The 2026 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship season opener took place April 17-19 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia, marking the 50th anniversary of AMA Superbike racing. MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey said the event celebrated “50 Years Of Superbike Racing” with a highly competitive field across six racing classes at the 2.54-mile circuit.
Qualifying and practice sessions were held Friday, April 17, setting the stage for all-day racing on Saturday and Sunday at the 2.54-mile Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta circuit in Braselton, Georgia, according to event officials. The Superbike races, the highlight of the weekend, were scheduled for 3 p.m. on both days and broadcast live on VICE TV, sources confirmed. The event featured nonstop competition across six racing classes, including Superbike, Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, and Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race, according to the official MotoAmerica schedule.
“The Superbike class, known for speeds exceeding 190 mph on the back straightaway, showcased some of the fastest and most skilled riders in the sport.”
More than 120 riders competed in the event, which allowed fans access to an open race paddock to meet the participants, according to MotoAmerica representatives. The Superbike class, known for speeds exceeding 190 mph on the back straightaway, showcased some of the fastest and most skilled riders in the sport. The technical layout of the Road Atlanta circuit includes a blind exit from turn one, a series of “esses,” and an 80-foot plunge into Turn 12, making it a challenging venue for competitors, according to track records and race analyses.
MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey said the event was a milestone for the sport. “We are incredibly excited to kick off the 2026 season at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta,” Rainey said in an official statement. He added, “It’s a milestone year for our sport as we celebrate ‘50 Years Of Superbike Racing,’ and the level of competition in this year’s championship is as high as it’s ever been.” Rainey described the event as “an historic tribute to the sport’s past and a thrilling look towards its future,” according to a MotoAmerica press release.
The event also featured family-friendly activities. Children under 12 were admitted free with a paying adult, while kids ages 5 to 12 received a 20% discount on tickets, according to ticketing information. The Kids Zone offered free carnival games, balance bikes for young children, an electric bicycle area for older youths, a stunt show, and a bike show, sources said. Motorcycle demonstration rides from brands such as Honda, Yamaha, Harley-Davidson, Aprilia, and CF MOTO were available with paid admission, according to event organizers.
Additional fan experiences included Dunlop M4 Suzuki Two-Seat Superbike rides, where attendees could reach speeds up to 150 mph with professional riders. Proceeds from these rides benefited the Roadracing World Action Fund, which supports racetrack safety initiatives, according to fund representatives. VIP ticket packages provided access to hospitality suites for guests aged 16 and older, featuring climate-controlled areas with live MotoAmerica TV coverage, racer meet-and-greet sessions, catering, and paddock access, according to the official MotoAmerica website. The VIP Superfan Experience included a two-day pass for Saturday and Sunday, Friday general admission, and three-day VIP parking, with some packages offering a 20% discount on merchandise.
Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta has been a cornerstone of American motorcycle racing since hosting its first AMA Superbike event in 1980, records show. The circuit’s demanding layout has made it a proving ground for elite riders, with its combination of high-speed straights and technical corners. The 2026 season opener emphasized the 50th anniversary of AMA Superbike racing, with local racing legend and AMA Hall of Famer Scott Russell serving as Grand Marshal, according to MotoAmerica. Quad Lock was named the title sponsor for the Superbike Championship, sources confirmed.
The full event program included support classes that continued their respective championships throughout the weekend, according to the official schedule. The 2026 MotoAmerica season at Road Atlanta set the tone for a highly competitive year of Superbike racing in the United States.
