One of Turkey’s megaprojects, the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, whose foundations were laid in 2017, was opened to traffic on Friday in a ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The historic Dardanelles-crossing project was commissioned on March 18, which coincides with the 107th anniversary of the Çanakkale naval victory.

Erdoğan said at the ceremony that Turkey inaugurated the world’s longest mid-span suspension bridge today, leaving behind Japan, which held first place.

“An investment of 2.5 billion euros ($2.76 billion) has been made for the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, as our country’s annual gain in terms of time, fuel consumption and carbon emissions will be 415 million euros,” Erdoğan also said.

The bridge was built under a public-private partnership model, Erdoğan reiterated, noting that the country ranks third in Europe and 13th in the world in terms of this business model.

“Calculations indicate that this project will bring 5.3 billion euros of production to our economy, the employment of 118,000 people and 2.4 billion euros of national income,” added the president.

South Korean Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum also attended the opening ceremony.

He hailed the new bridge as “a main artery of Turkey’s economy”, saying it will greatly facilitate the movement of people and goods.

This bridge will allow Turkiye to further consolidate its position as an international logistics hub connecting Europe, the Middle East, Northern Europe and Central Asia, he added.

The bridge will reduce the time needed to travel between Asia and Europe and remove obstacles that arise during crossings. Normally, traveling between the European and Anatolian sides of Çanakkale takes around 30 minutes by ferry, however, services are sometimes canceled in stormy weather and during holiday periods hours are spent queuing.

The final earthworks and paving of the bridge have recently been completed. Some 5,000 workers were employed during the construction of the project, the foundations of which were laid on March 18, 2017.

The giant structure will be connected to the Malkara-Çanakkale highway and will represent the most important part of the 101 kilometer (62.75 mile) route.

When the entire Kınalı-Tekirdağ-Çanakkale-Savaştepe highway project is connected with the Gebze-Izmir highway, a chain of highways will be formed around the Sea of ​​Marmara. Home to nearly a third of Turkey’s population, the eponymous region includes major industrial and commercial hubs.

With the completion of the project, a reduction in ferry traffic is expected, especially during the summer months and public holidays, providing alternative transport routes from the provinces of Istanbul and Thrace to the regions of Marmara and the Aegean Sea.

Ahead of Friday’s opening ceremony, Kenan Sofuoğlu, head of the Turkish Motorcycling Federation (TMF) national team, five-time Supersport World Championship winner and current Justice and Development Party (AK Party) MP ), and World Superbike Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu crossed the bridge together, waving the country’s flag.

The longest in the world

In addition to reducing travel times, the project ensures that all ports in the Marmara and Aegean regions are integrated into all transport systems.

The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge is the longest mid-span suspension bridge in the world, spanning 2,023 meters (6,637 ft) between its towers, which are painted red and white to reflect the colors of the Turkish flag.

The megaproject, undertaken by a consortium of South Korean and Turkish companies, is the country’s fourth bridge and fifth crossing to connect Asia and Europe after the July 15 Martyrs’ Bridge, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, Marmaray Railway Tunnel and Eurasia. Tunnel. It will be the first bridge to connect the two continents through the Dardanelles.

Shaped to symbolize artillery shells in homage to the legendary Battle of Gallipoli during World War I, the spiers stood 318 meters high.

The span of 2,023 meters symbolizes the year 2023, the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey. The total length of the bridge reaches 4,608 meters, including the side spans of 770 meters each and the approach viaducts of 365 meters and 680 meters.

It is a split road bridge, with three lanes in each direction. The bridge deck, which is to serve two three-lane roads, will be 45.06 meters wide and 3.5 meters high. The walkways on either side of the deck will be used for maintenance and repair.

PETALING JAYA: New father Hafizh Syahrin is all excited for the start of the World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK) season early next month.

The 27-year-old, who will be the first Malaysian to race all season, welcomed the birth of his first-born son on Thursday.

Hafizh, who is married to Noor Suzana Abdul Manaf, however, will not be able to stay with his family for long as he is due to leave later this month for pre-season testing with his MIE Racing Honda team in Europe.

Bringing a lot of experience to the team as a former MotoGP rider, Hafizh will race alongside Argentinian Leandro Mercado.

Hafizh is feeling optimistic and is aiming high at every turn.

“Being a father brings new responsibilities and new hope for sure,” Hafizh said.

“For now, I will stay focused on racing as the season is about to start.

“I want to finish in the top 10 every race and try to challenge everyone.

“I know rivals from my previous time in MotoGP, in particular Roberto Locatelli (Italy), Alvaro Bautista (Spain) and a few others.

“And there are also new rivals. I want to learn from Toprak (Turkey) because he is young and very fast and also from the legendary rider Jonathan Rea (Ireland).

Razgatlioglu, 25, won the 2021 Superbike World Championship, ending Rea’s six-year reign. Razgatlioglu is the first Turkish world champion in Superbike history.

Rea holds the most race wins (107), fastest laps, podiums and total points (over 5,000 earned through the end of August 2021).

“It’s a big challenge for me but I’ll try to give everything I have.

“I will try to use my MotoGP experience,” said Hafizh, who is also the first Malaysian to race in a WorldSBK race since Adi Haslam raced in Johor in 1993.

The 12-round championship kicks off with the first race in Aragon, Spain, April 8-10.

Ducati presents the Panigale V4 SP2: “The Ultimate Racetrack Machine”

The Panigale V4 SP2 is the top model for Ducati super sports motorcycles: a special and exciting version for track riding, even more intuitive and less tiring even for non-professional riders

Carbon fiber rims, Brembo Stylema R® brake calipers, MCS radial master cylinder, dry clutch, 520 chain, billet footpegs and a specific kit for track use: the “SP” technical specifications push to the max the racing characteristics of the Panigale V4 and accompany all the improvements made on the 2022 version

Produced in numbered series, the Panigale V4 SP2 is characterized by the “Winter Test” livery and a series of carbon fiber details

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), March 10, 2022 – In the ninth and final episode of the Ducati World Premiere 2022 web series, Ducati unveiled the new Panigale V4 SP2 to enthusiasts: a special motorcycle in a numbered series, designed to fully experience the passion of riding on the track, further increasing the performance of the Panigale V4.

The Ducati Panigale family is the maximum expression of the continuous exchange of information and technology from the world of racing to production motorcycles and with each new version it continues its evolution year after year, as happens with the prototypes Ducati Corse. The “SP2” is the model with which Ducati takes the sportiness of the Panigale V4 to the top, whose 2022 version has taken the most important evolutionary step since its creation, improving in all aspects: aerodynamics, ergonomics, engine, chassis and electronics.

The Panigale V4 SP2 stands out for its equipment with the typical technical specifications of the abbreviation “SP” (Sport Production) which are combined with all the improvements made by Ducati engineers on the Panigale V4 2022 to create the most performing Panigale in all the time.

The “SP2” version has an even more powerful braking system, lightweight carbon rims, final drive and dry clutch inherited from WorldSBK motorcycles, racing footpegs and a series carbon components. The motorcycle also comes with a kit for track use, which includes machined aluminum caps for mirror removal*, a kit for removing the license plate holder* and the open carbon clutch cover* .

The result is “The Ultimate Racetrack Machine”: a special model, ideal for the non-professional pilot who wants to experience days on the track challenging his own records.

The Panigale V4 SP2 is characterized by the “Winter Test” livery, in which the matt black of the fairings is combined with the matt carbon finish of the rims and fenders, contrasting with the bright red accents and the shine of the exposed brushed aluminum tank. The double profile fenders are adorned with the Italian flag which also appears on the official Panigale V4 R SBK. The lower part of the fairing is distinguished by the presence of the Ducati Corse logo at the level of the new hot air extractors and by a red detail bearing the name of the motorcycle, also present on the black saddle in double material. The steering head is machined in the mass and displays the progressive number of the motorcycle, making each model unique.

The heart of the Panigale V4 SP2 is the MotoGP-derived 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale: a counter-rotating crankshaft V4 with plenty of low-end torque and capable of expressing the bike’s racing soul on the track. For 2022, the Desmosedici Stradale has improved with the introduction of dedicated technical elements, which have resulted in increased power and improved throttle response.

Thanks to these interventions and a new dedicated mapping, the engine of the Euro 5 version delivers 215.5 hp at 13,000 rpm, with a power gain of 1.5 hp compared to the Panigale V4 2021 which goes up to 2.5 hp beyond maximum power peak at 14,500 rpm** .

To capitalize on the full potential of this engine, dedicated speed-by-speed torque curves and four different power modes (Full, High, Medium, Low) have been developed by Ducati. The Full and Low setups are newly developed, while the High and Medium setups use a new strategy.

When used on the track, the performance of the Desmosedici Stradale can be further enhanced with the new all-titanium Ducati Performance racing exhaust, developed in conjunction with Akrapovič and available as an accessory.

This exhaust features tall mufflers along the tail and has been redesigned to increase performance and limit noise, giving everyone the ability to ride a full racing exhaust even on the tightest sound limit tracks. With this exhaust the Panigale V4 SP2 is 5 kg lighter, bringing the dry weight of the bike to just 168 kg. The Akrapovič exhaust also guarantees a power increase of 12.5 hp, bringing the maximum value to 228 hp, while the maximum torque value rises to 131 Nm**.

The link with motorcycles racing in the Superbike World Championship is even more evident in the “SP2” version of the Panigale V4. Indeed, to the more “track oriented” gearbox already presented on the 2022 Panigale V4, this bike adds the lightened final drive with 520 chain and the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch. This clutch guarantees a more effective anti-jump function in the extreme uses of the motorcycle on the track and greater fluidity in all the “off-gas” phases compared to the oil bath clutch of the Panigale V4 S. The STM-EVO SBK clutch also offers the possibility of customizing the level of “mechanical” engine braking by choosing a secondary spring different from those available in the Ducati Performance accessories catalogue.

The Panigale V4 SP2 chassis features an aluminum front frame that uses the Desmosedici Stradale as a stressed member. The aluminum swingarm and the cast aluminum seatpost are directly connected to the motor. The swingarm pivot is positioned to increase the anti-squat effect, i.e. the reduction of rear end squat when exiting corners and when re-opening the throttle, stabilizing thus the motorcycle in acceleration.

The suspension system includes an electronically controlled 125mm travel Öhlins NPX25/30 pressurized fork up front that uses a pressurized cartridge damping system derived from racing forks. This fork, together with the Öhlins TTX36 shock absorber and the electronic steering damper, also Öhlins, forms the second generation of the Smart EC 2.0 system characterized by the OBTI logic (Objective Based Tuning Interface) which, operating “by objectives” and not by clicks, allows the pilot a much more intuitive management than traditional systems.

To further improve the track performance and dynamic qualities of the Panigale V4, the “SP2” version is equipped with 5 split-spoke carbon wheels, 1.4 kg lighter than the forged aluminum ones of the Panigale V4 S. carbon rims guarantee a significant reduction in inertia (-26% at the front, -46% at the rear) for the benefit of agility, lightness in the changes of direction and greater ease in the closing of the curves.

The Panigale V4 SP2 is also equipped with exclusive Brembo Stylema R® front brake calipers, which guarantee high stopping power combined with exceptional consistency of performance even during a long timed session without modification of the brake lever travel. The calipers are actuated by a Brembo MCS (Multiple Click System) radial pump that allows the wheelbase to be adjusted quickly and easily in three configurations to customize braking feel. The front brake lever is equipped with a “remote adjustment” device, which allows its position to be adjusted by acting on a button located on the left grip, as is the case on racing bikes. Finally, on the “SP2” version, the brake and clutch levers are milled at the ends to reduce air resistance.

Another essential element that characterizes the Panigale V4 SP2 is the equipment with Rizoma footrests in anodized aluminum with carbon fiber heel guards. The footpegs are fully adjustable and maximize ground clearance for more efficient use on the trail. These racing footpegs provide great grip for the boots, essential for riding at the limit on the circuit, further contributing to completely redesigned ergonomics in 2022 with the new tank and saddle shapes, studied to improve control and pull the most of the performance of the Panigale V4 both on the flying lap and during an extended session.

The Panigale V4 SP2 has an electronic package that includes controls that manage all driving phases, whose operating parameters are linked by default to the 4 driving modes (Race A, Race B, Sport, Street).

All the electronic parameters of the bike can be clearly viewed thanks to the dashboard and the “Track Evo” display mode, derived from that used in MotoGP. In this screen, the tachometer moves on a horizontal scale positioned in the highest part of the instrument, or the most visible, and the indication of the gear engaged is in the center of the screen. In the right area of ​​the screen there are four sectors of different colors, each dedicated to an electronic control (DTC, DWC, DSC, EBC). These sectors light up individually when the electronics are working on a certain parameter, remaining lit for the time necessary for the pilot to identify which indicator is activated. This signaling mode facilitates the task of the pilot in understanding the control which has worked to enable him to intervene in a more precise and timely manner on the choice of the optimal level and to achieve better performance more quickly. The left sector completes the information with the stopwatch, the number of laps completed and the speed.

On the “SP2” version, the GPS module is standard, thus allowing the activation of the automatic Lap Time function, which instantly provides the indication of two intermediate times of the track on which you are turning. In addition, by loading the Slick Ducati Performance software (available as an accessory), the Ducati Traction Control curves specially developed for slick and rain tires are available and the possibility of memorizing the coordinates of five different tracks is activated, as well as five others entirely customizable. Driving styles. Finally, thanks to the Ducati Data Analyzer, standard on the SP2, it is possible to carry out an in-depth analysis of all performance data.

The new Panigale V4 SP2 is available in single-seater configuration in “Winter Test” livery from March 2022.

A dynamic video and a beauty video of the new Panigale V4 SP2 are available on the Ducati YouTube channel.

#PanigaleV4SP2 #TheUltimateRacetrackMachine

* This product is intended for vehicles used exclusively in a closed circuit. Use on public roads is prohibited by law.

** These values ​​refer to Euro5 engine configuration.

Yamaha tests mechanical components and seeks acceleration improvements at Aragon test

Five riders from three teams traveled to the MotorLand Aragon site for testing as defending champion Toprak Razgatlioglu topped the timesheets

Three Yamaha teams traveled to MotorLand Aragon to continue their preparations for the 2022 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship as Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK were joined on the track by GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team and Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha at the Spanish venue . Originally scheduled for Thursday and Friday, the threat of bad weather forced all three teams to hit the track on Wednesday for a brief race before the rain fell.

Defending champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) continued his off-season testing before defending his title by taking the lead in the timesheets at Alcañiz with a time of 1:49.746. The Turkish star completed 84 laps on Thursday throughout the day, adding to his 26 laps on Wednesday for a total of 110. Razgatlioglu’s fastest lap was faster than any race lap of the heat. ‘Aragon 2021 and faster than any previous Yamaha race lap on the site. .

Team-mate Andrea Locatelli was third fastest, two-tenths behind his team-mate, but did the most laps of anyone in the test as he racked up 30 on Wednesday and 85 on Thursday for a total of 115. Pata Yamaha was primarily working on the mechanical side of their Yamaha YZF-R1 machine throughout the test, including electronic shifts, as well as research to improve the acceleration of the bike to help improve overall engine performance and Passed the entire test using Pirelli’s SC0 tyre. On the Locatelli garage side, we were also working on the suspension of his machine including different links.

It was a solid test for Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in his first test and that of the 2022 off-season team. The American posted a time of 1:49.820, just 0.074 seconds off the clock. of Razgatlioglu and chained 106 laps over the two days of testing: 21 on Wednesday and 85 on Thursday. Gerloff will rely on his strong pace to test transfers to racing when the action begins in Aragon as he sets out in search of more podium visits throughout his third year in WorldSBK.

Gerloff’s teammate Kohta Nozane was fourth fastest in his first appearance at the 2022 trials with a time of 1:51.238s. The Japanese rider, entering his second season in WorldSBK, completed 90 laps; 16 Wednesday before adding 74 Thursday. GRT Yamaha was able to test the same tank that Razgatlioglu used in the Portimao test focusing throughout the two days primarily on rider position and bike balance.

Christophe Ponsson completed the Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha field as the Frenchman completed 84 laps over the two days, adding 74 on day two of the test to the 10 he completed on Wednesday. Now in his second season with the family team, Ponsson clocked a best time of 1’52.341s throughout the test as he seeks consistent top 10 finishes.

WorldSBK time since Aragon test

1 Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) 1’49.746s, 110 laps

2. Garrett Gerloff (Team GRT Yamaha WorldSBK) 1’49.820s, 106 laps

3. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) 1’50.021s, 115 laps

4. Kohta Nozane (Team GRT Yamaha WorldSBK) 1’51.238s, 90 laps

5. Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) 1’52.341s, 84 laps

Follow all the WorldSBK action in 2022 with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Read more from a press release issued by the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team:

GERLOFF AND NOZANE COMPLETE TWO PRODUCTIVE TEST DAYS IN ARAGÓN

The GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team wrapped up its first outing of the 2022 season with two days of testing in Aragon. Plans changed a bit upon arrival in Spain due to unpredictable weather conditions forcing the team to revise the schedule and anticipate action from March 2 already.

With massive rains expected on Friday March 4, Kohta Nozane and Garrett Gerloff hit the track from Wednesday to finally start their 2022 campaign after being away from their bikes for so long. The first day served both to regain feeling and confidence, more than to plan their next steps.

Anyway, the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK team couldn’t fully enjoy the first day due to difficult weather conditions. With the track open from 1:00 p.m. local time, Gerloff and Nozane were able to do a few laps but light rain forced them to stop after a few hours.

Both drivers tried to get back on track late in the afternoon as the track seemed to dry out, but more rain fell forcing the team to complete the first day of testing. So, in the end, Garrett was able to do 21 laps with a best time of 1.51.381 while Kohta did 16 laps with 1.53.465 as his fastest lap.

On the second and final day things were much better with a sunny Thursday. The air and the asphalt were good and both Nozane and Gerloff could do a lot of laps. The GRT Yamaha WorldSBK tested new parts brought by Yamaha, such as the tank and the saddle, with positive feedback. 1.49.820 was Gerloff’s best time (85 total laps), while 1.51.238 was Nozane’s (74 total laps)

Gerloff and Nozane will therefore not return to the track on March 4 because the weather forecast announces a lot of rain on the circuit. This is why the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK team has decided to cancel this day of testing.

The next pre-season test sessions are scheduled for March 16 and 17 at Misano.

Garrett Gerloff: “It’s so epic and nice to be back on my Yamaha R1 after a long time. Yesterday, when I got back on the bike, it was quite a shock! Today was so cool to have a really dry day. We tried a bunch of new things, including new brakes, and didn’t touch the suspension or the geometry. I just focus on myself to get some rhythm and stuff. During the offseason, I worked a lot on myself to improve all aspects, from physical to mental. I feel really good and I’m happy to be back. Now let’s keep working and see how things go on another track like Misano.

Kohta Nozane: “Finally we are back. It was so long! We had a lot of test items and it was not easy to manage all the work, but in the end we are satisfied and the work done was good. It’s cool we had the opportunity to do a lot of laps today, it’s a good start for the 2022 season. Italy is like my second home!

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK takes a step forward at the Aragón test

The Pata Yamaha team with Brixx WorldSBK has accelerated its preparations for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship season at MotorLand Aragón (March 2-3), with the team, supported by Yamaha engineers, continuing to evaluate the electronics strategy and mechanical improvements to the engine and chassis. Components.

With unpredictable weather expected throughout the week in the Teruel region, the decision was made to race in the afternoon only on Wednesday, while Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli were able to complete a full day of racing in perfect conditions Thursday.

The Pata Yamaha and Brixx WorldSBK duo combined for 225 laps of the 5.078km Spanish circuit, which the team used to find improvements on a circuit that had yet to play to the strengths of the Yamaha R1 WorldSBK . That goal was achieved, with both riders showing significantly better pace than ever at Aragon.

For the second test of 2022, Razgatlıoğlu was quickly up and running on Wednesday afternoon, completing 26 laps as rain interrupted part of the session. The reigning WorldSBK champion was able to complete 84 laps on Thursday, with his best time of 1’49.746 marking Yamaha’s fastest ever Superbike lap at the Alcañiz site – backed by numerous laps in the 1′ high bracket 49 and 1’50 bass. , all mounted on standard Pirelli racing tyres.

Driving at the circuit where he made his WorldSBK debut in 2021, Locatelli was pleased with the job done throughout the test. The Italian completed a busy program on Thursday, completing 85 laps, after having run 30 the day before. He finished the test just 0.267 seconds behind his teammate in 1’50.021, demonstrating the improvements he and Yamaha have already made at this circuit.

Next up for the Pata Yamaha with the Brixx WorldSBK team will be the Barcelona test on March 25-26, where the team will race in their 2022 livery for the first time.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: 110 laps – 1’49.746

“We had a great test in Aragon, I’m surprised! Yesterday we had sunshine then rain, not many laps, but today we were very lucky with perfect weather all day. It might not be my best track but we were very quick and consistent so I’m happy for that! Today I felt like a test rider, there was so much to try, but we are also fast and I enjoyed it! Yamaha and the team are working hard, we’ve made a big improvement on 21… a 1’49 with SC0 tires isn’t so bad! Maybe now Aragon is a better track for me! The next test is Catalunya, we will put together the best package from test parts and electronics and try to improve again.

Andrea Locatelli: 115 laps – 1’50.021

“We are very happy because we did a lot of laps and we also had a good grip here in Aragón. The feeling is coming back better now after Portimão. Today we worked on the settings of the bike and now the feelings are really good. Now we will continue the development before arriving at the Barcelona test. I’m also happy because I couldn’t drive as much as today on this circuit. The team has done a great job and we didn’t make any mistakes. Now we’re looking forward to what’s next, my level is improving and so is R1.

On the front cover: When Hogs Fly: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich rides the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special 131R of MotoAmerica King of the Baggers title winner Kyle Wyman at India Motorsports Ranch. Photo courtesy of Harley-Davidson.

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In this problem:

CHARACTERISTICS

Interior Info: 2022 Harley-Davidson Road Glide ST and Street Glide ST; Honda CBR500R, CB500F and CB500X; Indian scout thief; KTM 890 Duke R, and more…

Historical Racing Motorcycle Illustrations: 1992 ROC Yamaha 500cc Grand Prix V-4 Two Stroke

Race Bike Test: MotoAmerica Championship Winner Kyle Wyman’s Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special 131R Bagger

MotoGP analysis: how Kalex took control of the Moto2 world championship

MotoGP analysis: Remy Gardner, second generation world champion

Publisher’s Scrapbook: The Great Adventure of Garrett Gerloff

Collections: Karl Lehmann Foundation and Schoenewald Collection

PRO RACE

Army of Darkness Endurance 2021 Part 2: Race Confirmation Bias

COLUMNS

Letters to the editor: ER visit; Race to Vacaville; remember a friend

10 years ago, March 2012: Riding the Performance Kawasaki ZX-10R AMA Superbike Attack; Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Triumph Speed ​​Triple tested; Mat Oxley interviews five-time world champion Giacomo Agostini

Facts and Figures: Garrett Gerloff’s Racing Career

The Children’s Page: Carter Dreher

The Crash page: Losing the front at Barber

New products: electric bicycles, helmet spoiler; Engine oil

Race, school and track day calendar: where and when to ride

ASRA/CCS bulletin

High performance parts and services

Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: 2022 Brings New Sponsors, New Riders For MotoAmerica Season

The entry list for the 2022 Daytona 200, featuring the MotoAmerica Supersport class, was released by MotoAmerica and includes 50 riders. The 80th edition of the classic race is scheduled for March 12 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Entry lists for recent Daytona 200 races have been larger: 68 in 2021, 78 in 2020, 68 in 2019, 65 in 2018 and 69 in 2017 for an average of 69.6 runners per event.

Entry lists for the MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers, MotoAmerica Twins Cup and RSD Super Hooligan classes have also been released.

Registrations are closed for the event.

While the new Daytona 200 entry list is smaller than it has been in the recent past, there are once again talented riders on the field.

Starting at the top of MotoAmerica’s entry list, which is ordered by competition numbers, is No. 2 Josh Herrin. 2010 Daytona 200 race winner Herrin rides an HSBK Racing Ducati NYC Panigale V2 Warhorse, which he tested at Daytona in January.

Herrin’s bike is one of four Ducati Panigale V2 955cc V-Twins in the field. Big Ducatis, Triumph’s 765cc Street Triple RS, MV Agusta’s 800 798cc F3 triple and Suzuki’s GSX-R750 inline-four are eligible to race against traditional 599cc inline-four sportbikes this year in part of the new FIM/MotoAmerica Supersport Next Generation Rules.

Then there’s Josh Hayes, who is listed as riding a Squid Hunter Yamaha. Squid Hunter Racing has significant racing experience at Daytona, and Hayes, a four-time AMA Superbike champion, has trained almost as hard as ever, he says, and feels he has unfinished business after being stripped of his victory at Daytona 200 in 2008 due to a technical infraction.

Rising star Kevin Olmedo of El Salvador looks back on the updated Yamaha BobbleHeadMoto/N2 Racing he raced in the 2021 Daytona 200. Olmedo’s teammate for the event will be former racer Chris Peris AMA Pro and World Supersport currently racing and winning in the N2 / WERA National Endurance Championship with Army of Darkness.

Some of the biggest names on the entry list are Jake Gagne and Cameron Petersen. Gagne won 17 of 20 races and the 2021 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and finished second in the 2014 Daytona 200. South African Petersen also won a MotoAmerica Superbike race in 2021, but he has never raced at Daytona before, let alone in the Daytona 200. Gagne and Petersen will ride Attack Performance Yamaha YZF-R6s, as the Daytona 200 Supersport race is outside of the Fresh N Lean, Progressive and Yamaha team’s MotoAmerica Superbike deal.

Mexican rider Richie Escalante joins South African Sam Lochoff and veteran Geoff May in a three-way effort for Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki. The three pilots are registered to pilot GSX-R600. May has extensive racing experience at Daytona, and Lochoff won the ASRA Team Challenge endurance race at Daytona in October 2021. Escalante has never raced in the Daytona 200, but he did the AMA Supersport race at Daytona in 2014.

Four-time Daytona 200 race winner Danny Eslick returns to the high banks in search of the fifth win, which would tie him with Miguel Duhamel and Scott Russell for the most Daytona 200 wins. Eslick will ride for TOBC Racing on a Triumph Street Triple RS 765. Eslick will team up with 2021 Daytona 2021 winner Brandon Paasch, who won the race on a Yamaha before spending most of 2021 racing a Triumph Street Triple RS 765. Paasch will run its a normal #96 and not a #1, he told Roadracingworld.com.

Sheridan Morais, a South African now living in Portugal, looks back on the Daytona 200 with SYNTAINICS Racing Team and a Yamaha. Morais is a MotoAmerica Stock 1000 race winner and former Supersport World Championship winner who currently competes in the FIM Endurance World Championship.

After winning the Daytona 200 with Paasch in 2021, TSE Racing returns to Daytona with Harry Truelove, a British driver who won a British Supersport race in 2021.

Of the 50 runners entered for the race, 14 different nationalities are represented.

Editorial note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the lower left corner of the PDF viewer to see the entry lists for the four classes racing at Daytona.

List of Daytona registrants

19.02.2022 |
WorldSBK Staff |
WorldSBK

Althea Racing unveiled its 2022 Ducati Panigale V2 on Saturday as it returns to the World Superbike paddock after a two-year absence.

Returning to contest the newly adapted Supersport World Championship, Althea will manage 2019 runner-up Federico Caricasulo as the Ravenna rider moves to Bologna machines for the coming season after five years with Yamaha.

“I was immediately happy to race with Althea Racing, a team rich in experience and with an incredible track record,” Caricasulo said of this new opportunity.

“My first impressions of the bike and the team were good and the first tests carried out convinced me even more that I had made the right choice. The bike is beautiful and I already feel at home. I hope I can make Genesio Bevilacqua and the boys proud of me.

“We came back for the fun of it,” confirmed Team Manager Bevilacqua.

“The guys asked me for a challenge and Supersport is the right category to test us in the way we like the most: experience and personal skills rather than technology and unlimited means.

“We want to be the immediate protagonists of this “new generation”, with the lightness but also the seriousness that has always distinguished us. We have chosen the right challenge, the right driver and the right partners and we are sure that we can bring the DNA of Althea Racing back to the track.

The Japanese brand has been a mainstay of the Dakar since the event’s inception in 1979, claiming nine victories in the motorcycle category since then.

However, his last triumph was in 1998, when Stéphane Peterhansel claimed the last of his six Dakar victories on two wheels on a Yamaha.

Success has been harder to come by in recent years amid KTM and Honda dominance, with its last podium finish dating back to 2014 when Olivier Pain finished third.

Adrien van Beveren was Yamaha’s top finisher at the 2022 edition in Saudi Arabia last month in fourth place.

Despite the end of its factory motorcycle presence, Yamaha will not abandon the Dakar altogether, as it is committed to continuing to support the SSV class.

“While the Dakar Rally has mostly managed to stay close to its roots, even when it has left its spiritual home of Africa, the world in which it exists has changed significantly,” said Eric de Seynes, president of Yamaha Motor. Europe.

“Our off-road customers now have different expectations and they are looking for different products, and we have to meet that if we want to stay connected.

“It is for this reason that we have decided to end our long history on two wheels in the Dakar Rally and in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, while simultaneously reinforcing our commitment to racing the Dakar on four wheels with the Yamaha YXZ1000R SSV.”

Outside of the Dakar, Yamaha have had some success in the FIM series of off-road rallies, with Helder Rodrigues crowned riders’ champion with the brand in 2011.

Van Beveren finished second in points last year behind KTM’s Matthias Walkner, while teammate Ross Branch took victory in Rally Kazakhstan.

F1 and the FIA ​​have come under fire over how the final laps were handled in last year’s season finale, prompting the investigation by new FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem at the winter course.

The result sees Masi replaced as F1 race director by WEC race director Eduardo Freitas and former DTM race director Niels Wittich who will alternate the role, while former assistant race director Herbie Blash was appointed as an adviser. main.

Blash acted as the right-hand man to former F1 race director Charlie Whiting until he stepped down as assistant race director at the end of the 2016 season. Since then Blash has worked as a consultant for Yamaha on its World Superbike programme.

Other race control modifications will also be installed this year, with remote assistance from an off-site FIA ​​installation that has been compared to video assistant referee (VAR) in football.

The radio communication between the teams and the race management will also no longer be broadcast, while the relaunch procedure under the safety car will be reviewed.

Who are Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich?

Eduardo Freitas

Like former F1 race director Charlie Whiting, Eduardo Freitas began his motorsport career as a mechanic, first with a passion for motorcycles before entering the world of karting in 1979.

The Portuguese progressed from a track marshal until he became a race director in karting.

Freitas was working as race director at Estoril in 2002 when he was asked to take charge of the FIA ​​GT and ETCC championships for one season and remained in that role until the end of 2009.

The FIA ​​then promoted Freitas to the FIA ​​GT1 World Championship before becoming Race Director for the World Endurance Championship in 2012. He also acts as Race Director in European Le Mans Series and Asian Le Mans Series .

Niels Wittich

Niels Wittich is the former race director of the DTM series, having stepped down at the end of 2021 when he was already set to move to F1 for 2022 full-time as Michael Masi’s support.

The German had previously been appointed race director for the FIA ​​F2 and F3 championships, while supporting the F1 race director at certain events.

Niels Wittich (right) talks to Lucas Auer

Picture by: Gruppe C GmbH

Why are Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich replacing Michael Masi?

New FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem, who was elected to replace Jean Todt outgoing just days after the Abu Dhabi GP, made one of his first promises to investigate the F1 race and… adopt changes determined by the results.

Ben Sulayem has announced that Masi will be replaced as F1 race director after his role in the Abu Dhabi final when he only allowed run-in cars between title fighters Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen to run , setting up a final-round showdown that the Dutch driver won to clinch his first F1 world title.

This seemed to contradict all previous safety care restart procedures leaving all or none of the spun cars running while the race also started before the end of the lap cars were allowed to pass the leaders as instructed in the F1 rulebook. If this rule had been followed, the race would have ended behind the safety car with Hamilton ahead of Verstappen and therefore 2021 F1 world champion.

As part of the analysis of the Abu Dhabi GP investigation, Ben Sulayem deemed it necessary to replace Masi with Freitas and Wittich who will share the role of F1 race director.

What experience do they have in motorsport?

Eduardo Freitas

Eduardo Freitas has been the ubiquitous race director of the World Endurance Championship since its first race in its current inception in March 2012. He has taken charge of all WEC events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, while he has over 40 years of experience. motorsport experience.

Niels Wittich

Niels Wittich was most recently DTM race director while also working as part of the F1 race control team at several events in 2021.

Have they ever worked in F1?

Eduardo Freitas

Freitas has not worked directly in F1 before, but has worked alongside Michael Masi and his predecessor Charlie Whiting at FIA conferences and meetings of race directors within the governing body, including the Grand Portugal Prize 2020 in Portimao.

Niels Wittich

Wittich was on duty at several F1 races in 2021 as support for Michael Masi and was set to make that role permanent for 2022 ahead of the Abu Dhabi GP investigation.

Michael Masi, Race Director

Photo by: Jerry André / Motorsport Images

What will change in Formula 1?

Michael Masi will no longer be in charge of Formula 1 racing. Instead, the role will be shared by Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich, with the help of Herbie Blash who will take on a senior advisory role, starting from the test of Barcelona pre-season from February 23 to 25.

Race control will also benefit from remote assistance from an off-site FIA ​​facility which will assist the race director with decisions from a virtual race control room. It will be connected in real time to the F1 race director and will help enforce sporting regulations.

Direct radio communications during track sessions between teams and the clerk of the course will be restricted and not broadcast on TV, but teams will still be able to ask questions of the clerk of the course as part of a new, non-intrusive process.

Relaunch procedures behind a safety car at F1 races will also be reviewed by the F1 Sporting Advisory Committee and presented to the next F1 committee.

What will happen to Michael Masi?

Michael Masi has been offered a new position within the FIA ​​but will not be involved in setting up F1 race direction. It is believed that the new role offered to Masi will be a security role.

PIRELLI UNVEILS THE NEW DIABLO ROSSO IV CORSA

THE MOST SPORTY TIRE IN THE DIABLO ROSSO FAMILY, AVAILABLE IN THE CELEBRATORY EDITION OF 150 YEARS OF PIRELLI

Ideal for riders who want to improve the performance of their motorcycles

Better grip, improved “fast” handling and consistent performance

Bi-compound system on both front and rear tire

Smoother tread compared to DIABLO ROSSO IV

Race-derived technologies applied to profiles and structures

Milan (Italy) February 10, 2022 – Pirelli presents the new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa, the high-performance hypersport tire that raises the bar for sporty driving even higher within the DIABLO ROSSO family. The new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa represents a fiercer version of the DIABLO ROSSO IV supersport tire, created to satisfy the most demanding motorcyclists looking for a tire capable of high performance, to fully exploit the potential of their motorcycle.

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa was born the year Pirelli celebrates its 150th anniversary and becomes part of the celebrations. In 2022, a limited edition DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa pays tribute to this milestone and features the Pirelli 150th anniversary logo on its side.

Founded in Milan on January 28, 1872, the company began its activity with diversified rubber products, manufacturing the first bicycle tire in 1890. Always passionate about competition, Pirelli took part in the first motorcycle races in 1897 and continues today. today with the role of sole supplier. in the Superbike World Championship, a collaboration that began in 2004, in addition to being the most successful brand in MXGP. Today, Pirelli is the only tire company focused exclusively on the consumer world, with products and services for cars, motorcycles and bicycles.

Who is the DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa intended for?

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is the ideal choice for:

Motorcyclists who like a dynamic riding style on winding roads and mountain passes, who want a tire to match the sporting performance of their motorcycle;
Motorcyclists who are passionate about tuning, who seek performance improvements and take care of the configuration and aesthetics of the bike. These motorcyclists are looking for the optimal configuration of their motorcycle according to the type of use, also by upgrading to high-performance equipment. They also recognize the lightning bolt tread design, here interrupted, as the iconic symbol representing DIABLO ROSSO sporting performance.

The advantages of the DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa:

The main advantages of the DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa are:

Superior grip in dry conditions, thanks to a smoother tread design that guarantees a larger footprint area alongside the use of innovative compounds that increase levels of mechanical grip;
Improved high performance handling and precise feedback. The innovative technologies applied to the carcass make DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa able to adhere to the micro-roughness of the asphalt, ensuring precise feedback and a feeling of control;
Consistency of performance over several driving sessions, made possible by the characteristics of the tread, where the desired repetition of the grooves provides high resistance to stress and, through the new arrangement of the compounds, ensures an optimal thermal balance.

THE TIRE IN DETAIL

Tread pattern

The tread design of the DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa features a calculated repetition of the central grooves and a smoother shoulder area, for a void/fill ratio of 25%[1] inferior to DIABLO ROSSO IV.

In the central area, the group of longitudinal grooves provides directional stability and water evacuation. Their orientation follows the waves of wear and allows even wear, while their position increases the structural stability of the tire to give consistent performance over multiple riding sessions.

In the middle zone, linear grooves of varying lengths are positioned in a pattern that balances compound flexibility and water evacuation. DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa features a large smooth area on the shoulders, capable of delivering high levels of grip, precision and stability at maximum lean angles.

Compounds

The front tire is divided into three zones using two different compounds:

The central band has a Full Silica compound which occupies approximately 45% of the width of the section and is present in the contact area used up to 25 degrees of inclination angle;
The side areas have a softer compound, also Full Silica, thanks to the use of innovative resins that provide excellent grip and improve the return of the front tire.
The rear tire also features a dual compound pattern for excellent on-road performance and works in harmony with the front:

Full Silica core compound provides rapid heat-up and excellent chemical adhesion on varying surface conditions;
The shoulder compound is 100% carbon black and derives directly from the DIABLO Supercorsa SC compounds used in racing competitions. This compound is able to offer support at full lean and traction during acceleration by managing the torque generated by the latest generation superbikes.

Profiles

Pirelli exploits all the know-how acquired in the fastest production-derived motorcycle championship. The profiles of the DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa are therefore derived from racing and are characterized by a multi-spoke design which improves the handling of the tire.

The central area has a sharper profile to facilitate immediate leaning and quick direction changes. In the lateral areas, on the other hand, the curvature of the profile is less accentuated in order to increase the contact surface and ensure maximum traction when cornering. The front and rear tires follow a similar profile design, ensuring a perfectly balanced and neutral behavior of the whole.

Structure

With DIABLO ROSSO IV, Corsa Pirelli uses a racing-derived structure with a zero-degree steel belt, which manages to adapt perfectly to different stress levels without compromising comfort and works optimally with electronic control systems the most advanced.

Rigid cord technology presents structural cords that are stiffer and at the same time distributed with less density (-20%) compared to a standard sports tire[2]. This pattern leaves more room for the rubber compound, which improves riding feel and precision thanks to its damping properties, giving the rider a feeling of safety and control of the bike.

Range

The DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa range includes the following sizes.

Front

110/70 ZR 17 M/C 54W TL 07/2022

120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL 01/2022

Back

150/60 ZR 17 M/C 66W TL 07/2022

180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL 01/2022

180/60 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL 03/2022

190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL 06/2022

190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL 01/2022

200/55 ZR 17 M/C (78W) TL 04/2022

200/60 ZR 17 M/C (80W) TL 04/2022