Latest news with #WhitesPowersports
Scoop
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scoop
New Zealand's Premier Motorcycle Series Welcomes Official Tyre Supplier
Racers in all categories of next year's Star Insure NZ Superbike Championship Series will be starting out with one thing in common – Bridgestone tyres. The move to a single-make official tyre is one of the key initiatives introduced by promoter Mike Marsden to the new-look series. "It was a big step and one that had to happen in my mind," says Marsden, who took over promotion of the series last year. "The championship was dying and there was a need for big changes to not only boost the profile of the series, but also give riders better value and I am really pleased to now have the support of the paddock on this. "An official tyre was a top priority, and was always going to be a challenge, but we have now achieved that, which is a critical step along the path to the commercial viability and sustainability of the Series. "Bridgestone Moto NZ, through New Zealand importer Whites Powersports, have come on board with a great package, which means riders will be getting cheaper race tyres and a level of service not seen before at the top level.' Marsden says official tyres are a proven model in motorsports worldwide, offering financial stability for a racing series and providing the resources for reinvestment into the sport. As part of the deal, Star Insure NZSBK riders will pay 15% less for the already cost-effective Bridgestone racing tyres, while tyres for the Supersport 150cc class will be free. 'The fundamental outcome for us is to assist in making road-racing in New Zealand cheaper and more accessible to the racing community,' Whites Powersports Group General Manager Adrian Cox says.'We will also provide a consistent supply of stock to ensure a better service and experience for the NZSBK participants.' Bridgestone Moto NZ, through Whites Powersports, are making it fast and easy for racers and track day enthusiasts to access Bridgestone's racing tyre options. As of this week, Bridgestone racing products can be bought on and will be shipped directly to the buyer. Shipping cost is calculated at checkout with a maximum fee of $60, and all tyres sold will incur a regulation Tyrewise Tyre Stewardship Fee, as per Tyrewise requirements. In addition, 2026 Star Insure NZSBK Series entrants will get a further discount on racing products to help create a fairer and more cost-effective series. The special pricing will be available only to those racers with a confirmed NZSBK Series entry. Some competitors are already seeing value from the switch and looking forward to the benefits. Rogan Chandler, who finished third overall in the 2025 Star Insure NZSBK Superbike Series, raced a Bridgestone-shodM1 Motorsport BMW all through last season. "They are certainly competitive," Chandler says. "We were at the pointy end all season. "Of course, some setup changes will be required for most bikes and the riders will have to adapt also, but that's racing. "I'm looking forward to seeing the setup direction people take and what I and the team can learn from the rest of the field." Multi NZSBK Champion Sloan Frost has been using Bridgestone tyres with his son Nixon in the 300 class. "Nixon recently did back-to-back tests with Bridgestone tyres on the 300 and found the bike was more stable without any set up changes which resulted in consistent lap times within 10thsof the lap record throughout an entire day of racing," Frost says."We were so impressed with the tyre that we have decided to compete in Australian championship on Bridgestone's also. "I think it's a great direction for the New Zealand championship to have a constant supply at competitive pricing. "With the consistency of grip level that we see from the Bridgestone tyres we will be able to reduce consumption, waste and costs while maintaining a level playing field." Helicraft Racing's Tyler King and Harriet Grace have also tested the new official tyres at a recent Ruapuna meeting and both were impressed. While team owner Rod Price worked through suspension, geometry and tyre pressure changes on Tyler's MV Agusta 800,Harriet rode her Yamaha R3 without changes. "The tyres were good . . . We think they'll be fine," Tyler says. "The Bridgestone's were great. They felt super grippy and I was very comfortable to push on them – and get a new PB lap!" Harriet says.
Irish Independent
06-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
‘A black day for motorsport' – Tributes paid after two riders die in 11-man bike crash
Owen Jenner, in action at Brands Hatch last year, died in an 11-man crash yesterday. Photo:Tributes have been paid from fellow superbike riders after Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson tragically died in a British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park on Monday. Police have launched an investigation following the 11-man crash at the first corner of the opening lap. The race was immediately stopped and the event was cancelled. Jenner, 21, was treated trackside and taken to the medical centre but died from a catastrophic injury to the head. Richardson, 29, was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with severe injuries but sadly passed away before his arrival. Tom Tunstall, 47, is being treated at Royal Stoke University Hospital for significant back and abdominal injuries. Five other riders, Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes and Morgan McLaren-Wood were treated for minor injuries while three other riders escaped unharmed. Fellow superbike riders quickly paid emotional and heartfelt tributes on social media later on Monday. 'Is a black day for motorsport with terrible losses, ride in peace my friend,' said British Superbike rider Jaimie van Sikkelerus. Rory Skinner, 23, posted on Instagram: 'Don't have a lot to say… gutted is an understatement. 'The sport can be too cruel at times. Thoughts and condolences to everyone and their families involved in today's incident.' Isle of Man TT multiple race winner and British Superbike rider Peter Hickman said on Tuesday: 'Gutted beyond belief. Our sport can be so cruel sometimes. My thoughts are with all the families of everyone involved in that tragic accident yesterday. Ride in peace boys.' South African rider Blaze Baker posted: 'Absolutely devastated, very sad day today. My thoughts are with both families in this very tough time.' Jamie Davis posted: 'What a horrible day for racing. My thoughts are with every family and or friends.' Jenner, who was from Crowborough in East Sussex, won the 2024 British GP2 championship and was signed to the Rapid Honda team. Richardson, from New Zealand, was in the Astro JJR HIPPO Suzuki team. Whites Powersports, a sponsor of Mr Richardson, said on Instagram they were 'extremely saddened' by the news of his death. Motorsport Vision Racing (MSVR), who are responsible for circuit operations at Oulton Park, and the Motorcycle Racing Control Board said in a statement on Monday night that they are 'investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.' The Supersport Championship, which started its 2025 season at Oulton Park over the bank holiday weekend, is a support class to the main British Superbike series. Superbikes are highly modified vehicles, and the organisers said they are 'both quick and powerful' with engines up to 200bhp (brake horsepower). A Cheshire Police Statement read: "Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon. "Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries."
