The announcement marks one of the biggest developments in modern off-road motorcycling, combining the lightweight simplicity and explosive performance of a traditional two-stroke with modern electronic fuel injection technology.

Read our motocross news here…

At the heart of both models is a new 327cc fuel-injected single-cylinder two-stroke engine featuring electric start, a specially designed exhaust valve system and selectable power modes. Kawasaki says the engine delivers strong low-rpm traction, crisp throttle response and a smooth, linear torque curve while maintaining the lightweight feel that has made two-strokes a favourite among serious off-road riders.

The new platform has been built around a lightweight aluminium perimeter frame paired with KYB suspension and hydraulic clutch operation, creating what Kawasaki describes as the next generation of two-stroke off-road performance.

The motocross-focused KX327 features a five-speed close-ratio transmission, smartphone connectivity, slim bodywork and race-focused ergonomics aimed at motocross and closed-course competition.

For riders looking beyond the motocross track, Kawasaki has also developed the KX327X, a cross-country and enduro-focused version featuring a six-speed gearbox, ultra-low first gear, larger 8.3-litre fuel tank, hand guards, skid plate, side stand and a 21-inch front/18-inch rear wheel combination.

The arrival of the KX327 range is significant enough that Kawasaki has also revised its model naming structure, with its four-stroke competition bikes now carrying an “F” designation.

KX450F and KX250F updated
Alongside the new two-strokes, Kawasaki has updated its four-stroke motocross range for 2027. The KX450F and KX450FX receive revised intake and exhaust systems designed to improve low-end response and mid-to-high-rpm performance. Chassis updates include a redesigned swingarm and longer wheelbase aimed at improving traction, stability and overall handling.

Meanwhile, the KX250F and KX250FX continue to evolve following their major 2025 update, with refined suspension settings, enhanced clutch performance and improved mass centralisation.

Mini’s & Junior
Kawasaki’s junior motocross range, including the KX112, KX85, KX85L and KX65, returns for 2027 alongside the KLX300R, KLX230 S and KLX230R S trail bike models.

Australian pricing and final specifications will be announced closer to launch, with Kawasaki expecting the new 2027 off-road range to arrive in Australia and New Zealand during the first quarter of 2027.

2027 Kawasaki off-road range gallery

The post Kawasaki Announce Fuel Injected Two-Stroke KX327 and KX327X appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

Swiss local Jeremy Seewer delivered a sensational third overall in front of a home crowd at Frauenfeld. Just 30km from his hometown of Bülach, the 30-year-old Seewer put on a heroic performance in tricky conditions. After qualifying sixth on Saturday, he fought hard in race one to secure seventh despite dropping back from a strong start. Teammate Alessandro Lupino salvaged 19th after a tough opening moto, overcoming setup issues and a poor start.

Check out our Motocross news here…

Race two saw drama early, with Seewer charging into turn one in the lead, only to be pushed wide and hit by a flying rock, temporarily numbing his leg and dropping him to eighth. Meanwhile, Lupino was caught in a first-turn pileup and had to restart from the rear of the field.

Undeterred, Seewer launched an incredible comeback, carving through the pack and staging a last-lap pass for third, sealing Ducati’s first MXGP podium in only their sixth Grand Prix appearance. “Ducati’s first podium is huge!” Seewer said. “We started from zero and worked so hard. To achieve this here at home in front of my fans, it’s just the best day of my life!”

Lupino also showed grit, climbing to 15th in the second moto and earning valuable championship points. The Italian will return to the Italian Prestige MX2 Championship next weekend aboard the Desmo250 MX. Seewer now sits ninth in the MXGP standings heading into the next round in Agueda, Portugal. “This weekend was positive,” said Lupino. “I only had one day on the bike before racing and struggled at first, but I found good speed. The results don’t show our true potential, but I’m happy with the progress.”

The post Ducati Clinches Historic First MXGP Podium at Swiss Round appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

His speed and skills were showcased from the outset, winning the prologue, the opening stage and the ultra-tough 48-hour Chrono stage to get the early upper hand that put him in a great position early on. Further wins in stages four and seven on his KTM 450 Rally followed shortly after, and put in solid performances in the remaining stages to ensure he is just the second rider in the history of the Dakar Rally to lead from start to finish, echoeing Marc Coma’s efforts in 2009.

The final quarter of the 16-day event did, however, have some challenges thrown his way, including a tough run in stage 11 where his overall lead was slashed by seven and a half minutes, but Sanders held his nerve and steadied for the 61km final dash to the flag, with a sixth-place finish enough to clinch overall victory. With the win coming in Sanders’ fifth attempt of the rally, he is also the second Australian to win the iconic event following Toby Price’s efforts in 2016 and 2018.

‘Chucky’ Sanders was dominant in the Dakar Rally, leading from start to finish “It’s a massive accomplishment from myself and the team after a tough year, and I can’t thank everyone enough for the support,” he said. “It’s been a long journey, and I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone “Now it’s time to kick back and relax after a long two weeks.”

Tosha Schareina (Monster Energy Honda, +8:50) and Adrien Van Beveren (Monster Energy Honda, +14:46) were second and third respectively.

It was a mixed bag for the remaining Australians competing in Dakar, with Toby Hederics (BAS World KTM) putting in a formidable performance to finish 19th overall in the bike classification, while Andrew Houlihan (Nomadas Adventure KTM) withdrew following stage eight.

Andreas Hölzl – Rally Team Manager: “That’s the 2025 Dakar done! I’m super happy for Chucky and the rest of the guys, the win is so well deserved. To be the second person ever to lead from the first day to the end is something really special. What we have achieved in a year is unique and we are very proud. I’m happy for the team, for KTM, and we are going to celebrate for sure!”

Provisional Standings – 2025 Dakar Rally (after 12 of 12 stages)

1. Daniel Sanders (AUS), KTM, 53:08:52
2. Tosha Schareina (ESP), Honda, 53:17:42 +8:50
3. Adrien Van Beveren (FRA), Honda, 53:23:38 +14:46
4. Luciano Benavides (ARG), KTM, 53:31:08 +22:16
5. Ricky Brabec (USA), Honda, 53:38:42 +29:50

The post Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders dominates 2025 Dakar Rally appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

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…

The post Herrick wins at Yamaha bLU cRU Aussie Flat Track Nationals appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

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…

The post Savatgy champion, Hunter Lawrence wins at AUSX Open appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

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.

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.

The post FREE! AUSX Fan Day at Marvel Stadium This Friday! appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

In the first round of the Italian MX1 Championship, held on the International Circuit of Mantua, the eight-time Italian Champion, after having set the best benchmark both in free practice and in qualifying, led the opening heat from the first to the last lap. In the second heat, after a difficult start, Lupino finished seventh after a great comeback, sealing the second overall place in the round.

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding: “This weekend in Mantua we wrote another chapter in the history of Ducati. Alessandro Lupino and our team gave us some great fun and, despite it being the first motocross race in our recent history, we immediately demonstrated outstanding performance. Best time in free practice, pole and victory in the first heat are truly a debut that lives up to expectations: we have gathered a lot of information which will be fundamental to best develop the bike that will be available to all enthusiasts next year. Congratulations to Alessandro and our entire off-road team, a fantastic start to a new story of sport and passion.”

Alessandro Lupino, official rider of the Ducati Corse R&D – Factory MX Team: “These were two very exciting days, my debut with the Ducati was truly a dream: they told me it would be, but today I experienced it! Feeling like a Ducatista is a truly special sensation. Congratulations to all the guys who worked on this project, because in a very short time they created a spectacular bike, with a lot of potential, doing an incredible job. Together we wrote a page of history: first pole and first heat victory for the Ducati Desmo450 MX. Unfortunately, the second heat didn’t go as I would have liked: I got the start wrong and wasn’t able to recover. But that’s okay, now the engineers have the data to analyse two completely different situations!”

Sunday’s two heats allowed Ducati engineers to collect the first important data to continue the development of the Desmo450 MX which, upon its debut, has confirmed the validity of the technical base of the prototype. The focus of the Ducati Off-Road project is a combination of the search for lightness pushed to the extreme, top-of-the-line components and engines characterised by a very broad delivery curve. The latter is obtained thanks to the utilisation of the Desmodromic system, used on all the sports bikes of the Borgo Panigale company starting from MotoGP. Ducati is in fact the only company in the world that uses the same valve return system on its highest performing production motorcycles as it uses on racing prototypes.

The next round of the Italian Motocross Championship is scheduled for 27 and 28 April on the Cingoli (MC) circuit. In the meantime, the tests of the Ducati Corse R&D – Factory MX Team will continue together with Alessandro Lupino and Tony Cairoli, present in Mantua to support the eight-time Italian Motocross Champion.

The post Historic debut of the Ducati Desmo450 MX in the Italian Motocross Championship appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

For over 20 years, Yamaha Australia has been a major player in the Australian Off Road Championship and that will continue for 2024 as again the bLU cRU have taken up the naming rights of the long standing championship. Another 12 rounds over six weekends are scheduled and taking in some of the best riding terrain in the country with the nations’ best off-road pilots.

ShopYamaha Off-Road
Spearing Yamaha’s presence at the AORC will be the ShopYamaha off Road Team of Kyron Bacon and Wil Dennett. The two young guns of Australian enduro racing will be out to make their presence felt with Bacon contesting the E1 division (250cc) while Dennett steps up to handle the E2 duties (450cc).

Tasmanian based sensation, Kyron Bacon is fit, fast and motivated to get his AORC number 1 plate back after an injury interrupted 2023 season. Bacon took the E1 and outright honours in 2022, but a broken leg mid-way through the 2023 season halted any chance of retaining the crown, but to his credit, he still managed to charge his way back to a podium position by seasons end and finish the year on a strong note. 

“Last year had some challenges but it also had a lot of positive things I can take from it and I’m fired up and ready to get racing in 2024,” Bacon begins. “I’m well and truly over my injury and riding well and have already spent a few days with the team testing and preparing for the new season.”

“I missed a couple of rounds last year and even though Josh Green has retired, the depth of this years’ championship looks even better. Having Daniel back will be great for the championship and his profile can only add to the AORC and I look forward to racing not just him, but all the other riders in this years’ championship and doing my best to keep the number one plate on Yamaha for another year,” Bacon said.     

Alongside Bacon will be Wil Dennett who steps into the E2 division after the retirement of long-time racer, Josh Green. But make no mistake, Dennett earned his way onto the premier team with some sensational performances in the Under 19 class in 2023, that included plenty of Outright podiums and top five results.   

Racing with bLU cRU support in 2023, Dennett was comfortably the most improved rider in last years’ championship and the steep learning curve looks set to stay with his progression to the ShopYamaha team and under the guidance of AJ Roberts.

“I have been a Yamaha rider for a long time and it’s awesome that I have been able to work my way up through the ranks with their support and make it to the premier team,” Dennett says with enthusiasm. “Last year was awesome for me, and it was topped off when AJ called at the end of the season and offered me a ride. I’m not sure who was more stoked, me or my dad.

“I have to keep working hard and I have big shoes to fill with Josh retiring but I’m looking forward to it. The extra support from the team gives me more time to ride and train, my bikes will be better prepared, and I have worked hard over the off season to improve my riding and fitness, so I will be ready for the opening rounds.”

Yamaha Ballard’s Off-Road Racing
Jess Gardiner and her team are back for another season and looking to keep the momentum going from a successful 2024 season that saw her and Danielle McDonald win their respective championships as well as finish on the podium in the worlds team championships (ISDE) in Argentina.

Continuing with a three-rider outfit that will now see McDonald join Gardiner in the senior women’s class after dominates the junior girls while Jeremy Carpentier will fly the flag in the E1 class on the WR450F.

Gardiner will be gunning for eighth AORC championship, but it is highly likely, her main opposition will be parked right beside her in the JGR tent. Gardiner has been a mentor for McDonald over the past few seasons, but this year, they go head-to-head over 12 rounds. Will it be the gritty determination of the veteran in Gardiner that climbs the mountain again, or the young, fast and stylish McDonald that brings the gardiner train to a halt?

For Carpentier, the all new WR450F has been like a breath of fresh air and he has gelled with the bike the moment he threw a leg over it. The light, agile and exciting new model that was built for Australian conditions has Carpentier charged up for the new season and ready to create some damage in the E2 class.

Yamaha bLU cRU Support
A new layer of support was introduced by Yamaha for the 2023 and the success was instant. The three-rider team of Cooper Sheidow, Wil Dennett and Jett Yarnold finished the year with two AORC championships and a third place in an outstanding debut. The support given to Wil Dennett enabled him to move up to the ShopYamaha team while Sheidow and Yarnold return for another season with Yamaha bLU cRU Support.

Sheidow is the current E1 champion after a consistent and impressive start to his time on Yamaha. He was in the heat of the battle right from the opening round, filled in for the inured Bacon with the ShopYamaha team and when the pressure was on at the final round, Sheidow kept his composure and secured the championship for himself and Yamaha.

The South Australian rider established himself on the national scene in 2023 and with a season under his belt on Yamaha as well as the continued support of the ShopYamaha team, expect Sheidow to continue his upward trend in the 2024 season.  

Yarnold stepped out of juniors and made in an immediate impact, taking third in the EJ (under 19 championship), and finishing on the podium at most rounds. Yarnold adapted well to the team surroundings and will enter this year’s championships as one of the favourites in the development category.

GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing
Yamaha Junior Racing made the move into off road racing in 2023 with the two-rider line up of Marcus Nowland and Harley Hutton. Both return for 2024 with YJR support and will continue to fly the flag at AORC events.

Hutton won multiple rounds in 2023 and showed he is the real deal when it comes to off road despite his young age. He will again contest the J2 (85cc) class for 2024 and will be out to get the number one plate on his YZ85.

For Nowland, he had an up and down year but gained valuable experience in his first year on the bigger capacity bikes. Now settled and comfortable on the 250cc machine, Nowland will be aiming for the top as he embarks on the new season.

The 2024 AORC gets under way in March and will run 12 rounds ending in September. 

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As a dual Australian champion, Tungate, from Kurri Kurri (NSW), now joins a revered group of riders who have won the Duke of Edinburgh trophy on multiple occasions, including Fricke, Chris Holder, Leigh Adams, Jason Crump, Craig Boyce and Bill Sanders.

Despite a disappointing final round, Fricke’s exceptional body of work, particularly in rounds 2-4 – including top-scoring results in Wodonga and Mildura – saw him still finish second in the championship, 6pts ahead of Jack Holder and Jaimon Lidsey.

To bookmark what has been an exceptional championship, Holder then won a run-off against Lidsey to officially finish third overall, with the leading quartet now locked in for the 2024 Speedway GP qualifiers which culminate in the Czech Republic on October 4. The top three riders in that event earn spots in the 2025 Speedway GP series.

“My main goal throughout the championship was to be consistent and try to make as many finals as possible to keep the pressure on,” said Tungate. “I’m proud I was able to do that, but it wasn’t easy in the face of such strong opposition. There were a couple of hiccups along the way, but I remained hungry and determined throughout and I’m delighted to win my second Aussie title. And to wrap it up at Gillman, one of the best speedway tracks in the country, was really satisfying. Thanks to all the riders who competed, and I especially want to acknowledge Max (Fricke) who put on a great show and is always exceptionally hard to beat.”

The Australian Championship was turned on its head early on at Gillman after Fricke only scored 2pts in his opening three rides – an exclusion and two third places – while Tungate was peerless with four wins in succession. Fricke wasn’t done yet, though. A magnificent rearguard action him win his final two races to sneak into the semi-finals – but that was where his gritty fightback ended as he finished last in the opening semi-final behind Tungate, Jack Holder and Chris Holder.

The weight was then lifted from Tungate’s shoulders, as he only had to finish the final to guarantee championship success – and that he did, finishing second behind Brady Kurtz and in front of Lidsey and Jack Holder.

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AMX Superstores will not only remain as a ‘presented by’ partner for ProMX over the next two seasons, but the retailer will also continue to sponsor the cut-throat MX1 Superpole session – the frenetic battle for final gate positions between Australia’s best riders. The 2024 Penrite ProMX Championship presented by AMX Superstores will begin in Wonthaggi (Vic) on Sunday, March 17.

AMX Superstores, which currently has 31 stores across Vic, NSW, Qld, SA and the ACT, as well as a massive online presence, holds a special place in the ProMX family as a foundation industry partner when the newly branded championship first began in 2021. Furthermore, AMX Superstores was a major player in the motocross scene for well over a decade before ProMX was inaugurated.

Over the last few years, AMX Superstores – which began with a store in suburban Melbourne in 2008 – has continued on a massive growth curve, with plans to service even more parts of Australia with leading brands across the motocross, off-road, adventure and road segments.

AMX Superstores Business Manager, Rob Farrimond, is delighted to be continuing its support of ProMX.

“Being a foundation sponsor, it’s fantastic for AMX Superstores to have the opportunity to extend our future investment and partnership with ProMX,” he said. “The last three years have shown that motocross racing in Australia is on the way up, and we love being amongst it to make the series bigger and better for all fans.”

2024 Penrite ProMX Championship presented by AMX Superstores calendar:

•   Rd1: March 17, Wonthaggi, Vic 
•   Rd2: April 7, Horsham, Vic
•   Rd3: May 5, Gillman, SA
•   Rd4: May 26, Maitland, NSW
•   Rd5: June 23, Murray Bridge, SA
•   Rd6: July 21, Toowoomba, Qld
•   Rd7: August 11, MX Farm Queensland, Gympie, Qld
•   Rd8: August 17-18, Queensland Moto Park, Coulson, Qld

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