New national race series coming?

There could be a new national race series in Canada next year.

Pro racer Andrew Nelson, one of the top competitors in CSBK Pro Superbike action this summer, says on the Cherrypicker Racing forum that Canada’s motorcycle racing scene needs change, and he’s working to bring that forward. He cites dropping numbers of fans and racers as proof that his new series is the right idea at the right time.

Nelson says he’s talked to ten motorcycle manufacturers about his plans, with five in favour of his idea, two on the fence, and three with no reply yet. He also says he has three big sponsors already lined up, and tire manufacturers are also in favour of his plan.

Nelson is hoping to schedule races at five locations; he’s considering Mosport, Shubenacadie, St. Eustache, Calabogie, Shannonville and Mont Tremblant. He hopes to have a double-header in superbike action on race weekends; the plan right now is to have two spec classes, with spec tires and bikes; besides the pro action,he wants two amateur classes (superbike and sport bike, with 600s allowed to run in superbike), and an open Fan Favourite class, where racers can enter electric bikes, vintage bikes, or whatever else strikes their fancy.

The spec classes will have minimum grid requirements; there will be no horsepower rules. Pro Superbike will have no fuel requirements, while other classes will have a 91 spec fuel. Nelson says there will be an emphasis on a clear rulebook, with regulations that are enforced. He also is aiming for generous prize purses, and wants OEMs to guarantee racer contingencies.

Part of the plan is to include live streaming of the races, so Canadians across the country- or the world –  can take in the races as they happen; Nelson hopes to have the races broadcast on television at a later date as well.

Want more details of the plans? Check out the conversation here.