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Circus Life Christmas & New Year Offer | New Products

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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

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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

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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…

Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.
Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.

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.

Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.
Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.

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.

Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.
Pirelli MX32 Mid Soft.

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

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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

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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!

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Screenshot

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.

Screenshot

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.
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.

Set to be the largest supercross event in history outside of the USA, over 40,000 people will descend on Marvel Stadium
Set to be the largest supercross event in history outside of the USA, over 40,000 people will descend on Marvel Stadium

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!

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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

  1. Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo
  2. Enea Bastianini Ducati Lenovo (+0.942s
  3. Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati (+1.270s
  4. Aleix Espargaro Aprilia Racing (+1.857s
  5. 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

  1. Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo
  2. Marc Marquez Gresini Ducati (+1.474s)
  3. Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati (+3.810s)
  4. Alex Marquez Gresini Ducati (+5.322s)
  5. Aleix Espargaro Aprilia Racing (+5.753s)

Check out the full MotoGP race results here…

MotoGP Championship Points

  1. Jorge Martin Pramac Ducati – 508
  2. Francesco Bagnaia Ducati Lenovo – 498
  3. Marc Marquez Gresini Ducati – 392
  4. Enea Bastianini Ducati Lenovo – 386
  5. 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

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

Moto2 Championship Points

  1. Ai Ogura MT Helmets – MSI – 274
  2. Aron Canet Fantic Racing – 234
  3. Manuel Gonzalez QJMOTOR Gresini – 195
  4. Sergio Garcia MT Helmets – MSI – 191
  5. 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

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

Moto3 Championship Points

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

Bike Review | 2024 Aprilia RS 457 Test

By
PitBoard
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"On the track the RS 457 is nimble, compliant and controlled under hard cornering and braking".
"On the track the RS 457 is nimble, compliant and controlled under hard cornering and braking".

Learner riders are spoilt for choice these days. I say these days, because it feels like only yesterday that I turned 16 and 9 months and could finally legally ride on the road. The bike choices back then were simply anything under 250cc, nothing like this Aprilia RS 457… Test: Matthew Shields Photos: Dean Walters.

$12,540 (Replica: $12,940) rideaway in Racing Stripes, Opalescent Light and Prismatic Dark.

Most 250s were boring, with the exception of the Kawasaki KR-1S, Aprilia RS250 and Suzuki RGV250, but you needed a full licence to ride those. Roll on a few decades later and the choice for what is an entry-level motorcycle is phenomenal. In a range of capacities, both old and new, new riders can choose from adventure bikes, maxi scooters, cruisers, nakedbikes, tourers, sports-tourers, motards, trailbikes and, of course, sportsbikes. Enter the Aprilia RS457.

Check out our LAMS motorcycle reviews here...

Looking very much like the entry-level, race-replica version of the marque RSV4 superbike, the new RS 457 isn’t just a lookalike sportsbike for those that don’t have the experience or perhaps money to afford the production road racer. Just as with the bigger capacity bikes in the range, Aprilia has put a concerted effort into making this new twin-cylinder sportsbike go as good as it looks.

"But unlike the RS4, Aprilia hasn’t left one aspect of this machine’s performance unfettered."
“But unlike the RS4, Aprilia hasn’t left one aspect of this machine’s performance unfettered.”

Fresh off the back of the launch of the RS 660 (read our RS 660 review here), Aprilia has bookended their sportsbike range with the parallel-twin, 457cc RS 457. Every much looking like the racer-inspired small capacity machine, this isn’t of the ilk of the two-stroke RS 250 – an out-and-out production racer, but more so an evolution of the timid four-stroke RS4 125. But unlike the RS4, Aprilia hasn’t left one aspect of this machine’s performance unfettered.

“The engine is a 270-degree firing order, 457cc parallel-twin that puts out 35kW and 44Nm – with most of that delivered by 3000rpm”…

This is a ground-up, new machine for Aprilia. The engine is a 270-degree firing order, 457cc parallel-twin that puts out 35kW and 44Nm – with most of that delivered by 3000rpm with the design centring around minimising friction (see technical breakout) across various engine components and gearbox. The architecture of the cylinder-heads isn’t too far removed from the RSV4 Aprilia claims, and at a glance it certainly looks that way.

"Just as with the bigger capacity bikes in the range, Aprilia has put a concerted effort into making this new twin-cylinder sportsbike go as good as it looks".
“Just as with the bigger capacity bikes in the range, Aprilia has put a concerted effort into making this new twin-cylinder sportsbike go as good as it looks”.

Although the twin revs out to a 10,500rpm redline, most of the torque is at hand low in the rev range. On the road, it gets away quickly from a standstill with no need for riding the clutch to get the revs up. It pulls through the rev range strongly and the good spread through the six-speed gearbox won’t see you frantically working through the ’box. Out on the open road, the strong bottom-end power means the tight and twisty stuff is fun and at freeway speeds you don’t feel like you are wringing its neck.

"Out on the open road, the strong bottom-end power means the tight and twisty stuff is fun and at freeway speeds you don’t feel like you are wringing its neck".
“Out on the open road, the strong bottom-end power means the tight and twisty stuff is fun and at freeway speeds you don’t feel like you are wringing its neck”.

We also rode at Beckley Park International Raceway – a neat little go-kart track just behind the clubhouse turn of the Geelong Horse Racing venue. With a load of first and second gear corners, with a hard-braking first-gear hairpin, we got a great opportunity to ask the most of the 457’s engine. Just as it was on the road, the power delivery is user friendly with loads of strong low rpm torque the highlight of the package.

The ABS has two settings – both wheels, or front only – allowing riders who can to slide the rear end into corners.
The ABS has two settings – both wheels, or front only – allowing riders who can to slide the rear end into corners.

Here at the track is where the host of electronic goodies, led by the mode selectors, stood out. The three different riding modes – Eco, Sport and Rain – give a pronounced difference in power delivery via the ride-by-wire throttle. The ABS has two settings – both wheels, or front only – allowing riders who can to slide the rear end into corners. While a bi-directional quickshifter is optional, most riders won’t need one.

Traction control is standard fitment on the RS 457 and while I never used it on the track, I got to feel it work doing u-turns on a dirty country back road for the obligatory bike launch photoshoot. Being part of a Bosch system – just like the ABS – it’ll no doubt work well on wet and slippery roads. Like the riding modes, the traction control is switched simply from the switchgear and can be done on the fly. What mode and settings you have is displayed on the big 5-inch TFT dash that looks like it’s straight off a superbike.

The riding position is spacious. Riders of all shapes and sizes – especially those over six-foot – found it roomy.
The riding position is spacious. Riders of all shapes and sizes – especially those over six-foot – found it roomy.

You can tell a lot of refinement has gone into getting the handling characteristics of the RS 457 just right. With preload adjustment at both ends, rolling on 110 and 150-section tyres (just like the RS250 did) and with rake, trail and wheelbase dimensions similar to the rest of the class, the twin-spar aluminium alloy frame is the biggest point of difference. The marketing blurb says Aprilia has used its experience gained through this chassis design in racing to get the RS 457 handling as it is, and it’s hard to argue with.

"You can tell a lot of refinement has gone into getting the handling characteristics of the RS 457 just right".
“You can tell a lot of refinement has gone into getting the handling characteristics of the RS 457 just right”.

On the track the RS 457 is nimble, compliant and controlled under hard cornering and braking. Acceleration doesn’t challenge the relatively basic suspension’s compliance nor the standard fitment rubber. On the more bumpy and unpredictable conditions on the road, the suspension is just as good, and light and precise handling did not give a hint of instability, with a more comprehensive ride needed to make that a given.

"On the track the RS 457 is nimble, compliant and controlled under hard cornering and braking".
“On the track the RS 457 is nimble, compliant and controlled under hard cornering and braking”.

The riding position is spacious. Riders of all shapes and sizes – especially those over six-foot – found it roomy in the saddle, the reach to the handlebars not cramped and the footpegs not crampingly high nor so low that they cause ground clearance issues. Pillion comfort may not be as welcoming, but the reach from the back saddle to the footpegs is adult-sized. All in all, the ride triangle is a balance of comfort and sportiness and one that best suits the intended usage of most RS 457s.

Check out our other Aprilia reviews and content here…

The brakes look every part like top of the line sportsbike kit. A radial mounted four-piston caliper up front looks MotoGP and while it doesn’t say Brembo, it is made by their small motorcycle division ByBre – By Brembo. Braking power is exceptional both front and rear and mated with the switchable Bosch ABS a safe and high-performing package on the road and the track. There is span adjustment available on the brake lever, but not on the clutch which is cable-actuated and light as a feather.

Best thing of all about the RS 457 is that this new machine isn’t all show and no go...
Best thing of all about the RS 457 is that this new machine isn’t all show and no go…

The racer-inspired styling cues don’t stop with the radial-mounted front brake either. The exhaust exiting the bellypan, sleek top triple-clamp design, indicators integrated within the headlight unit, a double-skin look to the fairing, GP-inspired aerodynamic features and the tiny rear tail unit all mimic the big boy racer as it was intended to. Throw in an extra $400 for the MotoGP-inspired Replica colour scheme and you really have a true race replica.

"Aprilia has also built a machine with the handling and engine performance that will keep experienced riders coming back for more".
“Aprilia has also built a machine with the handling and engine performance that will keep experienced riders coming back for more”.

Conclusion

Best thing of all about the RS 457 is that this new machine isn’t all show and no go. With a concerted effort on creating a learner-legal machine that muscles its way to the top of the new entry-level sportsbike pack with the most power and best power-to-weight ratio allowed, Aprilia has also built a machine with the handling and engine performance that will keep experienced riders coming back for more. Check out the Rs 457 in your local Aprilia shop now, and test ride one while you are there…

Matthew Shields tested the RS125 way back when that came out, and he owned an RS250 as well. he rates the RS 457 highly as a LAMS or experienced rider bike...
Matthew Shields tested the RS125 way back when that came out, and he owned an RS250 as well. he rates the RS 457 highly as a LAMS or experienced rider bike…

2024 Aprilia RS457 Tech Talk
Engine

The Aprilia RS 457 is powered by two-cylinder, 457cc, 270-degree, liquid-cooled engine with Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The engine, that shares a lot of its architecture with the RSV4 superbike, has 35kW of peak power at 9400rpm and peak torque of 44Nm at 6700rpm with 82 per cent of that figure on hand from 3000rpm. Teamed with a wet weight of 175kg, the power-to-weight ratio of the RS is hard to beat in the LAMS class.

Unlike the mid-sized RS 660, the 457 engine differs in that a coolant by-pass circuit and blow-by circuit are fully integrated into the engine, with no external piping like the bigger machine has. The gearbox features roller cages like the V4 engines, instead of bushings, to reduce friction while the gearbox lubrication system is integrated into the shifting dropout shafts.

Reciprocating friction is reduced in the engine by using a cylinder offset 6.5mm from the crankshaft, roller bearings instead of bushings for the water pump and countershaft, and piston pins and timing cups with DLC coating. Fracture-split conrods are used with circular bushings and a servo clutch reduces effort at the lever along with a slipper function.

Big service intervals are another attractive point on the twin-cylinder engine while as a function of Euro 5 + emissions compliance, the RSV457 engine shuts down one cylinder on deceleration to both conserve fuel and reduce noise somewhat.

Chassis

The new twin-cylinder RS 457 engine is mounted in a dual-beam cast aluminium frame with the crankcase functioning as a load-bearing element, similarly to the way it is on the RS 660. Up front, the 41mm upside-down forks are preload adjustable, with 120mm of travel, while at the rear, the monoshock is adjustable for preload and has 130mm of travel. The swingarm is made in steel.

The braking system is made by ByBre – a Brembo brand specifically dedicated to small-to-medium displacement motorcycles and scooters – and features a 320mm front disc with a radial-mounted four-piston caliper at the front and a single piston caliper on 220mm disc at the rear. The braking system is aided by a two-channel ABS system with switchable modes – for either both wheels or front wheel only. The 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels mount to a 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tyres.

Electronics

The RS 457 is bustling with a range of tech goodies you don’t see standard on bikes in this class. The LED headlight echoes cues of the Aprilia sportsbike family while the front indicators are integrated into the headlight’s light signature. The dashboard is no less than a 5.0-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) colour instrument cluster, while the switchgear on the handlebars are elegantly backlit.

The Ride-by-Wire throttle system – which Aprilia was the first to introduce both in MotoGP and on production motorcycles – manages the engine with three riding modes that intervene on power, torque and traction control. They are adjustable to three levels on the fly – Eco, Sport and Rain – a can also be disabled. A bi-directional quickshifter is also available as an accessory. The Bosch ABS system has two settings: ABS on both wheels for road usage and ABS front on and rear off, suggested for racetrack use only. Turning off the rear ABS is done by a long press of the riding mode button only when the bike is stationary. Smartphone connectivity (Aprilia MIA) and navigation are also available

APRILIA RS 457 GENUINE ACCESSORIES

A host of genuine accessories are available for the RS457 ranging from bike covers and USB sockets through to racing brake pads and tyre pressure monitoring system. For more information visit www.aprilia.com/au.

Passenger seat cover                                                              $155.85
Adjustable front brake lever                                               $242.20
Adjustable clutch lever                                                          $246.75
Rear brake Lever                                                                           $305.90
Gear lever                                                                                           $248.50
Brake lever protection                                                             $473.40
Aluminium plate holder                                                         $389
USB charging socket                                                                $38.50
Racing brake pads                                                                      $333.25
Rider footpegs                                                                                $364.15
Front axle protector                                                                   $138.50
Helmet lock                                                                                      $71
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)  RS457     $456
High windscreen                                                                          $125
Thermoformed side cases (with holders)              $1154.15
Tank bag                                                                                               $482.50
Lower rider comfort seat                                                      $275
Standard comfort seat                                                           $298
Passenger comfort handle                                                  $128
Outdoor bike cover                                                                    $267.70
Indoor bike cover                                                                         $458.20
Electronic anti-theft                                                                  $287.75
Electronic anti-theft assembly system                    $215.40
MIA device                                                                                         $208.20
MIA device assembly system                                           $73.75
Wheel stickers                                                                               $38.30
Side tank protection stickers                                            $163.85
Central tank protection stickers                                    $66.90
Bi-directional quickshifter                                                  $441.20

2024 Aprilia RS 457 Specifications

Aprilia.com

Price: $12,540 (Replica: $12,940) rideaway
Warranty: Two-years unlimited km
Colours: Prismatic Dark, Opalescent Light and Racing Stripes
Claimed Power: 35kW@9400rpm
Claimed Torque: 44Nm@6700rpm
Kerb Weight: 175kg
Fuel capacity: 13L
Fuel Consumption Claimed: N/A
Fuel Consumption (measured): N/A

Engine: Liquid-cooled, 270-degree parallel twin-cylinder, four-stroke engine with four valves per cylinder, 10.5:1 compression ratio, 69mm x 61.1mm bore x stroke, 457cc, 26mm EFI with Ride-By-Wire throttle Gearbox: Six speed, constant mesh Clutch: Multiplate in oil bath with slipper system

Chassis: Frame: Dual beam cast-aluminium frame
Rake: 24 degrees Trail: 102.4mm
Suspension: 41mm upside-down fork, preload adjustable, 120mm travel (f) steel swingarm, monoshock with adjustable preload, 130mm travel (r) Brakes: 320mm disc, four-piston radial-mounted By-Bre caliper (f), 220mm disc, single-piston By-Bre floating caliper (r) Wheels & Tyres: Aluminium-alloy wheels 3.0 x 17-inch (f) 4.5 x 17-inch (r), Tyres 110/70ZR17 (f) 150/60ZR17 (r)

Dimensions:
Seat height: 800mm
Ground clearance: N/A
Overall width: 760mm
Overall Length: 1983mm
Overall height: 1162mm
Wheelbase: 1349mm

Instruments & Electronics: LED headlight assembly. Engine maps (AEM), dual-channel ABS with anti roll-over system (two maps), traction control (ATC), three riding modes. 5-inch TFT instrument panel. Backlit handlebar controls.

2025 Aprilia RS 457 Gallery

Limited-Edition Kabuto F17 Remy Gardner Helmet In OZ!

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PitBoard
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The Remy Gardner Kabuto Limited Edition F17 GP MIPS helmet is now available in Australia while stocks last. Made from absolute premium materials, this super high end race helmet offers the highest levels of protection while remaining lightweight and well ventilated. 

Pic: Remygardner.com

The F17 Gardner Kabuto features an EPS liner and COOLMAX fully detachable and washable interior liner, is Pinlock ready and has a quick release visor system. Each Remy Gardner Kabuto F17 has its own unique serial number on the side of the helmet, and is ECE 22.06 and FIM approved.

Handmade in Japan, Kabuto helmets are exceptional quality. The F17 has MIPS (Multi-direction Impact Protection System), A.C.T shell construction, Multi-direction aerodynamics, side and top aero ventilation, Emergency System cheek pads, and DEOFACTOR antimicrobial treatment inside.

For road riders, the F17 Remy Gardner Kabuto is glasses-friendly, has intercom attachment space, includes a breath guard and wind shutter, plus the visor has a centre-lock and double axis system. It comes in sizes XS, S, M, L, XL and XXL and retails for $1,499.00. Check out more here at Kabuto Australia.

Pic: Remygardner.com

Check out our BikeReview.com.au reviews and articles on Kabuto helmets here…

ASBK Round Seven Report | Josh Waters makes history!

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Josh Waters is the Australian Superbike champion for a history-making fourth time following a gripping ASBK Round Seven of the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) at The Bend on November 10. Report: ASBK Media/Ed Stratmann

Josh Waters was crowned 2024 Australian Superbike Champion.

It was a super Sunday at The Bend (SA) on November 10, for ASBK Round Seven with the Michelin Supersport, Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup and Nolan Superbike Masters classes all crowning new champions under sensational spring sunshine.

mi-bike insurance Australian Superbike

Josh Waters (McMartin Racing Ducati) and Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) went into the third and final race at The Bend separated by 25pts, but after Jones crashed on lap one the pressure valve was completely released – even a DNF for Waters would have still seen him claim the championship spoils.

Read our ASBK Round Six 2024 Report here…

In true title-winning style, though, Josh Waters still kept pushing hard and finished less than a second behind outgoing champion Troy Herfoss (DesmoSport Ducati) who became the third race winner over the weekend.

Waters’ 2024 championship is now added to his previous Superbike successes in 2009, 2012 and 2017, in what was a triumphant return to The Bend after he came out second best in a similar final round brawl against Herfoss in 2023.

Waters now stands supreme as the most successful rider in the 35-year history of the ASBK Championship, moving ahead of Jones, Herfoss, Shawn Giles, Wayne Maxwell and Glenn Allerton as three-time champions.

“That was bloody awesome! I am so thankful to the McMartin Racing Team, and I’m just so rapt as it’s been a long time since I won a championship,” said a relieved Waters.

“The championships have all been special, but what I’ve been through leading up to this one makes it even more special. Thank you to everyone who supports me.”

Race One

When Jones is in ‘steely resolve’ mode, he’s extremely hard to beat – just the mindset he brought to Saturday’s proceedings as he maintained his 100 per cent record of winning every race when he has finished on the podium this season.

It wasn’t a walk in the park by any stretch though, taking two attempts to pass Waters on the final lap before completing the slender 0.180-second victory, while Arthur Sissis (Stop and Seal Yamaha) was a brilliant third as he continues to prosper in a new environment.

Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) took pole position with an impressive 1:50:487s. And won Race 1.

Waters, as always, was gracious in defeat, but questioned whether he had made the right tyre choice.

“I went with a different option tyre in race one, which I personally didn’t like, but it was a safer option,” said Waters. “But Mike and Arthur rode great races, so congratulations to those two. Two more races to go!”

Behind Sissis, Friday fast man Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) outlasted Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati) after a close battle, with Penrite Racing Yamaha teammates Max Stauffer and Cameron Dunker sixth and seventh. John Lytras (Yamaha), Superbike rookie Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Yamaha) and Ryan Yanko (Addicted to Track Yamaha) saw out the top 10.

Pearson still remained a mathematical championship chance, but it would have taken major Waters and Jones meltdowns on Sunday for him to get a look in.

Meanwhile, defending Superbike champion Troy Herfoss (DesmoSport Ducati) – who had been building nicely into the round after a long time off the Panigale V4R – crashed out of third spot on lap four.

Race One Results

  1. Mike Jones
  2. Josh Waters (+0.180)
  3. Arthur Sissis (+3.736)
  4. Anthony West (+6.426)
  5. Broc Pearson (+6.752)

Race Two

After Jones got the job done in race one on Saturday to fire a ‘I’m not giving up without a fight’ warning shots across Waters’ bows, Waters’ Sunday morning retort was emphatic as he won the shortened seven-lapper after the first attempt was red-flagged when Superbike rookie Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Yamaha) went down. The crash put the two-time Australian Supersport champion out for the balance of the day.

Josh Waters (McMartin Racing) claimed a magnificent victory In race two.

In the restart, Waters wasn’t in the mood for power sharing as he led from the front and, just when it appeared he was on the cusp of winning the championship with one race to spare, Jones speared up the inside of Herfoss on the final turn to finish second.

That meant the gap between the pair was 25pts, leaving a flicker of hope for Jones that if he won the final race and Waters was a DNF, the Yamaha man would win the championship based on a season race-winning countback.

Meanwhile, Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) was fourth in race two, followed by Arthur Sissis (Stop and Seal Yamaha) and Max Stauffer (Penrite Racing Yamaha).

Race Two Results

  1. Josh Waters
  2. Mike Jones (+0.435)
  3. Troy Herfoss (+0.496)
  4. Anthony West (+1.787)
  5. Arthur Sissis (+2.460)

Race Three

It all boiled down to the final race of the season, but the tension was only fleeting after Jones crashed out at turn 13 on lap one and was unable to remount.

Waters was initially unaware that Jones had exited stage left, but he was soon made aware by his team as he eventually settled into second place behind Herfoss and in front of Sissis.

And that’s how the top three finished in the 11-lapper, just over a second apart, while top rookie Cameron Dunker (Penrite Racing Yamaha) was fourth from West and early leader, Pearson.

Herfoss was the sixth separate Pirelli Superbike winner in 2024, while Waters’ 2-1-2 scorecard at The Bend saw him the round winner from Sissis (3-5-3), West (4-4-5) and Jones (1-2-DNF).

Race Three Results

  1. Troy Herfoss
  2. Josh Waters (+0.801)
  3. Arthur Sissis (+1.031)
  4. Cameron Dunker (+4.688)
  5. Anthony West (+5.124)

Championship Points

  1. Josh Waters – 321.5 Points
  2. Mike Jones – 276.5 Points
  3. Broc Pearson – 264.5 Points
  4. Max Stauffer – 205 Points
  5. Anthony West – 198.5 Points

Michelin Supersport

The news we were all expecting in Michelin Supersport came to fruition on Sunday morning when Nahlous played it smart to wrap up the championship after a trouble-free ride into sixth position.

The 18-year-old has produced a magnificent 2024 campaign, which began with a clean sweep at round one way back in February. He then continued to rack up the podiums and points with plenty of front-running zeal, despite being challenged from all directions in a crack field of emerging superstars.

“I can’t thank my whole team enough for what it has done all year,” said Nahlous. “To be in this position today is quite amazing. I’m just over the moon and, for everyone who has supported me during the season, thank you very much.”

Nahlous finished fifth overall at The Bend with his 4-6-5 scorecard, behind Stop and Seal Yamaha teammates Archie McDonald (1-1-3) and Jack Mahaffy (3-2-1), Olly Simpson (Yamaha, 2-4-2) and Tom Bramich (Yamaha, 6-4-4).

Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha) secured the top step of the 2024 Australian SuperSport Championship.

The gregarious McDonald was the big championship improver, leapfrogging from fifth to second at The Bend (28pts behind Nahlous), while Simpson dropped back to third (2pts behind McDonald).

Meanwhile, Mahaffy lifted his intensity throughout, and in the final race he cleared off to win by over three seconds.

Mahaffy also won the three-round FIM Oceania Circuit Racing Championship, where points were accrued at three rounds of the Michelin Supersport title in the second half of the season. That period corresponded with a purple patch of form for Mahaffy, who claimed the Oceania spoils from Simpson and McDonald.

Round Results

  1. Archie Mcdonald – 68 Points
  2. Jack Mahaffy – 63 Points
  3. Olly Simpson – 57 Points
  4. Tom Bramich – 50 Points
  5. Jonathan Nahlous – 48 Points

Championship Points

  1. Jonathan Nahlous – 286 Points
  2. Archie Mcdonald – 258 Points
  3. Olly Simpson – 256 Points
  4. Tom Bramich – 145 Points
  5. Jake Farnsworth – 233 Points

Race and Road Supersport 300/Shop Yamaha R3 Cup

It was an enthralling day in the Race and Road Supersport 300 and ShopYamaha R3 Cup classes, with Josh Newman (Kawasaki) wrapping up the former in race two and Valentino Knezovic (Yamaha) only getting peace of mind in the last race of the day!

While returning international Cameron Swain (Yamaha) was the undisputed master across the weekend – six wins from as many starts in his one-round cameo – it was Newman who kicked off the major celebrations when he finished a solid eighth in Supersport 300 race two to win the crown.

“It is very surreal at the moment, but I’d just like to thank everyone for all the hard work that they have put in,”  Newman stated.

The 2024 Australian SuperSport 300 Champion – Josh Newman!

“In race two, I really gave my all, but I also wanted to stay out of trouble. In the last few laps I lost the lead group, so I just cruised home and on the last lap I knew it was a done deal.”

Newman finished the championship ahead of Knezovic (379 to 335pts) and Harrison Watts (Kawasaki, 326), while Swain won the round from Jordan Simpson (Yamaha) and Newman.

Valentino Knezovic took the win for the Australian R3 Cup.

The R3 Cup was even more of a thriller, with Knezovic outlasting a fast-finishing Will Nassif by 2pts, with Simpson another 2pts back in third.

Race and Road Supersport 300 Championship Points

  1. Joshua Newman – 379 Points
  2. Valentino Knezovic – 335 Points
  3. Harrison Watts – 326 Points
  4. Jordan Simpson – 317 Points
  5. Will Nassif – 297 Points

ShopYamaha R3 Cup Championship Points

  1. Valentino Knezovic – 171 Points
  2. Will Nassif – 169 Points
  3. Jordan Simpson – 167 Points
  4. William Hunt – 127 Points
  5. John Pelgrave – 101 Points

Nolan Superbike Masters

A quite extraordinary set of circumstances in the Nolan Superbike Masters finale, with the two hitherto dominant figures – Yamaha pilots Keo Watson and Jack Passfield – both out with injury and mechanical woes respectively, which opened the door for Ryan Taylor to come from the clouds to win the title.

Taylor was third in all three races at The Bend behind fellow Suzuki pilots Alex Phillis and David Johnson, which was enough to win the title on 123pts from Watson (115) and Passfield (110).

Phillis, who was a class above in the finale, ended on a fast-finishing 98.5pts behind Michael Berti Mendez (Ducati, 109).

The class winners were Mendez (Period 5 F1), Ross Dobson (Suzuki, Period 5 Unlimited), Taylor (Period 6 Formula 1300) and Phillip Burke (Honda, Period 6 Formula 750cc).

Championship Points

  1. Ryan Taylor – 123 Points
  2. Keo Watson – 115 Points
  3. Jack Passfield – 110 Points
  4. Michael Berti Mendez – 109 Points
  5. Alex Phillis – 98.5 Points

bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup

As expected, 13-year-old Queenslander Hunter Corney is the latest champion in the FIM-backed and Dorna Sports-endorsed Road to MotoGP pathways program, which has enjoyed heightened Australian championship status for the first time.

Corney’s five-second win in race one – a gargantuan margin in OJC terms – on Saturday guaranteed him championship success, and he went onto win the round with 1-5-2 results ahead of Connor Lewis (5-1-4) and New Zealander Haydn Fordyce, the latter making a one-off OJC return to help bolster New Zealand’s stocks in the corresponding FIM Oceania Trans-Tasman Challenge. To underscore the developmental credentials of the OJC, Corney also competed as a wildcard in the final round of the 2024 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU Asia-Pacific Championship at The Bend, embracing the challenge with round-winning first and second placings!

Meanwhile, back in OJC pastures, Lewis and Rossi McAdam won their first OJC races to round out The Bend program – and in much more familiar wafer-thin winning margins for the Yamaha YZF-R15 riders. The final standings saw Corney a runaway winner on 411pts from Ethan Johnson (319), Hunter Charlett (267), Nikolas Lazos (249) and McAdam (246), while Australia won the FIM Oceania Trans-Tasman Challenge over New Zealand by 42pts (257 to 215).

All detailed Computime ASBK Championship class results are here.

ASBK Round Seven Gallery

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