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New Book | Fabio Taglioni, Designer of Ducati Legends, Alan Cathcart

December 18, 2024

Alan Cathcart’s latest book, Fabio Taglioni – Designer of Ducati Legends, is available exclusively through amazon.com for $54.40 AUD delivered, just in time for Christmas if you are quick!

For 30 years Fabio Taglioni was the Technical Director of Ducati, its Direttore Tecnico, and was responsible for all manner of engine designs ranging from single-cylinder lightweights to a massive V-four and especially the bevel drive 90-degree V-twins…

Smart was bolstered up as the poster rider for Ducati. — Paul Smart with Fabio Taglioni, 1972 Imola 200.

For the whole of his career, Taglioni held the racetrack to be the finest proving ground available for the development of successive families of Ducati models, as well as the demonstration of their worth. His bevel-drive V-twin models of the 1970s are proof positive of that reasoning. They were the mainstay of the Ducati range for the whole of that decade, and scored many memorable race successes, such as Paul Smart’s and Bruno Spaggiari’s dominant 1-2 victory in the prestigious 1972 Imola 200, and the now legendary Isle of Man TT comeback victory by the late, great Mike Hailwood in 1978. Personal recollections of their Ducati successes by both Hailwood and Smart provide chapters of this wide-ranging book.

Alan Cathcart has been and still is the owner and racer of several of those classic Desmo V-twins. He is also the author of several best-selling books on Ducati motorcycles, including the first-ever history of the marque in the English language, published in 1983. As such he became a personal friend and confidant of Ing. Taglioni over many years, so no-one is better qualified to pen the history of the greatest name in motorcycle design.

"Out on the Brands short circuit, it was a trip down memory lane, and I immediately appreciated the fine engineering that Ducati’s late design guru, Fabio Taglioni, invested in producing this motorcycle engine." — “Out on the Brands short circuit, it was a trip down memory lane, and I immediately appreciated the fine engineering that Ducati’s late design guru, Fabio Taglioni, invested in producing this motorcycle engine.”

Fabio Taglioni – Designer of Ducati Legends is a 232-page book with 200+ photographs, most of which are in full colour. They range from historic factory archive material to modern digital photography commissioned especially for this title.

Ducati’s history and Taglioni’s personal story are covered in-depth along with detailed information on his most famous machines. The story starts in immediate post-WW2 Italy, and the company’s entry into the motorcycle market with an engine designed to clip on to a bicycle, and provide transportation for the public in a country with an economy struggling to recover from its wartime devastation.

Two-valve cylinder head design with bevel-driven single overhead camshaft. — Two-valve cylinder-head design with bevel-driven single overhead camshaft.

From there it moved into proper motorcycles and by the mid-1950s was just one of many manufacturers of lightweight machines. Then along came Fabio Taglioni. In May 1954, he joined the company and within a year transformed its fortunes with his ground-breaking ‘Marianna’ Gran Sport 100 design. Its little 98cc single-cylinder engine was technically far ahead of its rivals, featuring overhead-camshaft valve operation driven from the crankshaft by a shaft and bevel gears. This was a configuration seen mainly on 350cc and 500cc racing machines of that era, and was previously unheard of in such a small engine as the Gran Sport 100. It immediately struck a chord with the racing-mad Italian public and, when it and its Gran Sport 125 bigger brother began winning long distance road races, and even excelled in Grand Prix competition via desmo derivatives, sales success soon followed.

Taglioni’s genius had set Ducati on the path to the pre-eminence that Ducati enjoys in the world of Italian motorcycle production today, for these little GS ultra-lightweights were only the first steps on the journey. Their basic design parameters went on to be used in future successful single-cylinder motorcycles ranging from 250 to 450cc and even in the famous V-twins of the 1970s.

In the early 1980s, some 25 years after his first single-cylinder machines and a full decade after the initial appearance of his 90-degree V-twins, Taglioni updated and future-proofed the V-twins by changing the overhead-camshaft valve operation to a belt-driven system. First seen on the Pantah models, this took Ducati into the 21st century, and that basic architecture is still used on today’s twins.

All of Taglioni’s seminal designs are featured in-depth in this book: single-cylinder, parallel twins, V-twins and even a pair of experimental four-cylinder prototypes – the giant Apollo V-four of 1964, and the Bi-Pantah, his final such design which never made it into production.

Alan Cathcart was fortunate to enjoy unparalleled access to the Ducati factory, and to Ing. Fabio Taglioni on a personal basis, during the last decade of his tenure as Ducati Meccanica’s Direttore Tecnico. That is what makes this book so special.

Fabio Taglioni – Designer of Ducati Legends is available worldwide exclusively from Amazon priced at $54.40 AUD including delivery. An e-book version is also available costing £8.95 in the UK, and the appropriate local currency equivalent elsewhere.

Click here to order your copy from amazon.com.au

Model Update | 2025 Ducati Streetfighter V4, 189kg, 214hp naked!

PitBoard

December 17, 2024

Ducati say the new Streetfighter V4 is the most beautiful, fastest and sophisticated Ducati superbike, stripped of its fairings, with a high and wide ‘bar, a weight of 189kg, a 214hp engine, biplane wings and an electronics package that is unique in the world. Press: Ducati

The derivation from the Panigale V4 is now more direct than ever: the engine is in the same configuration – the difference of two horsepower is due to differences in the intake – and so are the chassis and electronics. For the first time, Ducati has chosen to transfer the technology and performance of the Panigale V4 to a nakedbike without sparing anything, creating a bike that combines the best of both worlds. Track handling like a supersport bike, and road enjoyment like a true naked.

Read our BR Ducati Streetfighter reviews and articles here…

Its impressive power/weight ratio of 1.13hp/Kg, obtained from a lighter and more powerful engine (+6 hp), Euro5+ homologated, combined with electronic and chassis developments such as DVO, Öhlins Smart EC3.0 suspension and the new Race eCBS braking system, make the Streetfighter V4 even more effective on the track.

At the same time, it is capable of guaranteeing great fun on the road with superior comfort in everyday riding. This is thanks to the wider calibration range guaranteed by the suspensions to a more rigorous chassis that gives the rider greater feeling and ease of riding and to a more contained exhaust noise but at the same time capable of giving great character to the bike.

Desmosedici Stradale engine

The Streetfighter V4 engine derives from that of the Panigale V4, with an even more direct link than the previous model. The Desmosedici Stradale is closely derived from that of the Ducati MotoGP bikes, with which it shares numerous technical solutions, starting with the architecture. It is a 90° V4 with desmodromic distribution, counter-rotating crankshaft and Twin Pulse timing, which gives the Streetfighter V4 a sound very similar to that of the Desmosedici GP.

The Desmosedici Stradale of the new Streetfighter V4 has had its distribution diagram revised compared to the version of the previous model, with cams with a different profile and a higher lift value. The alternator and oil pump are the same as those mounted on the Panigale V4 R, while the gear drum is the one used on the Superleggera V4. And for the first time, the Streetfighter V4 also features variable-length intake trumpets, with a value of 25mm in the short configuration and 80mm in the long one, thus simultaneously increasing maximum power and rideability.

Adopting the Ducati Performance by Akrapovic racing exhaust, the maximum power increases to 226hp…

The Desmosedici Stradale engine, Euro5+ homologated, delivers 214hp at 13,500rpm and a maximum torque of 12.2Kgm at 11,250rpm. Values that can be higher in track configuration: by adopting the Ducati Performance by Akrapovič racing exhaust, the maximum power increases to 226hp. The Streetfighter V4 has never been so powerful.

Design

A completely new full-LED headlight enhances the aggressive face of the new Streetfighter, maintaining its iconic light signature. At the rear, the full-LED light cluster is functionally divided into two parts, generating that double C that characterizes the sportiest Ducatis.

The 16-litre tank, particularly narrow in fit and characterised by a very distinct shoulder, is reflected in the greater presence of the tail, more elongated towards the rear, with a shorter license plate holder and the passenger seat positioned lower than the 2024 Streetfighter V4. Both components have been designed to combine style and functionality, improving ergonomics in sportbike riding.

Finally, the forward-slanting biplane wings, a distinctive element of the Streetfighter V4 since its first version, could not be missing. Compared to the previous model, they are more effective (+17kg of downforce at 270km/h) and integrated into the line in a more refined and sophisticated way. The wings allow for a bike with very nimble chassis qualities but at the same time stable and rigorous at high speeds. Finally, the exhaust placed under the engine maintains the stylistic imprint of Ducati sportbikes, keeping the centre of gravity low and leaving a clear view of the new double-sided Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm, also visually lightened by the large exhaust openings on both sides.

Ergonomics

The riding position of the new Streetfighter V4 is derived from that of the Panigale V4, but has been defined with the dual objective of improving control of the vehicle and increasing comfort, especially for taller riders. The seat-tank unit, thanks to greater roominess, offers more freedom of longitudinal movement and makes it more natural to reach and maintain the aerodynamic posture. A deep recess in the upper part avoids interference with the helmet chin guard.

At the same time, the rear area of the tank, combined with the side covers and the shape of the saddle, better supports the rider during braking, corner entry and cornering. The rider finds it easier to anchor himself with his knees to counteract deceleration and leaning out of the saddle once the bike is in a curve, thus reducing the effort on the arms and therefore fatigue.

Compared to the previous Streetfighter V4, the bend of the handlebar has been moved back, now closer to the rider by 10 mm, and the footpegs are lower and more forward, and positioned 10 mm further inward. This increases comfort for the rider without compromising ground clearance. Finally, the two conveyors located inside the side panels move hot air away from the rider’s legs.

MotoGP-derived chassis

The Streetfighter V4 has never been so close to the Panigale V4. Thanks to the very rigorous chassis of the new superbike from Borgo Panigale, on this model it was not necessary to lengthen the swingarm to give stability to the bike, but it was only sufficient to work on the front chassis dimensions (+0.5° steering angle, +1mm on the trail) to find the synthesis between agility and stability.

Deriving directly from the new Panigale, the chassis of the Streetfighter V4 is completely new. The Front Frame is therefore lighter (3.47kg in weight compared to the previous 4.42) and remodulated in stiffness compared to the previous model (-39% in lateral) to offer greater confidence when leaning and greater effectiveness in taking the apex and maintaining the trajectory.

Furthermore, the double-sided Ducati Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm improves traction when exiting corners and the rider’s feeling in acceleration, with a reduction in lateral stiffness (-43% compared to the single-sided swingarm of the previous model) and an overall lightening of the swingarm-forged rear wheel assembly equal to 2.9kg. On the Streetfighter V4 S, the forged aluminium alloy wheels with five tangential spokes, inspired by those of the DesmosediciGP, weigh only 2.95 and 4.15kg, respectively for the front and rear.

The third-generation electronically controlled Öhlins NIX/TTX suspension of the Streetfighter V4 S expands its adjustment spectrum, allowing the use of more comfortable calibrations for road use and more sustained and effective when riding between the kerbs of a circuit. At the same time, the increased speed of the hydraulic valves offers a more precise and accurate response in every riding situation. Furthermore, compared to the Panigale V4, the rear suspension link has been revised in progressivity to offer greater comfort on the road, which is further increased thanks to the “Cruise Detection” strategy. The latter softens the suspension when it detects a constant pace, such as on motorway transfers, significantly increasing rider comfort.

Like the new Ducati Panigale V4, the Streetfighter V4 also mounts Brembo Hypure™ front brake calipers. Lighter (-60 grams per pair compared to the Stylema of the previous model) and higher-performance, the Brembo Hypure™ calipers disperse the heat generated by braking more effectively, offering more consistent performance and greater effectiveness for riders in seeking out their limits.

The Race eCBS system with Cornering functionality, developed by Ducati in collaboration with Bosch, is able to activate and modulate the rear brake, limiting load transfers and improving the stability of the bike in the braking phase both in road and track use, even when the rider only applies the front brake. The system, which offers five levels against the three of the previous Streetfighter model, intervenes in a similar way to what is done by professional riders at the lowest levels, reserved for track use, while improving safety and stability at the higher levels, designed for road use.

Ducati Vehicle Observer

The Ducati Vehicle Observer, an algorithm developed by Ducati Corse in MotoGP, simulates the input of over 70 sensors, thus refining the electronic control strategies, which can achieve unprecedented effectiveness in series production. The precision of this functionality allows the controls to intervene in an almost predictive way to promptly accommodate the needs of the rider in the search for maximum performance.

The 2025 Streetfighter V4 is in fact equipped with a complete package of electronic controls: Ducati Traction Control DVO, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control DVO, Ducati Power Launch DVO, Engine Brake Control and Ducati Quick Shift 2.0. The DQS 2.0 system uses a strategy based solely on the gear drum angular position sensor, thus being able to use a gearshift rod without microswitches and therefore offering the rider a more direct feeling with reduced travel.

New 8:3 dashboard

The new 6.9” dashboard with 8:3 “aspect ratio” offers maximum readability and is perfectly integrated into the line of the new Streetfighter. The protective glass uses Optical Bonding technology, to guarantee optimal readability on a black background even during the day. The interface offers differentiated views (Infomode) for use on the road or on the track, combining completeness and readability of the information in the first case, or instead supporting the rider in the search for maximum performance in the second.

The dashboard dynamically changes its layout, moving the columns and redistributing the spaces, to offer maximum visibility to the functions that are being used at the moment, such as the navigator. Similarly, by selecting the Views mode, the left column gains space by moving the rev counter to the right and compressing the right column, to display the different functions available, including the TPMS, instantaneous torque and power delivered, lateral and longitudinal acceleration values, instantaneous lean angles and action on the throttle and brake.

The Road Infomode has very clean graphics, with great emphasis on the circular rev counter, placed in the centre and with the indication of the engaged gear inside. The left side of the screen is reserved for the settings, the navigator, if installed, the music player, the management of the smartphone and accessory heated grips, and the different functions available for each of these features. On the right side are the indications of speed, time, water temperature and cruise control, if enabled.

The Track mode, combined by default with the Race Riding Mode, is designed to give maximum emphasis to the most relevant information in circuit riding. The rev counter is positioned at the top of the screen, with a scale compressed up to 9,000 rpm, while in the centre the rider finds the indication of the gear engaged, and on the right the levels set for the electronic controls (modifiable via the right rocker) and their activation. In the left column we find the stopwatch, which by mounting the DDL accessory or via the GPS module is able to show lap time with different split times, lap number and the indication of the improvement in absolute terms or in reference to the session using the same colour codes – white, grey, orange, red – used in MotoGP.

Both models arrive Down Under in April
Streetfighter V4 AU Ride Away: $38,400
Streetfighter V4 S AU Ride Away: $43,100
Streetfighter V4 NZ Ride Away: $41,693
Streetfighter V4 S NZ Ride Away: $46,893

Oli Bayliss Will Ride For PTR Triumph Factory Racing

PitBoard

December 13, 2024

BikeREview-Oli-Baylisss-Triumph-Ractory-Racing-WorldSSP — Oli Bayliss

PTR Triumph Factory Racing complete their rider line up for next season with the signing of Oli Bayliss who will join British rider, Tom Booth-Amos, in the World Supersport Championship for 2025. It will be Oli’s fourth year in the championship, where he is now a regular top 10 finisher… Press: Triumph Aus

Check out our WorldSSP reports here…

Born in Monaco to three-times World Superbike Champion Troy Bayliss, the 21-year-old Australian began racing in the Australian Supersport series in 2017 at the tender age of 13. A couple of successful years in the Australian Superbike domestic series followed before he took a step further in his career and embarked on his first season in the World Supersport Championship in 2022 where he achieved a best result of sixth position.

The following year, Bayliss was hit with injury halfway through the year which halted his progress but in 2024 has gone on to establish himself as a top 10 runner in the Championship. The move to PTR Triumph Factory Racing heralds a new beginning for Bayliss as he changes marque for the first time and has already tested the Triumph Street Triple 765 at Jerez in October.

Oli Bayliss, PTR Triumph Factory Racing:

“I am super excited to continue my World Supersport journey in 2025 with PTR Triumph. We had a test straight after the last round in Jerez and I felt good on the bike and gelled well with the team. I need to say a big thank you to Darrell Healey and GSE for their continuous support over the years and to Simon Buckmaster for giving me this opportunity. I think we can have a good season and achieve some goals.”

Simon Buckmaster, PTR Triumph Factory Racing Team Manager:

“It’s great news we have been able to finalise the deal with Oli Bayliss. He tested with us straight after the last round at Jerez this year and straight away he gelled with Tom, they know each other anyway and get on well. It’s fantastic for us as a team to have two strong riders working together data wise to help bring both of them on. We are really excited looking forward to 2025.”

Steve Sargent, Triumph Motorcycles Chief Product Officer:

“We are pleased to welcome Oli to the Triumph Factory team. He is an exciting young talent who we feel has the potential, alongside Tom to deliver a strong performance in 2025. We feel we have both the bike and the team to help get Oli the results that he deserves, and I am very much looking forward to watching what he and the team can achieve this season.”

Circus Life Christmas & New Year Offer | New Products

PitBoard

December 13, 2024

Author Don Cox has a Christmas and New Year offer on the highly acclaimed book Circus Life – Australian Motorcycle Racers In Europe In The 1950s. The 480-page coffee-table book is on sale for for $85, including shipping within Australia, a saving of over $30 RRP…

Read the Introduction to the book and sample chapters here…

Many of the great characters profiled in the book have left us, leaving their amazing stories of life and times on the famed Continental Circus. Tales of derring-do and occasional bastardry by dodgy promoters. Venues as diverse as the Isle of Man and long public-road circuits behind the Iron Curtain. For more info or to order, visit circuslifebook.com

What They Said About Circus Life:

“I congratulate you on a monumental work, truly superb, so detailed…I was particularly impressed by the chapter on the money side of things…the amount of money paid by Moto Guzzi to Ken Kavanagh was a real eye opener.” – the late Mick Woollett, 1950s GP sidecar passenger, GP photo-journalist, motorcycle newspaper editor and book author, Hemel Hempstead, England

“What you have achieved with this book is quite incredible – stories of lives and racing that would have been lost if you had not had the determination to set it down on paper.” – Dr Martin Raines, MotoGP statistician.

“This is without doubt the best motorcycle book ever, and I have a lot of them.” – Kel Carruthers, Australia’s 1969 world champion.

“A very beautiful thing. It’s a proper work of diligent research; less common in bikes than in cars.” – Mat Oxley, motorcycle journalist and author, London.

Herrick wins at Yamaha bLU cRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals

PitBoard

December 7, 2024

Thomas Herrick has won the 2024 Yamaha Blu Cru Aussie Flat Track Nationals Pro 450 title in an absolute thriller, battling past Jarred Brook in the final race to claim the championship ring at Gunnedah’s Balcary Park Raceway over November 16-17. Press: AFTN Pics: RbMotoLens

International sensation Tom Drane took out both the Flat Track and TT rounds with some entertaining duels with Max Whale and Drane’s American Estenson Yamaha teammate Dallas Daniels. Kristian O’Donnell again dominated Pro Twins on the oval track to wrap up the championship in that class while in Junior Lites Cooper Archibald successfully defended his title, with Riley Nauta and Neiko Donovan taking round wins. In Junior 85’s Lockie Duggan held off a strong challenge from Levi Layton to pick up the championship by a mere four points as well as both round wins.

Herrick had to overcome a 21-point deficit to Jarred Brook over the two days of racing and said the win felt like a massive weight had been lifted off his shoulders. “The anticipation was killing me, it was a month of waiting to find out how this was going to end! That was the most dramatic finish but I had to go for it. Jarred and I clashed a few times on track but that only made me more motivated, I really felt like I wanted it more. On top of that it was so much fun racing with Tom (Drane), Max (Whale) and Dallas (Daniels), they race hard and are very crafty.

Round 5

The Balcary Park Raceway oil track at Gunnedah has been a happy hunting ground for Tom Drane (Yamaha) in the past, but it was his Estenson Yamaha teammate and visiting American star Dallas Daniels who drew first blood. Daniels, who grew up racing with plenty of oil track experience in the USA, claimed the opening race from Drane and fellow international Max Whale (KTM) before Drane went on a winning spree in the following three races.

Behind him, the tension was building with the podium often split between Thomas Herrick (Husqvarna) and Jarred Brook (Husqvarna) – the duo locked in battle for the championship. Whale also featured prominently on the podium, with ASBK Superbike regulars Cameron Dunker (Yamaha)and John Lytras (KTM) also posting solid top five performances.

In Junior Lites all four races were close and produced different winners in each, with Neiko Donovan (Husqvarna), Billy Ryan (KTM), Sam Drane (Yamaha) and Riley Nauta (KTM) all scoring a victory. In Junior 85’s Lockie Duggan (Husqvarna) blitzed the round with a clean sweep of victories while in Clubman Benny Thistleton (KTM) took the round with two race wins and two second places.

Matt Davies took his custom framed Kawasaki to all three race wins on the track – but as his machine is ineligible for championship points the official winners were the CF Moto mounted Kristian O’Donnell with two wins with the remaining victory awarded to Tyler O’Donnell, with Kristian picking up the overall points award for the year.

Pro 450
1 59 Tom Drane
2 18 Max Whale
3 14 Tom Herrick

Junior Lites
1 422 Riley Nauta
2 177 Neiko Donovan
3 52 Billy Ryan

Junior 85
1 10 Lockie Duggan
2 14 Lucy Heaton-New
3 5 Hugo Holmes

Clubman
1 113 Benny Thistleton
2 006 Brody Trembath
3 28 Neil Girdler

Pro Twins
1 Kristian O’Donnell
2 93 Kenny Angel
3 72 Shane Richards

Round 6

The championship decider on the TT track for Sunday threatened fireworks, with Jarred Brook (Husqvarna) and Thomas Herrick (Husqvarna) separated by only ten points. Tom Drane (Yamaha) dominated yet again and featured in some spirited battles with Max Whale (KTM) up front, however the championship deciding action was happening a little further back and hit boiling point when Herrick and Brook came together in race two.

Brook copped a penalty and finished ninth while Herrick surged to second. The pair collided again fighting for the same piece of dirt in race three, with Herrick again coming out on top. A strong finish in the red flag shortened decider sealed the title for Herrick, with Drane taking three wins with Whale grabbing one.

In Junior Lites Cooper Archibald (Husqvarna) successfully defended his title but wasn’t able to stop Neiko Donovan (Husqvarna) on the TT track who took three race wins with Sam Drane (Yamaha) scoring the other victory in race four. In Junior 85’s Lockie Duggan (Husqvarna) also went on a winning streak, picking up the first three races with Levi Layton (KTM) picking up the final race of the weekend with Lucy Heaton-New an impressive third in the final standings. Duggan’s strong showing at Gunnedah saw him crowned champion for the year by a mere four points to Layton.

In Clubman Neil Girdler (Husqvarna) picked up three victories with Benny Thistleton (KTM) the other race winner and also champion for the year.

Pro 450
1 59 Tom Drane
2 18 Max Whale
3 32 Dallas Daniels

Junior Lites
1 177 Neiko Donovan
2 7 Sam Drane
3 422 Riley Nauta

Junior 85
1 10 Lockie Duggan
2 851 Levi Layton
3 27 Tahj Edwards

Clubman Open
1 28 Neil Girdler
2 113 Benny Thistleton
3 24 Andy Fisher

Aussie Flat Track Nationals Series Organiser Dave Maddock: “That was one of the best weekends of racing we have seen at the Aussie Flat Track Nationals, I feel like the standard is picking up year on year. To see the title go down to the wire between Tom Herrick and Jarred Brook had everyone on the edge of their seats – two tough racers that really put on a great show. Our international riders set a high standard throughout the weekend, Tom Drane stole the show and Max Whale really stuck it to him – but it shows our local talent are not too far away with guys like Cameron Dunker and John Lytras shining. It was a pleasure to have American Flat Track star Dallas Daniels join us for the weekend, the field was truly world class”.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the Junior 85s, that title also came down to the final race between Lockie Duggan and Levi Layton. Lucy Heaton-New was a real stand out this year, she was able to compete toe to toe with the boys and will be a great talent to watch in the future. Gunnedah never fails to produce good racing, particularly the TT track. You can see why the Gunnedah Motorcycle Club was awarded 2024 Club of the Year by Motorcycling NSW. Congratulations to all our title winners and thanks to all our competitors and clubs that made the year so successful. We will have some exciting announcements for 2025 in the near future.”

Full season results here…

Pirelli SCORPION MX32 MID SOFT | New Product

PitBoard

December 5, 2024

The new SCORPION MX32 MID SOFT is the successor to Pirelli’s most successful motocross tyre in the FIM Motocross World Championship, a discipline in which the brand has won 82 world titles since 1980 thanks to the successes achieved with Pirelli riders…

Riders such as Stefan Everts, Antonio Cairoli, André Malherbe, Eric Geboers, Jöel Smets, David Thorpe, Jeffrey Herlings, Romain Febvre, Tim Gajser and Jorge Prado. It has been developed thanks to Pirelli’s decades of experience in top motocross competition and is completely new compared to its predecessor.

The new front tyre improves braking behaviour and facilitates cornering, the rear offers even more traction for the holeshot and exiting corners. Finally, the new SCORPION MX32 MID SOFT also improves versatility on medium-hard terrain.

The new SCORPION MX32 MID SOFT will make its official debut in the next Motocross World Championship equipping the bikes of some of the greatest riders of this Championship and, like all Pirelli racing tyres, will also be available for purchase by all motorcycle fans of this discipline.

The new SCORPION MX32 MID SOFT uses a new technology that allows to have on the sidewalls high-contrast lettering for better readability and, in the case of the new motocross tyre, on the sidewall there is also a yellow Pirelli label to allow the product to be identified very quickly on the racetrack.

Racing news | Aussies Racing Abroad December 2024

PitBoard

December 3, 2024

Aussies Racing Abroad | With our Aussies showcasing their skills overseas on-track and off-road, this column focuses on how they’re faring battling it out with the best in their chosen classes. Aussies racing from MotoGP to AMA Motocross and more… Here’s December! Words: Ed Stratmann

On-Track
Jack Miller – MotoGP

Jack Miller ended his 2024 MotoGP season with a solid 13th in Barcelona, in what was his final race with Red Bull KTM Factory before making the switch to Prima Pramac Yamaha for 2025. “I had a good start, settled in there and the tyres stayed good, but I just couldn’t push much and got stuck behind some guys. We signed-off by finishing the race and putting some points on the board. I think both KTM and I wanted more, but I gave my all from the first laps of testing until the last laps today. Onto the next chapter,” he explained.

And that next chapter aboard the Pramac Yamaha has already begun, with the popular Aussie already getting some vital seat time on his new machine at the recent test. Set to be a major asset to his new squad given his experience and proven work developing many different manufacturers, it’ll be exciting seeing how the #43 fares next campaign.

From MotoGP.com – As well as the statement laptime, there was plenty to pull focus at Prima Pramac Yamaha, with new arrivals Miguel Oliveira and Jack Miller debuting on new machinery and the team itself making the much-anticipated switch. They both had the 2024 bike, and Oliveira was P17 after 60 laps, with Miller P22 after 71.

Senna Agius – Moto2

Senna Agius closed out his debut season in Moto2 with a credible 12th in Catalunya to finish 18th in the standings. Starting the finale 10th on the grid, it wasn’t long until he powered into fifth. Unfortunately, his march through the field was halted, however, when he suffered numbness in his right forearm. To his credit, though, he valiantly fought on to complete the bout.

“I had a really good start and on the first few laps, I tried to conserve the tyre. I was able to stay in the leading group quite well. But then, eleven laps before the end, my right arm went to sleep for some reason. I no longer had any control over it and could no longer brake or open the throttle as I wanted,” he lamented.

“I wondered whether I would be able to finish the race at all. So, I just tried to bring the bike home. I’m very disappointed because my bike felt fantastic and the fight for the podium was right in front of me. Getting into it was my plan towards the end. I’ve never had a problem with this physical issue in my life, but something obviously went wrong today. That worries me a bit. Overall, I’m happy with my first World Championship campaign. I did my best and had some good moments. Many thanks to the whole team for all the efforts and work they did for me!”

Setting his sights on making further strides with his LIQUI MOLY Husqvarna Intact GP team next time around, the immensely talented Agius, who banked a memorable maiden Moto2 podium on home soil, will now enjoy a deserved break ahead of what will be a demanding pre-season training schedule.

Jacob Roulstone – Moto3

Jacob Roulstone’s rookie Moto3 term ended on a high note with him clinching an excellent eighth in Barcelona.

Having qualified in ninth, there was much to like about how he rode a measured race and navigated the many challenging situations that inherently come in this wild class. Sitting in 12th with just five laps to go, how the youngster pounced to seize his chance and eventually climb to eighth was very impressive.

“I am happy to finish the season in a decent way. I wish we would have found the pace earlier in the season, but anyway it feels good to finish on that positive note. I knew that Dani was fighting for second, so I tried to get in front of Colin Veijer and Ivan Ortola as best as I could, when I could. He finished second, so I am happy that I could play a tiny part in that success, I am happy for him,” Roulstone reflected.

“It was a bit of a shame to lose the group at some point, but I progressively gained back ground. I am really happy with my season. There were ups and downs, but I am proud about the way I managed to overcome everything. I would like to thank everyone in the team for sticking around me, helping me and giving me the most competitive bike possible in every session and race. I look forward to another season with them next year, and I believe that after a good off-season and preseason training, we will be ready to show our potential for our second year in the championship, and achieve our goals. Thank you to everyone involved!”

Roulstone will now shift his focus to 2025, where he’ll be determined to keep elevating and going from strength to strength in his quest to be regularly battling it out at the top of the category.

Joel Kelso – Moto3

Despite his last race with Boe Motorsports not reaching the heights he intended, it wasn’t all bad, with Joel Kelso’s 14th in qualifying and P12 in the race still being respectable efforts. Struggling at many stages throughout the weekend and unable to match it with the frontrunners, Kelso will now return to Australia to prepare for the 2025 crusade. Changing teams for 2025 to the Level Up-MTA squad, watch for him to right up there, as he aims to be duking it out for title honours.

“It was an easy decision for me to join the Level Up-MTA team. The team consistently demonstrates professional and sporting excellence. I thank manager Alessandro Tonucci for the mutually desired agreement we’ve reached. The 2025 season promises to be exciting as we aim for the Moto3 class crown with a team ready to meet such ambitious goals,”Kelso stated.

Jason O’Halloran – New testing Yamaha role

Experienced BSB star Jason O’Halloran has announced his plans for 2025, as he’ll join the Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official team for the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship alongside Karel Hanika, Marvin Fritz and reserve rider Robin Mulhauser. After 278 races, 28 race wins and 75 podiums in BSB, the “O Show” is looking forward to this next stage of his career.

“I am extremely excited to join the YART team and become a full-time EWC rider. I have spent many years in British Superbikes, but when I started speaking to the team, it just seemed like the perfect move. I want to thank everybody who made this happen. I cannot wait to join up with the team, and what a team! Endurance World Champions in 2009 and 2023, plus Marvin and Karel are amazing riders, and the team’s achievements speak for themselves,” he insisted.

“I had a lot of success in BSB with Yamaha, so I am excited to get back onto the R1. It has always been the bike I gelled with the best; it suits my riding style, and I love riding it. I had a taste of riding in the EWC in the past and it has always been a championship I wanted to race in. With Niccolo retiring, the timing was perfect, and I cannot wait for the challenge ahead.”

His deal also sees the YART team’s long association with Australian riders continue, which has seen Damian Cudlin, Steve Martin, Josh Brookes, Broc Parkes, Wayne Maxwell and Ricky Olson compete for them. The 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship kicks off on April 17 with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans, giving the 36-year-old plenty of time to get dialled for what looms as a captivating season.

Off-Road
Jett Lawrence and Hunter Lawrence – Paris Supercross

Although neither Jett or Hunter Lawrence reigned supreme at the 2024 Paris Supercross, there was still much upside to extract from the showpiece event. Getting some crucial gate drops and testing time on the new bike, it was a terrific weekend to log some data and figure some things out ahead of the new term. In the case of Jett, and he really should’ve been crowned the King of Paris, as he won five of the six races, only for an incident with a lapper while leading the second main event to cost him.

Getting some tremendous starts, looking comfortable in the whoops and rhythms and yet again showcasing why he’s widely regarded as the best on the planet, the masterful phenom left content even if he missed out on defending his title. Meanwhile, Hunter definitely endured a more difficult time at the office. Battling the bike and lacking the comfort needed to perform at his best, the lack of time on the latest offering had a considerable impact on his performance.

Expect the HRC team to get any gremlins sorted out sooner rather than later, as the brothers gear up for a huge 2025.

Up next for the dynamic duo was the AUSX Open in Melbourne, which gave them some extra high-level racing action and offered their loyal fans a rare opportunity to see them on home soil before they return Stateside to prepare for another massive campaign. Hunter took the win, the report is here.

Savatgy champion, Hunter Lawrence wins at AUSX Open

PitBoard

December 2, 2024

On a night that delivered world-class racing and unforgettable moments, Hunter Lawrence claimed a sensational last-race victory at the AUSX Open, the fifth and final round of the Fox Australian Supercross Championship – while American Joey Savatgy was crowned overall champion. Press: AUSX

Marvel Stadium played host to more than 42,000 fans in what was Australia’s largest ever Supercross event and the homecoming for Supercross world 1-2 Jett and Hunter Lawrence. This spectacular event not only determined the winners of the evening but also crowned the 2024 SX1, SX2 and SX3 Champions, following an intense season that spanned Brisbane, Wollongong, Adelaide, and Melbourne.

SX1 Race Results

The SX1 class delivered unforgettable drama and fierce competition at the AUSX Open, with Hunter Lawrence (#96, Honda HRC) taking two of the night’s three races to close out the season in spectacular fashion. Joey Savatgy (#17, Honda HRC) battled adversity, including a flat rear tyre in the final race, but had done enough to claim his first premier-class Fox Australian Supercross Championship.

An injured Dean Wilson (#1, Froth/SCT Logistics/Honda Racing) put on a heroic performance, winning over fans with a valiant and gritty second-place finish in the finale and came agonisingly close to taking the title. Jett Lawrence (#18, Honda HRC) and race one winner Cooper Webb (#3, Star Racing Yamaha) were notably absent from the final race due race two incidents with bike damage and injury, respectively, but their earlier performances added depth and excitement to the event.

Local racers Luke Clout (#4, Empire Kawasaki) and Jed Beaton (#14, CDR Yamaha Monster Energy) showcased consistency and skill throughout, solidifying their positions among the top contenders in a thrilling and fitting conclusion to the SX1 season.

AUSX Open – SX1 Points
Hunter Lawrence (#96, Honda HRC)
Jed Beaton (#14, Yamaha, CDR Yamaha Monster Energy)
Dean Wilson (#1, Honda, Froth/SCT Logistics)
Fox Australian Supercross Championship, SX1
Joey Savatgy (#17, Honda, Froth / Honda HRC) – 115 points
Dean Wilson (#1, Honda, Froth / SCT Logistics / Honda Racing) – 109 points
Luke Clout (#4, Kawasaki, Empire Kawasaki) – 96 points
Jed Beaton (#14, Yamaha, CDR Yamaha Monster Energy) – 92 points
Aaron Tanti (#9, Honda, Boost Mobile / Froth / Honda Racing) – 79 points
Hayden Mellross (#45, KTM, Mellross Homes / KTM) – 69 points
Dylan Wills (#64, GasGas, GasGas Racing Team) – 63 points
Jack Mather (#11, Husqvarna, Raceline Husqvarna) – 53 points
Brett Metcalfe (#24, Kawasaki, Penrite GO24 Team Green) – 49 points
Joel Wightman (#5, Yamaha, Yamaha Racing Team) – 47 points

AUSX Open winner, Hunter Lawrence: “It was incredible. The adrenaline rush from the stadium was unreal. That feeling was honestly a cooler feeling than winning my championships. Having the country behind you is unreal, we cop a lot of shit in America so to feel that at home is unreal. It’s tough to put into words.”

2024 Fox Australian Supercross Overall Champion, Joey Savatgy: “It was stressful, much more than I wanted it to be. I was proud of the effort. We came here with a big goal to get rid of the #17 and the side goal was to win the whole thing which would have been cool in front of this crowd, but not tonight.”

Jett Lawrence: “It (AUSX Open) was a good reset. And to actually have a feeling of who is behind me. You always hear the Aussies are behind us and you want to believe it, but you haven’t fully got to feel it yet. I got to feel a bit of it in 2019 but it was so long ago you forget the feeling. To have that, when we came out for the opening ceremonies, I still get chills now talking about it. Since we’ve been pros we’ve dreamt about it, but we haven’t got it. Coming back here and getting a crowd of more than 40,000 Aussie fans is unreal honestly. You can’t pay money for that feeling, it takes the top of all our championships. It was unreal to hear them every lap.”

SX2 Race Results

The SX2 class also delivered a night of thrilling and dramatic racing at the AUSX Open, culminating in Shane McElrath (#12, Polyflor/Froth/Honda Racing) clinching the championship with a dominant performance. McElrath showcased his experience and precision across all three races, including a hard-fought final where could have cruised to a championship win, but instead chose to move through the field to secure victory in style.

Kayden Minear (#66, KTM Race Team) impressed all assembled with sensational starts and consistent speed. Canadian Col Thompson (#2, Polyflor/Froth/Honda Racing) and New Zealand sensation Brodie Connolly (#88, Polyflor/Froth/Honda Racing) fought fiercely throughout the night, completing the final race podium for an all-Honda finish. The intensity of the battles, coupled with Minear’s emerging talent and McElrath’s calculated brilliance, provided a fitting climax to the SX2 championship.

AUSX Open – SX2 Points
Shane McElrath (#12, Honda, Polyflor / Froth / Honda Racing)
Col Thompson (#2, Honda, Polyflor / Froth / Honda Racing)
Kayden Minear (#66, KTM, KTM Race Team)
Fox Australian Supercross Championships, SX2
Shane McElrath (#12, Honda, Polyflor / Froth / Honda Racing) – 113 points
Col Thompson (#2, Honda, Polyflor / Froth / Honda Racing) – 96 points
Brodie Connolly (#88, Honda, Polyflor / Froth / Honda Racing) – 94 points

“This has been a big win – mentally, psychically, and for the team. I am happy to do it for them, so praise the Lord.”

Shane McElrath: “Man it feels great, this has been a great opportunity. I am thankful for Yarrive, thank God, He’s really blessed us and brought us together. Yarrive is a wear-your-heart-on-the-sleeve kind of guy, and I am the same way. I am happy to do this for him, but for the whole team. This is one of the biggest teams in Australia and they have really been there for me. This has been a big win mentally, physically and for the team. I am happy to do it for them, praise the Lord.”

AUSX Open – SX3 Race Results

The SX3 racing showcased the raw talent and determination of Supercross’s future stars. This class, known for its unpredictable and thrilling battles, delivered a quality display of young riders pushing to their limits under the glare and pressure of the national stage. The intensity and skill on display tonight highlighted why SX3 is the proving ground for the sport’s next generation of champions.

AUSX Open SX3
Kayd Kingsford (#20, Yamaha, Yamaha Racing Team)
Jake Cannon (#3, Honda, Honda Racing)
Cooper Rowe (#25, Husqvarna, Husqvarna Racing Team)
Fox Australian Supercross Championships, SX3
Seth Burchell (#27, Yamaha, Yamaha Racing Team) – 102 points
Jake Cannon (#3, Honda, Honda Racing) – 98 points
Koby Hantis (#94, Yamaha, Yamaha Racing Team) – 91 points

The day also celebrated emerging talent, with exciting races in the SX3, CR22 85cc, and 65cc Cup classes:

SX3 Winner: Kayd Kingsford, WBR Yamaha Bulk Nutrients
CR22 85cc Winner: Seth Thomas #295 Gas Gas Australia
Yamaha 65cc Cup Winner: Mason Ezergailis

From Brisbane to Wollongong then Adelaide and Melbourne, the 2024 Fox Australian Supercross Championship has concluded a spectacular and satisfying five round championship at the AUSX Open at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia. The 2024 Championship has delivered near-capacity crowds, unmatched excitement, and world class performances from the sport’s best riders. Drawing over 42,000 fans for the finale, season 2024 has truly elevated Australian Supercross to new heights, captivating audiences both nationally and globally.

Kelly Bailey, AME Director and AUSX Open Event Director, reflected on the season’s success and the collective effort that made it possible: “This season has shown what can be achieved through the combined efforts of teams, sponsors, and riders, whose commitment has delivered exceptional racing at every round.

“To the fans—thank you. Your passion and support have created an incredible atmosphere and driven us to set the bar higher. You are the ultimate arbiters of this championship, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

“Our staff have been the backbone of this season’s success, working tirelessly to manage everything from track builds to event coordination and fan engagement.

“Building on the momentum of 2024, we’re excited to deliver an even bigger and better season in 2025.”

Full results for the season can be found here…

FREE! AUSX Fan Day at Marvel Stadium This Friday!

PitBoard

November 26, 2024

Supercross fans, get ready for an experience like no other! The AUSX Open Fan Day is set to take over Marvel Stadium Square this Friday, November 29th, giving fans early access to meet the world’s best supercross riders ahead of the Australian Supercross Championship Grand Finale AUSX OPEN!

This is a FREE family-friendly event promises an action-packed afternoon filled with early rider access, autograph signings, Q&A sessions, giveaways, and exciting brand activations – all bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.

Fan Day Details: Date: Friday, November 29th Time: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM Location: Marvel Stadium Square (Gates 2 & 3)

Meet the worlds best supercross stars, including Jett Lawrence, Hunter Lawrence, and Cooper Webb.
Australian Championship contenders: Joey Savatgy, Dean Wilson, Luke Clout, Matt Moss + More
Enjoy live Q&A sessions with riders, special guests, and event ambassadors Charlie Dixon.
Get exclusive autographs during rider signing sessions.
Participate in giveaways and brand activations.

The AUSX Open Fan Day is your chance to get up close and personal with the heroes of the sport before they hit the track on Saturday for the most highly anticipated supercross event of the year!

Last-Minute Tickets – Don’t Miss Out!

To celebrate the championship finale, a limited release of last-minute tickets has been announced, starting at just $39. This is your final chance to secure seats to witness history as the AUSX Open Grand Finale brings together the sport’s biggest names under one roof at Marvel Stadium.

Get Ready for the Grand Finale

Fans attending Fan Day will be the first to soak up the supercross atmosphere before the high-stakes action kicks off on Saturday, November 30th. With limited tickets remaining, don’t wait – secure your spot now and be part of the largest supercross event in the Southern Hemisphere! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ausxopen.com.

Australia’s largest and most prestigious Supercross event, the AUSX Open, makes it’s emphatic return this Saturday night, November 30, inside Marvel Stadium.

For the first time in history, Australians will headline the event, ranked number one and two in the world. Queenslanders Jett and Hunter Lawrence, departed Australia to compete professionally 9 years ago, with this weekend’s event marking their first race on home soil since climbing to the pinnacle of global motorcycle racing in Europe and the USA.

Queenslanders Jett and Hunter Lawrence return to race Down Under after 9 years taking on the world.

Joining both, is American superstar and 2-times World Champion, Cooper Webb. Fresh off a victory in the famous Paris Supercross event and runner up placing in the AMA Supercross Championship in the USA, Cooper aims to be the spoiler in the Lawrence brothers homecoming parade.

Set to be the largest supercross event in history outside of the USA, over 40,000 people will descend on Marvel Stadium, from all over Australia and internationally. Fans will witness a historic night of fierce competition.

The epic showdown and return of the world’s best racers at Australia’s largest Supercross event, will reach fever pitch, as champions will be crowned in the Fox Australian Supercross Championship. Melbourne doubling not only as one of the world’s biggest one-off events, but also, as the fifth and final round of Australia’s most prestigious motorcycle racing championship.

MotoGP Round 20 Report | Martin Wins World Title!

PitBoard

November 20, 2024

MotoGP Round 20 | Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) is the 2024 MotoGP™ World Champion! Having taken a 24-point lead into the title-deciding weekend at the Solidarity GP of Barcelona, the Spaniard held his nerve to win his first premier class title by 10 points. Report: Ed Stratmann/MotoGP

Friday Practice and Saturday Qualifying
MotoGP

Day 1 of #TheRematch decider at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona belonged to the hunter – Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team).

Read our Round 19 MotoGP Report here…

The reigning #1 set the pace on Friday to land an important early jab on World Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), as the latter managed to hold onto a fifth place finish after encountering some Turn 5 troubles deep into Practice. It was job done in terms of getting into Q2 without too many issues for the #89, but there was plenty of room for improvement for the rider who sat 24 points clear of the current #1 with the biggest Saturday of the season firmly on the horizon.

Operating inside the top three on Day 1 was second fastest – and one of Bagnaia’s chief allies – Marco Bezzecchi. The Italian was on song in Practice as he aimed to bid farewell to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team with a podium finish at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) started the Tissot Sprint and Grand Prix at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona from pole as the #1 stayed cool under pressure to hold on at the top. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) made a late lunge for glory but came up short by just 0.055 in his final Q2, with Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) completing a fascinating front row – and one that doesn’t feature Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing). He will instead start P4, directly behind his title rival Bagnaia.

Moto2

0.231s was the advantage Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) held heading into Saturday at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona after the Spaniard set a 1:42.426 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) pocketed P2 on his final Friday with the Aspar outfit, as Manuel Gonzalez (Gresini Moto2™) claimed third as the Spaniard went hunting for a third place Championship finish.

After claiming a phenomenal podium in Malaysia, Jorge Navarro (OnlyFans American Racing) kicked off his Solidarity GP with a P4 in Practice 1, as Sepang winner Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) completed Friday’s fastest five. Newly crowned World Champion, Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), had a solid outing to end the day in P6.

A 1:42.003 handed Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) a final race of the season pole position at the Solidarity GP of Barcelona, and by a decent margin too. A tenth and a half was the Spaniard’s advantage over second place Manuel Gonzalez (Gresini Moto2™), as a late flyer from Zonta van den Goorbergh (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) saw the Dutch star grab a front-row start in third.

Moto3

Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) topped the Moto3™ timesheets in Practice 1 thanks to a 1:46.568, but it wasn’t by much as compatriot David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) lapped within a tenth of the #96. Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) slotted his Honda inside the top three, just under two tenths away from Holgado’s pace.

Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) and Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) bagged top five results on Friday as the latter aimed to beat Holgado on Sunday to the 2024 silver medal honour. The duo sat tied on points ahead of qualifying and the race.

It was seven pole positions in 2024 for World Champion David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) as the Colombian again shone brightest on a Saturday afternoon. The #80 claimed pole by over three tenths in Barcelona to head Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) on the front row, as both set their sights on finishing as the overall runner-up in 2024 on Sunday.

Full Friday practice and qualifying results all classes are here...

Saturday
Tissot Sprint

It was pretty much a must-win Tissot Sprint for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona, so win it he did. But it was also nearing a must-not-bin Sprint for Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), and he passed his test too.

Revs up, lights out – it was a tight, tight run into the first corner, with it looking like Bagnaia was set for the holeshot before Martin made up the metres to move alongside – and then Bastianini sailed past both. But Bagnaia attacked back in the melee, grabbing the lead again round Turn 3.

There was drama at the same corner on Lap 1 as Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) then tangled, however. Both headed wide and both stayed upright, but Marquez was able to collect it – and Acosta’s front fairing got ripped off, leading the rookie to limp back to pitlane, out of the action.

Bagnaia led Bastianini and Martin, but by the end of Lap 2, the reigning Champion was starting to build a small gap as the #89 lined up Bastianini. He got the job done into Turn 1, close but perfectly-judged, and stayed ahead until the next time round – when Bastianini did an even more brutal carbon copy to take back second.

The two were then locked together for another lap before Martin hit back, finding a few more millimetres to really push both to the edge. With that, the momentum behind for Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) and Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP) got them involved, but Martin was just clear and Bastianini shouldered his way back through to third. As you were.

At the front, Bagnaia pounded on. Martin was hovering just over a second away but the gap was going up tenth by tenth, with those on his tail not being left behind either. Bastianini had faded briefly but got back within half a second, and both Alex Marquez and Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) were now on the scene as Morbidelli started to get dropped.

By the penultimate lap, it was Bagnaia holding a small gap ahead of that quartet. But then Alex Marquez was wide at Turn 10 and Espargaro got through, dividing the four into a duel for fourth and a decisive one ahead: the points leader vs. his title rival’s teammate for second.

Down the main straight for the final time, Bastianini wasn’t quite close enough. But he was able to close in and by Turn 5, the red machine darted out from behind the Championship leader and went for it. Breath held, the move was aggressive but clean enough, and crucially it got the job done. Now Martin had to decide whether to try and reply or take the third place he’d got pretty secure. He looked tempted but Bastianini offered no way back through.

Bagnaia crossed the line just less than a second clear to ensure the Championship fight rolled on to the final showdown of the season, staying near perfect under pressure. Bastianini got his elbows out to stake a further claim on that third overall, as well as proving his own point.

Martin put in the exact performance needed to ensure he remained in a comfortable position heading into the Grand Prix – now 19 points clear. Could he wrap it up on Sunday? The duel behind saw Espargaro hold onto fourth, with Alex Marquez completing the top five.

“Job done for today, but for tomorrow we need to repeat what we did,” Bagnaia said. “I think that more than this is impossible, Jorge did again a fantastic job so it’s fantastic that it’s like this. Let’s see for tomorrow, but for today I’m very happy.”

Tissot Sprint Race Results

Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo
Enea Bastianini Ducati Lenovo (+0.942s
Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati (+1.270s
Aleix Espargaro Aprilia Racing (+1.857s
Alex Marquez Gresini Ducati (+1.942s

Sunday
MotoGP

After 20 Tissot Sprints and 19 Grands Prix, everything came down to the final race of the season… and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) held his nerve. The #89 was crowned the 2024 MotoGP™ World Champion with a third place finish, becoming the first Independent Team rider to clinch the title in the MotoGP™ era. Even with Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) taking an incredible 11th GP victory of the season, the podium was enough for the #Mart1nator to take the crown.

Meanwhile, Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) claimed a strong second place, shadowing Bagnaia for much of the race before being forced to settle for second. It was, however, his 150th GP podium as he prepares to saddle up in red.

Bagnaia nailed the start to take the holsehot, but Martin got a rocket launch too to slot into second – initially. By Turn 1 on Lap 2 though, Marc Marquez attacked the Championship leader to tag onto the back of Bagnaia in the lead. A rear gunner or just waiting to pounce?

Martin then had Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) for company, but soon enough Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) was on the scene. He diced with the Beast before Bastianini then went deep into Turn 1 and dropped back into the battle for fifth, leaving Espargaro as the rider safe on the chase behind Martin. Another rear gunner?

Bastianini was ultimately left fighting with Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), as at the front Bagnaia and Marquez were stretching away. Martin was in a safe enough third, but as the laps ticked on the battle behind him was going from any questions about rear gunners to serious throwdown as Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) and Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) arrived on the scene.

Bagnaia’s pace was relentless, remaining inside the 1:40 bracket with 11 laps remaining. It was an impressive ride from the Italian, pulling out all stops to increase a half-a-second gap to Marc Marquez. The #93 tried everything to respond, initially looking like he was fading before beginning to turn up the wick and match the Italian’s pace.

Behind, it was getting loose. Acosta was sixth on the circuit, losing a position to Bastianini before dropping to ninth on Lap 18, losing a further place to Morbidelli and receiving a track limits warning as the trio and Binder battled it out. Elbows were likewise out.

In the closing stages, it was becoming clear. Bagnaia was going to win the Grand Prix as he started to stretch away, and Marc Marquez was going to sign off from Gresini on the box. But Martin was going to win the 2024 MotoGP™ World Championship. Where in 2023 he may have faltered or doubted or come up short, not this time. The #89 staked his claim on the #1 plate with a third place finish, celebrating the title in style with a record-breaking 16th GP podium of the year, a new record for a Ducati rider. One he shares with Bagnaia, whose throne he now takes over despite the 2022 and 2023 World Champion’s awesome 11 GP wins this year.

Alex Marquez managed to edge out Espargaro in the closing laps, finishing fourth and missing the podium rostrum by just 1.512 seconds. Espargaro would round out the top five after the #41 defended heroically in the closing laps in his final outing as a full-time rider.

And just like that, 2024 drew to a close after an unforgettable season which will go down in the history books. However, the focus now shifts to Tuesday for the Barcelona Test as the riders and teams return to track for the first on their 2025 machines, where it will mark Martin’s debut for Aprilia! And remember: we’re about to see the new brand too! Stay tuned.

“I don’t know what to say, I’m completely shocked. On the last few laps I couldn’t even ride, I started crying a bit, it was really an emotional race. It’s been a long journey, a lot of crashes and big injuries. So finally we are here,” an overjoyed Martín explained.

MotoGP Race Results

Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo
Marc Marquez Gresini Ducati (+1.474s)
Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati (+3.810s)
Alex Marquez Gresini Ducati (+5.322s)
Aleix Espargaro Aprilia Racing (+5.753s)

Check out the full MotoGP race results here…

MotoGP Championship Points

Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati – 508
Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo – 498
Marc Marquez Gresini Ducati – 392
Enea Bastianini Ducati Lenovo – 386
Brad Binder Red Bull KTM – 217

Moto2

Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) grabbed victory at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona, holding firm after a stunning ride from the #44. Canet defended in the closing laps to beat Manuel Gonzalez (Gresini Moto2™) by just 0.091s, a result that helped the #18 bag third in the World Championship.

In the battle for third, Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing) triggered his inner Valentino Rossi to pass World Champion Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) at the final corner to become the first Brazilian to finish on the intermediate class podium since Adu Celso at the 1973 Swedish GP.

There was drama from the off as front-row starter Zonta van den Goorbergh (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) and Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) crashed out together at Turn 1. Both riders were conscious, but both went to a local hospital for further examination after their Lap 1 incident. Elsewhere, Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) and Jorge Navarro’s (OnlyFans American Racing Team) race ended early at Turn 5 as the pair made contact and crashed – riders OK.

At the front, Gonzalez put the hammer down in the opening laps as he built a half second margin over polesitter Canet. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (Sync SpeedUp) served his Long Lap penalty from the Thai GP which dropped the #54 to P13.

Canet’s key move came on Lap 4, igniting a duel with Gonzalez at the front of the field. Ogura sat comfortably in third, chipping away at the leader’s gap as the newly crowned World Champion sported a special livery to celebrate a successful 2024 campaign for MT Helmets – MSI.

Ogura had Moreira for company, with the Brazilian glued to the #79’s tailpipe. The impressive rookie was showing a consistent pace and the battle ignited on Lap 19, with Moreira’s first attempt arriving at Turn 3, but Ogura responded instantly at Turn 4.

Canet secured glory after a drag race to the line, winning by just 0.091s, fending off the hard-charging Gonzalez at the flag. It was a stunning end to the Grand Prix, with Moreira and Ogura’s duel being decided at the final corner. The Brazilian produced a magical final corner move to pocket a debut podium and secure Rookie of the Year honours, with Ogura forced to settle for P4 in his last intermediate class dance.

Moto2 Race Results

Aron Canet Fantic Racing
Manuel Gonzalez Gresini Moto2 (+0.091s)
Diogo Moreira Italtrans Racing Team (+1.124s)
Ai Ogura MT Helmets – MSI (+1.167s)
Filip Salac Elf Marc VDS Racing (+3.450s)

Moto2 Championship Points

Ai Ogura MT Helmets – MSI – 274
Aron Canet Fantic Racing – 234
Manuel Gonzalez QJMOTOR Gresini – 195
Sergio Garcia MT Helmets – MSI – 191
Fermin Aldeguer Beta Tools Speed Up – 181

Moto3

For a truly incredible and historic 14th time in 2024, David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) emerged victorious in another brilliant Moto3™ battle. 0.147s split the Colombian and second place Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) at the chequered flag as the latter clinched the 2024 silver medal, as Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) earned a final race of the year podium after teammate Adrian Fernandez was handed a post-race three-second penalty.

Once the lights went out, Alonso took the holeshot after a phenomenal launch from pole position. The #80 seized an advantage over Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) and Holgado as the final Grand Prix of the season got underway. David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) was the rider on the move in the opening laps, with the #64 charging to fourth after qualifying P12 on the grid. Muñoz soon joined the podium battle, overtaking Ortola before pipping Alonso to enter second place on Lap 3.

It was a slipstream city at the front, with positions changing hands at every opportunity, to the delight of the Spanish crowd. Fernandez emerged as the contender for the lead, beginning to engage in a fierce duel with Holgado. Meanwhile, Alonso sat comfortably in eighth position, waiting for his opportunity to return to the podium fight.

There was action at every turn as Alonso worked hard to slowly carve his way through the field. Taking advantage of Ortola’s and Muñoz’s battle, the #80 was able to surge into second position. The Colombian was chasing a remarkable 14th win of the season, with tension mounting as he retook the lead on Lap 14.

The gloves were off in the closing laps, with elbows out throughout the top 10 as the season finale prepared to go down to the wire. Alonso had the lead on the final lap, securing a three-tenth margin after the front group continued to battle behind. Holgado was in pursuit, looking to find an opportunity on the newly crowned World Champion.

At the line, Alonso powered out of the final corner to win by a mere 0.147s ahead of Holgado. The #96 gave his all on the final lap, unable to catch Alonso as Holgado took another podium to secure second position in the World Championship. Meanwhile, Piqueras took the final spot on the podium after a shortcut from Fernandez on the final lap.

Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) turned around his weekend, fighting from P17 on the grid to finish in P4, beating Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) who rounded out the top five in Barcelona.

Moto3 Race Results

David Alonso CFMOTO GaviotaAspar Team
Daniel Holgado Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 (+0.147s)
Angel Piqueras Leopard Racing (+1.210s)
Jose Antonio Rueda Red Bull KTM Ajo (+1.352s)
Ryusei Yamanaka MT Helmets – MSI (+1.685s)

Moto3 Championship Points

David Alonso CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team – 421
Daniel Holgado Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 – 256
Collin Veijer Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP – 242
Ivan Ortola MT Helmets – MSI – 224
David Munoz BOE Motorsports – 172

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