Race-inspired thrills come standard.
It’s just you vs. the road in the Veloster N, with up to 275 horsepower.
Optional Performance Package required to achieve 275 horsepower. Estimated horsepower based on premium fuel. Use of regular fuel will result in reduced horsepower. Optional features shown. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. Š2019 Hyundai Motor America.
CONTENTS 2019 FLAGS & LIGHTS Green Flag: The track is clear. Blue Flag: Indicates to a rider that he is about to be overtaken. Yellow Flag: Waved at each row of the starting grid, this flag indicates that the start of the race is delayed. • A single yellow flag waved at the flag marshal post indicates that there is a danger ahead beside the track. • Two yellow flags waved together at the flag marshal post indicate that there is a hazard wholly or partly blocking the track. The riders must slow down and be prepared to stop. Overtaking is forbidden under yellow flags. Yellow and Red Striped Flag: The adhesion on this section of the track could be affected by any reason other than rain. White Flag with Diagonal Red Cross: Drops of rain on this section of the track. White Flag with Diagonal Red Cross and Yellow and Red Striped Flag: Rain on this section of the track. White Flag: It is raining at some parts of the circuit. Red Flag and Red Lights: When the race or practice is being interrupted, the red flag will be waved at each flag marshal post and the red lights around the track will be switched on. Riders must return slowly to the pits.
44
2 I Welcome from FIM
55 I WorldSBK Entries
4 I Welcome from WeatherTech
56 I Spotlight: Tom Sykes
6 I Timetable
Raceway Laguna Seca
8 I Paddock Show
10 I Autographs 14 I Track Facts and Map 16 I Track News
18 I SCRAMP Officials
T O P RI G H T : B RI A N J. N E L S O N; B O T T O M L E F T: MI C H A E L T R O U T M A N / D M T IM A G IN G
Honda Team
60 I Rider Profiles
68 I 2018 Event Recap
I
74 Spotlight: Cameron Beaubier
77 I Spotlight: Josh Herrin
I
80 EBC Brakes Superbike Preview
24 I Bikes on the Golden Gate Bridge
26 I Stay Connected
90 I Liqui Moly Junior Cup
30 I Motorcycle Racing and
88 I Supersport Preview Preview
92 I Stock 1000 Preview
38 I Spotlight: Álvaro Bautista
94 I Twins Cup Preview
41 I Spotlight: Jonathan Rea
96 I Calendar
44 I WorldSBK Preview
Black Flag with Orange Disc: This flag is used to convey instructions to one rider only and is waved at each flag marshal post together with the rider’s number. This flag informs the rider that his motorcycle has mechanical problems likely to endanger himself or others, and that he must immediately leave the track. Checkered Flag: Indicates the finish of race or practice session.
SBK MOTUL
80
58 I Spotlight: Moriwaki Althea
22 I Fan Activities and Entertainment
Laguna Seca: A History of Thrills
Black Flag: This flag is used to convey instructions to one rider only and is waved at each flag marshal post together with the rider’s number. The rider must stop at the pits at the end of the current lap and cannot restart. This flag will be waved only after the rider’s team has been notified.
8
60
55
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
1
WELCOME TO
WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA
e are delighted to return here to the fabulous WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for one of the most popular rounds of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. As in previous seasons, the 2019 campaign will welcome several changes in race format and technical rules to ensure that this series continues to deliver the best action out on track, while respecting both safety and the current global economic situation. Proving its ability to adapt and respond to the
Ever since the FIM Superbike World Championship series was first conceived back in the late ’80s, it has been
challenges that it has faced over more recent seasons,
recognized as an important racing platform for many of
the 2019 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship
the leading motorcycle brands that have all enjoyed their
again boasts an extensive calendar that started in the
own successes out on track over the past 30-year period.
southern hemisphere, before moving on from Thailand
While ever evolving, today it still remains the principal
to a packed schedule of races back in Europe from April through July.
road-race championship for production-based models. The continued cooperation between all key
This event marks the start to the
stakeholders has been core to the ongoing success of the
closing sequence of the championship
series, as has been the huge amount of work that is done
that returns to Europe briefly before
by all involved to maintain the excellent standards that
climaxing with the final two events in
exist with the championship today.
Argentina and Qatar. Having secured his fourth FIM
On behalf of the FIM I would like to offer my thanks to our promoter Dorna WSBK Organization, our
Superbike World Championship in a
nationals federations, the local organizers, our FIM
row, and with more race wins than
officials, the many volunteers, the riders, the teams, the
any other rider in the long history of
manufacturers, the media, plus all associated partners and sponsors.
Jonathan Rea aboard his Kawasaki remains the man
Finally, thanks to you, the fans, who bring so much
to beat in the blue-ribbon class, having surpassed his
passion and support to our sport. I hope you really enjoy
compatriot Carl Fogarty who previously held these
the 2019 season and are looking forward to the many
records. Also, it would be impossible to reflect on last
battles that will take place out on track.
year’s Championship without giving a special mention to Spain’s Ana Carrasco, who showed her absolute class among her rivals by becoming the FIM Supersport 300 World Champion. 2
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
INCERELY, S JORGE VIEGAS PRESIDENT, FIM
SBK MOTUL
T O P: D M T IM A G IN G ; B O T T O M : RE B EC C A B O W RIN G
the series that dates back to 1988, Northern Ireland’s
WELCOME, RACE FANS! elcome to WeatherTech
Across the bridge and into the Hagerty Marketplace,
Raceway Laguna Seca,
you’ll find activities, manufacturer displays like Ducati
America’s most exciting
Island, food and beverages and many exhibitors selling
road course. We are thrilled you are here to witness the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship GEICO U.S. Round with MotoAmerica.
must-have items. Our Official Raceway Store located in the paddock also has a satellite presence in the Marketplace, which are the only places to purchase official event merchandise to commemorate your race visit.
We are also proud that World Superbike again selected
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca offers abundant
Monterey County’s WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
viewing locations. There’s not a bad seat in the house,
for its only U.S. stop on its international calendar.
whether you’re in the Turn 4 or the always popular Turn 2
You are an important reason why these premier teams
hillside overlooking the Andretti Hairpin. But there is still
return to Monterey. Your friendliness and enthusiasm is
only one location in all of motorsports that challenges riders
genuinely welcomed and embraced by the teams.
with a dramatic six-story drop winding left-right-left down
Both World Superbike and MotoAmerica championships are being decided, with valuable championship points in
Turns 8 and 8A. Better known simply as The Corkscrew. The County of Monterey—which owns and operates
reach. This year features so much action—both on-track
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca—is very active
racing and off-track entertainment. A highlight not to be
on enhancing your experience. The new permanent
missed is the Paddock Show with Michael Hill. You will
restrooms, enhanced WiFi connectivity, widening the
meet racing legends, hear race commentary, ask riders’
Marketplace and greater hospitality options are just a
questions and have opportunities for prizes. It’s geared
taste of what’s to come. There are many more projects
toward the entire family, so bring the kids, as they just
as part of the master plan being developed that will
might be called on stage!
continually improve your experience at road racing’s spiritual home in the United States. But, at the same time, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will never lose its racing spirit where legends like Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson, Valentino Rossi, and the late Nicky Hayden all found glory during their racing days. We are here to help make your experience at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca the best ever. Please allow any one of the hundreds of volunteers who comprise the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) to provide assistance, directions or answer any questions you may have. It is through the dedication of these men and women without whom our events would not be possible. On behalf of the County of Monterey, SCRAMP and the staff of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, thank you for coming. We look forward to sharing motorsports events at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with fans for generations to come.
V E RN F IS H E R
SINCERELY, TIMOTHY P. MCGRANE CEO, WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA
4
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
TIMETABLE 2019
JULY 12 14*
WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA
US ROUND
FRIDAY, JULY 12 TIME
DURATION
CATEGORY
PROGRAM
7:55 – 8:15
0:20
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup
Free Practice 1
8:25 – 8:45
0:20
MotoAmerica Stock 1000
Free Practice 1
8:55 – 9:15
0:20
MotoAmerica Supersport
Free Practice 1
9:25 – 9:45
0:20
MotoAmerica Twins Cup
Free Practice 1
10:30 – 11:20
0:50
WorldSBK
Free Practice 1
11:30 – 12:15
0:45
MotoAmerica Superbike
Qualifying 1
12:25 – 12:40
0:15
Manufacturer Parade Laps
12:40 – 1:00
0:20
VIP Hot Laps
1:10 – 1:40
0:30
MotoAmerica Supersport
Qualifying 1
1:50 – 2:35
0:45
MotoAmerica Superbike
Qualifying 2
3:00 – 3:50
0:50
WorldSBK
Free Practice 2
4:00 – 4:20
0:20
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup
Qualifying 1
4:30 – 4:50
0:20
MotoAmerica Stock 1000
Qualifying 1
5:00 – 5:20
0:20
MotoAmerica Twins Cup
Qualifying 1
5:50 – 6:50
1:00
Ducati Track Walk
SATURDAY, JULY 13 TIME
DURATION
CATEGORY
PROGRAM
8:30 – 8:50
0:20
MotoAmerica Twins Cup
Qualifying 2
9:00 – 9:20
0:20
WorldSBK
Free Practice 3
9:30 – 9:55
0:25
MotoAmerica Superbike
Free Practice 3
10:00 – 10:20
0:20
MotoAmerica Stock 1000
Qualifying 2
10:30 – 10:45
0:15
MotoAmerica Superbike
Superpole
11:00 – 11:25
0:25
WorldSBK
Tissot Superpole
11:35 – 11:55
0:20
Fan Parade Lap
11:55 – 12:15
0:20
VIP Hot Laps
12:30
MotoAmerica Twins Cup
1:00 – 1:30
Pit Walk 1 and Safety Car Laps
0:30
RACE
12 laps – 43,920 km
2:00
WorldSBK
RACE 1
25 laps – 90,250 km
3:15
Motul Superbike
RACE 1
23 laps – 84,180 km
4:10
MotoAmerica Stock 1000
RACE
12 laps – 43,920 km
SUNDAY, JULY 14 TIME
DURATION
CATEGORY
PROGRAM
8:30 – 8:50
0:20
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup
Qualifying 2
9:00 – 9:15
0:15
WorldSBK
Warm Up
9:25 – 9:40
0:15
MotoAmerica Superbike
Warm Up
9:50 – 10:20
0:30
MotoAmerica Supersport
Qualifying 2
11:00
WorldSBK
Tissot Superpole Race
10 laps – 36,600 km
11:30 – 11:55
0:25
Ducati Parade Lap
11:55 – 12:15
0:20
VIP Hot Laps RACE
12 laps – 43,920 km
12:30
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup
1:00 – 1:30
Pit Walk 1 & Safety Car Laps
0:30
2:00
WorldSBK
RACE 2
25 laps – 90,250 km
3:15
MotoAmerica Superbike
RACE 2
23 laps – 84,180 km
4:10
MotoAmerica Supersport
RACE
19 laps – 69,540 km
*This is a provisional schedule that is subject to change. Please refer to www.WeatherTechRaceway.com for the most up-to-date schedule.
6
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER
TISSOT (DORNA AD)
TISSOT T-RACE. CHRONOGRAPH WATCH INSPIRED BY MOTORBIKES. TI S S OT WATC H E S .CO M TISSOT, INNOVATORS BY TRADITION
PADDOCK SHOW For more than 30 years, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has given fans unrivaled access to its riders, a unique attraction of the series
takes center stage in the WorldSBK Fan Zone this year. Promising to be bigger
and better, it will continue to entertain fans from around the globe in a way never seen before! With more chances to meet your favorite riders and a range of new interactive activities that are sure to keep you thoroughly entertained, be sure to pass by during the weekend. Saturday’s SuperShow will be the highlight for many, with competitions and new-look meet-and-
8
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
greet sessions featuring every single rider, allowing fans to get closer than ever to the stars of WorldSBK. Continuing its tradition from last year, the Paddock Show will also see many of the stars of the MotoAmerica Championships taking part in interviews and activities throughout the weekend. Saturday and Sunday’s traditional race-day shows remain, although they too are given a sleek new look and feel with riders appearing on the stage moments after the podium celebrations. SBK MOTUL
IN S E T: K E N W EIS E N B E R G E R; A L L O T H E R S : W O RL D S B K
T
he Paddock Show once again
Be part of the #paddockshow action on Twitter or Instagram using the official event hashtag: #USAWorldSBK. We hope you enjoy your time in the Fan Zone and look forward to seeing you at the Paddock Show!
With live commentary of all qualifying sessions and races, the 2019 Paddock Show will be more adrenalinefilled than ever before. Fans continue to have the opportunity to win WorldSBK-branded goodies throughout the weekend and can have their photo taken with their racing heroes before picking up a WorldSBK souvenir at one of the many outlets in the Fan Zone. For those new to WorldSBK, the Paddock Show can be found in the paddock and is clearly marked. There are also directions positioned around the circuit to help you find your way. â—— SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
9
AUTOGRAPHS
PRIVILEGE PASS Take this page of your program to the designated Fast Track sign at the Paddock Show and jump to the front of the line for autographs!
RE B EC C A B O W RIN G
10
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
REWRITE HISTORY IN 3.96 SECONDS THE 2020 LEXUS RC F TRACK EDITION It’s time for a different path to performance. One that begins from a place of refinement. Because when you craft exhilaration with the same attention to detail you apply to crafting indulgence, you don’t merely repeat history, you write your own. Introducing the all-new 2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition, featuring a 472-horsepower1 5.0-liter V8 engine, a titanium exhaust, class-leading power-to-weight ratio,2 carbon-ceramic disc brakes3 and an RC F GT3–inspired carbon fiber rear wing. Capable of going 0 to 60 mph in a staggering 3.96 seconds.4 We didn’t settle for just a performance car; we demanded intensity with elegance, then crafted a Lexus for the track. We come from somewhere else. So we feel like nothing else. lexus.com/RCF | #LexusRCF
Options shown. 1. Ratings achieved using the required premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. If premium fuel is not used, performance will decrease. 2. 2020 RC F vs. 2018/2019 competitors. Information from manufacturers’ websites as of 12/4/2018. 3.High-friction brakes may require additional maintenance, be louder and have a shorter life than conventional brakes, depending on driving conditions. See the Warranty and Services Guide for more information. 4. AMCI Testing Certified. ©2019 Lexus
Options shown. 1. Ratings achieved using the required premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. If premium fuel is not used, performance will decrease. 2. 2020 RC F vs. 2018/2019 competitors. Information from manufacturers’ websites a
PASSION
POWERING THE
BARNI RACING TEAM XAVI FORES
BARNI RACING TEAM
MICHAEL RUBEN RINALDI
www.motul.com
C RE D I T
12
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
FOR
PASSION
C RE D I T
INVENTION
www.motul.com SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
13
TRACK FACTS 2018 RESULTS WORLD SUPERBIKE RACE 1 POSITION
NO
RIDER
TEAMS
BIKE
GAP
FASTEST LAP
1
1
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
—
01:23.248
2
7
Chaz Davies
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
Ducati Panigale R
2.978
01:23.041
3
22
Alex Lowes
Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team
Yamaha YZF R1
12.212
01:23.561
WORLD SUPERBIKE RACE 2 POSITION
NO
RIDER
TEAMS
BIKE
GAP
FASTEST LAP
1
1
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
—
01:23.480
2
7
Chaz Davies
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
Ducati Panigale R
5.099
01:23.625
3
50
Eugene Laverty
Milwaukee Aprilia
Aprilia RSV4 RF
6.711
01:23.660
MOTOAMERICA SUPERBIKE RACE 1 POSITION
NO
RIDER
TEAMS
BIKE
GAP
FASTEST LAP
1
6
Cameron Beaubier
Monster Energy/Yamalube/Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha YZF R1
—
01:24.527
2
2
Josh Herrin
Attack Performance/Herrin Compound
Yamaha YZF R1
5.403
01:24.638
3
95
Roger Hayden
Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing
Suzuki GSX-R1000
9.012
01:24.878
14
POSITION
NO
RIDER
TEAMS
BIKE
GAP
FASTEST LAP
1
6
Cameron Beaubier
Monster Energy/Yamalube/Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha YZF R1
—
01:24.472
2
1
Toni Elias
Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing
Suzuki GSX-R1000
6.07
01:24.818
3
95
Roger Hayden
Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing
Suzuki GSX-R1000
6.392
01:24.815
MOTOAMERICA SUPERSPORT WINNER
MOTOAMERICA TWINS CUP WINNER
MOTOAMERICA JUNIOR CUP WINNER
JD Beach
Jason Madama
Alex Dumas
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
MI C H A E L T R O U T M A N / D M T IM A G IN G
MOTOAMERICA SUPERBIKE RACE 2
CIRCUIT MAP
WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA GENERAL DATA
TURN BANKING
Length:
2.238 mi / 3.610 km
Turn-In
Apex
Exit
Direction:
Counterclockwise
Turn 1:
3.3%
11.9%
2.8%
Turns:
11 (six left, four right, one esse)
Turn 2:
4.4%
3.8%
1.9%
Elevation Range:
929 ft. – 749 ft. (180-ft. difference)
Turn 3:
2.8%
3.2%
0.5%
Track Width Range:
50 ft. – 30 ft. (20-ft. difference)
Turn 4:
2.2%
2.6%
1.5%
Facility Area:
542 acres
Turn 5:
2.1%
8.5%
11.3%
Latitude/Longitude:
36.585708, 121.752892
Turn 6:
6.8%
9.6%
3.8%
Turn 7:
-1.5%
1.6%
N/A
Turn 8:
6.6%
12.6%
N/A
THE CORKSCREW Height (Turn 8 - Turn 8A):
59 ft. (5+ stories)
Turn 8A:
N/A
11.4%
N/A
Height (Turn 8 – Turn 9):
109 ft. (10+ stories)
Turn 9:
12.5%
12.5%
2.1%
Length:
450 ft.
Turn 10:
6.0%
10.0%
10.0%
Grade Range:
12% (Turn 8) – 18% (Turn 8A)
Turn 11:
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
SBK MOTUL
TRACK RECORDS WORLD SUPERBIKE 1:21.811 Tom Sykes Superpole 2, 2014
MOTOAMERICA SUPERBIKE 1:22.908 Josh Herrin Superpole, 2018
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
15
IMSA will celebrate its 50th anniversary during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.
S R A E Y 62
G N I T N U O C D N A
tory s i dule h e d h e c i s r o t to st even s r e d i d a m e a Seca ing 2019 pr n u g a excit eway L h c t i a w R Tech r e h t a We
T
he iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is
8 Hours, which set a record for most laps completed (327)
in the middle of an exciting 2019 premier event
and distance traveled (732 miles) during a professional
schedule as it hosts the MOTUL FIM Superbike
racing event in track history. The season continued with
World Championship for the 17th time and
back-to-back events in May; Trans Am SpeedFest brought
AMA/MotoAmerica Superbike racing for the 44th time,
the return of the modern Trans Am Series after a 15-year
including three seasons with two separate dates.
absence, and Ferrari Racing Days hosted an incredible
Over time, two-wheel racing became a prominent piece
Challenge championship round, 2004 Formula 1 car
leased from Fort Ord in 1957 to accommodate a new
demonstrations and track-only XX supercars. The remainder of the season includes North America’s
an end to the Pebble Beach Road Races held from 1950 to
top offerings in historic, sports car and open-wheel
1956. The first motorcycle exhibition sanctioned by AFM
racing. The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
was held in 1962, and the first AMA-sanctioned race in
on Aug. 15-18 will celebrate the 50th anniversary of
1972 kickstarted a love affair between motorcycle racing
the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA)
enthusiasts and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
while more than 530 machines with historic and race
The 2019 premier event calendar began at the end of March with the Intercontinental GT Challenge California WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
provenance come back to life on the racetrack. Weeks later, the inaugural Monterey Speed Week kicks off with SBK MOTUL
T O P: © R O L E X ; O P P O SI T E PA G E : B O B H E AT H C O T E
home for sports car racing after safety concerns brought
16
celebration of the Italian marque that featured a Ferrari
of the raceway’s history. The track was built on property
the Prototype and GT cars of the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship battling during their penultimate round on Sept. 13-15. The premier event season concludes with the highly anticipated return of Indy cars to their spiritual roadracing home after a 15-year absence. The season finale of the NTT IndyCar Series will take place at the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey on Sept. 20-22. WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca had previously hosted Indy cars from 1983 to 2004 and been the site of pivotal moments such as “The Pass”—Alex Zanardi overtaking Bryan Herta on the Corkscrew to win the 1996 CART finale. It is also where Bobby Rahal won four straight events from 1984 to 1987 and Mario Andretti concluded his “Arrivederci” retirement tour in 1994. Meanwhile, projects have taken place to ensure
over the dip at the top of the main entrance road for a smooth entry and exit, relocating the television
that fans, sponsors, workers and participants are
broadcast compound, removing the octagon tower
offered the best possible experience at WeatherTech
overlooking the Start/Finish line, removing the former
Raceway Laguna Seca. One immediate addition that
Parks Department office overlooking Turn 2, enhancing
fans will notice is the two-story hospitality structure
corner marshal stands to provide better flag marshal
in the paddock near Turn 3 that will serve Flagroom
safety and visibility for drivers, and completion of the
Hospitality guests during the World Superbike event.
track safety fencing project.
When roaming the lively vendor area in the Hagerty
The County of Monterey, which owns and operates
Marketplace, one will also notice the widening and
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, continues to take
paving of the area to enhance the experience.
care of the iconic facility so it can continue to be enjoyed
Other projects that have taken place include paving
for years to come. ◗
Indy cars will return to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the first time in 15 years. Top: The penultimate round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship kicks off Monterey Speed Week this September.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
17
RACEWAY OFFICIALS BOARD OF GOVERNORS Dr. Dean Fewtrell
Luis Alvarez
Shelley Niedernhofer
Gregg Curry
Gregg McWilliams
Marc Risman
RACE AND EVENTS COMMITTEE OFFICERS Dennis Farber
Dean Fewtrell
Gregg McWilliams
CHAIR & VEHICLE CONTROL
VICE CHAIR & GUEST SERVICES
SECRETARY & COMMUNICATIONS
Lee Ames
Eliud Garcia
Monica Nathan
PADDOCK
MEDICAL (PARTICIPANT)
MEDICAL (SPECTATOR)
Carl Anderson
Patrick Kelly
Joe Prospero
LSR FUND
VEHICLE CONTROL
RACE ACTIVITIES
Deborah Brown
Juliet Lucero
Carl Schumaker
HOSPITALITY
ADMISSIONS
COMMUNICATIONS
Jim Coldwell
Mark Mendoza
Henry Simpson
VEHICLE CONTROL
GUEST SERVICES/INFO
IT
George Covell
Al Mulholland
Tammo Stubbe
TRANSPORT/ VOLUNTEERS
ADMINISTRATIVE
VOLUNTEERS/ TRANSPORT
Gregg Curry
Bryan Mutoza
Jim Sula
CAMPING/ARCHIVIST/ SIGNS
PADDOCK
CONCESSIONS
Doug Finch
Ginger Mutoza
PADDOCK
ADMISSIONS
DIRECTORS
Nicholas Abidi William Akin Dan Aliotti Edward Allen Howard Althouse Brad Amestoy Hank Aranda Joanne Ask Phil Avedschmidt Ryan Bailey Steven Baltes Frank Basso Jaime Bejarano Michael Bennett Dane Berg Shant Bezdijian Raakesh Bhat Samuel Bird Deborah Bolton Samuel Bomar Arthur Boose Richard Borjon Matthew Bosworth
18
Jim Bowman Briana Branche Robert Brandewie Tim Brewer Morgan Broadhead Greg Brombach Ken Brown Andrew Burt Diana Butler David Byrns Patricia Byrns Sharen Carey Al Carnahan Diane Carnahan Tony Cartelli Andrew Cerveny Philip Cherry Maria Cid Tim Clark Lucy Clem Chris Cochran Mel Cohon Matt Collier
David Consalvo Christopher Corkill Jean Correll Chris Correll Todd Coy Bob Crannell Tony Cricelli Heather Cross Kayla Curry Kathleen Curtis-Ames Tim Dagelen Wendy Daniel Julie Davidson John Dell’Acqua Kelly Dell’Acqua Joseph DeSales Steve DeVincenzi Tony DiBella Joseph W. Divar George Divine Larry Dotson Mark M. Dye Steve Easton
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
Brad Eby Jann H. Eby Shea Eby Jay Edelman Herbert Evans Eric Fajardo Deborah A. Falero Leslie Fenton Leigh Fitz Ray Fleming Kevin Forbey Ana Fowler Steve Fremgen Tanja Frey, M.D. Renae Gaines Melissa Galieti Ron Galieti David Garavello Angela Garcia John Garcia Mike Garcia John Garcia John Garthner
Adam Gavalla Mike Gentry Emily Gibson Alan Gjedsted Sheri Glazebrook Maria Gomes Sean Gomes Roy Gonzalez Yvonne Gonzalez Cliff Greenberg Harlan Grogin Darren Guertner Keith Guertner, Jr. Keith Guertner, Sr. Ralph Guglielm Kyle Haggmark Warren Halstead Anna Halstead Michelle Hamby Roderick Hance William Hanson Inge Hardy Jim Haugh
Mike Hayworth Nigel Hearne Nick Heath Kevin Hefner Walter R. Heinze Alan Henderson Lew Henderson Tom Hierl Mark Hietpas Kathy Hilliker Amy Hollingshead David Holmstrom David Howell Pete Howell Octavio Hurtado Fernando Ibanez Janeen D. Ingram Robert Ingram Krystal Isais Neil Jameson Helen Jaye Ross Johnson Earl Johnson
SBK MOTUL
W O RL D S B K
ASSISTANT DIRECTORS
STAFF Administration Timothy P. McGrane CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Katy Lysaght EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Ardelle Lind CHIEF REGISTRAR
Sandi Miller REGISTRATION MANAGER
Marketing Jeanie Sumners
Sales Steve Fields
Robert Willoughby
SR. VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES
Aaron Tharpe
SALES MANAGER
Connor Barr
CORPORATE SALES MANAGER
Event Operations & Track Rentals Ann Bixler
SR. VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
MARKETING MANAGER
Brad Littlefield
PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER
Jamie Stracuzzi MARKETING COORDINATOR
Liz Tudor
MARKETING & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR
Persephone Cueva SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Tickets & Camping Lisa Saclayan TICKET COORDINATOR
Aleia Ando
TICKET & CAMPING ASSISTANT
EVENT OPERATIONS MANAGER
Judy Varley
TICKET ASSISTANTS
Accounting Kim Marlar Cat Spadea Chance Perez
ACCOUNT SPECIALISTS
OPERATIONS/TRACK RENTAL COORDINATOR
Colleen Gunby
EVENT OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
FACILITIES MANAGER
Matt Brady
TRACK MANAGER
Jose Vizcaino
FACILITIES SUPERVISOR
Dillon Debord
TRACK FOREMAN
Irma Vance Wynette Jones
CFO
Mark Mathe
Facilities Rick Garcia, Sr.
Official Raceway Store Kathy Muller
Gilbert Quintanilla Jonathan Bala TRACK ASSISTANTS
Kirk Wilson Alyssa Ayala Joe Mullikin Shaun Lindow Danny Cisneros Ryan McGilloway Jovany Gonzalez Isidoro Gonzalez
FACILITIES ASSISTANTS
RETAIL MANAGER
Bianka Lipori
Patrick Cowen
TRACK CONCESSIONS MANAGER
RETAIL ASSISTANT
Sarah Espinoza
Events Melissa Taylor
WEEKEND ASSISTANT
Lyle Pfister John Pinto Daniel Pinto Linda Ponsi Mike Pontarolo Ken Popovich Jim Powers Craig Pratt Jonathan Presby Keith Quinnell Mark Quolas Mike Raydo Gary Reid Ingrid Reid John W. Richter Loretta Rider Charley Rider Cathy Rippey Jack Roberts Lynn Rodrigues Richard Rodrigues Thresher Rolle Steve Rossi Gray Ruese
Chris Rustigan Scott Rustigan Wayne Rustigan Matt Schnorf Robert R. Schultz Robert Selden Kirsten Sequeira Shalen Sharma Ryan Shimizu E. Mark Shusterman, M.D. David Simpson Jack Smailes Micah Smith Bill Smith Bryan Souza Steven Stanley Matthew Stansbery Lisa Sterrett Jan Stettler Robert Stettler John Stevenson Terry Sullivan Chris Supinski
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Coleman Johnston Jon Johnston Synthia Johnston William Johnston Ray Jonathans Samuel Josephs Ted Kaczmar Eugene Kang Andrea Kelly Mel Kelly Mark Kendall Dewayn Kezerle Jeff Kilpatrick Matthias Kim Dylan L. Kincade Bruce Kingston Bill Kirkwood Bernhard Knaus John Koostra Brett Lambert John Landaker Jermel Laurie Danny Lee Brian Lepai
SBK MOTUL
Thomas Leverone Tony Leyva Renee Lightcap Frans Lind Mel Lindberg Brian Linehan Erica Locke, M.D. Dave Loop Marie Luna Kenneth Lyngen Richard Lynton, M.D. James Machado Michael Majdalany Andy Marinshaw Jonathan Marinshaw Christina Martinez Tim Martinez Thomas Mastre Ray Mata Shawn McCauley Patrick McCoy Charles McDougal Yvette McDougal Dan Mirski
Faisal M. Mirza Jon Miyasaki Roger Moises Robert Monnastes Derrick Morris Mark Muraoka Zachary Nakao Greg Netzorg Chris Newbold Mike Newbold Nick Newbold Dana Newman Gary Nichols Kurt Nordyke Thomas Oldfield Renee Oliver Uriel Olmedo O’Shea O’Mary Eddie Oronos Thomas Outzen Czec Panek Jane Pease Michael Perkuhn Philip Peterson
Jeff Tarola Sean Tavarez Katrina Tesmer Jon Thanos Arnold Thatcher Peter Thompson Christopher Torre Ernie Torres James Tripp Michael VanBrunt Ramon Velasquez Matt Villalobos David Voorhies Jon Weaklend James Welch McKayla Welty Michelle Welty-Picotti Deanna Williams Chaz Wilson Sally Wilson Marge Wimpee Michelle Wouden J.P. Young Jon Zerkle Patrik Zetterlund, M.D.
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
19
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FAN ACTIVITIES FRIDAY, JULY 12
SATURDAY, JULY 13
WorldSBK Free Practice 1 Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 10:30 – 11:20 a.m.
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup Rider Chat Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Competition Time (A Question of WorldSBK – Interactive Quiz Game) LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Legends Chat Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
WorldSBK Rider Chat Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Competition Time (A Question of WorldSBK – Interactive Quiz Game) LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
WorldSBK Free Practice 2 Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 3:00 – 3:50 p.m.
Opening Dazy Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Meet the Top 3 riders in WorldSBK after Free Practice 3
WorldSBK Free Practice 3 Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 9:00 – 9:20 a.m. Team Managers debrief and chat show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage MotoAmerica Supersport Rider chat show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
WorldSBK Race Podium Show – Race 1 & Qualifying Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Top 3 riders, Top Independent rider TIME: After race MotoAmerica Superbike Race 1 Live & Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Top 3 riders TIME: After race
World Superbike Tissot Superpole Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 11:00 – 11:25 a.m. MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike Class Superpole Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Pre-Race Entertainment and National Anthem Performance Location: Starting Grid TIME: 1:45 p.m. MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Race
MotoAmerica Twins Cup Race TIME: 12:30 p.m. MotoAmerica Twins Cup Race Live & Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Top 3 riders TIME: After race
ALL WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Manufacturer Demo Rides LOCATION: Marketplace DETAILS: Ride the latest models from Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and BMW. DAYS: Friday / Saturday / Sunday
22
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
Mini Moto Marketplace Friday / 9:00 – 9:45 a.m./ 1:00 – 1:45 p.m. / 4:15 – 4:45 p.m. Saturday / 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / 2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Sunday / 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. / 2:00 – 2:30 p.m. LOCATION: TIMES:
SBK MOTUL
RID E R D E TA IL A N D O P P O SI T E PA G E , T O P: D M T IM A G IN G ; A L L O T H E R S : G REG G W U T K E
Season Update with Michael Hill (Interactive Q&A) LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
AND ENTERTAINMENT SUNDAY, JULY 14 Sunday Show – Good Morning Race Fans LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage World Superbike Warm-Up Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 9:00 – 9:15 a.m.
MOTUL Race Chat LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Special Guest joins Michael Hill for a discussion about the weekend’s racing so far MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike Race 1 TIME: 2:15 p.m. WorldSBK Race 1 Live LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: 2:00 p.m. WorldSBK Rider Meet-and-Greet LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: All WorldSBK riders
MotoAmerica Supersport Rider Meet-and-Greet LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Race TIME: 12:30 p.m.
MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike Rider Meet-and-Greet LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Race Live & Race Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: After race
MotoAmerica Twins Cup Rider Meet-and-Greet LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
MOTUL Race Chat LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Special Guest joins Michael Hill for a discussion about the weekend’s racing so far
MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup Rider Meet-and-Greet LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Party in the Paddock LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage DETAILS: Annual Party in the Paddock; mix with the stars, music and giveaways! TIME: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Go-Kart Track LOCATION: Marketplace DETAILS: Here’s your chance to race around a track with your friends and really prove who the best driver is. 5 laps for $10.00 and 12 laps for $20.00. DAYS: Friday / Saturday / Sunday TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Land Rover Experience LOCATION: Marketplace DETAILS: Take a test drive on the hill of the Land Rover EXPERIENCE. This is one test drive you won’t get anywhere else. DAYS: Friday / Saturday / Sunday TIME: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
SBK MOTUL
FIM Superbike World Championship – Tissot Superpole Race TIME: 11:00 a.m.
MotoAmerica Paddock Autograph Session LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage
Pre-Race Entertainment and National Anthem Performance LOCATION: Starting Grid DETAILS: Singer Michelle Doolittle and the Travis Air Force Band TIME: 1:45 p.m. FIM Superbike World Championship Race 2 TIME: 2:00 p.m. WorldSBK Race 2 Live & Race Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: After race MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike Race TIME: 3:15 p.m. MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike Race 2 Live & Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: After race MotoAmerica Supersport Race TIME: 4:10 p.m. MotoAmerica Supersport Race Live & Podium Show LOCATION: Paddock – SBK Showcase Stage TIME: After race
Kawasaki Kids Demo Rides LOCATION: Marketplace DAYS: Friday / Saturday / Sunday Beer Garden & Craft Beer Tasting LOCATION: Marketplace DAYS: Friday / Saturday / Sunday TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
23
ON THE
P
edestrians did doubletakes on one of the most recognizable structures in the world when the racers from the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and MotoAmerica series rode
across the Golden State Bridge prior to the 2018 event. The ride started at Vista Point and continued to Fisherman’s Wharf on the streets of San Francisco. Rolling burnouts from professional riders on high-revving sport bikes supplied by local dealerships took place while the California Highway Patrol escorted the brigade through the Bay City. WorldSBK riders Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki), Chaz Davies (Ducati), Alex Lowes (Yamaha), Eugene Laverty (Aprilia) and Loris Baz (BMW) participated along with MotoAmerica standouts Josh Herrin (Yamaha, now Suzuki), Cameron Beaubier (Yamaha) and Valentin Debise (Suzuki). ◗
PHOTOS BY BOB HEATHCOTE Below, left to right: Cameron Beaubier, Josh Herrin, Alex Lowes, Jonathan Rea, Loris Baz, Eugene Laverty, Chaz Davies, Valentin Debise
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
25
STAY CONNECTED STAY CONNECTED with WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca this race weekend for up-to-the-minute information, a look behind the scenes, images, contests, and more! CHECK OUT the WorldSBK and MotoAmerica Live+ apps on your phone for up-to-date timing and scoring and live commentary.
@WeatherTechRcwy
Facebook.com/WeatherTechRaceway @WeatherTechRaceway
HASHTAGS FOR THE WEEKEND #USAWorldSBK #WeatherTechRaceway
VISIT the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca booth
#LagunaSeca
at the track for tickets, information and prizes.
#MyDayAtLaguna
T O P L E F T A N D B O T T O M : G REG G W U T K E ; T O P RI G H T: B O B H E AT H C O T E
26
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
Available in Black, Tan and Grey (Cocoa Available for Select Applications)
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© 2019 by MacNeil IP LLC
Clockwise from top left: The second-ever World Superbike event at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in 1996. Four-time World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty on the gas in 1997. Kenny Roberts, left, and Eddie Lawson share a moment with Laguna Seca general manager Lee Moselle in 1983. Kenny Roberts is the winningest motorcycle rider in track history with seven victories between AMA and Formula 750. Steve McLaughlin (83) held off Reg Pridmore (163) to give Yoshimura Suzuki their first AMA Superbike win in 1977. Pridmore, who still teaches CLASS Motorcycle Schools at Laguna Seca, was the first AMA Superbike winner one year earlier.
MOTORCYCLE RACING AND LAGUNA SECA
A HISTORY
B O T T O M L E F T: L AW RE N C E G AY N O R
30
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
OF THRILLS IT’S NO SECRET that sportscar racing prompted the creation of Laguna Seca Raceway on property leased from Fort Ord in 1957, following safety concerns that shut down the home of the wildly popular Pebble Beach Road Races that lasted from 1950 to 1956. However, the iconic road racing circuit won the hearts of motorcycle racing enthusiasts worldwide as the sport gained acceptance and popularity.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
31
A HISTORY OF THRILLS Right: 2018 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee Mary McGee was part of the grid at the track’s first motorcycle racing exhibition in 1962, held during the Laguna Seca Invitational Sports Car Races. Left (top and bottom): Cal Rayborn won the first AMA National Race held at Laguna Seca on a Harley-Davidson.
Initially, bringing in motorcycle racing wasn’t an easy sell to a local public still conscious of the sensationalized
official class until 1976, the event was called the Kawasaki
Hollister riot of 1947. A 30-minute exhibition took place
Superbike International and attracted production-
in 1962 during the Laguna Seca Invitational Sportscar
based machines in classes that were initially dubbed
Races that was largely marred by a racer in the front row
Heavyweight Production and Lightweight Production.
whose bike refused to start, causing an accident that
More experienced riders were considered Heavyweights,
took a handful of riders out of the race immediately.
and both classes began races with a Le Mans start.
Ron Grant won on a Norton Manx 500.
French Canadian rider Yvon Duhamel won the Open
Motorcycle racing at Laguna Seca did not begin in
Production class for three straight years from 1973 to
earnest until the first AMA Grand National Race was
1975. In the first earnest year of AMA Superbike, Reg
held in 1972. The great Cal Rayborn, whom many
Pridmore won the race and the season title on the Butler
expected to be the first American champion on the
& Smith BMW. Pridmore still maintains ties to the track
international stage before his untimely death in 1973,
as an instructor at CLASS Motorcycle School.
scored the first win on a Harley-Davidson. 32
Though AMA Superbike wasn’t recognized as an
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
(continued on page 36) SBK MOTUL
SUPERBIKE
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS YEAR
RACES WINNERS
TEAM
BIKE
Anthony Gobert
Muzzy Kawasaki
Kawasaki ZX-7R
Troy Corser
Promotor Ducati Corse
Ducati 916
1996
John Kocinski
Ducati Corse
Ducati 916
Anthony Gobert
Muzzy Kawasaki
Kawasaki ZX-7R
John Kocinski
Castrol Honda – HRC
Honda RC45
John Kocinski
Castrol Honda – HRC
Honda RC45
Troy Corser
Ducati Corse
Ducati 916
Noriyuki Haga
Yamaha World Superbike Team
Yamaha YZF750
Anthony Gobert
Vance & Hines Ducati
Ducati 996
Ben Bostrom
Vance & Hines Ducati
Ducati 996
Noriyuki Haga
Yamaha World Superbike Team
Yamaha YZF-R7
Troy Corser
Aprilia Racing
Aprilia RSV1000
Ben Bostrom
L&M Ducati
Ducati 996R
Ben Bostrom
L&M Ducati
Ducati 996R
Troy Bayliss
Infostrada Ducati Corse
Ducati 998 F02
Colin Edwards
Castrol Honda – HRC
Honda RC51
Pierfrancesco Chili
PSG-1 Ducati
Ducati 998 RS
Rubén Xaus
Ducati FILA
Ducati 999 F03
Chris Vermeulen
Ten Kate Honda
Honda CBR1000RR
Chris Vermeulen
Ten Kate Honda
Honda CBR1000RR
Event not held at Laguna Seca
Tom Sykes
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10R
Eugene Laverty
Aprilia Racing Team
Aprilia RSV4
Marco Melandri
Aprilia Racing Team
Aprilia RSV4
Tom Sykes
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10R
Chaz Davies
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati SBK Team
Ducati Panigale R
Chaz Davies
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati SBK Team
Ducati Panigale R
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10R
Tom Sykes
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10R
Chaz Davies
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati SBK Team
Ducati Panigale R
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Jonathan Rea
Kawasaki Racing Team
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
1995
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005-2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
33
A HISTORY OF THRILLS
AMA SUPERBIKE
MOTOAMERICA WINNERS SEASON WINNER
1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989-1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 34
TEAM/ENTRANT
BIKE
Reg Pridmore
Butler & Smith BMW
BMW
Steve McLaughlin
Yoshimura
Suzuki
Wes Cooley
Yoshimura
Suzuki
Freddie Spencer
Kawasaki Factory
Kawasaki
Freddie Spencer
American Honda
Honda
Eddie Lawson
Team Muzzy
Kawasaki
Eddie Lawson
Team Muzzy
Kawasaki
Wayne Rainey
Team Muzzy
Kawasaki
Fred Merkel
American Honda
Honda
John Ashmead
Ashmead / Gary Meadley
Honda
Wayne Rainey
American Honda
Honda
Bubba Shobert
American Honda
Honda
Bubba Shobert
Shobert/Honda
Honda
Doug Polen
Fast by Ferracci
Ducati
Doug Polen
Fast by Ferracci
Ducati
Pascal Picotte
Fast by Ferracci
Ducati
Freddie Spencer
Fast by Ferracci
Ducati
Doug Chandler
Team Muzzy
Kawasaki
Doug Chandler
Team Muzzy
Kawasaki
Miguel Duhamel
American Honda
Honda
Anthony Gobert
Vance & Hines
Ducati
Nicky Hayden
American Honda
Honda
No race
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
SEASON WINNER
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 (JULY) 2007 (SEPTEMBER) 2008 (JULY) 2008 (SEPTEMBER) 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 (JULY) 2013 (SEPTEMBER) 2014
TEAM/ENTRANT TEAM/ENTRANT
BIKE
Eric Bostrom
Kawasaki Factory
Kawasaki
Eric Bostrom
Kawasaki Factory
Kawasaki
Mat Mladin
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Ben Bostrom
Parts Unlimited American Honda
Honda
Eric Bostrom
Parts Unlimited MotoAustin
Ducati
Ben Spies
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Ben Spies
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Ben Spies
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Mat Mladin
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Mat Mladin
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Mat Mladin
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Ben Bostrom
Pat Clark Motorsports
Yamaha
Tommy Hayden
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Josh Hayes
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Josh Hayes
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Josh Hayes
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Josh Hayes
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Josh Hayes
2015
Cameron Beaubier
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Cameron Beaubier
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Josh Hayes
Graves Motorsports
Yamaha
Toni Elias
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Toni Elias
Yoshimura Racing
Suzuki
Cameron Beaubier
Monster Energy / Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
Cameron Beaubier
Monster Energy / Yamaha Factory Racing
Yamaha
2016
2017
2018 SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
35
A HISTORY OF THRILLS
Future world champions Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, Freddie Spencer and Wayne Rainey all won AMA Superbike races at Laguna Seca. Motorcycle racing
honors of winning in 1988. The next year, Rainey began his first of three consecutive wins at his home track. World Superbike came to Monterey for the first time in
affected the track in its growing popularity so much
1995 and ran continuously until 2004. John Kocinski, who
that the track itself was reconfigured from the original
had won at the track previously in 500cc and 250cc, added
9-turn, 1.9-mile configuration to an 11-turn circuit
further to his credentials with three World Superbike wins.
in 1987 to meet FIM requirements to be able to host a
He was later joined by Ben Bostrom and Colin Edwards as
Motorcycle Grand Prix.
the only American riders to date to win a World Superbike
The first Motorcycle Grand Prix hosted in the United States in 23 years took place with Lawson doing the
event in Monterey. Grand Prix Motorcycle racing returned from 2005 to
FEW MOMENTS GET THE HEART PUMPING WITH ANTICIPATION LIKE THE START OF AN INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE RACE AT WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA.
36
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
Left: Valentino Rossi kisses the Corkscrew after making a daring pass on Casey Stoner at the 2008 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix. Below: The late Nicky Hayden was always a fan favorite. His wins N E A R RI G H T: D M T IM A G IN G ; B O T T O M : T. M . HIL L
at the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix in 2005 (pictured) and 2006 are cherished memories. Opposite: The most recent World Superbike grid brought the best riders and production-based motorcycles in the world to Monterey.
2013 while World Superbike left to return in 2013. Highlights from that stretch of MotoGP racing include Nicky Hayden scoring back-to-back wins to huge ovations in 2005 and 2006 and Valentino Rossi battling Casey Stoner while pulling off the two-wheel equivalent of “The Pass” in 2008. World Superbike has made WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca its U.S. home since 2013. All winners in that span—Jonathan Rea, Chaz Davies, Tom Sykes, Eugene Laverty and Marco Melandri—remain active and competitive in the series. Sykes and Davies were in a logjam of past three-time winners to top the list of winningest World Superbike riders at this track until Rea leapfrogged them with his double win in 2018 that raised his career total to four. Having a combined World Superbike and MotoAmerica event in July has made WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca the premier West Coast destination for motorcycle road racing. ◗ SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
37
RECORD RETURNS
Álvaro Bautista’s move to World Superbike resulted in a historic 11-race winning streak
I
t’s never too late to start again. Álvaro Bautista had spent 17 years in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing
year of his MotoGP career. The final two years proved valuable in getting
ranks, most notably winning the 125cc World
acquainted with the four-cylinder Ducati Desmosedici
Championship in 2006 and scoring over 2,000
before the Ducati Panigale V4 R was homogenized for
points in MotoGP from 2010 to 2018. Now, in his first
World Superbike competition. The previous Ducati
year competing in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World
Panigale R campaigned by Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
Championship, he is the man to beat.
in 2018 had a twin-cylinder engine. While some of
Bautista began his first two years of MotoGP riding
the similarities between the bikes may explain a level
for the factory Suzuki team before they withdrew from
of comfort Bautista felt on his new ride, it would be
competition, after which he rode for Gresini Racing in
an oversimplification to call that the reason for his
2012–2016 and Ángel Nieto Team in 2017 and 2018.
initial success in World Superbike without recognizing
Notably, he outscored his teammates during every
the Spaniard’s significant talent and considering the
“Bautista is doing something exceptional, but that’s nothing new to me—I’ve competed against him in 125cc, 250cc and many years in MotoGP. I know him well and I think that throughout his career he has never quite realized how strong he actually is.” —Andrea Dovizioso, Ducati MotoGP rider
38
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
adjustments he would need to make to handle the new
the next-highest total (4), an 18th championship would
bike and Pirelli spec tire.
also be the first for the Bologna-based manufacturer
“We did very well during the winter test,” said
since the 2011 season. Bautista is also eyeing Ben Spies’
Bautista. “Ducati and my team worked really hard to
record of most wins in their first World Superbike season
give me a competitive bike early, from the first race. I’m
(14) and the record of most wins in any World Superbike
quite happy thanks to them. We are focused to keep it
season held by both Rea and Doug Pollen (17).
going and work with the bike at every track we go to.”
Bautista has relished each of the race wins he has been
Bautista staked his claim to the Superbike World
able to accomplish thus far in World Superbike. After
Championship throne when he swept all three of the
all, he had gone nearly a decade between professional
races in this year’s new three-race format at the Yamaha
victories, with his last being in the 250cc class at the
Finance Australian Round. His statement was emphatic
2009 Catalan Motorcycle Grand Prix.
with huge margins over second-place Jonathan Rea, the
“For sure, it took a lot of time. Now it seems like I’m
Kawasaki rider who entered the season as the favorite to
recovering all the victories I couldn’t do in the past,” said
win a fifth-straight World Title.
Bautista. “In any case, I try to enjoy the moment. We are
The optimism surrounding the rejuvenated race
doing really well in the championship. I didn’t think we
winner was of a cautious nature in knowing that the
would have a start like this. You never know what can
second round would be in Thailand, a race that the
happen in the future. In 10 years, I didn’t win. If you
Kawasaki squad had dominated throughout Rea’s
would have told me then that I wouldn’t win for 10 years,
championship reigns. Though the competition tightened
I would have enjoyed the present.” ◗
up, Bautista once again came out on top in all three races. “I knew Thailand wasn’t going to be like Australia, because Kawasaki won the last seven out of eight races here, so it was like we were coming into their territory,” said Bautista. “It is not easy, because the bike is quite new. Everywhere we go, there is everything to discover. Fortunately, the bike was well from the beginning and we made small adjustments.” Bautista thrilled the Spanish fans at the Motocard Aragon round by sweeping his home race, bringing his streak up to nine wins. At that point, his average margin of victory was a staggering 8.5 seconds, a number that is hampered by the three shorter Tissot Superpole races during that span. At the Motul Dutch Round at TT Circuit Assen in April, Bautista scored a double win by sweeping Race 1 and the Tissot Superpole Race before weather prevented the third race from taking place, bringing his streak of consecutive victories to start a World Superbike season to a record-breaking 11 wins. The number of consecutive wins ties Rea’s career high mark at any point in a season which he set by winning the final 11 events of 2018. It was Rea who finally broke Bautista’s remarkable streak at the Pirelli Italian Round, one month later. Bautista is in position to give Ducati its first World Superbike championship since 2011, which was won by the series’ only Spanish rider to win a title (Carlos Checa). Though Ducati’s 17 manufacturer titles dwarf SBK MOTUL
What They’re Saying “It’s clear that he isn’t just winning because of his bike; I’ve heard that comment elsewhere, but a rider is a lot more than the machine he’s on. Everything helps, but if a rider such as Bautista, who is a former World Champion, suddenly finds himself in the ideal atmosphere and is feeling comfortable—well, he’s capable of doing things like this. He proved it in Australia and has continued proving it since.” —Five-time MotoGP champion Márc Márquez “Winning on his debut and in the way he did, with such a margin ahead of Rea, it surprises positively. Álvaro is in good shape, he is a lot motivated, and the bike is working well. He is a very nice rider, and we get [along] well together. I am happy that now he can fight for the championship title for Ducati after so many years. I think he is the right person and that this is the right moment.” —2011 WorldSBK champion Carlos Checa
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
39
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Jonathan Rea scored a double win at last year’s GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round to pad the all-time record for most WorldSBK victories.
DRIVE FIVE FOR
Jonathan Rea’s quest for a fifth straight championship has been his most challenging yet, but the decorated rider presses forward
T
he last time Jonathan Rea visited WeatherTech
championship every year since switching to Kawasaki
Raceway Laguna Seca, it was difficult for him to
in 2015.
contain the happiness that followed two hard-
fought wins to pile onto his all-time best tally. The California sun seemed to follow him all the way across the ocean as he shined for
T O P: K E N W EIS E N B E R G E R; IN S E T: D M T IM A G IN G
the rest of the season, ending his fourth consecutive title run while extending his win streak to a career-high 11 consecutive race wins. A multiyear contract extension amid the reception of offseason honors meant that Rea
SBK MOTUL
However, the seamless continuation of dominance that many expected flipped with the sudden emergence of a new challenger. Rea’s 11-race win streak was ended by MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship newcomer Álvaro Bautista, who equaled the streak to begin the 2019 campaign. Rea—who finished on the podium at every race and was in second position in all but one instance—finally put an end to the Ducati
would be able to further cement his legacy aboard a
rider’s unblemished record at the Pirelli Italian Round.
factory Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Rea, who made his series
Rea won Race 1 and the Tissot Superpole Race before
debut at the end of the 2008 season, has won the
the last scheduled race was canceled due to weather. 2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
41
DRIVE FOR FIVE
ONE FOR THE BOOKS URRENT ALL-TIME SUPERBIKE C WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RECORDS HELD BY JONATHAN REA:
4 14 17 24 75
Most career championships (tied with Carl Fogarty)
Most fastest laps in a single season (2017 and 2018; tied with Doug Polen, 1991)
Most wins in a single season (2018; tied with Doug Polen, 1991)
Podium finishes in a single season (2017; second to Colin Edwards’ 25 in 2002)
Most career wins (as of July 5)
“I went to Italy with a different mentality to the start of the season,” said the Northern Irishman. “Being beaten in Australia was tough. It was bad in Phillip Island, but we talked about the Phillip Island effect [and] when we went to Thailand and Aragon it wasn’t any better. We were straight-up beaten by Ducati and Bautista. “In Assen, we started to make some inroads with the bike and the gap but Imola wasn’t just a win, it was a great weekend. We were strong from FP1 and all the way through. It was so nice to have a weekend like that, and I’ve tried to enjoy the moment from that weekend. I don’t want to get swept away and think we can win every weekend because it’ll be hard to do that. We need to do the best we can every week.” Rea and team dug deep to find performance beyond what carried them to four straight World Titles. Two great chase at the height of their respective careers. “I went out to Italy, and before the event I talked about trying to change the momentum of the championship,” said Rea. “I know how important momentum can be. I wanted to win, because when you keep winning you keep picking up five points—they all add up. It was nice not to lose points, and it was definitely the time to do it. It was important for us to prove to Álvaro that we’re there.” ◗
42
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
A B O V E : T. M . HIL L ; SID E B A R P H O T O S : D M T IM A G IN G
riders are now fighting in a compelling championship
2019
CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVEN
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FOR THE
REBELLIOUSLY POWERFUL 636cc ENGINE
NEW STYLING WITH TWIN LED HEADLIGHTS AND TAILLIGHT NEW KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER (KQS) Professional rider on a closed course. ©2019 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
One of the many highlights for Bautista in 2019 includes winning in his home country at the Acerbis Spanish Round. Opposite: The Moriwaki Honda team brings factory support from Honda back to the class with riders Ryuichi Kiyonari and Leon Camier.
44
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
WORLDSBK PREVIEW N O C RE D I T E M B E D D E D
The feature event brings more racing and tighter competition than ever before
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
45
WORLDSBK PREVIEW
new three-race format and a new kid on the block to challenge the all-conquering Jonathan Rea have contributed to elevating the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship to another level of excitement.
The new weekend format announced during the offseason means the addition of a race that counts toward championship points each weekend. The Tissot Superpole is a single qualifying session held on Saturday that determines the grid for both Race 1 on Saturday and Sunday’s new 10-race sprint branded as the Tissot Superpole Race. The top nine riders in the Tissot Superpole Race set the grid for Race 2, where riders from position 10 to the back of the grid are determined from Tissot Superpole qualifying. Points are awarded in the Tissot Superpole Race as follows: 12/9/7/6/5/4/3/2/1. The points system remains
“THE 2019 SEASON WILL THROW UP SOME NEW CHALLENGES AS THE COMPETITIVENESS BETWEEN THE MANUFACTURERS CONTINUES TO BE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL.” —LEON HASLAM
46
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
unchanged for Races 1 and 2, where the first 15 riders
time champion Jonathan Rea to a long-term deal. The
earn points as follows: 25/20/16/13/11/10/9/8/7/6/5/4
Northern Irishman had eclipsed the great Carl Fogarty’s
/3/2/1. Offering races with different formats gives the
all-time record of 59 wins last season prior to reeling off
teams opportunities to work on different strategies for
an impressive double victory at WeatherTech Raceway
each race throughout the weekend and creates even
Laguna Seca that began an 11-race winning streak,
more exciting races for fans and riders to enjoy.
which he carried through to the end of the season.
Around the time of last year’s race, silly season was
Rea’s teammate during his four title runs was 2013
in full swing, with rider commitments shuffling for
world champion Tom Sykes, the all-time Superpole
the 2019 season and manufacturers BMW and Honda
leader who parted ways with the team at season’s
committing factory support to their efforts to compete
end. Joining Rea in 2019 is British rider Leon Haslam.
with Kawasaki, Ducati and Yamaha.
Haslam, a five-time winner in the Superbike World
The Kawasaki Racing Team signed reigning four-
Championship, returns to the series on a full-time
Clockwise from far left: Leon “Pocket Rocket” Haslam returned to full-time World Superbike racing with Kawasaki Racing. On his fourth bike in five years, Spanish rider Jordi Torres is settling in with top 10 performances on the Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki. Young Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlıoğlu continues to show promise with podium finishes riding for the independent Turkish Puccetti Racing Kawasaki team. Eugene Laverty is expected to return with the Team GoEleven Ducati after suffering broken wrists during a practice session in Italy.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
47
WORLDSBK PREVIEW Dutch rider Michael van der Mark became the third rider to win in 2019 with his Race 2 victory at Circuito de Jerez. Below: Pata Yamaha rider Alex Lowes began the season with consecutive podiums and has been a steady presence near the front of the pack.
basis for the first time since 2015. Haslam won the 2018
comes in the form of a Ducati Panigale V4 R and Spanish
British Superbike championship riding a Kawasaki.
rider Álvaro Bautista. Bautista joined Welsh rider Chaz
“Returning to the Superbike World Championship is
Davies as the riders of the new four-cylinder effort for
something I’m really looking forward to,” said Haslam.
the Aruba.it – Ducati team after the Italian brand had
“After scoring race wins, lap records, pole positions and
long been a key player in the series with twin engines.
a championship runner-up position in my seven years
Though it is Bautista’s first year in the Superbike World
there, it’s going to be great to get back to WSBK. The
Championship, early returns have shown that he is not
2019 season will throw up some new challenges as the
your typical rookie. The former 125cc Grand Prix world
competitiveness between the manufacturers continues
champion spent nine years in the MotoGP ranks before
to be at the highest level, but I’m confident that with
being called upon to apply his considerable talents to the
the professional and successful team behind me we can
production-based motorcycles. He won early and often,
enjoy plenty of success.”
scoring a record 11 consecutive victories to start a season.
The biggest obstacle to Rea’s reign of dominance
He shut Rea out of the winner’s circle for the first four rounds of the season before finally giving up the top step of the podium during the Pirelli Italian Round in Round 1 and the Tissot Superpole Race before Round 2 was lost to rain. He bounced right back in his home country with Race 1 and Tissot Superpole Race victories at the Acerbis Spanish Round prior to his only DNF of the season up to While Bautista has flourished, 29-time winner Davies struggled in the early going before his bike was set up for his size and riding style. With three past victories at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, including a memorable double in 2015, Davies and his championship-leading counterpart offer a potent onetwo punch at this year’s GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round.
48
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
B O T T O M : MI C H A E L T R O U T M A N / D M T IM A G IN G
that point in Race 2.
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WORLDSBK PREVIEW
Among the five major manufacturers in the series, Yamaha had the least number of changes to their rider lineups. The stability has provided consistent results for Pata Yamaha riders Michael van der Mark (Netherlands) and Alex Lowes (Britain), both of whom have been regulars on the podium in 2019 after each had scored their first victories in 2018. At the Acerbis Spanish Round, van der Mark held off Rea for a Race 2 victory that made him only the third rider to score a win in 2019 up to that point. One of the Superbike World Championship’s most “We put together some great weekends even if the
successful active riders and colorful characters is
end results didn’t show the full potential,” said Davies.
wearing new colors in 2019 with Tom Sykes’ move to
“We have some nuggets of information that will help
BMW. The 2013 champion and three-time winner of the
us through the rest of the season. It is still a learning
GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round leads the charge for the
process. The bike is still young. My teammate has got
German brand, who paired up with Shaun Muir Racing
great guns with it, and so do I—we just need to work on
to move the factory effort toward a championship level.
putting it together consistently.”
The two-bike effort also includes promising German
Davies’ former teammate, Italian rider Marco Melandri, moved to the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team, joining German teammate Sandro Cortese. Melandri
rider Markus Reiterberger, who won the European Superstock 1000 title in 2018. Honda is putting forward a factory effort after
nabbed his first podium finish of the season in Race 1 of
previously focusing on providing support to their
the Spanish Round.
customer teams. British rider Leon Camier was retained
21-year-old Alessandro Delbianco is the youngest rider on the grid with the Althea MIE Racing Team. Top: Markus Reiterberger, pictured, and 2013 world champion Tom Sykes are part of the new BMW Motorrad effort overseen by Shaun Muir Racing.
50
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
WORLDSBK PREVIEW
to ride one of the two Fireblades for Moriwaki Althea
Irish rider Eugene Laverty has had past success at the
Honda. Japanese rider and three-time winner Ryuichi
GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round, including a win in 2003 and
Kiyonari made his return to World Superbike after
a podium last year. After having recovered from a fractured
nearly a decade of racing in other series. While Camier
pelvis to make the event in 2018, Laverty puts his toughness
was sidelined with a shoulder injury for Round 6, Yuki
on display again by getting back on Team GoEleven’s
Takahashi stood in.
Ducati Panigale after suffering from seven fractures in his
Though increased factory support has been a big story, there have been many positive developments among the independent teams. Toprak Razgatlıoğlu has been a presence toward the
wrists from an accident during practice in Imola. Tommy Bridewell substituted during Laverty’s recovery. The Ten Kate Racing squad that recently fielded the Red Bull Honda team returned during the season
front of the grid in 2019. The 22-year-old Turkish rider
with French rider Loris Baz taking control of their new
has delivered on the promise of his rookie-of-the-year
Yamaha YZF R1 during the Spanish Round. Baz, who
honors from 2018 by riding his Kawasaki to podium
was the sole BMW rider in 2018, showed no signs of rust
spots during the Italian and Spanish rounds.
with a top 10 finish during his first outing of 2019.
Fan favorite Jordi Torres moved over to the Kawasaki
The grid is completed by two of the youngest riders in
brand with Team Pedercini Racing. The Spanish rider
the Superbike World Championship. 23-year-old Italian
has been projecting upward with recent top 10 finishes.
rider Michael Ruben Rinaldi made his debut last season and is riding a Ducati for the BARNI Racing Team. Fellow countryman Alessandro Delbianco, the youngest rider at 21 years old, is making strides aboard the Althea MIE Racing Team’s Honda CBR1000RR. With the GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round now taking place on July 12-14, riders will make their only United States stop prior to going on summer break. They will show up in fighting shape following their British Round at Donington Park one week prior. The top riders in the world always bring their best efforts to compete at the legendary WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. ◗
Above: Championship leader Álvaro Bautista, right, and reigning four-time champion Jonathan Rea have developed a captivating rivalry, with Bautista having dominated the early season. Right: After missing the first few rounds, French rider Loris Baz and Dutch outfit Ten Kate Racing returned with a new Yamaha program in Spain that instantly yielded top 10 results.
C RE D I T
52
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
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WORLDSBK ENTRY LIST
2019 NO.
NATIONALITY
MOTORCYCLE
TEAM
1
Jonathan Rea
GBR
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
2
Leon Camier
GBR
Honda CBR1000RR
Moriwaki Althea Honda Team
7
Chaz Davies
GBR
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
11
Sandro Cortese
GER
Yamaha YZF R1
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK
19
Alvaro Bautista
ESP
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
21
Michael Ruben Rinaldi
ITA
Ducati Panigale V4 R
BARNI Racing Team
22
Alex Lowes
GBR
Yamaha YZF R1
Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team
23
Ryuichi Kiyonari
JAP
Honda CBR1000RR
Moriwaki Althea Honda Team
28
Markus Reiterberger
GER
BMW S1000 RR
BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
33
Marco Melandri
ITA
Yamaha YZF R1
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK
50
Eugene Laverty
IRL
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Team Go Eleven
52
Alessandro Delbianco
ITA
Honda CBR1000RR
Althea MIE Racing Team
54
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu
TUR
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Turkish Puccetti Racing
60
Michael van der Mark
NED
Yamaha YZF R1
Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team
66
Tom Sykes
GBR
BMW S1000 RR
BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
76
Loris Baz
FRA
Yamaha YZF R1
Ten Kate Racing
81
Jordi Torres
ESP
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Team Pedercini Racing
91
Leon Haslam
GBR
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
D M T IM A G IN G
RIDER
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
55
STARTING A Fan favorite Tom Sykes brings his championship talents to BMW Motorrad
New bike, new colors, same “Superpole Man” Tom Sykes. The 2013 world champ begins anew at BMW.
he 2019 season sparked change for one of Superbike racing’s fastest riders and most colorful personalities. Tom Sykes and his familiar No. 66 number plate now represent the BMW Motorrad World Superbike Team. Sykes had an incredible nine-year run with Kawasaki,
ability serves him well in his new capacity. BMW Motorrad Motorsport teamed up with Shaun Muir Racing for 2019 for a brand-new, two-bike effort, welcoming riders Sykes and Markus Reiterberger to the German outfit. BMW came back in a big way, providing
winning the 2013 World Championship and scoring
full factory backing with their new BMW S 1000 RR
championship runner-ups in 2012, 2014 and 2016. He
beast. BMW Motorrad Motorsport is responsible for
had a special affinity for his qualifying efforts. “Mr.
the development of engine, electronics, chassis and
Superpole” became the MOTUL FIM Superbike World
aerodynamics. All other areas of testing and competitive
Championship all-time leader with 48 poles.
racing are the responsibility of Shaun Muir Racing,
Most importantly during that time, Sykes’ talent for relaying information to engineers was integral in 56
the development of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR. This
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
which previously worked with BMW in 2016. “I think for how early we are in the project—the SBK MOTUL
NEW CHAPTER
M I S T E R S U P E R P O L E
TOM SYKES is the all-time Superbike World Championship leader with 48 career poles. On the following list of riders to earn five or more pole awards in a single season, Sykes is the only rider to accomplish the feat six times. YEAR RIDER
POLES
2009
Ben Spies
11
1991
Doug Polen
10
2012
Tom Sykes
9
2016
Tom Sykes
8
2013
Tom Sykes
8
2008
Troy Bayliss
8
1998
Troy Corser
7
2018
Tom Sykes
6
2015
Tom Sykes
6
2017
Jonathan Rea
6
2011
Carlos Checa 6
2010
Cal Crutchlow 6
2007
Troy Bayliss
2003
Neil Hodgson 6
2000
Colin Edwards 6
1994
Carl Fogarty
6
1993
Carl Fogarty
6
1992
Doug Polen
6
2014
Tom Sykes
5
2006
Troy Bayliss
5
2004
Regis Laconi
5
2002
Colin Edwards 5
1999
Troy Corser
5
1996
Troy Corser
5
program only started a few months ago—it is really
WorldSBK Team, as for the amount of time we’ve had
impressive what the whole BMW Motorrad WorldSBK
on track, they are doing a very special job. I’m sure with
Team has achieved so far,” said Sykes. “We’ve made
the upgrades in the future, we can become even more
small changes to the bike, of course; now we are playing
competitive.”
a bit with the electronics.” Development for the team is constantly taking
The veteran presence and upbeat energy that Sykes offers is a huge asset to the nascent effort. As the
place. Sykes has worked with the setup to make it very
season progresses, Sykes and Reiterberger inch closer to
competitive around corners as the factory continues
competing for podiums.
development on the horsepower to bridge the gap at tracks that have long straightaways. “For now, my only know-how is how to ride the bike
“We are still developing during race weekends, but the whole BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team is doing a great job and we will just continue doing what we are
and give the engineers their feedback,” said Sykes. “I
doing,” said Sykes. “I’m really excited about what’s to
have to give credit to the whole of the BMW Motorrad
come during the season.” ◗
SBK MOTUL
6
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
57
BACK IN THE MIX Honda returns with factory support for riders Leon Camier and Ryuichi Kiyonari
F
58
ans of the Honda brand and the MOTUL FIM
“Honda has competed in World Superbike since the
Superbike World Championship rejoiced this
beginning, and the series has allowed us to develop
offseason when it was announced that factory-
higher-performance products and provide further
supported efforts would be part of the series for the first
feedback to develop new machines,” said Soichi Yamana,
time since Colin Edwards was crowned champion in
motorcycle department manager of the Motor Sports
2002. The Moriwaki Althea Honda Team is fielding two
Division of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “This feedback loop
entries, with Leon Camier and Ryuichi Kiyonari each
has given Honda many victories and championships,
riding a Honda CBR1000RR SP2.
both when we competed with factory teams and also
The excitement brings hope for Honda riders after the
when we decided to continue our campaign under the
Honda satellite teams missed the podium entirely in 2018
guidance of satellite teams from 2003. Today another
with a best finish of fourth. The last rider to ride a Honda
chapter begins. This year we have strengthened our
to victory was the late great Nicky Hayden in 2016.
project in World Superbike and aim to reach greater
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
Leon Camier (2) and Ryuichi Kiyonari (23) are making headway toward getting their Honda Fireblades up into the top 10 positions consistently on race day.
heights with our new partners Moriwaki and Althea.” Camier is throwing a leg over a Honda for the second consecutive season after riding for the Red Bull team in 2018. The English rider is certifiably fast. The 2005 British Supersport and 2009 British Superbike champion entered the world stage in 2010. Though Camier had often been beset by bad luck, injury and ill timing in a World Superbike tenure that has put him on six different bikes, his talent and preparation shine through when he is lapping the circuit. “It’s a real honor to be involved in this project with the support of Honda, and the experience of both Moriwaki and Althea,” said Camier. “It’s all new, of course, and that means we have a lot of work ahead of us, but I think we have good potential and I’m excited to see what we can do. The bike was developed in a different championship, but we’re ready for the challenge. Our main goal is to improve race by race.” The return of veteran rider Kiyonari adds an element of excitement to the series. The Japanese rider endeared himself to British fans with his success and personality in the British Superbike Series, where he captured the 2006, 2007 and 2010 championships. He won three World Superbike events in 2008 and rejoins the series after an eight-year absence. “Kiyo” has a list of accolades that also includes being the winningest active rider in the Suzuka 8 Hours with four career victories. “I am very excited to have this opportunity to return
Why are they called Superbikes? Though AMA officially designated their top production-based motorcycle racing category as Superbike in 1976 and World Superbike was created in 1988, the term “Superbike” dates back to the introduction of productionbased 750cc motorcycles in 1968. Specifically, the surprise unveiling of the four-cylinder Honda CBR750 at the Tokyo Show in November 1968 led the media to dub the machine a “Superbike,” and the name stuck. Common usage of the term Superbike evolved to mean sport bikes defined largely by engine displacement. Superbikes are machines between 850cc to 1200cc (twin cylinder) and 750cc to 1000cc (four cylinder). Superbike racing is traditionally popular among manufacturers abiding by the adage, “Win on Sunday; sell on Monday.”
to World Superbike, and I thank Honda, Moriwaki and Althea for putting their trust in me,” said Kiyonari. “A lot has changed since I was last in the championship in 2009, and I think the level is now a lot higher with many fast riders. Having said that, I have worked hard in recent years and hope I can continue to grow this season with my new bike and new team; I am very motivated and believe we can work together to achieve some good results.” ◗ SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
59
WORLDSBK RIDER PROFILES KAWASAKI RACING TEAM WORLDSBK Kawasaki ZX-10RR
KAWASAKI RACING TEAM WORLDSBK
1
JONATHAN REA KAWASAKI ZX-10RR
DOB 02/02/87 Career highlights Reigning 4× consecutive World Superbike Champion (2015-2018) Winningest driver in World Superbike history Most World Superbike wins at U.S. Round (4: Race 1/2016, Race 2/2017, Race 1 and 2/2018)
60
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
91
LEON HASLAM KAWASAKI ZX-10RR
DOB 05/31/83 Career highlights 2004 World Superbike rookie of the year 3 wins and 2010 World Superbike championship runner-up 2 wins and 2015 4th World Superbike
SBK MOTUL
ARUBA.IT ARUBA.IT RACING RACING –– DUCATI DUCATI
7
CHAZ DAVIES
DUCATI PANIGALE V4 R DOB 02/10/87 Career highlights 2011 World Supersport Champion 2015 and 2017 World Superbike championship runner-up 3 World Superbike wins at U.S. Round (Race 1 and 2/2015; Race 1/2017)
19
ALVARO BAUTISTA DUCATI PANIGALE V4 R
DOB 11/21/84 Career highlights 2006 125cc GP Champion 158 career MotoGP starts Established new record for most consecutive World Superbike wins to start a season
ARUBA.IT RACING – DUCATI
PATA YAMAHA OFFICIAL WORLDSBK TEAM
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Yamaha YZF R1
PATA YAMAHA OFFICIAL WORLDSBK TEAM
22
ALEX LOWES YAMAHA YZF R1
DOB 09/14/90 Career highlights 2013 British Superbike Champion 2× Suzuka 8 Hour winner (2017-2018) Scored first win & 2018 6th World Superbike
SBK MOTUL
60
MICHAEL VAN DER MARK YAMAHA YZF R1
DOB 10/26/92 Career highlights 2011 European Superstock 600 Champion 2014 World Supersport Champion 4× Suzuka 8 Hour winner (2013-2014, 2017-2018) Scored first 2 wins & 3rd 2018 World Superbike
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
61
RIDER PROFILES BMW MOTORRAD WORLDSBK TEAM
66
TOM SYKES BMW S1000 RR
DOB 08/19/85 Career highlights 2013 World Superbike Champion 3× World Superbike championship runner-up (2012, 2014, 2016) All-time leader in World Superbike poles 3 World Superbike wins at U.S. Round (Race 1/2013, Race 2/2014, Race 2/2016)
28
MARKUS REITERBERGER BMW S1000 RR
DOB 03/09/94 Career highlights 2010 Yamaha R6 Dunlop Cup Champion 2× Superbike IDM Champion (2013, 2015) 2018 European Superstock 1000 Champion
BMW MOTORRAD WORLDSBK TEAM
MORIWAKI ALTHEA HONDA TEAM
BMW S1000 RR
Honda CBR1000RR
MORIWAKI ALTHEA HONDA TEAM
2
LEON CAMIER HONDA CBR1000RR
DOB 08/04/83 Career highlights 2005 British Supersport Champion 2009 British Superbike Champion 7th World Superbike 2011 Over 200 career World Superbike starts
62
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
23
RYUICHI KIYONARI HONDA CBR1000RR
DOB 09/23/82 Career highlights 2002 All-Japanese Superstock 600 Champion 3× Suzuka 8 Hour winner 3× British Superbike Champion (2006–2007, 2010) 3 wins and 2008 9th World Superbike
SBK MOTUL
®
ElJefeTequila.com
OFFICIAL TEQUILA
RIDER PROFILES BARNI RACING TEAM
TEAM GO ELEVEN
50
21
EUGENE LAVERTY
MICHAEL RUBEN RINALDI
DUCATI PANIGALE V4 R
DUCATI PANIGALE V4 R
DOB 12/21/95 Career highlights 2011 Coppa Italia 125cc 2T Champion 2017 European Superstock 1000 champion Made World Superbike debut in 2018
DOB 06/03/86 Career highlights 2009 and 2010 World Supersport championship runner-up 9 wins & 2013 World Superbike championship runner-up Won World Superbike U.S. Round in 2013
BARNI RACING TEAM
GRT YAMAHA WORLDSBK
TEAM GO ELEVEN
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Yamaha YZF R1
Ducati Panigale V4 R
GRT YAMAHA WORLDSBK
11
SANDRO CORTESE YAMAHA YZF R1
64
33
MARCO MELANDRI YAMAHA YZF R1
DOB 01/06/90 Career highlights 2012 Moto3 World Champion 2018 FIM Supersport World Champion
DOB 08/07/82 Career highlights 2002 250cc GP World Champion 2005 MotoGP championship runner-up 5 MotoGP wins 2011 World Superbike championship runner-up Top 5 World Superbike championship finishes in all six full seasons 2 World Superbike U.S. Round wins
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
THERE’S NOT AN APP FOR THIS INSURANCE. DRIVERS CLUB. BIKE VALUES. ENTERTAINMENT. THE SHOP. DRIVESHARE. Ride with us. 877-922-1699 | Local Agent | Hagerty.com
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RIDER PROFILES TURKISH PUCCETTI RACING
TEAM PEDERCINI RACING
81
54
JORDI TORRES
TOPRAK RAZGATLIOGLU
KAWASAKI ZX-10RR
KAWASAKI ZX-10RR
DOB 8/27/87 Career highlights Double Spanish Moto2 Champion (2011-2012) Scored first win and 5th World Superbike 2015 Started 5 MotoGP races 2018
DOB 10/16/96 Career highlights Four-time Turkish Motocross Champion 2015 European Superstock 600 Champion 2018 World Superbike rookie of the year
TURKISH PUCCETTI RACING
ALTHEA MIE RACING TEAM
TEAM PEDERCINI RACING
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
Honda CBR1000RR
Kawasaki ZX-10RR
ALTHEA MIE RACING TEAM
52
ALESSANDRO DELBIANCO HONDA CBR1000RR
DOB 7/31/97 Career highlights 7th European Superstock 1000 Championship 2018 Made World Superbike debut in 2019 at age 21
66
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
â——
SBK MOTUL
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2018 Event Recap
REA, BEAUBIER SERVE DOUBLEDOUBLES
C RE D I T
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Jonathan Rea makes the pass for the lead against Chaz Davies during his first of two wins last season. Inset: Cameron Beaubier also earned two victories en route to a championship in MotoAmerica’s Superbike category.
APROPOS OF A RACE TAKING PLACE IN CALIFORNIA— a region synonymous C RE D MIATIN : T. M . HIL L ; IN S E T: B O B H E AT H C O T E
with the popular In-N-Out Burger chain and its famed “Double-Double”—the winning riders of the premier international and domestic Superbike series each layered a double dose of victory. Their parallel stories unfolded at the 2018 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round featuring MotoAmerica Championship of Monterey, whetting the riders’ appetites for glory en route to capturing the season championship titles.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
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2018 Event Recap
an upset-minded Eugene Laverty got the holeshot but couldn’t hold off the hard charge of Rea. Davies later overtook Laverty as well, with both riders finishing on the podium. “I am so, so, so happy to have a weekend like we’ve had—to be so strong,” said Rea. “It doesn’t happen every weekend. This weekend—aside from my tip-off on 64,425 fans over the course of the three-day event
Friday—it’s been plain sailing. I was able to make my
witnessed Jonathan Rea’s landmark race amid a magical
passes, make them stick and go away.
2018 campaign. The Monster Energy Kawasaki rider
marker. I was in no urgency to arrive, and then step
books. After recently eclipsing Carl Fogarty’s all-time
by step I got there and then made my rhythm. It was
mark of 59 wins, Rea collected wins nos. 61 and 62 with
awesome to see my rhythm increasing, and then just five
collective victories that also made him the winningest
or six laps to go I was absorbing the feeling in Laguna
World Superbike rider at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna
Seca in the sunshine. I just felt so blessed to be here and
Seca with his third and fourth U.S. Round victories.
it’s a cool moment.” American race fans got to cheer on three riders
considerable talent in a back-and-forth battle with rival
representing the stars and stripes: Jake Gagne, PJ
Chaz Davies on Saturday’s Race 1. The following day,
Jacobsen, and wild card Josh Herrin. Gagne, a San Diego
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
T HIS PA G E A N D O P P O SI T E : D M T IM A G IN G
from Northern Ireland continued to amend the history
Rea had to work for each win, showcasing his
70
“Eugene had a really good pace and was a really good
Above: Marco Melandri entered as the most recent winner on tour. He finished fifth in Race 1 and retired on the third lap of Race 2. Left: Jake Gagne impressed on his home turf with his first two top 10 finishes one year after his World Superbike debut. Below: Rookie PJ Jacobsen made for one of three American riders on the WorldSBK grid.
native who made his World Superbike debut at the same event one year earlier, had a career weekend aboard the Red Bull Honda Fireblade. Gagne notched his first top 10 finish on Saturday and did one better with a ninth-place effort on Sunday. All eyes were on Herrin, who pulled double duty in his World Superbike debut while also competing in MotoAmerica’s Superbike class on the same Attack Performance bike. One of the things fans love about this event is the ability to compare the performances of riders in the two Superbike series in the same conditions, because the rules are structured the same with the primary difference being the mandated spec tires. Herrin demonstrated his stamina and performed well in each series, with the team’s primary focus being on the MotoAmerica races as they counted toward their seasonlong points tally. Beaubier had scored the Race 1 victory on Saturday aboard the factory Yamaha effort. The Roseville, Calif., SBK MOTUL
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2018 Event Recap
“5 OR 6 LAPS TO GO, I WAS ABSORBING THE FEELING IN LAGUNA SECA IN THE SUNSHINE. I JUST FELT SO BLESSED TO BE HERE.” —JONATHAN REA
C RE D I T
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WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
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Left: Cameron Beaubier stood
native had quite a battle on his hands with ironman Herrin in Race 2. The two jockeyed for the lead with
atop the MotoAmerica Race 1 podium alongside Josh Herrin and Roger Hayden.
aggressive overtakes in the early going. Herrin took
Clockwise from below: Wayne
a spill in the runoff while fighting valiantly to reel
Rainey, Bubba Shobert and
Beaubier back in. The foregone conclusion of Beaubier’s victory from that point shifted the focus onto a
Eddie Lawson, from left, joined Michael Hill during the Paddock Show; Jonathan Rea celebrated
competitive game of musical chairs at 170 mph for the
his Race 1 win with fans waving
remaining podium spots between Toni Elias (Spain),
the Ulster Banner of Northern
Roger Hayden (Owensboro, Ky.), and Matthew Scholtz (South Africa). Yoshimura Suzuki teammates Elias and Hayden nabbed the final two respective spots. “It was a perfect weekend,” said Beaubier. “From the first lap Friday I just felt really comfortable with my R1. I
Ireland; Chaz Davies scored two second-place podiums; Herrin, performing double-duty in both Superbike classes, was joined on the grid by actor Channing Tatum.
just have fun around this place. It’s such a good vibe for me coming here just being so close to home. I treat this as my home race. Thanks to all my family and friends for coming out and cheering me on. Definitely made me dig a little deeper. Hats off to [Josh] Herrin. He was riding so good. He was just reeling off the laps there at the beginning, all the way midway through the race. He made a mistake going into [Turn] 1 and I got in the lead and I just put my head down and started clicking off laps. “I was able to do the same times he was when he was in front. I don’t know if it was just like the yo-yo effect when you’re behind and you’re trying to make some up on the brakes. I’m just really, really happy to get out T HIS PA G E : F R O M T O P: D M T IM A G IN G (2); T. M . HIL L ; K E N W EIS E N B E R G E R; D M T IM A G IN G . O P P O SI T E : D M T IM A G IN G
of here with max points. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the season. Hats off to my Monster Energy/ Yamalube/Yamaha team. They’re behind me 100 percent. I love those guys.” Alex Dumas (Liqui Moly Junior Cup) and Jason Madama (Twins Cup) notched MotoAmerica wins. The last race of the day was MotoAmerica Supersport, which ended in touching fashion. Yamaha rider JD Beach edged Frenchman Valentin Debise for the win. Afterward, Beach stopped during the cooldown lap to honor late fellow Kentuckian Nicky Hayden. He dismounted from his bike and ran up the hillside to high-five the No. 69 billboard that was created to pay tribute to Hayden before the 2017 event. Three full days of off-track fun and on-track fury left fans salivating for this year’s MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship GEICO Motorsports U.S. Round with MotoAmerica. The two-wheel titans who tour the United States and the globe will converge for another memorable weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. ◗ SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
73
CALIFORNIA DREAMING
Cameron Beaubier adds to Yamaha’s storied legacy at his home track
T
he pride of Roseville, Calif., is consistently at
former teammate Josh Hayes in 2015 and 2016. After
his very best when he races for championships
Toni Elias broke the streak in 2017, Beaubier responded
at road courses across the country, yet
with a dominant double victory in 2018.
Cameron Beaubier always seems to tap into
because a lot of my friends and family get to come
home at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
out,” said Beaubier. “It’s one of my home races, so I am
The 26-year-old rider of the Monster Energy/
74
“It is one of my favorite weekends of the year, mainly
that little bit extra when he is racing 200 miles south of
looking forward to it for sure. It’s one of my favorite races
Yamalube/Yamaha Factory Racing Yamaha YZF-R1
because I get to be by the water in Monterey. A lot of my
has contributed to the team’s tremendous success at
family and friends turn a trip out of it. They come out
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where Yamaha
to watch, support me and my brother, and it makes for
factory riders swept the AMA Superbike titles from
a really fun weekend. There is definitely a little bit of
2012 to 2016. Beaubier split the doubleheader with
added pressure, but I like it.”
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
Cameron Beaubier
A little pressure has done nothing but motivate the three-time MotoAmerica EBC Brakes Superbike World Champion (2015-2016, 2018). Prior to his tenure in Superbike, Beaubier excelled in the AMA Pro Daytona Sportbike Championship, where he won the 2013 title and the biggest race that season—the Daytona 200. While he and teammate Garrett Gerloff put forth a strong effort wherever they go, the unique challenge of pacing the undulating 11-turn, 2.237-mile asphalt is an occasion Beaubier is eager to rise for.
“King” Kenny Roberts (2) leads Randy Mamola (6) and Eddie Lawson (21) at the 1983 Champion Spark Plugs 200.
“There is a lot of elevation change, which is tough when you have a lot of power on the Superbikes,” said Beaubier. “When you’re dealing with 200-plus horsepower, it’s hard to keep the front wheel down. And you know it’s tight and twisty. You have to make sure your bike is on the right line all of the time. If you’re a little bit late on one corner, it could affect the next
Blue by You Yamaha has collected more professional motorcycle racing wins at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca than any other brand
three. It’s definitely a pretty unique and special track.” RIDER
WINS SERIES
the opportunity to compete in the same conditions
Kenny Roberts
7
AMA Grand National (5) | Formula 750 (2)
as the riders in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World
Josh Hayes
6
AMA Superbike
Championship. The top riders for the blue brand in
Cameron Beaubier
4
AMA Superbike
Wayne Rainey
3
MotoGP
Noriyuki Haga
2
WorldSBK
Skip Aksland
1
Formula 750
stage and getting to see some of those guys race,” said
Steve Baker
1
AMA Grand National
Beaubier. “I really look forward to these events when
Mike Baldwin
1
AMA Grand National
the world guys come over here and race. It’s a good
Ben Bostrom
1
AMA Superbike
opportunity to see where we stack up timewise with
Luca Cadalora
1
MotoGP
Eddie Lawson
1
MotoGP
Jorge Lorenzo
1
MotoGP
Valentino Rossi
1
MotoGP
In addition to racing for victories, Beaubier relishes
World Superbike are Pata Yamaha’s Michael van der Mark (Netherlands) and Alex Lowes (Great Britain) and GRT Yamaha’s Marco Melandri (Italy).
T HIS PA G E : T O P: B RI A N J. N E L S O N
“I think it is cool being in front of the World Superbike
those guys and also for them to see who is coming up and see how we’re doing. My goal is definitely to get on a world stage, and I think that the World Superbike path can be [a] really good spot for me in the future.” ◗ SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
75
Photo Credit: Brian J. Nelson
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BORN
WILD
Josh Herrin returns to the site of his memorable double-duty stint— with a new ride at Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing
L
ast year at WeatherTech Raceway
Herrin began the week participating in
Laguna Seca, MotoAmerica’s resident
the Golden Gate Bridge promotion, where
wild man Josh Herrin showed a
World Superbike and MotoAmerica riders
wide audience why he is so captivating to
took dealership sport bikes across the
motorcycle racing fans in the U.S. and his
famous landmark and into the streets of
large following on social media. He made his World Superbike debut as a wild card entry and competed in MotoAmerica’s Superbike category
San Francisco by escort from the California Highway Patrol. Riders were well behaved during the photo op going across the bridge, though it
on the same bike in an ironman performance with the
was Herrin who lit the fuse for the professional racers to
team, changing number plates and the spec tire assigned
have a little fun when he broke into a rolling burnout.
by each respective series between sessions. But the antics didn’t stop away from the track.
During the event, all eyes were on Herrin as he pulled double duty in the summer heat. He was one of three
2013 AMA Superbike champion Josh Herrin is back on a factory team in 2019 as a rider for Yoshimura
M A IN IM A G E : B RI A N J. N E L S O N; IN S E T: D M T IM A G IN G
Suzuki Factory Racing.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
77
BORN TO BE WILD
American riders on the World Superbike grid along with
game in MotoAmerica Superbike, setting a lap record of
Jake Gagne and PJ Jacobsen. Though he was battling for
1:22.908 during Superpole qualifying. He battled double
wins in the MotoAmerica Superbike category as well, he
winner Cameron Beaubier hard, scoring a second-place
felt the support of the entire fanbase when he took on
finish in Race 1 and retiring in Race 2 after sliding into the
the international riders.
runoff area following several laps of lead-swapping. Done
“That was something totally special that I’ve always
competing at the event after putting in more laps than any
wanted to do,” said Herrin. “Having the support of
other rider in warm conditions, Herrin embraced his fans
the entire MotoAmerica fan base was a really big deal.
leaning over the fence at the Corkscrew. These memorable
Knowing that all of them are in our corner is something
experiences further built Herrin’s legend. He returns to
a little bit different. Fans who are usually rooting for
the 2019 event following an off-season of change.
Toni Elias or Cameron Beaubier or Garrett Gerloff or
Throughout 2018, Herrin made no bones about his goal
anyone else in MotoAmerica will be rooting for the
of getting back on a factory ride. Red ballcaps were even
Americans in World Superbike. That is something really
printed with the slogan “Make Herrin Factory Again.” A
special and motivating.”
window opened when Roger Hayden elected to retire at
Herrin’s combined qualifying and Superpole efforts
the end of the 2018 season, and Yoshimura Suzuki Factory
put him at No. 15 position in World Superbike, just
Racing chose Herrin to ride the Suzuki GSX-R1000,
ahead of his American counterparts Gagne and
joining teammate and 2017 champion Toni Elias.
Jacobsen. He was a magnet for attention during
“It’s been a goal of mine to get back on a factory team
Saturday’s pre-grid as he was joined by A-list movie
since I won the Superbike championship in 2013,” said
star Channing Tatum, a motorcycle enthusiast who he
Herrin. “I feel honored to now be a part of Yoshimura
befriended during motorcycle track day events.
Suzuki with its long tradition of winning. I look forward
Herrin advanced his positions during both World
to working side by side with Toni and the rest of the
Superbike races but retired early in each in order for
team. We’ll both be working towards the common goal
the team to prepare for the MotoAmerica races that
of making the 2019 Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 into a
followed immediately thereafter. Herrin was on his
championship winner.” ◗
Herrin on WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
78
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
B RI A N J. N E L S O N
“It’s one of those tracks that you find out more tricks the more laps you make there. My favorite section is Turn 1. A lot of people talk about the Corkscrew, which is obviously an awesome corner. I think Turn 1 is a magical corner. One time that I always talk about was being on a 600 in 2010 or 2011. I was coming over Turn 1 wide open at 130 or 140 mph. There are the little traffic cones on the inside corner. I was leaned over, dragging a knee, and the rear wheel had let go. It was sliding coming over the corner, and the front wheel lifted in the air because of the elevation as I was dragging my knee. I was hitting my elbow on the cones all at the same time. I remember it almost like time was paused, because there was so much going on in my mind during just a split second. You couldn’t even blink an eye in the time that I did it. It felt like an eternity sitting there thinking about how awesome that moment was and how few people get to experience that in their lives. That really stuck. “Laguna was where I got my first ever professional win in 2007. I got my first and second championship[s] at Laguna. It’s been a special, special track for me. A lot of it also has to do with Nicky Hayden getting his first MotoGP win there. He was a hero of mine, and I was there to see it.”
MOTOAMERICA EBC BRAKES
SUPERBIKE Beaubier vs. Elias battle gets a brighter spotlight and more competition PHOTOS BY BRIAN J. NELSON
80
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
PREVIEW
Above: Three-time and reigning Superbike champion Cameron Beaubier has kept within striking distance with two wins and eight podiums. Monterey is a home race for Beaubier and the site of his double victory in 2018. Opposite: 2017 Superbike champion Toni Elias is in top form with five wins in the first 10 races of the 2019 season.
SBK MOTUL
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81
SUPERBIKE PREVIEW
he top category in MotoAmerica continues to gain steam with incredible racing in the AMA Superbike tradition and a new TV package to showcase the top domestic motorcycle road-racing product to viewers from coast to coast. Every EBC Brakes Superbike race is covered this season on FOX Sports 2. Additionally, an hourlong “Inside MotoAmerica” recap show with race highlights
Suzuki Factory Racing. Josh Herrin was selected to join Yoshimura
and features airs on NBCSN, and the MotoAmerica
Suzuki with 13 years of professional road racing in
Live+ paid subscription service offers the livestream of
his background, which includes an AMA Superbike
all five MotoAmerica categories.
Championship in 2013 and a MotoAmerica Superstock
Racers have delivered to the expanded viewership with incredible racing during the first five rounds of the 10-round season. It began with an offseason of intrigue following Roger Hayden’s retirement
82
announcement that left a spot to be filled at Yoshimura
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
1000 title in 2016. Herrin also has world championship experience, having raced Moto2 in 2014. “It’s been a goal of mine to get back on a factory team since I won the Superbike championship in 2013,” said
SBK MOTUL
Herrin. “I feel honored to now be a part of Yoshimura Suzuki with its long tradition of winning. I look forward to working side by side with Toni and the rest of the team. We’ll both be working towards the common goal of making the 2019 Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 into a championship winner.” That left another vacated seat aboard Richard Stanboli’s Attack Performance Yamaha YZF-R1. 2018 Supersport champion JD Beach was selected to move up in classification. The versatile rider from Owensboro, Ky., now has rides in the premier classes of both MotoAmerica and American Flat Track, in which he is competing for a Grand National title aboard a Yamaha MT-p7 owned by Estenson Racing. “I’m really looking forward to racing Superbike next year,” said Beach. “It’s going to be great working with Attack again. I feel really lucky that Estenson Racing decided they wanted two irons in the fire and to run
2019 Championship Standings (after 5 of 10 rounds)
1 Toni Elias 201 2 Cameron Beaubier 175 3 Garrett Gerloff 136 4 Josh Herrin 119 5 JD Beach 111 6 Mathew Scholtz 100 7 Jake Lewis 97 8 David Anthony 66 9 Cameron Petersen 65 10 Kyle Wyman 55 11 Jake Gagne 53 12 Max Flinders 47 13 Sam Verderico 39 14 Samuel Trepanier 19 15 Jayson Uribe 16 16 Geoff May 14 17 Mathew Orange 13 18 Travis Wyman 12 19 Bradley Ward 4 20 Felipe MacLean 4 21 Jeremy Coffey 0
Toni Elias (24) and new teammate Josh Herrin (2) have combined to win seven of the first 10 races of 2019 for Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing. Above right: Jake Gagne, who earned his best World Superbike finishes at this event last season, returns to MotoAmerica with the Scheibe Racing BMW team.
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
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SUPERBIKE PREVIEW
me in both American Flat Track and MotoAmerica. It’s going to be an awesome year! Also, I’m very grateful that RiCKdiculous Racing gave me their blessing to leave the team and basically told me I would be crazy to not go race Superbike.” Both Herrin and Beach have validated their selections with victories this season. Herrin has won twice at Race 2 at Circuit of the Americas and Race 2 at Road America, making it a Suzuki sweep in each instance with teammate Toni Elias winning Race 1. Beach added “Superbike winner” to his long list of accolades with a breakthrough victory in Race 2 at Virginia. One thing that didn’t change during the offseason is the ferocity of the battle up top between 2017 champion Elias and three-time and defending champion Cameron Beaubier. Elias has won half of the races in 2019, including a sweep of the most recent event at Utah Motorsports Campus. However, the Spaniard with international championship credentials is still in the sights of the Northern Californian from the Yamaha Factory Racing team. Beaubier, who traditionally gets better from the midpoint of the season onward, began the year with a victory at the first race. Though a Race 1 win in Virginia has been his only other score, he has stood on the podium in eight of 10 instances, just shy of Elias’ mark that would be flawless if not for a DNF after crashing in Race 2 at Elkhart Lake. Continuity in the Yamaha camp is also evident with the return of second-year rider Garrett Gerloff. The twotime Supersport champion is coming into his own in the top category. Though he still seeks his first victory, the 23-year-old Houston rider has shown great poise with a streak of six consecutive podium finishes heading in the MotoAmerica Championship of Monterey. Mathew Scholtz returns with Westby Racing after a tremendous 2018 campaign that earned the South African rider rookie-of-the-year honors. Having finished Top: Two-time Supersport champion Garrett Gerloff continues his progression in his second year in the top category, currently riding a string of six consecutive podium finishes. Inset: American motorcycle racing legend and MotoAmerica president Wayne Rainey continues pushing motorcycle road racing back to prominence in the United States with a better television package for 2019. Above: Reigning Supersport champion JD Beach was selected to ride the Attack Performance/Estenson Racing Yamaha, and he earned his first Superbike win at only the third round of the season in Virginia.
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WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
fourth with eight podium finishes and a win, he has finished second on two occasions thus far in 2019. 23-year-old Owensboro, Ky., resident Jake Lewis returns with the M4 ECSTAR Suzuki team. Lewis has finished as high as fifth during multiple occasion this year and is batting 1.000 at securing top 10 positions. Following a season trotting the globe in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, Jake Gagne SBK MOTUL
SUPERBIKE PREVIEW
returns to MotoAmerica in the EBC Brakes Superbike category. The San Diego native joined Scheibe Racing to ride a BMW Motorrad S 1000 RR for 2019. “I’m excited to be back in the MotoAmerica paddock,” said Gagne. “I missed all the fans and the racetracks, and I’m really happy to be racing in America again. I’m ready to get to work, keep having some fun, keep learning, and try to build on Scheibe Racing’s already excellent program.” 24-year-old South African rider Cameron Petersen began his second Superbike season with his second team, now riding for Omega Moto. “Aussie Dave” Anthony has posted solid results all season while also fielding the bike ridden by Sam Verderico. Privateer Kyle Wyman has finished as high as sixth this year with a new Ducati Panigale V4 program. 22-year-old Louisiana native Max Flinders continues his progression on his trusty yellow No. 888 Yamaha. Above: MotoAmerica EBC Brakes points leader Toni Elias, right, and rival Cameron Beaubier show their respect after Elias’ hard-fought win in Utah. Below: Reigning Supersport champion JD Beach was selected to ride the Attack Performance/Estenson Racing Yamaha, and he earned his first Superbike win at only the third round of the season in Virginia.
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WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
For the past couple years, epic battles have taken place at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in a category that seems to want to one-up its international counterparts. Look for the top MotoAmerica riders to deliver great racing action. ◗
SBK MOTUL
MotoAmerica SUPERSPORT PREVIEW Former World Superbike rider PJ Jacobsen returns to the MotoAmerica Supersport category with the Celtic HSBK Racing team.
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WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
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Left: Among the many up-and-coming talents that define the Supersport category is Mexico City’s Richie Escalante Inset: Four-time AMA Superbike champion Josh Hayes made a surprise return in the Supersport class as he guns for the all-time win mark.
.
THE LANDSCAPE OF THE MOTOAMERICA SUPERSPORT CATEGORY has changed significantly, yet it is alive and well with more than 30 participants who are chock-full of talent. The initial days of the category were dominated by two-time champion Garrett Gerloff, who was called
Kelly figure to be in the mix all season. The veteran Fong
up to Superbike in 2018, and JD Beach, who moved
notched his first victory of the year in Race 2 in Atlanta and
up this season. Furthermore, one of Beach’s primary
swapped wins with Gillim at each of the last two rounds.
competition last year—French rider Valentin DeBise— is holding out for a Superbike ride after being in
Speaking of veterans, 44-year-old Josh Hayes is adding to one of the most accomplished careers in AMA
the running to replace the retired Roger
history by joining the Supersport foray in the
Hayden on the Yamaha team, a role that
second race of the year. The four-time
was awarded to Josh Herrin. So where does that leave us in 2019? The influx of new talent starts
AMA Superbike champion entered the season with 83 career wins, just shy of Miguel DuHamel’s all-time mark of
with PJ Jacobsen. The upstate New
86. Encouraged by his performance on
Yorker returns to his roots after
the MP13 Racing Yamaha YZF-R6 at
spending much of his career in Europe and giving it a full go in World Superbike in 2018. The talented rider joins Celtic HSBK Racing, and early returns are promising with a win at Race 1 in Virginia. Middleweight motorcycle road racing is strong
the Daytona 200, Hayes is competing in Supersport for the first time in his career on the same bike. Former MP13 Racing rider Cory Ventura is making his Supersport debut on the CV28 Racing Yamaha YZF-R6. The 17-year-old Northern California
with homegrown talent as well. Mexico native Richie
resident is making the move up from a successful stint
Escalante is coming into his own with the Hudson
in Liqui Moly Junior Cup.
Motorcycles – HB Racing team. 2018 championship B RI A N J. N E L S O N
M4 Ecstar teammates Bobby Fong and Sean Dylan
Danny Eslick, an accomplished rider with two Pro
runner-up Hayden Gillim is also a talent that will be
Daytona Sportbike championships and four Daytona 200
difficult to suppress, a point he drove home with a
victories, will ride a BARTCON Racing/Farrell Performance
season-opening victory in Atlanta, followed by more
Kawasaki ZX-6R. Eslick raced a BMW for Scheibe Racing
recent victories in Virginia, Elkhart Lake and Utah.
in last year’s MotoAmerica Superbike class. ◗
SBK MOTUL
2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
89
LIQUI MOLY
JUNIOR CUP PREVIEW
M
otoAmerica’s youth movement is in
a rider out of Ashland, Mo. Dallas Daniels, who will turn
full force in the Liqui Moly Junior Cup
16 before attending the MotoAmerica Championship of
class. The Liqui Moly Junior Cup class
Monterey, stood next to Landers on the podium six times
is the first rung on the ladder to the
in 2019 before earning his first win in Utah.
Superbike class for up-and-coming
young riders ages 14 to 28. The engine configurations
the top riders this season is 18-year-old Kevin Olmedo
are four-stroke motors with one or two cylinders.
from El Salvador, who rides for Altus motorsports. There
“The Liqui Moly Junior Cup class has some of the best racing in our series and it’s most definitely one of the most entertaining,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “We can’t wait to see
are two South African riders on the grid; 17-year-old Dominic Doyle and 14-year-old Samuel Lochoff each made their MotoAmerica debut this season and have yielded positive results.
which of our young riders comes away with the
The youngest rider in the series is
championship this coming season.”
14-year-old Grayson Davidson from
The breakout star of the category is 14-yearold Rocco Landers. Landers came up in the California Minimoto Racing Series and ran in Italy and Spain before committing to
Cochrane, Alb. Many are tracking the progress of Jamie Astudillo, who moved to the category one season after becoming the first woman to place
MotoAmerica this season. The rider of the No. 97
on a podium at a MotoAmerica event.
Landers Racing Kawasaki Ninja 400R from Burns,
The professional riders of tomorrow put on quite a show while they test and
by sweeping the rounds in Atlanta and Elkhart Lake
improve their skills at MotoAmerica events
and splitting wins in Virginia with Cameron Jones,
from coast to coast. ◗
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
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B RI A N J. N E L S O N
Ore., got a big jump in the championship points
90
The popular class has international appeal. One of
Opposite page, top: 18-year-old former motocross racer Jamie Astudillo became the first woman to podium in MotoAmerica last season. Inset: 14-yearold Rocco Landers is the leader of the pack on the No. 97 early in the 2019 season. Below: Championship winners like Josh Hayes pass their knowledge on to the developing riders of the Liqui Moly Junior Cup category.
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2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
91
STOCK1000 PREVIEW DESIGNED AS A FEEDER CLASS TO
That being said, there is good parity among the touring
the EBC Brakes Superbike category, riders in Stock 1000
racers at the top of the class.
are racing similar three- and four-cylinder bikes up to 1000cc and twins up to 1200cc. Stock 1000 allows a great number of riders who may not follow the entire series to mix it up and provide local flavor when MotoAmerica comes to their backyard.
In the first four rounds of the 2019 season, four different winners took the top step of the podium. Stefano Mesa, Andrew Lee, Michael Gilbert and Geoff May have each had a turn at winning in 2019. Mesa had competed at WERA and club racing in recent years with success at sporadic MotoAmerica appearances, and a focused effort has him battling for the Stock 1000 title. The MESA37 Racing rider has been a model of consistency with podiums at each of the first four events that paid off with a win at Road Atlanta. Lee, a 20-year-old from nearby Clovis, Calif., won the season opener on the Franklin Armory/Graves Kawasaki, putting himself in position to battle for the championship. His most recent win in Utah gives him momentum heading to Monterey. The versatile rider
After racing in Superstock and Supersport the previous two seasons, Michael Gilbert has been a factor in the Stock 1000 category with Team Norris Racing. Stefano Mesa (37) and Andrew Lee (1) have each put marks in the win column aboard their 1000cc machines.
B RI A N J. N E L S O N
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WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
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TO N I E L I A S | YO S H I M U R A S U Z U K I | M OTO A M E R I C A S U P E R B I K E C H A M P I O N
STICKING WITH THE BEST
C H I C K E N H AW K R AC ING had won championships in Flat Track, Super Moto and Motocross before committing to road racing. Gilbert, a 22-year-old Southern California native who is a motorcycle racing journalist when not competing, joined the liter ranks this year with Team Norris Racing. He began the year strong with first- and second-place finishes. May is a former factory and Superbike rider who competed in Superbike at the season opener on a BMW and brought a Kawasaki out to Round Four at Road America, where he captured the win. Though his appearances may be sporadic, May is among the favorites to win whenever he lands on the grid. Californians such as Napa’s Roi Holster and Los Angeles’ Chad Lewin figure to capitalize on their familiarity of the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca road course when they return for the MotoAmerica Championship of Monterey. ◗
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2019 / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / WORLDSBK
93
Clockwise: Reigning champion Chris Parrish (1) battles Curtis Murray (180) and a stacked Twins Cup grid in 2019. Though too young to taste champagne on the podium, 19-year-old Draik Beauchamp was elated after the Liqui Moly Junior Cup graduate earned his first Twins Cup victory. Michael Barnes came out like gangbusters at the start of the season with a double win on his Ducati Monster 797.
TWINS CUP PREVIEW
S
howcasing riders of the middleweight, twincylinder motorcycles, Twins Cup allows regional and club racers from coast to coast to step up and race at an elite level.
Reigning champion Chris Parrish returns this season
to defend the No. 1 motor plate on his Suzuki SV650. Though he has managed to find every spot on the podium in his early efforts, he finds tight competition at the top of the ranks. Michael Barnes with
Cup. 2018 champion Quebec-based Alex Dumas, 16,
Quarterley Racing is
is competing with the Roadracing World Young Guns
sometimes the lone Ducati
on a Suzuki SV650, and he notched his first victory in
in the field with his Monster
Utah. Also moving up is 19-year-old Draik Beauchamp.
797. The former Formula
The Tennessee native made good in his first Twins Cup
USA champion scored a
season by notching his first victory at Elkhart Lake on
double win at the season
his Yamaha FZ-07/MT-07.
opener in Road Atlanta and figures to stay in the mix
Madama is racing a Yamaha FZ-07 with power coming
throughout the season.
from Portland’s EDR Performance. A strong grid that
Riders from the Liqui
includes Curtis Murray, Joseph Blasius, Chris Bays and
Moly Junior Cup category
others promises for some great twin-engine racing on
have graduated up to Twins
the Monterey Peninsula. ◗
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
SBK MOTUL
B RI A N J. N E L S O N
94
2019 championship runner-up Jason “Hammer”
WE ARE 62 DEGREES OF LEAN
*
WE ARE DUNLOP
0
350
0
10
20
30
40
31
50
0
32
330
340
60 70 80
90 100 11 0 120
62°
0
23
13 14
0
150
160
170 180 190
20 0 210
0
22
*As tested by Dunlop on a 2017 Suzuki GSX-R 1000 RR on a closed track at Barber Motorsports Park.
@RideDunlop DunlopMotorcycleTires.com ©2019 Dunlop Motorcycle Tires
SPORTMAX
Q4
CALENDAR 2019
US ROUND JULY 12-14
MOTUL FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 1 Yamaha Finance Australian Round
Feb 22-24
Phillip Island Circuit
2 Pirelli Thai Round
March 23-25
Chang International Circuit
3 Motocard Aragรณn Round
April 5-7
Motorland Aragรณn
4 Motul Dutch Round
April 12-14
TT Circuit Assen
5 Pirelli Italian Round May 10-12
Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari
6 Acerbis Spanish Round
June 7-9
Circuito de Jerez
7 Pata Riviera Di Rimini Round
June 21-23
Misano World Circuit
8 Prosecco DOC UK Round
July 5-7
Donington Park
Program produced and published for DORNA/Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca by
RossMadrid Group, Inc. 6732 Eton Avenue Los Angeles, California 91303 luxury@rossmadrid.com Studio 818 932 0499
9 GEICO Motorcycle US Round
July 12-14
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
10 Portuguese Round
Sept 6-8
Autรณdromo Internacional do Algarve
11 French Round
Sept 28-30
Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours
12 Motul Argentinean Round
Oct 11-13
El Villicum Circuit, San Juan
13 Qatar Round
Oct 24-26
Losail International Circuit
EDITOR
Brad Littlefield COPY EDITOR
Nancy Wong Bryan CREATIVE DIRECTORS
Robert Ross Roland K Madrid
MOTOAMERICA 1 Suzuki Championship at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
April 5-7
Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
ART & DESIGN
2 Championship of Texas
April 12-14
Circuit of the Americas
Mary Franz Corbin Zahrt
3 Championship of Virginia
May 4-5
Virginia International Raceway
4 Dunlop Championship
May 31-June 2 Road America
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Robert Willoughby
5 Championship of Utah
June 15-16
Utah Motorsports Campus
6 Championship of Monterey
July 12-14
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
7 Cycle Gear Championship
August 10-11
Sonoma Raceway
8 Championship of Pittsburgh
August 23-25 Pittsburgh International Race Complex
9 Championship of New Jersey
Sept 7-8
New Jersey Motorsports Park
10 Championship of Alabama
Sept 20-22
Barber Motorsports Park
WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA March 29-30
Trans Am SpeedFest
May 3-5
Ferrari Racing Days
May 10-12
MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship GEICO Motorcycle US Round with MotoAmerica
July 12-14
Monterey Pre-Reunion Races
August 10-11
Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
August 15-18
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship
Sept 13-15
Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey
Sept 20-22
96
WORLDSBK / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA / 2019
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