Friday, December 23, 2005

Pridmore at SUPERSHOW

From SUPERSHOW Events

TORONTO, ON -- As motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the continent gear up for SUPERSHOW 2006, North America’s largest and most comprehensive motorcycle show, an exciting line-up of special guests has been organized. Set for Jan. 6–8 at the Toronto International Centre, the 2006 edition of the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW is a celebration of its 30th consecutive year as Canada’s Motorcycle Show.

The show’s feature guest this year is “American Motorcycle Icon” and host of the popular American Thunder on Speed Channel for the past eight years Michele Smith. Michele will be at the 2006 SUPERSHOW to meet Canadian fans and enthusiasts. Known to most for American Thunder, Michele has graced the cover of several magazines including Playboy, Swimsuit International, Muscle and Fitness as well as many motorcycle calendars and posters. She can be seen all three days of the SUPERSHOW.

For racing enthusiasts, U.S. superbike racer, 2003 World Endurance champion and 2002 Formula Extreme champion Jason Pridmore will be on hand to sign autographs and talk to fans about his exciting racing career and accomplishments. Jason has been both teaching (and learning) how to ride a motorcycle since his first ride at his father Reg’s school in 1981 and has added an additional 200 schools to that count since launching the STAR Motorcycle School in 1998.

Other special guest racers include former Canadian Superbike champions Steve Crevier, Pascal Picotte and Michael Taylor; Canadian Superbike star Frank Trombino; former Canadian Dirt Track champion Steve Beattie; UK Speedway racer Kyle Legault; Canadian Women’s Series racer and Sportbike champion Shawna Aron; and 12-year-old ATV Stock National Racer and Champion Deanna Salib.

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Yamaha laces 'em up

From Yamaha Motor Canada

Burlington, ON - There’s a certain appeal in a major National Championship that takes you back to the roots of sport and that gives everyday Canadians a shot to taste the glory. That’s the case with the first-ever Source for Sports Canadian National Pond Hockey Championships to be contested Jan. 27-29 at Deerhurst Resort in Muskoka, ON.

The glimmer of the championship has caught the eye of hundreds of adult recreational teams and several major sponsors including Yamaha Motor Canada.

Championship executive director Neil Lumsden says the chance for local recreational pond teams to go from relative obscurity to national stardom has resulted in the registration of teams from across Canada and internationally.

Close to 600 players, men and women will make the journey to Ontario’s north for a chance to hoist championship trophies carved from Canadian maple. The two championships will run simultaneously.

Yamaha Motor Canada is a presenting sponsor of the championship and will be involved in the thick of the action. Yamaha will help build and maintain the championship’s 24 outdoor rinks with the provision of a fleet of Yamaha snowmobiles and Rhino 4x4’s for pond maintenance and other ‘official’ championship duties. The fun won’t be limited to Championship officials. Yamaha will also set up a snowmobile test track for spectators and participants alike.

The championship’s 126 spots for adult men’s and women’s teams sold out within 48 hours of the event’s unveiling at the Hockey Hall of Fame last August, and there is already a waiting list of more than 300 teams for 2007.

Tuesday, December 20, 2005

Win a title, drive a Mini!

By John Hopkins

WHITBY, ON -- BMW Motorrad Canada has unveiled its racer support program for the 2006 Canadian Thunder series and released details on a new motorcycle that will be eligible for the class.

In the BMW contingency program, $1,000 will be paid to the top five BMW finishers in each Canadian Thunder round in 2006, with $400 going to the highest placing BMW racer, $250 for second highest, $150 for third, $100 for fourth and $100 for fifth.

Additionally, should a BMW rider win the 2006 Canadian Thunder title, they will receive a bonus prize of a one-year lease of a Mini Cooper, on behalf of BMW Motorrad Canada.

The new model, the BMW R1200S is an air / oil cooled 1170cc twin with a claimed horsepower of 122 and dry weight listed at 418 lbs. (190kg).

The R1200S would normally retail for $19,000 but as part of the Canadian Thunder program it is available for $13,500. Series competitors would also get a $1,000 parts allowance.

To qualify for the BMW Motorrad Canada Racer Support Program, all interested individuals must supply a copy of their valid RACE license and a rider bio / race resume. For new competitors, a copy of receipt to attend a RACE or FAST school and a letter of intent will be sufficient.

Polaris expands SnoCross sponsorship

From WPSA Racing

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN — Polaris Industries, a leader in snowmobile and powersports manufacturing, will expand its involvement with the 2005-2006 PowerSports Snowmobile Tour season as an official sponsor. The Medina, MN-based company manufactures snowmobiles, as well as ATVs, utility vehicles and motorcycles through its Victory brand. Polaris is also a strategic partner with Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM.

As part of the agreement, Polaris will receive branding identity at the venues and on this year’s television broadcasts, which will air on ESPN2. The company will also participate in PowerSports Snowmobile Tour public relations and promotional initiatives, corporate hospitality and will be featured in the Tour’s advertising and Internet activities.

Polaris will continue a winning tradition, which was showcased by its success last season. Led by Polaris rider T.J. Gulla’s Pro Stock championship, Polaris riders won four of six national titles last year, including Pro Women, Semi-Pro Open and Semi-Pro Stock. Many top competitors on this year’s Tour ride Polaris sleds, including Gulla, Ross Martin and Dennis Eckstrom.

Taylor and LaVallee win

From WPSA Racing

GAYLORD, MI — After a long night on Saturday, and fighting ever-changing track conditions, Steven Taylor (Pro Open) and Levi LaVallee (Pro Stock) won their respective finals during Sunday’s PowerSports Snowmobile Tour Michigan Snocross. The event was held on the ski slopes of the Otsego Club and Resort.

The duo also raced in the weather-delayed AMSOIL Duluth National, which was held on Saturday, as well as the early rounds of the Michigan Snocross, which followed the Duluth program, lasting until nearly 11pm. The Duluth event was postponed due to heavy fog.

Taylor (Blair Morgan Racing Team/Ski-Doo) traded the lead with teammate Dave Allard twice before running away with the Pro Open final, winning his second career national event and the first of the season. Allard (Blair Morgan Racing Team/Ski-Doo) finished second, ahead of Robbie Malinoski (Olah Racing/Arctic Cat).

“Our sleds are definitely the best out there,” said Taylor. “I followed Dave around for a few laps, and copied a few of his lines. He lost a little bit of ground halfway through, and I passed him. It was great to be up front with a teammate and a friend."

Allard also finished on the podium in the Pro Stock final, grabbing third.

“I’m really, really happy,” said Allard of his first Tour podiums. “Working with Blair Morgan Racing has been a great experience. This will give us good luck going forward.”

LaVallee, who sat out most of last season with a knee injury, proved his recovery was complete, winning the Pro Stock final. LaVallee took the lead from Kurtis Crapo (Arctic Cat), after making accidental contact with Crapo. Carl Schubitzke (AMSOIL/Polaris) finished second, followed by Allard.

“As I popped off that jump, Kurtis came across in front of me, and I saw him while I was in the air,” said LaVallee of the incident with Crapo. “I just clipped the rear end of his sled as he was trying to jump. It was just an accident. I spoke with Kurtis afterward. He’s a great guy and he understood.”

Other winners were: Semi-Pro Open, Phil Johnson (Kowalski Racing/Ski-Doo); and Semi-Pro Stock, Willie Elam (Blair Morgan Racing Team/Ski-Doo).

Four added to X Games

From WPSA Racing

GAYLORD, MI — Aaron Christensen, Garth Kaufman, Ross Martin and Matthew Piche earned spots in the Winter X Games 10 field by winning their respective non-points, invitational events Saturday at the Michigan Snocross PowerSports Snowmobile Tour event at the Otsego Club and Resort. Four invitational events were held, with only the winners advancing.

Christensen (Ski-Doo), Kaufman (Arctic Cat), Martin (Polaris), and Piche (Arctic Cat) are now eligible to compete in Winter X Games 10, being staged in Aspen/Snowmass, CO Jan. 28-31.

Sarah McQuestion (Vern Johnson Sons Tree Farm/Ski-Doo) won the Pro Women final, while longtime WPSA racer Earl Reimer (Blair Morgan Racing/Ski-Doo) edged Kirk Hibbert (Arctic Cat) to win the Pro Veteran final.

Other final winners were: Sport Open, Kyle Strandlund (Polaris); Sport Stock, Josh West (Stud Boy/Arctic Cat); 300cc, Justen Timpe (Ski-Doo); Junior 10-13, Logan Christian (Christian Brothers Racing/Arctic Cat); Junior 14-15, Jason Deneweth (Deneweth’s Greenhouses/Ski Doo); and Junior 16-17, J.P. Price (Stud Boy/Ski-Doo).

First win for Morin

From WPSA Racing

GAYLORD, MI — French Canadian rider Mathieu Morin earned a debut win in the Pro Stock final, while D.J. Eckstrom won the Pro Open event during the weather-delayed AMSOIL Duluth National, Saturday at the Otsego Club and Resort. Morin (Ski-Doo), who is substituting for the injured C.W. Sirjane, made his Pro class debut this weekend, while Eckstrom led a Polaris sweep of the podium in the AMSOIL-sponsored machine.

Fog stopped the Semi-Pro and Pro finals in Duluth on Nov. 27, so the Tour completed the Pro Stock and Pro Open finals, as well as the Semi-Pro Stock and Open final. The Duluth events were run as part of the Michigan Snocross here.

Kurtis Crapo (Arctic Cat) was second in the Pro Stock final, ahead of Eckstrom, who competed in both events. Ross Martin (Judnick Motorsports/Polaris) was the Pro Open runner-up, followed by defending Pro Stock titleholder T.J. Gulla (TEAM Industries/Polaris).

Zach Pattyn (Ski-Doo) won the Semi-Pro Stock final, while Jeff Snow (Olah Racing/Arctic Cat) grabbed Semi-Pro Open honours.

Morin led every lap of the Pro Stock event. Morin, who qualified for Winter X Games 10 by winning an invitational race two weeks ago at Duluth, wasn’t certain of his racing future. Then, on Sunday at Duluth, he was tapped to fill in for Sirjane, who had suffered a season-ending knee injury.

“In Duluth, at the time, it was just my dad and I; we had no sponsorship,” said Morin. “We thought we’d only run a few Semi-Pro events here and there. To be given the opportunity to compete in Pro Stock this year is quite an honour. I didn’t think I would win so quickly. It felt great to win the race, and now I know I can race with these guys. So tomorrow should be fun.”

Eckstrom, who lives in Duluth, was excited to bring the trophy home. Eckstrom took the lead of the Pro Open final in the first corner and never looked back.

Toronto show draws crowd

From The Toronto Motorcycle Show

TORONTO, ON -- The Toronto Motorcycle Show, held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in early December, was the only event in Ontario at which all of the major manufacturers showcased their new 2006 models.

This impressive lineup included Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, Buell, BMW, Triumph, Ducati, Victory, Polaris, KTM, Vespa, Arctic Cat, Hyosung, Bombardier, Ural, Derbi and Piaggio. These manufacturers, major retailers and distributors of motorcycles and ATVs presented every conceivable product and service to an appreciative audience of more than 35,100 motorcycle fans.

“The Toronto Motorcycle Show is only four years old and is already considered a world class event, drawing visitors from as far away as the United Kingdom. We look forward to next year’s show, which promises to be even bigger and better,” said Darryl Bond, show manager of the Toronto Motorcycle Show.

The 2006 edition of the Toronto Motorcycle Show will be held in the South Hall of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from Friday, Dec. 8 to Sunday, Dec. 10. Preliminary planning is already under way and includes more features and entertainment for the riding community. There will be an expanded Rider Nation; a Vintage Bike Museum; a new Custom Bike section; an expanded seminar schedule including seminars for female riders; a custom sportbike section and a much larger themed restaurant area and Celebrity Stage.

Custom build at SUPERSHOW

From SUPERSHOW Events

TORONTO, ON -- An exciting new feature at the 2006 edition of the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW is the three-day creation of a new Custom Bobber. The new motorcycle, to be named the ‘Rocky Bobber’, is an alliance between Titan Motorcycle Co. of America and McBride Cycle of Toronto. The SUPERSHOW runs from Jan. 6-8 at the Toronto International Centre and has 17 spots available for apprentices during the build.

A Bobber is a style of motorcycle made popular in the 1940’s and fifties when young men returning from the war began trimming down, or ‘bobbing’, the big Harley-Davidsons of the day to make them leaner and meaner looking. The Bobber movement preceded the ‘Chopper’ customizing movement of the fifties and is now undergoing a revival as the latest chapter in the chopper craze seen throughout North America.

Titan Motorcycle Co. of America, out of Phoenix, produces its line in the United States and is DOT approved for the Canadian market. Titan will erect a stage, in front of its 80-foot Titan Tractor Trailer in Hall 3, where chosen applicants will participate as ‘builder apprentices’ in the construction of the Rocky Bobber, live to the SUPERSHOW’s audience.

McBride Cycle is Titan’s newest Canadian dealer and will take on its U.S. Production Custom line as of January. McBride Cycle is responsible for pre-selecting the 17 apprentices and is running the contest in which SUPERSHOW attendees can enter and win the completed ‘Rocky Bobber’, valued at $30,000.

The Bobber’s Rocky theme refers to the custom paint theme, which won’t be unveiled until the final hours of the Show. More information on application forms for aspiring builders can be found at www.supershowevents.com.

Monday, December 19, 2005

Power surge for Superbikes

From Professional Motorsports Productions

TORONTO, ON -- Engine tuners in the Parts Canada Superbike Championship have received an early Christmas present from series technical officials.

For the 2006 season, maximum horsepower limits have been increased by 10hp in both the Parts Canada Superbike feature class and the Hindle Exhaust Pro 600 Sport Bike national support category. The limit for Superbike is now 180hp while Pro 600 Sport Bike goes up to 125hp. Horsepower in both classes is measured post-race on the series official Dynojet Dyno.

“Motorcycle evolution continues at a frantic pace,” said Colin Fraser of series organizer Professional Motorsports Productions. “Our rules should keep step with new developments while still honouring the concept of affordable and accessible racing that forms the basis of our series.”

Minimum weights in both classes remain unchanged for next season 360 lbs. in Superbike and 350 lbs. in Pro 600 Sport Bike.

The increases in horsepower limits are among several rules changes for the classes that make up the Parts Canada Superbike Championship.

Maximum horsepower has also been adjusted in the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW Amateur 600 Sport Bike division, although not as dramatically as in the Pro 600 class. After careful consideration of competitor input, series officials have bumped the limit up 3hp to 118.

In a significant development, the series will implement a fresh concept for the Canadian Thunder class. The twins category will use a sliding scale based on a weight to power ratio of 3.8:1. In the Suzuki SV650 National Cup, horsepower remains capped at 75hp and minimum weight stays at 365 lbs.

Both the Pro and Amateur 600 Sport Bike classes have been opened up to include twins of up to 750cc, making the Ducati 749 two-cylinder eligible.

There have also been changes to the 600 Sport Bike regulations for next season, all designed to keep the bikes as close as possible to their stock form. Triple clamps, shock linkage, gas cap, battery, starter and charging system must all be O.E. (original equipment) stock. Steering head inserts and fork braces are no longer allowed. Additionally, the ignition and ECU must be stock, made by the O.E.M. as kit, or produced for consumer use by Dynojet Research.

“Quick-shifters” are still not eligible for the Parts Canada Superbike series. Data acquisition for chassis or suspension is no longer approved for any of the national classes, and all machines must meet a 106dB noise limit and employ effective silencing (i.e. no straight pipes).

Thursday, December 15, 2005

CMDRA schedule announced

From the Canadian Motorcycle Drag Racing Association

VANCOUVER, BC -- The Canadian Motorcycle Drag Racing Association has announced its 2006 race dates. They are as follows:

June 3-4 - MHDRA Drag Strip, Medicine Hat, AB - http://www.mhdra.com/ (1/8th Mile)
June 17-18 - Budweiser Motorsports Park - Edmonton, AB - http://www.budpark.com/
July 1-2 - Mission Raceway Park, Mission, BC - http://www.missionraceway.com/
July 22-23 - Northern Lights Raceway, Fort St. John, BC -
http://www.northernlightsraceway.ca/
Aug. 12-13 - Budweiser Motorsports Park, Edmonton, AB - http://www.budpark.com/
Sept. 16-17 - Mission Raceway Park Mission, BC - http://www.missionraceway.com/
Sept. 18 - Awards Banquet - Mission, BC - www.cmdra.com

In other series news, the CMDRA is developing a new class for the 2006 race season. The VRXSE Screamin' Eagle V-Rod Destroyer is Harley-Davidson's first out-of-the-box, drag racing motorcycle. Based on the VRSC family and tuned by Custom Vehicle Operations, this bike can do a quarter-mile run in under 10 seconds. The CMDRA will also be holding an "East Meets West" Challenge for the Destroyer class.

For more information on the CMDRA please check out its website at www.cmdra.com.

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

Harley-Davidson Canada earns award

From Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada

TORONTO, ON -- Inspired leadership, impressive growth, profitability and industry-leading business practices have earned Canadian company Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada membership in Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies Platinum Club, one of this country's most elite business designations.

Platinum Club members form an exclusive group of Canadian-owned and managed companies that consistently excel in every aspect of business. To become a Platinum Club member, companies must maintain their designation as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies for a minimum of six consecutive years, subject to annual operational and financial review. In 2005 a total of only 31 Canadian companies received this honour.

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada, headquartered in Vancouver, is the exclusive wholesale distributor for Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles, parts, accessories and related products in Canada.

"The achievements of Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada are truly remarkable," said John Hughes, Partner, Private Company Services group with Deloitte and National Leader of the Best Managed program. "Sustaining business growth and profitability over a long period of time is extremely challenging. This dynamic company has managed its growth successfully while continuing to demonstrate entrepreneurial agility, responding nimbly to shifting opportunities and market demands."

Attributes of Platinum Club members include the ability to anticipate their customers' future needs, develop the right set of products and services at the right time, successfully manage growth over time, expand operations nationally and internationally, and attract and retain the right talent. These companies also continue to demonstrate an entrepreneurial agility, responding nimbly to shifting opportunities and market demands.

The 2005 Best Managed winners will be announced on Feb. 3. A one-day Symposium for winners follows on Feb. in Toronto. At a black-tie Gala that evening, Best Managed winners will celebrate their success with their executive management teams and fellow honourees.

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

PowerSports tour hits Winnipeg

From WPSA

WINNIPEG, MB — The PowerSports Snowmobile Tour will stage the seventh round of its 2005-2006 championship at CanWest Global Stadium in Winnipeg. The event is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25-26 at the CanWest Global Park, home of the Winnipeg Goldeyes Baseball Club.

The announcement was made by Tour race director and Winnipeg resident Blair Bodley as well as Goldeyes CFO Jason McRae-King. Jamie Anseeuw, team manager for multiple-time PowerSports Snowmobile Tour champion Blair Morgan Racing Team, also participated.

Tickets will start at $15 for a one-day, Saturday-only pass, and a Sunday-only pass is $25. Two-day weekend adult passes are $35, while a family two-day ticket (two adults and two children) is just $99. Pit passes can be purchased for $10 per day. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster (204-780-3333) or visit www.wpsaracing.com for more information.

Though the Tour competed here last season, this year’s event is the first at CanWest Global Park, which is situated in the heart of downtown Winnipeg.

“We’re pleased to return to Winnipeg this season and we’re looking forward to racing at CanWest Global Park,” said PowerSports Entertainment CEO Rick Murphy. “Winnipeg is a vibrant city and represents a key Canadian market. We’re expecting this to be a marquee event on the PowerSports Snowmobile Tour.”

“We’re excited to welcome the PowerSports Snowmobile Tour to our beautiful ballpark,” said McRae-King. “Snowmobiling is an important part of the local recreation scene and the PowerSports Snowmobile Tour is the pinnacle of snowmobile racing. We’re also pleased this event will help showcase CanWest Global Park as a year-round facility. This should be an exciting event for our fans, our city and the racers alike.”

Monday, December 12, 2005

Awards jackpot increases

From SUPERSHOW Events

TORONTO, ON -- SUPERSHOW 2006, North America’s largest and most comprehensive motorcycle show, is so chock full of exclusive features that it promises something for every motorcycle enthusiast from superbikes to choppers.

The SUPERSHOW is an event for riders by riders. With a full line-up of stage events, activities, contests, awards and prize money, and special guests including U.S. TV personality Michele Smith of American Thunder, the Show is packed with fun and entertainment for motorcyclists of all ages and interests. Set for Jan. 6–8 at the Toronto International Centre, the 2006 edition of the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW is a celebration of its 30th consecutive year as Canada’s Motorcycle Show.

The SUPERSHOW 2006 Custom Bike Awards Competition commemorates its 30th anniversary by increasing its jackpot to $35,000, up $10,000 from 2005, with new prizes and incentives for out of province and out of country competitors. Mid-USA Motorcycle Parts Canada, main sponsor of the Awards Competition, is also title sponsor of the SUPERSHOW’s Main Street feature area for custom motorcycles.

HD HAULN', a fantastic 1990 Peterbilt Hot Rod Truck will be the backdrop for a pair of custom Harley-Davidsons, owned by Bobby Bates of Mississauga, entered into the SUPERSHOW 2006 showbike competition. The HD HAULN' Harley-Davidson themed, orange and black Quality Custom is an active ¼-mile Big Rig Drag Racer with a 425 HP Cat Engine and 15 Speed Overdrive with suicide doors and six inch chopped cab.

Exclusive to the SUPERSHOW, Classic Chopper Inc. company president Richard Hains has announced the launch of the company’s new 'Billy Bike' replica. The 'Billy Bike' was the legendary chopper, ridden by Dennis Hopper's character, in the popular 1970 movie 'Easy Rider'. SUPERSHOW 2006 is the only show where enthusiasts of this classic movie can see the new 'Billy Bike' showcased alongside the world's most authentic replica of the 'Captain America Chopper', Peter Fonda's ride in Easy Rider.

Also exclusive to the SUPERSHOW, the classy and rare – number 210 of a total of 300 built – MV Agusta 1000cc Tamburini will be displayed by owner Doug Teague of Warrenton, VA. This amazing and stylish guest bike can be seen in the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum display.

Show-goers can access show information and updates at www.supershowevents.com as well as download special opening day admission discount coupons.

Stewart doubles Canada

From Clear Channel Entertainment

VANCOUVER, BC – Kawasaki’s James Stewart, of Haines City, FL, won his second Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP race in a row at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium Saturday. KTM’s Nathan Ramsey, of Temecula, CA, won the Supercross Lites division.

Honda’s Kyle Lewis, of Henderson, NV, won the holeshot in the Supercross main event with Stewart on his rear wheel. Suzuki’s Ricky Carmichael, of Havana, FL, and Yamaha’s Chad Reed, of Australia, started mid-pack as Stewart moved into the lead on lap 1. Reed and Carmichael traded positions on lap 2 before Carmichael made the pass to secure the position.

Stewart led all 20 laps en route to his second-career Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP race. Carmichael was second while Reed was third.

“It was not the start I wanted,” said Carmichael. “If you want to put yourself in a better position, you can’t start the race like that. Only bad things can happen when you get a start like that.”

“It was a great race tonight, and I love racing here in Canada,” said Stewart. “My parents really helped me keep on track this week and come into the weekend really prepared. I do not feel 100 per cent confident yet because I still have a lot of work ahead of me.”

Ramsey, who won last year’s main event in Vancouver, earned the holeshot in the Supercross Lites division followed by Honda’s Billy Laninovich, of Corona, CA. Last week’s winner in Toronto, Davi Millsaps, of Cairo, GA, started near last place and worked his way into fourth on lap 4.

Honda’s Millsaps moved into second place on lap 12 but was unable to catch Ramsey. Ramsey picked up the win; Millsaps and Laninovich finished second and third respectively. Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites competition begins Jan. 7 at Angel Stadium of Anaheim in Anaheim, CA.

“This is a great race for me,” said Ramsey. “I had a great start and was able to pull away from the pack early on. I felt some heat from Davi late in the race, so I put my head down and finished strong. I look forward to some great competition in the Supercross Lites class this year.”

Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP Event Results
1. James Stewart, Haines City, FL, Kawasaki; 2. Ricky Carmichael, Havana, FL, Suzuki; 3. Chad Reed, Australia, Yamaha; 4. Ivan Tedesco, Murrieta, CA, Suzuki; 5. Michael Byrne, Murrieta, CA, Kawasaki; 6. David Vuillemin, France, Honda; 7. Jason Thomas, Melrose, FL, Honda; 8. Nick Wey, Dewitt, MI, Honda; 9. Heath Voss, Mico, TX, Yamaha; 10. Jeff Gibson, Westerville, OH, Honda

Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP Season Standings
1. Stewart, 50; 2. Carmichael, 44; 3. Reed, 40; 4. Tedesco, 36; 5. Byrne, 31; 6. Wey, 29; 7. Thomas, 28; 8. Gibson, 23; 9. Justin Buckelew, Riverside, CA, Honda, 21; 10. Ryan Clark, Phoenix, Suzuki, 18

Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Lites Event Results
1. Nathan Ramsey, Temecula, CA, KTM; 2. Davi Millsaps, Cairo, GA, Honda; 3. Billy Laninovich, Corona, CA, Honda; 4. Ryan Sipes, Vine Grove, KY, Suzuki; 5. Andrew Short, Colorado Spring, CO, Honda; 6. Darcy Lange, Courtenay, BC, Kawasaki; 7. Josh Hansen, Temecula, CA, KTM; 8. Ryan Morais, Menifee, CA, Suzuki; 9. Jake Weimer, Corona, CA, Honda; 10. Michael LaPaglia, Murrieta, CA, Suzuki
12. Mitch Cooke, Brookfield, NS, Honda; 13. Brady Sheren, Surrey, BC, Kawasaki; 14. Ryan Lockhart, Springhill, NS, Suzuki; 16. Kyle Keast, Lindsay, ON, Honda

KTM Junior Supercross Challenge Results
1. S. Farris; 2. D. Riesach; 3. Z. Fisher; 4. B. Leitner; 5. A. Burchell; 6. W. Waddell; 7. J. Pettis; 8. B. Berrington; 9. B. Rivier; 10. J. Voldeng; 11. L. Patjas; 12. S. Wallin; 13. J. Heinonen; 14. N. Bruno; 15. S. Dessau

Friday, December 9, 2005

NEED CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS?

The Inside Motorcycles / IMX Holiday Buyers' Guide is on its way to subscribers... you should be receiving it shortly.

For those hoping to get a jump on their shopping for the two-wheel fanatic(s) in their family, we've produced a PDF file of the Holiday Buyers' Guide.

Click here to download your own advance copy of the 2005 Inside Motorcycles / IMX Holiday Buyers' Guide. (NOTE: This file is 3.5 Mb)

Tuesday, December 6, 2005

New CMRC national schedule

From CMRC Racing

2006 CANADIAN MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS SCHEDULE

May 27-28 Ste-Julie, QC
June 3-4 Gopher Dunes, Courtland, ON
June 17-18 The Wastelands, Nanaimo, BC
June 24-25 Wild Rose MX Park, Calgary, AB
July 8-9 Moto Valley Raceway, Regina, SK
July 15-16 Shadow Valley Raceway, Morden, MB
Aug. 5-6 Riverglade MX Park, Moncton, NB
Aug. 12-13 Sand Del Lee, Richmond, ON
Aug. 19-20 The Trans Can, Walton, ON

Monday, December 5, 2005

Stewart takes round 1

From Clear Channel Entertainment

TORONTO, ON – Kawasaki’s James Stewart of Haines City, FL won the first Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP race of the season at Rogers Centre Saturday night. Honda’s Davi Millsaps, of Cairo, GA won the Supercross Lites main event.

Stewart, racing in his inaugural Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP won the holeshot and led the first three laps in the Supercross class but crashed in turn 1. Carmichael, who started fourth worked his way into second place on lap 2 and moved into the lead after Stewart crashed. Stewart moved into second and swapped positions with Carmichael for the lead.

Carmichael led until lap 17 when Stewart moved into the lead and held on for his first-ever Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP win. Carmichael finished second, while Yamaha’s Chad Reed of Australia finished third.

“Every time I ride I learn something new,” said Carmichael. “It’s always motivating to get beat when you win a lot. It makes it fun to get your butt whipped. There’s only one way to go and that’s to get better. I will learn from James and get better.”

“I felt really comfortable tonight,” said Stewart. “I felt really strong this year and feel like I can get this. I knew the fans really wanted a race. If you have your butt kicked last year by this guy [Carmichael], you’d come ready to race too. I have been a winner my whole life and have a lot of work to do.”

Honda’s Andrew Short, of Colorado Springs jumped out to an early lead in the Supercross Lites class with KTM riders Josh Hansen and Nathan Ramsey in second and third, respectively. Short led the first six laps before pulling off the track due to a rough landing on the triple jump. Hansen led the next two laps but Millsaps made the pass on lap 9 and won his first race on a Honda.

Event Results

1. James Stewart, Kawasaki; 2. Ricky Carmichael, Suzuki; 3. Chad Reed, Yamaha; 4. Ivan Tedesco, Suzuki; 5. Nick Wey, Honda; 6. Michael Byrne, Kawasaki; 7. Jason Thomas, Honda; 8. Justin Buckelew, Honda; 8. Jeff Gibson, Honda; 9. Doug DeHaan Thorndale, ON, Honda

Supercross Lites Event Results

1. Davi Millsaps, Honda; 2. Josh Hansen, KTM; 3. Billy Laninovich, Honda; 4. Jake Weimer, Honda; 5. Michael Willard, KTM; 6. Mitch Cooke, Brookfield, NS, Honda; 7. Brady Sheren, Surrey, BC, Kawasaki; 8. Ryan Lockhart, Springhill, NS, Suzuki; 9. Dennis Ewing, Honda; 10. Kyle Keast, Lindsay, ON, Honda

KTM Junior Supercross Challenge Results

1. R. Beaton; 2. K. Walker; 3. C. Strachan; 4. C. Moore; 5. M. Pepin; 6. B. Smethhurst; 7. M. Machan; 8. F. LeFlamme; 9. C. Buckley; 10. L. Godkin; 11. R. Piercey; 12. B. Wenner; 13. N. Learn; 14. B. Cormier; 15. T. Wilkin

Thursday, December 1, 2005

KTM supports Canada at ISDE

From the Canadian Motorcycle Association

HAMILTON, ON -- The board of directors of the Canadian Motorcycle Association is very pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached for sponsorship of the Canadian Trophy Team at the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE). The World Championship for National Teams will be held in New Zealand next November.

KTM Canada in association with ALDO SHOES will provide travel, housing and bike transportation assistance to the six riders who are selected for the Trophy Team.

Information with respect to team applications and the qualifying criteria will be available from CMA sometime in December.

The Association is grateful to KTM Canada and Aldo Shoes for providing this exceptional support for our ISDE Team which is especially welcome in the year of the CMA 60th Anniversary and our first hosting of a World Championship Enduro, which takes place in July in Parry Sound, ON.

Richmond rides on Pirellis

From Pirelli U.S.A.

Pirelli has reached an agreement to supply the Richmond Kawasaki team, which will be competing in the Amp’d Mobil AMA Supercross Series in 2006. Richmond Kawasaki riders Darcy Lange and Teddy Maier will be competing in the Supercross Lights West series, while teammates Kyle Chisholm and Donnie McGourty will compete in the Supercross Lights East series.

Lange has won two AMA National Arenacross Championships, the most recent one in 2004 and on Pirelli tires.

Pirelli’s marketing manager Chris Wall said, “We are very happy to be working with Richmond Kawasaki as they step up to a new challenge. We have great confidence in the team and their talented riders and look forward to a year of many successes.”

This will be Richmond Kawasaki’s first year competing in the Supercross series and the second year that the team is sponsored by Pirelli.

Wednesday, November 30, 2005

Superbikes return to Quebec

From Professional Motorsports Productions

TORONTO, ON -- A return to Le Circuit Mont-Tremblant highlights the 2006 Parts Canada Superbike Championship schedule, which was released yesterday.

After a one-year absence the classic Quebec venue will play host to the second round of the series June 2-4. The track previously hosted rounds of the national tour in 2003 and 2004.

The 2006 season will play out over seven rounds on six weekends. The series will have its traditional kick-off at Shannonville Motorsport Park, near Belleville, ON, on the May 18-21 Victoria Day Long Weekend. It will conclude back at Shannonville on the Labour Day Weekend, Sept. 1-3.

“Bringing the Parts Canada Superbike Championship back to the fans of Quebec was always a priority for us,” said Colin Fraser of Professional Motorsports Productions, which organizes the Canadian series. “We are thrilled to be heading back to Le Circuit Mont-Tremblant, a challenging race track with a rich history in Canadian motorsport.”

Following the Mont-Tremblant round of the series the tour will head west to Calgary’s Race City Motorsport Park for round 3 on the June 30-July 2 Canada Day Weekend. From there the national championship visits another of Canada’s storied race tracks, Mosport International Raceway in Bowmanville, ON for its traditional July 14-16 doubleheader.

The series then moves to Atlantic Motorsport Park in Shubenacadie, NS Aug. 11-13 before closing out at Shannonville three weeks later.

PMP is also looking into adding a round of the Suzuki SV650 Cup at Edmonton’s Stratotech Park the weekend before the full Race City national.

Posters featuring the 2006 Parts Canada Superbike schedule will be available at this weekend’s Toronto Motorcycle Show and will be inserted in an upcoming issue of Inside Motorcycles magazine.

The series will be announcing updates to its technical regulations soon. These will include horsepower adjustments for the Dynojet dyno regulated classes.

2006 Parts Canada Superbike Championship Schedule
Round 1 May 18-21 Shannonville Motorsport Park (Pro Track) Shannonville, ON
Round 2 June 2-4 Le Circuit Mont-Tremblant Mont-Tremblant, QC
Round 3 June 30-July 2 Race City Motorsport Park Calgary, AB
Round 4 July 14-15 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 5 July 14-16 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 6 Aug. 11-13 Atlantic Motorsport Park Shubenacadie, NS
Round 7 Sept. 1-3 Shannonville Motorsport Park (Long Track) Shannonville, ON

Supercross live from Toronto

From Clear Channel Entertainment

AURORA, IL – Clear Channel Entertainment’s Motor Sports division has announced that Thursday's pre-race press conference for the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP at Toronto’s Rogers Centre, featuring defending World Supercross GP champion Ricky Carmichael and former World Supercross GP champion Chad Reed, will be webcast LIVE at 2:00 p.m. (EST) on www.supercross.cc.com.

Fans from around the world can listen to Carmichael and Reed discuss the 2005-’06 race for the championship from the opening round of the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP from Toronto’s Rogers Centre. Supercross LIVE’s Jason Weigandt will host the press conference.

Supercross LIVE!, the official webcast of the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP/Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series, will begin its regular season broadcasting schedule beginning Saturday 7:00 p.m. local time. Supercross LIVE! features live race coverage, the post-race press conference and a Q&A call in show for fans to interact with Supercross LIVE! hosts and guests.

To access all of the live webcasts throughout the season go to www.supercross.cc.com. Archived shows will also be available to fans throughout the year.

Saturday night’s race will be webcast live on www.supercross.cc.com, starting at 7:00 p.m. (EST).

Carmichael ready

From Clear Channel Entertainment

AURORA, IL – On Saturday, Canadian supercross fans will witness Ricky Carmichael, the greatest motocross racer of all time, defend his World Supercross GP championship at the opening round of the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP at Toronto’s Rogers Centre.

That evening Suzuki’s Carmichael, who won seven supercross main events last year, will begin his defense of the greatest season of all time. After winning last year’s World Supercross GP in dominant fashion, the Havana, FL native captured every other major championship, including the AMA Supercross Series, the 250cc AMA Motocross, the Motocross des Nations and the U.S. Open.

Lining up with Carmichael, the winner of 40 World Supercross GP/AMA Supercross Series races, in Toronto is the most impressive field of riders the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP has ever had. Carmichael will be challenged by two-time regional AMA Supercross Series champion James Stewart and former World Supercross GP champion Chad Reed.

“I’m going to Canada to defend my championship,” said Carmichael. “I’m excited that Chad Reed, James Stewart, Michael Byrne and David Vuillemin will be there as well. My training program is dialed in, and I am doing everything I can to prepare for this season.”

Fans can be a part of Carmichael’s return to Toronto by taking advantage of hotel and discounts on event ticket packages. For information on hotels, call Lori Parker at 416-341-2255.

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

Former champs in field

By John Hopkins

TORONTO, ON -- Five Canadians, including former champions Blair Morgan and Michael Island, are among the first wave of SnoCross racers selected for the field at ESPN Winter X Games 10.

Morgan, from Prince Albert, SK and Warminster, ON's Island are joined by Humboldt, SK's Robbie Malinoski, Mathieu Morin of Val D'Or, QC and Prince George, BC racer Steve Taylor in the 12 riders confirmed for the event. The field will eventually consist of 20 riders.

The other seven SnoCross selections are Brett Bender, D.J. Eckstrom, Willie Elam, T.J. Gulla, Levi LaVallee, Steve Martin and Mike Schultz.

Winter X Games 10 will be held for the fifth time in Aspen/Snowmass, CO Jan. 28-31.

Monday, November 28, 2005

SPEED and CBS for SX

From Clear Channel Entertainment

AURORA, IL – Clear Channel Entertainment‘s Motor Sports division has announced the television schedule for the 2005-06 Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP/Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series.

Broadcasting on SPEED Channel and CBS Sports, this year’s Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP/Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series television package gives fans complete coverage of the 17 races in the AMA Supercross class and AMA Supercross Lites class on both network and cable television.

2005-’06 Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP/Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series Television Schedule

Air Time Date City Class Network Airdate

6:00 PM ET 12.3.05 Toronto Supercross SPEED 12.4.05
6:00 PM ET 12.3.05 Toronto SX Lites SPEED 12.10.05
6:00 PM ET 12.10.05 Vancouver Supercross SPEED 12.11.05
6:00 PM ET 12.10.05 Vancouver SX Lites SPEED 12.17.05
5:00 PM ET N/A Various Season Preview CBS 12.25.05
12:30 PM ET 1.7.06 Anaheim Supercross CBS 1.8.06
6:00 PM ET 1.7.06 Anaheim SX Lites SPEED 1.14.06
6:00 PM ET 1.14.06 Phoenix Supercross SPEED 1.15.06
6:00 PM ET 1.14.06 Phoenix SX Lites SPEED 1.21.06
1:00 PM ET 1.21.06 Anaheim Supercross CBS 1.22.06
6:00 PM ET 1.21.06 Anaheim SX Lites SPEED 1.28.06
12:00 PM ET 1.28.06 San Francisco Supercross CBS 1.29.06
6:00 PM ET 1.28.06 San Francisco SX Lites SPEED 2.4.06
5:00 PM ET 2.4.06 Anaheim Supercross SPEED 2.5.06
6:00 PM ET 2.4.06 Anaheim SX Lites SPEED 2.11.06
12:00 PM ET 2.11.06 San Diego Supercross CBS 2.12.06
6:00 PM ET 2.11.06 San Diego SX Lites SPEED 2.18.06
12:30 PM ET 2.18.06 St. Louis Supercross CBS 2.19.06
6:00 PM ET 2.18.06 St. Louis SX Lites SPEED 2.25.06
4:30 PM ET 2.25.06 Atlanta Supercross SPEED 2.26.06
6:00 PM ET 2.25.06 Atlanta SX Lites SPEED 3.4.06
6:00 PM ET 3.4.06 Indianapolis Supercross SPEED 3.5.06
6:00 PM ET 3.4.06 Indianapolis SX Lites SPEED 3.11.06
6:00 PM ET 3.18.06 Orlando Supercross SPEED 3.19.06
6:00 PM ET 3.18.06 Orlando SX Lites SPEED 3.25.06
6:00 PM ET 3.25.06 Detroit Supercross SPEED 3.26.06
6:00 PM ET 3.25.06 Detroit SX Lites SPEED 4.1.06
6:00 PM ET 4.1.06 Houston Supercross SPEED 4.2.06
6:00 PM ET 4.1.06 Houston SX Lites SPEED 4.8.06
6:00 PM ET 4.22.06 Irving Supercross SPEED 4.23.06
6:00 PM ET 4.22.06 Irving SX Lites SPEED 4.29.06
12:30 PM ET 4.29.06 Seattle Supercross CBS 4.30.06
7:30 PM ET 4.29.06 Seattle SX Lites SPEED 5.6.06
6:00 PM ET 5.6.06 Las Vegas Supercross SPEED 5.7.06
7:30 PM ET 5.6.06 Las Vegas SX Lites SPEED 5.13.06

Friday, November 25, 2005

Just for openers

By John Hopkins

TORONTO, ON -- Want your face painted for free, great food and awesome deals to boot? Then you may want to check out the Jack n' Jills Motorsports open house tomorrow (Saturday).

Low priced items include HJC Floater suits at $249, plus taxes, 8,000 watt gas power generators at $2195 while quantities last, Woody studs with washer $2.49 and full face helmets for $99.99, taxes included.

Family fun includes free face painting, coffee, hot chocolate and hourly giveaways. There will also be a BBQ with all proceeds going to the Georgian Bay Snow Riders.

More information is available toll free at 877-527-4386. Jack n' Jills is located at 105 4th Street in Midland.

Thursday, November 24, 2005

Tour of Hope in '06

From Sherri Deschamps

On Saturday, June 24, 2006 the Prostate Extreme Team will be looking for motor head enthusiasts in the Flamborough area to come out and join fellow riders from across Ontario to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer Research.

The ride will begin at the Flamboro Valley Campground and travel the scenic back roads of the beautiful Flamborough Region

A minimum event pledge of $50 is required along with a $25 entry fee, which includes a hot lunch after the ride, extensive prize table and a great opportunity to meet other motorcycle enthusiasts all riding for a great cause from all over Ontario.

Prostate Cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men. Prostate Cancer affects one in seven men in the course of their lifetime. If left untreated Prostate Cancer can be life threatening, however with early detection, cure rates are as high as 95 per cent. All men over the age of 40 are potentially at risk and should speak to their doctor about annual testing.

The Prostate Extreme Team is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising both awareness and funds for the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada and is please to announce the second of three events for its 2006 “Tour of Hope” fundraising campaigns.

The Prostate Cancer Tour of Hope consists of a “Tour of Hope Snowmobile Ride," a “Tour of Hope Motorcycle Ride” and a “Tour of Hope ATV Ride." For more information on the Prostate Extreme Team's upcoming events, or to download pledge and registration forms please visit www.prostateextremeteam.com or call 1-905-847-8077.

This ride is a family event and is open to all.

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Vuillemin in Vancouver

From Clear Channel Entertainment

ROCKFORD, IL -- Clear Channel Entertainment‘s Motor Sports division has announced that Team BooKoo rider David Vuillemin will race at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium Dec. 10, the second stop of the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP.

Vuillemin, who finished fourth in last year’s AMA Supercross Series, has seven career 250cc main event wins and has finished second place in the AMA Supercross Series twice throughout his career (‘00 and ’02). In 2003, Vuillemin won the opening round of World Supercross GP in Geneva, Switzerland.

“I am really excited to race Vancouver for the first time,” said Vuillemin. “I've never been there before! I am also excited to do my first official race with Team BooKoo. I am sure my mechanic, JP Savard, is happy to go race up there (Canada) since he is Canadian. He will take great pride in putting a well-tuned race bike on the line for me and Team BooKoo.”

“We are looking forward to David lining up in Vancouver,” said team owner Michael Holigan. “We have been doing a lot of testing with the Honda CR250, and this will be a great opportunity to see where we are at.”

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

SUPERSHOW welcomes all

From the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW

TORONTO, ON – When Danica Patrick began to make a name in IndyCar racing, she proved that women also love fast toys. More and more women are joining the world of motorcycle enthusiasts and are being welcomed whole-heartedly, because any motorcyclist can tell you that once you move from passenger to rider, there is no turning back.

To see the best the motorcycle industry has to offer for men and women, North America’s largest motorcycle show is the place to be. Set for Jan. 6-8, the 2006 edition of the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW is celebrating 30th years of “Everything to do With Motorcycling”.

When Speed Channel asked Michele Smith to host the popular American Thunder, no one knew what a true motorcycle enthusiast she would become. Loving every minute she is in the industry and all the great bikes that she gets to test, Michele has been quoted as saying “just hearing the sound of a motorcycle gets me going, it's really a rush!” Michele can be seen all three days of the SUPERSHOW.

Humber College’s motorcycle rider training program has added a new feature to their Rider Academy at the SUPERSHOW called “She Rides – Resources for Lady Riders." These free seminars are educational and a not-to-miss for all new female motorcycle enthusiasts.

Also designed to educate new female riders, WIMA (Women’s International Motorcycle Association) will run demonstrations throughout the weekend on topics geared specifically to women such as “How to Pick up Your Fallen Bike."

Exclusive to SUPERSHOW 2006, a new Airbrush Body Painting feature, “The Human Canvas," will present airbrush artist De Anne Lamirande. From her booth, Airways Airbrushing, De Anne will paint onto live female and male models as show attendees watch her artistry come to life on living, breathing canvases. Themes include motorcycle riding gear, animal art and exhibitor corporate identity themes.

De Anne is one of the few female airbrush artists in a field dominated by men. Look for her finished works of art on display and walking around the Show.

Title sponsor for World Enduro

By John Hopkins

HAMILTON, ON -- Georgian Bay Country has been officially named title sponsor of the FIM World Enduro Championship round slated for Parry Sound, ON next July 15-16, according to a press release from the CMA.

The organization acts as the tourism marketing association for the region, the CMA release said.

The event title will be the 2006 Georgian Bay Country Canadian Grand Prix.

"We are extremely pleased to be the exclusive title sponsor of the Canadian Grand Prix World Enduro Championship," said Kelly Krist, manager, Georgian Bay Country in the press release. "This event will put Parry Sound on the international map and bring thousands of people from around the world to enjoy not only the Enduro races but the many attractions we have to offer. We look forward to welcoming riders and visitors to our beautiful region."

Stewart Toronto bound

From Clear Channel Entertainment

AURORA, IL – Clear Channel Entertainment’s Motor Sports division announced today that Kawasaki’s James Stewart of Haines City, FL will race in the 2005-’06 Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP that starts Dec. 3, at Rogers Centre in Toronto.

Stewart, who will be making his Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP debut, joins Ricky Carmichael, the reigning Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP champion, and Chad Reed, the 2003 World Supercross GP champion, to make the most competitive Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP line-up ever.

"I felt like racing the world rounds this year because knew they would be fun, and this year’s line-up is bigger than ever,” said Stewart. “The world rounds are becoming an important part of supercross racing. I have found that I have lots of fans in other countries, and the world rounds can help our sport grow even more."

Stewart, 19, won three 250cc main events in his rookie season of AMA Supercross Series racing. Prior to entering the 250cc division Stewart won both the 125cc Eastern and Western Regional 125cc AMA Supercross Series championships.

“I think the world rounds are a great opportunity for me and our sport to reach new people,” said Stewart. “I am looking forward to seeing the Canadian fans and want to give them a great race to watch."

Friday, November 11, 2005

Reed coming to Canada

From Clear Channel Entertainment

AURORA, IL – Clear Channel Entertainment‘s Motor Sports division announced today that Yamaha’s Chad Reed will race in the 2005-2006 Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP. Reed will make his first ever appearance in front of the Canadian fans at Rogers Centre in Toronto Dec. 3 and BC Place Stadium in Vancouver Dec. 10.

Reed, 23, won his inaugural World Supercross GP championship in 2002-2003, winning his first 250cc supercross race at the Gelredome in Arnhem, Holland. That season the Australian native won nine World Supercross GP/AMA Supercross Series races as a rookie en route to his first championship.

“I’m excited to be competing in the 2005-2006 Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP events in Canada,” said Reed. “I won the championship in 2002-2003, and I am hungry to get it back. I know that Ricky [Carmichael] has once again confirmed his participation in these two events, so I am hoping the rest of the field shows up as well.”

The following season Reed won his first AMA Supercross Series championship but opted not to participate in the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 World Supercross GP.

“We are very pleased to have Chad’s commitment to race in the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP races,” said Todd Jendro, senior director of supercross, Clear Channel Entertainment -- Motor Sports. “Chad won the championship as a rookie in the 250cc class, capping off a successful season, which is very impressive. This year – with Reed and Carmichael on the starting line, the competition for the world title is going to be stronger than ever.”

"I think it's great to have Chad compete in front of the Canadian fans for the Amp’d Mobile World Supercross GP championship," said Ricky Carmichael, the reigning World Supercross GP champion. "The World Championship is definitely picking up steam, and with Chad and me committing to race is a true testament to that."

More new models in TO

From the Toronto Motorcycle Show

TORONTO, ON -- Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Victory and Vespa have already announced some of the new models they will feature at the Toronto Motorcycle Show. Now BMW, Ducati and Honda have made new product announcements in advance of the Dec. 2-4 show.

BMW will introduce several new motorcycles at the Toronto Motorcycle Show including the R1200S and K1200R, a liquid cooled inline four DOHC production naked bike that produces over 160 bhp. With a six-speed gearbox, Duolever front suspension and optional Electronic Suspension Adjustment and ABS available, the new 1200R is a bike everyone will want to see for themselves.

Show visitors can drop by the BMW booth and meet Charley Boorman from the hit television series Long Way Round. He’ll be at the Show all weekend signing autographs and talking to fans. Boorman and fellow Hollywood star and best friend, Ewan McGregor, had the ultimate adventure - circumnavigating the globe on motorcycles. The Long Way Round documented their travels - 20,000 miles in 107 days on a pair BMW R1150 GS Adventures.

Ducati Canada is showing the new Sport Classic models including the Paul Smart Replica and Sport 1000. These bikes package modern sport bike engineering with 1970s Ducati styling. Also on display is a 2006 999R, the street legal, limited-production base model used for World Superbike and AMA racing. Only ten 999Rs will be imported to Canada in 2006.

For 31 years, the Honda Gold Wing has stood alone as the ultimate touring motorcycle and the one by which all others are measured. Honda’s commitment to continuous improvement of the Gold Wing continues for 2006, with numerous changes designed to make it run cleaner, ride smoother and sound better, making the journey to the rider’s destination easier and more enjoyable.

It will be lights, music and action on Saturday and Sunday at Harley-Davidson’s Revvin’ into Winter Fashion Review. This exciting show will feature jackets, pants, vests and other casual wear from Harley-Davidson Motorclothes accessory line. Set on a raised runway in the Harley-Davison booth, against a backdrop of Harley-Davidson’s new 2006 bikes and accessories, it’s a spectacle visitors won’t want to miss.

Full information on the Toronto Motorcycle Show is available at: www.motorcycleshows.ca or www.sportshows.ca.

Thursday, November 10, 2005

Crevier to Macau

By John Hopkins

MONTREAL, QC -- Steve Crevier will compete in the Nov. 19 Macau Grand Prix on a Honda Diablo Racing Honda CBR1000RR, according to a press release from the team.

This will be the six-time Canadian Superbike champion's first visit to the famed street race in the Far East.

"It's a great honour to be representingCanada in Macau, but this track requires one to be cautious," said Crevier, the 2005 Hindle Exhaust Pro 600 Sport Bike national champion, in the release. "My brother-in-law, Michael Taylor, was involved in a vicious accident a few year back - it makes you want to keep an eye open."

Crevier, team manager Eddy Brunet and mechanic Scott Cameron will leave for Macau Saturday (Nov. 12).

The team, incidentally, will be using 16.5-inch slick tires from Pirelli, the new spec tire supplier to the Parts Canada Superbike national series.

Wednesday, November 9, 2005

Peris to Diablo Honda

From Diablo Performance

MONTREAL, QC -- Montreal's Diablo Racing is pleased to announce the addition of Chris Peris to its 2006 team lineup. Having competed in 42 races in 2005, Chris earned his place with the double championship winning team through his obvious perseverance and incredible enthusiasm.

This past season was very successful for Peris Racing. In Canada, Chris participated in only six of the eight Hindle Pro 600 Sport Bike races, yet was able to secure a strong third place finish, including two wins. In the AMA, Peris placed in the top 10 every race with a personal best of fourth in Formula Xtreme and a sixth in Supersport.

For the 2006 season, Peris will join veteran number one plate holder Steve Crevier to compete in both sport bike and Superbike Parts Canada Championship races. Mounting Diablo Honda CBR600RRs and CBR1000RRs Peris will be on the track at each Canadian race as well as all non-conflicting AMA Superbike and Supersport races throughout the U.S.

"Knowing that he had other offers on the table, I was delighted to have Chris join our team," said team manager Eddy Brunet. "Our recent success by capturing both number one plates in 2005 demonstrated Diablo's dedication to the sport and it was undoubtedly a factor is Chris' decision to play with the devil."

Engine builder Willie Vass will once again be in charge of building and tuning Chris' sportbikes. Having built the bikes that Chris rode in 2005 will inspire the young rider with confidence. Suspension guru and engineer Dale Rathwell said, "I am excited to have the opportunity to work with Chris; he's a talented rider who can really push the bikes to their limit. With his feedback I'm confident we can tune the chassis and suspension for whatever the Championship demands."

Thursday, October 27, 2005

Free parking in Toronto

From the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada

TORONTO, ON -- Toronto City Council passed a motion yesterday that will see free street parking for motorcycles and other improvements for motorcycles and motorized scooters in the City of Toronto.

The relevant parking by-laws will soon be amended to exempt motorcycles, as defined in the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, from standard parking fees at all on-street parking meters or parking machines. Also, by-laws will soon be amended to allow motorcycles to park, where on-street parking is lawfully allowed, at an angle, but not more than sixty (60) degrees to the curb.

In addition, the Toronto Parking Authority (the ‘TPA’) will submit a report to the Works Committee detailing how the TPA could designate a small area at all of their indoor and outdoor ‘Green P’ lots where motorcycles may park for free. The City will also evaluate allowing scooters to park on sidewalks.

The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada’s (MCC’s) general manager Peter Jacobs made a deputation to the Works Committee on Oct. 11 making a strong case in support of the motion, advanced by Toronto City Councillor Case Ootes (Ward 29 Toronto Danforth).

“The City is demonstrating real leadership on this issue," Jacobs said. “Motorcycles use less space on the road, less space in parking, consume less fuel and produce less emissions. With motorcycle and scooter sales increasing steadily, this decision clearly indicates the City is committed to reducing congestion and pollution. We will work to persuade other jurisdictions to follow Toronto’s lead.”

MCC is Canada’s largest association representing motorcyclists’ interests. Its membership comprises more than 200 clubs and represents over 70,000 riders from all across Canada.

Thursday, October 6, 2005

Canada to host TT style race

By John Hopkins

SYDNEY, NS – A motorcycle road race in the classic tradition of the Isle of Man is slated for Canada next fall.

The Cape Breton Festival of Speed was unveiled at a press conference in Sydney, NS yesterday. The event, which will be headlined by a motorcycle race on a 52km road circuit, is due to run Sept. 20-23.

“This is such an important day in motorsports in Canada, and in particular in Nova Scotia,” said Maureen Carroll, chair of the Cape Breton Festival of Speed.

Present at the announcement were Isle of Man TT veteran Ian Lougher of Wales, Isle of Man Tourism Minister David Cretney and Canadian racer Pat Barnes, who tackled the fabled Isle of Man event in 2004.

“With some paving, these beautiful roads will offer a suitable challenge for some of the best riders in the world,” Lougher, a seven-time Isle of Man TT champion and the current Production 600 lap record holder, said in a press release accompanying the announcement.

“There are some fast stretches and the only things I don’t see which are part of the Isle of Man are the pubs around the circuit, which I’ll miss, and the stonewalls lining the roads, which I won’t miss. I definitely want to come back next year for the race.”

Lougher toured the track on Tuesday and said he expects it to be faster than the Isle of Man circuit. Barnes predicted a top speed of 210 mph.

“An Isle of Man style competition and the Festival of Speed will raise the profile of racing in Canada, giving more exposure to Canadian riders,” said Barnes in the release.

Practice for the Cape Breton Festival of Speed is slated for the Wednesday and Thursday of the race week (Sept. 20-21), with a motorcycle charity ride planned for the Friday. Race day is Saturday, Sept. 23, and the week will conclude with a “Show and Shine” for cars, trucks and motorcycles on Sunday.

The event is the brainchild of the Membertou First Nations community and Canadian car racer and event promoter John Graham. Bernd Christmas, CEO of the Membertou Development Corporation had been working with Graham on a separate project earlier this year when they hit upon the idea of a TT-style motorcycle race.

Graham traveled to the Isle of Man for this summer’s TT event along with Membertou Chief Terry Paul.

Yesterday’s press conference was held in the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre in Sydney.

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Meg's Ride returns

By John Hopkins
with files from Rally Connex

TORONTO, ON -- Meg's Ride, a "Women Only" charity motorcycle trail ride and part of the Ontario Trail Ride Series takes place Sunday Oct. 9.

The event is hosted by the Northumberland Trail Riders Motorcycle Club in support of the Northumberland Hills Hospital/Chemo Cancer Clinic.

A minimum of $60 in pledges is required to enter. Pledge sheets are available on request from the website (www.rallyconnex.ca), email, phone or at Machine Racing (ask for Toni). Motorcycles must have a working muffler and be quiet. Sound levels of 93 dba will be enforced. CMA membership is required and is available at sign-in ($26 per year).

There will be awards, prizes, event memento and lunch provided, with special awards for out-of-province riders, a prize for the rider with the most money pledged, a prize for the rider with the most donors, a prize for the youngest rider of the day and a prize for the most senior rider of the day.

Ganaraska Trail Tours will supply a limited of rental bikes for experienced riders. Call (877) 939-5267 for more info.

There will be three riding loops to choose from: A novice/beginner loop of easy two-track trail, 5km in length; a similar loop of 12km and a final loop with options of difficulty of about 60km in length.

Contacts are Joanne Bulsara (anvilartistry@eagle.ca, 905-372-1506) or Warren Thaxter (warrent@eagle.ca, 905-372-3336).

Tuesday, September 20, 2005

CMRA Sunday Results

From Race City Motorsport Park

CMRA Race 6 results

Walt Healy's/Ranchman's Superbike top five
1. #9P, Clint McBain, Calgary, Suzuki; 2. #88P, Chad Pasowisty, Edgewater, BC, Kawasaki; 3. #8P, Kel Davidsen, Calgary, n/a; 4. #11P, Mikal Zottmann, Calgary, n/a; 5. #32A, Randy Herrmann, Calgary, Yamaha

Blackfoot Motosports Heavyweight Sportbike Pro & Brad Gavey Performance Riding Schools Heavyweight Sportbike Am combined top five
1. #9P, Clint McBain, Calgary, Suzuki; 2. #88P, Chad Pasowisty, Edgewater, BC, Kawasaki; 3. #11P, Mikal Zottmann, Calgary, n/a; 4. #8P, Kel Davidsen, Calgary, n/a; 5. #16A, Chad Stillin, Calgary, n/a

Bow Cycle Middleweight Superbike combined top five
1. #9P, Clint McBain, Calgary, Suzuki; 2. #5P, Guy Tomlinson, Calgary, Suzuki; 3. #23A, Shawn Jones, Coquitlam, BC, Kawasaki; 4. 88A, Jeremy Stepper, Calgary, n/a; 5. #19P, Dave Sushynski, Sylvan Lake, n/a

Walt Healy's Middleweight Sportbike Pro & Bow Cycle Middleweight Sportbike Am combined top five
1. #9P, Clint McBain, Calgary, Suzuki; 2. #5P, Guy Tomlinson, Calgary, Suzuki; 3. #23A, Shawn Jones, Coquitlam, BC, Kawasaki; 4. #88A, Jeremy Stepper, Calgary, n/a; 5. #19P, Dave Sushynski, Sylvan Lake, n/a

Quality Trophies Senior Open top three
1. #8P, Kel Davidsen, Calgary, n/a; 2. #16P, Shane Kuhn, Didsbury, n/a; 3. #88P, James McCarthy, Edmonton, Kawasaki

Universal Cycle Veterans top three
1. #70P, J. Jones, Calgary, n/a; 2. #70A, Peter Donegan, Beiseker, n/a; 3. #29A, Bill Marsh, Calgary, n/a

Definitely Different Leatherworks Formula II top five
1. #121P, Shawn Becker, Penticton, BC, Suzuki; 2. #76A, Peter Cronhelm, Calgary, Suzuki; 3. #3P, Willie Geczi, Calgary, Suzuki; 4. #113A, Matt Elder, Calgary, n/a; 5. #70A, Peter Donegan, Beiseker, n/a

Tage Davidsen Drywall Supplies SV Cup & T. J.'s Cycle Sportsman combined top five
1. #121P, Shawn Becker, Penticton, BC, Suzuki; 2. #76A, Peter Cronhelm, Calgary, Suzuki; 3. #3P, Willie Geczi, Calgary, Suzuki; 4. #113A, Matt Elder, Calgary, n/a; 5. #111P, Dave Prendergast, Calgary, n/a

CMRA Saturday results

From Race City Motorsport Park

CMRA ­ results round 5

Walt Healy's/Ranchman's Superbike
1. #9P, Clint McBain, Calgary; 2. #15P, Mitch Rathje, Calgary; 3. #88P, Chad Pasowisty, Edgewater, BC

Blackfoot Motosports Heavyweight Pro
1. #9P, McBain; 2. #88P, Pasowisty; 3. #15P, Rathje

Brad Gavey Performance Riding Schools Heavyweight Am
1. #32A, Randy Herrmann, Calgary; 2. #69A, Bruce Gatzsche, Calgary; 3. #73A, Cam Braaten, Regina, SK

Walt Healy's Middleweight Sportbike Pro
1. #9P, McBain; 2. #5P, Guy Tomlinson, Calgary; 3. #229P, Darren James, North Vancouver, BC

Bow Cycle Middleweight Sportbike Am
1. #808A, Robert Maurice, Summerland, BC; 2. #65A, Lee Smith, Calgary; 3. #8A, Steve Davidsen, Calgary

Bow Cycle Middleweight Superbike
1. #9P, McBain; 2. #5P, Tomlinson; 3. #23A, Shawn Jones, Coquitlam, BC

Definitely Different Leatherworks Formula II
1. #13P, Carey Fougere, Calgary; 2. #121P, Shawn Becker, Penticton, BC; 3. #3P, Willie Geczi, Calgary

Tage Davidsen Drywall Supplies SV Cup/T. J.'s Cycle Sportsman combined
1. #13P, Fougere; 2. #121P, Becker; 3. #76A, Peter Cronhelm, Calgary

Quality Trophies Senior Open
1. #8P, Kel Davidsen, Calgary; 2. #16P, Shane Kuhn, Didsbury; 3. #88P, James McCarthy, Edmonton

Universal Cycle Veterans
1. #14P, K. Croucher, n/a; 2. #70P, J. Jones, Calgary; 3. #70A, Peter Donegan, Beiseker

Pasowisty clinches championships

From Race City Motorsport Park

CALGARY, AB -- Chad Pasowisty had no idea when the 2005 motorcycle racing season opened that he would finish it as a champion. In fact, the Edgewater, BC resident probably would have said he was retired. He was wrong.

When BC tuner Murray Newman, who provided the Kawasakis that Dale Yamada rode to the 2004 CMRA titles, called just prior to the first race of the 2005 season, Pasowisty decided that he wasn't all that retired after all.

On Sunday at Race City, Pasowisty set the seal on a very successful comeback season by taking both the Calgary Motorcycle Roadracing Association Superbike and Heavyweight Sport Bike championships.

At mid-season, after a couple of successful races, Newman and Pasowisty came to a parting of ways. Once again it looked as if Pasowisty was headed for the sidelines, but up stepped James McCarthy of Edmonton with a very quick 1000cc Kawasaki and the two quickly formed a very potent partnership.

Pasowisty finished second in Sunday's Superbike and Heavyweight races, trailing national rider Clint McBain, who won every race he entered on the weekend. In the final for the Superbikes Pasowisty admitted that he took it easy with the championship on his mind.

"I was going to stick with Clint because he was sort of showing me a good way around the track," Pasowisty said. "About halfway through I thought, 'Man, I can't let this [the championship] go,' and I started slowing down."

Pasowisty's only real challenger for the title, Mitch Rathje startled him on lap 8 by passing him for second on the back straight. "I started picking it up," Pasowisty recalled. "I thought, 'What am I doing?' and slowed down again."

Rathje was closing on McBain when the chain on his Yamaha broke, knocking him out of the race. Kel Davidsen of Calgary took over second place in the final standings with his third place finish.

There was more grief for Rathje in the Heavyweight race. A mid-race red flag for a crash stopped the entire field and the starting order was reset based upon the previous lap. Rathje's crew had calculated the fuel load a bit too optimistically and he ran out of gas halfway through the final lap.

McBain also won both races for 600cc bikes --­ Middleweight Superbike and Middleweight Sport Bike. Second both times was Guy Tomlinson, who finished the day as champion in both categories. Tomlinson even managed to lead each race, and had some close dicing with McBain before the latter finally took the point for good.

"Each time this weekend that he's been with me, he's taught me something," Tomlinson said, adding that he sees McBain as more a mentor than a competitor.

Carey Fougere of Calgary is also a double champion, earning the honour in both Sportsman and Formula II. Davidsen won the Senior Open title and John Jones is the champion in the Veterans class. Shawn Becker of Penticton took the SV Cup title. Another BC rider, Shawn Jones of Coquitlam topped the Middleweight Sport Bike Amateur class and Cam Braaten of Regina was tops among the Heavyweight Amateurs.

Blackfoot re-signs riders

From Blackfoot Motosports

CALGARY, AB -- Team Honda Canada Blackfoot Fox Racing is pleased to announce the re-signing of five-time consecutive MX1 champion Jean Sebastien Roy, two-time consecutive MX2 West champion Dusty Klatt, and MX2 East championship No. 3 ranked Mitch Cooke for the 2006 CMRC Canadian Motocross Championships.

Quebec’s JSR and British Columbia’s Klatt will campaign the 2006 MX1 CMRC National Motocross Championships aboard the potent Honda CRF450R four-stroke. Cooke will campaign the four western rounds of the MX1 points chase and then focus exclusively on the MX2 East Championship. The Nova Scotia native, who won his first ever national moto this year will ride the all new dual-exhaust 2006 CRF250R.

The team will also contest the ’05 NAPA Montreal Supercross Oct. 1 and both Canadian rounds of the World Championship Supercross to be held in Toronto, Dec. 3 and Vancouver Dec. 10. American rider Chad Charbonneau who finished the year in forth position in the MX2 East series will also be joining the team in these events.

“We’re excited to have JSR, Dusty, and Mitch back with us for another season of great racing next year. The 2005 Hondas were awesome, championship winning bikes and we’re convinced the ’06 models will be even better,” said Blackfoot team manager Jason Mitchell. “We’re also happy to announce that the team will be at the Montreal Supercross in October and the World Championship Supercross rounds in Toronto and Vancouver in December.

“While we have signed our Canadian contingent of riders we are still in discussions and confirm our additional riders for the 2006 CMRC series including our MX2 West rider.”

Friday, September 16, 2005

Would Someone Tell Rossi He's Driving a Ferrari in 2007...

By James Neilson

More from the ongoing will-he-or-won’t-he rumour that MotoGP King Valentino Rossi is headed to Ferrari to partner Mclaren star Kimi Raikkonen in 2007...

In an interview with Italian Newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport Rossi nixed rumours that he was heading for Formula One after his Yamaha MotoGP contract expires after the 2006 season. Rossi goes so far as to say that Ferrari tech boss Ross Brawn’s comments about a testing program already being in place for next year are categorically untrue.

Since the rumours began Rossi has maintained his MotoGP commitments would not allow him the time required to learn the complexities of driving a modern-day, state-of –the-art, Formula One machine.

"Let's suppose it's only six of them (Ferrari Tests): it would be almost a full time effort, and it would mean I decided to race in F1, which I haven't."

"If one day this happens, then I would only do it to try to win, and this requires a 100% effort, both mentally and time-wise."

"I heard Ross Brawn's words with a smile: maybe for programs regarding myself it would be nice if I too was informed about them. Instead I don't know anything about that and it's not in my plans."

"Everyone talks about me, without me being part of that environment, it's a really strange thing," he said.

Rossi even hits out at some Formula One luminaries for negative comments they have made to the press.

"And I also hear sharp, even nasty opinions about myself," he added.

"(Flavio) Briatore, (Giancarlo) Fisichella, and (Jarno) Trulli: maybe they are a bit envious of me, with a will to demonstrate that the F1 world and drivers are better than those of motorbikes. I think the opposite, but then again maybe they're afraid of me. "

By nature I can't think of what will happen in two years' time and start to get ready now. But it's clear that I have to do something, to find new challenges."

Don’t you just love good old fashioned trash talking? It's interesting that those most vocally against Rossi entering Formula One are the two Italian drivers, Fisichella and Trulli. Maybe they’re true colours aren’t Maranello red…They look awfully green when the subject of Rossi to Ferrari comes up.

Briatore just likes to add his two cents to everything though...There will be more on this one for sure.

For more Rossi stuff check out http://www.rossifiles.com/.

Thursday, September 15, 2005

Welland this weekend

From CMRC Racing

WELLAND, ON -- The Welland County Motorcycle Club (WCMC) will host round 7 of the CMRC Canadian National Dirt Track Series Saturday.

This great event will also be a fund raiser for the Special Olympics. The Welland County Motorcycle Club / Niagara Motorcycle Raceway will donate $2 from each adult admission to the Special Olympics Committee. The Special Olympics Committee will also be conducting a ½ & ½ draw, raffles for prizes and other fundraisers at the races. The funds raised will be used to send Niagara area Special Olympians to future Special Olympics throughout North America.

The club asks that the riders support this fundraiser by making themselves available in the grandstands area between races to sign autographs. To this end, please bring photos to sign and hand out. There is no fixed schedule for the signing, whenever you have time between your races.

The 23-acre property is located near the south-east corner of Welland, an easy 15 to 20 minutes ride from Niagara Falls, and the border at Buffalo.

The Club grounds feature a large, 4000 sq. ft. clubhouse, a covered pavilion, washrooms and showers (hot and cold running water), a large camping area and a fast 1/4 mile oval dirt race track. The property is completely fenced, providing ample security.

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

McCullough steals the show

From CMRC Racing

WALTON, ON -- With a light breeze and a perfect 27 degree temperature, the conditions and atmosphere could not have been better for the inaugural Eastern Vet Championships race held at Walton, ON this past weekend. One-hundred-and-sixty riders took part in the event.

Sturgess Suzuki's Rob Mc Cullough stole the show taking top honours in +40A, +35A and +30A competition. Mc Cullough was chased all day by Suzuki's Bill Wallin and both Coles brothers, Jeff and Brad.

Inglis Suzuki's Bill Van Vugt Sr. battled with Chris Lee to take first in +50 while Embert Berkers took third place. In the final 20-minute moto the top three stalked each other, and they were all within three bike lengths of each other right to the checkers. It was a fast pace that turned out to be one of the day's most intense battles.

Honda-mounted Tracy Rowan took the Women's +25 title, edging out KTM's Teena Mackin.

In a prelude to Sunday's dominance, Machine Racing's Jay Burke dominated the Youth support action with cousins Andy and Marcus nailing down second and third respectively.

Sunday's race action was just as intense. The Tom Bitz prepared track remained immaculate throughout the day for the 400 rider entries.

Burke showed why he is so highy regarded as a future star as he dominated the three-moto Pro/Am feature. Mc Cullough, Marty Burr, Bill Wallin, Derek Hamm and a host of hard charging riders lined up to take a
run at the #33 Honda but to no avail this day.

The entire Burke clan had a strong showing in several classes, which made the weekend more special for them. Jay's cousin Andy raced to a fourth in 125cc Jr action and second in GP Junior. Andy's brother Marcus won the 125cc Junior class, finished third in GP Junior and earned the overall in the second annual Co-ed race with partner Jolene Van Vugt. Mark, father of Marcus and Andy, uncle of Jay, took third in the very competitive +40 division.

Other weekend notables included: Lucas Godkin, who battled B-TEC's Dustin Burr for the overall in 50cc 4-6; Marc Galeckas took top honours in 250cc Junior action; Dylan Langlois went 1-1 ahead of Connor Novak in 125cc Intermediate racing. For more results visiting www.cmrcracing.com.

Next week the Fox Fall Hi Point Series moves to RJ Motosport Park in Barrie, ON.

Trombino breaks leg in crash

By John Hopkins

TORONTO, ON -- Frank Trombino reportedly suffered a compound fracture of his lower leg in a high speed crash at Nelson Ledges last weekend.

According to Jeff Bloor of Cyclemax, who said he had spoken to Trombino since the incident, the Kleinburg, ON racer was resting comfortably in hospital in Warren, OH and was scheduled to have surgery on the leg, which was broken just above the ankle, today (Tuesday).

Bloor said the accident was caused by a rear tire blowout on Trombino's bike, but it was undetermined what had led to the failure.

Trombino was taking part in a WERA event at the track.

Thursday, September 8, 2005

What would it take to get Rossi in a Ferrari F1 car? How about 80 million Euros…

Speedracer: Here’s a new twist on the ever persistent Rossi-to-Ferrari rumours. At least he has a super license now…And at 80 million euros he’s a fraction of the cost of one Herr Schumacher…

Courtesy www.cyclenews.com

Valentino Rossi is headed to Formula One in 2007 after his one-year contract with Yamaha expires at the end of 2006.

That’s the conclusion drawn from published interviews with key Ferrari personnel at last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

Ross Brawn, Ferrari’s technical director, told the Associated Press that the Gauloises Yamaha rider could test as often as once a month beginning this winter. Rossi has already tested the Ferrari three times at the company’s test track in Fiorano.

"He is already as quick as a F-1 driver in the slow corners," Brawn told the AP on Friday.
Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo told Reuters that Rossi’s signing would be with the intent to win, not to capitalize on his immense popularity in Italy and much of Europe.

"He is not obliged to race in F1,” di Montezemolo said. “If he decides to, it is because he decides he is ready to win. He knows that he must do some tests and a champion like him goes into Formula One if he chooses to do so, if he feels he is going there to win. Neither he nor we have a pistol to our heads. If something comes of it, it will above all be his decision. If Ferrari and Rossi come together, it will be to win the world championship and not to put on a show that we do not need," di Montezemolo told Reuters.

The last motorcycle world champion to jump to Ferrari was Britain’s John Surtees. Surtees won seven world championships before capturing the 1964 F-1 crown for Ferrari.

La Repubblica, an Italian daily newspaper, last week published an unsourced report that Rossi will be offered a three-year contract worth 80 million Euros, nearly $100 million.

Kimi Raikkonen, McLaren’s current F-1 driver, would be his teammate, the paper wrote.

McCullough dominates round 1

From CMRC Racing

AUBURN HILLS RACEWAY, ON -- The Fox Fall Hi Point Series Fall Classic kicked off the fall season with a huge turnout at Auburn Hills Raceway this past weekend.

ATV Pro action was led by James Banks, Greg Gee and Ryan Nixon in front of the large crowd that jammed Auburn Hills for the Labour Day Classic. Moto 1 went to Gee, who then suffered problems in moto 2. Gee ended moto 2 in sixth and third overall. Banks used his experience to earn overall day honours with 2-1 results. Nixon took second overall with a impressive 3-2.

Pro Am overall went to Rob Mc Cullough, who lit up the Auburn track all day aboard his Sturgess Suzuki. Not only did he nail down the Pro Am win but followed it up with wins in +40 and Vet Master. Second went to Two Wheel Motorsports-backed Josh Snider. Snider had a strong day, taking a moto 1 win over Mc Cullough. Younger brother Aaron was equally strong, netting a third overall in the large Pro Am field.

Other weekend notables: Mission Cycle's Alex Kavanagh took top honours in 125cc Junior action; Kassie Boone was in top form going 1-1 in Ladies action, beating WCK's Kim Emery; Alex Bunyan outdueled Tyler Summers in ATV Sportsman. For complete results see www.cmrcracing.com.

The series moves to Walton Raceway for The Vet Eastern National on Saturday Sept.10 and Sept.11. For more information contact 905-542-5607 ext 1 or 416-997-5607. For directions visit www.waltontranscan.ca

Wednesday, September 7, 2005

New models slated for Toronto show

From the Toronto Motorcycle Show

TORONTO, ON -- Excitement is building as the major manufacturers prepare to launch new models at the Toronto Motorcycle Show. More than 125 exhibitors will meet more than 35,000 visitors when the Show returns to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Dec. 2-4.

The Toronto Motorcycle Show is the only event in Ontario where the major manufacturers set up their major corporate displays to introduce and showcase hundreds of new 2006 models to the motorcycling public. All the major manufacturers participate, including Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, Buell, BMW, Triumph, Ducati, Victory, KTM, Vespa and Aprilia. These manufacturers, major retailers and distributors of motorcycles and ATVs will feature every conceivable product and service.

Harley-Davidson and Yamaha have made the first of many expected new product announcements in advance of the Toronto Motorcycle Show.

There will be six new models with a host of styling and engineering updates highlighting a diverse line of American V-Twin motorcycles from Harley-Davidson. Leading the way is the Dyna family of performance custom motorcycles, which have been completely re-engineered for 2006 and incorporate a new six-speed Cruise Drive transmission and two new models. There’s the minimalist FXDBI Street Bob and a limited production FXDI 35th Anniversary Super Glide. New models also join the Softail, Touring and VRSC families.

Yamaha will exhibit the 2006 Star Series Stratoliner and Roadliner with an all-new 1900cc, fuel injected, aluminum chassis. With smooth lines, classic styling and a meaty engine, the two liners are sure to be hot sellers for riders looking for a little extra on their bike. The new off-road lineup features the aluminum framed YZ and WR four-strokes and special 50th anniversary models that are sure to have longtime Yamaha fans feeling nostalgic. When it comes to sport ATVs, there is a new Raptor 700 and Wolverine 450. A camouflage Grizzly is new on the multi-purpose ATV side.

Parts Canada sponsors Arenacross series

From CMRC Racing

STOUFFVILLE, ON -- Future West is proud to announce Thor and Parts Canada as the official title sponsor of the 2005 CMRC Canadian Arenacross Championships.

Parts Canada is a national distributor of aftermarket parts and accessories for the Canadian powersports industry. With Parts Canada's distribution centres located in Calgary and London, it has the ability to offer next day delivery from coast to coast and is the proud exclusive distributor for some of the most recognizable product names in the industry, such as HJC, Z1R, Icon, Alpinestars, Thor, Kuryakyn, Drag Specialties, Vance & Hines, Hindle, Yoshimura, Moose, DP Brakes and Motorex.

"The addition of Thor Parts Canada as title sponsor to our series truly shows the tremendous support Future West has received in our efforts to showcase the best Canadian motocross riders in the biggest marketplaces and best indoor venues across Canada. We are truly blessed by Parts Canada's dedication to supporting Canadian motorsports and look forward to a long relationship," said Jamie Hellam of Future West.

Round 1 of the series is set for the newly renovated Ricoh Coliseum at Toronto's Exhibition Place grounds Oct. 7-8. Tickets are now on sale through Ticket Master Canada on 416-872-5000 or on www.ticketmaster.ca.

Tuesday, September 6, 2005

World Championship officials selected

From the Canadian Motorcycle Association

HAMILTON, ON -- The CMA has appointed the following persons as officials at the upcoming FIM World Championship events for national teams.

International Six Days Enduro: Jury Delegate - Dave Armstrong; Team Manager - Jan Van Dijk

Trial des Nations: Jury Delegate - Dan Fargo; Team Manager - Jean Bancroft

Motocross of Nations: July Delegate - Marilynn Bastedo; Team Manager - Carl Bastedo

LeGros wins, sets course record

From MotoStep Racing

SUZUKA, JAPAN -- Canadian road racer Shane LeGros won the XF1 (Formula Extreme) division this past weekend at the Suzuka round of the West Japan Challenge Cup.

The combined grid consisting of JSB, XF1, XF2 and S-NK class machinery saw LeGros eclipse the existing class course record of two minutes, 17.910 seconds with a time of 2:16.821 in qualifying to take top spot among XF1 class machines.

Race action saw a rain shortened race with LeGros further lowering the course record with a personal best lap of 2:16.266 before a flash storm caused several riders to crash and the race to be red-flagged. The race had already passed 50 per cent distance and was therefore not restarted. LeGros was a comfortable 44 seconds ahead of the next fastest XF1 competitor at the time of the red-flag to win the XF1 class.

The course record was the second for LeGros as he is also the current series lap record holder in the XF1 class on Suzuka’s west half course.

MotoStep Racing would like to than its many partners for their support: Striker Exhausts, Agras components, Hyod Leathers, Elka Suspension, Gp Suspension, Nutec oils, Dunlop, Vesrah, KDC.

Sunday, September 4, 2005

Martin is champion

From Professional Motorsports Productions

SHANNONVILLE, ON Pascal Picotte enjoyed a perfect day but it wasn’t enough to prevent Francis Martin from claiming his second Parts Canada Superbike Championship at Shannonville Motorsport Park Sunday.

Picotte led the final round of the 2005 season from start to finish on his Picotte Performance Yamaha YZF-R1, but with a third place result on his Snobgirls / Laval Moto Suzuki GSX-R1000 Rock Forest, QC’s Martin was able to snatch the title by five points, 315-310.

“It’s easy to make mistakes when you have that much pressure on you,” said Martin, who started the day with a 20-point lead on Picotte. “I must have made about 10 mistakes before I was able to settle down and relax.”

The destination of the championship trophy, the Canada Cup was in doubt until the closing stages of the 14-lap race around Shannonville’s 4.0km (2.5-mile) ‘Long Track.’

Martin started the last lap running fourth behind fellow Suzuki riders Clint McBain and Kevin Lacombe, a result which would have left him and Picotte tied on points with 310. Picotte would have won the title on a tiebreaker with three race victories this season to Martin’s one.

But McBain went wide in the run between turns 5 and 6, allowing his Team Suzuki / Blackfoot Suzuki teammate Lacombe and Martin through. Lacombe finished second on his Suzuki GSX-R1000, 2.630 secs. behind Picotte, with Martin third and McBain fourth.

“I just wanted to pull a gap at the start and control the pace,” said Granby, QC’s Picotte after scoring his 16th career national Superbike win. “I just can’t believe it. I came back from an injury at the start of the year and we worked really hard.”

Calgary rider McBain took third in the final Parts Canada Superbike standings with 289 points. Lacombe just missed snatching fourth. The Granby, QC racer settled for fifth with 276 points, three fewer than Brantford, ON’s Jordan Szoke.

Szoke placed fifth in Sunday’s race on the Fast Company Honda CBR1000RR, just ahead of the Diablo Performance Honda CBR1000RR of Maple Ridge, BC’s Steve Crevier. The pair ran in close company throughout the race.

In other action at Shannonville, Picotte took his first Hindle Exhaust Pro 600 Sport Bike victory of the year on his Yamaha YZF-R6 after passing the Honda CBR600RR of Crevier on the final lap. Crevier had already clinched the title at the previous round at Atlantic Motorsport Park. McBain completed the podium on his Suzuki GSX-R600.

Mark Douglas of Warkworth, ON won the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW Amateur 600 Sport Bike Championship with a fifth place finish Sunday aboard his Yamaha YZF-R6. His closest rival for the title, James Collins of Woodstock, ON, scored the race win on his Yamaha but still came up two points short of Douglas in the final series standings.

Darren James of North Vancouver finished third in the Canadian Thunder feature at Shannonville on his Buell to clinch the 2005 series title. Bill Card of Wellesley, ON won his third race of the year on a Buell and finished second in the final standings.

Fifteen-year-old Karl Daigle of Roxton Pond, QC locked up the Suzuki SV650 National Cup crown with a second place finish in the final round. Dundas, ON’s Ross Millson scored the race win.

Erick Beausejour of Val Senneville, QC wrapped up the HJC Pro Rookie of the Year Award at Shannonville’s final round. Montreal’s Diablo Performance, which oversaw the title winning efforts of Martin and Crevier, was named the Inside Motorcycles Team of the Year.

Saturday, September 3, 2005

Picotte tightens title fight

From Professional Motorsports Productions

SHANNONVILLE, ON -- The battle for the Parts Canada Superbike Championship got a little tighter at Shannonville Motorsport Park Saturday, as Pascal Picotte claimed pole position for Sunday’s race.

Riding the Picotte Performance Yamaha YZF-R1, the Granby, QC racer turned a lap of one minute, 42.905 seconds to win the MPM Array Pole Award and earn four points toward the national Superbike title. That moved him into second place in the standings with 258 points, just 20 behind leader Francis Martin of Rock Forest, QC. Martin picked up a point for qualifying fourth on his Snobgirls / Laval Moto Suzuki GSX-R1000 with a time of 1:44.290. That gives him 278 points.

Team Suzuki / Blackfoot Suzuki GSX-R1000 teammates Kevin Lacombe and Clint McBain will line-up side-by-side in the middle of the front row on Sunday’s grid. Lacombe, from Granby, QC qualified second at 1:43.732 on his Suzuki GSX-R1000 while Calgary’s McBain was third with a 1:44.109. McBain is now third in the Parts Canada Superbike standings with 257 points.

“I just wanted to put it on pole,” said Picotte, who came close to beating his own lap record from last year of 1:42.820. “I’m really going to put my head down tomorrow. Francis is my main competition. He’s strong. He won’t give up.”

A podium finish in Sunday’s 14-lap feature race would assure Martin of his second Canadian Superbike title. A race win is worth 50 points in the standings, with an extra two points going to the rider who leads the most laps.

Although he failed to earn any qualifying points on Saturday, Brantford, ON’s Jordan Szoke remains in the hunt for the Parts Canada Superbike title with 250 points. He qualified sixth at Shannonville with a lap of 1:44.693.

Lacombe also retains a mathematical shot at winning the title. He is fifth in the series standings with 234 points.

Szoke is joined on the second row of the race grid by Maple Ridge, BC’s Steve Crevier and Chardon, OH rider Tom Kipp. Crevier set the fifth fastest time of 1:44.386 on his Diablo Performance Honda CBR1000RR, but was officially eliminated from title contention.

In other action at Shannonville, Picotte was fastest qualifier for the Hindle Exhaust Pro 600 Sport Bike feature on Sunday with a time of 1:45.468 on his Yamaha YZF-R6. New series champion Crevier qualified second at 1:45.495 riding his Honda CBR600RR and Kars, ON’s Andrew Nelson took third on the grid with a 1:45.600 on the Nelson Racing Honda CBR600RR.

Bill Card of Wellesley, ON claimed pole position for Sunday’s Canadian Thunder race and claimed the $1,000 Brampton Chrysler Pole Award in a dramatic qualifying heat. The Buell rider traded the lead with the Ducati of Orangeville, ON’s Derek Vammus on the final lap before hanging on for the win. Series points leader Darren James of North Vancouver placed third on a Buell.

James Collins of Woodstock, ON closed the gap to championship leader Mark Douglas in qualifying for the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW Amateur 600 Sport Bike class. Collins put his Yamaha YZF-R6 on pole with a time of 1:50.517 while Warkworth, ON’s Douglas could only manage third at 1:51.821 on his similar machine.

Ross Millson of Dundas, ON earned the pole for Sunday’s Suzuki SV650 National Cup feature with a lap of 1:54.881.

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