TRIBUTE GIVEAWAY
LUIS SALOM K1 REPLICA
El Mexicano
30 April 2025
In the high-octane world of motorcycle racing, few riders captured the hearts of fans and peers quite like Luis Salom.
Known for his relentless grit, charismatic smile, and the incredible fire in his belly every time he swung a leg over his machine, Salom was more than just a racer—he was a symbol of passion, perseverance, and heart.
His career, though tragically cut short, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire both young riders and devoted followers of the sport.
Luis Salom – The Smile That Lit Up the Paddock
Born in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, in 1991, Salom’s journey into professional racing began in the lower formulas, but it was in the Moto3 World Championship where his talent became unmistakably clear. Nicknamed “El Mexicano” early on due to his sombrero-style victory celebrations, Salom combined fierce competitiveness with a light-hearted charm that made him a favourite in the paddock.
Moto3 Magic – A 2013 Season to Remember
Luis Salom truly exploded onto the world stage in 2013, riding for the Red Bull KTM Ajo team in Moto3. From the very first race of the season in Qatar, where he claimed victory, it was evident Salom would be a title contender. That year, he became known for his incredible last-lap attacks and consistency, clinching seven wins and four more podium finishes out of 17 races.
One of the most iconic moments came at the Catalan Grand Prix, his home race. Battling wheel-to-wheel with Maverick Viñales and Álex Rins, Salom executed a stunning final-lap overtake to secure victory. It was classic Luis—patient, poised, and pouncing when it mattered most. Another memorable moment came in Mugello, where he won by just 0.099 seconds, displaying nerve and tactical brilliance.
He led the championship for most of the season and went into the final round in Valencia as the points leader, but a crash while trying to claw back positions ultimately handed the title to Viñales. Though he finished second overall, Salom’s fighting spirit and sheer racecraft throughout the season left an indelible impression. He had proved that he was a warrior on two wheels.
Stepping Up – From Moto3 to Moto2
In 2014, Salom moved up to the fiercely competitive Moto2 class, joining Pons HP 40, the team co-owned by 250cc World Champion Sito Pons. The transition to the heavier and more powerful machines of Moto2 was a challenge, but Salom approached it with the same determination he always had.
His rookie season saw him steadily improve, with standout performances including a strong fifth-place finish at Mugello, where his late-braking style and fearless corner entries began to shine through. Though it was a learning year, Salom showed flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential in the middleweight class.
In 2015, racing for the Paginas Amarillas HP 40 team, Salom continued to build on his Moto2 credentials, claiming several top-ten finishes and demonstrating he could mix it up with the category’s veterans. It wasn’t just his speed that impressed; it was his race IQ, calm under pressure, and his ability to extract performance even when the odds were stacked against him.
The Final Season – 2016 with SAG Racing
For the 2016 Moto2 season, Salom joined SAG Racing Team and seemed poised for a strong campaign. The team, though smaller, gave him the chance to be a lead rider and build the bike around his preferences. Sadly, it was during this season, at the Catalan Grand Prix—a circuit that had once been the site of his triumphant Moto3 win—that tragedy struck.
On 3 June 2016, during Free Practice 2 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Salom suffered a fatal crash. The news sent shockwaves through the MotoGP world. Tributes poured in from riders, teams, and fans globally, mourning not only a lost talent but a young man who embodied the best of what motorcycle racing represents.
He was just 24 years old.
Legacy in Motion
Luis Salom’s memory lives on—not only in the statistics of his career, which include 9 Grand Prix wins, 25 podiums, and an unmatched flair for dramatic, late-race charges—but in the hearts of those who shared the grid with him. Riders like Marc Márquez, Jorge Lorenzo, and Maverick Viñales openly paid homage to him, often referring to his work ethic and humility off the bike.
He also lives on through the AGV K1 Salom Replica helmet, which immortalises the vibrant and unique graphics he helped design. The helmet, featuring floral motifs and bold colours, reflects both the fighting spirit and gentle nature of the man who wore it. It’s not just a piece of gear—it’s a tribute in itself.
Salom was a rider who never gave less than 100%, regardless of the class, conditions, or competition. Whether he was leading a race or fighting for points, his commitment never wavered. That mindset continues to inspire young riders across the globe who dream of standing on the world stage.
Celebrating Salom’s Spirit
As a tribute to this racer who gave everything to the sport, we at Biker’s Warehouse held a draw for an AGV K1 Salom Replica helmet in May of 2025, celebrating the joy he brought to every race weekend. Congratulations to Ruan Pretorius for walking away with this stunning helmet!
So, as we reflect on the kind of racer Luis Salom was … Fast … Fearless … Full of heart, we’re reminded of why we fall in love with motorcycle racing in the first place — the thrill, the courage, the camaraderie, and above all, the people who make it special.
He may be gone from the track, but he will never be forgotten.
Ride in peace, Luis. #Mexicano39