Harley-Davidson and MotoGP will launch a new racing championship on the world’s highest stage in 2026. The new series, contested by bagger-style machines weighing approximately 280 kg and boasting an astounding maximum output of over 200 hp, is scheduled to take place over 12 races across six events in North America and Europe.
A serious battle with the same machine! An ultra-powerful machine based on the “Road Glide”
A new world racing championship featuring Harley-Davidson bagger motorcycles will begin in 2026. The 12-round series will take place at six Grand Prix in Europe and North America, with riders competing in two races per round on race-prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glides. Details, including the race calendar and spectator options, will be announced at a later date.
The race machines, designed and built by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing, will weigh approximately 280 kg, produce overwhelming power with over 200 hp and 245 Nm of torque, and are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 300 km/h. With all machines having the same specifications, this new series is guaranteed to be a thrilling competition. The grid will consist of six to eight teams, each with two riders supported by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing.
A new challenge in Harley’s 120-year history
This announcement marks a bold new step for Harley-Davidson’s global racing efforts. Since its founding more than 120 years ago, Harley-Davidson has been a pioneer in on-road and off-road performance, with recent performance standouts like the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series, as well as the new CVO RR (U.S. only) and CVO Road Glide ST.
“We’ve seen firsthand that performance resonates with riders and fans, and we’re excited to bring a new kind of racing to the world stage with this new series,” said Jochen Zeitz, Harley-Davidson Chairman, President and CEO. “This is a bold new chapter for the Harley-Davidson brand that not only celebrates our heritage while propelling us into the future, but also adds an incredible spectacle to the world’s greatest motorcycle show.”
Both parties aim to attract new fans
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, said: “Collaborating with Harley-Davidson is an exciting opportunity for both parties. Partnering with an iconic American lifestyle brand like Harley-Davidson allows us to reach new audiences with the appeal of our sport. This partnership has great potential for both our strategies, providing a true spectacle for fans and adding new value and flavor to Grand Prix weekends where the series is contested.”
The birth of this racing series marks a powerful collaboration between the world’s top MotoGP and America’s leading motorcycle brand, Harley-Davidson. Motorcycle fans will likely be excited to watch the new season starting in 2026.
