Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2005-2007 police and escort motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson is recalling certain FLHP, FLHPI, FLHTP, FLHTPI, FLHPE and FLHPEI police and escort motorcycles equipped with anti-lock brake systems (ABS). Inconsistencies in the routing of the brake lines can cause abrasion of the brake lines and hoses. In some cases, this condition has caused brake fluid leaks.
5947 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Corser on Superbike pole
From Yamaha Racing
PHILLIP ISLAND, AUSTRALIA -- Troy Corser (Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team) set the fastest lap on the first day at Phillip Island Friday, posting a 1:32.366 lap time on his 17th out of 21 laps.
Despite suffering bruising and a pain from two crashes in last week's opening SBK round, Noriyuki Haga battled to 13th, finding his current suspension settings less than ideal for the ever-changing Phillip Island track surface.
The relatively cool temperatures of final qualifying were nonetheless a great improvement on the first unofficial qualifying conditions, after morning rains had arrived to welcome the first day of action and the track surface took some time to give any great level of grip.
"We have quite a good feeling from the bike, but I feel we can get it even better than it is," Corser said. "The test we had was held in very different conditions and the chassis setting we had for the test doesn't seem to be working now. The grip just seems to be different on the ground."
Qualifying Results
1. Troy Corser, Yamaha, AUS, 1:32.336
2. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, AUS, 1:32.374
3. Michel Fabrizio, Ducati, ITA, 1:32.570
4. Max Neukirchner, Suzuki, GER, 1:32.808
5. Jakub Smrz, Ducati, CZE, 1:32.827
6. Max Biaggi, Ducati, ITA, 1:32.827
7. Ruben Xaus, Ducati, ESP, 1:32.827
8. Regis Laconi, Kawasaki, FRA, 1:33.188
9. Fonsi Nieto, Suzuki, ESP, 1:33.269
10. Carlos Checa, Honda, ESP, 1:33.283
11. Russel Holland, Honda, AUS, 1:33.340
12. Karl Muggeridge, Honda, AUS, 1:33.489
13. Noriyuki Haga, Yamaha, JPN, 1:33.588
14. Gregorio Lavilla, Honda, ESP, 1:33.718
15. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, JPN, 1:33.995
16. David Checa, Yamaha, ESP, 1:34.050
PHILLIP ISLAND, AUSTRALIA -- Troy Corser (Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team) set the fastest lap on the first day at Phillip Island Friday, posting a 1:32.366 lap time on his 17th out of 21 laps.
Despite suffering bruising and a pain from two crashes in last week's opening SBK round, Noriyuki Haga battled to 13th, finding his current suspension settings less than ideal for the ever-changing Phillip Island track surface.
The relatively cool temperatures of final qualifying were nonetheless a great improvement on the first unofficial qualifying conditions, after morning rains had arrived to welcome the first day of action and the track surface took some time to give any great level of grip.
"We have quite a good feeling from the bike, but I feel we can get it even better than it is," Corser said. "The test we had was held in very different conditions and the chassis setting we had for the test doesn't seem to be working now. The grip just seems to be different on the ground."
Qualifying Results
1. Troy Corser, Yamaha, AUS, 1:32.336
2. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, AUS, 1:32.374
3. Michel Fabrizio, Ducati, ITA, 1:32.570
4. Max Neukirchner, Suzuki, GER, 1:32.808
5. Jakub Smrz, Ducati, CZE, 1:32.827
6. Max Biaggi, Ducati, ITA, 1:32.827
7. Ruben Xaus, Ducati, ESP, 1:32.827
8. Regis Laconi, Kawasaki, FRA, 1:33.188
9. Fonsi Nieto, Suzuki, ESP, 1:33.269
10. Carlos Checa, Honda, ESP, 1:33.283
11. Russel Holland, Honda, AUS, 1:33.340
12. Karl Muggeridge, Honda, AUS, 1:33.489
13. Noriyuki Haga, Yamaha, JPN, 1:33.588
14. Gregorio Lavilla, Honda, ESP, 1:33.718
15. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, JPN, 1:33.995
16. David Checa, Yamaha, ESP, 1:34.050
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Last legs
The ride from the Drakenberg mountains to Durban, where I was to hook up with the BMW folks for the F 800 GS new model launch, was short and uneventful other than a slight misreading of the GPS which resulted in a detour through the city of Ladysmith. This added close to an hour to a trip that should have been only 2.5 hrs. Still, the rest was highway and easy sailing.
The closer I got to the coast, the warmer it became. In the mountains it had been in the mid-to-low 20C, and it rapidly shot up to the low 30s. So long as I was moving, that was fine, but when stopped in this heat it felt like I was wearing a sauna suit. Off came the jacket, which left me only in my mesh armour.
As I pulled into the Zimbali Lodge, the site of the BMW press launch, I did the stupidest thing. I dithered at a roundabout, and tipped the GS over onto its side. No damage done, but it goes to show how easily this can happen. Get that bike only a few degrees off vertical -- especially when fully loaded -- and it'll crush you earthward without the slightest hesitation. Of course, this had to happen with an audience. I just had to hope that the buses at each corner of the roundabout were devoid of journalists and BMW brass.
The Zimbali Lodge is total Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous fodder. My room was stunning, the pool was a lucious, salt-water infinity type, and the staff were beyond gracious.
I'd rather not go into the details of the bike launch, given that our mag hasn't gone to press yet. Hope you all understand. I will say that the roads were a mixture of 50/50 tar and gravel, and I had a blast riding them.
The second day of the press launch had worried me intensely. All of the other journos from Canada had flown Toronto-Frankfurt-Johannesburg-Durban, but I had chosen to land in Joburg, pick up the GS1200, ride for a week, show up for the press launch in Durban and then race back to Joburg to catch the plane with the other journos.
The problem here was that we were scheduled to ride 'til noon, at which point BMW would shuttle us to the airport in Durban where we'd fly back to Joburg. The plane would leave from Joburg at 8pm. The total distance from Zimbali Lodge to Joburg would be ~650km. That's one heck of a distance to cover in 6hrs, as I'd want to be at the airport by 6pm at the latest.
The BMW brass were rather impressed with my solo trip, and I'd had several Germans come up to me and ask if I was the Canadian who was riding the GS across Africa. So with these brownie points under my belt, I felt safe asking for special dispensation to cut out a little early.
So on day 2, I headed back to the lodge at 10am, after riding for a couple of hours, loaded up the GS and high-tailed it for Joburg. This was another ass-crunching ride, as I stopped only about three times, with two breaks being 5 minutes, and one for 20 minutes. The ride was all freeway -- 4-lane blacktop, with gob-smacking views of rolling landscapes and rugged hills.
As I'd said, I had been concerned about the timing and logistics of this final leg of my journey for a while, but now that I was doing it, there was a feeling of rightness to the experience. What better way to cap off a thrilling adventure than with a long, peaceful lope through the birthplace of humankind.
I rolled into the parking lot at Joburg airport at 4:50pm. Tons of time to spare. Albert was there to meet me, and I handed off the filthy GS to him with a sheepish smile. I know that he expected me to get the thing dirty, and the mud, grime and bugs told the whole story.
I got through the check-in procedure and made my way to the lounge. The other journos began to trickle in about a half-hour after me. I had beaten the plane!
As I boarded the plane and took my seat, I feeling of relief washed over me. I had done it.
Parker's Kawasaki framed
From John Parker
Former Canadian flat track number one plate holder John Parker is very busy in the JPR (John Parker Racing) shop getting ready to install the Kawasaki KX 450F motor in a brand new J&M frame.
“It’s not very pretty right now. Mike Owens ships the frame to us unfinished. We have some modifications to make to suit ourselves and then we’ll get it plated. It’ll be a real showpiece when we’re finished with it,” Parker said.
Parker has had sponsorship through Inglis Cycle Center in London for the past two years but going into his third year on the green bikes he has had his budget increased from Canadian Kawasaki Motors so that he might create a purpose-built dirt tracker.
“We’ve been campaigning the stock framed bike for the last two seasons and done well with it, (Parker finished second to Donald Taylor in Canada last year) but for this year Kawasaki has upped the ante and we’re going to up the pace,” he said.
Claude Gagne, National Sales Manager of CKM, a former flat tracker and keen fan gave the news to Parker in early December and John immediately placed an order for a new frame.
“I’ve kept track of John before this but since he’s on one of our bikes I’ve been paying special attention to his progress,” said Gagne. “We’re very happy to have John riding for us. He’s not only a great racer but he’s also an excellent development source for our bikes. He’s also good for business in that he’s an excellent spokesperson for Kawasaki and for the sport of dirt track. A lot of young riders look up to him and hopefully we’ll have more Kawasakis in Canadian dirt track as a result.”
Look for a full feature on Parker in the April issue of Inside Motorcycles.
Former Canadian flat track number one plate holder John Parker is very busy in the JPR (John Parker Racing) shop getting ready to install the Kawasaki KX 450F motor in a brand new J&M frame.
“It’s not very pretty right now. Mike Owens ships the frame to us unfinished. We have some modifications to make to suit ourselves and then we’ll get it plated. It’ll be a real showpiece when we’re finished with it,” Parker said.
Parker has had sponsorship through Inglis Cycle Center in London for the past two years but going into his third year on the green bikes he has had his budget increased from Canadian Kawasaki Motors so that he might create a purpose-built dirt tracker.
“We’ve been campaigning the stock framed bike for the last two seasons and done well with it, (Parker finished second to Donald Taylor in Canada last year) but for this year Kawasaki has upped the ante and we’re going to up the pace,” he said.
Claude Gagne, National Sales Manager of CKM, a former flat tracker and keen fan gave the news to Parker in early December and John immediately placed an order for a new frame.
“I’ve kept track of John before this but since he’s on one of our bikes I’ve been paying special attention to his progress,” said Gagne. “We’re very happy to have John riding for us. He’s not only a great racer but he’s also an excellent development source for our bikes. He’s also good for business in that he’s an excellent spokesperson for Kawasaki and for the sport of dirt track. A lot of young riders look up to him and hopefully we’ll have more Kawasakis in Canadian dirt track as a result.”
Look for a full feature on Parker in the April issue of Inside Motorcycles.
Leading Edge Kawasaki announces 2008 CMRC MX2 team
From Leading Edge
Kamloops
Says Leading Edge Kawasaki owner, Jason Hughes, "With the new coast to coast format of the MX2 class this year, I felt I either needed to step up my program and contest the entire series or not race at all. Luckily,
For 2008, the team will consist of Teddy Maier, Brock Hoyer and Nick Evennou, all aboard KX250F's with Pro Circuit engines and RG3 suspension.
Williams Lake, BC's Brock Hoyer is the loan returning member to the team. In 2007, Hoyer finished 8th overall in the MX2 West series and also contested the Nex-Trax Arenacross series and finished 3rd in both the Lites and Open classes.
Fort Dodge
The latest addition to the Leading Edge team is
A huge thanks to all of the team's sponsors that have allowed Leading Edge Kawasaki to compete for 2008: Leading Edge Motorsports, Kawasaki Canada, Parts Canada, Thor, Monster Energy, Rock Construction and Mining, Kyocera/Gold Business Machines, Pirelli, Pro Circuit, RG3 Suspension, Kamloops Embroidery, Alpinestars, Fountain Tire, Print Werx, James Western Star and Excel Wheels.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Second warm up round in France
By Jeff Morgan with files from KTM, Yamaha Racing and Suzuki Racing
Valence, France – The second warm-up round before the World Motocross Championships took place this past weekend in Valence, France. After several weeks of testing, teams use this as an opportunity to see how close they are with their set-ups in full race conditions.
Josh Coppins was on the top step of the podium in the MX1 class and he felt positive about the day. “It was an enjoyable race because the weather was good for once, and the track offered near Grand Prix conditions, which meant that I could really go for it,” said the YZ450FM rider.
Steve Ramon fought hard for third position (on a track that he does not particularly enjoy). “I had a good day here even though it's not my favourite track,” said Ramon after the third difficult moto. “It’s always one of the first races of the year and I sometimes find it difficult on this track. The last race was really good and I had a little battle with Josh after fighting my way through the pack.”
The MX2 class saw a KTM 1-2 finish with Tyla Rattray and Tommy Searle respectively. “I felt very good in all three races,” Rattray said. “It was a good preparation for the season. I was faster than in Mantova so my speed is improving and I am really going to be ready and in good form when the season starts.”
Tommy Searle returned from practicing in the US for the race, he also does not enjoy the track, but took it in stride. “It is very stony but I took it as a practice,” he said. “I did not have a good start in the first race. The second was quite good but then I had a crash and the third race of the day was my best.”
Valence, France – The second warm-up round before the World Motocross Championships took place this past weekend in Valence, France. After several weeks of testing, teams use this as an opportunity to see how close they are with their set-ups in full race conditions.
Josh Coppins was on the top step of the podium in the MX1 class and he felt positive about the day. “It was an enjoyable race because the weather was good for once, and the track offered near Grand Prix conditions, which meant that I could really go for it,” said the YZ450FM rider.
Steve Ramon fought hard for third position (on a track that he does not particularly enjoy). “I had a good day here even though it's not my favourite track,” said Ramon after the third difficult moto. “It’s always one of the first races of the year and I sometimes find it difficult on this track. The last race was really good and I had a little battle with Josh after fighting my way through the pack.”
The MX2 class saw a KTM 1-2 finish with Tyla Rattray and Tommy Searle respectively. “I felt very good in all three races,” Rattray said. “It was a good preparation for the season. I was faster than in Mantova so my speed is improving and I am really going to be ready and in good form when the season starts.”
Tommy Searle returned from practicing in the US for the race, he also does not enjoy the track, but took it in stride. “It is very stony but I took it as a practice,” he said. “I did not have a good start in the first race. The second was quite good but then I had a crash and the third race of the day was my best.”
Honda to Stop Making Motorcycles in the USA
Honda has been making motorcycles in the USA since 1979. Today Honda announced that they will stop manufacturing motorcycles here to concentrate on automobile production.
Here's an excerpt from DaytonDailyNews.com:
"Honda of America Manufacturing Inc. announced today that it will discontinue production of motorcycles in spring 2009 as part of what the company calls 'a global strategy that will focus on its leader role in Honda's North American automobile operations.'"
Read more.
Here's another story from detnews.com.
Here's what Honda says on its Web site.
Definitely the end of an era.
What do you think? Leave your comments below.
Here's an excerpt from DaytonDailyNews.com:
"Honda of America Manufacturing Inc. announced today that it will discontinue production of motorcycles in spring 2009 as part of what the company calls 'a global strategy that will focus on its leader role in Honda's North American automobile operations.'"
Read more.
Here's another story from detnews.com.
Here's what Honda says on its Web site.
Definitely the end of an era.
What do you think? Leave your comments below.
Budgen claims NZ Superbike crown
From Suzuki Racing
Australian rider Robbie Bugden has secured back-to-back New Zealand Superbike titles with one round still remaining in the championship. Victory aboard his Suzuki GSX-R1000 at round 4 at Manfield last weekend means Budgen does not even need to turn up to the final round at Pukekohe to be crowned 2008 Champion.
"The pressure is off now and I'll just go to Pukekohe and enjoy the day," said Bugden, who is unbeaten in the championship. "I'll still be going hard at Pukekohe. Every time the red light goes out I go hard and don't think of anything but winning."
Bugden's teammate Andrew Stroud currently sits second on the Championship points table.
Suzuki is also on track for a 1-2 Championship finish in the 600cc Sports Production class with Dennis Charlett and James Smith currently leading the standings piloting their GSX-R600s.
The final round will be held at Pukekohe on March 8-9.
Australian rider Robbie Bugden has secured back-to-back New Zealand Superbike titles with one round still remaining in the championship. Victory aboard his Suzuki GSX-R1000 at round 4 at Manfield last weekend means Budgen does not even need to turn up to the final round at Pukekohe to be crowned 2008 Champion.
"The pressure is off now and I'll just go to Pukekohe and enjoy the day," said Bugden, who is unbeaten in the championship. "I'll still be going hard at Pukekohe. Every time the red light goes out I go hard and don't think of anything but winning."
Bugden's teammate Andrew Stroud currently sits second on the Championship points table.
Suzuki is also on track for a 1-2 Championship finish in the 600cc Sports Production class with Dennis Charlett and James Smith currently leading the standings piloting their GSX-R600s.
The final round will be held at Pukekohe on March 8-9.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Duhamel on Raceline Radio
By John Hopkins
STIRLING, ON -- Veteran Canadian motorcycle racer Miguel Duhamel will be a guest on the nationally syndicated Raceline Radio motorsports program this Sunday March 2.
The Montreal native will preview the upcoming Daytona Bike Week action, which will feature his bid for a sixth victory in the Daytona 200 next Saturday, March 8.
For broadcast times and information on stations carrying Raceline Radio go to http://www.raceline.ca/.
STIRLING, ON -- Veteran Canadian motorcycle racer Miguel Duhamel will be a guest on the nationally syndicated Raceline Radio motorsports program this Sunday March 2.
The Montreal native will preview the upcoming Daytona Bike Week action, which will feature his bid for a sixth victory in the Daytona 200 next Saturday, March 8.
For broadcast times and information on stations carrying Raceline Radio go to http://www.raceline.ca/.
Hall of Fame inductions in October
From the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame
TORONTO, ON -- The Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame 2008 Induction Banquet and Reunion, presented by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) will be held Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Renaissance Toronto Airport Hotel and Conference Centre, near Toronto's Pearson International Airport.
MCC is the title sponsor of the banquet and a founding patron of the Hall of Fame. MCC administers the foundation that is home to the Hall of Fame.
You have until April 30 to submit nominations for consideration for induction in 2008. Nominations are held on file for up to five years. A nomination made now will be considered for 2008, but may not be selected immediately.
Nominations stand a better chance of success if they are well supported with testimonials and evidence of achievements. The selection committee will not do the research.
MCC's sponsorship of the Hall of Fame Induction Banquet now enters its third year. In total, MCC has provided $75,000 in cash to support the launch of this important Canadian motorcycling event.
In addition, MCC now provides all administrative and operational support for the Hall of Fame and Museum operations.
TORONTO, ON -- The Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame 2008 Induction Banquet and Reunion, presented by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) will be held Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Renaissance Toronto Airport Hotel and Conference Centre, near Toronto's Pearson International Airport.
MCC is the title sponsor of the banquet and a founding patron of the Hall of Fame. MCC administers the foundation that is home to the Hall of Fame.
You have until April 30 to submit nominations for consideration for induction in 2008. Nominations are held on file for up to five years. A nomination made now will be considered for 2008, but may not be selected immediately.
Nominations stand a better chance of success if they are well supported with testimonials and evidence of achievements. The selection committee will not do the research.
MCC's sponsorship of the Hall of Fame Induction Banquet now enters its third year. In total, MCC has provided $75,000 in cash to support the launch of this important Canadian motorcycling event.
In addition, MCC now provides all administrative and operational support for the Hall of Fame and Museum operations.
From Future West
Another year for British Supercross series is once again done and dusted! The 2007/2008 Future West
In the Pro Lights class, CAS Honda’s Mike Brown broke out to an early lead riding the Honda CR250f for the first time in Supercross this year, preparing for the start of the outdoor season this weekend at
Brown jumped out to the early lead and never looked back with JSR and Facciotti in tow. Facciotti only need to finish behind JSR to claim his second British Supercross Championship title of his career. JSR would give it his all, ending the Lights on Brown’s back tire.
The Pro Open final was set for another
Beaton seized the opportunity and made the pass on veteran Brown. Once passed Brown, Beaton did not let up and claimed a sizeable victory over Brown for Yamaha
Monster Energy Supercross goes to RCA Dome for the final time
From Live Nation
Indiapolis, IN - The 17th and final Monster Energy® Supercross, a FIM World Championship, race at
Last week in front of 67,429 fans at
While leading, Reed crashed before the finish line on lap six and re-mounted in 11th place. Millsaps assumed the lead while last week’s winner, Kevin Windham, moved into second place on lap six but was unable to reel in Millsaps. Red Bull Honda’s Andrew Short, moved into third in the race and finished on the podium.
“I stuck it out, and put in 20 hard laps,” said Millsaps “My whole family is here, so I am pumped to do this in front of them. I was coming off a mess of injuries last year, and I am healthy now, so it makes a huge difference.”
Canard won the $1,000 Progressive Holeshot Award with KTM’s Ryan Sipes, in tow. Reigning Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ryan Villopoto, crashed in turn one along with Torco Fuels Honda’s Josh Grant. Both Villopoto and Grant were heavy favorites to win the main event.
“I do not know what to say,” said Canard after the race. “I am so excited, and I want to dedicate this win to my deceased father. I was very consistent tonight, and I do not want to get too excited about tonight’s win because this is a long season.”
The first AMA Supercross race at the RCA Dome was
Maier and McCabe win in Greensboro
From Live Nation
Teddy Maier said about his win, “I was hoping for a better start, but I just put my head down and I just wanted to do consistent laps & I felt good and want to thank my whole Team TiLube/MotoXXX crew.”
In the Lites class, Kurtis McCabe made it a Team TiLube/MotoXXX sweep as he took the top spot on the box. Shane Sewell ran well finishing 2nd and Kyle Smith took advantage of a fall by Dave Ginolfi to finish third.
Kurtis McCabe said, “Yeah it felt great, my bikes been getting great starts. I was a little winded; I’ve been off the bike for a month with pneumonia, but it s great to come back with a win.”
AMA Arenacross Class Results, (
Teddy Maier,
Tom Hofmaster, YAM
Jim Neese, SUZ
Keith Johnson, YAM
Josh Woods, SUZ
Shane Sewell, KAW
Codi Adams, YAM
Dave Ginolfi, KAW
Kurtis McCabe,
AMA Arenacross Class Lites Results (
Kurtis McCabe,
Shane Sewell, KAW
Kyle Smith, YAM
Chris Haack,
Ivo Steinbergs,
Taylor Futrell,
Codi Adams, YAM
Dave Ginolfi, KAW
Josh Woods, SUZ
Acceleration Racing to sponsor HardNox
From HardNox Racing
CALGARY, AB -- HardNox Racing has signed a sponsorship agreement with Acceleration Racing for Hotbodies Racing race bodywork.
Acceleration Racing is the new Canadian distributor of Hotbodies Racing race bodywork and will be supplying HardNox Racing with bodywork and windscreens for the 2008 racing season.
For more information go to http://www.accelerationracing.com/.
CALGARY, AB -- HardNox Racing has signed a sponsorship agreement with Acceleration Racing for Hotbodies Racing race bodywork.
Acceleration Racing is the new Canadian distributor of Hotbodies Racing race bodywork and will be supplying HardNox Racing with bodywork and windscreens for the 2008 racing season.
For more information go to http://www.accelerationracing.com/.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Bobbitt wins round two in Greensboro
From KTM
Greensboro, GA - Red Bull KTM Factory rider Russell Bobbitt won his first National Enduro of the season at Round 2 of the National Enduro Series.
Greensboro is the closest Georgia town to where Bobbitt was raised, and for that reason, is considered his hometown race. "I was excited to pull off a win in front of my hometown friends and family," reported Bobbitt.
The course was well-received by the riders this weekend. It was a nice course that was muddy in a few sections due to rain prior in the week but it held up well throughout the day's event. Of the six special tests Bobbitt was able to win four of them which helped him increase his overall lead.
Bobbitt's teammate and eight-time National Enduro Champion, Mike Lafferty, finished third for the week despite a nagging wrist injury from a practice day earlier in the week. "My wrist is not broken, but it is very sore. The pain made it hard to hang on in certain sections, but I am glad I was able to stay close enough to pick up third and stay in the points chase," commented Lafferty.
"I am extremely happy with both riders," stated Red Bull KTM Off-Road Team Manager Antti Kallonen. "I was proud of Bobbitt for riding strong throughout the entire race to take home the win. I am also impressed with Lafferty's determination today. I am glad he was able to finish on the podium while having to take it a bit easy due to his hand injury."
Bobbitt now holds the points lead, with Lafferty only 4 points behind him as they prepare for Round 3.
Results
1. Russell Bobbitt - KTM
2. Jason Raines – Yamaha
3. Mike Lafferty - KTM
4. Shane Watts - KTM
5. Brad Bakken - KTM
Greensboro, GA - Red Bull KTM Factory rider Russell Bobbitt won his first National Enduro of the season at Round 2 of the National Enduro Series.
Greensboro is the closest Georgia town to where Bobbitt was raised, and for that reason, is considered his hometown race. "I was excited to pull off a win in front of my hometown friends and family," reported Bobbitt.
The course was well-received by the riders this weekend. It was a nice course that was muddy in a few sections due to rain prior in the week but it held up well throughout the day's event. Of the six special tests Bobbitt was able to win four of them which helped him increase his overall lead.
Bobbitt's teammate and eight-time National Enduro Champion, Mike Lafferty, finished third for the week despite a nagging wrist injury from a practice day earlier in the week. "My wrist is not broken, but it is very sore. The pain made it hard to hang on in certain sections, but I am glad I was able to stay close enough to pick up third and stay in the points chase," commented Lafferty.
"I am extremely happy with both riders," stated Red Bull KTM Off-Road Team Manager Antti Kallonen. "I was proud of Bobbitt for riding strong throughout the entire race to take home the win. I am also impressed with Lafferty's determination today. I am glad he was able to finish on the podium while having to take it a bit easy due to his hand injury."
Bobbitt now holds the points lead, with Lafferty only 4 points behind him as they prepare for Round 3.
Results
1. Russell Bobbitt - KTM
2. Jason Raines – Yamaha
3. Mike Lafferty - KTM
4. Shane Watts - KTM
5. Brad Bakken - KTM
KTM riders in high spirits
From KTM Racing
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN -- KTM 250 riders wrapped up the official preseason testing session in Jerez last Thursday on the high note with Repsol-KTM rider Julian Simon in fifth, and the official factory riders Mika Kallio and Hiroshi Aoyama in a very close sixth and seventh position.
All three riders were consistently among the top performers in the three days of testing on the Spanish circuit and all agreed they could have gone even faster. Regrettably the final decisive run for good lap times was cut short when the last session was red-flagged after a crash 10 minutes from the end.
KTM's Technical Director Harald Bartol also expressed satisfaction after the tests.
"Our good results at this and our previous test in Valencia confirm the progress we've made in the development of our bike," he said. "We addressed the reliability problems of the past, and the engines are working so well now that we have healthy base from which we can fine-tune the bike and be competitive at every race.
"Another significant step was the new chassis that we introduced back in November, and which seems to give the riders the feel and the handling they wanted. The fact that all three of our riders are within the top group speaks for itself and boosts the confidence of us all."
In the 125 cc class, Raffaele de Rosa from Team Onde 2000 KTM was fastest of the seven-rider strong KTM line-up in this category, with official Red Bull KTM factory rider Randy Krummenacher still shaking off the winter break and lagging behind in 22nd position.
Young Spanish Repsol KTM rookie Marc Marquez ran into bad luck and fractured the radius and ulma of his right arm in a crash on the second day of testing.
Day Three Times
GP 250
1. Tom Luthi (CH) Aprilia 1:43.208; 2. Marco Simoncelli (I) Gilera 1:43.209 3. Alvaro Bautista (E) Aprilia 1:43.529; 4. Alex Debon (E) Aprilia 1:43.629; 5. Julian Simon (E) KTM 1:43.802; 6. Mika Kallio (SF) KTM 1:43.859; 7. Hiroshi Aoyama (J) KTM 1:43.869
GP 125
1. Bradley Smith (Aprilia) 1:47.820; 2. Sergio Gadea (Aprilia) 1:47.952; 3. Stefan Bradl (D) Aprilia 1:48.118 4. Raffaele De Rosa (I) KTM 1:48.183; 5. Mike di Meglio (F) Derbi 1:48.244
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN -- KTM 250 riders wrapped up the official preseason testing session in Jerez last Thursday on the high note with Repsol-KTM rider Julian Simon in fifth, and the official factory riders Mika Kallio and Hiroshi Aoyama in a very close sixth and seventh position.
All three riders were consistently among the top performers in the three days of testing on the Spanish circuit and all agreed they could have gone even faster. Regrettably the final decisive run for good lap times was cut short when the last session was red-flagged after a crash 10 minutes from the end.
KTM's Technical Director Harald Bartol also expressed satisfaction after the tests.
"Our good results at this and our previous test in Valencia confirm the progress we've made in the development of our bike," he said. "We addressed the reliability problems of the past, and the engines are working so well now that we have healthy base from which we can fine-tune the bike and be competitive at every race.
"Another significant step was the new chassis that we introduced back in November, and which seems to give the riders the feel and the handling they wanted. The fact that all three of our riders are within the top group speaks for itself and boosts the confidence of us all."
In the 125 cc class, Raffaele de Rosa from Team Onde 2000 KTM was fastest of the seven-rider strong KTM line-up in this category, with official Red Bull KTM factory rider Randy Krummenacher still shaking off the winter break and lagging behind in 22nd position.
Young Spanish Repsol KTM rookie Marc Marquez ran into bad luck and fractured the radius and ulma of his right arm in a crash on the second day of testing.
Day Three Times
GP 250
1. Tom Luthi (CH) Aprilia 1:43.208; 2. Marco Simoncelli (I) Gilera 1:43.209 3. Alvaro Bautista (E) Aprilia 1:43.529; 4. Alex Debon (E) Aprilia 1:43.629; 5. Julian Simon (E) KTM 1:43.802; 6. Mika Kallio (SF) KTM 1:43.859; 7. Hiroshi Aoyama (J) KTM 1:43.869
GP 125
1. Bradley Smith (Aprilia) 1:47.820; 2. Sergio Gadea (Aprilia) 1:47.952; 3. Stefan Bradl (D) Aprilia 1:48.118 4. Raffaele De Rosa (I) KTM 1:48.183; 5. Mike di Meglio (F) Derbi 1:48.244
Pegram to race on Pirellis
From Pirelli
ROME, GA -- Larry Pegram has signed a deal putting the Pegram Racing Ducati 848 on Pirelli Diablo slicks for his challenge for the 2008 AMA Formula Xtreme championship.
Pegram, an AMA Superbike race winner, former World Supersport racer and flat-track racer, said, “We did some pre-season testing at Jennings on a few different Pirelli compounds and nearly broke the track record on a dirty track. The whole team’s excited to get out racing and see how well we go against the competition. We're already faster than last year so we're looking forward to a great season.”
Last year's Daytona 200 winner Steve Rapp will defend his crown for Attack Kawasaki on the ZX-6R. Joining Rapp on the team is Welshman Chaz Davies. Each rider is to compete in Formula Xtreme and Supersport. In 2007 Rapp finished second overall in the FX championship on Pirelli tires, complementing that performance with fourth in the Supersport championship. Davies has already set the fastest laps on race tires at Daytona and Fontana testing in FX and Supersport.
After a year that included finishing on the podium of the Daytona 200, many more podiums and fourth-place in the Superstock championship, M4 EMGO Suzuki is returning for another season with Pirelli. Riders include Columbian Martin Cardenas racing in Supersport and Formula Xtreme, newly signed Blake Young competing in Supersport and Superstock, and Cory West, also new to the team, in Supersport. The M4 EMGO Suzuki riders will be competing on the GSX-R1000 and the all-new GSX-R600.
Also again on Pirelli tires is Roadracingworld.com Suzuki, with returning riders Chris Ulrich and Robertino Pietri, each competing in Superstock on their GSX-R1000s. These riders came on strong last season, capping off 2008 pre-season Daytona testing with Pietri setting the fastest lap overall on race tires for a Superstock bike. Joining the team for 2008 is Santiago Villa, also riding a GSX-R1000 in Superstock.
ROME, GA -- Larry Pegram has signed a deal putting the Pegram Racing Ducati 848 on Pirelli Diablo slicks for his challenge for the 2008 AMA Formula Xtreme championship.
Pegram, an AMA Superbike race winner, former World Supersport racer and flat-track racer, said, “We did some pre-season testing at Jennings on a few different Pirelli compounds and nearly broke the track record on a dirty track. The whole team’s excited to get out racing and see how well we go against the competition. We're already faster than last year so we're looking forward to a great season.”
Last year's Daytona 200 winner Steve Rapp will defend his crown for Attack Kawasaki on the ZX-6R. Joining Rapp on the team is Welshman Chaz Davies. Each rider is to compete in Formula Xtreme and Supersport. In 2007 Rapp finished second overall in the FX championship on Pirelli tires, complementing that performance with fourth in the Supersport championship. Davies has already set the fastest laps on race tires at Daytona and Fontana testing in FX and Supersport.
After a year that included finishing on the podium of the Daytona 200, many more podiums and fourth-place in the Superstock championship, M4 EMGO Suzuki is returning for another season with Pirelli. Riders include Columbian Martin Cardenas racing in Supersport and Formula Xtreme, newly signed Blake Young competing in Supersport and Superstock, and Cory West, also new to the team, in Supersport. The M4 EMGO Suzuki riders will be competing on the GSX-R1000 and the all-new GSX-R600.
Also again on Pirelli tires is Roadracingworld.com Suzuki, with returning riders Chris Ulrich and Robertino Pietri, each competing in Superstock on their GSX-R1000s. These riders came on strong last season, capping off 2008 pre-season Daytona testing with Pietri setting the fastest lap overall on race tires for a Superstock bike. Joining the team for 2008 is Santiago Villa, also riding a GSX-R1000 in Superstock.
First win for Nieto
By Colin Fraser
Fonsi Nieto earned his first career World Superbike victory in race two in Qatar Saturday, spoiling a brilliant debut Middle East weekend for the brand new Ducati 1098.
The Alstare Suzuki factory pilot held off a determined last lap challenge by fellow Spanish veteran Ruben Xaus on a Ducati. Xaus' teammate Max Biaggi was a close third on the sister privateer Sterilgarda Go Eleven 1098. Both Nieto and Biaggi were making their debut for new teams.
Factory Xerox Ducati team leader Troy Bayliss placed fourth in the second event in Doha. However the popular Australian made history earlier in the day with a spectacular victory in the opening race of the 2008 season. Bayliss charged from ninth, survived several off-track trips, then battled Biaggi for the win.
Success for Bayliss was a dream debut for the controversial 1200cc Ducati, and the first ever triumph for the famous Italian brand at the Losail Circuit.
“I didn’t make much of a start, and it took a while to move up,” explained Bayliss after the opener. “But I made a few mistakes, and had to push to get up with Biaggi. I expected the Yamahas to be there, and I was pretty comfortable with the pace to win.”
In the 600 Supersport race, Australian ace Broc Parkes made a dramatic, Daytona-style draft and pass on the run to the chequered flag, taking the win for Yamaha by inches over the Hondas of last lap leader Joan Lascorz of Spain and Craig Jones. The other new works R6 of Fabien Foret looked set for a clear victory, but ran out of fuel on the final tour.
The typically dominant Ten Kate Honda crew exited on lap 2, when Jonathan Rea fell and took out teammate Andrew Pitt. Neither CBR600RR rider was seriously injured.
Results (courtesy Alstare Suzuki)
Race 1
1. Troy Bayliss (Aus-Ducati), 2. Max Biaggi (I-Ducati), 3. Troy Corser (Aus-Yamaha ), 4. Ruben Xaus (E-Ducati), 5. Max Neukirchner (D-Suzuki), 6. Carlos Checa (E-Honda), 7. Fonsi Nieto (E-Suzuki), 8. Yukio Kagayama (J-Suzuki)
Race 2
1. Nieto, 2. Xaus, 3. Biaggi, 4. Bayliss, 5. Michel Fabrizio (I-Ducati), 6. Checa
Points
1. Bayliss 38, 2. Biaggi 36, 3. Nieto 34, 4. Xaus 33, 5. Corser 25, 6. Neukirchner 19
Fonsi Nieto earned his first career World Superbike victory in race two in Qatar Saturday, spoiling a brilliant debut Middle East weekend for the brand new Ducati 1098.
The Alstare Suzuki factory pilot held off a determined last lap challenge by fellow Spanish veteran Ruben Xaus on a Ducati. Xaus' teammate Max Biaggi was a close third on the sister privateer Sterilgarda Go Eleven 1098. Both Nieto and Biaggi were making their debut for new teams.
Factory Xerox Ducati team leader Troy Bayliss placed fourth in the second event in Doha. However the popular Australian made history earlier in the day with a spectacular victory in the opening race of the 2008 season. Bayliss charged from ninth, survived several off-track trips, then battled Biaggi for the win.
Success for Bayliss was a dream debut for the controversial 1200cc Ducati, and the first ever triumph for the famous Italian brand at the Losail Circuit.
“I didn’t make much of a start, and it took a while to move up,” explained Bayliss after the opener. “But I made a few mistakes, and had to push to get up with Biaggi. I expected the Yamahas to be there, and I was pretty comfortable with the pace to win.”
In the 600 Supersport race, Australian ace Broc Parkes made a dramatic, Daytona-style draft and pass on the run to the chequered flag, taking the win for Yamaha by inches over the Hondas of last lap leader Joan Lascorz of Spain and Craig Jones. The other new works R6 of Fabien Foret looked set for a clear victory, but ran out of fuel on the final tour.
The typically dominant Ten Kate Honda crew exited on lap 2, when Jonathan Rea fell and took out teammate Andrew Pitt. Neither CBR600RR rider was seriously injured.
Results (courtesy Alstare Suzuki)
Race 1
1. Troy Bayliss (Aus-Ducati), 2. Max Biaggi (I-Ducati), 3. Troy Corser (Aus-Yamaha ), 4. Ruben Xaus (E-Ducati), 5. Max Neukirchner (D-Suzuki), 6. Carlos Checa (E-Honda), 7. Fonsi Nieto (E-Suzuki), 8. Yukio Kagayama (J-Suzuki)
Race 2
1. Nieto, 2. Xaus, 3. Biaggi, 4. Bayliss, 5. Michel Fabrizio (I-Ducati), 6. Checa
Points
1. Bayliss 38, 2. Biaggi 36, 3. Nieto 34, 4. Xaus 33, 5. Corser 25, 6. Neukirchner 19
Millsaps takes first win at home, in Georgia
From Live Nation news
Atlanta, GA - Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps won his first Monster Energy® AMA Supercross, a FIM World Championship, race at the Georgia Dome in front of 67,429 fans. In the first professional Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career, Torco Fuels Honda’s Trey Cannard led all 15 laps of the main event en route to the victory.
Team San Manuel’s Chad Reed jumped out of the gate and won the $1,500 Progressive Holeshot Award with Millsaps and Team San Manuel’s Nathan Ramsey following in second and third respectively.
While leading, Reed crashed before the finish line on lap six and re-mounted in 11th place. Millsaps assumed the lead while last week’s winner, Kevin Windham, moved into second place on lap six but was unable to reel in Millsaps. Red Bull Honda’s Andrew Short moved into third in the race and finished on the podium.
“I don’t like to take a win like this, but a win is a win,” said Millsaps. “I had a lot of friends and family here tonight, so winning in front of them is huge, especially my first win in this class.”
Canard won the $1,000 Progressive Holeshot Award with KTM’s Ryan Sipes, in tow. Reigning Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ryan Villopoto crashed in turn one along with Torco Fuels Honda’s Josh Grant. Both Villopoto and Grant were heavy favorites to win the main event.
On lap six, Villopoto, while working his way through traffic, crashed once again and could not finish the race. On lap seven, KTM’s Martin Davalos passed Sipes for second place.
“I do not know what to say right now,” said Cannard. “I have waited my whole life for this, and to get the win means so much to me. “I had a great heat race and was ready for the main.” The
AMA Supercross Lites class race will air on SPEED Saturday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m.
Atlanta, GA - Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps won his first Monster Energy® AMA Supercross, a FIM World Championship, race at the Georgia Dome in front of 67,429 fans. In the first professional Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career, Torco Fuels Honda’s Trey Cannard led all 15 laps of the main event en route to the victory.
Team San Manuel’s Chad Reed jumped out of the gate and won the $1,500 Progressive Holeshot Award with Millsaps and Team San Manuel’s Nathan Ramsey following in second and third respectively.
While leading, Reed crashed before the finish line on lap six and re-mounted in 11th place. Millsaps assumed the lead while last week’s winner, Kevin Windham, moved into second place on lap six but was unable to reel in Millsaps. Red Bull Honda’s Andrew Short moved into third in the race and finished on the podium.
“I don’t like to take a win like this, but a win is a win,” said Millsaps. “I had a lot of friends and family here tonight, so winning in front of them is huge, especially my first win in this class.”
Canard won the $1,000 Progressive Holeshot Award with KTM’s Ryan Sipes, in tow. Reigning Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ryan Villopoto crashed in turn one along with Torco Fuels Honda’s Josh Grant. Both Villopoto and Grant were heavy favorites to win the main event.
On lap six, Villopoto, while working his way through traffic, crashed once again and could not finish the race. On lap seven, KTM’s Martin Davalos passed Sipes for second place.
“I do not know what to say right now,” said Cannard. “I have waited my whole life for this, and to get the win means so much to me. “I had a great heat race and was ready for the main.” The
AMA Supercross Lites class race will air on SPEED Saturday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Currumbin Rock Pool
I went for a short ride to Murwillumbah on Sunday via the Currumbin valley. My route included Tumbulgum, Nunderi and over to the coast for a change to take a look at what recent development has occurred in Cabarita, Hasting Point and Pottsville.After this I returned to Mooball and dropped in to the village of Burrinbar then over the range of the same name, and noticed one of the fixed speed
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Motorcycle Tattoos - Art or Ego?
I have a Motorcycle Tattoos Gallery that is quite popular. I make it a requirement that each person submitting a tattoo must be a motorcyclist and must state what bike they currently ride.
Now some think that tattoos are done impulsively without much thought. Others create whole galleries of tattoos on their bodies to reflect their own outlook on life or to characterize their experiences. Still others view tattoos as art -- motorcycle art.
What's your take? Leave your comments below.
Have you got a tattoo to place in our Motorcycle Tattoos Gallery? Send it in and see your art on our site.
Now some think that tattoos are done impulsively without much thought. Others create whole galleries of tattoos on their bodies to reflect their own outlook on life or to characterize their experiences. Still others view tattoos as art -- motorcycle art.
What's your take? Leave your comments below.
Have you got a tattoo to place in our Motorcycle Tattoos Gallery? Send it in and see your art on our site.
Ural Has Recalled 6 Models for Transmission Defect
Ural has issued a recall of certain 2007 Gear-Up, Patrol, Retro, Tourist, Tourist LX, and Wolf motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles built with a sidecar and equipped with Herzog transmission gear sets, the transmission main shaft is outside of acceptable tolerance due to incorrect manufacturing of transmission main shaft and specific retaining clips. The main shaft and retaining clips may be defective.
308 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles built with a sidecar and equipped with Herzog transmission gear sets, the transmission main shaft is outside of acceptable tolerance due to incorrect manufacturing of transmission main shaft and specific retaining clips. The main shaft and retaining clips may be defective.
308 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jim Finlayson
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Web site. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.
See Jim on his Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
See Jim on his Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Neukirchner on front row
From Alstare Suzuki
DOHA, QATAR -- Alstare Suzuki rider Max Neukirchner rode a superb Superpole and booked himself a place on the front row of the grid at Qatar today.
The young German had only been in the top 10 in regular qualifying, but he pulled out all the stops in the 16-rider shootout, ending up on the front row behind Superpole winner Troy Corser (Yamaha), Ruben Xaus (Ducati) and Max Biaggi (Ducati).
Suzuki Alstare riders Yukio Kagayama and Fonsi Nieto finished eighth and 11th respectively.
"I’m very happy with my Superpole lap and getting on the front row of the grid," Neukirchner said. "Today my bike worked very well on the Superpole lap and whenever I tried a really soft tire, but it didn’t work so well when I tried to do a long run. So now we will look at all the data and telemetry and see if we can adjust the bike so that it works as well in a race distance."
DOHA, QATAR -- Alstare Suzuki rider Max Neukirchner rode a superb Superpole and booked himself a place on the front row of the grid at Qatar today.
The young German had only been in the top 10 in regular qualifying, but he pulled out all the stops in the 16-rider shootout, ending up on the front row behind Superpole winner Troy Corser (Yamaha), Ruben Xaus (Ducati) and Max Biaggi (Ducati).
Suzuki Alstare riders Yukio Kagayama and Fonsi Nieto finished eighth and 11th respectively.
"I’m very happy with my Superpole lap and getting on the front row of the grid," Neukirchner said. "Today my bike worked very well on the Superpole lap and whenever I tried a really soft tire, but it didn’t work so well when I tried to do a long run. So now we will look at all the data and telemetry and see if we can adjust the bike so that it works as well in a race distance."
Corser takes Superpole
From Yamaha Racing
DOHA, QATAR -- Troy Corser continued his dominance in Losail qualifying to further his record Superpole winning tally today, posting a remarkable new track best of 1:58.053, nearly four tenths of a second faster than his Superpole record from '07, using a race tire on his Yamaha YZF-R1.
It was Corser's 41st career pole win in WSB racing, and it could have been a 1:57 lap but for a slight wobble in the middle of his high-speed chase around the 5.380km Losail circuit. Corser was fully 0.636 seconds ahead of his nearest challenger, Ruben Xaus, in the kind of competition that Corser has made his very own.
Noriyuki Haga shook off the effects of a big highside crash on day one to record the sixth fastest Superpole time, and earn a second row start. Haga feels confident in his race set-up, and was not worried to be off the front row, as he had qualified fourth fastest going into Superpole, and has good race pace.
The winds that plagued day one at Losail continued today, albeit at a reduced level, but final set-up adjustments may remain to be made in warm up on raceday morning. Tire choices will be vital at this most changeable of WSB circuits, and therefore the team members expended a lot of time and effort in trying to choose a suitable combination for raceday.
"I do like this track although the grip levels are not always that good," Corser said. "The bike is in balance even if I did have some sort of a tank-slapper halfway through the Superpole lap - mainly because I was pushing it so hard. I had chosen a soft race tire over the qualifying tire because it makes the bike easier to control."
Fabien Foret marked the first competitive appearance of the new Yamaha YZF-R6 in fine style by taking pole position in Supersport and a new track best lap time of 2:01.928.
Superpole Qualifying Results
1. Troy Corser Yamaha AUS 1:58.053
2. Ruben Xaus Ducati ESP 1:58.689
3. Max Biaggi Ducati ITA 1:58.767
4. Max Neukirchner Suzuki GER 1:58.964
5. Lorenzo Lanzi Ducati ITA 1:58.975
6. Noriyuki Haga Yamaha JPN 1:59.017
7. Troy Bayliss Ducati AUS 1:59.224
8. Yukio Kagayama Suzuki JPN 1:59.285
9. Carlos Checa Honda ESP 1:59.417
10. Michel Fabrizio Ducati ITA 1:59.450
11. Fonsi Nieto Suzuki ESP 1:59.921
12. Jakub Smrz Ducati CZE 1:59.984
13. Gregorio Lavilla Honda ESP 2:00.095
14. Kenan Sofuoglu Honda TUR 2:00.313
15. Roberto Rolfo Honda ITA 2:01.208
DOHA, QATAR -- Troy Corser continued his dominance in Losail qualifying to further his record Superpole winning tally today, posting a remarkable new track best of 1:58.053, nearly four tenths of a second faster than his Superpole record from '07, using a race tire on his Yamaha YZF-R1.
It was Corser's 41st career pole win in WSB racing, and it could have been a 1:57 lap but for a slight wobble in the middle of his high-speed chase around the 5.380km Losail circuit. Corser was fully 0.636 seconds ahead of his nearest challenger, Ruben Xaus, in the kind of competition that Corser has made his very own.
Noriyuki Haga shook off the effects of a big highside crash on day one to record the sixth fastest Superpole time, and earn a second row start. Haga feels confident in his race set-up, and was not worried to be off the front row, as he had qualified fourth fastest going into Superpole, and has good race pace.
The winds that plagued day one at Losail continued today, albeit at a reduced level, but final set-up adjustments may remain to be made in warm up on raceday morning. Tire choices will be vital at this most changeable of WSB circuits, and therefore the team members expended a lot of time and effort in trying to choose a suitable combination for raceday.
"I do like this track although the grip levels are not always that good," Corser said. "The bike is in balance even if I did have some sort of a tank-slapper halfway through the Superpole lap - mainly because I was pushing it so hard. I had chosen a soft race tire over the qualifying tire because it makes the bike easier to control."
Fabien Foret marked the first competitive appearance of the new Yamaha YZF-R6 in fine style by taking pole position in Supersport and a new track best lap time of 2:01.928.
Superpole Qualifying Results
1. Troy Corser Yamaha AUS 1:58.053
2. Ruben Xaus Ducati ESP 1:58.689
3. Max Biaggi Ducati ITA 1:58.767
4. Max Neukirchner Suzuki GER 1:58.964
5. Lorenzo Lanzi Ducati ITA 1:58.975
6. Noriyuki Haga Yamaha JPN 1:59.017
7. Troy Bayliss Ducati AUS 1:59.224
8. Yukio Kagayama Suzuki JPN 1:59.285
9. Carlos Checa Honda ESP 1:59.417
10. Michel Fabrizio Ducati ITA 1:59.450
11. Fonsi Nieto Suzuki ESP 1:59.921
12. Jakub Smrz Ducati CZE 1:59.984
13. Gregorio Lavilla Honda ESP 2:00.095
14. Kenan Sofuoglu Honda TUR 2:00.313
15. Roberto Rolfo Honda ITA 2:01.208
Rivals face off at Valence
From KTM Racing
Top riders in the KTM Red Bull MX factory team will have the chance to face off with some of their future GP rivals this weekend at Valence in France, one of the major pre-season events before the start of the World Championship series.
On the starting list are Max Nagl of Germany, the KTM factory rider in MX1 for 2008 and MX2 riders Tommy Searle, Tyla Rattray and Rui Goncalves. They travel to the circuit about 100km south of the city of Lyon, which offers a compact and hard, stony surface.
Weather reports indicate that this year the event may be dry. It is often run in rain typical for this time of year.
The factory team riders have been in France this week for training and for the pre-season team photo shooting and are looking forward for some in-competition "training" at Valence.
Top riders in the KTM Red Bull MX factory team will have the chance to face off with some of their future GP rivals this weekend at Valence in France, one of the major pre-season events before the start of the World Championship series.
On the starting list are Max Nagl of Germany, the KTM factory rider in MX1 for 2008 and MX2 riders Tommy Searle, Tyla Rattray and Rui Goncalves. They travel to the circuit about 100km south of the city of Lyon, which offers a compact and hard, stony surface.
Weather reports indicate that this year the event may be dry. It is often run in rain typical for this time of year.
The factory team riders have been in France this week for training and for the pre-season team photo shooting and are looking forward for some in-competition "training" at Valence.
Experience hits the turf
From Whistelstop Productions
BLOOMFIELD, ON -- Episode 2 of Toyota Truck presents Motorcycle Experience premieres Saturday morning at 11:30 am Eastern on TSN and TSN HD.
During this new episode host Dave Hatch checks out a custom CFL Grey Cup tribute bike - "Touch Down", former national 600 sport bike champion Clint McBain will discuss shopping for a motorcycle, in-house riding instructor Clinton Smout teaches emergency braking during "Cruise Control," guest rider Mark Kaczmarczyk will sample Harley-Davidson's brand new 1200 Nightster and Dave and Norm continue their tour in eastern Quebec on the north shore of the St. Lawrence.
Motorcycle Experience is created with the help of Honda Canada, BMW Motorrad, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Canada and Parts Canada.
Motorcycle Experience - Episode 2 will also air on TSN and TSN HD Wednesday, Feb. 27 - 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 28 - 1:30 a.m., and Saturday, March 1 - 4:30 a.m. All times are eastern.
Form more info visit http://www.motorcycleexperience.ca/.
BLOOMFIELD, ON -- Episode 2 of Toyota Truck presents Motorcycle Experience premieres Saturday morning at 11:30 am Eastern on TSN and TSN HD.
During this new episode host Dave Hatch checks out a custom CFL Grey Cup tribute bike - "Touch Down", former national 600 sport bike champion Clint McBain will discuss shopping for a motorcycle, in-house riding instructor Clinton Smout teaches emergency braking during "Cruise Control," guest rider Mark Kaczmarczyk will sample Harley-Davidson's brand new 1200 Nightster and Dave and Norm continue their tour in eastern Quebec on the north shore of the St. Lawrence.
Motorcycle Experience is created with the help of Honda Canada, BMW Motorrad, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Canada and Parts Canada.
Motorcycle Experience - Episode 2 will also air on TSN and TSN HD Wednesday, Feb. 27 - 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 28 - 1:30 a.m., and Saturday, March 1 - 4:30 a.m. All times are eastern.
Form more info visit http://www.motorcycleexperience.ca/.
Women's conference set for Colorado
From the American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, OH - The American Motorcyclist Association has announced its International Women & Motorcycling Conference (IWMC) will take place at the Keystone Resort & Conference Center in Keystone, CO, on Aug. 19-22, 2009.
Located approximately 90 minutes west of Denver, Keystone's state-of-the-art amenities and infrastructure, as well as its proximity to world-class motorcycling destinations within Colorado's Rocky Mountain region, are expected to substantially increase the stature of what has become known internationally as the premier women's motorcycling event. The selection of the Keystone site was the culmination of several months of research by the AMA and representatives of prominent women's motorcycling organizations.
The 2009 event will be the fifth AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference. Previous conferences took place in 1997, 2000, 2002 and 2006. The AMA looks to continue to build upon the success of past conferences with the Keystone event, which will be the first IWMC held west of the Mississippi River.
IWMC 2009 event pricing, reservation applications and lodging information will be available shortly. For updated information, please visit http://www.womenandmotorcycling.com/. To learn more about the Keystone Resort & Conference Center, please visit http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001W4fi6eaLPFluPUyAegktGNmN6uIXX6eBnj2Z-TqtkF3AX-4LXaiHltLq4RTtFsfm-dTdiAELqEZB6nam7U2u_9WgaPMvabMofYfSBP9z9CgQwmAFLBWDTni9qxUrPMLi.
Carmichael to design Daytona track
From Daytona International Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Florida native Ricky Carmichael, hailed by some as the greatest motocross racer of all time, will design the Daytona Supercross by Honda track for the prestigious event on Friday night, March 7 at historic Daytona International Speedway.
Carmichael, who retired from competition last year and owns a record five Daytona Supercross By Honda victories, will design the unique supercross track on the start/finish line infield portion of Daytona International Speedway for the Daytona Supercross by Honda.
“What a thrill to be able to have one of the sport's greatest riders of all time design a course for today’s greatest riders,” said Speedway President Robin Braig. “We’re thrilled to have Ricky offer his expertise in designing what will be a fun and challenging course to compete on under the lights at ‘The World Center for Racing.’ ”
The course will be constructed by Mark Barnett, former Supercross Champion and three-time National Champion. Barnett, dubbed “The Bomber” while on the circuit from 1978-85, competed at Daytona from 1980-84, coming from last place to finish second in the ’84 event.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Florida native Ricky Carmichael, hailed by some as the greatest motocross racer of all time, will design the Daytona Supercross by Honda track for the prestigious event on Friday night, March 7 at historic Daytona International Speedway.
Carmichael, who retired from competition last year and owns a record five Daytona Supercross By Honda victories, will design the unique supercross track on the start/finish line infield portion of Daytona International Speedway for the Daytona Supercross by Honda.
“What a thrill to be able to have one of the sport's greatest riders of all time design a course for today’s greatest riders,” said Speedway President Robin Braig. “We’re thrilled to have Ricky offer his expertise in designing what will be a fun and challenging course to compete on under the lights at ‘The World Center for Racing.’ ”
The course will be constructed by Mark Barnett, former Supercross Champion and three-time National Champion. Barnett, dubbed “The Bomber” while on the circuit from 1978-85, competed at Daytona from 1980-84, coming from last place to finish second in the ’84 event.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Record crowd expected at Georgia Dome
From Live Nation Motor Sports
AURORA, IL – Torco Fuels Honda’s Kevin Windham won his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross race at Houstone's Reliant Stadium since 2005 last weekend and aims to carry the momentum into this Saturday’s race at Atlanta’s Georgia Dome. Last year a record-breaking 70,649 fans packed into the Georgia Dome to watch Monster Energy Supercross.
This weekend’s AMA Supercross class race will air on CBS Sports this Sunday at Noon (EST). The AMA Supercross Lites class race will air on SPEED Saturday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m.
This weekend the Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites championship begins. Reigning Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ryan Villopoto, will race on the East Region this year. Last year he won all but the one race en route to the first AMA Supercross Lites championship of his career.
Also expected to run up front are Torco Fuels Honda’s Josh Grant and Tray Cannard, Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Branden Jesseman, Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Nico Izzi and Yamaha of Troy’s Ryan Morais.
Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps was the race’s early leader last weekend but crashed, giving the lead to Windham. Points leader Chad Reed suffered from a bad start, but the Team San Manuel Yamaha rider salvaged some points by working his way into second place on lap 11.
Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Austin Stroupe, of Corona, Calif., won the first Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career last weekend in Houston. The Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites championship heads into a break until April 26 at Seattle’s Qwest Field.
Two of the sport’s biggest names, James Stewart and Ricky Carmichael engaged in classic race last year. Carmichael, who competed on a select schedule in 2007 to begin a career in stock-car racing, chased Stewart during the 20-lap feature. On the way to his first AMA Supercross championship, Stewart held off Carmichael for his sixth win of the season.
Last year Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey competed on the Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites Series and won the main event. It was the first supercross race of Dungey’s career.
The first AMA Supercross race ever held in Atlanta was March 5, 1977, and Bob Hannah won on a Yamaha. On Feb. 22, 1986 Honda rider Keith Turpin won the first-ever AMA Supercross Lites main event.
AURORA, IL – Torco Fuels Honda’s Kevin Windham won his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross race at Houstone's Reliant Stadium since 2005 last weekend and aims to carry the momentum into this Saturday’s race at Atlanta’s Georgia Dome. Last year a record-breaking 70,649 fans packed into the Georgia Dome to watch Monster Energy Supercross.
This weekend’s AMA Supercross class race will air on CBS Sports this Sunday at Noon (EST). The AMA Supercross Lites class race will air on SPEED Saturday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m.
This weekend the Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites championship begins. Reigning Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ryan Villopoto, will race on the East Region this year. Last year he won all but the one race en route to the first AMA Supercross Lites championship of his career.
Also expected to run up front are Torco Fuels Honda’s Josh Grant and Tray Cannard, Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Branden Jesseman, Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Nico Izzi and Yamaha of Troy’s Ryan Morais.
Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps was the race’s early leader last weekend but crashed, giving the lead to Windham. Points leader Chad Reed suffered from a bad start, but the Team San Manuel Yamaha rider salvaged some points by working his way into second place on lap 11.
Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Austin Stroupe, of Corona, Calif., won the first Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career last weekend in Houston. The Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites championship heads into a break until April 26 at Seattle’s Qwest Field.
Two of the sport’s biggest names, James Stewart and Ricky Carmichael engaged in classic race last year. Carmichael, who competed on a select schedule in 2007 to begin a career in stock-car racing, chased Stewart during the 20-lap feature. On the way to his first AMA Supercross championship, Stewart held off Carmichael for his sixth win of the season.
Last year Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey competed on the Eastern Regional AMA Supercross Lites Series and won the main event. It was the first supercross race of Dungey’s career.
The first AMA Supercross race ever held in Atlanta was March 5, 1977, and Bob Hannah won on a Yamaha. On Feb. 22, 1986 Honda rider Keith Turpin won the first-ever AMA Supercross Lites main event.
Beaulac wins at Valcourt
with files from KTM Canada
Dominic Beaulac edged KTM's Maxime Sylvestre for victory in the Pro 450 final at the Valcourt Grand Prix ice race last Sunday. The two enjoyed an entertaining battle for the win before Beaulac previaled.
Earlier in the day, Sylvestre's Picotte Motosport teammate Andrew Ranger injured his ankle trying to pass Beaulac for the lead during a heat race.
Dominic Beaulac edged KTM's Maxime Sylvestre for victory in the Pro 450 final at the Valcourt Grand Prix ice race last Sunday. The two enjoyed an entertaining battle for the win before Beaulac previaled.
Earlier in the day, Sylvestre's Picotte Motosport teammate Andrew Ranger injured his ankle trying to pass Beaulac for the lead during a heat race.
Caselli keeps points lead
From KTM Racing
MESQUITE, NV -- Defending WORCS Champion Red Bull KTM rider Kurt Caselli retained the points lead after the second round of the WORCS Series at Mesquite MX Park last Sunday.
RPM KTM rider Kyle Summers grabbed the holeshot around the first turn while Caselli garnered a mid-pack start with his teammate Justin Soule further back around 25th.
With lap 1 complete Summers was still in the lead with Bobby Garrison in tow. Caselli had moved into the top 10 while Soule was also moving forward, already into 14th. A few laps later Caselli had moved into the top five and Soule had broken into the top 10.
Caselli received a quick air filter change when he came in to refuel at the first pit stop but he was back in action in no time. By the halfway mark Soule was sitting in fifth place and Caselli had already moved into second about 15 seconds off the leader.
A crash on lap 10 caused the hard-charging Caselli to lose time on the current leader when he remounted and had to return to the pits to check over the bike. Once he was back on the course he had lost approximately one minute to the leader, Garrison.
Caselli finished a solid second to maintain and lengthen his series points lead. Soule finished an impressive fifth after a near last place start.
Round 3 of the WORCS Series will take place March 14-16 in Lake Havasu, AZ.
Results
1. Bobby Garrison, Yamaha
2. Kurt Caselli, KTM
3. Ricky Dietrich, Kawasaki
4. Kyle Summers, KTM
5. Justin Soule, KTM
Standings
1. Kurt Caselli, KTM 55
2. Bobby Garrison, Yamaha 44
3. Bobby Bonds, Kawasaki 39
4. Kyle Summers, KTM 39
5. Ricky Dietrich, Kawasaki 32
MESQUITE, NV -- Defending WORCS Champion Red Bull KTM rider Kurt Caselli retained the points lead after the second round of the WORCS Series at Mesquite MX Park last Sunday.
RPM KTM rider Kyle Summers grabbed the holeshot around the first turn while Caselli garnered a mid-pack start with his teammate Justin Soule further back around 25th.
With lap 1 complete Summers was still in the lead with Bobby Garrison in tow. Caselli had moved into the top 10 while Soule was also moving forward, already into 14th. A few laps later Caselli had moved into the top five and Soule had broken into the top 10.
Caselli received a quick air filter change when he came in to refuel at the first pit stop but he was back in action in no time. By the halfway mark Soule was sitting in fifth place and Caselli had already moved into second about 15 seconds off the leader.
A crash on lap 10 caused the hard-charging Caselli to lose time on the current leader when he remounted and had to return to the pits to check over the bike. Once he was back on the course he had lost approximately one minute to the leader, Garrison.
Caselli finished a solid second to maintain and lengthen his series points lead. Soule finished an impressive fifth after a near last place start.
Round 3 of the WORCS Series will take place March 14-16 in Lake Havasu, AZ.
Results
1. Bobby Garrison, Yamaha
2. Kurt Caselli, KTM
3. Ricky Dietrich, Kawasaki
4. Kyle Summers, KTM
5. Justin Soule, KTM
Standings
1. Kurt Caselli, KTM 55
2. Bobby Garrison, Yamaha 44
3. Bobby Bonds, Kawasaki 39
4. Kyle Summers, KTM 39
5. Ricky Dietrich, Kawasaki 32
Benelli annouces racing contingencies
From Benelli Canada
Benelli Canada (a Division of Crono Motorcraft) has introduced its 2008 Canadian motorcycle road racing contingency program in conjunction with the release of the evolution of Benelli's WSBK weapon, the Tornado Tre 1130 and the Tre-K 1130 for spring of 2008.
All models of Benelli motorcycles are eligible: Tornado Tre, TNT, TNT Sport, TNT CafeRacer, Tre-K and TNT / TNT S 899cc models. Later, announcements will be made on contingency funds for Benelli's 449cc BXcross motocross bike, the 505cc BXenduro and supermoto models.
Any nationally or regionally run, motorcycle road race, recognized by a legitimate sanctioning body, all motorcycle classes in Canada, that would normally allow entrance to 1130cc / 899cc three cylinder, fuel injected, liquid cooled motorcycles, are eligible for the following:
1st place - $1000.00*
2nd $750*
3rd $650*
4th $500*
5th $450*
6th $400*
7th $350*
8th $300*
9th $250*
10th $150*
*Awards issued as parts credit redeemable at any Canadian Benelli dealer.
Awards will be processed based on result confirmation with the sanctioning bodies. Riders must be registered with Benelli Canada, to receive their awards. Eligible motorcycles must retain the stock “Benelli” logo on the tank and also bear the name Benelli on the upper part of the belly pan.
Benelli Canada also offers further club racing support with “racer only” pricing on all new Benellis, as well as specially discounted racing kits for specific models.
Please contact Paul Moes at paul.moes@benelli.ca for more information on these programs.
Benelli Canada (a Division of Crono Motorcraft) has introduced its 2008 Canadian motorcycle road racing contingency program in conjunction with the release of the evolution of Benelli's WSBK weapon, the Tornado Tre 1130 and the Tre-K 1130 for spring of 2008.
All models of Benelli motorcycles are eligible: Tornado Tre, TNT, TNT Sport, TNT CafeRacer, Tre-K and TNT / TNT S 899cc models. Later, announcements will be made on contingency funds for Benelli's 449cc BXcross motocross bike, the 505cc BXenduro and supermoto models.
Any nationally or regionally run, motorcycle road race, recognized by a legitimate sanctioning body, all motorcycle classes in Canada, that would normally allow entrance to 1130cc / 899cc three cylinder, fuel injected, liquid cooled motorcycles, are eligible for the following:
1st place - $1000.00*
2nd $750*
3rd $650*
4th $500*
5th $450*
6th $400*
7th $350*
8th $300*
9th $250*
10th $150*
*Awards issued as parts credit redeemable at any Canadian Benelli dealer.
Awards will be processed based on result confirmation with the sanctioning bodies. Riders must be registered with Benelli Canada, to receive their awards. Eligible motorcycles must retain the stock “Benelli” logo on the tank and also bear the name Benelli on the upper part of the belly pan.
Benelli Canada also offers further club racing support with “racer only” pricing on all new Benellis, as well as specially discounted racing kits for specific models.
Please contact Paul Moes at paul.moes@benelli.ca for more information on these programs.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Coppins wins Italian opener
From Yamaha Racing
MONTEVARCHI, ITALY -- It was another successful double-act for Yamaha Motocross Team's Josh Coppins and David Philippaerts after their 1-2 results at the Mantova Starcross International last week. This time it was Coppins' turn to take the top step of the rostrum after the New Zealander produced two strong performances to walk away with the chequered flag in both motos. Philippaerts was second on both occasions as is now the "provisional" leader of the standings as his teammate will not contest the full series.
MX1 was largely a contest between the two factory riders. Coppins led the first race with Philippaerts doggedly hanging onto his tail. After 22 minutes Philippaerts took his chance and relegated the winner of five Grand Prix in 2007 to second spot. Coppins remained composed and watched the lines of the Tuscan before counter-attacking within the final two laps to seize the victory.
"It was a good race and another step forward for me as I feel my riding is getting better," said Coppins. "David was on the pace and we were both going fast this weekend. I still have some more meetings before the first GP and we will continue to work and build-up to the first Grand Prix."
The second moto was a straightforward affair as Coppins set a brace of blistering laps early into the second half of the sprint to break away from the Italian.
MX2 World Champion Antonio Cairoli was third in both sprints with just his second appearance steering the Yamaha Red Bull De Carli YZ450F. The 2007 MX2 Italian number one made a steady and solid beginning to his 2008 calendar.
Cairoli's crown in MX2 looks as though it will be closely fought over this season. In Montevarchi the class was decided between Yamaha Team Ricci's Nicolas Aubin (the eventual winner with 2-1 results), Davide Guarneri (5-3) and 3C Yamaha's Manuel Monni (1-5).
The second round of the series follows quickly next weekend at Castiglione Del Lago. Coppins will head northwest to race the Valence International in southern France.
Results Montevarchi Italian Championship Rnd 1
MX1
RACE 1: 1.Coppins (Yamaha); 2.Philippaerts (Yamaha); 3.Cairoli (Yamaha); 4.De Reuver (Honda); 5. Salvini (Suzuki).
RACE 2: 1.Coppins (Yamaha); 2.Philippaerts (Yamaha); 3.Cairoli (Yamaha); 4.De Reuver (Honda); 5. Salvini (Suzuki).
MX2
RACE 1: 1.Monni (Yamaha); 2.Aubin (Yamaha); 3.Tarroux (KTM); 4.Pellegrini (KTM); 5.Guarneri (Yamaha)
RACE 2: 1.Aubin (Yamaha); 2.Bonini (Yamaha); 3.Guarneri (Yamaha); 4.Seistola (Honda); 5.Monni (Yamaha)
MONTEVARCHI, ITALY -- It was another successful double-act for Yamaha Motocross Team's Josh Coppins and David Philippaerts after their 1-2 results at the Mantova Starcross International last week. This time it was Coppins' turn to take the top step of the rostrum after the New Zealander produced two strong performances to walk away with the chequered flag in both motos. Philippaerts was second on both occasions as is now the "provisional" leader of the standings as his teammate will not contest the full series.
MX1 was largely a contest between the two factory riders. Coppins led the first race with Philippaerts doggedly hanging onto his tail. After 22 minutes Philippaerts took his chance and relegated the winner of five Grand Prix in 2007 to second spot. Coppins remained composed and watched the lines of the Tuscan before counter-attacking within the final two laps to seize the victory.
"It was a good race and another step forward for me as I feel my riding is getting better," said Coppins. "David was on the pace and we were both going fast this weekend. I still have some more meetings before the first GP and we will continue to work and build-up to the first Grand Prix."
The second moto was a straightforward affair as Coppins set a brace of blistering laps early into the second half of the sprint to break away from the Italian.
MX2 World Champion Antonio Cairoli was third in both sprints with just his second appearance steering the Yamaha Red Bull De Carli YZ450F. The 2007 MX2 Italian number one made a steady and solid beginning to his 2008 calendar.
Cairoli's crown in MX2 looks as though it will be closely fought over this season. In Montevarchi the class was decided between Yamaha Team Ricci's Nicolas Aubin (the eventual winner with 2-1 results), Davide Guarneri (5-3) and 3C Yamaha's Manuel Monni (1-5).
The second round of the series follows quickly next weekend at Castiglione Del Lago. Coppins will head northwest to race the Valence International in southern France.
Results Montevarchi Italian Championship Rnd 1
MX1
RACE 1: 1.Coppins (Yamaha); 2.Philippaerts (Yamaha); 3.Cairoli (Yamaha); 4.De Reuver (Honda); 5. Salvini (Suzuki).
RACE 2: 1.Coppins (Yamaha); 2.Philippaerts (Yamaha); 3.Cairoli (Yamaha); 4.De Reuver (Honda); 5. Salvini (Suzuki).
MX2
RACE 1: 1.Monni (Yamaha); 2.Aubin (Yamaha); 3.Tarroux (KTM); 4.Pellegrini (KTM); 5.Guarneri (Yamaha)
RACE 2: 1.Aubin (Yamaha); 2.Bonini (Yamaha); 3.Guarneri (Yamaha); 4.Seistola (Honda); 5.Monni (Yamaha)
Knight wins GB opener
From the David Knight Results Service
Red Bull KTM Off Road Team’s David Knight stepped up his preparations ahead of the opening round of the ’08 US GNCC series, which takes place in Florida on March 2, by competing in and winning the first GB XC event of ’08 at Matchams Park last weekend.
With his previous competitive outings this season having been on a 250cc two-stroke, Knight wanted to use the race as a pre-GNCC shakedown and compete for three hours aboard KTM’s new 450cc four-stroke.
Claiming the holeshot Knight’s early advantage vanished when he momentarily took a wrong turn and dropped to second. Then getting rope caught around his rear wheel the reigning GNCC champion was forced to pit having lost the use of his rear brake. Quickly back out on track Knight needed little time at all to work his way into the lead before opening up a commanding advantage of some eight minutes.
“The event was great preparation for me," Knight said. "I knew the conditions would be sandy, like the first race of the US GNCC championship, so it was perfect for me. I wanted to race the bike for three hours before heading to the US. I’ve spent a lot of time adjusting to and setting up the new bike in recent weeks and everything went well during the race."
Red Bull KTM Off Road Team’s David Knight stepped up his preparations ahead of the opening round of the ’08 US GNCC series, which takes place in Florida on March 2, by competing in and winning the first GB XC event of ’08 at Matchams Park last weekend.
With his previous competitive outings this season having been on a 250cc two-stroke, Knight wanted to use the race as a pre-GNCC shakedown and compete for three hours aboard KTM’s new 450cc four-stroke.
Claiming the holeshot Knight’s early advantage vanished when he momentarily took a wrong turn and dropped to second. Then getting rope caught around his rear wheel the reigning GNCC champion was forced to pit having lost the use of his rear brake. Quickly back out on track Knight needed little time at all to work his way into the lead before opening up a commanding advantage of some eight minutes.
“The event was great preparation for me," Knight said. "I knew the conditions would be sandy, like the first race of the US GNCC championship, so it was perfect for me. I wanted to race the bike for three hours before heading to the US. I’ve spent a lot of time adjusting to and setting up the new bike in recent weeks and everything went well during the race."
Celebrating a century of Norton
From the Classic & Vintage Swap Meet
TSAWWASSEN, BC -- Though James Lansdowne (“Pa”) Norton built his first motorcycle in 1902, it was not until 1908 that the famous company produced its first bike with a Norton engine. To celebrate this landmark event, the annual Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show ‘N Shine in Tsawwassen, BC on April 27 will feature “100 years of Norton Motorcycles.”
In racing, Norton accumulated 19 (of a possible 24) outright victories in the Isle of Man Senior TT between 1924 and 1954, and six Grand Prix championships between 1929 and 1937.
Featured at this year's show will be a 1929 Norton CS1 of the type that (one-time Vancouver resident) Alec Bennett rode to victory in the 1927 Senior TT. Also expected is a 1947 Manx Norton (Senior TT winner that year), a 1936 International model, and many other significant examples of Norton singles and twins — including the Commando, voted Bike of the Year five years in succession in the UK.
“I’m inviting all owners of Norton motorcycles from the last 100 years to bring and display their bikes,” said show organizer Todd Copan.
Now in its 23rd year, the Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show ‘N Shine is the biggest event of its kind in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. Filling three halls of European, American and Japanese vintage motorcycle parts, the annual Classic and Vintage Swap Meet and Show ‘n Shine has become a calendar fixture for motorcycle enthusiasts from all over North America and beyond.
The Swap Meet is held at the South Delta Recreation Centre on 56th Street in Tsawwassen, near the junction with Highway 17, 20 minutes north of the US border and 30 minutes south of Vancouver. Swap meet doors open at 10:00am. Admission $7, under 12 free.
TSAWWASSEN, BC -- Though James Lansdowne (“Pa”) Norton built his first motorcycle in 1902, it was not until 1908 that the famous company produced its first bike with a Norton engine. To celebrate this landmark event, the annual Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show ‘N Shine in Tsawwassen, BC on April 27 will feature “100 years of Norton Motorcycles.”
In racing, Norton accumulated 19 (of a possible 24) outright victories in the Isle of Man Senior TT between 1924 and 1954, and six Grand Prix championships between 1929 and 1937.
Featured at this year's show will be a 1929 Norton CS1 of the type that (one-time Vancouver resident) Alec Bennett rode to victory in the 1927 Senior TT. Also expected is a 1947 Manx Norton (Senior TT winner that year), a 1936 International model, and many other significant examples of Norton singles and twins — including the Commando, voted Bike of the Year five years in succession in the UK.
“I’m inviting all owners of Norton motorcycles from the last 100 years to bring and display their bikes,” said show organizer Todd Copan.
Now in its 23rd year, the Classic & Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet and Show ‘N Shine is the biggest event of its kind in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. Filling three halls of European, American and Japanese vintage motorcycle parts, the annual Classic and Vintage Swap Meet and Show ‘n Shine has become a calendar fixture for motorcycle enthusiasts from all over North America and beyond.
The Swap Meet is held at the South Delta Recreation Centre on 56th Street in Tsawwassen, near the junction with Highway 17, 20 minutes north of the US border and 30 minutes south of Vancouver. Swap meet doors open at 10:00am. Admission $7, under 12 free.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Australia's best motorcycle roads. Bucketts and backroads
Bucketts way and Dungog, NSWAfter or before the Thunderbolts way, depending on your direction of travel, is Bucketts way.To me the section between Gloucester and Nabiac is great, the other section of road called the Bucketts way lies south to Raymond Terrace and is bumpy in a few parts but is in the process of being resealed as is the Thunderbolts way north.Nabiac to Gloucester.So first heading
Windham wins first since '05
From Live Nation Motor Sports
HOUSTON, TX – Torco Fuels Honda’s Kevin Windham, of Centerville, MS, won his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross race at Reliant Stadium since 2005 in front of 49,986 fans Saturday night. Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Austin Stroupe, of Corona, CA, won the first Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career.
Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps won the $1,500 Progressive Holeshot Award with Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Tim Ferry in tow through turn 1. Points leader Chad Reed went through turn 1 near the middle of the pack.
Millsaps crashed and Windham moved into the lead and never looked back. Reed, who rides for Team San Manuel, moved into second place on lap 11 and couldn’t catch Windham. Reed finished second and Ferry finished third.
“I have been working hard this year, and tonight it paid off,” said Windham. “I could not have won in front of a better crowd. I put my head down tonight and used the crowd to my advantage. The crowd was on their feet for the entire race.”
Rockstar Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey won the $1,000 Progressive Holeshot Award in the Lites class as he led Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Brett Metcalfe and Lawrence through turn 1. Metcalfe passed Dungey for the lead but was re-passed on the opening lap. Moments after moving into the number-one position, Dungey crashed and fell back several positions and allowed Lawrence to assume the lead. Two laps later Dungey suffered another crash.
On lap five Stroupe, who is a rookie this season, moved past Lawrence for the lead and held on for the next 10 laps.
"I finally had a decent start, and that helped me in the beginning of the race,” said Stroupe. “I put myself in position to stay up front and that’s what I did.”
AMA Supercross Class Results
1. Kevin Windham, Honda
2. Chad Reed, Yamaha
3. Tim Ferry, Kawasaki
4. Josh Hill, Yamaha
5. Andrew Short, Honda
6. Nathan Ramsey, Yamaha
7. Charles Summey, Yamaha
8. Davi Millsaps, Honda
9. Nick Wey, KTM
10. David Vuillemin, Suzuki
AMA Supercross Class Season Standings
1. Chad Reed, Yamaha, 169
2. Kevin Windham, Honda, 137
3. Tim Ferry, Kawasaki, 119
4. Andrew Short, Honda, 101
5. Davi Millsaps, Honda, 98
6. Nathan Ramsey, Yamaha, 85
7. Joshua Hill, Yamaha, 82
8. Nick Wey, KTM, 77
9. Mike Alessi, Suzuki, 69
10. David Vuillemin, Suzuki, 60
Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites Class Results
1. Austin Stroupe, Kawasaki
2. Jason Lawrence, Yamaha
3. Jake Weimer, Honda
4. Ryan Dungey, Suzuki
5. Brett Metcalfe, Kawasaki
6. Dan Reardon, Honda
7. Robert Kiniry, Honda
8. Wil Hahn, Yamaha
9. Michael LaPaglia, Suzuki
10. Thomas Hahn, Kawasaki
Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites Standings
1. Jason Lawrence, Yamaha, 135
2. Ryan Dungey, Suzuki, 129
3. Austin Stroupe, Kawasaki, 113
4. Brett Metcalfe, Kawasaki, 112
5. Tommy Hahn, Kawasaki, 101
6. Dan Reardon, Honda, 95
7. Justin Brayton, KTM, 85
8. Robert Kiniry, Kawasaki, 71
9. Wil Hahn, Yamaha, 69
10. Billy Laninovich, KTM 62
HOUSTON, TX – Torco Fuels Honda’s Kevin Windham, of Centerville, MS, won his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross race at Reliant Stadium since 2005 in front of 49,986 fans Saturday night. Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Austin Stroupe, of Corona, CA, won the first Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites race of his career.
Red Bull Honda’s Davi Millsaps won the $1,500 Progressive Holeshot Award with Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Tim Ferry in tow through turn 1. Points leader Chad Reed went through turn 1 near the middle of the pack.
Millsaps crashed and Windham moved into the lead and never looked back. Reed, who rides for Team San Manuel, moved into second place on lap 11 and couldn’t catch Windham. Reed finished second and Ferry finished third.
“I have been working hard this year, and tonight it paid off,” said Windham. “I could not have won in front of a better crowd. I put my head down tonight and used the crowd to my advantage. The crowd was on their feet for the entire race.”
Rockstar Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey won the $1,000 Progressive Holeshot Award in the Lites class as he led Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Brett Metcalfe and Lawrence through turn 1. Metcalfe passed Dungey for the lead but was re-passed on the opening lap. Moments after moving into the number-one position, Dungey crashed and fell back several positions and allowed Lawrence to assume the lead. Two laps later Dungey suffered another crash.
On lap five Stroupe, who is a rookie this season, moved past Lawrence for the lead and held on for the next 10 laps.
"I finally had a decent start, and that helped me in the beginning of the race,” said Stroupe. “I put myself in position to stay up front and that’s what I did.”
AMA Supercross Class Results
1. Kevin Windham, Honda
2. Chad Reed, Yamaha
3. Tim Ferry, Kawasaki
4. Josh Hill, Yamaha
5. Andrew Short, Honda
6. Nathan Ramsey, Yamaha
7. Charles Summey, Yamaha
8. Davi Millsaps, Honda
9. Nick Wey, KTM
10. David Vuillemin, Suzuki
AMA Supercross Class Season Standings
1. Chad Reed, Yamaha, 169
2. Kevin Windham, Honda, 137
3. Tim Ferry, Kawasaki, 119
4. Andrew Short, Honda, 101
5. Davi Millsaps, Honda, 98
6. Nathan Ramsey, Yamaha, 85
7. Joshua Hill, Yamaha, 82
8. Nick Wey, KTM, 77
9. Mike Alessi, Suzuki, 69
10. David Vuillemin, Suzuki, 60
Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites Class Results
1. Austin Stroupe, Kawasaki
2. Jason Lawrence, Yamaha
3. Jake Weimer, Honda
4. Ryan Dungey, Suzuki
5. Brett Metcalfe, Kawasaki
6. Dan Reardon, Honda
7. Robert Kiniry, Honda
8. Wil Hahn, Yamaha
9. Michael LaPaglia, Suzuki
10. Thomas Hahn, Kawasaki
Western Regional AMA Supercross Lites Standings
1. Jason Lawrence, Yamaha, 135
2. Ryan Dungey, Suzuki, 129
3. Austin Stroupe, Kawasaki, 113
4. Brett Metcalfe, Kawasaki, 112
5. Tommy Hahn, Kawasaki, 101
6. Dan Reardon, Honda, 95
7. Justin Brayton, KTM, 85
8. Robert Kiniry, Kawasaki, 71
9. Wil Hahn, Yamaha, 69
10. Billy Laninovich, KTM 62
Chad Johnson perfect in Pikeville
From Live Nation Motor Sports
AURORA, IL – Chad Johnson passed Gray Davenport on the second lap to win the 25-lap AMA Arenacross main event in Pikeville, KY Saturday night. Johnson’s win gives him a 33-point lead ahead of Kelly Smith.
When asked his good luck and the Monster Team’s bad luck Chad had this comment: “Luck is preparedness meeting opportunity and the opportunity arose tonight for me to show how prepared I am.”
Smith and teammate Brock Sellards were involved in a first turn pile up causing them to play catch up throughout the race. Sellards finished eighth on the night while Smith finished 13.
Kevin Johnson had a good night running in the top three and finishing second. He was challenged by both Davenport and Teddy Maier. Maier got around Davenport on lap 21.
In the AMA Arenacross Lites class, Cory Green battled with Dave Ginolfi for the first half of the 18-lap main. Green passed Ginolfi in traffic and went uncontested the rest of the night to win. Tyler Bright wrapped up the East Lites Championship with his third place finish.
Next week riders will have to make a choice as Toyota Arenacross will run on both the east coast and west coast on the same night, Greensboro, NC and Sacramento, CA.
AMA Arenacross Class Results, (Pikeville, KY)
1. Chad Johnson, Honda
2. Kevin Johnson, Yamaha
3. Teddy Maier, Honda
4. Gray Davenport, Kawasaki
5. Travis Sewell, Suzuki
Toyota AMA Arenacross Class Point Standings
1. Chad Johnson (7) 366
2. Kelly Smith (3) 333
3. Brock Sellards (4) 312
4. Teddy Maier (2) 288
5. Kevin Johnson (2) 273
AMA Arenacross Class Lites Results
1. Cory Green, Suzuki
2. Gray Davenport, Kawasaki
3. Tyler Bright, Suzuki
4. Dave Ginolfi, Kawasaki
5. Codi Adams, Yamaha
AURORA, IL – Chad Johnson passed Gray Davenport on the second lap to win the 25-lap AMA Arenacross main event in Pikeville, KY Saturday night. Johnson’s win gives him a 33-point lead ahead of Kelly Smith.
When asked his good luck and the Monster Team’s bad luck Chad had this comment: “Luck is preparedness meeting opportunity and the opportunity arose tonight for me to show how prepared I am.”
Smith and teammate Brock Sellards were involved in a first turn pile up causing them to play catch up throughout the race. Sellards finished eighth on the night while Smith finished 13.
Kevin Johnson had a good night running in the top three and finishing second. He was challenged by both Davenport and Teddy Maier. Maier got around Davenport on lap 21.
In the AMA Arenacross Lites class, Cory Green battled with Dave Ginolfi for the first half of the 18-lap main. Green passed Ginolfi in traffic and went uncontested the rest of the night to win. Tyler Bright wrapped up the East Lites Championship with his third place finish.
Next week riders will have to make a choice as Toyota Arenacross will run on both the east coast and west coast on the same night, Greensboro, NC and Sacramento, CA.
AMA Arenacross Class Results, (Pikeville, KY)
1. Chad Johnson, Honda
2. Kevin Johnson, Yamaha
3. Teddy Maier, Honda
4. Gray Davenport, Kawasaki
5. Travis Sewell, Suzuki
Toyota AMA Arenacross Class Point Standings
1. Chad Johnson (7) 366
2. Kelly Smith (3) 333
3. Brock Sellards (4) 312
4. Teddy Maier (2) 288
5. Kevin Johnson (2) 273
AMA Arenacross Class Lites Results
1. Cory Green, Suzuki
2. Gray Davenport, Kawasaki
3. Tyler Bright, Suzuki
4. Dave Ginolfi, Kawasaki
5. Codi Adams, Yamaha
AMA updates race partner search
From the American Motorcyclist Association
INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) provided an update on the Association's ongoing effort to find promotional partners for its professional racing series after the conclusion of the organization's board meeting in Indianapolis, which concluded Saturday.
"The AMA received a number of proposals in response to our call for bids," said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. "We are following a defined protocol with our governing board to thoroughly review each bid. At this point, no decisions have been made but the process is moving forward as planned."
Dingman stressed that secrecy was a necessary part of the proceedings. "It's very competitive and we must ensure the sanctity of the review process. As we consider our options, our first priority must be the health and well-being of the AMA and its 290,000 members. When all is said and done, professional racing promotion will improve motorcycle racing, and that's a good thing for the AMA and its members who race."
INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) provided an update on the Association's ongoing effort to find promotional partners for its professional racing series after the conclusion of the organization's board meeting in Indianapolis, which concluded Saturday.
"The AMA received a number of proposals in response to our call for bids," said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. "We are following a defined protocol with our governing board to thoroughly review each bid. At this point, no decisions have been made but the process is moving forward as planned."
Dingman stressed that secrecy was a necessary part of the proceedings. "It's very competitive and we must ensure the sanctity of the review process. As we consider our options, our first priority must be the health and well-being of the AMA and its 290,000 members. When all is said and done, professional racing promotion will improve motorcycle racing, and that's a good thing for the AMA and its members who race."
Monday, February 18, 2008
Hayden fastest at Jerez
From Repsol Honda
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN -- Repsol Honda rider Nicky Hayden rode the fastest lap during three busy days of testing at Jerez, the American this afternoon riding a lightning-quick lap on qualifiers, more than half a second inside last year’s Spanish GP pole position.
Teammate Dani Pedrosa used the final day of testing to continue his comeback following his recent hand injury but the Spaniard was hampered by the sometimes treacherously windy conditions. Testing started late this morning following a rain shower, the conditions staying cool and blustery throughout.
2006 MotoGP World Champion Hayden, who was also fastest on day one and third quickest in yesterday’s official qualifying-style shootout session which was run in the wet, left the Spanish circuit in buoyant mood after some productive work on chassis set-up and Michelin tire development.
“It’s definitely been a really positive and productive three days," Hayden said. "We had high hopes coming here because when we tested here in November the bike worked pretty good and Michelin tires normally work good at Jerez, so this is a good track for us, also there’s no big long straightaways. The wind here has made it tough, the conditions haven’t been easy, but I do feel more comfortable on this year’s bike in the wind."
Marlboro Ducati's defending World Champion Casey Stoner was quickest yesterday to win the qualifying style shootout and a BMW car.
Pedrosa – who broke bones in his right hand when he crashed at Sepang, Malaysia, four weeks ago – rode in some pain, icing the injured hand between outings. The three-time World Champion, who didn’t ride in the wet yesterday, worked on his Repsol Honda RC212V to ease the stress on the injury.
The MotoGP paddock now moves to Qatar for the final preseason tests at Losail (Feb. 28-29) where the first race of 2008 takes place under floodlights on the night of March 9.
Combined Practice Times (courtesy Michelin)
1. Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:38.848
2. Jorge Lorenzo (Fiat-Yamaha Team), 1:39.252
3. Andrea Dovizioso (JiR Team Scot Honda RC212V) 1:39.313
4. Randy de Puniet (Honda LCR RC212V) 1:39.351
5. Valentino Rossi (Fiat-Yamaha Team) 1:39.568
6. Colin Edwards (Yamaha Tech 3 YZR-M1) 1:39.629
7. James Toseland (Yamaha Tech 3 YZR-M1) 1:39.678
8. Casey Stoner (Ducati Marlboro Team Desmosedici) 1:39.845
9. Alex de Angelis (Honda Gresini RC212V) 1:39.932
10. Shinya Nakano (Honda Gresini RC212V) 1:40.192
11. Loris Capirossi (Rizla Suzuki GSV-R) 1:40.442
12. Chris Vermeulen (Rizla Suzuki GSV-R) 1:40.576
13. Anthony West (Kawasaki Racing ZX-RR) 1:41.026
14. Sylvain Guintoli (Alice Ducati Desmosedici) 1:41.177
15. Marco Melandri (Ducati Marlboro Team Desmosedici) 1:41.292
16. Toni Elias (Alice Ducati Desmosedici) 1:41.311
17. Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:41.352
18. John Hopkins (Kawasaki Racing ZX-RR) 1:41.901
2007 Spanish GP pole position: Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:39.402
Jerez lap record" Valentino Rossi (Gauloises Yamaha YZR-M1) 1:40.595 (2005)
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN -- Repsol Honda rider Nicky Hayden rode the fastest lap during three busy days of testing at Jerez, the American this afternoon riding a lightning-quick lap on qualifiers, more than half a second inside last year’s Spanish GP pole position.
Teammate Dani Pedrosa used the final day of testing to continue his comeback following his recent hand injury but the Spaniard was hampered by the sometimes treacherously windy conditions. Testing started late this morning following a rain shower, the conditions staying cool and blustery throughout.
2006 MotoGP World Champion Hayden, who was also fastest on day one and third quickest in yesterday’s official qualifying-style shootout session which was run in the wet, left the Spanish circuit in buoyant mood after some productive work on chassis set-up and Michelin tire development.
“It’s definitely been a really positive and productive three days," Hayden said. "We had high hopes coming here because when we tested here in November the bike worked pretty good and Michelin tires normally work good at Jerez, so this is a good track for us, also there’s no big long straightaways. The wind here has made it tough, the conditions haven’t been easy, but I do feel more comfortable on this year’s bike in the wind."
Marlboro Ducati's defending World Champion Casey Stoner was quickest yesterday to win the qualifying style shootout and a BMW car.
Pedrosa – who broke bones in his right hand when he crashed at Sepang, Malaysia, four weeks ago – rode in some pain, icing the injured hand between outings. The three-time World Champion, who didn’t ride in the wet yesterday, worked on his Repsol Honda RC212V to ease the stress on the injury.
The MotoGP paddock now moves to Qatar for the final preseason tests at Losail (Feb. 28-29) where the first race of 2008 takes place under floodlights on the night of March 9.
Combined Practice Times (courtesy Michelin)
1. Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:38.848
2. Jorge Lorenzo (Fiat-Yamaha Team), 1:39.252
3. Andrea Dovizioso (JiR Team Scot Honda RC212V) 1:39.313
4. Randy de Puniet (Honda LCR RC212V) 1:39.351
5. Valentino Rossi (Fiat-Yamaha Team) 1:39.568
6. Colin Edwards (Yamaha Tech 3 YZR-M1) 1:39.629
7. James Toseland (Yamaha Tech 3 YZR-M1) 1:39.678
8. Casey Stoner (Ducati Marlboro Team Desmosedici) 1:39.845
9. Alex de Angelis (Honda Gresini RC212V) 1:39.932
10. Shinya Nakano (Honda Gresini RC212V) 1:40.192
11. Loris Capirossi (Rizla Suzuki GSV-R) 1:40.442
12. Chris Vermeulen (Rizla Suzuki GSV-R) 1:40.576
13. Anthony West (Kawasaki Racing ZX-RR) 1:41.026
14. Sylvain Guintoli (Alice Ducati Desmosedici) 1:41.177
15. Marco Melandri (Ducati Marlboro Team Desmosedici) 1:41.292
16. Toni Elias (Alice Ducati Desmosedici) 1:41.311
17. Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:41.352
18. John Hopkins (Kawasaki Racing ZX-RR) 1:41.901
2007 Spanish GP pole position: Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team RC212V) 1:39.402
Jerez lap record" Valentino Rossi (Gauloises Yamaha YZR-M1) 1:40.595 (2005)
AMA updates Smilie situation
From the American Motorcyclist Association
INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) released information Saturday concerning unsubstantiated expenses reimbursed to former AMA Board Chairman Dal Smilie. The information was presented by AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman during the annual corporate board members meeting held at the Omni Severin Hotel that day.
"In September, 2007, the AMA undertook an internal review of Board members' travel expenses," said Dingman. "During the review, a pattern emerged of unsubstantiated expense reimbursements to Mr. Smilie. In October, AMA counsel contacted Mr. Smilie regarding the nature of the unsubstantiated expense reimbursements. Preceding the AMA Board's Nov. 17 meeting, Mr. Smilie offered his resignation from the Board.
"At the November meeting, the AMA board accepted Mr. Smilie's resignation and approved AMA management's recommendation to undertake a third-party review intended to document the scope of the unsubstantiated expense reimbursements to Mr. Smilie. The AMA engaged the services of an outside firm to undertake a forensic review of Mr. Smilie's expense reimbursement requests. Information gathered to date was presented to the AMA Board in its meeting yesterday, Friday February 15.
"At Friday's meeting, the AMA Board voted to report the results of the review to appropriate law enforcement authorities. Meanwhile, the forensic review is continuing, and therefore we can make no further statements regarding the matter at this time.
"This action demonstrates that the AMA Board of Directors and AMA management hold themselves accountable and act with integrity," Dingman said. "I want to assure our members that we consider the management of their money to be a sacred trust. If that trust is violated, then we owe it to each and every member to seek justice on their behalf and to undertake measures to ensure that their trust is never violated again."
INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) released information Saturday concerning unsubstantiated expenses reimbursed to former AMA Board Chairman Dal Smilie. The information was presented by AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman during the annual corporate board members meeting held at the Omni Severin Hotel that day.
"In September, 2007, the AMA undertook an internal review of Board members' travel expenses," said Dingman. "During the review, a pattern emerged of unsubstantiated expense reimbursements to Mr. Smilie. In October, AMA counsel contacted Mr. Smilie regarding the nature of the unsubstantiated expense reimbursements. Preceding the AMA Board's Nov. 17 meeting, Mr. Smilie offered his resignation from the Board.
"At the November meeting, the AMA board accepted Mr. Smilie's resignation and approved AMA management's recommendation to undertake a third-party review intended to document the scope of the unsubstantiated expense reimbursements to Mr. Smilie. The AMA engaged the services of an outside firm to undertake a forensic review of Mr. Smilie's expense reimbursement requests. Information gathered to date was presented to the AMA Board in its meeting yesterday, Friday February 15.
"At Friday's meeting, the AMA Board voted to report the results of the review to appropriate law enforcement authorities. Meanwhile, the forensic review is continuing, and therefore we can make no further statements regarding the matter at this time.
"This action demonstrates that the AMA Board of Directors and AMA management hold themselves accountable and act with integrity," Dingman said. "I want to assure our members that we consider the management of their money to be a sacred trust. If that trust is violated, then we owe it to each and every member to seek justice on their behalf and to undertake measures to ensure that their trust is never violated again."
AMA concerned about threat to funds
From the American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, OH -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters is urging Congress to allow states to divert federal money now used for motorcycle training and awareness to instead promote the use of motorcycle helmets, the American Motorcyclist Association reports.
Peters sent letters to House and Senate leaders this week asking for the change.
Ed Moreland, AMA Vice President for Government Relations, expressed concern that diverting federal motorcycle safety funds to promote helmet use could harm rider training courses and motorcycle awareness programs that are already underfunded in many states.
"Helmet use is certainly one part of a comprehensive approach to motorcycle safety," said Moreland. "But this step is a direct raid on funds that were appropriated by Congress to address the specific safety concerns of the motorcyclists' rights community. Furthermore, the use of motorcycle helmets is already advocated in existing motorcycle safety initiatives."
Moreland also expressed concern that Peters' proposal could contradict sections of transportation bills passed in 1998 and 2005 that ban the use of federal motorcycle safety funds to lobby state legislatures in favour of mandatory helmet laws and could effectively reverse those bans.
The AMA strongly advocates the voluntary use of helmets by adults, along with other appropriate safety gear, and does not oppose laws requiring helmet use by minors. But the Association believes adults should be allowed to make their own decisions about when to wear a helmet.
PICKERINGTON, OH -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters is urging Congress to allow states to divert federal money now used for motorcycle training and awareness to instead promote the use of motorcycle helmets, the American Motorcyclist Association reports.
Peters sent letters to House and Senate leaders this week asking for the change.
Ed Moreland, AMA Vice President for Government Relations, expressed concern that diverting federal motorcycle safety funds to promote helmet use could harm rider training courses and motorcycle awareness programs that are already underfunded in many states.
"Helmet use is certainly one part of a comprehensive approach to motorcycle safety," said Moreland. "But this step is a direct raid on funds that were appropriated by Congress to address the specific safety concerns of the motorcyclists' rights community. Furthermore, the use of motorcycle helmets is already advocated in existing motorcycle safety initiatives."
Moreland also expressed concern that Peters' proposal could contradict sections of transportation bills passed in 1998 and 2005 that ban the use of federal motorcycle safety funds to lobby state legislatures in favour of mandatory helmet laws and could effectively reverse those bans.
The AMA strongly advocates the voluntary use of helmets by adults, along with other appropriate safety gear, and does not oppose laws requiring helmet use by minors. But the Association believes adults should be allowed to make their own decisions about when to wear a helmet.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Pictures of the Week - Jim
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Web site. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.
See Jim with his Honda Gold Wing in picturesque Helen, GA.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
See Jim with his Honda Gold Wing in picturesque Helen, GA.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Ducati Recalls Hypermotard for License Plate Problem
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2006-2007 Hypermotard motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the license number plate holder support bracket posts can crack. The license plate can fall off the motorcycle.
865 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, the license number plate holder support bracket posts can crack. The license plate can fall off the motorcycle.
865 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Cam-Am Spyder Roadster Recalled for Front Brake Problem
Cam-Am has issued a recall of certain 2008 Spyder Roadster three-wheel motorcycles.
On certain passenger vehicles, there is a presence of an abnormal quantity of air in the hydraulic circuit of the front brake. The brake pedal may go almost to the floor when depressing. A driver may be unable to stop the vehicle as expected increasing the risk of a crash.
476 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain passenger vehicles, there is a presence of an abnormal quantity of air in the hydraulic circuit of the front brake. The brake pedal may go almost to the floor when depressing. A driver may be unable to stop the vehicle as expected increasing the risk of a crash.
476 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Hyosung Recalls GT650 and GV650 Motorcycles for Fuel Tank Leaks
Hyosung has issued a recall of certain 2005-2007 GT650 and GV650 motorcycles.
These motorcycles were built with fuel tank cap gaskets that prevent proper tank ventilation. This could result in vehicle stalling which could result in a crash and/or fuel leakage which could result in a fire.
3292 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
These motorcycles were built with fuel tank cap gaskets that prevent proper tank ventilation. This could result in vehicle stalling which could result in a crash and/or fuel leakage which could result in a fire.
3292 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Kawasaki Recalls 2008 Ninja EX250 for Tail Light Failure
Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2008 Ninja EX250J8F and EX250J8FL motorcycles.
The tail light bulb may prematurely fail. Inappropriate lighting could reduce visibility creating the possibility of a crash resulting in injury or death.
532 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The tail light bulb may prematurely fail. Inappropriate lighting could reduce visibility creating the possibility of a crash resulting in injury or death.
532 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Daytona Bike Week - March Madness on Motorcycles
The 67th anniversary of Daytona Bike Week is being held February 29 - March 9, 2008 in Daytona Beach, Florida. The start of Daytona Bike Week is often announced on the morning TV news shows. You know, where somebody sticks their face in front of the camera and announces: "We're at the opening of Daytona Bike Week. Good Morning America," and then you see a whole line of bikes roar off in front of the camera. Unfortunately, most of the remainder of Bike Week will not be seen by non-motorcyclists.
Check out my article, Daytona, for details.
Here in the frigid Northeast, I hear plenty of people talking about going to Daytona. Some are riding down with friends. Riding sometimes means riding in a car and towing a trailer with the bike on it. After all, the 1500 miles down with uncertain weather conditions has left many a rider stranded in a snow storm or Nor'easter. After that happens to you once, you tend to be a little more cautious the next time you go.
Maybe you want to skip Daytona and concentrate on planning to go to some smaller rallies this year. Be sure to read my article, Motorcycle Rallies, where I discuss rallies and give you information about the top rallies that I like. Of course, your views may be different -- this is Motorcycle Views after all.
I just got my registration information for the Americade Motorcycle Rally. That one is my favorite and I've gone every year since 1994.
It can get expensive going to lots of rallies, especially if you're taking two bikes. Double gas, double tolls. You just have to pick and choose what appeals to you most. Motorcycle rallies are a lot of fun. If you've never attended a rally, you owe it to yourself to go. You just might find a rally or two that you'll want to go to every year, just like I go to Americade, regardless of the weather.
Check out my article, Daytona, for details.
Here in the frigid Northeast, I hear plenty of people talking about going to Daytona. Some are riding down with friends. Riding sometimes means riding in a car and towing a trailer with the bike on it. After all, the 1500 miles down with uncertain weather conditions has left many a rider stranded in a snow storm or Nor'easter. After that happens to you once, you tend to be a little more cautious the next time you go.
Maybe you want to skip Daytona and concentrate on planning to go to some smaller rallies this year. Be sure to read my article, Motorcycle Rallies, where I discuss rallies and give you information about the top rallies that I like. Of course, your views may be different -- this is Motorcycle Views after all.
I just got my registration information for the Americade Motorcycle Rally. That one is my favorite and I've gone every year since 1994.
It can get expensive going to lots of rallies, especially if you're taking two bikes. Double gas, double tolls. You just have to pick and choose what appeals to you most. Motorcycle rallies are a lot of fun. If you've never attended a rally, you owe it to yourself to go. You just might find a rally or two that you'll want to go to every year, just like I go to Americade, regardless of the weather.
So finally the true Motorcycle VED evasion figures are out!
This week MAG , the BMF and the MCIA have all put out press releases concerning the release of the true Motorcycle Vehicle Evasion Duty evasion figures, which surprise, surprise are massively lower than the claimed 40% by the DVLA.
The actual figures from the Department of Transport into the true levels of VED indicates that motorcycle VED evasion is estimated at 6.5%.
What a climb down!! At least the truth is now out.
Ride safe!
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
The actual figures from the Department of Transport into the true levels of VED indicates that motorcycle VED evasion is estimated at 6.5%.
What a climb down!! At least the truth is now out.
Ride safe!
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Magnificent seven for Superbikes
From Professional Motorsports Productions
TORONTO, ON -- The Parts Canada Superbike Championship will once again consist of seven rounds in 2008, opening at a brand new venue and closing at one of its most famous facilities.
The season kicks off at Calabogie Motorsport Park, about 100km (60 miles) west of Ottawa May 22-25 and ends Aug. 29-31 at storied Shannonville Motorsport Park, near Belleville, ON.
In between the national motorcycle road racing championship will make its traditional stops at Calgary’s Race City Motorsport Park, Mosport International Raceway in Bowmanville, ON and Shubenacadie, NS track Atlantic Motorsport Park. Mosport and AMP will stage doubleheader events.
The series also features a first-ever mid-season Pirelli tire test, immediately after the August AMP rounds at the brand new Mirabel ICAR venue northeast of Montreal on Aug. 13.
“We really wanted to have a Quebec round in 2008, but unfortunately the Mirabel facility is not quite prepared for a major spectator event,” explained Fraser. “The Quebec market is crucial, there is a lot of racer and fan support, so we are working for a national at ICAR's impressive facility as part of the 2009 Parts Canada National tour.”
The Calabogie season opener will be held on its 2.81km (1.74-mile), 13-turn Stadium Track. This will be the first motorcycle race and the first national motorsports event staged at the venue.
From Calabogie the series heads west to Race City Motorsport Park to tackle the fast 3.6km (2.0-mile), 11-turn circuit June 27-29.
After a three-week break action resumes at Mosport International Raceway July 17-20 for the first of back-to-back doubleheader rounds on the challenging 3.9km (2.459-mile), 10-turn track.
Atlantic Motorsport Park plays host to a critical late season doubleheader Aug. 7-10. The races at the 2.56km (1.6-mile), 11-turn track will be organized by the newly-formed Atlantic Roadracing League.
Champions will be crowned at Shannonville Motorsport Park Aug. 29-31, when the racers battle it out on the 2.45km (1.53-mile), 11-turn Pro Track. SMP has staged over 40 national Superbike races.
The 2008 calendar also includes a Pirelli tire test April 15-16 at Florida’s Jennings GP.
2008 Parts Canada Superbike Championship Schedule
Round 1 May 22-25 Calabogie Motorsports Park Calabogie, ON
Round 2 June 26-29 Race City Motorsport Park Calgary, AB
Round 3 July 17-19 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 4 July 17-20 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 5 Aug. 7-9 Atlantic Motorsport Park Shubenacadie, NS
Round 6 Aug. 7-10 Atlantic Motorsport Park Shubenacadie, NS
Round 7 Aug. 28-31 Shannonville Motorsport Park Shannonville, ON
TORONTO, ON -- The Parts Canada Superbike Championship will once again consist of seven rounds in 2008, opening at a brand new venue and closing at one of its most famous facilities.
The season kicks off at Calabogie Motorsport Park, about 100km (60 miles) west of Ottawa May 22-25 and ends Aug. 29-31 at storied Shannonville Motorsport Park, near Belleville, ON.
In between the national motorcycle road racing championship will make its traditional stops at Calgary’s Race City Motorsport Park, Mosport International Raceway in Bowmanville, ON and Shubenacadie, NS track Atlantic Motorsport Park. Mosport and AMP will stage doubleheader events.
The series also features a first-ever mid-season Pirelli tire test, immediately after the August AMP rounds at the brand new Mirabel ICAR venue northeast of Montreal on Aug. 13.
“We really wanted to have a Quebec round in 2008, but unfortunately the Mirabel facility is not quite prepared for a major spectator event,” explained Fraser. “The Quebec market is crucial, there is a lot of racer and fan support, so we are working for a national at ICAR's impressive facility as part of the 2009 Parts Canada National tour.”
The Calabogie season opener will be held on its 2.81km (1.74-mile), 13-turn Stadium Track. This will be the first motorcycle race and the first national motorsports event staged at the venue.
From Calabogie the series heads west to Race City Motorsport Park to tackle the fast 3.6km (2.0-mile), 11-turn circuit June 27-29.
After a three-week break action resumes at Mosport International Raceway July 17-20 for the first of back-to-back doubleheader rounds on the challenging 3.9km (2.459-mile), 10-turn track.
Atlantic Motorsport Park plays host to a critical late season doubleheader Aug. 7-10. The races at the 2.56km (1.6-mile), 11-turn track will be organized by the newly-formed Atlantic Roadracing League.
Champions will be crowned at Shannonville Motorsport Park Aug. 29-31, when the racers battle it out on the 2.45km (1.53-mile), 11-turn Pro Track. SMP has staged over 40 national Superbike races.
The 2008 calendar also includes a Pirelli tire test April 15-16 at Florida’s Jennings GP.
2008 Parts Canada Superbike Championship Schedule
Round 1 May 22-25 Calabogie Motorsports Park Calabogie, ON
Round 2 June 26-29 Race City Motorsport Park Calgary, AB
Round 3 July 17-19 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 4 July 17-20 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, ON
Round 5 Aug. 7-9 Atlantic Motorsport Park Shubenacadie, NS
Round 6 Aug. 7-10 Atlantic Motorsport Park Shubenacadie, NS
Round 7 Aug. 28-31 Shannonville Motorsport Park Shannonville, ON
Motorcycle Experience returns
From Whistlestop Productions
BLOOMFIELD, ON -- Toyota Truck will present a brand new season of Motorcycle Experience this weekend. ME will launch it's 20th season Saturday morning at 11:30 am Eastern on TSN and TSN HD.
During the first show for 2008 host Dave Hatch will visit the National Motorcycle Show in Toronto, former national 600 sport bike champion Clint McBain will discuss the simple concept of washing your bike, in-house riding instructor Clinton Smout kicks off a new segment entitled "Cruise Control", guest rider Glen Rose will sample Yamaha's brand new XV1900 Custom and Dave and Norm kick off a brand new tour in eastern Quebec.
Motorcycle Experience is created with the help of Honda Canada, BMW Motorrad, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Canada and Parts Canada.
Episode 1 will also air on TSN and TSN HD Monday, Feb. 18 - 12:30 am, Tuesday, Feb. 19 - 12:30 pm and Sunday, Feb. 24 - 4:00 am (all times eastern).
For more info visit http://www.motorcycleexperience.ca/.
BLOOMFIELD, ON -- Toyota Truck will present a brand new season of Motorcycle Experience this weekend. ME will launch it's 20th season Saturday morning at 11:30 am Eastern on TSN and TSN HD.
During the first show for 2008 host Dave Hatch will visit the National Motorcycle Show in Toronto, former national 600 sport bike champion Clint McBain will discuss the simple concept of washing your bike, in-house riding instructor Clinton Smout kicks off a new segment entitled "Cruise Control", guest rider Glen Rose will sample Yamaha's brand new XV1900 Custom and Dave and Norm kick off a brand new tour in eastern Quebec.
Motorcycle Experience is created with the help of Honda Canada, BMW Motorrad, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Canada and Parts Canada.
Episode 1 will also air on TSN and TSN HD Monday, Feb. 18 - 12:30 am, Tuesday, Feb. 19 - 12:30 pm and Sunday, Feb. 24 - 4:00 am (all times eastern).
For more info visit http://www.motorcycleexperience.ca/.
A day off
It was a long night. I had some Cipro that the travel doctor had prescribed in case I contracted dysentery, and this seemed an opportune time to start taking it. By about 6am I was starting to feel better, and I went for breakfast and shoved down a couple of poached eggs and a slice of dry toast. All of the English guests were going out to see a boy's choir and eat crumpets or something of the like, but the Germans invited me to join them at throwing axe and slingshot practice. While still feeling a little shaky, I was keen to participate in this unique form of recreation. I bullseyed the tin can twice with the slingshot – best o' the bunch – and consistently sunk the big-ass Gransfors double-bladed throwing axe into the tree stump. Yowza!
The rest of the day was a non-event. I was still feeling a bit under the weather, and my back hurt like hell – probably from dead-lifting the GS. Bed and codeine seemed like an appropriate activity.
About half-way through the day I roused myself and sat in the sun for a while, looking over a vast plain and to the mountains beyond. The sky was still heavy, but there was no rain and the gravid cumulus clouds seemed content to congregate around the mountains. Although I was thoroughly enjoying this expedition, having some time on my hands I came to realize that an experience such as this needs to be shared. I would sorely like to return here someday with a bike-riding companion.
Hopefully the weather would hold through tomorrow, when I would make my way to Zimbali Lodge, near Durban, to meet up for the start of the BMW F800GS bike launch.
Sick
Dinner was swell. There were 13 of us and half the table was German, the other half English. At one point we were discussing Triumphs and Nortons, and the Germans got a real kick out of some of my Lucas jokes (why do the British like their beer warm? Because their refrigerators are made by Lucas). The Brits limited themselves to pained smiles.
The next morning dawned somewhat overcast, with the mountains obscured by cloud cover. Andrew, my host, drew me a three-hour route that would take in some scenic overpasses and lead me to the town of Howick which had an Internet cafe where I could send some emails and upload this blog.
I had been riding, following the map, for about 20 minutes when the rain started. At times it was coming down quite heavily, and I realized that I'd under dressed. The bike's thermometer registered 21 degrees, but the rain made it feel much colder. Luckily I'd packed my rain suit, and that helped a bit, but it was still chilly. I engaged the heated grips at full power. This I had not expected in Africa, in summer.
While most of the dirt roads are quite well maintained, others can degenerate into 4x4 trails. On one such trail, in the pissing rain, I encountered some of that wretched African red mud. Despite the full knobbies the bike felt like it was on ice. There was absolutely no control – on throttle, off or constant throttle. It didn't matter.
The GPS said that the next turn was 20km away. I forged onward at about 10km/h, rocketing up to 30km/h on the clear spots. On approach to a particularly nasty stretch of mud I chose the wrong line. Some of the ruts were rather evil looking, however they were far better than attempting to ride the central crest, but I dithered, choosing the crest. The front wheel fell into the left rut, and the rear into the right. I was going sideways, on a 600lb motorcycle at 20km/h. There was no saving it, and I concentrated on trying to ride out my momentum so I could lay the bike down as gently as possible. I executed the famous Thorpe tuck-and-roll maneuver and stood up unharmed.
It took several attempts to right the GS, as traction was severely limited. But I did get it up, and thanks to the many guards and skid plates there was absolutely no damage. Only another 10km to go. I had heard that some people ride these roads on normal street bikes. The thought of doing this on, say, a CBR600 horrified me.
Once I came to a paved road I engaged the GPS and made a beeline for Howick. I was cold, tired and starting to feel a little shaky.
The Internet cafe was pathetic. Two computers couldn't get a network connection, the CD ROM didn't work on another, and on the last the monitor was broken. I ended up borrowing a customer's laptop in order to post to the blog.
On the way back to the lodge I began to feel seriously sick. I put it down to being cold. It was a long hour's ride back on the highway, and another 30 minutes of wet dirt roads on top. As soon as I was back at the lodge, I stripped down and jumped into a hot bath, but it didn't help. I exploded into the toilet a few times and went to bed, shivering.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Yamaha riders ready to race
From Yamaha Racing
LOSAIL, QATAR -- Noriyuki Haga and Troy Corser (both Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team) made their final pre-race preparations for the 2008 World Superbike season at the Losail International Circuit today; the same venue that serves as the championship kick off on Feb. 23.
The Losail track surface was not in as good condition as it was for the team's previous winter test around the 5.380km circuit in Qatar, but the main objective of this showing was to ensure that all the latest equipment would be in prime condition when points become available for real next week.
The team brought four all-new machines and all of the latest specification, but as this was not an official test the riders had to use a more limited stock of tires than usual.
Corser was second fastest rider of all on the final day, posting a 1:59.0, with Haga only marginally behind with a time of 1:59.3.
Shinichi Nakatomi (Team YZF Yamaha) was also out testing in preparation for the start of the year, running his latest spec of Yamaha YZF-R1 machine in his one-man team. He set a best of 2:00.7, on off-the-shelf Pirelli control tires. Yamaha's second French WSB team GMT94 did not attend this last pre-season test.
"We tried a few new things with the variable intake settings for example, but only a little bit at this test," Corser said. "That said, we still found a lot of positive stuff over the past two days. It was mostly a shakedown test, with a bit of back-to-back comparison of the different bikes and I feel really confident with our starting package for this coming season. The only downside was that I felt a bit feverish this afternoon, aching a bit, like am catching the 'flu, so it wasn't that much fun on the bike sometimes."
Broc Parkes and Fabien Foret (both Yamaha World Supersport Team) declared themselves ready to take the 2008-specification Yamaha YZF-R6 into competitive action after their final pre-season test was completed earlier today in Qatar.
Parkes was the faster of the two on the stopwatch, setting a best of 2:02.9, with Foret 0.6 seconds from his teammate. Foret, the 2002 World Supersport Champion, found improvements in two main areas of performance and each rider is now ready for the task of qualifying and then racing, at the first round on Feb. 23.
LOSAIL, QATAR -- Noriyuki Haga and Troy Corser (both Yamaha Motor Italia WSB Team) made their final pre-race preparations for the 2008 World Superbike season at the Losail International Circuit today; the same venue that serves as the championship kick off on Feb. 23.
The Losail track surface was not in as good condition as it was for the team's previous winter test around the 5.380km circuit in Qatar, but the main objective of this showing was to ensure that all the latest equipment would be in prime condition when points become available for real next week.
The team brought four all-new machines and all of the latest specification, but as this was not an official test the riders had to use a more limited stock of tires than usual.
Corser was second fastest rider of all on the final day, posting a 1:59.0, with Haga only marginally behind with a time of 1:59.3.
Shinichi Nakatomi (Team YZF Yamaha) was also out testing in preparation for the start of the year, running his latest spec of Yamaha YZF-R1 machine in his one-man team. He set a best of 2:00.7, on off-the-shelf Pirelli control tires. Yamaha's second French WSB team GMT94 did not attend this last pre-season test.
"We tried a few new things with the variable intake settings for example, but only a little bit at this test," Corser said. "That said, we still found a lot of positive stuff over the past two days. It was mostly a shakedown test, with a bit of back-to-back comparison of the different bikes and I feel really confident with our starting package for this coming season. The only downside was that I felt a bit feverish this afternoon, aching a bit, like am catching the 'flu, so it wasn't that much fun on the bike sometimes."
Broc Parkes and Fabien Foret (both Yamaha World Supersport Team) declared themselves ready to take the 2008-specification Yamaha YZF-R6 into competitive action after their final pre-season test was completed earlier today in Qatar.
Parkes was the faster of the two on the stopwatch, setting a best of 2:02.9, with Foret 0.6 seconds from his teammate. Foret, the 2002 World Supersport Champion, found improvements in two main areas of performance and each rider is now ready for the task of qualifying and then racing, at the first round on Feb. 23.
Northrop to race with KTM in Canada
From KTM Canada Inc.
ST-BRUNO, QC -- KTM Canada Inc. has announced a key addition to its 2008 Factory Motocross Team. Jeff Northrop, who retains residence in Murrieta, CA, has been contracted to contest on the 2008 450 SX-F in the Premier MX1 Class for the 2008 CMRC National Motocross Series as well as the 2008 Montreal Supercross.
“By winning the MX2 East National Series in 2005 and 2007, we definitely proved that the KTM 250 SX-F is the machine to beat in the MX2 class. Built with the same Ready to Race spirit, the 2008 450 SX-F will undoubtedly be very competitive in the MX1 class in Jeff Northrop’s hands,” said Andy White, KTM Canada Race Manager.
Northrop is well known for his results and skills in Arenacross, where he has finished on the podium and won multiple main events in the AMA and BooKoo AX Championships. He finished second overall in the 2005 Canadian MX2 West series and, in 2007, won his first Pro national moto in the MX1 class at The Wastelands in Nanaimo, BC, claiming second overall that same day.
The 2007 MX1 season was actually excellent for Northrop. Although he only competed in five rounds of the MX1 class of the CMRC Series, he managed to earn National #10. He also finished on a high note, capping the season off with 3-3 moto scores at Walton, which landed him on the podium in third overall.
Currently riding the West Coast AMA Supercross Lites Series, Northrop is continuing to test and train for the 2008 Canadian outdoors.
ST-BRUNO, QC -- KTM Canada Inc. has announced a key addition to its 2008 Factory Motocross Team. Jeff Northrop, who retains residence in Murrieta, CA, has been contracted to contest on the 2008 450 SX-F in the Premier MX1 Class for the 2008 CMRC National Motocross Series as well as the 2008 Montreal Supercross.
“By winning the MX2 East National Series in 2005 and 2007, we definitely proved that the KTM 250 SX-F is the machine to beat in the MX2 class. Built with the same Ready to Race spirit, the 2008 450 SX-F will undoubtedly be very competitive in the MX1 class in Jeff Northrop’s hands,” said Andy White, KTM Canada Race Manager.
Northrop is well known for his results and skills in Arenacross, where he has finished on the podium and won multiple main events in the AMA and BooKoo AX Championships. He finished second overall in the 2005 Canadian MX2 West series and, in 2007, won his first Pro national moto in the MX1 class at The Wastelands in Nanaimo, BC, claiming second overall that same day.
The 2007 MX1 season was actually excellent for Northrop. Although he only competed in five rounds of the MX1 class of the CMRC Series, he managed to earn National #10. He also finished on a high note, capping the season off with 3-3 moto scores at Walton, which landed him on the podium in third overall.
Currently riding the West Coast AMA Supercross Lites Series, Northrop is continuing to test and train for the 2008 Canadian outdoors.
Boss Hoss steals the spotlight
From Boss Hoss Cycles
DYERSBURG, TN -- Boss Hoss Cycles, manufacturer of America’s ultimate V8-powered cycles, proudly announces that a 2007 Boss Hoss Super Sport motorcycle is tearing up the red carpet and cruising across the big screen in the blockbuster hit “Mad Money.” The Boss Hoss Super Sport out shines a star-studded cast in one of the first hit movies of 2008.
“We are absolutely thrilled about this placement,” says Rad Hunsley, COO of Boss Hoss Cycles. “The bike looks phenomenal, and ‘Mad Money’ is already a major hit. The Super Sport really shines—this may be its best performance yet.”
From the makers of “Thelma and Louise,” “Mad Money,” is about three female employees of the Federal Reserve (Katie Holmes, Diane Keaton and Queen Latifah) that are plotting to steal money that would otherwise be destroyed. Boss Hoss appears in a scene just after the successful heist, where the women decide to spend their money on things they could never afford before their criminal days. Holmes’ character, Jackie Truman, and her husband, Bob (Adam Rothenberg), are seen cruising on their shiny black 2007 Boss Hoss Super Sport with a 355 hp V8 engine and custom flame paint job.
Before heading to Hollywood, the Super Sport made its debut in the 2007 Boss Hoss model lineup. Crafted with a three-inch lower seat height and a three-inch shorter wheelbase than the standard Boss Hoss ZZ4 bike, this sportier model was designed to appeal to a wider range of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Since 1990, Boss Hoss has grown to be the only production made V8-powered motorcycle in the world with over 4,000 motorcycles sold.
DYERSBURG, TN -- Boss Hoss Cycles, manufacturer of America’s ultimate V8-powered cycles, proudly announces that a 2007 Boss Hoss Super Sport motorcycle is tearing up the red carpet and cruising across the big screen in the blockbuster hit “Mad Money.” The Boss Hoss Super Sport out shines a star-studded cast in one of the first hit movies of 2008.
“We are absolutely thrilled about this placement,” says Rad Hunsley, COO of Boss Hoss Cycles. “The bike looks phenomenal, and ‘Mad Money’ is already a major hit. The Super Sport really shines—this may be its best performance yet.”
From the makers of “Thelma and Louise,” “Mad Money,” is about three female employees of the Federal Reserve (Katie Holmes, Diane Keaton and Queen Latifah) that are plotting to steal money that would otherwise be destroyed. Boss Hoss appears in a scene just after the successful heist, where the women decide to spend their money on things they could never afford before their criminal days. Holmes’ character, Jackie Truman, and her husband, Bob (Adam Rothenberg), are seen cruising on their shiny black 2007 Boss Hoss Super Sport with a 355 hp V8 engine and custom flame paint job.
Before heading to Hollywood, the Super Sport made its debut in the 2007 Boss Hoss model lineup. Crafted with a three-inch lower seat height and a three-inch shorter wheelbase than the standard Boss Hoss ZZ4 bike, this sportier model was designed to appeal to a wider range of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Since 1990, Boss Hoss has grown to be the only production made V8-powered motorcycle in the world with over 4,000 motorcycles sold.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Calabogie kick off for Superbikes
From Professional Motorsports Productions
TORONTO, ON -- The Parts Canada Superbike Championship will open its 2008 season at a new venue, Calabogie Motorsports Park, located near Ottawa.
The 2.81km (1.74-mile), 13-turn Stadium Track will host the national series May 22-25. This will be the first motorcycle race held at Calabogie, although it has quickly become a popular venue for track days since opening in late 2006.
The Superbike National will be sponsored by Waste Management of Canada.
“Calabogie Motorsports Park is one of the most impressive race tracks to open in North America in a long time,” said Colin Fraser of Professional Motorsports Productions, which operates the Parts Canada Superbike Championship. “Its location, picturesque setting and daunting layout should make it a very popular stop for our series for many years to come.”
The Stadium Track hosted a CASC-OR car race last summer that was awarded the organization’s Race of the Year Award. The layout is distinguished by its elevation changes and features a 50-foot high sound berm that serves as a spectacular natural grandstand.
“We are thrilled to be holding our first national level race and we’re looking forward to working with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship,” said John Hamilton, Vice-President, Operations for Calabogie Motorsports Park. “We’ve had excellent feedback from the motorcycle
community.
“We are well-positioned between Montreal and Toronto, close to Ottawa, and the rolling terrain and natural amphitheatre of the Stadium Track will make this a great place to watch a race. We're looking forward to holding the first big race at Calabogie, and showcasing both the track and the surrounding resort community.”
The full series schedule will be announced shortly.
TORONTO, ON -- The Parts Canada Superbike Championship will open its 2008 season at a new venue, Calabogie Motorsports Park, located near Ottawa.
The 2.81km (1.74-mile), 13-turn Stadium Track will host the national series May 22-25. This will be the first motorcycle race held at Calabogie, although it has quickly become a popular venue for track days since opening in late 2006.
The Superbike National will be sponsored by Waste Management of Canada.
“Calabogie Motorsports Park is one of the most impressive race tracks to open in North America in a long time,” said Colin Fraser of Professional Motorsports Productions, which operates the Parts Canada Superbike Championship. “Its location, picturesque setting and daunting layout should make it a very popular stop for our series for many years to come.”
The Stadium Track hosted a CASC-OR car race last summer that was awarded the organization’s Race of the Year Award. The layout is distinguished by its elevation changes and features a 50-foot high sound berm that serves as a spectacular natural grandstand.
“We are thrilled to be holding our first national level race and we’re looking forward to working with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship,” said John Hamilton, Vice-President, Operations for Calabogie Motorsports Park. “We’ve had excellent feedback from the motorcycle
community.
“We are well-positioned between Montreal and Toronto, close to Ottawa, and the rolling terrain and natural amphitheatre of the Stadium Track will make this a great place to watch a race. We're looking forward to holding the first big race at Calabogie, and showcasing both the track and the surrounding resort community.”
The full series schedule will be announced shortly.
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