All posts by fimafrica

WADE YOUNG SECURES 8TH ROOF OF AFRICA VICTORY

Provisional Results as at 10 am Sunday 3 December

The 2023 Roof of Africa, set against the stunning backdrop of the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho from 27th November to 2nd December, provided one of the most challenging races in recent memory due to the scorching heat and dry conditions experienced across all three days. Unlike the torrential rain of last year’s event, this edition presented a new test for riders, with dehydration and heat exhaustion taking its toll across the entire field.

It seems Wade Young (Sherco – Powered by Motul) is unfazed by weather and he reaffirmed his mastery over the event this weekend by starting with a win on Thursday in the Round the Houses race and a sensible 5th place position in the tricky Time Trial. The first full day of racing (Day 1) saw him steadily work his way to the front, establishing a commanding 25-minute lead over Matt Green (KTM) and Brett Swanepoel on his Motul backed Trademore Sherco. Swanepoel’s performance on the day was particularly impressive because it included losing over 20 minutes at the start due to a mechanical glitch, a big crash which resulted in broken toes and later, a head-on collision with an Adventure bike to round out an eventful day.

Day 2 evolved into a tactical back-and-forth amongst a small group of riders, with lead positions changing multiple times. While 17-year-old sensation James Moore (RIDE KTM Durban) ended up setting the fastest time of Day 2, Young remained in firm contention throughout the day on his Sherco 300 SEF Factory edition, eventually securing a hard-earned victory with a margin of just under 20 minutes from Green, followed by Swanepoel who trailed Green by a mere 3 minutes in the overall standings.

“The last climb on Day 1 broke most of the riders and that helped me build the lead that I worked hard to maintain to the end. I didn’t have the best day today, but I still pushed as hard as I could and I’m happy it was enough to get the win. I have to say I have never been this tired at the end of a race in my entire career, the days were just so long and the heat only made it worse,” said a relieved Young at the finish.

The extremity of the conditions led to multiple retirements across all classes, with incidents like Will Slater (Brother Leadertread KTM) needing to be airlifted out of contention due to heat exhaustion on Day 1. Travis Teasdale (Husqvarna), another pre-race favorite, also battled with the heat on Day 1 and despite starting out on Day 2, did not make it to the finish.

Sherco celebrated several exceptional performances in the challenging conditions over the weekend with podium finishes in Gold with Young (1st) and Swanepoel (3rd) and a commendable 6th position for American star Cody Webb, who was participating in his first Roof and was astounded by just how tough the conditions were. In the Bronze class, Louis-Bresler Knipe delivered a dominant performance on board his Sherco 500 SEF 4-stroke, securing overall victory with an 18-minute lead over the biggest field in the race.

Sherco also won the Manufacturers title this year and very nearly achieved a triumphant hat-trick across the top 3 classes, but after a fierce battle with Tate Stroh (Yamaha), Daniel Peckham (Trademore Sherco), had to settle for 2nd place in the Silver class, followed by Grant Burton-Durham (Vamos Racing Gas Gas). The top finishing Lady at this year’s event was Terri-Lynn Hodge (Trademore Sherco) after Kirsten Landman (ASP Rope Access KTM) retired with mechanical problems early on Day 1.

Mercia Jansen, General Manager South and East Africa for Motul shared her experience of the event this year, “The Kingdom of Lesotho once again delivered some extreme weather conditions, this was the first completely dry and hot Roof since 2016 and it pushed the riders and their machines to the absolute limit! The Roof really is the ultimate test for our products and that’s why we love it. We also love seeing the industry gather at the event, its like a big reunion and we all love being here to give back to the racing community.”

For the final results go to this Link on Race Control.

To learn more about Motul’s product range and commitment to motorsports, visit https://www.motul.com/za/en

ABOUT MOTUL
Motul is a world-class French company with 170 years of experience in the specialised formulation, production and distribution of high-tech engine lubricants (for two-wheelers, cars and other vehicles) as well as lubricants for industry via its Motul Tech division.
Since its inception in 1853, Motul has been recognised for the quality of its products, commitment to innovation and involvement in competition, and is also acknowledged as a specialist in synthetic lubricants. In 1971, Motul was the first lubricant manufacturer to pioneer the formulation of a 100% synthetic lubricant, derived from the aeronautical industry and making use of esters technology: 300V lubricant.

Motul partners with many manufacturers and racing teams in order to further their technological product development through experience gained in motorsports. It has served as an official supplier for teams competing in iconic Road racing, Trials, Enduro, Endurance, Superbike, Supercross, Rallycross and World GT1 events, including 24 Hours of Le Mans (cars and motorcycles), 24 Hours of Spa, Le Mans Series, Andros Trophy, the Dakar Rally and the Roof of Africa.

Issued on behalf of Motul by Malcolm Joubert

WATCH 2023 FIM AWARDS – FREE ON FIM-MOTO.TV

Watch live and for free on FIM-MOTO.TV from 22.00hrs UK / 23.00hrs CET – Saturday 2nd December.

For those who are unable to join the forty-five attending 2023 FIM World Champions in person, as the FIM Awards are hosted for the first time ever in Great Britain this coming Saturday evening 2nd December, you will have the opportunity to watch the entire medal ceremony live and for free on FIM-MOTO.TV

Be part of this unique and special occasion from the comfort of your own home as motorcycling’s finest heroes and heroines take to the stage at the impressive riverside venue in the famous city of Liverpool to collect their hard earned and well-deserved gold medals.

With seven hundred guests – which will include the attending 2023 FIM World Champions, FIM Promoters, FIM Partners, National Federations, FIM Board Members and representatives from the wider global motorcycle community / industry – set to tread the red carpet ahead of the main ceremony, you too can feel part of this incredible and season ending celebration of two-wheel sport.

Watch the 2023 FIM Awards here

MOTUL’S BIKE WASH AT ROOF OF AFRICA 2023: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

As an extension of being the official lubricant partner of the Roof of Africa, Motul will once again offer every competitor (in Iron, Bronze, Silver and Gold classes) the opportunity to keep their machines clean and race-ready for the start of each new grueling race day. With this year’s edition of “The Mother of Hard Enduro” coming up fast (30 Nov – 2 Dec), here’s the low-down on what to expect at the Bike Wash this year.

  1. Environmental Emphasis
    Motul’s commitment to environmental sustainability shines through at the Roof of Africa Bike Wash, where the team will be utilising the Biodegradable Motul Moto Wash from their MC Care range. This powerful cleaner and degreaser is suitable for all types of motorcycles, while being gentle on the beautiful environment where the riders will find themselves in the Maloti Mountains. Motul’s commitment to environmental sustainability also extends to their product packaging with the majority of their range now being supplied in 50% PCR (Post Consumer Recycled) packaging.
  2. Strategically located for Convenience
    The Bike Wash setup is designed for the riders’ convenience. On Day 1, the facility will be stationed at the Maseru Mall, following the Round the Houses and Time Trial sections. On Day 2, the team will be setup at Bushman’s Pass, which is also the location for the DSP for the duration of the event.
  3. Enduring Partnerships
    At the core of this operation lies a partnership with Craig Kruger and his team from Extreme Clean that goes back to 2014. Craig will be managing the facility with his team of local legends, some of whom have been working at the Motul Bike Wash since 2016. Goscor Cleaning Equipment will once again be providing and supporting the pressure washers. This year the generators used at the Bike Wash will be running Motul Tekma Power X, their recently launched generator-specific oil that will keep these vital power units up and running at optimal capacity.
  4. Chain Maintenance
    An addition to this year’s offering at the Bike Wash facility, is a dedicated Chain Lube service. Riders can opt for their chains to be lubed with Motul’s renowned MC Care Chain Lube after each wash, ensuring peak performance in the rugged terrains of the Kingdom of Lesotho
  5. Camaraderie & Patience are key
    The Bike Wash team are committed to assisting as many riders as possible, however there are limitations when it comes to available space and staff. With a substantial field this year, it’s important that all riders show camaraderie and patience to ensure a smooth operation so that everyone will have an equal opportunity to make use of this free service.

“The Roof is always one of the highlights of the year for Motul because it allows us the opportunity to engage with our customers and showcase our products in some of the harshest off-road conditions that you will find. We have a long history with the Roof for this reason, and we’re proud to provide the Bike Wash to all competitors as a sign of our appreciation for the support we get from the racing community,” commented Mercia Jansen, Motul Area Manager for Southern and Eastern Africa and the Indian Ocean.

For all the latest Roof news and views in the run-up to the event, visit: https://theroofofafrica.com/

To learn more about Motul’s product range and commitment to motorsports, visit https://www.motul.com/za/en

ABOUT MOTUL
Motul is a world-class French company with 170 years of experience in the specialised formulation, production and distribution of high-tech engine lubricants (for two-wheelers, cars and other vehicles) as well as lubricants for industry via its Motul Tech division.
Since its inception in 1853, Motul has been recognised for the quality of its products, commitment to innovation and involvement in competition, and is also acknowledged as a specialist in synthetic lubricants. In 1971, Motul was the first lubricant manufacturer to pioneer the formulation of a 100% synthetic lubricant, derived from the aeronautical industry and making use of esters technology: 300V lubricant.
Motul partners with many manufacturers and racing teams in order to further their technological product development through experience gained in motorsports. It has served as an official supplier for teams competing in iconic Road racing, Trials, Enduro, Endurance, Superbike, Supercross, Rallycross and World GT1 events, including 24 Hours of Le Mans (cars and motorcycles), 24 Hours of Spa, Le Mans Series, Andros Trophy, the Dakar Rally and the Roof of Africa.

Issued on behalf of Motul

TEAM GREEN’S GOLDEN HANDSHAKE

What GXCC Cross Country Race Report
Where Carletonville, Gauteng
When Saturday 25 November 2023
Community Gauteng Regional

Kawasaki ends cross country season in winning style

Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Factory Racing with Scottish Cables and Motul closed its 2023 cross country season in winning style as the team clinched another two championships at the Carletonville GXCC Gauteng series finals on Saturday.

Jaycee Nienaber gave notice of is 2024 intentions when he stormed to a flag-to-flag overall and open class OR1 victory to snatch that class title. South African Masters champion Pieter Holl meanwhile added the regional title to his National title with another win on Saturday.

It was a case of what could have been for Wian Wentzel, who led until a last lap issue dropped him to fourth in 250cc OR3, but that was good enough for third in that chase. Young Jaden Boyce enjoyed a positive outing as he came to grips with his 250cc machine, while 65cc Junior lad Jake Pretorius stopped after taking a tumble.

It was a matter of do or die for Jaycee Nienaber, who had no option but to win to be sure to take the title. “I knew today that I needed to give it my all, “a delighted Jaycee explained. “Second just would not be good enough, I needed to get the top step on the podium. And yes, my Pepson Plastics Kawasaki didn’t miss a beat and we bought it home for the win!”

Jaycee indeed ended up tied on points with rival Ian Rall in the GXCC OR1 title chase, which meant that it was Saturday’s race win he had over Rall’s best of a second place, that tipped the scales Nienaber’s way to bring the championship in an epic end. “Today man and machine were a formidable team and nothing was going to stop us. Huge thanks to Iain and our incredible Pepson Plastics team for making it happen. Northern Regions and GXCC OR1 champion, what a win!”

Masters champion Pieter Holl was proud to fix his second red number one plate to his Kawasaki on Saturday as he added the regional and GXCC titles to his 2023 national championship on Saturday. “Today was another special day in a wonderful year as I added the GXCC Masters title to my national championship,” Pieter admitted.

“I rode my brand new bike with my old suspension and It worked well today. I was second earlier on, before I made my move on Wayne Farmer for the lead in the dust. I then stopped to help a guy who fell hard and had to pass Wayne a second time, so I am more than happy with this win, even though Carletonville is not my favourite race because it’s dangerous in the dust.

“Iain kept me up to speed throughout from the pits, so I could plan to race as always and that’s just one small reason why I have him and my Pepson Plastics Kawasaki team to thank for these double championships. It’s been an incredible year and I am so grateful for what everyone has done to make this happen!

Wian Wentzel was disappointed to end fourth in OR3 as he clinched third in that title chase. “What a day!” Wian smiled’ “I finally figured out my start which put me in a good position and I made a pass for the lead on lap 2. “I however had to nurse a small hole in my radiator and then I made a small mistake, which cost me the win.

“So it goes with racing, the tough days make you stronger. All in all I had a good season and a lot of positives to look back on.” Wian goes straight in for surgery on the shoulder injury that blighted him all season on Monday. “I’m looking forward to a good break as I recuperate and can’t wait to come back swinging next year!”

“We certainly ended the 2023 season in style at the Carletonville GXCC,” Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Factory Racing with Scottish Cables and Motul team boss Iain Pepper concluded. “Congratulations to Pieter and Jaycee on their splendid winning performances today and through your championship winning GXCC season. “You have done us proud.

“Wian was a little unlucky today with his mistake on the last lap, but we look forward to seeing him back fitter and faster next yea. Pity, because that win would have given us a full house of championships we entered on Saturday. Well done Jaden on your ride today, and Jake, you rode like a star until your big crash. Jake has big things coming next year.

Also a word of thanks to all our other riders and every team member for another great effort throughout 2023. Now it’s time to take stock, rest, and regenerate for the season ahead. Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Factory Racing will be back and fighting for more wins and more titles in 2024!”

*Pepson Plastics Scottish Cables Motul Kawasaki Factory Racing salutes Gilberts Mining & Engineering, the Reinhardt Transport Group, Michelin, Arai, Bikewise, Acerbis and Renthal handlebars for their support.

Issued on behalf of Kawasaki Cross Country

Photography by: Action in Motion

HONDA CLOSES CROSS COUNTRY SEASON IN STYLE

What GXCC Cross Country Race Report
Where Carletonville, Gauteng
When Saturday 25 November 2023
Community South Africa National

Another win and another title at Gauteng GXCC finals

Franchise Co Tork Craft Honda Wing Racing closed its Cross Country racing season in style. The team delivered another win, and another title to its splendid 2023 racing tally at the GXCC Gauteng championship finals in Carletonville on Saturday.

Seniors rider Wynand Delport continued Team Red’s domination of the GXCC over-30 class with the final win. At the other end of the scale, Liam Scheepers took a fine second to close his 85 Junior season on a high, while Tyron Beverly also ended second in 250 cc OR3. Franchise Co Tork Craft Honda Wing Racing open class OR1 riders Hayden Louw and John Botha meanwhile stormed home third and fourth overall, and in class.

“That’s a marvellous end to Franchise Co Tork Craft Honda Wing Racing’s 2023 season and we have so many reasons to celebrate,” team boss Harry Grobler wrapped it up. “Congratulations one and all to every member of our brilliant team on a great year of racing. Today we celebrate a double championship as Murray Smith dominated the 85 cc Junior season to take both those national and Gauteng class titles.

“Also, huge congratulations to Wynand Delport on a fine first win on Saturday, not to mention a exceptional effort by each of Liam, Tyron, Hayden, and John over the past weekend. You all made us proud. As did the rest of the team, notably Mike Pentecost second on the national OR1 chase, Louwrens Mahoney the runner-up in National Seniors, and every other rider who played a part in a great season. Well done all of you!

“Now we can relax, unwind and come back fresh and ready for a whole new season with new challenges, new races to win and new champions to crown. See you early 2024!”

*Honda Racing salutes its partners, Tork Craft Tools, The Franchise Co, Sleepover Motels, CIT Accessories, Motul Oils, Mitas, Leatt Protectives, Pollisport, TNT Nutrition, Galfermoto brakes & Nitro Mousse

Issued on behalf of Honda Cross Country

Photography by: Action in Motion