CRA Motorsports is set to launch an exciting new championship for young riders, featuring the Atom GP1 mini race bike. Geared towards riders aged 10-17, this championship aims to give a significant boost to grassroots-level racing in India and provide aspiring racers with a cost-effective platform to kickstart their racing careers.
The Atom GP1 mini race bike, designed for young riders, comes with a price tag of Rs 2.75 lakh (without GST). Its introduction could prove to be a game-changer, offering a more affordable option for young racers to enter the world of professional racing. Unlike some similar-spec mini racing bikes available abroad, the Atom GP1 is locally produced in India, avoiding import duties and GST that could significantly increase the cost.
The bike itself weighs around 85kg (with a full 4-litre fuel tank) and is powered by a 159.3cc, single-cylinder, two-valve, air-cooled engine, capable of delivering 15.05hp and 13.85Nm of torque. It can reach a top speed of 105kph and is expected to produce 250 units annually.
The inaugural edition of the Atom GP1 championship will cater to riders aged 10-17, providing them with an ideal platform to showcase their skills and talents. The championship is planned to kick off after the conclusion of this year’s Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC), around October 2023. The Meco Kartopia in Bengaluru will host a total of four rounds, with the championship being integrated with other racing events.
The grid for the championship will consist of a minimum of eight and a maximum of 15 riders, each representing different teams. Instead of being a one-make championship, CRA Motorsports will sell the race bikes to teams, which will then manage their riders and run the bikes. This approach aims to promote diversity and competition among teams and riders.
While the first season will remain within India, there are ambitious plans to expand internationally from the next year. In 2024, CRA Motorsports envisions multiple rounds across Asia, with winners from each round progressing to the Asia grand finals to compete for the ultimate title. By 2025, CRA Motorsports aspires to organize races in 15 countries worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and the USA.
Aspiring racers will have the opportunity to train on the Atom GP1 at various locations across India, UAE, and Malaysia, under CRA Motorsports’ guidance. Additionally, the FMSCI (Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India) is reportedly working on a new racing license system for 10-13-year-olds to facilitate their entry into the championship.
The launch of the Atom GP1 championship promises to be an exciting development for motorsport enthusiasts and young racers in India. With a more affordable racing option and opportunities to expand internationally, this championship could become a stepping stone for future racing champions, fueling a new generation of racing talent in the country.
