MotoAmerica is the premier motorcycle road racing championship in the United States, known for its high-speed competition, top-tier riders, and world-class circuits. Since its establishment in 2015, MotoAmerica has played a crucial role in revitalizing the sport, providing a platform for American racers to develop their skills and compete at international levels such as World Superbike (WorldSBK) and MotoGP. Under the leadership of legendary racer Wayne Rainey, MotoAmerica has grown in popularity, attracting major manufacturers, skilled riders, and dedicated fans who follow the action-packed series every year. With multiple racing classes, a structured development system, and intense rivalries on the track, MotoAmerica has established itself as the backbone of professional motorcycle racing in the U.S. This article will explore the history of MotoAmerica, its class structure, famous tracks, notable riders, and its impact on the future of motorcycle racing.

The Origins and Evolution of MotoAmerica

Before MotoAmerica, professional motorcycle racing in the United States was in decline. The AMA Superbike Championship, once a thriving racing series, suffered from decreasing manufacturer support, inconsistent regulations, and limited global recognition. This lack of stability made it difficult for American riders to transition to international racing, leaving the country with fewer representatives in MotoGP and WorldSBK.

Recognizing the need for change, the KRAVE Group, led by three-time 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Wayne Rainey, took control of the AMA Superbike Championship and rebranded it as MotoAmerica in 2015. The goal was clear: to rebuild American motorcycle racing by improving competition, attracting global attention, and creating a system that allowed riders to develop and compete on the world stage.

MotoAmerica introduced several key improvements, including modern technical regulations, enhanced safety measures, and increased media coverage. By securing broadcasting deals with networks like MAVTV, Fox Sports, and their own streaming service, MotoAmerica Live+, the series gained a wider audience, helping to rebuild enthusiasm for motorcycle racing in the U.S. Over the years, MotoAmerica has expanded its race calendar, introduced new classes, and strengthened its partnerships with manufacturers such as Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, Kawasaki, BMW, and Honda.

MotoAmerica Race Classes: A System for Every Rider

MotoAmerica features multiple race classes, each catering to different experience levels and motorcycle specifications. This structured system allows riders to start at the entry level and work their way up to the premier Superbike class, providing a clear pathway for career growth.

Superbike (Premier Class)

The MotoAmerica Superbike Championship is the highest level of competition, featuring modified 1000cc production motorcycles. These high-performance machines are equipped with advanced suspension, electronics, and braking systems, making them some of the fastest bikes on the track. Teams from Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, BMW, and Honda compete in this category, showcasing the best talent in American motorcycle racing.

Supersport

Supersport is a middleweight class featuring motorcycles with 600cc to 750cc engines. This class serves as a stepping stone for riders aiming to move up to Superbike. The bikes are similar to their stock counterparts but feature performance modifications, making the racing close and highly competitive.

Stock 1000

Stock 1000 is a class designed for riders transitioning to Superbike. The motorcycles in this class are similar to Superbikes but with fewer modifications, making the competition more about rider skill than machine superiority. It provides an affordable entry point for teams and racers looking to gain experience before moving to the premier class.

Twins Cup

Twins Cup features twin-cylinder motorcycles with engine sizes ranging from 650cc to 800cc. Bikes such as the Aprilia RS 660, Yamaha R7, and Suzuki SV650 are commonly seen in this class. The affordability and close competition make Twins Cup a fan favorite, as the racing is often unpredictable and exciting.

Junior Cup

The Junior Cup is designed for young riders aged 14 to 22, racing lightweight sportbikes such as the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Yamaha YZF-R3. This class helps develop the next generation of MotoAmerica stars, providing them with crucial race experience before moving up the ranks.

Mission King of the Baggers

One of the most unique and exciting classes in MotoAmerica, King of the Baggers features heavily modified touring motorcycles from Harley-Davidson and India. These large V-twin machines, originally designed for highway cruising, have been transformed into high-performance racing bikes capable of extreme lean angles and impressive speeds. The King of the Baggers series has gained a cult following, blending the worlds of cruiser motorcycles and competitive racing.

Roland Sands Super Hooligan Championship

This class features a mix of custom-built naked bikes and cruisers, creating an unpredictable and exciting racing series. Riders compete on a variety of motorcycles, making the Super Hooligan Championship a unique addition to the MotoAmerica lineup.

MotoAmerica Race Tracks and Challenges

MotoAmerica races take place at some of the most prestigious tracks in the United States, each offering its own unique challenges. Among the most iconic venues is the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, a world-class circuit that also hosts MotoGP and Formula 1 events. Its long straights and technical sections test riders’ braking ability, cornering precision, and overall racecraft. Another legendary venue is Road America in Wisconsin, one of the longest and fastest tracks on the calendar, where top speeds often exceed 180 mph.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in California is renowned for its challenging elevation changes and the infamous Corkscrew turn, which demands exceptional bike control and courage from riders. Other key tracks include Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama, known for its smooth surface and tight corners; Brainerd International Raceway in Minnesota, which features a mix of high-speed straights and technical sections; and Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Pennsylvania, a demanding circuit with significant elevation changes and complex corner sequences. Each of these tracks presents unique challenges, making every round of MotoAmerica an unpredictable and exciting affair.

Notable MotoAmerica Riders and Their Impact

MotoAmerica has produced and hosted numerous talented riders, many of whom have gone on to compete at the international level. Jake Gagne, a multiple-time MotoAmerica Superbike champion, is known for his consistency and remarkable speed. Cameron Beaubier, a five-time Superbike champion, has raced in both Moto2 and WorldSBK, proving his capabilities on the global stage. Toni Elias, a former MotoGP race winner, brought international experience to the series and won the MotoAmerica Superbike title. Josh Herrin has demonstrated versatility across multiple classes, competing in Superbike, Supersport, and Stock 1000. Bobby Fong, PJ Jacobsen, and Mathew Scholtz have also made significant impacts in the championship, helping to elevate the level of competition. These riders exemplify the skill and determination that define MotoAmerica, inspiring the next generation of racers.

Notable MotoAmerica Riders and Their Achievements

MotoAmerica has produced several world-class riders who have gone on to compete internationally.

• Jake Gagne – A dominant force in the Superbike class, winning multiple championships with Yamaha.
• Cameron Beaubier – A five-time MotoAmerica Superbike champion who has raced in Moto2 and WorldSBK.
• Toni Elias – Former MotoGP race winner and MotoAmerica Superbike champion.
• Josh Herrin – A versatile rider with success in multiple MotoAmerica classes.
• Bobby Fong – A hard-charging racer with wins in both Superbike and Supersport.

Conclusion: MotoAmerica’s Enduring Legacy and Future

MotoAmerica is a national championship, while MotoGP is a world championship. MotoGP bikes are custom-built prototypes, whereas MotoAmerica uses production-based motorcycles.

MotoAmerica has firmly established itself as the beating heart of motorcycle racing in the United States, delivering high-octane competition, producing world-class riders, and rekindling the nation’s passion for road racing. Under the leadership of Wayne Rainey, the championship has transformed from a struggling domestic series into a globally respected platform that develops talent, attracts top manufacturers, and pushes the limits of two-wheeled performance. With its diverse class structure, legendary race tracks, and ever-growing fan base, MotoAmerica continues to shape the future of American motorcycle racing.

As the sport evolves, MotoAmerica stands at the forefront, bridging the gap between national and international competition while giving riders the tools to compete on the world stage. The rise of stars like Jake Gagne, and Cameron Beaubier, and the intense battles in classes like Superbike, Supersport, and King of the Baggers ensure that every race weekend is an electrifying spectacle. The series’ commitment to innovation, safety, and accessibility guarantees that the next generation of American racers will have the opportunities and support needed to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

With each passing season, MotoAmerica cements its reputation as more than just a racing series—it is a proving ground for legends, a battleground for the fiercest competitors, and a testament to the unbreakable spirit of motorcycle racing. As the engines roar and the checkered flags wave, one thing is clear: the future of American motorcycle racing is in the hands of MotoAmerica, and its legacy will continue to inspire riders and fans for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About MotoAmerica

How can I watch MotoAmerica races?

MotoAmerica races are broadcast on MotoAmerica Live+, MAVTV, and Fox Sports. Fans can also attend events in person.

What kind of motorcycles are used in MotoAmerica?

MotoAmerica features production-based motorcycles ranging from 400cc sportbikes to 1000cc Superbikes.

Can amateur riders compete in MotoAmerica?

Yes, riders can start in the Stock 1000 or Junior Cup classes before progressing to higher levels.

What is King of the Baggers?

A racing series featuring heavily modified Harley-Davidson and Indian touring motorcycles, offering an exciting twist on traditional motorcycle racing.

How does MotoAmerica compare to MotoGP?

MotoAmerica is a national championship, while MotoGP is a world championship. MotoGP bikes are custom-built prototypes, whereas MotoAmerica uses production-based motorcycles.