For anyone who has experienced the thrill of both MotoGP and Formula 1, it’s clear that the sound of MotoGP bikes is unmatched. The thunderous roar of the motorcycles, powered by their naturally aspirated engines, far surpasses the quieter tones of F1’s turbo-hybrid engines. This auditory experience is not just a matter of volume; it’s about a visceral connection to the power and speed of the machines.
In an exciting development for motorcycle racing enthusiasts, Harley-Davidson and Dorna Sports have recently announced a partnership that will introduce a new racing series in Europe, reminiscent of the popular U.S.-based King of the Baggers series. This initiative aims to showcase American-made cruisers, weighing around 600 pounds, equipped with outboard Öhlins suspension and powerful V-twin engines. Fans can expect to see these impressive machines racing on iconic tracks, such as Silverstone’s Hamilton Straight and the challenging circuits of the Spanish Grand Prix.
This move by Harley-Davidson is strategically focused on revitalizing its presence in the European market. Historically, the brand has enjoyed considerable success across the Atlantic, but in recent years, it has faced increasing competition from German, Austrian, and British motorcycle manufacturers. By launching this new racing series, Harley aims to capture the attention of European audiences, leveraging its cultural significance in the United States to enhance the appeal of motorcycle racing on a global scale.
Harley-Davidson’s initiative is also a calculated effort to boost the visibility of motorcycle racing in America. Dorna Sports hopes that this collaboration will attract more American fans to the sport, thanks to Harley’s iconic status in the U.S. motorcycle culture.
Despite the undeniable allure of bagger racing, attracting a substantial U.S. audience remains a significant challenge. The appeal of bagger racing is far from mundane. Having witnessed two King of the Baggers events, I can attest to the excitement they offer. While this upcoming series may not fall under the exact ‘King of the Baggers’ banner due to the absence of Indian Motorcycle, it promises to deliver exhilarating races that showcase the capabilities of these heavyweight machines.
The spectacle is amplified by the sound of a V-twin engine generating around 200 horsepower, creating a thrilling auditory experience that resonates across the racetrack. Watching skilled riders maneuver these hefty baggers with the same finesse as motocross bikes is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The combination of speed, power, and skill makes for heart-pounding entertainment.
However, despite the excitement surrounding these races, the attendance and viewership have not always reflected the spectacle of the event. For instance, at the Circuit of the Americas, which serves as MotoGP’s American home, the crowds were present, yet many spectators seemed indifferent to the support races. This was surprising, especially considering COTA’s history of drawing massive crowds, with over 350,000 fans attending F1 events prior to the surge in popularity from Netflix’s coverage.
The atmosphere at that first F1 race at COTA was electrifying, filled with energy and excitement. However, the same cannot be said for the MotoGP events in recent years. Although the fans are there, the level of engagement with motorcycle racing in the U.S. has yet to reach the heights seen in Europe.
Motorcycle racing is certainly not lacking in the United States. From motocross to bagger racing, and from super hooligan events to superbike competitions, there is a diverse array of motorcycle racing events happening regularly. Yet, the enthusiasm that European audiences display for MotoGP and motorcycle racing as a whole remains elusive in the U.S.
Nevertheless, there is optimism for the future of motorcycle racing in America. As a passionate fan of the sport, I yearn for greater visibility and interest in motorcycle racing here. My hopes rest on the transformative potential of Liberty Media’s recent acquisition of MotoGP. The success of Formula 1 in expanding its fan base in the U.S. since Liberty Media’s takeover serves as a compelling case study. The remarkable growth of F1, where fans proudly don Max Verstappen merchandise even in small towns across Utah, showcases the power of strategic marketing and engagement.
The playbook that Liberty Media has employed for F1 could very well be applied to MotoGP, potentially leading to a surge in its popularity. The combination of Harley-Davidson’s new series and the marketing prowess of Liberty Media could be the catalyst needed to elevate motorcycle racing in the United States.
As an American motorcycle racing fan, I am thrilled at the prospect of Harley-Davidson’s involvement in MotoGP, and I hope it will help garner increased interest and attendance. The roar of the engines, the speed of the bikes, and the skill of the riders all contribute to a dynamic spectacle that deserves a larger audience. The integration of Harley’s cultural significance in American motorcycling with the global appeal of MotoGP has the potential to create a thrilling new chapter for motorcycle racing in both the U.S. and Europe.
This partnership could signify the dawn of a new era for motorcycle racing, one where American fans embrace the excitement and passion that comes with it. The stage is set for a thrilling future, and as we look forward to the launch of this new racing series, the hope is that it will not only bring the noise but also attract a passionate fanbase that celebrates the rich culture of motorcycle racing.
