“Racing is a core pillar of the Harley-Davidson brand, showcasing our commitment to performance and innovation,” stated Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President, and CEO of Harley-Davidson at the first test of the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Road Glide. Zeitz was joined by top racers, European legends and the media in conjunction with DORNA and MotoGP at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Monday, November 18.
“Partnering with DORNA/MotoGP, we aim to expand our racing footprint globally, fueling the passions of our customers and fans,” Zeitz explained. This MotoGP test is a pivotal first step in realizing these ambitions and demonstrating our dedication to racing excellence.”
“Harley-Davidson is an iconic brand, and we are always interested in ways to partner with them to attract more fans to MotoGP, the most exciting sport on Earth,” added Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of DORNA Sports.
Kyle Wyman and James Rispoli piloted their bikes on Monday following the MotoGP race on the 4.657 km (2.894 mi) 16-turn circuit. Cut to the chase already! How did they do? Despite overcast conditions preventing outright lap time attacks, Wyman and Rispoli turned in top speeds in excess of 171 MPH (275 KPH) on the fastest sections of the track. Additional guest riders included former MotoGP and World Superbike pilots, Simon Crafar, John Hopkins, Randy Mamola and Marco Melandri.
“We were riding alongside our heroes, and were able to share our body of work with people we respect so much,” said Wyman. “These are special moments, and memories I’ll not soon forget. I want to thank DORNA, Harley-Davidson and all of the staff who worked tirelessly to put on this event in the most challenging circumstances of recent events.”
Rispoli added, “What an amazing day for Harley-Davidson. To be on track at the same weekend as MotoGP was incredible. And to share this project with some legends of the sport was unreal. Their reactions after riding our bikes were priceless.”
“The torque is amazing, and the smoothness,” added Mamola. “This is why I’ve loved motorcycles since I was 12 years old. It’s a motorcycle. And it’s a freaking race bike. Everything is so sweet about the bike. Everything is in the right place. It stops really well. The transmission is insane, and it’s smooth.”
And in a further feel-good moment, Harley-Davidson donated a Road Glide to be auctioned off for MotoGP’s relief efforts for Barcelona. The MotoGP race had been moved to Barcelona after the disastrous flooding in the Valencia region.
