What you need to Know: Motorcycle Racing is Nearly Here
The first races of the motorcycle racing seasons are fast approaching. Here is a list of the first race of each of the major promotions.
MotoGP – March 2nd Grand Prix of Thailand
World Superbike – February 22nd Australian Round
MotoAmerica – March 29th Circuit of the Americas
American Flat Track – March 6th Daytona
Daytona 200 – March 7th
My Take: Winter may not be over yet, but sun rays of hope are flickering. The start of Supercross racing just stoked my motorcycle racing appetite. BSB and Isle of Mann start in May.
I have plans, don’t we all, to attend at least one MotoAmerica race this year after missing out in 2024.
What you need to know: 50 Years of Honda Gold Wing at Daytona Bike Week
From a Honda Press Release:
Pop-up museum to document legendary touring model’s rich history
Schedule includes a host of customer-focused activities
Also planned: demo rides with Gold Wings and other Honda on-road bikes
American Honda announced today an expanded activation area at the upcoming Bike Week event in Daytona Beach, Florida, celebrating 50 Years of Flight with the Gold Wing touring bike. Situated outside Daytona Speedway from February 28 to March 9, the space will cover a total of nearly 32,000 square feet and will include a massive display tent and a demo-ride staging area.
Earlier this month, Honda unveiled the 2025 Gold Wing platform, which features special colors and logos commemorating the iconic model’s half-century milestone.
My Take: 50 Years of the Gold Wing! I think it is great that Honda is doing something like this, taking a page from the Harley Davidson playbook. If I have to buy another touring bike, I am going to take a hard look at the new Wing.
What you need to Know: Minnesota Bans Kids Motorcycles
Effective January 1st, 2025, Minnesota has banned the sale of items made with the chemical PFAS. The ban covers 11 areas including things made for children which include motorcycles and ATVs.
Minnesota has banned any juvenile products, except electronics, that intentionally contain PFAS. PFAS is linked to an increased risk for cancer and other health troubles.
PFAS is used in motorcycles for heat-resistance and water-proofing.
The state is concerned about when motorcycles end up in landfills. With 98 of 101 landfills leaking into the ground water they want to protect the environment.
My Take: This is very similar to the attempt to, nationwide, ban kids’ motorcycles that contain lead. Motorcycle advocates and lobby groups were able to reverse that law, but I think it will be a lot harder to reverse this new state law.
Minnesota is a very liberal and a bit of a draconian state. During COVID the police would shoot people with paint guns for sitting on their own porches. Because of how this state works, the manufacturers will need to change what they use to make their products or not sell them.
I expect there to be a sales boom for dealerships that are close the state boarder.
Lastly, the ban excludes electronics. Really, I am sure that there are lot more electronics making it to landfills than motorcycles.
What you need to know: KTM struggles are greater than first thought.
As noted in a previous post KTM has over $3 billion in debt and has filed to undergo “self-restructuring” to get thing righted. Self-restructuring is a 90-day process that expires at the end of February 2025. If they are unable to get to an acceptable solution, they may go into formal bankruptcy. CitiBank has been brought in to help with bankruptcy if needed, not a good sign.
Since that last news drop things have not improved. For example:
KTM has not made payroll for 2+ months, after promising to pay at least 90% of what was due.
Employees are looking for new jobs
European production has been greatly reduced.
* Mid-range motorcycle production has moved to China (home of KTM partner CF Moto) and India, with Bajaj Auto. By the way, Bajaj owns 49% of KTM.
* Bajai owns the Pierer Mobility which, in turn, owns KTM AG. Bajaj builds many of KTM and Husqvarna’s small-displacement street motorcycles like the 390 Adventure and Duke, and Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401s.
* CF Moto builds the 790 and 890 engines under contract for KTM. KTM is CFMoto’s exclusive motorcycle distributor in Europe.
KTM is selling its majority stake of 50.1% in MV Agusta, effectively dropping it from their portfolio.
The Financial Market Authority (FMA) in Austria has launched an investigation into KTM’s workings. They are probing whether the parent company, Pierer Mobility, has complied with disclosure regulations.
IN RACING: KTM still claims it will provide race teams this year. Nonetheless there are some major developments in this area:
KTM is not renewing their MotoGP contract when it expires at the end of this season. Which means there will be no KTM in MotoGP for 2026.
They have already stopped development and testing of their MotoGP bikes. Jeremy McWilliams, KTM’s long-term test rider, has been let go.
No Gas Gas motorcycles for MotoGP 2025. The “former” Gas Gas team has been rebranded as factory KTM.
Looks like Husqvarna has been removed from the MotoGP grid as well.
KTM has cut its global racing program by 12 riders. I was not able to identify which teams were cut. Each rider typically requires support from two to four employees, as well as trucks and other equipment, so some savings.
KTM is no longer the title sponsor for the Hard Enduro World Championship.
My Take: KTM may start the MotoGP racing season, but they may not finish the season.
American Supercross is first up and starts in January. I will not be surprised if Gas Gas and Husky factory teams do not make it to the start line and if they do, they may not make it to the end.
MotoGP racing is hiding behind KTM Switzerland, a separate company, so there is a chance they might start the season, but I doubt they make it to the end of the season. Also, I do not see Moto3 or Moto2 teams making the start line.
I expect that Husqvarna will be sold, as they make a lot more then motorcycles. I doubt that Gas Gas will survive as a brand when all is said and done unless it sold to Bajaj or the Chinese parent of CF Moto.
I think that there is a good chance that KTM will sell their majority stake to Bajaj to save the company. At which point I would expect European production to be greatly reduced and then phased out and replaced with Bajaj production efforts.
CitiBank is not there to save the company, they are there to make the best deal for the debt holders. If KTM does not come up with a valid plan to fix this miss, CitiBank, I expect, will sell off KTM part by part, until $3 Billion in debts are serviced. Some things to consider:
This is going to impact other manufacturers if/when a flood of KTM motorcycle backlog is sold off cheap.
If KTM closes racing it is possible that we will never see some of their riders race again.
What you need to know: Senator John Thune new Majority Leader
You may not know this, but John Thune is a proud motorcyclist. He has been recognized by the MRF and AMA as a “champion” of motorcyclists’ rights.
My Take: This is a good thing for those of us that ride. Senator Thune has been a friend of motorcyclists, and he should continue supporting us from this more powerful position.
KTM in Grave Danger
KTM is in debt 2.5 billion Euros (2.65B US) and has filed for insolvency and self-restructuring. Of course, this also pertains to KTM other products; Husqvarna, MV Agusta and Gas-Gas.
As a result of their self-restructuring they are making changes, some of which include:
Layoff of European employees, with 500 more by the end of the year.
Board of Directors cuts the number from 6 to 2 people.
Production halted planned
Halt of MotoGP development (it claims it will be on the grid in 2025)
My Take: WOW!!! We all know that the world of motorcycling is declining as the boomer and generation X grow older. However, I do not think that many were aware that KTM was in this much debt!
KTM and its other brands are in danger. I could see a sell off of Husky and MV Agusta as their names alone are very valuable, but Gas-Gas might not make it. With the cost of running racing teams, I would not be surprised to see KTM withdrawing from everything racing but MotoGP.
We will have answers about the future of KTM sooner rather than later. KTM has until the end of February 2025 to get healthy or file bankruptcy.
American Honda announced today that for the 2025 model year, its popular Rebel 1100 cruiser lineup receives important updates focused on comfort and convenience. The family also grows by one, with the addition of the Rebel 1100 DCT SE—a premium-level version that shines with a list of eye-grabbing features included as standard equipment, such as fork boots, handlebar-end rear-view mirrors, a color-matched headlight cowl, a short front fender, and a special seat.
“Since its 2021 debut, Honda’s Rebel 1100 platform has proven to be a big hit with American cruiser customers, so we’re excited to both improve and deepen the roster for 2025,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “The entire platform now boasts more comfortable ergonomics, and the new Rebel 1100 DCT SE comes straight from the dealership with premium styling features. It’s clear that Honda values cruiser customers and takes their needs seriously.”
In addition to unveiling the Rebel 1100 platform, Honda confirmed the return of several other two-wheel models from five different categories: the head-turning Fury and timeless Shadow Phantom cruisers, the legendary Africa Twin and compact NX500 adventure bikes, the iconic XR650L dual-sport machine, the versatile CBR500R sport bike, and the stylish and affordable CB500F naked motorcycle.
*****
For details, colors/price/etc., on the bikes listed below click this link.
2025 Rebel 1100 2025 Fury 2025 Shadow Phantom
2025 Africa Twin 2025 NX500 2025 XR650L
2025 CBR500R2025 CB500F
Hey, I did not even know they still made the Fury!
I must admit, as a child my parents asked me that question many times. As an adult, I still get that inquisitive look and even if the words are not said, the eyes shout that question to some degree. When I first told friends that I was going to volunteer to get up early, keep my eyes on the track, and pick up crashed motorcycles at the races I both saw and heard “why,” or in a few cases “how did you arrange that?”
Until 2012, the only races I watched were Olympic Track and Field races. I did not watch or follow any motorsport racing. I first started watching motorcycle racing when my son, who was 14 at the time, did a research paper on Valentino Rossi. He and I accepted the invitation of a friend to watch the MotoGP races at his place. After several Sundays of watching races, my interest rose and I began studying the rules, regulations, classes, and riders.
Two years later I was hosting MotoGP watch parties at a local BBQ joint in the “party room” and inviting people in the area who either already watched, had the same curiosity I had a few years ago, or were just looking for a way to hang out and meet others who rode. We would connect the laptop to a big TV and watch the replay of races that often happened in the early hours of the morning, as they were held overseas. Some years we had door prizes from local dealerships and shops for attendees at the first and last races of the year.
Opening Race 2023 was well attended and full of fun and excitement.
When it was announced the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, TX was hosting a MotoGP round in 2013, I decided to attend with some friends. The live action was amazing and I was hooked. Before the event, I had received an email from one of the track marshal organizers asking if I would share the request for volunteers with my Christian Motorcyclists Association friends (at the time I was part of the North Texas Leadership Team). I knew nothing about track marshaling or what it entailed, so I passed the information on to others but did not volunteer myself.
Two years later with my son being 18 years old, we researched what track marshals did and both registered to volunteer at the 2015 race. (flaggers and rider assist positions were also available). Our volunteer applications were accepted and we were able to learn even more that weekend at COTA. It was a fun experience and to see and hear the bike go by that close to us was something you couldn’t get from normal seating at the track. I returned to volunteer in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2023, and again this year, 2024. I also was a track marshal for the 2023 MotoAmerica round at COTA. The MotoAmerica paddock is more open and fans are allowed a lot more access to riders.
My son and I were waiting for the trailer to take MotoGP Legend Andrea Dovizioso’s bike that ran out of fuel on the cool-down lap. Dovi placed 2nd and had already caught a ride to the podium celebration.
So why do I volunteer three full days to be a track marshal?
1) A love for motorcycle racing and the view of the races is the best you can get. You not only see the races, you feel the races. DO NOT volunteer if you are trying to get content for social media – there are strict rules concerning personal cameras, cell phones etc…
2) The opportunity to help provide a safe (as much as possible) racing environment for the riders.
3) To help represent the USA on a world stage by being part of a high-quality track marshal team.
4) The chance to promote, and encourage motorcycling in America. Without volunteers, most racing series would not survive.
5) The chance to meet volunteers from around the world i.e. Czech Republic, Australia, Mexico, England, and others. I now have friends in many other countries that I have met while volunteering at these events. One friend, Roberto, I now pick up at the Austin airport and he stays with me and other friends who attend the race at a rental house for the weekend.
6) The opportunity to walk the paddock and meet riders and their team members when allowed. While there isn’t always a ton of time during the weekend, occasionally there will be opportunities to experience some of the event as a fan as well.
7) The opportunity to share your passion for motorcycling and motorcycling racing.
What is needed to be a track marshal volunteer?
1) Willingness and commitment. Please DO NOT accept a volunteer position and then not attend. Each year I am surprised at the number of “no-shows” that take place. One year over 100 volunteers didn’t show! The volunteer organizers work hard every year to recruit, rearrange, and fill in as needed to make sure America does not fail MotoGP.
2) A good attitude. This is not the place for egos. People need to be flexible, humble, helpful, and willing to follow instructions. The only line to be “drawn in the sand” is one’s safety.
3) Willingness to attend virtual training sessions before the race weekend. Usually one or two training sessions of 1 to 1.5 hours.
4) Understanding and commitment to do your best regardless of the weather conditions. Rain, cold, or hot and sometimes all three in one weekend can happen, but the races go on.
5) Come with a humble attitude and willingness to follow directions given by experienced team members. Not following instructions can lead to problems and/or injuries.
The global MotoGP feed is running while I help Aleix Espargaro #41 after a high-speed crash
What do track volunteers get for their time and efforts?
1) The best seats in the house! Nothing blocking the view of the race as they ride by your station.
2) Breakfast, lunch and dinner is provided. Water and sports drinks are provided at each station during each day.
3) Opportunities to walk on the track, meet riders, and be a part of the event
4) “Swag bag” for each volunteer. Items in the bag may change but each year I have received a custom volunteer cap, t-shirt, race program book, and other items. Past goodies have included a COTA or MotoGP mug, sunglasses, a keychain, sunscreen, a small notebook, etc.
5) Free parking (at the volunteer lot)
6) Three complimentary tickets to share with friends or family. Each ticket is good for one entry so one person can enter each day or three could enter for one day. This year (2024) my complimentary tickets helped two friends get seats on the starting grid opposite the VIP suites and stands!
7) A satisfaction and sense of pride in being a part of the team ensuring the event is successful.
Celebrating with Joe Roberts after finishing 2nd in Moto2 – first American to finish on the podium at an American GP since Ben Spies in 2011 at Indianapolis. Joe took my flag on the celebration ride and garage celebration.
What are the “value-added” aspects of being a track marshal?
1) Meet other race fans and make new friends from all over the United States and the world. Over the years there have been track marshals from Australia, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, Ukraine, South Africa, and others!
2) Future preference when volunteering to marshal other racing events, including MotoAmerica and Formula 1 (provided you fulfill your commitment and aren’t one of the “difficult” marshals). Leadership will even help if you want to try to marshal at an international race!
3) Potential opportunity to help riders who have gone down, and see the most expensive, high-powered motorcycles in the world up close!
4) To be a small part of the MotoGP World Championship and the racing excitement that has made you a fan of the sport. As I mentioned before, they rely heavily on volunteers to make these events operate smoothly and continue to be something we can enjoy for years to come
5) For riders who enjoy track days, club racing, or are considering either can see the best of the world and get a clearer idea of advanced riding techniques.
2018 Valentino Rossi’s bike getting prepared for the race.
What jobs are available for volunteers and what do they do?
Track Marshal – check track for debris before and between races, quickly assist a down rider restart or remove the bike (“be quick but don’t rush’), help ensure riders safely get off the track.
Flaggers – when appropriate or directed display the appropriate flag to communicate with the riders track situations or conditions.
Rider Assist – assist medic in cases where a rider is injured.
*** All three positions work as a team to ensure the safety of riders and volunteers. ***
How does one go about volunteering?
1) Visit the Circuit of the Americas volunteer page and register.
2) Visit the MotorsportsReg page and search for the event you want to work.
5) Visit the webpage of the track you want to marshal at and search for the volunteer tab.
Not all motorcycle races have the same volunteer organizers, so you may have to search the internet or call the track. Volunteers are needed at all levels and all types of motorcycle racing so there are a lot of opportunities. Give it a try and I believe you will find it rewarding.
About Thomas
Thomas Osburn , native Texan recently moved to Pulaski, Tennessee to get closer to my wife’s family. Thomas Retired in 2022 after 36 years in public education – teacher, coach and then campus administration for the last 19 years.
Started riding in 2004 – currently I own a 2022 Indian Pursuit. He have organized, led and completely run an annual summer motorcycle tour since 2006. This summer there are 14 individuals going on my “Beat The Heat Tour 2024” to East Tennessee/NC.
He has been a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association since 2004 and was a part of the Texas State leadership team 2013-2023.
In 2017 he attended the MotoGP races at Mugello, Italy. After the race he rented a motorcycle in Milan, Italy and rode for a week in the Alps (Switzerland and Italy).
In 2018 he and three friends and rode to Homer, Alaska and back.
His son, Richard, is an assistant sales manager at Laconia Harley Davidson. If you are ever in that area Thomas would like you to stop by and to say high as see it he can help you out.
Downshift: MOTOGP and World Superbike now on NBCSC– NBC now has the multi-year rights to both MOTOGP and World Superbike motorcycle racing in the US market. I found out about this when I tried to DVR World Superbike this past weekend.
NBCSC will open their MOTOGP coverage with the race in Qatar (not anymore) the rest will air either on NBC or NBCSC either live or tape delay. OR you can watch live on their streaming service, where it appears that MOTO2 and MOTO3 will only be available.
World Superbike is getting 6 races televised but it appears that only 2 will air live, based on their timing.
My Take: As much as BEIN Sports was maligned for the numbers of households it was in, at least they televised all the races! So, based on this how do I politely say NBCSC AND DORNA YOU SUCK? NBC how much did you pay to not show the races?
OH, but I can buy your NBC steaming packages? Why would I give you that money when I can pay MOTOGP and World Superbike directly, for the same thing?
DORNA you really don’t want motorcycle racing to succeed in the USA do you?
NBCSC is doing a poor job with Supercross (it is listed as motocross for DVR purposes) why would I think it would do any better with the other forms of motorcycle racing?
*****
Neutral: MOTOGP in Qatar & Thailand Canceled – The Corona Virus has forced a prudent action of cancelling the first two races of the 2020 MOTOGP season in both. There was some question regarding MOTO2 and MOTO3 classes as they were already in Qatar preparing for the race. But that question has been answered, they are racing in Qatar.
The second race, Thailand was rescheduled for October.
Additionally, DORNA is considering hold races with out the fans. Not sure how that would work out for the tracks? My understanding is that they make most of their money on those race weekends from the fans. Selling 100,000 hot dogs puts the money in their pocket.
My Take: It was the prudent thing to do. For all you Marc Marquez haters, yes, it is a conspiracy to allow him to get healthy! LOL
This is a fast changing situation…I going to try and keep up!
The DawgHouse Motorcycle Radio…The #1 Motorcycle Show in the US
Motocross from High Point! 250’s -Big P Aaron Plessinger takes full advantage of Osborne’s absence. Alex Martin has issues that cost him points. 450’s – Eli Tomac and Marvin Musquin really go at it, the first time Tomac looked normal this year.
Flat track from OKC – .02 separates 1st to 3rd in the singles! No changes in the 450s (Twins LOL).
MotoGP was in Catalunya – Moto 2 was a crazy race. Quartararo? Oliveria starts in 17th? Crazy day in Moto2! In MOTOGP who would have thunk JLo? Or Rabat flaming out?
Summit Point Raceway in the local news…just might impact local motorcycle racers and track days.
Warren takes a road trip to Custom Dynamics to check out their HQ.
Downshift: 
Neutral: 
I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!! 