MRW Issue 56

ISSUE 56

S H O W C A S I N G

S A

R

I D E R S

SA RIDER

WATCH

A R O U N D

W O R L D

T H E

Himalayas

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE

On the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

SUZUKI LOOK

FIRST

GSX-R1000R

Suzuki’s Icon Returns, Sharper Than Ever!

Riding the

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Issue 56 of Motor Rider World,

South Africa’s premier—and still the only—

digital motorcycle magazine, where passion,

performance, and petrol run deep in our

veins. This month’s issue is absolutely

packed, with a mix of fresh metal, racing

action, and stories that dig into the very soul

of riding.

We start off with something that’s bound to

get the off-road crowd talking—the all-new

2026 KTM Enduro range. KTM has made

bold moves for 2026, and from what we’ve

seen, this line-up is set to shake up the

enduro market in a big way. From sharper

handling to tweaks that refine their raceproven

formula, there’s a lot to unpack.

to impress us with every kilometre—proof that

big sport-touring muscle and comfort can go

hand in hand.

For the history buffs and switch-up fans,

we’ve got a fascinating feature on riders who

have made the leap from World Superbikes

to MotoGP—some thriving, others… not so

much. And then there’s our big feature this

month: Riding the Himalayas. Thanks to

Royal Enfield, we were sent to India to join

the Moto Himalaya 2025 Tour, taking the new

Himalayan 450 deep into the high passes,

remote valleys, and jaw-dropping scenery of

the Himalayas. It was an adventure we won’t

forget, and we’ve brought the full story and

images to you.

CONTACT

DETAILS

EDITOR/OWNER

Shaun Portman

072 260 9525

shaunpotman@gmail.com

Copyright © Moto Rider World:

All rights reserved. No part of this

publication may be reproduced,

distributed, or transmitted in any

form or by any means, including

photocopying, articles, or other

methods, without the prior written

permission of the publisher.

Photo: E. Tschann

On the road-going side of things, Suzuki

has dropped one of their most anticipated

updates in years—the 2026 GSX-R1000R.

It’s got a few key changes that bring fresh life

to the legendary Gixxer, and it’s a welcome

evolution for a bike that’s been a cornerstone

of Suzuki’s performance line-up. Speaking

of new arrivals, HJC’s brand-new RPHA

60 adventure helmet has finally landed in

South Africa, bringing premium features and

rugged touring readiness to our market.

In our news section, we cast our eyes

towards India, where Triumph has just

launched the all-new Thruxton 400. This

machine is set to hit international markets

very soon, and it promises to carry that

modern-classic café racer spirit to a

new level. We also dip into the World

Superbike paddock to check on the

latest developments in the Silly Season—

contracts, rumours, and big moves that

could reshape 2026.

Closer to home, we put the spotlight on the

Suzuka 8 Hours, where South African riders

Steven Odendaal and Sheridan Morais

flew the flag high. We’ve also got British

Superbike action from Brands Hatch, with

the next round already looking spicy. Our

long-term Suzuki GSX-S1000GX continues

Our Dunlop Racing Pages are packed with

coverage from MotoAmerica at Virginia

International Raceway, where our South

African contingent is making waves. Matthew

Scholtz now leads the MotoAmerica

Supersport Championship, Cameron

Petersen is pushing hard in the same class,

and Dominic Doyle had a standout ride in the

Twins Cup. We also bring you the latest from

the MXGP of Flanders, as the 2025 MXGP

and MX2 seasons continue to deliver some

of the most competitive and unpredictable

racing we’ve seen in years.

Bikes, racing, gear, travel—Issue 56 has it all.

So pour yourself a coffee, settle in, and enjoy

the ride with us.

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Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations!

The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.

THE NEXT ERA IN

HARDCORE

ADVENTURE TRAVEL

with the new KTM 390 ADVENTURE R

FIND OUT MORE AT KTM.COM

NEWS DESK

ORANGE

RECHARGED

THE 2026 KTM

ENDURO RANGE

REWRITES THE RULES

The trails have been missing their trademark hit of orange,

but KTM is back in full force for 2026 with an Enduro range

that doesn’t just refresh the line-up—it completely resets

the benchmark. After a quieter 2025, KTM has come out

swinging with a bold new assault on the off-road world,

bringing seven race-ready models to the table. The latest

EXC and XC-W machines are sleeker, sharper, and more

dialled-in than ever, developed with one goal in mind: to

conquer any terrain, at any level, in any conditions.

This new generation brings more than just refinements—it

brings a shift in mindset. The 2-stroke models, long-time

favourites of purists and hard-enduro heroes alike, now

carry updated naming to better reflect their competitionbred

DNA. The KTM 125 XC-W and KTM 250 XC-W mark

the transition away from the traditional EXC badge, signaling

a laser focus on pure off-road performance. Meanwhile,

the KTM 300 EXC stands proud as the sole EURO5+

homologated 2-stroke in the line-up, retaining its road-legal

status and broadening its potential as both a race weapon

and an all-terrain adventure tool.

NEWS DESK

On the 4-stroke front, the tried-and-tested

KTM 250 EXC-F, 350 EXC-F, 450 EXC-F,

and the mighty 500 EXC-F return with a

vengeance, all benefitting from sweeping

updates across the board. Engine

performance is sharper, power delivery

is cleaner, and the rideability has been

enhanced thanks to KTM’s continued

refinement of its fuel-injected technology.

The two-strokes boast the latest TBI

(Throttle Body Injection) system, offering

the kind of precise throttle response and

emissions compliance that keeps the fun

high and the fuss low.

The platform itself is a masterclass in

modern enduro engineering. The hydroformed,

laser-cut, and robot-welded

chassis serves as the perfect backbone

for KTM’s signature combination of agility,

strength, and lightweight design. Every

angle of flex, every gram of unsprung

mass, and every millimetre of balance

has been measured, tested, and tuned

to deliver a surgically precise riding

experience—whether you’re tackling

extreme Hard Enduro or carving through

singletrack trails.

What truly sets the 2026 range apart is its

relentless focus on component quality.

From forged triple clamps and Neken bars

to Brembo braking systems and Keihin

throttle bodies, these bikes come straight

out of the box ready to race. Even the

smallest contact points—ODI lock-on grips,

high-strength GIANT alloy rims, and a newgeneration

LED headlight—are chosen with

one thing in mind: no compromise.

Suspension gets a major leap forward,

too. The latest WP XACT 48 mm Closed

Cartridge fork features revised internal

damping, lighter and shorter springs,

NEWS DESK

and a new hydro stop design. Not only is

the front end now 200 grams lighter, but

the improvement in front-wheel feel and

confidence under load is immediately

noticeable. Paired with the proven WP XPLOR

PDS rear shock, now with fine-tuned internal

updates, the entire suspension system

delivers better traction, more comfort, and

less maintenance—perfect for long days in the

saddle or tight technical battles on the course.

Beyond the headline changes, KTM’s

attention to detail continues to shine. A

revised radiator cap now features a standard

thread for easier access, while radiator fans

are now standard on the KTM 300 EXC and

all four-stroke EXC-F models to improve

cooling under heavy load. A protective cap

has been added to the CPC fuel connector

for greater resistance to debris and water

ingress, enhancing durability in the harshest

environments.

Visually, the 2026 models take the

unmistakable KTM aesthetic to new heights.

A bolder, deeper orange now dominates the

plastics, accented by flashes of red on the

fork guards and redesigned tank spoilers

that not only look aggressive but aid in

airflow and cooling. A high-grip black seat

cover complements the fresh look, while

textured materials on the frame guards, bar

pad, and spoilers boost control and style.

To finish it off, the Maxxis MaxxEnduro rear

tyres now feature a new softer compound for

improved hookup in varied terrain.

The 2026 KTM Enduro range is more than

just a line-up—it’s a legacy continued.

Forged in the fires of global competition,

refined by engineers who understand

what it means to win, and built for riders

who never stop pushing, this is the most

focused and capable Enduro range KTM

has ever released. From club-level riders to

championship contenders, there’s now a

bike in the line-up that not only meets your

expectations but dares you to exceed them.

As always, the range is supported by a wide

arsenal of KTM PowerParts and PowerWear,

offering every opportunity to tailor your

bike and gear to your riding style, whether

that means full factory flair or functional

enhancements.

The 2026 KTM Enduro models will begin

arriving at authorised KTM dealers from

August 2025, with the highly anticipated

KTM 300 EXC landing in October. For full

details and to find your nearest dealer, visit

KTM.com.

NEWS DESK

GSX-R1000R: SUZUKI’S

ICON RETURNS,

SHARPER THAN EVER

Suzuki has reignited the fire of its flagship

superbike with the return of the GSX-

R1000R to the UK and EU markets, now

fully updated to meet Euro5+ emissions

regulations. But while this new model ticks

all the boxes for environmental compliance,

make no mistake — the soul of the GSX-R

remains untouched. In fact, it’s sharper,

faster, and more capable than ever before. It

arrives not only with a host of performance

upgrades but also dressed in stunning 40th

Anniversary liveries that pay homage to four

decades of GSX-R supremacy.

At the heart of this next-generation GSX-

R1000R lies the same fiercely capable

999.8cc inline-four engine that’s long

defined the platform, still utilising Suzuki’s

NEWS DESK

MotoGP-derived variable valve timing system,

first seen on the championship-winning GSX-

RR prototype that carried Joan Mir to the 2020

world title. But dig deeper and you’ll find that

almost every internal component has been

revised. Forged aluminium pistons now feature

reshaped crowns and DLC-coated wrist pins,

while a stronger crankshaft with 37mm journals,

newly engineered crankcases, and high-tensile

chrome-molybdenum con-rods come together to

create a powerplant that’s not just cleaner, but

tougher and more race-focused.

The camshafts and valve profiles have been

reworked for optimal lift and duration, exhaust

valves have grown from 24mm to 25mm

for improved flow, and throttle bodies have

expanded to 48mm for better air intake. Fuel

delivery has been refined with a more efficient

pump and revised injectors to ensure cleaner

combustion and smoother throttle response.

Despite stricter regulations, the engine’s output

remains ferocious — 195PS at 13,200rpm and

110Nm of torque at 11,000rpm — numbers that

maintain the GSX-R’s place in the upper echelon

of superbikes.

Meeting Euro5+ standards meant more than just

emissions tweaks — Suzuki has also completely

redesigned the exhaust system. A more compact

silencer, now reduced from 8.3 litres to 5.5 litres,

combines with a repositioned catalytic converter

for quicker warm-up and improved emissions

control. The changes result in weight savings

and a snappier throttle feel, all while keeping that

unmistakable GSX-R bark intact.

NEWS DESK

The chassis remains true to the tried-andtested

GSX-R formula, centred around a

lightweight aluminium twin-spar frame and a

braced aluminium swingarm. The high-spec

Showa Balance Free Forks up front and a

Balance Free Rear Cushion Lite shock at the

rear return to deliver race-bred suspension

feel, offering precision, feedback and control

whether you’re on the road or slicing through

corners on track. Brembo monobloc calipers

bite onto 320mm front discs, and even the

ABS module has been trimmed down, now

weighing 51 grams less.

A new and immediately noticeable addition is

the set of dry carbon fibre winglets integrated

into the front fairing. Developed in partnership

with Suzuki’s CN Challenge race team, these

aerodynamic appendages aren’t just for show.

Carefully shaped and hollowed to avoid adding

excess weight, they create front-end downforce

at high speed, reducing lift and increasing

straight-line stability without compromising the

bike’s nimble handling.

Electronics have seen a major overhaul

too. At the core is a new six-axis IMU that

works in tandem with a completely updated

suite of rider aids. The standout addition is

Suzuki’s new Roll Torque Control System —

an evolution of traction control that predicts

and adjusts torque output before rear wheel

slip even occurs. The system adds another

layer of safety and control, particularly when

exiting corners or dealing with uneven grip

levels. Riders still have access to a full suite of

modern electronics, including a bi-directional

quickshifter, anti-wheelie control, ride-by-wire

throttle, lean-sensitive ABS, launch control,

slope-dependent braking, and Suzuki’s low-

NEWS DESK

RPM assist and easy-start functionality. A new

lightweight lithium-ion battery not only improves

starting performance but also saves valuable

grams in a motorcycle already optimised for

performance.

But it’s not just what’s under the fairings

that grabs attention — Suzuki has taken the

opportunity to celebrate 40 years of GSX-R

heritage in style. The 2025 GSX-R1000R will be

available in three classic livery options, each

echoing iconic race colours from the brand’s

storied past. Riders can choose from the

timeless blue and white, a bold red and white,

or a striking yellow and matte blue combination.

Each version wears a commemorative 40th

Anniversary badge on the tank and fairing,

a retro ‘R’ logo on the belly pan, and GSX-R

branding on the seat and silencer. The engine

covers now come finished in a sleek grey,

rounding off a look that balances nostalgia with

modern racebike aggression.

The timing of this rebirth couldn’t be more

symbolic. Just ahead of the 2025 Suzuka 8

Hours — a race where the GSX-R1000 has

claimed 15 victories since 2001 — Suzuki has

reaffirmed its commitment to top-tier racing.

Fittingly, the updated GSX-R1000R was recently

unveiled beneath the iconic Suzuki A Tower, and

shortly thereafter, Suzuki secured a strong thirdplace

podium finish. This isn’t just a return — it’s

a statement. The GSX-R1000R is back, sharper

than ever, and ready to prove that the GSX-R

name still belongs at the sharp end of both the

racetrack and the road.

www.suzukimotorcycle.co.za/services

NEWS DESK

THE ALL-NEW HJC RPHA 60

ARRIVES IN SOUTH AFRICA

The long-awaited HJC RPHA 60 has officially

landed on South African soil, now available through

selected Powered by AutoCycle Center dealers

nationwide. HJC’s latest offering in the dual-sport

segment, the RPHA 60, is a helmet engineered for

riders who thrive on the freedom of both tarmac

and trail. Whether you’re navigating open highways

or winding your way through technical off-road

terrain, the RPHA 60 is built to adapt—delivering

protection, versatility, and long-distance comfort in

equal measure.

Developed with HJC’s advanced Premium

Integrated Matrix (PIM) shell technology, the RPHA

60 combines aerospace-grade materials with

motorsport-inspired construction. The result is a

lightweight yet incredibly strong shell designed

to offer superior impact resistance without

compromising rider comfort. Its aerodynamic peak

visor has been carefully refined to improve stability

at speed, while the helmet’s overall profile ensures

optimal airflow in varying conditions.

Fully compatible with the SMART HJC 2nd

Generation Bluetooth systems co-developed with

SENA, the RPHA 60 is ready for the demands of

modern adventure riding. Certified to meet the

latest ECE 22.06 safety standard and backed by

HJC’s five-year warranty, it represents the pinnacle

of dual-sport helmet design.

The RPHA 60 is more than just a helmet—it’s

a gateway to new roads, remote trails, and

untamed adventure. South African riders can

now experience this cutting-edge lid first-hand by

visiting their nearest Powered by AutoCycle Center.

For more information or to locate your closest

dealer, visit poweredbyautocycle.co.za.

Inside, the RPHA 60 is fitted with a moisturewicking,

antibacterial liner that’s fully removable

and washable. Contoured cheek pads provide a

precise fit, and subtle details such as eyeglass

channels and reflective inserts show the attention

given to comfort and practicality. A redesigned sun

shield system allows riders to adjust the internal

visor to three different positions, offering improved

control in changing light conditions. Tool-free

peak removal makes transitioning from off-road to

touring setups effortless, and emergency pull tabs

offer added peace of mind.

NEWS DESK

Rainey’s bond with Yamaha runs deep. He

began his racing career aboard a TZR250 in

1984 as part of the Kenny Roberts Yamaha team,

and over the years remained loyal to the brand.

Since his accident, he’s ridden just three times —

always with Yamaha beneath him.

The most recent occasion was nothing short

of historic. During Round 5 of the 2025

MotoAmerica Championship at Laguna Seca

Raceway, Rainey participated in a parade

lap, joined by fellow racers and officers from

the California Highway Patrol. For this special

moment, he rode a uniquely modified Yamaha

XSR900 GP, developed through a collaboration

between Yamaha Motor Europe and Yamaha

Motor USA.

At its heart, the XSR900 GP is a modern

motorcycle draped in retro racing heritage. But this

one was crafted with a singular mission: to allow

Rainey to ride once more. Yamaha had always

planned to gift him one of the first production

units — but instead of handing over a stock model,

the team made bespoke modifications, aiming to

recreate the spirit of the YZR500 while adapting it

to Rainey’s physical needs.

Though Yamaha hasn’t detailed all the

modifications, they likely mirror those made

to the YZR500 he rode at Goodwood in 2022:

relocated rear brake and gear controls, custom

seating position, and potentially enhanced

hand controls. The bike’s design pays tribute to

Rainey’s glory days, featuring black wheels, a

black frame, red-and-white livery, and his iconic

number 2 emblazoned on the fairings.

Beneath the nostalgic aesthetics lies a

thoroughly modern machine. The XSR900 GP

RACING LEGEND WAYNE RAINEY

RIDES AGAIN ON SPECIALLY

PREPPED YAMAHA XSR900 GP

Wayne Rainey may no longer be lining up on

starting grids, but his name still echoes through

the halls of motorcycle racing history. A threetime

500cc World Champion and Daytona 200

winner, the American legend left an indelible

mark on the sport before a tragic crash in 1993

at the Italian Grand Prix left him paralyzed from

the chest down.

Despite the devastating end to his professional

racing career, Rainey never turned his back on

motorcycles. Today, he serves as president of

MotoAmerica, the organization behind the AMA

Superbike Series, and remains a vital figure in

the racing world.

And remarkably, from time to time, Rainey still

rides.

With the help of specially adapted bikes, Rainey

has taken to the track at high-profile events like

the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where he

famously rode a modified Yamaha YZR500 — a

faithful tribute to the machine he raced during his

final championship-winning season in 1992.

NEWS DESK

is powered by Yamaha’s 890cc CP3 inline-three

engine, paired with a six-speed constant mesh

gearbox. But for Rainey, the bike was further

equipped with Yamaha’s Automated Manual

Transmission (AMT) — a system introduced

just last year that allows for clutchless shifting,

making it ideal for adaptive riders.

This ride wasn’t just symbolic — it was a

testament to Rainey’s unbreakable spirit,

Yamaha’s dedication to its racing heritage, and

the incredible fusion of modern engineering with

timeless passion.

NEWS DESK

At the heart of the Thruxton 400 beats Triumph’s

TR-Series 398cc single-cylinder engine,

liquid-cooled and tuned for punchy real-world

performance. Delivering 42 PS at 9,000 rpm and

37.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, it combines

lively acceleration with an engaging, responsive

feel—whether carving through twisties or cruising

through the city.

The hybrid spine/perimeter tubular steel frame

is paired with premium 43mm Big Piston upsidedown

forks up front and a gas monoshock with

external reservoir at the rear, giving the Thruxton

400 a planted, agile ride. Lightweight 17” cast

alloy wheels and sporty ergonomics contribute to

sharp handling and confident control.

Classic in looks, modern in tech—the Thruxton

400 features ride-by-wire throttle, switchable

traction control, ABS, and a slip & assist clutch

for a smoother ride. A retro-style analogue

speedometer with integrated multi-function LCD

screen blends old-school charm with useful

information at a glance.

Timeless style. Modern soul. Pure café racer.

Experience the new Triumph Thruxton 400—

crafted to stand out, engineered to perform.

Visit your nearest Triumph dealer, enquire today

and rediscover the legend.

TRIUMPH THRUXTON 400 –

THE RETURN OF A LEGEND

The Triumph Thruxton 400 is a modern-day

homage to the golden era of café racers—bringing

together timeless racing style with today’s

technology and performance. Built for real roads

and inspired by Triumph’s rich racing heritage, the

Thruxton 400 captures the soul of the original café

racer, wrapped in a lightweight and responsive

modern package.

From its unmistakable silhouette to the beautifully

engineered details, the Thruxton 400 turns heads

wherever it goes. The low-slung clip-on bars,

sculpted tank, minimalist tail, and upswept sports

silencer create the classic racer stance—while

modern craftsmanship ensures this is no mere

replica.

NEWS DESK

SILLY SEASON FOR 2026: BAUTISTA

AND REA’S FUTURES UNKNOWN,

FACTORY TEAM RENEWALS START

TO FORM NEXT YEAR’S GRID

Several more questions about the grid for the

2026 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship

have been answered. The grid is slowly coming

together piece by piece, however a handful of

high-profile rider’s futures are still up in the air.

The announcements keep rolling in as the months

progress with factory seats and Independent

rides alike starting to be secured, but who’s going

where for 2026?

CONFIRMED FOR 2026: Bulega one of a

handful announced for next year…

The first riders to be announced for 2026 were

the bimota by Kawasaki Racing Duo of Alex

Lowes and Axel Bassani, who had their futures

announced heading into the Czech Round in

mid-May, with the pair being secured for next

season. Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) is

also contracted for next year at the Independent

Ducati-powered Motocorsa Racing outfit, having

signed with the team for 2025 and 2026 when

he joined them. Beyond that, the make-up of the

grid is unknown with the majority of the grid out

of contract. Between Most and Misano, it was

confirmed that Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus

Yamaha) would stay with Yamaha for 2026 and

2027. Ahead of his home round, Nicolo Bulega

(Aruba.it Racing - Ducati) was announced as

having signed a one-year contract with the Aruba.

it Racing – Ducati squad to take him through to

the end of the 2026 campaign. Elsewhere, on the

same day as Bulega’s renewal, it was announced

that ‘El Turco’ would join Pramac Racing for 2026.

American rider Garrett Gerloff will be staying

in green, the Texan putting pen to paper on a

one-year deal that will see him remain in green

through 2026. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS

Racing Team) will remain in place for 2026 and

2027, having signed a new two-year deal with

his Marc VDS Ducati squad. In the build-up to

Donington, it was confirmed that Yari Montella

(Barni Spark Racing Team) would stay with

Barni Ducati for a second season in 2026. Remy

Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team)

was the next domino to fall when he renewed his

two-year deal with his Yamaha team, securing

his future through 2027. Shortly after, Gardner’s

teammate was confirmed with Stefano Manzi

(Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) making the move

to WorldSBK for two seasons.

OUT OF CONTRACT: a lot of riders’ futures up

in the air

While ten riders have been confirmed for 2026,

that means most haven’t – including Champions

and title contenders. Looking up the grid, six-time

Champion Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) is

out of contract. At Honda HRC, both Iker Lecuona

and Xavi Vierge have shown good pace in 2025

and will hope that secures them a spot for 2026.

Dominique Aegerter is still searching for a ride,

but this will not be with GRT Yamaha, although

Yamaha’s Niccolo Canepa did state they were

exploring the possibility to keep him within the

Yamaha family, as is Michael van der Mark (ROKiT

BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team), who is also yet

to have his future confirmed.

NEWS DESK

KISKA.COM Photo: R. Schedl

In terms of independent riders, everyone bar

Vickers, Montella and Sam Lowes, is out of

contract for 2026, including race winners Danilo

Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) and Andrea

Iannone (Team Pata GoEleven). As we typed this

official confirmation of Petrucci joining BMW has

now come through. More on that later.

WHAT’S BEEN SAID SO FAR: “I can see that

they believe in the project, and they also

believe in me”

The Czech Round is where talk of the future

started ramping up and several riders spoke

about 2026. Bautista announced his intention to

race in 2026 but is waiting for an answer from the

team. However, a month later at Misano, Bautista

confirmed that, while he’d spoken to the team to

take up the option, they wouldn’t be taking up

their side. He said: “I communicated to the team

that, from my side, I was happy and wanted to

continue because I felt that, even with the rules,

we’re working and arriving at a good performance.

Then, Ducati said from their side, they don’t want

to accept the conditions we signed so they broke

the agreement; that’s all I can say because if you

want to know more about this, you have to ask

Ducati. I’m free for next year.” Rea also spoke

about his future at Most, giving a one-word answer

when asked if there was an update: “No”.

at the factory BMW squad with Michael van der

Mark yet to put pen to paper. The MotoGP rider

market is also in full swing, but the key focus point

with Toprak’s move for 2026 is Pramac Yamaha:

current rider Jack Miller was signed on a deal

for 2025, while teammate Miguel Oliveira has a

contract until the end of 2026.

Confirmed 2026 grid so far

•Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team – Alex Lowes

and Axel Bassani

•Motocorsa Racing – Ryan Vickers

•Pata Maxus Yamaha – Andrea Locatelli and ?

•Aruba.it Racing – Ducati – Nicolo Bulega and ?

•Kawasaki Racing Team – Garrett Gerloff

•ELF Marc VDS Racing Team – Sam Lowes

•Barni Spark Racing Team – Yari Montella and ?

•GYTR GRT Yamaha Racing Team – Remy

Gardner and Stefano Manzi

•BMW Motorrad - Danilio Petrucci and ?

FOR WHEN

MOTHER

NATURE

SAYS NO

Speaking after the Hungarian Round, Bautista

stated the door was not closed with Ducati but

there had been no offer. For Rea, his last update

also came in Hungary, when he said he “has

some options” but will understand more in the

summer break.

RAZGATLIOGLU’S MOVE: the knock-on effect…

Reigning Champion Razgatlioglu’s move to

MotoGP comes with a big knock-on effect, in

both WorldSBK and MotoGP. Starting with his

current paddock, it means two seats are available

sTOP

GROWINg UP

WITH THE NEW

KTM 390 ENDURO R

Mother nature saying no? No problem. The KTM 390 ENDURO R

is a machine that can do it all. On-road commuting or forging your

path through overgrown trails. It’s time to stop growing up!



NEWS DESK

FACTORY SEAT SECURED: PETRUCCI

MOVES TO BMW FOR 2026

WORLDSBK CAMPAIGN

Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) will

switch manufacturers for the 2026 MOTUL FIM

Superbike World Championship. After three

seasons with his Barni Ducati outfit, ‘Petrux’ will

hop on the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK

Team’s machines next season as he’s secured

a factory seat in WorldSBK; something he

has previously said he wanted. Petrucci’s

teammate is yet to be confirmed at the German

manufacturer’s outfit.

THROUGH THE RANKS: a formidable rider in

STK600 and STK1000

Petrucci’s rise to being a winner in both

WorldSBK and MotoGP started in his STK600

days, competing in 2009 for his first full season

and finishing seventh before improving to fourth

in 2010. That secured him a move to STK1000

where ‘Petrux’ really shone. Ninth in his maiden

season with Team Pedercini on the Kawasaki ZX

10R, the Italian moved to Barni Ducati for 2011 –

where their relationship would blossom. Four wins

and seven podiums in that season meant Petrucci

finished runner-up to Davido Giugliano by just two

points, and his performances meant a move to

MotoGP beckoned.

TWO-TIME GRAND PRIX WINNER: ‘Petrux’

victorious in Ducati red

Petrucci’s first foray into Grand Prix racing came

with Ioda for three seasons, where he scored 70

points for them. Strong performances secured

him a move to Pramac Racing on the Ducati

Desmosedici GP14 for the 2015 season, claiming

his first rostrum at Silverstone in the same season.

Four more podiums followed in 2017 and a

singular one in 2018, before the Italian moved to

the factory Ducati team. He took his first MotoGP

victory at Mugello in 2019, before a second

followed at Le Mans in 2020. He moved to KTM

for 2021 but couldn’t return to the rostrum and

lost his seat at the end of the year.

RETURN TO PRODUCTION MACHINERY: a

season in MotoAmerica before

WorldSBK switch

In 2022, ‘Petrux’ moved stateside to ride the

Ducati Panigale V4 R in MotoAmerica, finishing

second in the standings. That caught the eye

of Marco Barnabo, who signed Petrucci for

the second time – on this occasion, it was for

WorldSBK. Three podiums in his maiden season

was a solid rookie effort before 10 came in 2024 –

including three wins, on home soil at Cremona. So

far this season, the #9 has six podiums in 18 races

and sits third in the Championship standings.

A NEW CHALLENGE: leading BMW’s

charge in 2026

While Petrucci has shown strong form on Ducati

machinery, next season marks a new challenge for

the 34-year-old. He will move down the pitlane to

link up with the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK

Team for next season, aiming to replicate some

of the success Toprak Razgatlioglu has enjoyed

on the M1000RR. He is currently the only rider to

be confirmed for the German manufacturer, with

Michael van der Mark out of contract at the end of

this season.

PETRUCCI SAYS: “I’m really proud that I will ride

the bike that currently bears the number one”

Explaining his thoughts on moving to a factory

team, ‘Petrux’ stated: “I’m really happy to join

BMW Motorrad Motorsport for the next season

in World Superbike and proud that I will ride the

bike that currently bears the number one. It was

my target to ride a factory bike because I really

NEWS DESK

want to fight for the World Championship title. So,

I think that this is the step that I needed to get in

the position to achieve that goal. I can’t wait to join

the team, and I want to thank everyone at BMW

and all those people at home who support me. I

also want to thank the Barni Spark Racing Team

for these three years in World Superbike and that

they enabled me to get into a factory team, which

has been my target.”

FROM BMW: “Danilo has more than earned his

place as a factory rider, and we are convinced that

his passion and skill will help lead our team into

the future”

Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad

Motorsport, added: “We are very pleased to

welcome Danilo Petrucci to our BMW Motorrad

Motorsport family in 2026. We are confident that

we can continue our success story in WorldSBK

with Danilo. His move to BMW Motorrad

Motorsport is more than just a new contract – it

is a recognition of his hard work throughout his

career. Danilo has more than earned his place

as a factory rider, and we are convinced that

his passion and skill will help lead our team into

the future. His impressive career across various

motorsport disciplines is a testament to his talent

and ability to perform under the most demanding

conditions. Danilo has not only excelled on

the track but has also won the hearts of fans

with his unique character and authenticity.

He’s a true fighter who never gives up, and his

positive attitude inspires not only his team but

everyone who follows him. We look forward to

the challenges and successes ahead, and we are

proud to soon have Petrux as a member of our

BMW Motorrad Motorsport family.”

NEWS DESK

HONDA TRIUMPHS AT HOME –

VICTORY AND VALOR AT THE 46TH

COCA-COLA SUZUKA 8 HOURS

At the 46th edition of the legendary Coca-Cola

Suzuka 8 Hours, the echoes of screaming engines

and cheering fans once again crowned Honda

HRC as kings of endurance. In one of the most

physically demanding and emotionally intense

races on the FIM Endurance World Championship

calendar, the factory-backed Honda team rose

to the occasion, led by the formidable two-rider

lineup of Takumi Takahashi and Johann Zarco.

From the moment the lights went out, it was clear

Honda meant business. Starting from pole, the

pair tackled the Suzuka circuit’s brutal demands

with metronomic consistency and relentless

pace, fending off an early and fierce challenge

from the Yamaha Factory Racing Team. Despite

the sweltering heat, high humidity, and the

fatigue of double stints with no third rider for

relief, Takahashi and Zarco never faltered. Their

effort was a masterclass in endurance—ruthless,

precise, and unwavering.

The reward? A commanding win at Honda’s home

round and their 31st Suzuka 8 Hours victory—an

achievement that continues to underline their

legacy at this storied event. For Takumi Takahashi,

it was a record-setting seventh Suzuka win,

etching his name even deeper into the event’s

history books. For Johann Zarco, it marked

a second triumph in Japan’s crown jewel of

endurance racing, and perhaps his most hardearned

to date.

“It’s always a good race when you can manage

the gap,” Zarco reflected after the race. “But

doing it with just two riders was extremely tough.

The heat was intense, recovery time was short,

and every stint drained us. There were moments

when getting back on the bike felt brutal—but

in the end, we maintained a strong pace. The

safety car came out twice and shook things up,

but we managed to hold the advantage. I’m really

thankful to Takumi—he was solid every stint. It

motivated me to match his level.”

With a tired but satisfied grin, he added,

“Spending a week in Suzuka feels like a special

kind of holiday—you just have to manage your

energy wisely.”

Behind the dominant Honda squad, the race

remained fiercely contested. Yoshimura SERT

Motul clawed their way to a hard-fought third

NEWS DESK

place, narrowly edging out SDG Team HARC-PRO

Honda in a dramatic finale. But the heartbreak of the day

belonged to championship leaders YART Yamaha Official

EWC Team, who suffered a catastrophic crash and engine

failure, failing to finish and leaving the title chase wide

open. With just one round remaining, BMW Motorrad

World Endurance Team—who secured a fifth-place

finish at Suzuka—now sit just a single point behind YART

heading into the season-ending Bol d’Or.

Among those flying the flag high for South Africa was

Steven Odendaal, a vital part of the BMW effort and

no stranger to the rigors of world-class endurance

competition. While the factory teams basked in the

spotlight, further back in the field, another South

African-born rider was writing a story of sheer grit and

perseverance.

Sheridan Morais, now racing under the Portuguese

flag, endured what may have been one of the toughest

weekends of his long endurance career. Having flown into

Japan late, he arrived battling a stomach virus that forced

him to miss the critical Thursday Free Practice sessions.

His Motobox Kremer Racing teammates carried the load

as best they could, but Friday brought further setbacks,

with crashes for both riders and a technical gremlin that

capped off a miserable day.

Saturday offered no respite on track but did allow for fan

engagement and pit walks, during which Morais took time

to rest and recover. Come race day, the Suzuka furnace

was blazing, and the challenge ahead seemed Everestlike.

Twan Smits took the start and executed a clean and

composed first stint, making up ground early. When

Morais finally climbed aboard, he gave it everything—

but after 15 laps, the combined toll of illness, heat, and

exhaustion forced him to collapse after his stop. Yet,

in true endurance spirit, he returned to complete two

more stints later in the race, looking stronger and more

composed with each lap.

In the end, Motobox Kremer Racing brought it home

in 22nd place overall and 16th in the EWC class—an

admirable result for a small privateer team taking on

giants. Their performance was made even more

impressive considering they were running customerspec

Dunlops, unlike the factory outfits armed with

tailor-made Bridgestones designed specifically for

Suzuka.

“It was really difficult to compete with the guys on

the factory Bridgestones,” Morais said. “We were

on customer Dunlops and doing our best, but those

Bridgestones are in another league. Suzuka is a

spectacular event to witness but a tough one to race

if you’re not on the right tyres. It’s a love-hate thing—

but I’m super proud of my teammates and our crew.

They worked their hands to the bone, and we gave it

everything.”

While the top teams claimed headlines, performances

like those of Motobox Kremer Racing embody the

true spirit of the Suzuka 8 Hours—grit, resilience, and

teamwork in the face of adversity.

Over in the Superstock ranks, it was a day for Dunlop

to celebrate history. Team Étoile surged from pole

to secure a brilliant win, handing Dunlop their firstever

FIM Endurance World Cup victory as the sole

tyre supplier. Hot on their heels were the TONE 4413

EVA 02 BMW and Revo-M2 Aprilia squads, but it was

Team Étoile who emerged as champions of the class.

With National Motos Honda FMA crashing out, the

Superstock title race now heads into the Bol d’Or with

both teams level on points—setting the stage for a nailbiting

finale.

As the sun set on Suzuka, the message was clear: this

race remains one of the most iconic and emotionally

charged events in the global motorcycle racing

calendar. Honda’s home victory was a testament to

preparation, bravery, and tradition. Behind them, riders

like Sheridan Morais and teams like Motobox Kremer

proved that spirit and determination matter just as much

as machinery.

All eyes now turn to the season finale at the Bol

d’Or, where championships will be won or lost, and

endurance will once again be tested to its absolute limit.

NEWS DESK

THE SUZUKI 8R CUP IS

OFFICIALLY ON FOR 2026!

Suzuki South Africa is proud to announce the

launch of the Suzuki 8R Cup, an exciting new

one-make racing series set to hit Gauteng

circuits in 2026. Approved as an official

class for the regional calendar, the 8R Cup is

designed to offer affordable, competitive, and

accessible racing using the acclaimed Suzuki

GSX-8R.

Why the 8R Cup?

• Approved for the 2026 Regional Racing

Calendar

• Near-stock GSX-8R race bikes keep

competition fair and costs low

• Entry-level cost: Get on the grid for as little as

R190,000

• Tyre regulations: Only one set of tyres

allowed per round, reducing race-day expenses

• Possibly win a set of tyres at each round

• 2026 Champion earns a full season of tyres

for 2027.

Get a first look at two 8R Cup bikes during the

“Under 500cc” class at Red Star Raceway on

16 August. Meet the Suzuki team, check out

the bikes up close, and find out how you can

get involved in the 2026 series.

The Suzuki 8R Cup aims to grow beyond

Gauteng in the coming years as demand

increases. Whether you’re a first-time racer

or a seasoned competitor looking for a costeffective

new challenge, this is your opportunity

to be part of something exciting.

For more information or to get involved, contact:

Stuart Baker – stuartb@suzukiauto.co.za

Rental Karts Available!

Quick Races:

10 min session:

3 x 10 min sessions:

6 x 10 min sessions:

15 Lap Race:

Group Events:

Mini Grand prix:

Grand prix:

Endurance:

10 min session:

R600 p.p

R850 p.p

R330 p.p

R850 p.p

R1600 p.p

R380 p.p

R1450 p.p p.kart

3x 10 min session:

READY

TO RIDE

BOOK NOW:

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6x 10 min session:

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R 330 per person

Best for beginners and

kids!!

Do what you can in 10 min

around the rental track!

Get the feeling then start

improving.

R 850 per person

3 x 10 min sessions with

breaks in between to check

your lap time

improvements!

Also good for beginners

looking to improve!

R 1600 per person

6 x 10 min sessions for the

serious lap time

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Best for competitive

drivers who can endure 6

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Online booking is required: Visit

www.formula-k.co.za

NEWS DESK

RETURN OF THE RAY, RISE

OF REDDING, AND A RYDE TO

REMEMBER AT BRANDS HATCH

The picturesque Brands Hatch Grand Prix

circuit delivered a weekend of thrilling action,

dramatic twists, and standout performances in

Round 6 of the 2025 Bennetts British Superbike

Championship. With a mix of redemption

rides, fierce title battles, and a shake-up in the

standings, it was a triple-header that had it all

— and perhaps most crucially, signalled the full

return of three major players: Bradley Ray, Scott

Redding, and Kyle Ryde.

For Bradley Ray, the wait was finally over. The

Raceways Yamaha rider returned to winning

ways at his home circuit, breaking his victory

drought with a commanding ride in the opening

race of the weekend.

Ray made his intentions clear from the start,

grabbing the holeshot ahead of Christian Iddon

and Rory Skinner. Kyle Ryde quickly slotted into

third on the Nitrous Competitions OMG Racing

Yamaha, while Scott Redding – showing his

hunger – made up ground after Skinner ran wide

at Graham Hill Bend.

As Ray began edging out a lead, the real scrap

was brewing behind him. Ryde made a clean

move on Iddon at Hawthorns to take second on

lap six, but the Kawasaki rider wasn’t done yet —

diving back through at Paddock Hill Bend before

Ryde reclaimed the spot a few corners later.

Redding, always lurking, joined the podium fight and

eventually forced his way past Ryde at Surtees to

claim second. Despite setting the fastest lap of the

race — earning pole for Sunday’s opener — Redding

couldn’t reel in Ray, who crossed the line 1.085

seconds ahead to celebrate an emotional win in front

of a home crowd.

Ryde held on to third for a solid podium return, while

Iddon and Danny Kent brought home top-five finishes

— Kent’s result marking McAMS Racing Yamaha’s best

of the season. Further back, Tommy Bridewell fended

off Max Cook for sixth, while Skinner faded to eighth.

Pics by Bourne Photo

If race one was about Ray’s resurgence, race two

was Scott Redding’s statement. The former MotoGP

rider and 2019 BSB champion charged to his first

race victory in the series since his title-winning year,

capping off a gritty ride aboard the Hager PBM

Ducati.

NEWS DESK

Ray once again led into Paddock Hill Bend, this time

with Redding, Iddon, and Kent in tow. Ryde’s sluggish

start dropped him down the order, while Danny Kent

made swift work of Iddon to move into third.

Just as the tension built, drama struck on lap five when

a crash from Charlie Nesbitt at Hawthorns brought out

the BMW Safety Car. Tommy Bridewell also crashed

out earlier at Clearways, compounding Honda Racing

UK’s tough weekend.

On the restart, Ray defended furiously against

Redding, but disaster struck on lap nine — a fast crash

at Westfield eliminating the race one winner from

contention.

That left the door wide open for Redding, who

powered ahead and never looked back. Ryde, now

regrouped, climbed through the pack to second while

Kent held firm in third, claiming his first podium of

the year and another career-best for McAMS Racing

Yamaha.

Iddon and Cook followed closely behind, with Rory

Skinner quietly putting in another consistent ride for

sixth. Andrew Irwin, Lee Jackson, Leon Haslam, and

Josh Brookes rounded out the top ten in a frenetic and

reshuffled second contest.

Sunday’s final race belonged to Kyle Ryde — but the

weekend title went to Redding, who was crowned the

Monster Energy King of Brands after a consistently

strong performance across all three races.

The final showdown began with Ray charging into

the lead once again, but Ryde wasted no time and

snatched second at Druids. Behind them, Redding

slipped momentarily as Kent and Iddon made

aggressive moves, though the Ducati man fought back

to fourth before the safety car was deployed following

a crash from Lee Jackson.

As racing resumed, Kent pulled the pin — passing Ray

at Paddock Hill to lead, while Ryde followed through

shortly after. A terrifying crash for Andrew Irwin at Sheene

Curve added more chaos, but up front, it was a race-long

chess match between Kent and Ryde.

Ryde pounced at Hawthorns on lap 12, only for Kent

to respond at Paddock Hill Bend. The final pass came

at Druids, with Ryde sealing the deal and taking a

hugely popular win — his first of 2025 — for the Nitrous

Competitions OMG Racing Yamaha squad.

Redding managed to overtake Ray on the penultimate

lap to snatch third, and with it, secure the King of Brands

crown. Ray settled for fourth, while Iddon wrapped up

another strong ride in fifth. Rory Skinner was a lonely sixth,

while Haslam edged out Max Cook and Josh Brookes in a

dogfight for seventh. Fraser Rogers completed the top ten.

With three different winners across three races, the title

race has taken on new intensity. Bradley Ray remains at

the top of the table despite his race two crash, but Ryde’s

victory and consistent form see him move into second —

just 34 points adrift. Redding, meanwhile, with a full-time

return now fully underway, looks ready to make this a threehorse

race in the rounds to come.

Bradley Ray (Raceways Yamaha) – 222 pts

Kyle Ryde (Nitrous Competitions OMG Yamaha) – 188 pts

Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings Ducati) – 150 pts

Leon Haslam (Moto Rapido Ducati Racing) – 138 pts

Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) – 118 pts

Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) – 111 pts

Josh Brookes (DAO Racing Honda) – 106 pts

Christian Iddon (AJN Steelstock Kawasaki) – 104 pts

Max Cook (AJN Steelstock Kawasaki) – 82 pts

Storm Stacey (Bathams AJN Racing BMW) – 80 pts

Three winners, a flurry of podium contenders, and the

return of Redding to the top step have reshaped the

Bennetts British Superbike Championship narrative

heading into the second half of the season. With the form

of Ray, Ryde, and Redding on full display, it’s shaping up to

be a title chase for the ages. Brands Hatch didn’t just raise

the stakes — it set the tone for the fireworks still to come.

RACKING UP

THE MILES

LIFE WITH THE GSX-S1000GX

Our long-term Suzuki GSX-S1000GX has settled into life with the Moto

Rider World team beautifully, quickly proving itself as more than

just another sport-touring machine. From cross-country cruises to

instructor duties on the racetrack, and everything in between, the GX

is doing what few bikes can—blending genuine sportbike excitement

with long-haul comfort and crossover versatility.

WORDS BY SHAUN PORTMAN

It didn’t take long after its running-in service at Primrose

Motorcycles for the GX to stretch its legs. Our first proper

outing saw it head off on a scenic ride to Hazyview for

Suzuki’s much-anticipated Weekend Away. It’s always a

calendar highlight, and the GX didn’t disappoint. With fast,

flowing roads and long hours in the saddle, it gave us a

solid taste of just how well-balanced this platform really is.

You can read the full story in Issue 55 of MotorRider World,

where the GX proved it’s as suited to weekend escapes as it

is to the weekday grind.

Most recently, we enjoyed a more relaxed

run out to Hartbeespoort—a gentle cruise

that reminded us how well this bike fits into

everyday life. Smooth, stable and easygoing

at low speed, the GX-S1000GX doesn’t need

aggressive throttle inputs or twisty roads to

feel satisfying. It’s simply a pleasure to ride, no

matter the pace or purpose.

As the kilometres continue to climb, a few

characteristics are starting to stand out.

Comfort-wise, it’s honestly one of the best

we’ve ridden in this category. The upright

ergonomics and plush seating position provide

fatigue-free touring, while the high-quality

wind protection keeps buffeting to a minimum

even at highway speeds. Riders coming from

the adventure segment will appreciate the

familiar stance, but those who stick purely to

tarmac will enjoy the GSX’s sharper dynamics

and road-focused intent. There’s a clear lineage

from the GSX-R superbike range here, and you

feel it every time you twist the throttle.

The electronic suspension adds another layer

of refinement, making mid-ride adjustments

seamless while adapting well to both spirited

riding and chilled cruising. The quickshifter and

auto-blipper are among the smoothest we’ve

Next came a very different challenge—Suzuki South

Africa’s official training day at Red Star Raceway.

We spent the entire day serving as marshals and

instructors, logging over 500 kilometres of track

time. It was a full-on experience, yet the GX remained

composed and eager, even after back-to-back

sessions. It’s not often you find a sport-tourer that

feels this at home carving through apexes and clicking

off lap after lap in total control. It was one of those

days where the lines between touring comfort and

track performance blurred, and the GX delivered on

both fronts.

Riders coming

from the adventure

segment will

appreciate the

familiar stance, but

those who stick

purely to tarmac

will enjoy the GSX’s

sharper dynamics and

road-focused intent.

tested—silky, precise, and usable even in low

gears or under load. It’s easy to forget just

how much power this engine offers, thanks to

its smooth, linear delivery. But open it up, and

the performance is unmistakably superbikederived.

There’s more than enough thrust to

keep things exciting on fast open roads, with

a lively edge that never feels overwhelming.

Fuel consumption has also impressed us, with

sensible figures when riding conservatively.

Of course, open the taps and the fuel needle

drops a little quicker, but it’s a trade-off most

riders will happily accept for the kind of

exhilaration on offer. If we’re nitpicking, the

only thing we’d really like to change is the

electronic top-speed limiter that cuts in at

around 220 km/h. It feels slightly out of step

with the rest of the bike’s character. A little

more room at the top—somewhere in the 250

to 260 km/h region—would let the GX

truly stretch its legs.

We’ve also fitted the GX with a set of BATT

HPll tyres, and they’ve surprised us in the

best way. From the fast, flowing twisties in

Sabie to full-throttle sessions around Red

Star and regular day-to-day commuting,

they’ve handled everything with ease. Warmup

times are quick, edge grip is strong and

consistent, and stability under braking and

cornering has been confidence-inspiring. For

a tyre at this price point, their performance

has been nothing short of exceptional. At the

time of writing, we’ve covered just over 2300

kilometres on them, and there’s still plenty of

life left.

As a package, the GSX-S1000GX continues

to impress. It brings together the muscular

power of a superbike, the comfort of an

upright tourer, and the versatility of a

crossover machine—without ever feeling

compromised in any one area. Whether it’s

long-haul touring, backroad blasting, or trackbased

rider training, this bike keeps showing

up and delivering exactly what we need.

This is the kind of machine that doesn’t

just live up to its title as a supreme sport

crossover—it defines it.

Find out more about the Suzuki GSX-

S1000GX here: https://suzukimotorcycle.

co.za/bikes/street-bikes/gsx-s1000gx/

MAKING

THE

TOPRAK

RAZGATLIOGLU

SWITCH

THEY CAME, THEY SAW, BUT NEVER CONQUERED:

can Toprak win in MotoGP? The Turkish rider – a two-time

WorldSBK champion and vying for a third crown – is making

the switch. Nick Harris asks if he can win in MotoGP.

We have waited and waited for 37 long years. There

have been false dawns, flashes of hope from some

exceptionally talented individuals, but it never

happened. The page is still empty. Can Toprak

Razgatlioglu start writing that new chapter in the

History of Motorcycle Racing?

As always, the facts do not tell the complete story.

That is a good thing because these stark facts portray

a sorry tale.

There have been 19 World Champions in the 37-

year history of the World Superbike Championship.

Only two of those World Champions have never

competed in a MotoGP Grand Prix. Reigning World

Champion and Championship leader this year Toprak

Razgatlioglu, and 2013 Champion Tom Sykes. Next

season Razgatlioglu leaves the fold to start his journey

in MotoGP on the Prima Pramac Yamaha. It’s a journey

that has never been completed by his predecessors.

Plenty have set out but not returned home with the

spoils. Injuries and pure bad luck have hampered

others. Some declined to even start the journey. The

individuals making the reverse trip have found a much

smoother road.

Sete Gibernau. He was no stranger to MotoGP

and had made 43 Grand Prix appearances

for Ducati and Honda after winning the 2001

World Superbike title. Bayliss returned to

World Superbikes and won the title in 2006. It

was an historic win in Valencia. While the world

focussed on the Hayden/Rossi fight for the

Championship, Bayliss led Loris Capirossi over

the line for the first ever Ducati one/two in the

premier class.

Great expectation and real anticipation

surrounded Spies and Bayliss on their arrival

in the MotoGP paddock, and there have been

others that created a similar vibe. The likes of

Colin Edwards, James Toseland, Neil Hodgson,

and Scott Russell, looked on course to repeat

their success.

For Russell, it was never going to be easy. He

came into the factory Suzuki team halfway

through the 1995 season to replace the

former MotoGP World Champion and legend

Kevin Schwanz, who was finally forced to

retire with a wrist injury. Russell arrived with

Incredibly, only two World Champions switching to

MotoGP won a Grand Prix. American Ben Spies would

have surely won more and

pushed hard for the title, but

injuries forced his retirement.

The 2009 World Champion

made 55 MotoGP starts

with that single MotoGP

win coming two year later

in Assen. The Yamaha rider

finished fifth in the MotoGP

World Championship the

same year. Five years earlier

World Superbike Champion,

Australian Troy Bayliss, won

the final grand prix of the

2006 season at Valencia in

very different circumstances.

The Ducati rider was drafted

in to replace the injured

finishing chicane. To the dismay of 99% of

the MotoGP paddock he crashed with the

chequered flag in sight. His big chance had

gone and never returned. Edwards finished

on the podium 12 times which included five

second places. If anybody deserved to join

Bayliss and Spies as a Grand Prix winner, it

was the Texan.

a formidable record. The American was a

World Superbike, AMA Champion and a

winner of the prestigious Suzuka 8-hour

race. It was never going to be easy switching

from four-stroke to the 500cc two-strokes

and replacing a legend. He rode in 19 Grands

Prix and grabbed two podiums for Suzuki.

I think the biggest anticipation surrounded

Colin Edwards and James Toseland, when

they made the switch after so much success.

The exuberant and likable Texan Edwards

was never slow to voice his opinions. He was

soon urging Hodgson, who’d replaced him

as World Champion in 2003, to join him.

Edwards had a fabulous career in MotoGP

both on and off the track. The American

rode in 196 Grands Prix and deserved to

win at least one. In 2006 he was leading the

Dutch TT in Assen going into final part of the

With so little British success in MotoGP, the

arrival of piano playing Toseland was seen as

the sunrise on a new era. The double World

Champion made an encouraging start by

qualifying on the front row at the opening

grand prix of the 2008 MotoGP season in

Qatar. Sadly, that promise never materialised

because an injured wrist causing much pain

and lack of grip. The British rider made just

35 Grand Prix appearances with nine sixth

places his best results.

Hodgson had taken Edwards’ advice ‘to get

his a… off the sofa and join him in MotoGP.

He already had experience in both 125 and

500cc GP racing. Hodgson switched to

World Superbikes after 15 MotoGP races on a

private Yamaha. He won the World Superbike

Championship in 2003 and switched back to

MotoGP a year later. It was tough going on an

uncompetitive Ducati, with his best result an

eighth place in Japan.

So, what about the World Champions who

decided to stay put as the Kings of their

chosen Castle. Carl Fogarty received Barry

Sheene type acclaim when he won the World

Superbike Championship in 1994, ’95, ‘98,

‘99. The World Superbike Championship

with Fogarty at the helm was matching and,

in some countries, including Great Britain

attracting more interest than grand prix

racing. Fogarty had shown in six Grands

Prix appearances, including a fourth place in

Britain, that he had the ability to run with the

likes of five times MotoGP Champion Mick

Doohan, but it never happened. He was only

prepared to switch to a top team and then

injury brought his career to a premature end.

Ulsterman Jonathan Rea won the World

Superbike Championship an unrivalled six

times in a row for Kawasaki between 2015-

2020. Surely, he was the rider to take on the

likes of Rossi and Marquez on the MotoGP

stage. On his two Grands Prix appearances,

replacing the injured Casey Stoner in the

Repsol Honda team at Aragon and Misano in

2012, he had already impressed with seventh

and eighth places respectively. It was Fogarty

all over again. The right offer to lure them

away from a phenomenally successful and

lucrative lifestyle never materialised. Who can

blame either of them for staying put and we

were left wondering what might have been.

Fogarty versus Doohan and Rea versus Rossi

and Marquez – we can only dream!

husqvarna-motorcycles.com

R109 699



Photos: A. Barbanti, R. Schedl

Escape

the ordinary.

free yourself from

the shackles of monotony

by climbing onto the

all-new svartpilen 401.

New 5" bonded glass TFT display

Cornering ABS and MTC

Those making the reverse journey

found the going much smoother.

Grand Prix Champions Max Biaggi and

Alvaro Bautista added to their World

Championship trophy cabinets. Italian

Biaggi won 13 Premier class races after

winning four successive 250 cc titles.

His switch to World Superbikes brought

him two more world titles in 2010 and

2012. Spaniard Bautista also captured

two World Superbike titles in 2022/23.

He’d already won the 2006 125 cc title

and ridden 159 MotoGP races, including

three podiums. American John Kocinski

won four MotoGP races in 71 starts

before being crowned World Superbike

Champion in 1997.

starts. His fortune changed when he switched

to win the 1990 World Superbike title.

So can Razgatlioglu unlock the magic

formula? Edwards always said he left it too

late to make the switch, and a glance at

Cal Crutchlow’s fantastic career is surely

an indication of hope. The British rider won

the World Supersport Championship in

2009 and then completed just one season

in World Superbike. He won two races and

was favourite to fight for the title in 2011, but

he knew he had to take his MotoGP chance

when it came. The result, a fantastic MotoGP

career and three MotoGP wins. More than any

World Superbike Champion.

It was great timing by Crutchlow and

Razgatlioglu appears to have timed his big

switch perfectly. In the opposite way to

Crutchlow, the 28-year-old Turkish rider bided

his time until the right offer came along. Two

world titles and a possibly third under his

belt, the offer of a works Yamaha MotoGP

machine came at the perfect time. Yamaha

are on their way back and with the likelihood

of the V-4 M1 machine. He has a season to

adjust next year while Yamaha continue their

development. A year later the pendulum

swings Razgatlioglu way. MotoGP switches

from Michelin to Pirelli tyres. All his Superbike

success came on the Italian rubber.

Can the Turkish Wizz-kid succeed where

those other great World Champions failed?

Razgatlioglu versus Marquez. What a

prospect. It is time that 37-year curse is

extinguished for good.

Spaniard Carlos Checa won two

MotoGP races in 194 premier class

starts, before being crowned World

Superbike Champion in 2011. The reversal

of Colin Edward’s dilemma happened

to Frenchman Raymond Roche who

grabbed nine podiums in 80 MotoGP

RIDING THE

HIMALAYAS

The journey to the soul of adventure didn’t start with a key

turning in the ignition. It began with a slow, surreal climb

through clouds and time zones — three flights and countless

altitude changes from Johannesburg to Abu Dhabi, then into

the bustling chaos of Delhi, and finally a final hop to Leh. Sitting

at more than 3,500 metres above sea level in the Ladakh

region of northern India, Leh felt like another world — thin air,

snowcapped ridges, and a stillness that commanded respect.

WORDS BY SHAUN PORTMAN. PICS BY ROYAL ENFIELD & SHAUN PORTMAN

THE SOUL OF ADVENTURE ON THE ROYAL ENFIELD HIMALAYAN 450

This was the beginning of the 2025 Royal

The Kaal Hotel in Leh was our home for the first

engine pulling steadily through hairpins, and its

From Pangong Tso, we pressed onward with

Enfield Moto Himalaya — a guided expedition

few days — and for good reason. Acclimatisation

fuel efficiency an impressive 30km/litre. The real

a meaningful stop at Rezang La — a mountain

across one of the most remote, unforgiving, and

here isn’t optional; it’s survival. Our group was an

adventure began on day four, when we left Leh

pass etched deeply into the history and soul

spectacular landscapes on Earth. Our steed for

international patchwork: a lively contingent from

for Pangong Tso.

of the region. Rezang La, perched at around

the journey was the new Royal Enfield Himalayan

Turkey — Tunay, Serhat, Tarık, Murat, Murat, Bora,

5,500 metres, was the site of one of the most

450, a machine not built for showroom glamour

Gözde, and Ayşe — alongside one American, one

The road to the lake was long and relentless,

heroic last stands during the 1962 Sino-Indian

but for the raw reality of the wild. My bike had

Italian, and a softly spoken Japanese rider named

snaking through stark valleys and over mountain

War. Here, the ‘C’ Company of India’s 13 Kumaon

over 23,000 hard-earned kilometres on the

Kimi. In those first days, we shared Ladakhi meals,

passes before finally revealing Pangong Tso

battalion, composed mainly of Ahir soldiers

clock — its panels scratched, its tank worn, every

traded stories, and learned each other’s quirks,

itself — a mirror of shifting blues at 4,225 metres,

under Major Shaitan Singh, fought fiercely against

mark a story. Yet when I thumbed the starter, it

the altitude reminding us to take it slow.

flanked by barren peaks and stretching into the

overwhelming Chinese forces. Against odds of

answered with quiet confidence, ready for the

horizon toward the Chinese border. The altitude

approximately 3000 enemy troops, the company

1,100 kilometres of altitude, dust, water, and ice

A short acclimatisation ride on day three gave us

left us short of breath, but the silence filled

of just over 120 men held their ground until the

that lay ahead.

our first taste of the terrain. Even in this gentle

something deeper.

very end, exemplifying courage and sacrifice that

loop, the Himalayan 450 shone — its long-travel

has since become legendary. The pass stands

suspension soaking up rocks, its torquey Sherpa

along a contested ridge that marks the Line of

Our base in Nubra was the quiet village of

Hundar, a place of sand dunes and grazing

camels framed by snowy peaks. Here, time

slowed. We spent our rest day travelling by bus

to Turtuk, one of India’s northernmost villages

near the Pakistani border. Turtuk was a revelation

— a blend of Balti and Ladakhi culture, terraced

fields, and people whose warmth could melt

any traveller’s reserve— a true step back in

time. Nestled between the towering Karakoram

Range and the Himalayas, Turtuk is one of India’s

northernmost villages, perched on the banks of

the Shyok River in the Nubra Valley. The village’s

serene isolation is palpable, with a lifestyle

that feels untouched by the rush of modern

technology, aside from the occasional car or

smartphone. Here, life unfolds at a gentle pace.

Actual Control between India and China, a tense

boundary that has seen renewed skirmishes as

recently as 2020-2021.

Visiting the Rezang La memorial was a humbling

experience. The stark, windswept ridge seemed

to carry the echoes of those who fell defending

their land. Standing there, surrounded by the

harsh Himalayan silence and endless sky, the

weight of history was palpable. It was a solemn

reminder of the sacrifices made to protect this

rugged frontier — and a powerful moment that

grounded us amid the adventure.

After leaving Rezang La, we continued our

journey pressing on toward Hanle — a village so

remote it feels like the end of the Earth — before

tackling Umling La, the highest motorable road

in the world at over 5,800 metres. Here, every

breath was an effort. The Himalayan 450, too, felt

the strain, but it never quit, climbing over rocky

switchbacks and fording icy rivers with patient

determination. The higher we climbed, the quieter

the world became — just wind, engine, and the

crunch of tyres on gravel.

Day seven was our longest stretch — around

300 kilometres from Hanle to Ulley Tokpo — a

day of endless horizons and shifting landscapes.

By now, the rhythm of riding, stopping for cha,

refreshmentsi, and pushing on had become

second nature. The following day brought one of

the most dramatic transitions of the trip as we

rode from Ulley Tokpo into the Nubra Valley via

the legendary Khardung La. Once considered

the world’s highest motorable pass, Khardung La

still demands respect at 5,359 metres. The climb

was a slow, switchback ballet through thin air and

biting cold, rewarded by a view that felt like the

roof of the world.

Walking through Turtuk is like stepping into

a living museum of traditional Himalayan life.

The locals cultivate their own food, tending

small farms bursting with fresh vegetables and

fruit — apricots being a particular specialty of

the region. Sheep graze peacefully in fenced

enclosures, moved carefully from pasture to

pasture, providing wool that supports the

community’s crafts and livelihoods. It’s a simple,

self-sufficient existence that’s as nostalgic as it is

inspiring.

The people of Turtuk, and indeed throughout

India, welcomed us with open hearts and warm

smiles. There’s a genuine curiosity and kindness

in every interaction. Residents love to hear where

we’re from, what brought us here, and share

stories of their own lives in this remote corner of

the world. This friendliness deepened the sense

that this place is more than a destination — it’s a

community woven from centuries of history and

resilience.

Historically, Turtuk holds a unique place. Once

administered by Pakistan until the Indian Army

regained control in the 1971 war, it stands today

as a peaceful gateway near the Line of Control

between India and Pakistan. It is also a strategic

entry point to the Siachen Glacier, one of the

highest and most challenging battlefields on

earth. Yet despite its fraught history, the village

itself feels untouched by conflict — a tranquil

haven where the rhythms of nature and tradition

still reign supreme.

Our time there was a rare privilege, a reminder

that amid the dramatic landscapes and

demanding rides, the true heart of the Himalayas

beats strongest in its people and their timeless

way of life.

Adventure in the Himalayas is never without its

trials. Ayşe fell ill early on and needed hospital

care, while Gözde was involved in a minor offroad

tangle with two other riders. Both incidents

served as stark reminders that altitude, terrain,

and fatigue demand respect. Through it all, the

Turkish crew rallied with unshakable spirit, their

laughter and teasing keeping morale high.

Certain personalities became legends in our

group. Tunay — or “Tonight,” as we came to

call him — was part daredevil, part comedian,

slipping in rivers, vaulting off bikes, and keeping

us entertained with his fearless antics. Kimi,

our Japanese rider, became a quiet inspiration.

Dependent on supplemental oxygen at times, he

nonetheless tackled every pass with unwavering

determination, proving that grit often outweighs

raw strength.

Eventually from Nubra, we traced our way

back to Leh, riding the final 200 kilometres

with the bittersweet knowledge that the

journey was ending. At the Kaal Hotel,

we handed back our bikes and gathered

for a small ceremony where Bharath and

Prince from Royal Enfield presented us with

completion certificates. There were hugs,

photos, and quiet moments of reflection. We

had set out seeking adventure and found it

— but we also found friendship, humility, and

a peace that only comes when you step far

outside your comfort zone.

India can overwhelm from a distance, but

from the saddle of a Himalayan 450, it reveals

itself as something far greater — vibrant,

ancient, humbling, and generous beyond

measure. This was more than a ride. It was a

recalibration of the soul.

Alongside our diverse group was Matteo

from Italy, a fellow journalist who brought

a keen eye and thoughtful perspective to

the journey. We also rode with Peter from

America — despite nearing 70 years of age,

he was still a pro motocross racer back

home, with impeccable bike control and

an undeniable love for dirt riding. Whether

navigating tight, twisty roads, long stretches

of tarmac, or challenging dirt tracks, Matteo,

Peter, and I shared plenty of laughs and

pushed the Himalayan 450s to their limits.

Every turn and throttle twist was a chance to

create memories and enjoy the ride together.

To anyone who gets the chance — say yes.

Pack light. Ride far. You won’t return the same.

Huge thanks to Royal Enfield India, Royal

Enfield South Africa, Moto-Royale, and the

entire support crew — medics, mechanics,

drivers, and organisers — who turned a wild

dream into a living, breathing memory.

The two nights in Hanle were among

the most magical of the expedition. Our

campsite stood beside winding rivers and

open meadows where wild horses and

Himalayan asses grazed freely. Royal Enfield’s

support team outdid themselves with meals

— smoky barbecued chicken, rich curries,

and gooey chocolate brownies — served in

a warm dining tent under the gaze of the

Himalayas. Evenings ended with chai by

the fire, stories shared under a starlit sky so

bright it felt almost unreal.

RACING PAGES

he pulled off a stunning move around the outside of

Davis in the final sector to reclaim third place at the

flag—a gritty and determined ride that earned him a

well-deserved spot on the podium.

SA RIDER

WATCH

Race 1 wrapped with Scholtz standing tall in first,

Jacobsen in second, and Petersen sealing third

in spectacular fashion. Blake Davis, after leading

early, settled for fourth. Though Jacobsen set

the fastest lap of the race with a 1:26.094, it was

Scholtz’s flawless execution that stole the spotlight.

MOTOAMERICA 2025 – ROUND 5

SOUTH AFRICAN

THUNDER AT VIR

If Race 1 was dramatic, Race 2 on Sunday was a

masterclass in control and composure. Scholtz was

simply untouchable. Taking the holeshot and never

looking back, he clocked a record-breaking 1:25.964

en route to a commanding second victory of the

weekend, completing a clean sweep and reinforcing

his status as the man to beat in the Supersport class.

Behind him, the battle for the remaining podium

places raged once more. Blake Davis and PJ

Jacobsen locked horns in a back-and-forth fight that

went down to the wire. Davis initially held second, but

Jacobsen found a way through and managed to edge

out the Yamaha rider by just over a tenth of a second

Virginia International Raceway set the stage for a

thrilling MotoAmerica Supersport weekend, and

it was South Africa that delivered the fireworks.

Mathew Scholtz and Cameron Petersen flew the

flag high, each adding their own chapter to an

action-packed narrative across two breathtaking

races.

From the moment qualifying began, it was

clear that Mathew Scholtz meant business.

The defending champion fired in a scorching

lap of 1:26.505 to snatch pole position aboard

the Strack Racing Yamaha R9—just 0.002s

clear of teammate Blake Davis in a show of

sheer dominance. Not far behind was Cameron

Petersen, back on form and showing his growing

confidence on the Celtic Racing Warhorse HSBK

Ducati. His 1:26.696 lap time secured fourth on

the grid, less than two tenths off the front.

Race 1 on Saturday delivered the drama fans had

hoped for. Scholtz, shadowing Davis early on,

bided his time before striking to take control at the

front. Behind them, a fierce scrap was unfolding.

PJ Jacobsen muscled past Davis, triggering a

chain reaction that brought Petersen into the

mix. In one of the most exhilarating battles of the

season, Petersen and Jacobsen traded places lap

after lap in a high-speed chess match.

Then came heartbreak. Just as Petersen looked

poised to snatch second, a miscalculation into

Turn 1 saw him run wide and drop back to fourth.

But the South African wasn’t done. Digging deep,

RACING PAGES

SA RIDER

WATCH

at the flag. The pair crossed the line 3.3 seconds

behind the untouchable Scholtz.

Meanwhile, Petersen again looked quick and

committed, charging hard after a tough start and

beginning to reel in the leading trio. But disaster

struck on lap 10 when he crashed out at Turn

4 while pushing hard to join the podium fight.

Though he remounted and finished the race, it

was a bitter blow to what had been shaping up as

another strong result. He eventually crossed the

line in 18th, a lap down.

Rounding out the top five were Tyler Scott on

the Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki and Kayla

Yaakov on the Rahal Ducati, both delivering strong

and consistent performances in a race that saw

multiple storylines unfold across the pack.

For Scholtz, the weekend was perfection—pole

position, two wins, a new lap record, and an iron

grip on the championship lead. For Petersen,

it was a tale of resilience: a podium against the

odds on Saturday and raw speed undone by a

costly error on Sunday. But both riders proved

once again that South Africa’s presence in

MotoAmerica Supersport is not just symbolic—it’s

competitive, aggressive, and podium-worthy.

As the dust settles at VIR, the rest of the field

has a clear message: underestimate the South

Africans at your peril. With Scholtz in imperious

form and Petersen steadily building momentum,

the MotoAmerica season just got a whole lot

more exciting.

Dominic Doyle Rockets to

the Podium in MotoAmerica

Twins Cup Thriller at VIR

South Africa’s Dominic Doyle (#25) reminded

everyone of his race-winning pedigree at Virginia

International Raceway as he delivered two

standout performances in the MotoAmerica

SC-Project Twins Cup, highlighted by a storming

podium in Race 2.

Race 1 saw Doyle get the weekend off to a strong

start. Starting from seventh on the grid aboard the

GiaccMoto Yamaha R7, he immediately carved

his way into contention, even taking the lead

for several laps in the opening stages. Showing

strong pace and composure, Doyle held his own

against the factory-backed Aprilia trio before

eventually crossing the line in fourth—just shy of

the podium, but with clear intent for more.

And more is exactly what came in Race 2.

Fired up and with overnight setup changes paying

dividends, Doyle launched like a missile at the

start and pulled off a breathtaking move around

the outside to snatch the lead in the opening

corners. What followed was a white-knuckle battle

with reigning champion Alessandro Di Mario and

a pack of determined Aprilia riders.

As the laps counted down, lapped traffic turned

the chase into a chaotic four-bike melee for

second. But Doyle held his nerve, defended

smartly, and attacked with confidence when it

mattered most. In the final sector, he dug deep

and emerged from the chaos to claim a brilliant

second place—his first MotoAmerica podium in

several rounds and a well-earned reward for a

weekend of hard graft and fearless racing.

With results like these, Dominic Doyle is firmly

back in the fight—and proving that the Yamaha

R7, when in the right hands, is still very much a

podium threat in the Twins Cup war.

RACING PAGES

Blaze Baker Makes His Mark

at Brands Hatch

South Africa’s own Blaze Baker continued to build

momentum in the British Superbike Championship

with his strongest weekend yet at Round 5, held at the

legendary Brands Hatch circuit.

Riding for the NP Racing team, Blaze took a solid step

forward with improved pace across every session,

translating to consistent gains in race results. After

qualifying 20th, he fought his way to P21 in Race 1, P19 in

Race 2, and an impressive P18 in the final race — his best

finish to date in the ultra-competitive Superbike class.

“This weekend felt like a real breakthrough,” Blaze shared.

“Massive thanks to the entire team, my supporters, and all

the sponsors backing me from trackside and back home.

The progress is real, and we’re only getting started!”

Lindemann Lands on the

Podium at Brands Hatch

Young South African talent David Lindemann

delivered a breakthrough performance at the

iconic Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit during

Round 5 of the 2025 Bennetts British Superbike

Championship, competing in the AJN Steelstock

Kawasaki British Superteen Championship.

After a string of challenging rounds marked by

crashes and misfortune, Lindemann bounced

back in style. He opened the weekend with a hardfought

7th place in Race 1, guiding his HCL Car

Sales Ltd Kawasaki to the line just 13.6 seconds

behind the leader in a fiercely competitive midfield

battle. Clocking a best lap of 1:37.547 and

averaging over 88 mph, it was a clear sign that the

pace was coming.

But the real headline came in Race 2. Showing

resilience and maturity beyond his years,

Lindemann charged to a well-earned P3 podium

finish, setting a best lap of 1:37.184 and finishing

just 3.4 seconds off the win. It was a massive

confidence boost for both rider and team — a

moment of redemption and a reward for their

commitment and perseverance.

With momentum now firmly on their side,

Lindemann and the HCL Car Sales crew are

eyeing even bigger results in the races to come.

Pic by Bourne Photo

SA RIDER

WATCH

With eyes now set on the next round at Thruxton, Blaze’s

steady rise shows no signs of slowing down.

Pics by Bourne Photo

RACING PAGES

MXGP OF FLANDERS

DELIVERS DRAMA,

DETERMINATION,

AND GLORY

Lommel once again lived up to its brutal reputation

as Round 15 of the 2025 FIM Motocross World

Championship delivered a weekend of deep sand,

deep emotion, and two standout performances

that lit up the Belgian sky. With the sun breaking

through the clouds over one of the sport’s most

iconic circuits, fans were treated to a masterclass

of motocross grit and glory as local hero Lucas

Coenen and reigning MX2 World Champion Kay de

Wolf carved their names into the moment.

In the MXGP class, Lucas Coenen gave the

passionate Belgian fans exactly what they came

for. The 18-year-old Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

rider made a gritty comeback after a tough

opening moto to claim his first-ever overall win at

Lommel—his fifth career GP victory and arguably

his most significant yet. Coenen’s decisive Race 2

performance saw him launch an audacious pass

on red plate holder Romain Febvre before riding

away to take an emotional victory in front of 37,700

roaring supporters.

Although both Coenen and Febvre ended the day

tied on 47 points apiece, it was Febvre’s 1-2 finish

that allowed the Kawasaki Racing Team rider to

retain the red plate by a slim nine-point margin.

Febvre had looked in control during Race 1,

holding off a hard-charging Coenen after the pair

went back and forth in a tense, high-speed duel.

But when it came to the final moto, he simply had

no answer for the Belgian’s late-race speed and

daring lines—especially the wall-jump section where

Coenen made his race-winning move.

Calvin Vlaanderen also played a major role in

the day’s story, putting together a measured and

resilient ride for Monster Energy Yamaha Factory

MXGP. A small crash in Race 2 nearly derailed his

charge, but the South African-born star dug deep

to secure third overall—his second podium of the

season and a boost of momentum heading into the

final stretch of the championship.

Jeffrey Herlings, who showed promising early pace

in both motos, saw his efforts unravel after crashes

in each race left him eighth overall, while privateers

Hakon Fredriksen and Jan Pancar made the most

of the conditions to notch up career-best rides

inside the top ten.

In the MX2 class, it was all about domination—

pure, unrelenting domination. Kay de Wolf was on

another level from the moment the gate dropped.

The Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing rider

swept the weekend with a perfect 1-1-1 scorecard,

including wins in both GP motos and the Qualifying

Race. His authoritative ride also included a Fox

Holeshot in Race 2 and a winning margin of over

eleven seconds, underscoring his mastery of the

Lommel sand.

De Wolf’s flawless performance closed the gap in

the title chase to just 38 points behind red plate

holder Simon Längenfelder, injecting fresh fire

into a championship that’s heating up fast. With

Arnhem up next, the Dutchman is on home soil and

carrying all the momentum.

Behind him, Camden Mc Lellan continued his

impressive run for Monster Energy Triumph Racing.

The South African-born rider looked completely

at ease in the soft stuff, pushing his Triumph to

second overall with 2-3 finishes and matching his

career-best result. His charge from outside the

top ten to third in Race 2, including a late pass

on Längenfelder, was a standout moment in a

weekend full of them.

www.gasgas.com

RACING PAGES

Sacha Coenen, despite multiple crashes across

both races, still managed to salvage third overall.

The young Belgian showed blistering pace all

weekend but admitted frustration at not delivering

a win in front of his home crowd. Still, the podium

result is another step forward in his growing MX2

career.

Elsewhere, Andrea Adamo rebounded from a firstturn

collision in Race 2 to finish eighth and take

fourth overall, while wildcard Nicolaj Skovbjerg and

privateer Jens Walvoort continued to impress with

gritty rides inside the top ten.

Romain Febvre leads the MXGP standings on 734

points, with Lucas Coenen right behind on 725.

Glenn Coldenhoff holds third on 534. In MX2,

Simon Längenfelder sits atop the table with 704

points, with Kay de Wolf chasing hard on 666, and

Andrea Adamo in third with 655.

Lommel may be done for the year, but its impact

will ripple through the rest of the season. For Lucas

Coenen and Kay de Wolf, it was a weekend to

savour—and perhaps a defining moment in their

2025 championship campaigns

NEXT LEVEL

OFFROAD

ENJOYMENT

Photos: KISKA, Mitterbauer H.

The MXGP of Flanders once again delivered

everything that makes motocross great—roaring

crowds, relentless tracks, fierce battles, and local

legends rising to the occasion. As the series now

heads to Udevalla for the MXGP of Sweden on

17–18 August, the championship standings remain

tight, the rivalries intense, and the story far from

finished.

/GASGAS ’25/ENDURO RANGE/GET ON THE GAS

GASGAS certainly means business when it comes to enduro in 2024 as an

all-new EC 125 joins the now seven-bike strong line-up for 2025! Besides

the exciting addition of another high-revving 2-stroke, each one of our six

other models – the EC 250, EC 300, EC 250F, EC 350F, EC 450F & EC 500F –

are revised with some technical updates to maximize performance, durability,

and above all else, ensure an improved overall riding experience for riders of

all abilities.

#GetOnTheGas

CHECK IT OUT!



@gasgas.official

MRW Issue 56

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