I sat down recently with Jim McDowell of MotoPod for a MotoAmerica special where we look back at last season and then ahead to 2023. Here's a link to the show for anyone interested: MotoPod (motopodcast.com) No earth-shattering news or nothing you haven't probably seen or heard here or elsewhere but a little something to help get thru to the start of the season. One listener sent in below feedback after listening (feedback can be sent to: [email protected]). "Thank you for the great education on this series. I am hoping to go to the NJ race after listening." If just one fan was gained for the series, it makes taking the time to do the show well worth the effort!
Interesting that Cam Peterson is switching to Shark helmets here in MA. Weren’t they basically banned because of the no emergency release?
I was kind of hoping Ty Scott might go with Max Toth. But getting minors to Europe to race is a whole 'nother ball game I think. Wouldn't a parent need to move with them?
Never heard that about Shark. Danilo Lewis uses Shark and I've seen a couple others over the years with Shark. Shark still doesn't have "emergency release" cheekpads. Until they make whatever changes based off of XXX cheekpads that Moto Racing Gear talked about. https://twitter.com/motoracinggear?lang=en But I know Shark are quick to adapt and react. I've got the Race R Pro and Pro GP. Same type snap in cheekpads in each. What would hinder EMS is their additional chin curtain on both versions.
The other interesting news was that TLD is the new importer for Shark and Nolan. I think you’ll see more of both on the grids. is the emergency release thing accurate? No idea but that’s what I “heard.” Take it for what it’s worth: whispers and free napkins with a grande starsmucks coffee.
Makes sense but dunno. Sort of conflicting info if so, as I helped 2 riders with their Shark helmets last year. Neither had QR cheekpads. FWIW, Shark did buy the Nolan group back in 2019. So makes sense that TLD is selling both.
Troy Lee Designs was a part of SBJ Capital from 2016 until last year, then SBJ Capital sold Troy Lee Designs to 2ride group which is backed by Eurazeo last March. So, I'm not sure how TLD is the new importer for those helmets?
n 2005, AtriA Capital Partners acquired 2R Holdings, which included Shark. Among its first business moves was to open a sales subsidiary in the United Kingdom; by the following year, it had expanded to Germany. In 2008, Eurazeo bought out the Teston brothers, giving the company a controlling interest of 57%. Tucker Rocky is Exclusive Distributor for SHARK Helmets in the U.S. - Racer X (racerxonline.com) In 2006 TR was the exclusive Shark distributor? And as of October, last year Tucker departs from Arai? Feb 2020 The 2Ride Holding Group, which is the parent company of the French brand Shark that makes helmets, acquired the parent company of the Italian brand Nolan. Nolan’s parent company also owns Grex and X-lite helmets. These are popular brands in Europe but not super popular in North America. 2Ride Holding Group owns several brands. Many of those brands we don’t see much here in North America, either. So, while Shark and Nolan are the big names here, this deal really is a bigger deal in Europe where many of these other brands are sold. However, RideApart notes that this acquisition could help 2Ride’s brands become bigger players in the North American market. The president of 2Ride Holding Group said that the two companies are working together now to “optimise all this Italian, French and European expertise in order to offer our global consumers more protective and easier-to-use products.” Wow things are really fucked up in the helmet business IMO
I can confirm that Veloce Racing in its previous form will not be returning for 2023. It was a good run and lots of fun but the one constant thing is that change happens. I can also confirm that the remnants from that team will be coming together to put forth a race effort for 2023. As with a lot of self funded teams, lots still up in the air but the updated bikes and equipment have been secured and ready to run the season. I'm confident the riders on the new team will have what it takes podium - some are familiar faces with proven results. Don't give up on a competitive Twins grid for 2023!
Sean Bice: Paasch will race in the Daytona 200 again for TOBC Racing, but I do not know if they'll do the entire MotoAmerica season. It is doubtful since they've only been Daytona specialists for the past several years.
Sad news from the Olmedo camp: https://www.roadracingworld.com/news/motoamerica-rare-condition-paralyzed-olmedo-who-now-works-to-recover/ Hope he recuperates... and fast !
He already did 2 years over in Europe, one year in RBRC and one in CEV, but I agree, hopefully he returns to Europe.
All in favor for ditching that Royal Enfield race at Road America and replacing it with Twins Cup say "I"! http://www.motoamericaregistration.com/PDF/Bulletins/Competitor Bulletin 03-2023.pdf
I was just thinking this.. Michael Gilbert was rocking an M4 Zook at chuckwalla this past weekend. He came in 3rd during the shootout (the big $$$$ race). Glad to see him back!
Seems the announcements are going to start coming now. https://www.roadracingworld.com/new...e-re-sign-with-vision-wheel-m4-ecstar-suzuki/