Friday, April 28, 2006

Yamaha Riding Academy at June show

From the Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival

TORONTO, ON -- Highlighting Yamaha’s involvement at the upcoming Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival will be the Yamaha Riding Academy (YRA). Now in its third year, the YRA was developed to teach young beginners the basics of riding off-road motorcycles.

After receiving guidance from a Canadian Motorcycle Training Service instructor, youngsters can take a ride on a 50cc to a 125cc dirt bike. The ride is free, but participants must be between 6 and 12 years of age, proficient on a bicycle and a parent or guardian must be present.

The Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival will feature new products, accessories, aftermarket components, clothing and other industry-related products and services. There will be retailers for the whole range of products and services, ensuring visitors can actually make an on-site purchase. The major motorcycle and ATV manufacturers will offer visitors free demo rides.

Other special features include the Motorcycle Demo Ride Zone, the ATV Demo Ride Zone, the Pit Stop, the Suzuki Freestyle Motocross Team and the CMRC Dirt Track Race on Saturday.

The Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival
Markham Fair Grounds
10801 McCowan Road, Markham
Friday, June 16 . . . . Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 17 . . . . 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 18 . . . . 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Admission
Adults: $13
Juniors (Ages 6 to 15): $8
Children (under six years): Free when accompanied by an adult
Family Pass (two adults & two juniors): $29

Full information is available at: www.cimf.ca and www.xfest.ca.

Thursday, April 27, 2006

World coming to Parry Sound!

From World Enduro Canada

The North American swing of the Maxxis World Enduro Championship or WEC is now three months away. The World Enduro Championship will descend on Canadian and U.S. soil for the first time ever July 15-16 and July 22-23 with the full support of the FIM, the AMA, CMA and ABC Communications, the series promoter.

The Canadian event will take place first in Parry Sound, ON, a picturesque town two hours north of Toronto on the shores of Georgian Bay. The following weekend the WEC riders will land in Hancock, NY in the heart of the best fly fishing country East of the Mississippi for the sixth of the eight-race series.

The first race of the series was held in Swedish snow during the month of March with resounding success and a surprise winner in the Enduro1 (E1) class. Spanish KTM rider Ivan Cervantes showed his adaptability by laying down fast tracks in Ostersund. The second and third events of the series take place May 6-7 in Guimaraes, Portugal and the next weekend in Gernika, Spain. The WEC teams and riders are anticipating good weather and rugged conditions for both enduros on the Iberian Pennisula.

What may be considered to be the most competitive WEC class is the middleweight Enduro 2 or E2 class where current World Champion Samuli Aro stamped his mark of authority in March in Sweden. This outcome was expected as the Finnish KTM rider is accustomed to riding in winter conditions. His main rival and countryman, Mika Ahola slotted into second place aboard his Italian-based HM Honda team CRF ahead of former Grand Prix motocross rider Johnny Aubert who recently signed on with the UFO Yamaha team.

There were no surprises in Ostersund in the Enduro 3 or E3 class which saw Isle of Mann rider David Knight continue his last year’s dominance adapting quickly to the varying snow conditions and winning his class over Finn Marko Tarkalla and Swedish rider Bjorne Carlsson.

The two North American events are welcome additions to the WEC series which is now what most insiders consider to be geographically a true World Championship. Notable homegrown U.S. riders who are slated to enter are Destry Abbott, Jimmy Lewis, Wally Palmer and Matt Stavish. Potential Canadian wild card riders include Guy Giroux, Guy Perrett, Kelly Graffunder, Barry Rempel, Clarke Peters, Dave Neumeister, Patrick Beaule, Alain Lachappelle and Klade Glasgow.

As wild card riders both Americans and Canadians will have to wait until all the seeded WEC riders decide to enter or not before knowing for certain whether they have one of the 120 spots in the events, but it looks promising fro a great number of North Americans.

Other off-road stars who have expressed interest in the two-day North American WEC events are current AMA GNCC champion Juha Salminen, and former World Champions Paul Edmondson and Shane Watts who are both U.S.–based this season.

The entry deadline is May 15 for the Georgian Bay Country Canadian Grand Prix and May 22 for the Moose US Grand Prix. Visit www.worldendurocanada.com and www.usgpenduro.com for details on how to enter. U.S. riders should contact the AMA to obtain the necessary rider release letter and appropriate FIM license for the Canadian event.

Picotte recovering from crash

From cdnsuperbike.com

Two-time Canadian champion Pascal Picotte is still recovering in hospital in Alabama after injuries he sustained at the second/third round of AMA Superbike competition at Barber Motorsport Park on Sunday.

The Picotte Performance Yamaha rider was one of the fastest bikes on the track for Sunday morning's 600 Supersport class practice session on an almost dry circuit before hitting a wet spot on the track and crashing his YZF-R6.

Picotte's injuries include a broken big toe on his left (shifter) foot and several cracked vertebrae in his back, along with unspecified injuries to both knees. Until talking with his own doctor once back in Canada, Picotte won't comment on his recovery time or if he will be able to ride at the Parts Canada Superbike Championship season opener May 21.

Picotte was expected to be released from hospital on Tuesday.

Premier expected for Ride

From BCCOM

VANCOUVER, BC -- The BC Coalition of Motorcyclists has announced that Premier Gordon Campbell will attend the 17th Annual MLA Ride on Thursday, May 4.

The MLA Ride is a motorcycle ride to the Legislature Buildings in Victoria, where riders arrive at noon to take the MLAs and their staff for a ride on their lunch hour, so that they can experience the thrill of motorcycling
firsthand.

This ride enables BCCOM members to discuss issues concerning motorcycling in BC with their MLA and is also the big kick off to help promote May as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

VP Fuels joins WMA

From VP Racing Fuels Inc.

SAN ANTONIO, TX -- VP Racing Fuels, Inc. has been named "Official Racing Fuel" of the 2006 AMA/WMA National Championship, as well as “Official Racing Fuel” of the Z1R Helmets Women’s Motocross Association (WMA) Cup.

“We're excited about our sponsorship with WMA,” said Bruce Hendel, VP’s global sales manager. “VP has long supported women’s participation in motocross. In fact, Cycle Ranch, a motocross track owned and operated here in Texas by VP’s founder, Steve Burns, hosted the USA Team Motocross/WMA Cup and the Pro-Am Open/Pro WMA Cup just this past fall and is scheduled to host it again this coming November.”

“We are very pleased to have VP Racing as a sponsor of the Hitachi AMA/WMA National Motocross Championship and the Z1R Helmets WMA Cup,” said Miki Keller, WMA’s CEO. “VP has such a strong heritage in racing, we are fortunate to have them help facilitate the growth of our series. All racers (male and female) can appreciate the advantage of using VP Fuel.”

WMA competitors can obtain information about VP’s wide selection of motorcycle racing fuels by contacting any of VP’s regional warehouses across the U.S., each of which is listed on the VP website at vpracingfuels.com.

For more information on the WMA visit womensmxassociation.com.

Final lap for Diablo

From Diablo Performance Racing

MONTREAL, QC -- Diablo Performance Racing, Canada's most successful motorcycle road racing team in 2005, will cease operations.

After winning the Canadian Superbike number one plate with Francis Martin on Suzuki, the Canadian 600 Sport Bike number one plate with Steve Crevier on Honda and being named "Team of the Year" in the 2005 Parts Canada Superbike Championship, Diablo Racing will not field any professional riders in the 2006 season.

Despite having completed its most successful season to date, with a track record of constantly contributing to the sport of motorcycle racing in Canada, the team was unable to secure any significant support from the industry manufacturers.

"I am not the one pulling the plug, it's the circumstances that are forcing us out of racing," explained team owner and former amateur racer Richard Italia.

In its five years of existence, Diablo Racing's involvement in Canada benefited a large number of racers. The team not only fielded the largest privateer effort that Canada has ever seen, but it also contributed at the grassroots level of Canadian racing. As the main sponsor of the Diablo Can-Am 125 GP Challenge and the Diablo Suzuki SV Cup, the team not only assisted many professional and amateur racers but also helped develop highly qualified technicians and engineers. Beyond simply putting bikes on the track, Diablo was also actively involved in the purchase of an air fence system, which has undoubtedly protected many Canadian racers over the years.

The Diablo Performance Racing team would like to thank all of the sponsors, riders and personnel who have helped contribute to its success. Most importantly, the team would like to thank all of the fans who have supported it throughout the last five seasons.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Canadian Duc comes second

From Ducati USA

CUPERTINO, CA -- The grand finale of the Ducati Monster Challenge concluded last weekend at round 2 of the AMA Superbike series, which was held at Barber Motorsports Park. The dozen winners of the regional Monster Challenge events squared off for this finale, with the winner being awarded the title of "Coolest Monster in North America," along with a brand new 2006 Monster S2R 1000 motorcycle.

Sean Kelii of Sacramento, CA emerged victorious after the brutal scrutiny of a panel of motorcycle industry judges, including legendary motojournalist Alan Cathcart, Speed Channel's Greg White and Barber Museum chief motorcycle restorer Brian Slark. The judges cast their votes based on the performance, workmanship, creativity and sound of each Monster.

Kelii was crowned the owner of the “Coolest Monster in North America” for his 1999 Monster 900, which he rides regularly and has highly modified, but still maintains the look of the Monster. Sean eliminated as much weight as possible from the bike and has a host of modifications including a carbon fiber tank, carbon wheels, piston kit and a lightened flywheel.

"Actually, I think I'll try to keep the racing heritage alive and give the bike to my dad so he can experience the enjoyment I got from building a mean Monster," Kelii said. "He supported me for so many years and this is a chance to give back to him. He's a real enthusiast but he needs an air cooled Ducati."

The second place finisher, Peter Hattle of Montreal, wins a spectacular trip to the US MotoGP held at legendary Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Hattle had a highly modified 1997 Monster 900. Rounding out the podium was 18-year old Daniela Dunne from Santa Barbara, CA, who performed much of her own work on the retro inspired 1997 Monster 750.

Huard info updated

From CMRC Racing

STOUFFVILLE, ON -- The account number for the trust for injured motocross racer Andre Huard has changed.

Please use the following information:

Account Name: Andre Huard Trust
AccountBank: Any CIBC
Account number 06-93537

More information is available at www.andrehuard.com.

Monday, April 24, 2006

XM for Harley riders

From XM Canada

TORONTO, ON -- XM Canada has announced a multi-year distribution agreement with Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The XM Canada service is currently available for Harley-Davidson 2006 models as a dealer-installed aftermarket option.

Under the new distribution agreement, select models will offer the XM Canada service pre-installed and include three months of promotional 100-channel XM Canada premium service.

"Harley-Davidson riders expect the best in quality and innovative technology packaged into a sleek, cutting-edge design, and that is exactly what they will get with XM," said Stewart Lyons, XM Canada's executive vice president. "XM Canada is thrilled to make our first non-automotive distribution agreement with the legendary Harley-Davidson and we are excited by the opportunity to enhance the riding experience for Harley-Davidson owners with the addition of the best onboard entertainment option available."

Trial des Nations teams set

From the Canadian Motorcycle Association

HAMILTON, ON -- The CMA has announced the members of the 2006 Trial des Nations Men’s Team. The event will take place in Breal/Montfort, France Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

The riders are Sean Bird of Port Coquitlam, BC; Maxime Gobeil of St-Gedeon, QC; Andrew Young of Welland, ON; and Matthew Zajac of Mississauga, ON.

The Women’s Team will comprise veteran Trial des Nations riders Christy and Kerry Williams of Port Moody, BC. One position is still to be filled.

Pro support from CMA

From the Canadian Motorcycle Association

HAMILTON, ON -- All riders who participate in the eight-round Pro National Arenacross Series and the two Quebec rounds of the Expert National Outdoor Championships will receive a refund of their entry fees at the conclusion of the National outdoor Series.

In addition, CMA will provide travel assistance to riders who participate in the Agassiz Expert National round, to attend one or both Quebec rounds.

Details will be included in the entry form mailing scheduled for the week of April 24.

Friday, April 21, 2006

Dates announced for Westcoast show

From BCCOM

VANCOUVER, BC -- The 2007 Westcoast Custom Motorcycle Show will be held April 14-15 at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford, BC.

This show is open to any and all types of motorcycles, so if you have an amazing Metric, Vintage, British, Drag Bike, or Scooter, etc. you are encouraged to bring it out.

To see pictures and a list of winners from the 2006 show check out www.westcoastcustom.ca.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

Hamblin wins fierce battle

From CMRC Racing

MIDHURST, ON -- Close to 500 entries tore up the RJ Motosport Park in Midhurst, ON last weekend. It was a perfect day for racing.

Two Wheel Motosport arrived on Sunday with some heavy hitters aboard Suzukis. Team Rockstar’s Sean Hamblin and OTSFF/Suzuki’s Ryan Lockhart from Nova Scotia arrived ready to lock horns with Machine Racing’s Kyle Keast and Ryan Gauld in the Pro / Am class.

In moto 1 Hamblin stormed to the lead and quickly gapped the field to take an unchallenged win. Yamaha's Gauld came across the line in second and continued his great start to the 2006 season. Working hard to get his outdoor legs back under him was third place Lochart, who spent the winter in the U.S. Supercross series. Keast sampled the RJ soil a few times and charged back to finish sixth.

In moto 2 Gauld jumped to the lead with Hamblin, Lockhart and hard-charging Keast in fourth. By lap 4 the four riders were within one second of each other. Gauld was first to drop off with a flat tire, handing the lead to Hamblin. Keast soon stormed by Lockhart and began chasing the Two Wheel-backed Hamblin. Keast and Hamblin gapped the field until a few laps from the end. In the back section of the track Hamblin clipped a rock and went down, handing the moto win to Keast.

Hamblin (1-2) took the overall, Keast was second (6-1) and Lockhart third (3-3).

In round 2 of the ATV Provincial Championships Honda's James Banks (2-1) took the overall in front of Yamaha's Greg Gee (1-2) and Keith Bokla (4-3).

Other notables included Suzuki's Cory Brooks, who was the big winner in 250 Intermediate with a perfect 1-1. The 250cc Junior was won by Andy Burke with a 2-1 and Brandon Phinney swept the Supermini and 80cc 12-16 classes with a perfect 1-1-1-1.

The great day did have a sad note. Junior rider Andre Huard suffered a serious back injury (see related post). Huard is currently in Hamilton Hospital. A trust fund has been set up to help him and his family with some of the costs they are trying to manage. All of our thoughts are with Andre and his family during this difficult time.

CIBC Branch
Account Name: In Trust for Andre Huard
Bank: CIBC
Account number 06752/72-71530

Next weekend's CMRC-sanctioned racing in Southwester Ontario moves to Grand Bend Motor Speedway in Grand Bend, April 23.

For a complete listing of results from RJ Motosport, please visit www.cmrcracing.com.

Huard seriously injured

From CMRC Racing

STOUFFVILLE, ON -- Junior motocross rider Andre Huard was critically injured last weekend while competing in his first +25 moto at RJ Motosport.

Huard currently has compression fractures in his spine, some spinal cord damage and is suffering mid chest-down paralysis.

Huard, who is 30 years old and lives in Kitchener, is married and needs all our support to get though this very serious injury. A fund is being set up and a donation account and a list of immediate family needs is being compiled. Extensive home modifications will be needed to make the entire family home wheelchair accessible.

If you or anyone you know may be able to assist the Huards in any way please contact Brett@cmrcracing.com immediately.

Account Name: Trust for Andre Huard
Bank: CIBC
Account number 06752/72/-71530

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

Zox signs two riders

From Motovan Corporation

Royal Distributing Pro Xtreme rider Iain Hayden and MX Mechanics riders Ryan Gauld will both be sporting the Zox Momentum R helmet for the 2006 season.

Both riders will be competing in this year's CMRC, which is sponsored by Motovan.com.

For more information on Zox helmets visit www.zoxhelmets.com.

Ride to Remember ready to roll

From WhistleStop Productions Inc.

BLOOMFIELD, ON -- The Hallowell Fire Fighters Association has announced a jam-packed event line up for the upcoming annual Ride to Remember weekend. This popular fundraising event for Camp Trillium has to-date raised over $70,000 and continues to celebrate all things on wheels.

This year the Ride to Remember will be held at the Picton Fair Grounds on the weekend of May 27-28. Presented by Toyota Truck, the Ride to Remember will boast everything from new motorcycle demo rides to vintage classic motorcycle displays. There will also be custom collector automobiles and plenty of motorcycle related activities and vendors. This year marks the return of the National Factory Demo Rides with Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW inviting licensed motorcycle riders to sample their new 2006 motorcycle lineups on the scenic roads around Prince Edward County.

On Saturday evening, Classic Hits 95.5 and Kawasaki Canada will present a night of classic rock at the Picton Arena. “Here for a good time” will be musical headliners, Canada’s very own TROOPER. Special guests opening for Canada’s ultimate party band will be local favourites, Swamp College. General admission tickets for this licensed “all ages” event are only $20.

This year’s Ride to Remember host motorcycle club, The Red Knights will hold a prize-filled poker run on Saturday morning followed by a motorcycle parade down Picton’s Main Street. Also on Saturday morning Canadian Tire will present the Picton Vintage Motorcycle Show hosted by the Quinte Section of the Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Group.

All weekend long, “In the Dirt” segment host Clinton Smout from TSN’s Motorcycle Experience TV show will be on site teaching kids aged 7 to 12 how to ride in the Canadian Motorcycle Training Services Dirt Bike School.

For more information call 613-393-5357 or visit www.ridetoremember.ca. This year we remember the founder of Shannonville Motorsport Park, John Nelson.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

Motopark lowers the volume

From Motopark

CHATSWORTH, ON -- Motopark has implemented new sound limits for off road motorcycles. The limits will be in effect for any sanctioning body holding events at Motopark as well as attendees of its Motocross Academy, summer camps, practice riders and users of its various tracks and trails.

Motopark will conduct sound tests this summer and effective with the start of the 2007 season will limit noise levels to 96 db. This is the guideline established by the FIM (2006 level is 98 db). The guidelines for testing and levels can be found at www.fim.ch under Motocross Rules and Regulations.

Motopark CEO Carl Bastedo commented that Motopark was taking this position re decibel levels as a pro-active measure designed to help create a more positive public response to off road riding areas throughout North America. He would like to acknowledge the work of Justin Moore of Ignition Racing in Ajax, ON and Barry Heatherington of SJG Fourwinds Motocross Park located near Port Perry, ON, who have done extensive testing on Ignition Racing's soon to be released “dB DAWG” muffler plug, which will help Motopark and other off road riding parks attain reduced sound levels.

Monday, April 17, 2006

Szoke tests in Florida

From Waznie Racing Inc.

BRANTFORD, ON -- Jordan Szoke continues his return to Kawasaki on Monday and Tuesday in Jennings, FL at the Jennings GP motorcycle-only race facility, testing the Parts Canada Superbike Championship new spec Pirelli tire the competitors will use in the upcoming season.

This will be Szoke’s first ride aboard the new Kawasaki ZX-10R Superbike and the ZX-6R Sport Bike ride he will compete on this year in the Parts Canada Superbike Championship and Hindle 600 Sport Bike Championship.

Szoke and the Canadian Kawasaki team will stay south and compete in next weekend’s AMA Superbike Championship round at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, AL.

A new face has been developed for Szoke’s official website, www.waznie.com. This site will post event-daily ‘Jordan’ news flashes from all the motorcycle activities he participates in.

Zox signs Lacombe

From Motovan Corporation

Zox has announced that an agreement has been reached with Canadian Superbike rider Kevin Lacombe.

The 23-year-old Granby, QC native is currently riding with Picotte Yamaha Racing and will be sporting a Zox Spectra R helmet.

For more information on Zox helmets visit www.zoxhelmets.com.

Supermoto opens in Trois-Rivieres

From CMRC Quebec

REPENTIGNY, QC -- The CMRC Quebec-sanctioned Canadian National Supermoto series kicks off on Saturday, June 3 in Trois-Rivières, QC. Over 200 riders are scheduled to show up for the season opener.

A schedule has been put together this year by promoter Buddy Ford, who will be working closely with Steve Beattie and Ted Baker (Nasmoto).

For Supermoto events in Quebec for 2006, all bikes have to be equipped with TEFLON OR NYLON sliders properly fastened to foot pegs, handlebars and both axle bolts, and catch cans are mandatory at every event in Quebec and Ontario.

Classes for 2006 include: SMX Open Supermoto (Pro/Expert only), SM1 Open Semi-Pro Supermoto (Expert/Amateur NO AMA PRO RIDERS, NASMOTO Championship Qualifier Class), SM2 250 Semi-Pro Supermoto (Expert/Amateur, NO AMA PRO RIDERS, NASMOTO Championship Qualifier Class), Open Amateur Supermoto (Amateurs only, NASMOTO Championship Qualifier Class), Novice & Beginner Open Lightweight, Vet + 35 Open, Mini Moto 85cc up to 198cc 4-stroke, + Pit Bike, ATV Pro-Am Supermoto (Expert or Amateur rider), Monobike Asphalte (Tentative class, pavement only).

The 2006 CMRC National / Provincial Supermotard schedule is as follows:

May 20, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, Provincial
June 3, Trois Rivières, QC, National / Provincial
June 11, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, Provincial
July 9, Hershey Centre, ON, National
July 23, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, Provincial
July 29, Trois-Rivières, Centre-ville, National / Provincial
Aug. 6, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, National / Provincial
Aug. 13, Sarnia, ON, National
Aug. 20, Charlesbourg, QC, National / Provincial
TBA, Markham, ON, National
Sept. 24, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, Provincial
Oct. 8, Mécaglisse, Notre-Dame de la Merci, Endurance race

Strong field expected for opener

From CMRC Quebec

REPENTIGNY, QC -- The 2006 summer season is coming up fast with the CMRC Quebec-sanctioned, Canadian National Dirt Track season opener scheduled for Saturday, May 6 at the Trois-Rivières Hippodrome.

Race promoter, Buddy Ford, has been promoting this event, held on the beautiful half-mile pea gravel horse track, for the past 20 years. Past Canadian champs Steve Beattie, Chris Evans and Dominic Beaulac, who will be riding for Carl Patrick in the U.S. this year, will all attend the season opener. Talks have also been held with Jarad Mees, Charlie Italia, Jess Roeder and Kenny Coolbeth to hit the event.

A full amateur program is also run during the day. Trophy classes include 50cc 4 to 9yrs, 65cc 5-11yrs, 85cc 7-15yrs, Youth 10-16yrs, Junior 450, Junior Open, Vet +35, ATV Junior Open; money classes are Intermediate 450, Intermediate Open, Pro 450, Pro Open, ATV Pro-Am 450, ATV Pro-Am Open, Speedway.

The complete 2006 CMRC Harley-Davidson Dirt Track Series is as follows:

May 6 Trois-Rivières, QC, National / Provincial
June 3 Leamington, ON, National
June 17 St-Marcel, QC, Provincial
June 17 Markham, ON, National
July 15 St-Marcel, QC, Provincial
July 22 Leamington, ON, National
July 23 Wheatley, ON, National
Aug. 5 St-Marcel, QC, Provincial
Aug. 12 Sarnia, ON, National
Aug. 19 St-Marcel, QC, Provincial
Sept. 9 St-Marcel, QC, National / Provincial
Sept. 10 St-Amable, QC, National / Provincial
Oct. 7 Petrolia, ON, National

KTM and Stoneridge join forces

From KTM Canada

ST-BRUNO, QC -- KTM Canada has announced a partnership with STONERIDGE, the ALDO Group’s urban footwear brand. For the second year in a row, the ALDO Group has signed on as the main sponsor of the KTM racing team in Canada.

“In term of image and values, KTM’s association with STONERIDGE is a natural fit,” said Andy White, KTM Canada national race manager.

STONERIDGE specializes in high quality fashion footwear and accessories and carries various high-end brands such as PUMA, Diesel and Converse. With 16 locations across Canada, STONERIDGE brings customers a wide variety of the latest styles in fashion footwear.

As part of its sponsorship, STONERIDGE is offering a contingency program with up to $41,000 available to KTM riders who are involved in motocross, offroad or supermoto racing. To be eligible for the 2006 STONERIDGE / KTM Contingency Program, a rider must compete in CMRC National Motocross, CMA National Enduro, FMSQ / CMA / PNWMA Hare Scrambles (Masters Class) or CMRC National Supermoto in the Pro Unlimited Class; display the official STONERIDGE sticker on their KTM orange front fender for the duration of the 2006 racing season; and race a 2005 or 2006 year KTM motorcycle for the duration of the 2006 racing season.

To be eligible for the cash bonus, contingency winners will have to buy a pair of STONERIDGE or ALDO shoes at one of the numerous STONERIDGE or ALDO retail stores in Canada and fax the purchase receipt to KTM Canada. For store locations, click on www.aldoshoes.com.

Unique AJS debuts

From Todd Copan

VANCOUVER, BC -- It’s the only one in the world. A unique attraction debuts at this year’s Annual Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show n’ Shine: a 1936 500cc AJS V-4 motorcycle re-created by Vancouver’s Dan Smith.

With over 30,000 sq. ft. of display space, it’s the biggest motorcycle swap meet in the Northwest. The Annual Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show n’ Shine in Tsawwassen, BC takes place on Sunday, April 23 at the South Delta Recreation Centre. Doors open at 10a.m.

Now marking 21 years in existence, the Swap Meet will feature parts for classic and vintage British, American, European and Japanese bikes. Also featured are club displays, memorabilia and complete bikes for sale.

This year’s AJS-Matchless themed display features Smith’s unique 1936 AJS V-4, built from the ground up using only photocopies of period pictures. The re-creation is the only example of this model in existence. All AJS and Matchless owners are invited to display their bikes in the Show ‘N Shine, and all other classic and vintage motorcycles are welcome too.

South Delta Recreation Center is at the junction of 56th Street and Highway 17 in Delta, BC close to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Highway 99. Highway 99 connects with Interstate 5 at the US border in Blaine, WA. The center is about 30 minutes south of Vancouver and about 30 minutes north of the US border. Admission is $6 for adults. Children 12 and under are free. Check our webpage for updates www.classicbikeswapmeet.com.

Thursday, April 13, 2006

KTM gets Royal treatment

From Royal Distributing

GUELPH, ON -- Royal Distributing, in conjunction with KTM Canada has formed the Royal Distributing Pro Xtreme Motocross Team. The team will compete nationally in the CMRC aboard KTM motorcycles and ride out of the RoyalDistributing.com hauler.

Contending for the MX2 West title will be Micheal Sleeter, from Escondido, CA. Sleeter, who turned Pro in 2001, is a KTM factory test rider and helped develop the new 250SXF. This past winter he rode KTMs as a privateer in the AMA Supercross Lites, made finals and posted excellent results against well-funded factory opposition.

Contending for the MX2 East title will be Iain Hayden, from Espanola, ON. Hayden is fresh off a dominant season aboard the Royal Distributing Ski-Doos, winning the CSRA National titles in both Pro Stock and Pro Open snowcross. He will start the CMRC season riding the western national rounds aboard a 450SXF KTM.

Contending for the MX1 National title will be Marco Dube, from Montreal. Dube will ride the 450SXF nationally. He is a two-time Canadian champion, five-time Canadian Arenacross champion and the 2002 U.S. Open Four-Stroke champion.

Royal Distributing will use the team to display its various brands with a unique rider gear package. Hayden will ride with Answer gear, Sleeter with Shift gear and Dube with FXR gear.

Royal Distributing also sponsors the Royal Distributing holeshot award, which awards $200 for each Pro moto in the national rounds in MX1 and MX2 to the holeshot winner. Royal Distributing will also remain a major sponsor of the KTM/Stoneridge/Royal factory KTM national team.

Friday, April 7, 2006

Extreme Team rides in June

From The Prostate Extreme Team

OAKVILLE, ON -- The Prostate Cancer Extreme Team has announced the second event for its 2006 “Tour of Hope” fundraising campaign. On Saturday, June 24 the Prostate Extreme Team will be looking for motorcycle enthusiasts from across Ontario to come out and join fellow riders in the Flamborough area to help raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer Research.

This poker ride will begin at the Flamboro Valley Campground, and travel the scenic backroads of the majestic Flamborough region. You can visit their website at www.flamborovalley.com.

A minimum event pledge of $50 is required along with a $25 registration fee. A BBQ lunch will be provided after the ride, along with an extensive prize table and a great opportunity to meet other motorcycle enthusiasts, all riding for a great cause. The fee for your first poker hand is $20, additional poker hands will be $10 each.

The Prostate Cancer Extreme Team is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising both awareness and funds for the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada. Prostate Cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men, and will affect one in seven men in the course of their lifetime. If left untreated Prostate Cancer can be life threatening, however with early detection, the 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 Cancer Tour of Hope consists of the “Snow Ride of Hope," “ Bike Ride of Hope” and “ATV Ride of Hope”.

For more information on the Prostate Extreme Team's upcoming events, or to download pledge and registration forms please visit www.prostateextremeteam.com.

Wednesday, April 5, 2006

IMX nails holeshot

From AirLand Entertainment

PARIS, ON – AirLand Entertainment, Inc. has signed Inside Moto-X (IMX) magazine as the Holeshot sponsor for the entire 2006 CMA National Arenacross Series.

“This sponsorship allows IMX magazine to serve as the presenting sponsor of the Holeshot award for the complete CMA National Arenacross Series,” said David Weber, general manager of IMX. “We see the sponsorship as a means to associate our magazine with the top Arenacross event in Canada.”

In addition to sponsorship of the Holeshot award, IMX will work with the series to bring together the event program. The program will feature rider profiles, background on sponsors, venue information, track details and the Arenacross girls.

“We are excited to have the support of IMX magazine for the first CMA National Arenacross Series,” said Joe Baird, promoter of the series. “From local grassroots racing to Canadians who compete on the international stage, IMX is the leading magazine covering Canadian amateur and professional racing. We believe this is a natural fit.”

IMX is centered on the sport of motocross in Canada and developed for the purpose of promoting and rejoicing in Canadian competition, the community, and industry that comprise the foundation of the sport.

For information regarding the 2006 CMA National Arenacross Series including sponsorship opportunities, venues, tickets and pro purse payouts, go to http://www.axcanada.com.

Government gets a ride

From the BC Coalition of Motorcyclists

VANCOUVER, BC -- The 17th Annual MLA Ride is on Thursday, May 4. The MLA Ride is a motorcycle ride to the Legislature Buildings in Victoria where riders arrive at noon to take the MLAs and their staff for a ride on their lunch hour, so that they can experience the thrill of motorcycling firsthand.

This ride enables our members to discuss issues concerning motorcycling in BC with their MLA and is also the big kick-off to help promote May as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

For information please call the B.C. Coalition of Motorcyclists at (604) 580-0111 or check out www.bccom-bc.com.

Tuesday, April 4, 2006

Markham gets Extreme

From Karl Eichner

TORONTO, ON -- The premier edition of the Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival will take place from June 16-18 at the Markham Fair Grounds.

The Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival will be the most complete motorcycle, ATV and action sport indoor / outdoor event ever held in Canada. The Festival will feature new products, accessories, after-market components, clothing and other industry-related products and services. There will be retailers for the whole range of products and services, ensuring visitors can actually make an on-site purchase.

Special feature areas abound, including the ATV Demo Ride Zone, the Motorcycle Demo Ride Zone, the Pit Stop, the Xtreme Freestyle Blade / Skate / BMX Zone and the Xtreme Sports Theatre. There will be live bands and junior programs for both ATV and motorcycles where professionals will conduct safe riding seminars for the young beginner.

Admission will be $13 for adults, $8 for juniors (ages 6 to 15) and $29 for a family pass (two adults and two juniors). Children under six can get in free if accompanied by an adult.

The Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival is produced by Newmarket-based ShowPlus Ventures. The Festivals are endorsed and sponsored by the Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council (MMIC), the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC), Suzuki, BMW, Honda, Yamaha and Arctic Cat.

Full information on the Canadian Motorcycle & Extreme Sports Festival is available at: www.cimf.ca and www.xfest.ca.

Monday, April 3, 2006

Motorcycle Hall announces inductees

From the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

TORONTO, ON -- The Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum (CMHM), sponsored by the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW (IMS), has announced 12 individuals and organizations to be inducted at the first annual Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, to be held May 6 in Mississauga, ON.

“We have a broad cross-section of Canadian motorcycling achievement in this group," said Bar Hodgson, chairman of the CMHM. “We had many nominations from across the country and all types of motorcycling activity ­- competitors, business people, and organizations. Paring them down to just 12 was a challenge. We now have an inventory of nominees, with more coming in all the time, which will see the Hall of Fame grow steadily in future years.”

The 2006 Hall of Fame inductees are:
*Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA) - Based in Hamilton, ON. Celebrating 60 years as Canada’s National sanctioning body.
*Jim Bentley - Mississauga, ON. Founder of the Ride For Sight
*Trevor Deeley - Vancouver, BC. Competitor, importer and contributor to motorcycling in Canada.
*Don Munroe - Halifax, NS. Multiple Canadian road racing champion.
*Ray Gref - Montreal, QC. Competitor, dealer and contributor to motorcycling in Canada.
*John Nelson - Belleville, ON. Competitor, dealer and co-founder of Shannonville Motorsports Park.
*Welland County Motorcycle Club - Welland, ON. Celebrating 60 years of racing and contributing to motorcycling in Ontario.
*Stan Bradbury - St. Catharines, ON. Competitor, credited as being ‘The Father of Speedway Racing in Canada."
*Gerry Marshall - Pointe Claire, QC. Competitor, official and a contributor to motorcycling in Canada.
*Blair Sharpless - Whitby, ON. Competitor, multi-championship winning off-road racer.
*Walt Healy - Calgary. Competitor, dealer and contributor to motorcycling in Canada.
*Lang Hindle - Uxbridge, ON. competitor, road racing champion, internationally recognized motorcycle
aftermarket manufacturer.

The First Annual Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, sponsored by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC), will be held at 6 p.m. on May 6 at Roma’s Banquet Hall & Convention Centre, 5980 Shawson Drive in Mississauga. Tickets are offered for a $95 donation and are available online at www.supershowevents.com/museum or by calling 519-657-2029. Dress is smart casual.

Duff and Jervis for Thunder

From BMW Motorrad Canada

WHITBY, ON -- BMW Motorrad Canada has announced that Oliver Jervis and Chris Duff will campaign the new BMW R1200S in the 2006 Canadian Thunder Racing Series. The factory effort, named the Schenker – BMW Financial Services BMW R1200S Team will feature the new R1200S boxer twin which boasts an additional 24 horsepower over its predecessor along with a weight reduction of 13 kg before race modificiations.

“The Canadian Thunder Racing Series is the perfect environment to showcase the new R1200S and further highlight the new generation of BMW motorcycles which all embrace sporting performance and industry-leading innovation," stated Norm Wells, director, BMW Motorrad Canada.

Jervis and Duff bring serious credentials to the Schenker-BMW Financial Services BMW R1200S Team. Jervis has secured podium finishes in either WMRRA or WMRC Superbike categories from 2002 through 2004, while placing first overall in SuperMoto in 2004 and first overall in both Superbike and 600 Supersport in 2005. He also “cut his BMW teeth” in 2004 riding an R1100S to 10th place at the BMW Boxer Cup in Valencia, Spain.

Duff also brings an extensive racing portfolio to the position, with numerous podium finishes in Canada and the U.S. in 125GP, 250GP, Formula 3, Supermono and Pro 600 series. A former Canadian 125cc Grand Prix champion, Duff has not only figured largely in establishing Canadian Thunder as a national category within the overall Parts Canada Superbike Championship, but also finished fourth overall in the 2005 Canadian Thunder Series and was the top finishing BMW racer at every race.

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