With the season kicking off in just a few days, the FIM have presented the list of bikes eligible for competition this year

The WorldSBK and WorldSSP riders are lined up and raring to race this weekend, check out the weekend's full schedule down below!

Live coverage of WorldSBK will be provided on ANT1+, while free-to-air highlights will be on ANT1 TV

Testing at Phillip Island concluded with Nicolo Bulega setting the pace for Ducati. The strong form of the Italian brand was proven as they locked out the first four spots on the timesheet. The bimota duo of Axel Bassani and Alex Lowes were the closest challengers as the paddock now gears up for the first race of the season this weekend.

• Bulega (Aruba.it Racing - Ducati) topped all four sessions during testing and completed 138 laps of the 4.445km circuit. The Italian is the clear favourite, having set a time of 1'28.630 while also being the most consistent rider. 

• Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) was the closest challenger to Bulega, with the Brit six tenths of a second slower. His morning session ended with a consistent 15-lap stint, as many riders used the slightly cooler conditions for race simulations.

• Bassani and Lowes showed strong pace for bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team, with the Italian setting his fastest time of the day in the morning, while Lowes left it until his final lap. The duo completed a combined total of 140 laps.

• A Turn 11 crash for Jake Dixon opened the day and left the Honda HRC rider sidelined for the opening round with a fracture to his left wrist. The incident occurred on his first flying lap of the day. Later in the session, Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) crashed at Turn 2. Alvaro Bautista crashed at Turn 10 in the afternoon session, but the Barni Spark Racing Team rider still completed 74 laps to top the mileage charts.

• Lorenzo Baldassari's comeback to the Superbike class continues to impress. The Team GoEleven rider ended the test third fastest. Miguel Oliveira was the leading rookie with ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team's Portuguese rider seventh fastest.

P1 - Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing - Ducati): "I feel good with the bike. We tried something different during the second session but then we decided to go back to the previous setting. When you already have a good feeling and you can push with confidence but changing things is not always better. So we returned to the morning setting and everything went well again. At the moment it's just a test so the goal is to improve. I think there are still many areas where we can take a step forward, and I want to do that together with my team. We'll work during these days before the race weekend and then we'll see where we are."

P2 - Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team): "I had a really good day. We improved the bike this afternoon and I started to find a good rhythm after doing a longer run this morning to understand my feeling with the bike. I did my best lap on the second run of the tyre which is positive at Phillip Island. I feel competitive. With the hard tyre I think we'll be a bit closer and that's the tyre that we'll have for the race. The team has done a great job to improve the bike session by session. I still have areas we can work on but we're in the mix."

P3 - Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven): "It was another positive day. I enjoyed the bike and the track and I could improve lap after lap. We're working on the base setting to suit me better. It was good to confirm yesterday's speed and today we focused on consistency with the race tyre. Honestly, the results from testing is a bit unexpected because during tests I prefer to build step by step rather than push too much. But we improved the pace, built a strong feeling with the bike, and I think we're ready for the first race weekend."

Masia leads the way as rain closes play

• Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) completed a strong two-day test at Phillip Island to set the pace in the Supersport class. The Spaniard completed 39 laps today but heavy rain during the final two hour session brought the action to a premature close.

• PTR Triumph Factory Racing teammates Oli Bayliss and Tom Booth-Amos ended the day second and third fastest. For Bayliss it sets the scene for another strong home round while Booth-Amos was a race winner here twelve months ago.

• Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) was the only rider in the Top 15 not to improve on his morning time before the rain came in. The German ended the day fourth on the combined times.

P1 - Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura): "The morning session went quite well for us. We focused on understanding the bike. The afternoon was a bit crazy with the rain and wind but we finisher first. I feel confident for the weekend. I like to ride alone and to stay calm and consistent. If the race were tomorrow  my target would be to lead and stay consistent."

The post WSBK: Final Test Complete, Attention Turns to the Opening Round appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Hoban Brothers Racing is proud to announce that Seth Dahmer will join the team for the upcoming MotoAmerica Twins Cup season, marking a new position for Hoban Brothers as they field a competitive Suzuki GSX8R.

Seth has long been part of the Hoban Brothers family, and this partnership represents joining the family business operated by his father and Tom & Pat Hoban, along with second generation Tyger & Brad Hoban.

"It feels really good to ride for Hoban Brothers because they have always stood by my side," said Dahmer. "Last year I rode for Altus Motorsports and it was great. I certainly owe a lot to the Nassaney family and the whole team, we had a top five finish and battled for top tens all year."

For the 2026 campaign, Seth will pilot a V&H Suzuki platform that has proven to be highly competitive in the Twins Cup paddock, and the team is confident in its performance potential.

"We know the V&H Suzuki is very competitive, we have worked very closely with Terry Vance and their crew the last 3 years in their MotoAmerica King of the Baggers program" the team shared.

Serving as crew chief will be Mark Stiles of TSE. Dahmer and Stiles have worked together fulltime for the past two seasons, bringing valuable chemistry and technical consistency into this new chapter.

Hoban Brothers Racing is also grateful for the continued support of its premier sponsors in Darkhorse Motor Co, Lane Tank, NEW Industries, and Spectro Oils. Their continued commitment provides the resources and support to be competitive in today's  MotoAmerica paddock.

With roots in racing dating back to the 1990s, Hoban Brothers Racing brings decades of experience to the paddock. Dahmer reflects on that legacy with pride and determination.

"Hoban Brothers Racing and my father were racing in Daytona the day I was born, so we have the experience we need as a team. Now, in my second year, I need to step up in MotoAmerica and showcase my talents."

For the 2026 season, Dahmer has been granted the #34 plate for 2026 — a number steeped in racing history. It was previously carried by Hoban Brothers standout rider Michael Barnes, but a #34 Suzuki has also been piloted by Kevin Schwantz and Wes Cooley.  "These are pretty big shoes to fill, and it is quite an honor," Dahmer said.

With a competitive machine, a proven crew, and the backing of a dedicated team and sponsors, Seth Dahmer and Hoban Brothers Racing are poised to make a strong statement in the 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup season.  Filling out the Hoban Brothers Racing / MotoAmerica sponsor program include RS Taichi & Moto Liberty, Arai helmets, Dunlop, Saddlemen, Barnett Clutches, Scott's Rodz & Wreckz, ID Designs, FU Sport Boots, Regina Chain, DP Brakes & Brand & Design Company

The post MotoAmerica: Dahmer Joins Hoban Brothers Racing in Twins Cup appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Racers from across the country gathered together in the California desert for Round 5 of the CVMA 2025/2026 winter series. As usual, the weather was perfect for the entire weekend with Sunny skies and mild temperatures.

The event kicked off Friday morning for a full day of practice. A lightly attended New Racer School, welcomed a few new racers into the amateur ranks of the club.

On Saturday morning, riders turned in incredibly fast qualifying times, and the races were exciting and very close all weekend.

• Saturday Qualifying

The fastest of all in Saturday morning qualifying, David Anthony topped the field of open-class bikes, turning a 1:44.431 lap time.

Brenden Ketelesen was fastest on a middleweight, turning a 1:45.784 lap time.

Kensei Matsudaira was fastest on a lightweight bike with a 1:50.393 lap time.

Sawyer Lafayette was fastest on an ultra-lightweight bike with a 1:54.711 lap time.

Bill Coolahan was fastest on a CVMA Hooligan bike with a 1:50.617 lap time.

• Saturday Races

Standout racers from Saturday's races included:

Sahar Zivik won three open class races, including Open Supersport, Formula Open, and

Formula 40.

Kensei Matsudaira won the Formula Middleweight Cup, Formula Twins, and Formula 2 races.

• Sunday Shootouts

In the premier race of the day, The Shootout, David Anthony (Yamaha YZF-R1) got the hole shot and led the pack through turn one, followed by Michael Gilbert (Yamaha YZF-R1) in second and Nicholas Ciling (Yamaha YZF-R1) in third. The running order for the top three was set after the first turn and remained unchanged. At the end of the race, Anthony took the checkered flag first with Gilbert and Ciling trailing in second and third, respectively.

In the Middleweight Shootout, Brenden Ketelesen (Kawasaki ZX-6R) took the hole shot into turn one. At the end of the first lap, Ketelesen led, followed by Alexander Enriquez (Yamaha YZF-R9) in second, and Aldo Rovirosa (Yamaha YZF-R6) in third. Rovirosa was able to pass Enriquez for second on the second lap, but Enriquez quickly regained the position at the start of the third lap. Enriquez and Rovirosa rode nose to tail for the first half of the race. During the second half of the race, Enriquez slowly built a gap, and by the end, the top three riders were well separated. At the finish, it was Ketelesen for the win, Enriquez second, and Rovirosa third.

Full race results can be found on Speedhive: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/events/3347675

Replays of the races and pre-show interviews are available on the 951 Live YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@951live

Next Round. Come out and join us for the next round of the CVMA 25/26 Winter Series on 3/20- 3/22.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.

CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting in racing on the Friday before each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.

CVMA. For racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!

CVMA would also like to thank the 2025-2026 Winter Series Sponsors: Support Moto Racing, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, CaliPhotography, Racers Edge/Dunlop, RoadRace City/Bridgestone, Del's Flooring, The California Superbike School, Ride HMVC, First Team IT, Yamaha, CT Racing/Pirelli, Compact Octane Trackdays, 2 Fast Track Days, LapSnap

NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Five Gloves, and Racers Edge/Dunlop

The post CVMA: Results From Round 5 of the Winter Series appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Honda has once again turned to the MotoGP paddock in its search for answers in WorldSBK. On paper, there is plenty to like about the latest reset. In reality, there are just as many reasons to wonder whether history is about to repeat itself.

When the 2020 WorldSBK season kicked off there was plenty of optimism within Honda. The Fireblade was back as a factory effort, the cheque book had been opened for Alvaro Bautista to lead the project. The championship felt ready for a shake-up. Six years on and Team HRC is still searching for the breakthrough that was supposed to come quickly.

Another season brings another reset with a new rider line-up signaling the latest fresh start. The question is no longer whether Honda can rebuild but rather if the latest rebuild will deliver.

Jake Dixon arrives to lead the charge. The Brit has forged a strong reputation in Moto2 after making the leap from British Superbikes but WorldSBK will be a different challenge. The Fireblade has potential, but unlocking it will take time. At least Dixon has knows the Pirelli tyres from Moto2. The paddock though knows Honda's track record.

More new blood

• Read more about Steve English' 2026 WorldSBK Preview - Another reset for Honda
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Alex Escrig has become the first ever Moto2 rider to lap the Circuito de Jerez in less than 1'39. On the final day of preseason testing for the Moto2 class, the Forward Racing rider squeezed out a lap of 1'38.815, two tenths faster than Manu Gonzalez had lapped on Monday, and a whole seven tenths faster than Deniz Öncü's outright lap record set last year during practice.

• Read more about 2026 Jerez Moto2 Test Day 2 Times: Escrig Leads Vietti At End Of Preseason Testing
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The regional government of Victoria, the Australian state where both Phillip Island and the city of Melbourne are located, have rejected a request from MotoGP organizer Dorna to move the Australian round of MotoGP from the Phillip Island circuit to Albert Park, the circuit inside Melbourne used for F1. 

A statement issued by the government of Victoria expressed support for the Phillip Island circuit hosting MotoGP. "The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is synonymous with Phillip Island, and Victoria is proud to support it," the statement read. "Today the Allan Labor Government ruled out a request from Dorna Sports to move the event from Phillip Island to Albert Park. As regional Australia's biggest international sporting event, the Motorcycle GP brings tens of thousands of visitors to Phillip Island every year. It's good for tourism, good for local businesses, and good for jobs."

• Read more about Government of Victoria, Australia, Rejects Plan To Move MotoGP From Phillip Island To Albert Park
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99ONE Launches the Rogue on Kickstarter

A Design-First Motorcycle Communication System Built to Be Seen

Kickstarter launch: March 2026

For years, motorcycle communication systems have looked largely the same - bulky, boxy, understated units designed around electronics, not riders.

The Rogue was designed to change that.

Launching on Kickstarter in March 2026, the Rogue is the first product from 99ONE - a new motorcycle technology brand created through a partnership between BEEBEST and Aleck, combining large-scale audio and communication engineering with deep experience building rider-focused brands for Western markets.

Built on proven audio and communication engineering, the Rogue reimagines helmet communication from the ground up - combining full-featured performance with a bold, unapologetic design language that looks nothing like the rest of the category.

Designed First - Not as an Afterthought

The Rogue was designed from the outside in.

Instead of conforming to the boxy, understated designs that dominate helmet communication today, the Rogue was shaped deliberately and unapologetically - with a clean, flowing silhouette, smooth rounded edges, and a profile designed to sit naturally against modern helmets.

Key design features include:

*A completely new modern form factor, breaking away from boxy, angular helmet comms

*Sleek, rounded lines and edges, reducing visual bulk and creating a refined profile

*Interchangeable wing tips, allowing riders to personalise the look and feel of the unit

*Dot-matrix LED display, delivering clear visual feedback without visual clutter

*Large, glove-friendly primary button, designed for confident use at speed

*Ability to use Siri and Google voice commands, for basic functions

*Transparent rear window, offering a considered glimpse into the internal mechanics

*Bold, brand-defining colourways that allow riders to express individuality rather than blend in

Every element is intentional. Nothing is decorative. Nothing is inherited.

This is communication technology designed to be worn - not hidden.

Two Launch Colourways - A Brand Statement

The Rogue will launch on Kickstarter with two distinctive colourways, combining core 99ONE brand colours with a bold, design-led visual identity.

The launch colourways include:

Shadow Black - understated, technical, and timeless

Jet White - clean, modern, and confident

These aren't afterthought finishes. Each colourway is an intentional extension of the product's design language - designed to give riders control over how the Rogue expresses itself on their helmet.

Stretch goal: Signal Orange - bold, expressive, and unapologetically visible

Signal Orange has been developed as a future-facing colourway and will be unlocked only if campaign demand and momentum support its introduction. This approach allows the brand to scale responsibly while ensuring new colourways are driven by real rider interest rather than speculative launches.

Beyond Kickstarter, additional colourways will be explored as the platform evolves, informed by rider feedback and distribution partner demand - bringing long-overdue expression and individuality to the motorcycle audio and communication category.

Features Riders Expect - Thoughtfully Refined

While the Rogue introduces a new design language, it delivers the full set of features riders expect from a modern helmet communication system - refined through better tuning, smarter integration, and more considered execution.

The Rogue includes:

*Rider-to-rider mesh communication for seamless group connectivity for up to 16 riders

*Music, podcasts, phone calls, and voice assistant access

*Premium audio quality, tuned for clarity and balance

*Clear, consistent audio at speed, supported by AI-powered noise cancellation

*Long battery life suitable for full-day rides, with up to 30 hours of music playback and 16 hours of continuous communication

*Simple, intuitive controls designed for real-world riding

*Over The Air (OTA) firmware updates

*Multiple helmet mounting options (3M adhesive or clip-on) with a quick-release design

*USB-C fast charging for modern convenience

*IP67-rated dust and water proof rating for all-weather durability

Rather than competing on feature count, the Rogue focuses on delivering a complete, modern feature set - refined into a system that feels balanced, intentional, and easy to live with every ride.

Built for Long Days on the Bike

The Rogue is powered by a custom 1250mAh high-capacity battery, engineered to deliver outstanding endurance in a compact form factor - without adding visual bulk to the helmet.

On a full charge, the Rogue delivers:

*Up to 30 hours of continuous music playback

*Up to 16 hours of continuous communication

*Fast charging support, delivering up to 7 hours of music playback from a 30-minute charge

The result is a system built to last through full-day rides, multi-day trips, and long weekends - without constant battery anxiety.

Roadmap

99ONE Rogue is built as a platform, not a one-off product. Designed to stand on its own from day one, the system will continue to expand through software updates, integrations, and optional accessories.

Walkie Talkie Integration - Long-Range Communication When You Want It

An upcoming integration with the Aleck Off Grid Bluetooth Walkie Talkie will enable long-range rider communication beyond the limits of traditional mesh systems.

Significantly extended range

No reliance on mobile networks

Ideal for touring, adventure riding, and remote routes

The feature will remain entirely optional, allowing Rogue to stay clean and streamlined while expanding into long-range communication only when riders choose.

Action Camera Integration

GoPro, DJI & Insta360

Future integrations with leading action camera platforms will allow riders to control key camera functions directly from their helmet.

The aim: fewer distractions, fewer buttons, and more focus on the ride - without missing the moments worth capturing.

"OK ONE" - A Custom Voice Assistant

"OK ONE" is a rider-focused voice assistant designed specifically for real riding scenarios.

Rather than generic commands, it will prioritise essential actions such as music, communication, and system controls - all with minimal cognitive load, even at speed.

Optional by design. Rider-first by default.

Continuous Firmware & Feature Improvements

99ONE Rogue is designed to evolve.

Ongoing firmware updates will continue to improve performance, introduce new features, and refine the overall experience - guided by real-world use and rider feedback. Backing 99ONE means investing in a platform built to grow over time.

The 99ONE App - Control Without Distraction

The Rogue is supported by the 99ONE companion app, designed to handle essential setup, configuration and updates.

Through the app, riders can:

*Manage device connections

*Adjust audio preferences

*Manage rider-to-rider mesh pairing

*Customise LED display

*Perform firmware updates

The goal is control without distraction - keeping the focus where it belongs: on the ride.

Why Kickstarter

The Rogue is not a concept or early prototype. It is built on years of development and large-scale manufacturing experience.

99ONE chose Kickstarter as a launch platform to do three things deliberately:

*Give riders early access to the product and brand before retail release

*Offer launch-only pricing and exclusive bundles as a reward for early support

*Introduce 99ONE directly to its first riders, building the brand alongside the people it's designed for

For riders, Kickstarter isn't about risk. It's about access - and being part of a new brand from the very beginning.

Pricing & Kickstarter Access

The Rogue will carry a future retail price of $299.95.

Ahead of the Kickstarter launch, riders can secure VIP access to the campaign with a $1 reservation, guaranteeing the opportunity to purchase the Rogue at the lowest Super Early Bird price, starting from $220 - a $80 saving compared to planned retail pricing.

VIP supporters will receive:

*First access to the Kickstarter campaign before it opens to the public

*Guaranteed eligibility for Super Early Bird pricing

*Priority access to limited launch quantities and exclusive bundles

*Access to a private VIP group, where early supporters can provide feedback, take part in polls, and help shape the campaign and brand journey before, during, and after launch

*For riders who want to be part of 99ONE from the very beginning, VIP access offers the earliest entry point - and the best value.

Riders can register now for VIP access and early notification ahead of the Kickstarter launch at reservations.99.one

Limited Super Early Bird units will be available when the campaign launches on Kickstarter in March 2026.

From the Teams Behind the 99ONE Rogue

"The Rogue gave us the opportunity to rethink how motorcycle communication is presented," said Mr Shao, Founder and CEO of BEEBEST. The technology itself is mature and well proven - this was about shaping it into a product that feels new, refined, intentional, and worthy of the rider experience."

"The Rogue represents how we believe motorcycle technology should move forward," said Stephen Catterson, Founder and CEO of Aleck. "Kickstarter lets us introduce 99ONE directly to riders who care about performance, design, and individuality - and build the brand alongside the community from day one."

"Our focus is on building a brand riders actively choose and grow with," said Scott Goldhawk, Chief Brand and Growth Officer at Aleck. "Not just for what the Rogue delivers today, but for the identity, values, and direction the brand represents as the category moves forward."

Launch Details

The Rogue launches on Kickstarter in March 2026, marking the first public release of the 99ONE brand.

Early supporters will have access to Super Early Bird pricing, limited launch bundles, and the full range of launch colourways.

For riders looking for a motorcycle communication system that reflects how modern gear should look, feel, and perform, the Rogue offers the chance to be part of something from the very beginning.

Riders can register now for VIP access and early notification ahead of the Kickstarter launch at reservations.99.one

About 99ONE

99ONE is a new global motorcycle technology brand created through a collaboration between BEEBEST and Aleck - combining long-standing audio and communication engineering expertise with deep experience building premium, rider-focused brands for global markets.

Purpose-built from the ground up, 99ONE delivers modern motorcycle communication technology through a bold, unapologetic, design-first lens.

The post New Rogue Motorcycle Comm System Designed To Be Seen appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of George Barber.

He built more than an organization—he built a community.

We are grateful for his vision and leadership, and we will share additional information in the days ahead.

The post R.I.P.: Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Founder George Barber appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

How exactly does the best breaking news journalist in the MotoGP paddock handle something like learning that Fabio Quartararo is ready to sign a deal with Honda? Motorsport.com's Oriol Puigdemont joins Neil, Adam and David to talk scoops, insider deals, and digging up what's happening in MotoGP. While he was with us, we also ask what surprises he sees in the MotoGP silly season, whether we can expect any surprises in the title chase, what we all think might pleasantly surprise us, and what we expect will be the biggest disappointments of 2026.

Join our merry band of supporters by signing up to the Paddock Pass Podcast Patreon to get access to our Discord server and a host of exclusive content. Show you are listening to the world's smartest racing podcast by getting your t-shirts, caps, hoodies and more from our merch store. Enjoy the show!

• Read more about Paddock Pass Podcast Episode 538: Who Can Stop Marc Marquez, With King Of Scoops, Uri Puigdemont
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DAZN Portugal will be the home of WorldSBK in 2026, with Portuguese fans able to follow Miguel Oliveira's new journey

Bimota's high-profile return to WorldSBK in 2025 proved far more than a symbolic comeback. When the project was announced, expectations were unclear. A Bimota chassis powered by a Kawasaki engine inevitably prompted questions: would it simply be a rebadged ZX-10RR?

Winter testing quickly answered that. This was an all-new machine and, for the Provec Racing squad, an ambitious project.

By season's end, it was a successful first chapter. Alex Lowes led the effort superbly, claiming four podium finishes on his way to sixth in the riders' standings. It might have been even better: the Brit crashed out of the lead at his home round and missed two races through injury.

As the year progressed, Lowes' confidence visibly grew. After five seasons aboard the Kawasaki, adapting to a new package required time, but once comfortable he began extracting increasingly strong performances as development momentum built through the summer. He relished the role of team leader.

• Read more about Steve English' 2026 WorldSBK Preview - Bimota look to build on promising return to WorldSBK
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Ducati have dominated the second and final day of the WorldSBK test at Phillip Island. Once again, it is factory Aruba.it Ducati rider Nicolo Bulega with a big advantage, faster than MarcVDS Ducati's Sam Lowes by two thirds of a second, consolidating his position as favorite for the title. Lorenzo Baldassarri is third fastest on the GoEleven Ducati, while Yari Montella made it four Ducatis in the top four on the Barni machine.

• Read more about 2026 WorldSBK Phillip Island Test Day 2 Results: Bulega Leads Ducati Whitewash
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Jaume Masia ends the final World Supersport test as fastest, though the WorldSSP field is very close. Masia was just three hundredths of a second faster than Oli Bayliss on the Triumph 765, with Tom Booth-Amos moving up into third. Drops of rain disrupted the first part of the afternoon session, though it never persisted and the track remained mostly dry.

• Read more about 2026 WorldSSP Phillip Island Test Day 2 Results: Masia And Bayliss Lead Booth-Amos
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Booth-Amos and Mahias land back up near the front to conclude the final test day of the 2026 preseason

The Italian rider was third-fastest on Day 2 of the Australia Test as he showcased his potential 'Down Under'

The #55 is usually strong at Phillip Island but his testing times left him down the timesheets on both Monday and Tuesday

The #11 has been unbeatable in Australia throughout the Official Test as he secured top spot for the second day running

Again in P2, Philipp Oettl is shaping up to be a name to watch in the 2026 title fight.

The #47 has a new crew chief for 2026 and the pair seem to be working well together despite limited testing in January

The #11 remains the rider to beat in Australia as he became the first rider during the Official Test to lap in the 1'28s

The rookie #96 has seen the curtain drawn early on his Australian round

MP13 Doubles Up For Daytona 200 & Supersport Season With Ella & Avery Dreher On MV Agustas Supported By One Cure

MP13 Racing's Ella Dreher will be joined by her brother Avery as they both compete in the 2026 Supersport Championship, beginning with next month's Daytona 200. Photo courtesy MP13 Racing.

Here's proof that, when you've got one very talented rider named Dreher on your team, you've just gotta have two.

Team owner Melissa Paris is delighted to introduce MP13 Racing's 2026 MotoAmerica team, featuring incumbent rider Ella Dreher and her brother Avery. Both riders will compete in the 2026 Supersport Championship, including next month's Daytona 200.

Also, Paris and MP13 Racing are proud to represent One Cure through the generous support of David and Maxine Pierce. One Cure's mission is "to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer in pets, and to translate their research and knowledge to also benefit people with cancer."

"Working with Ella in 2025 was the realization of a dream that was several years in the making," Paris said. "I was impressed by her work and tenacity every single weekend. To be able to have Ella back, and to have her brother Avery also join the team for the 2026 Supersport Championship, is unreal. I'm so grateful for their trust in me and our team, and together, we are looking forward to seeing what we can achieve with our MV Agusta F3 800 machines."

Last year, Ella competed for MP13 Racing in the inaugural MotoAmerica Talent Cup Championship, and she is set to take the next step in her road racing career. Currently 15 years old, Ella will turn 16 at the end of February, which will make her eligible for MotoAmerica's Supersport Championship. As a result, the Florida native is poised to become the youngest rider ever to race in the Daytona 200, in this, the 84th running of the "Great American Motorcycle Race."

"I'm more than excited to be racing again this year with the MP13 team, Ella said. "Better yet on a Supersport bike alongside my brother as my teammate this year. I can't wait to start the season at the Daytona 200. Racing the 200 has been a dream of mine, and I'm ready to push through the challenges and start the 2026 season."

Avery, who is 19 years old and raced in last year's Twins Cup Championship, will also move up to Supersport as he teams up with his sister on MP13 Racing MV Agustas.

"I am so thankful and stoked for this opportunity," commented Avery. "Huge thanks to Melissa and the entire MP13 Racing team for believing in me. This truly feels like a dream come true. Racing in the Daytona 200 and the Supersport Championship has been a goal of mine for a long time, and I'm ready to embrace the challenge and get to work. I'm also stoked to be teammates with my sister again. It's going to be a fun time and a great year!"

Additional team sponsors for 2026 include Rock Solid and MV Agusta Los Angeles, along with Maxima, Spider, STM, GHD, Accossato, LighTech, Essex Moto, Speedcell, Akrapovic, SBS, Mikanik Moto, Matt Racing, ESP, and Macklin Motorsports.

The post MotoAmerica: Ella & Avery Dreher Racing MVs At Daytona appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

The WorldSBK field was put through their paces in near perfect conditions on the opening day of testing at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Under blue skies and with a light breeze cooling the temperatures slightly the four hours of running for Superbike and Supersport classes offered a stark contrast to the winter testing undertaken in Europe.

• Pre-season title favourite Nicolo Bulega dominated the opening day of testing, leading both sessions for the Aruba.It Racing - Ducati squad. The Italian completed 72 laps. His pace was impressive with over 30 laps under 1m30s. The 90 second barrier was broken by only three other riders with Axel Bassani the closest challenger. The bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team rider ended the day just 0.291s adrift.

• It was an action-packed day for Sam Lowes. The ELF Marc VDS Racing Team rider suffered a technical issue in the morning before crashing in the afternoon. The Brit responded strongly, setting his fastest time late in the day during a six-lap stint.

• After limited dry running over the winter, Xavi Vierge impressed as the fastest Yamaha rider, placing the Pata Maxus Yamaha ninth overall. A morning crash failed to derail Stefano Manzi, the reigning Supersport World Champion, who was just two tenths of a second slower than Vierge as he continues to adapt to the GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team machine.

• Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) led the rookie contingent. The former Moto2 rider finished tenth at the close of play, ahead of Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Manzi.

• There were eight crashes during Superbike running, including an early-afternoon fall for Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) at Turn 5. The double world champion, an eight-time winner at Phillip Island, ended the day eighth fastest, almost a second shy of Bulega's benchmark, but will expect to make gains heading into the next session.

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing - Ducati): "It was important to start like this. We have a new bike and during the winter we weren't able to test properly because of the weather. This meant that today was really our first proper day on track. It was important to ride as much as possible and I completed a lot of laps, so I'm happy. We did a good job and we've started the weekend well. Last year the winter testing conditions were better and we arrived in Phillip Island with two or three full test days already completed. This time we're not starting from zero but we have a new bike to understand. It was very hot today so that means we're a few tenths slower than we expected. I'm quite happy with the setup but we can improve in some areas. Tomorrow we'll try to take another step forward and see if we can be competitive for the race weekend."

Masia leads the way in Supersport

• Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) completed 50 laps across both sessions and topped the times in both the morning and afternoon. The two-time race winner in 2025 looked comfortable throughout, completing short stints typically consisting of five laps.

• Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) performed well at his home round. The Australian ended the day second fastest, 0.344s slower than Masia, while Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) was third fastest after completing 64 laps on his Ducati.
• Josh Whatley (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) and Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) were the only riders in the top ten to set their fastest times of the day in the afternoon session. The track temperature rose by 15°C, so their improvement was noteworthy, with Whatley ending the day eighth fastest.

• Double WorldSSP champion Dominique Aegerter returns to the class this year. The Kawasaki WorldSSP Team rider completed 59 laps and set his fastest time on his penultimate lap as he continues to gain experience on the Kawasaki ZX-6R 636.

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Garrett Gerloff and his Kawasaki WorldSBK Team, plus Jeremy Alcoba and Dominique Aegerter from the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team, will soon take part in a final official pre-season test at the 4.445km-long Phillip Island. Shortly before, they unveiled the full 2026 colours and sponsorship packages of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and Ninja ZX-6R 636.

After finding some challenging wet weather conditions in recent winter tests in Europe, the entire Kawasaki WorldSBK and WorldSSP team set-up is now looking forward to two days of dry and settled climatic conditions on which they will take to the track on 16 and 17 February.

Before the testing action took place, the team revealed its WorldSBK and WorldSSP liveries, which feature Kawasaki's green colour scheme extensively, but also an additional touch of blue this time around.

The 2026 sponsor and partner line-up had their logos on prominent display on the latest machines, with a refreshed team and ambitions for a new campaign.

Gerloff enters the 2026 season reunited with a former crew chief, Les Pearson, while Aegerter is a new rider to the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team set-up alongside 2025 rider Alcoba. Dominique is no rookie, however, as he re-enters WorldSSP racing as a double WorldSSP champion from recent years gone by.

After the two days test, the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship season begins for real at Phillip Island in Australia, between 20-22 February.

Garrett Gerloff stated: "We've travelled a long way to reach Phillip Island, but we can finally enjoy some solid testing time here. I'm confident in my team and in the new Ninja ZX-10RR. That's why I think we can see good results in the official test and, more importantly, in the first round, even though we weren't able to complete the work programme we'd laid out for the winter tests. A lot of time has passed since my last race, and I can't wait to line up on the grid in Australia."

 
Jeremy Alcoba, stated: "I'm really excited and can't wait for the championship to start. I've trained very hard over the winter and even though we've barely tested on a dry track, the bike feels like mine. I have a great feeling with both my Ninja ZX-6R 636 and my team. We're a very close-knit squad and this is key. I'm keen to get to Phillip Island and start testing, finally making the most of a dry track and pushing to the max with my bike."

 
Dominique Aegerter, stated: "It's a long way to Australia but it's worth it because the track is amazing and the place itself is beautiful. I can't wait to see my team again and work with my technicians. Because of the bad weather during winter testing I don't yet have a setup to suit my riding style with which to start the tests, and I still need to adapt to riding a Supersport bike again. But the motivation is high and I'm totally ready, both mentally and physically. I can't wait to get testing so that we're all set for the first WorldSSP round."

 
Manuel Puccetti, Team Principal, stated: "We can't wait to start working and test on a dry track at last. This test will be important in helping us to make the best possible start to the season. The whole team is highly motivated, and we have a lot of work to get through, with many technical updates for both Superbike and Supersport machines. The aim is to complete the full programme to be ready for the first race weekend, which will start just a few days later."

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By Adam Wheeler. Photos by HRC/Shotbybavo

In 2019, shortly before society would be ravaged by the fallout of the pandemic and long before KTM Sport Motorcycles lunged into a financial crisis, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team entered the MXGP series with the might of Tony Cairoli, defending champion (but absent through injury) Jeffrey Herlings and reigning MX2 #1 Jorge Prado. 14 titles and some of the most impactful dirtbike racers of their generation. And also…Tom Vialle.

The 18-year-old earned his slot on the most decorated Grand Prix squad this century through a late winter 'try-out', overseen by then-Motocross Director Joel Smets. The Belgian felt that this son-of-a-former-racer had the technique and the character to make the step from an inexperienced and middling European Championship runner to a potential MX2 star. It was a brilliant call. Vialle scored a top-three moto result and his first podium finish in only his second Grand Prix with the orange 250 SX-F, after classifying a respectable 7th overall in Argentina - the furthest afield the teenager had ever raced from his base in southern France.

For the rest of 2019 the rookie blended quiet determination and maturity with his natural balance and ability to rank 4th in the world; it was the best performance by a debutant in the class and since the formation of 'MX2' in 2004 (Ken Roczen was 5th in 2009 but had missed the first four rounds until he reached his 15th birthday). Vialle had the runaway stats of Prado as a target, but also as a crutch to remove any elevated pressure or expectation. His union with Smets as a trainer and advisor also brought considerable benefits and the pair would collaborate further for two world titles in 2020 and 2022. Smets would continue to lend counsel as Vialle then scooped two AMA 250SX East titles in the U.S. Four crowns in seven seasons is impressive.

During his four-year blast of MX2, Tom baffled us with his surge of learning. He was a lightning starter on that KTM, and his skinny and diminutive frame helped in this aspect. Sacha Coenen is following the same template. Unlike Coenen (so far), Vialle showed racecraft and race-smarts. He won from the front but also with urgency and ruthlessness when required. He endured and prevailed in two tense neck-and-neck title disputes with Yamaha's Jago Geerts, and continually gave the impression of a young athlete in progression. Even his English language skills and media awareness soared at a rapid rate.

For a racer that moved quickly and achieved quickly, it was ironic that Tom' first career success came in Sweden with a 'solid' 2-2 scorecard. But the attitude and capacity to assess and capitalise would unpin a lot of what he would attain in the United States, where he was often not the fastest but proved to be the wiliest against far more experienced competition, and while throttling up the side of a steep learning curve.

The seven-year association with KTM ended (and supercross 'itch' was scratched) with the lure of factory HRC support for a crack at MXGP for 2026. Before Honda knew they had a chance of acquiring Herlings last summer, the bet on Vialle was hardly a risk and represented something of a coup. His formation in MX2 and his progress stateside provided plenty of evidence that the-now 25-year-old had the intelligence to wade through his third major career adaptation. On paper there are few more 'solid bets' for MXGP transition than Tom Vialle.

True, he can no longer have KTM Team Manager Smets on speed-dial, but he always had his family in back-up mode (they even emigrated with him to the U.S.) and he won't lack resources with Giacomo Gariboldi's Honda set-up. To-date he has had a Jeremy Seewer-esque talent for avoiding major injury setbacks.

As we know, Vialle made his first laps as a Honda rider at the 2025 Paris SX. He then classified 2nd overall to Yamaha-shod Tim Gajser at last week's Internazionali d'Italia at a cold and rainy Mantova, four positions ahead of an underwhelming (but with nine more years of KTM institution to shed) Herlings.

Tom and Jeffrey know each other well having shared an awning for four years and there will be little mutual underestimation. To everyone else, Herlings, 32 in September, is undoubtedly the one with headline billing for 2026 and has been signed to win, rather than develop. Again, this gives Vialle a little wiggle room to make mistakes and to glean HRC's culture, as well as evolve in terms of being a factory employee expected to deliver a modicum of technical feedback for product R&D. If you think this is a moot point then consider the plight of second teammate Ruben Fernandez in 2025, who had to compete in the latter half of the season with the new CRF prototype ("it was still a little bit early for the bike to jump on [in] GPs maybe…but, in the end, it was a lot of good information," the Spaniard admitted.)

Last week HRC fabricated an offline press conference 'event' with journalists invited to submit questions. Tom's reposts were largely lip service, with the usual cliches and platitudes about education, step-by-step and acknowledgements of the difficulty of the class. (Don't forget his 2026 MXGP rookie peers will be former MX2 foes in the shape of Andrea Adamo and Kay de Wolf, two title winners in his absence). His ambition has been emboldened perhaps by the fact that his CV already carries major distinction: no other Grand Prix rider has bagged two MX2/250 world titles and two supercross titles (Marvin Musquin managed three as did Christophe Pourcel so did Roczen). "The goal is to be obviously - in the next year - try to be as successful as I did in the 250 class, so yeah I'm trying to work as hard as I can to get there," he said as part of the HRC transcript, and with understandable conviction.

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Tom's status is not without some anticipation, and that is driven by the past exploits of his predecessor Tim Gajser, Romain Febvre, Herlings and Lucas Coenen: all of whom either bagged the premier class championship or ranked runner-up at their first attempts.

Context counts though. Fans should expect some inconsistency and weirdness as an icon like Herlings wades through his transition and Vialle is in the same predicament. He also must readjust to the demands of Grand Prix, which will be far easier for him compared to anybody else from the trenches of SMX but might still need some acclimatisation, as he confessed: "We all know the tracks in the US and in Europe are a little bit different," he said. "The good thing is I know the tracks…but I have to get a little bit back in the rhythm, and get to know again the type of tracks. It's a long weekend in MXGP, we have two days of racing so [it's] a couple things that I have to adapt again."

Herlings is an MXGP monster and HRC have signed attention and profile as much as an athlete born to chase victory, but it is Jeffrey who is the rookie when it comes to significant change. It's quite possible that the lead Honda - at some point this season - could be the #16 compared to the #84. Another stat to support? After his 2019 debut campaign, Vialle won a GP within the first three fixtures each year until, he disembarked to the U.S.

Slow starts and stasis is not his thing.

There are a lot of changes at Yamaha this year. Rider changes and crew chief changes take the headlines, but will there be a change of fortunes in 2026? That's a lot harder to forecast because while the YZF-R1 is a very capable machine, it is also a very traditional Superbike when compared to some of the other animals on the grid.

Motorcycle racing in general, and WorldSBK in particular, is predatory. Everyone is out for themselves and out to maximise their advantages. In production racing that means starting with the most advanced bike possible. Yamaha has taken a different tact and made a road bike that's capable of being a competitive racing machine. Other manufacturers have taken a different approach and it has allowed their base packages to be more competitive.

This difference is one of the reasons that making Superbike racing more akin to Superstock regulations has always been difficult to envision. If you make everything as standard as possible, as close to the road bike as possible, you also accentuate the differences and deficiencies of one machine versus another.

• Read more about Steve English' 2026 WorldSBK Preview - Yamaha: Follow the leader, or who's the leader?
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Do not forget about our Annual Awards Banquet next Saturday February 21st, held together with ASRA Racing!

The post ASRA/NJMiniGP Banquet Set for February 21 appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Manu Gonzalez has his Moto2 challenge back on track at the final test of the 2026 preseason. After a washed out test at Portimão, the Moto2 class got a full day of running at the Jerez circuit.

• Read more about 2026 Jerez Moto2 Test Day 1 Times: Gonzalez Leads Alonso After First Day
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Dorna Sports, S.L., the company which has run grand prix motorcycle racing since 1992, has been renamed. From now on, the company will be known as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, though much of the current organizational structure will remain intact.

Renaming the company is a commercial decision, and one aimed at giving the company a more global appeal. In a commercial environment, the name Dorna Sports always needed an explainer as to what they did. MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group does exactly what it says on the tin.

According to the press release issued on the name change, this is the next step in the rebranding process started back in 2024. That was before the takeover by Liberty Media, and part of a growing awareness that the growth of MotoGP had plateaued, was stuck at its current level and needed to find a new impulse to grow. Liberty has since picked up that objective and is pushing it forward.

• Read more about End Of An Era: Dorna Renamed MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group
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- Dorna Sports, S.L. will be officially renamed MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, introducing a refreshed identity aligned with the future direction of the sport.

- The new name signals the organisation's global ambition, expanding MotoGP's position as a world leading sports entertainment platform built on world innovation. 

Dorna Sports, S.L. today announced that the company will officially be known as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, reflecting the ongoing evolution and continuous growth of the organisation, which has served as the exclusive commercial and broadcast rights holder of MotoGP since 1992. 

The new company name represents a clear vision for the future of MotoGP and reflects the evolution of the sport from a premier racing championship into a global sports entertainment platform with worldwide cultural impact and resonance.

The renaming follows the brand refresh in 2024 and captures the organisation's ambition to expand beyond traditional motorsport boundaries embracing digital innovation, immersive fan engagement, global storytelling, and new forms of entertainment that complement the on track spectacle. 

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group: "The company name change is much more than a new identity - it is a statement of intent. MotoGP has grown far beyond just a championship; it has become a global entertainment property followed passionately around the world.

"As MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, we are building on years of continuous growth to accelerate innovation and global expansion, while always preserving the spirit and values that define our sport."

The transition aligns with long term strategic initiatives designed to strengthen MotoGP's reach across continents, broaden its appeal to younger and more diverse audiences, and elevate the fan experience on-and-off the track. 

The group will continue to lead the commercial, sporting, and fan engagement development of MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, the Road to MotoGP programmes, the World Superbike Championship, and the newly created Harley Davidson Bagger World Cup - strengthening its role across every level of elite motorcycle sport.

The post Dorna Sports Becomes MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.