuguese Motorcycling Federation (FMP), the Automotorsport Federation of the Republic of Kazakhstan (AMFK), the Motorcycle Federation of Russia (MFR), Brazilian Motorcycle Confederation (CBM), the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Motocyclisme (FRMM) and the Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO) and local organisers have revealed the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and World Cups provisional calendar.
Date
Event
Cat 1 RallyGP
Cat 2 Rally 2
Cat 3
Grp1 Moto-Rally
Grp1 Moto-Rally
Grp2 Moto Enduro
Grp3 Quad
Adventure Trophy Grp1+3
SSV
April 9-13
BP Ultimate Portugal Rally (POR)
X
X
X
X
X
X
June 7-13
Rally Kazakhstan (KAZ)
X
X
X
X
X
July 1-11
Silkway Rally (RUS)
X
X
X
X
X
August 13-22
Rally do Sertoes (BRA)
X
X
X
X
X
October 8-13
Rallye du Maroc (MAR)
X
X
X
X
X
X
November 6-12
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge (UAE)
X
X
X
X
X
X
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2021 Racing schedule
2021 Provisional MXGP Calendar
Rnd
Grand Prix
Date
1
MXGP of Oman, Muscat
Fri 2 Apr – Sat 3 Apr
2
MXGP of Italy, TBA
Sat 24 Apr – Sun 25 Apr
3
MXGP of Portugal, Agueda
Sat 8 May – Sun 9 May
4
MXGP of The Netherlands, Oss
Sat 22 May – Sun 23 May
5
MXGP of Germany, Teutschenthal
Sat 29 May – Sun 30 May
6
MXGP of Russia, Orlyonok
Sat 12 Jun – Sun 13 Jun
7
MXGP of Latvia, Kegums
Sat 19 Jun – Sun 20 Jun
8
MXGP of Jakarta (INA), Jakarta
Sat 3 Jul – Sun 4 Jul
9
MXGP of Indonesia, Semarang
Sat 10 Jul – Sun 11 Jul
10
MXGP of Czech Replublic, Loket
Sat 24 Jul – Sun 25 Jul
11
MXGP of Belgium, Lommel
Sat 31 Jul – Sun 1 Aug
12
MXGP of Sweden, Uddevalla
Sat 7 Aug – Sun 8 Aug
13
MXGP of Finland, Iitti-KimiRing
Sat 21 Aug – Sun 22 Aug
14
MXGP of Igora Drive (RUS), Igora Drive
Sat 28 Aug – Sun 29 Aug
15
MXGP of Turkey, Afyonkarahisar
Sat 11 Sep – Sun 12 Sep
16
MXGP of China, TBA
Sat 18 Sep – Sun 19 Sep
17
MXGP of France, St Jean d’Angely
Sat 9 Oct – Sun 10 Oct
18
MXGP of Spain, intu Xanadu-Arroyomolinos
Sat 16 Oct – Sun 17 Oct
19
TBA
Sat 30 Oct – Sun 31 Oct
20
MXGP of Patagonia Argentina, Neuquen
Sat 13 Nov – Sun 14 Nov
2021 Yamaha AORC presented by MXStore calendar
Round
Location
Date
Rounds 1 & 2
Nowra, NSW
March 27-28
Rounds 3 & 4
TBA, VIC
April 17-18
Rounds 5 & 6
Kyogle, NSW
July 17-18
Rounds 7 & 8
TBA, QLD
August 6-7
Rounds 9 & 10
Kingston SE, SA
September 18-19
Rounds 11 & 12
Omeo, VIC
October 16-17
2021 Australian Pro MX calendar
Rnd
Date
Location
1
Apr-11
Wonthaggi, Victoria Classes: MX1, MX2, MX3, 125 CUP
2
May-02
Canberra, ACT Classes: MX1, MX2, MX3
3
May-30
Gilman, South Australia Classes: MX1, MX2, MX3, 125 CUP
GasGas is known for off-road racing and trials but its recent acquisition by KTM seems to have led the Spanish motorcycle company in a bit of a new direction. The company will debut in Moto3 next year.
This will be the first time ever the company has raced on a circuit. In order to do this and to hopefully have a shot at doing well, GasGas has joined up with Aspar Moto3 racing team.
Recently, the company posted a press release that discussed the team’s foray into road racing. Aspar Moto3 racing will have Jorge Martinez at its disposal, and that’s a very good thing.
It was made clear that GasGas will not be pulling back at all from off-road racing. Things will continue as they have for the company and its off-road racing efforts.
In terms of Moto3, the racers that will be used are Sergio Garcia and Izan Guevara. Both are young, but they’re good racers. They will be riding RC 250 GP race bikes, which will be powered by a 250cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine that has been Moto3 sanctioned.
They will be doing 0 to 60 mph times of around three seconds and top speeds around 140 mph. It should be a very interesting year for Moto3, indeed.
With the restart of the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship just a few weeks away, GasGas Factory Racing’s official MXGP and MX2 riders are busy completing their preparations ahead of a return to MXGP competition, armed with the new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F factory machines.
Since GasGas is now part of the larger KTM/Husqvarna/WP corporations these machines obviously inherit a lot of that Austrian technology as the company forges a new way forward under the stewardship of Stefan Pierer.
In the MXGP category Glenn Coldenhoff and Ivo Monticelli will race GasGas
Robert Jonas, VP Motorsports Offroad
“This is another milestone for GasGas Motorcycles. Knowing that Glenn, Ivo, Jeremy and Simon will be heading back into MXGP and MX2 competition on the new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F factory machines is a proud and important moment for all involved. Following GasGas’ return to top-flight motocross earlier this year, introducing these new bikes was a key next step for us. Knowing just how much both Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing and DIGA Procross GasGas Factory Juniors are looking forward to getting back to racing, for them to be able to complete their final weeks of preparations and then head into what will be a busy few months of MXGP racing with their new GasGas Factory Racing machines is really exciting. We’re really looking forward to seeing these new bikes out on track and to all of our riders continuing their 2020 MXGP and MX2 seasons.”
GasGasMC 450F
With more than four months having passed since round two of the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship, GasGas Factory Racing’s official teams – Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing and DIGA Procross GasGas Factory Juniors – are prepared for the much-anticipated and imminent restart of the MXGP series. Heading first to the Dutch International races being held at the Arnhem circuit, team riders Glenn Coldenhoff, Ivo Monticelli, Jeremy Sydow and Simon Längenfelder will all compete on the new GasGasMC 450F and MC 250F factory machines.
GasGasMC 450F
Glenn Coldenhoff
“This new bike is something I’ve really been looking forward to. It looks great and it’s really cool that we will return to racing with a new bike. Obviously, the last few months haven’t been like everyone expected but this is a special moment for us all. I’m feeling really good and my feeling with the new bike is great. I just want to get behind the gate again now and start racing.”
Glenn Coldenhoff
In the MXGP category both Glenn Coldenhoff and Ivo Monticelli are well prepared for their return to the highly competitive class. With Monticelli looking to put a frustrating start to his 2020 season behind him, Coldenhoff will resume his quest for a place inside the championship’s top five.
For MX2 class riders Jeremy Sydow and Simon Längenfelder, the upcoming MXGP of Latvia will not only allow the young duo to return to world championship competition on the new MC 250F but also to continue the impressive run of form they each displayed during the opening two GPs. The new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F will take to the track for the first time on July 26 at the Dutch International event being held at the Arnhem circuit.
Simon Längenfelder
“This new bike just makes everything better for me. Riding it feels so good, I can’t wait to be back racing again. Over the next few weeks I will continue working hard, so I am in the best shape to compete on my new GasGas.”
