December 5th 2024
MotoAmerica’s Chuck Aksland Shares Insights on Growth and Innovation at EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week
MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, celebrated a decade of transformative growth and innovation under the stewardship of Chuck Aksland, Chief Operating Officer, at EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week. Aksland provided a comprehensive look at how MotoAmerica has revitalized American motorcycle racing since taking over the AMA Superbike series in 2015, highlighting key milestones, innovative strategies, and a bold vision for the future.
A Decade of Progress
In 2015, MotoAmerica inherited a struggling series. "When we took over, there was no schedule, no sponsors, and no staff," Aksland recalled. "We started from scratch, aligning technical and sporting rules with the World Superbike Championship to better prepare U.S. riders for global competition."
Fast forward to 2024, MotoAmerica now boasts nine racing classes, ranging from premier superbikes to crowd-pleasing categories like the King of the Baggers. With over 180 entries per round, the series has become a proving ground for talent and a showcase for exciting, diverse competition.
Digital Accessibility and Fan Engagement
MotoAmerica has harnessed the power of digital technology to expand its reach. The introduction of MotoAmerica Live Plus, a comprehensive streaming platform, has been a game changer, offering fans 20 hours of behind-the-scenes coverage for each race weekend.
"We’ve taken control of our production to own our content," Aksland explained. "That decision allowed us to partner with networks like Fox Sports, Mav TV, and ESPN Latin America, reaching broader audiences and boosting awareness of MotoAmerica globally."
Expanding Horizons with Innovative Classes
MotoAmerica has captured the imagination of new audiences with unique racing categories like King of the Baggers, featuring modified Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycles. Originally introduced as an exhibition, the class has evolved into a fan favorite.
"Watching a 620-pound motorcycle hit 185 mph on Daytona’s banking is a spectacle," Aksland said. "The rivalry between Harley-Davidson and Indian has taken the class to new heights, with factory-level competition and cutting-edge technology."
MotoAmerica’s Build Train Race initiative, in partnership with Royal Enfield, has also gained traction, empowering women racers to enter the sport by building and competing on their own motorcycles.
Developing the Next Generation of Riders
MotoAmerica has a long-term vision of cultivating the next American world champion. Its youth development programs, including the Mini Cup, Talent Cup, and partnerships with Red Bull Rookies, provide a structured pathway for young riders to progress from grassroots racing to international competition.
"Developing homegrown talent is our core mission," Aksland said. "The Talent Cup, debuting at the MotoGP event at Circuit of the Americas, is a pivotal step in creating a seamless path to MotoGP for American riders."
Building the Ultimate Fan Experience
MotoAmerica has redefined motorcycle racing as a full-spectrum entertainment experience. Open paddocks, stunt shows, kids’ carnivals, and immersive fan engagement make MotoAmerica events a family-friendly destination.
"Our paddock is open and accessible, offering fans a chance to meet riders and teams," Aksland said. "We’re not just about the racing; we’re creating an environment where everyone feels part of the action."
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Growth
As MotoAmerica embarks on its second decade, the focus remains on expanding the fan base, enhancing event experiences, and nurturing future champions. "Our social media following is now second only to NASCAR among U.S.-based motorsports, which shows the appetite for motorcycle racing," Aksland noted.
MotoAmerica’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity ensures its continued growth. "It’s a 24/7 passion," Aksland said. "We’re driven to succeed, and one day, we’ll have another American world champion on the global stage."
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America's premier motorcycle road racing championship, fostering world-class competition and developing future champions. Since 2015, MotoAmerica has revitalized motorcycle racing in the U.S., offering an unparalleled mix of thrilling on-track action and fan engagement.
MotoAmerica is North America's premier motorcycle road racing championship, fostering world-class competition and developing future champions. Since 2015, MotoAmerica has revitalized motorcycle racing in the U.S., offering an unparalleled mix of thrilling on-track action and fan engagement.
For more information, visit www.motoamerica.com.
To watch The 5th Annual RACE INDUSTRY WEEK, please CLICK HERE
For more information, please visit: www.epartrade.com