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AHRMA vintage cup series returns to the racetrack
The AHRMA Vintage Cup Series made a remarkable comeback to the iconic Willow Springs Raceway on April 19-20, 2025, after a lengthy hiatus. Following this exhilarating event, the series continued its momentum at the Inde Motorsports Ranch on April 26-27. These back-to-back weekends were part of the prestigious 2025 AHRMA National Roadracing Series, proudly presented by Motobilia. Riders showcased their skills on classic grand prix machines, engaging in fierce battles that highlighted both strategy and the raw power of vintage motorcycles.
Celebrating classic machines in the 500 Premier class
This year’s Vintage Cup featured the competitive 500 Premier class, which included 500cc four-stroke motorcycles manufactured up to and including 1968. Enthusiasts witnessed incredible machines from that era, such as the 500cc Manx Norton, Matchless and Seeley G50, BSA Goldstar, and the renowned Harley-Davidson KR. Each bike carried with it a legacy of racing history, making the event a true celebration of motorcycling heritage.
Racing action at Willow Springs
On the 2.5-mile main track at Willow Springs, the excitement was palpable as Tim Joyce took the lead on his 1968 Seeley G50. Joyce’s commanding performance set the stage for the entire weekend, as he consistently outpaced his competitors. Following closely behind was David Roper on his 1970 Harley-Davidson ERTT, while Jef Elings, riding a 1965 Matchless G50, held a solid third position. The iconic roar of Ron Melton’s 1962 Norton Manx echoed through the track, but unfortunately, he faced mechanical issues that forced him to retire early in the race.
Dominating performances and fierce competition
The race on Sunday mirrored the previous day, with the same four riders entering Turn One in the same order. Joyce once again took control, setting a pace that left his competitors scrambling to keep up. Roper and Elings maintained pressure, but Melton’s unfortunate mechanics caused him to retire again. As the checkered flag fell, the order remained unchanged: Joyce first, followed by Roper and Elings.
Success continues at Inde Motorsports Ranch
As the series moved to Inde Motorsports Ranch the following weekend, Joyce, Roper, and Elings showcased their tenacity on the tighter and more technical circuit. Remarkably, they replicated their previous success, finishing each race in the same order: Joyce leading Roper, with Elings securing third place.
Community and camaraderie in vintage racing
“The sun shone brightly, and we were fortunate to avoid the infamous winds of Willow Springs, creating nearly perfect racing conditions,” noted Kenny Cummings from NYC Norton. Both East Coast riders expressed their satisfaction with the trip, emphasizing the exceptional weather and fierce competition.
Recognizing exceptional talent and sportsmanship
The back-to-back rounds at Willow Springs and Inde Motorsports Ranch highlighted the very essence of vintage road racing. Tim Joyce’s sweep across all four days of competition was a testament to his unparalleled skill, dedication, and the performance of his machine. Roper and Elings also delivered outstanding results, consistently finishing in the top three, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship that defines the AHRMA community.
Acknowledgments and future events
Bob Robbins, co-Chairman of the AHRMA Safety Committee, expressed gratitude to John Ulrich and the Roadracing World Action Fund for their efforts in deploying Airfence soft barriers at Inde. Looking ahead, rounds nine and ten of the AHRMA National Road Race Series will take place on May 31-June 1 at Motorsports Park Hastings in Hastings, NE.
Vintage Cup highlights and awards
The annual Vintage Cup not only spotlights AHRMA’s road racing classes, but it also provides enhanced recognition for competitors in the selected class during each race event. Awards for Vintage Cup competitors are presented separately, celebrating their achievements at the Saturday awards ceremony. The perpetual Vintage Cup trophy, engraved with the national champion’s name, is awarded at the National Awards Banquet, ensuring the spirit of competition endures.
2025 AHRMA Roadracing Series results
- April 19, 2025
- 1st: Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley G-50, Springfield, VT
- 2nd: David Roper, 1970 Harley-Davidson ERTT, Hicksville, NY
- 3rd: Jeff Elings, 1965 Matchless G50, Santa Barbara, CA
- 4th: Ron Melton, 1962 Norton Manx, Port Costa, CA
- April 20, 2025
- 1st: Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley G-50, Springfield, VT
- April 26, 2025
- 1st: Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley G-50, Springfield, VT
- April 27, 2025
- 1st: Tim Joyce, 1968 Seeley G-50, Springfield, VT