The 2024 FIM TrialGP World Championship kicked off in Japan with a notable presence of electric motorcycles in the Trial2 category. Five electric motorbikes were in action, showcasing the future of trials riding. Sondre Haga from Norway impressed everyone with the new electric GASGAS, while Gael Chatagno from France made waves with Electric Motion’s Epure Factor-e. Japanese riders Kenichi Kuroyama, Seiya Ujikawa, and Fumitaka Nozaki represented Yamaha on their TY-E 2.2 bikes.
A Challenging Start at Mobility Resort Motegi
The initial round took place at the Mobility Resort Motegi, a venue renowned for its demanding terrain. Riders faced steep inclines and declines, combined with boulders and rocky sections that tested their skills to the fullest.
GASGAS
Sondre Haga reflected positively on his performance: “The first day was incredible, I was in top form and hardly made any mistakes. It’s an amazing feeling to come out on top after putting in so much hard work. Finishing fifth on the second day is a bit frustrating because we were close to being on the podium all day. However, overall, I’m very happy with this weekend’s results and it gives me a lot of confidence in our chances for the championship. We will continue to give our best and hopefully maintain our position at the top for the rest of the season.”
Albert Cabestany, GASGAS Factory Racing Trial Team Manager, was equally proud: “The guys in Trial2 did a superb job with Sondre’s win on the first day, especially as it was the first electric motorbike to win, it was a dream come true. It’s a pity they didn’t get a podium today being so close on points, but they’ve had a brilliant weekend. Now we’re focussing on Andorra and getting back to the top.”
Results:
- Day 1: 1st place
- Day 2: 5th place
Electric Motion
After intense winter preparations, Gael Chatagno and the team at Electric Motion kicked off the season with impressive podium finishes. Chatagno expressed his satisfaction with the new Epure Factor-e bike, highlighting its efficiency and versatile performance. The improved motor and battery life allowed him to complete each lap with ease.
Chatagno praised his team and sponsors as it was an incredible week for him.
Results:
- Day 1: 2nd place
- Day 2: 3rd place
Yamaha
Yamaha’s lineup included well-known figures from the All Japan IA Super circuit: Kenichi Kuroyama, Masaya Ujikawa, and Fumitaka Nozaki. Yamaha has been pushing the boundaries of electric trials bikes since introducing the TY-E in 2018. The TY-E 2.2 machines aim to further this development and clinch their first victory and championship title.
Kenichi Kuroyama has secured two second-place finishes in the All Japan series so far and is ranked second overall.
Results:
- Kenichi Kuroyama:
- Day 1: 11th place
- Day 2: 17th place
- Seiya Ujikawa:
- Day 1: 12th place
- Day 2: 20th place
- Fumitaka Nozaki:
- Day 1: 23rd place
- Day 2: 24th place
Download all results from the Trial2 category here (PDF).
The excitement continues as the 2024 FIM TrialGP World Championship moves to Andorra’s Sant Julia de Loria for round two on June 7-9. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates!
