From worldsbk.com
Troy Corser (Yamaha Motor Italia WSB) set provisional pole position at the Algarve circuit in southern Portugal, as the brand-new Autodromo Internacional opened for racing action on Friday.
Without ever having seen the track before, and in wet conditions the Australian rider was quickest around the ups and downs of the 4.592km circuit, ending up with a time of 1 minute 55.791 seconds.
His closest adversaries were almost 1.5 seconds down, with British one-event rider Leon Haslam (HM Plant Honda) taking the next place. Third went to Ducati Xerox rider Michel Fabrizio, who tested here last week, with Ruben Xaus (Sterilgarda Go Eleven Ducati) completing the front row.
Three more Brits were on the second row, Cal Crutchlow (HM Plant Honda), Chris Walker (Ventaxia VK Honda) and Jonathan Rea (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda). The young northern Irish rider, promoted from Supersport to WSBK for his debut race following a straight swap with teammate Kenan Sofuoglu, put in a superb performance, ending up just three-tenths ahead of team-mate Carlos Checa.
The top two in the championship took things easy in the wet conditions, Troy Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) finishing 10 with Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia WSB) one place behind.
Two more championship protagonists, Max Neukirchner (Alstare Suzuki) and Max Biaggi (Sterilgarda Go Eleven Ducati) were on row 3.
Honda machines dominated the opening Supersport qualifying session, with eight CBR600RRs in the top 10, monopolizing the entire front row. Provisional pole went to Matthieu Lagrive (Intermoto Czech Honda), who clocked a time of 1:58.614. The Frenchman set his quickest lap just before a violent downpour virtually brought a halt to proceedings for the rest of the session.
Second quickest time went to Parkalgar Honda rider Josh Hayes, with Spain's Joan Lascorz (Glaner Motocard.com Honda) third, but three seconds behind. The front row was completed by Italian Gianluca Vizziello (Benjan Racing Team Honda).
Kenan Sofuoglu (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) made a positive return to Supersport with fifth quickest time ahead of the Hannspree Honda Althea of Gianluca Nannelli and the RES Software Suzukis of Barry Veneman and Didier Van Keymeulen.
World Champion Andrew Pitt (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) was down in 10th place, while Yamaha World Supersport's Broc Parkes and Fabien Foret failed to shine, notching up respectively 24th and 30th position.
The weekend battle that will crown this year's Superstock 1000 FIM Cup champion got underway in Friday's first qualifying session. The first round went to Australian Brendan Roberts (Ducati Xerox Junior Team), who set provisional pole, while current points leader Xavier Simeon (Suzuki Alstare), was only fifth, on the same row as Maxime Berger (Hannspree IDS Ten Kate Honda).
The fourth championship contender Alex Polita (Sterilgarda Go Eleven Ducati) struggled to 17th quickest time.
This year's European 600 Superstock champion Loris Baz (YZF Junior Team) stamped his authority on Friday's first qualifying session. The young French rider was one second quicker than the British pairing of Gino Rea and Dan Linfoot (Stonebaker), with Italian Danilo Petrucci (Trasimeno) for an all-Yamaha front row.
Superbike Qualifying Times
1. Corser T. (AUS) Yamaha YZF-R1 1:55.791
2. Haslam L. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:57.214
3. Fabrizio M. (ITA) Ducati 1098 F08 1:57.440
4. Xaus R. (ESP) Ducati 1098 RS 08 1:58.115
5. Crutchlow C. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:58.327
6. Walker C. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:58.557
7. Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:59.356
8. Checa C. (ESP) Honda CBR1000RR 1:59.676
9. Laconi R. (FRA) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:59.939
10. Bayliss T. (AUS) Ducati 1098 F08 2:00.012
11. Haga N. (JPN) Yamaha YZF-R1 2:00.152
12. Nieto F. (ESP) Suzuki GSX-R1000 2:00.194
13. Neukirchner M. (GER) Suzuki GSX-R1000 2:00.263
14. Biaggi M. (ITA) Ducati 1098 RS 08 2:00.288
15. Smrz J. (CZE) Ducati 1098 RS 08 2:00.362
16. Badovini A. (ITA) Kawasaki ZX-10R 2:00.643
Friday, October 31, 2008
Passin out the candy
I live in a newer construction residential development, thus where with out exaggerating, the kids will get bussed in. They can clean me out of a bag of 300 treats in a matter of an hour and a half. There will be a constant streaming line with little to no breaks, until the little kids are gone. Except for the little kids which we buy good treats for, we buy cheap small stuff for the bigger kids.
I'll be handing out candy till the rotten teenagers that are way too old to trick or treat are still knocking at the door. Eventually, I'll have had enough and I'll turn off the lights.
I may be a prick, but I made my kids stop trick or treating for this exact same reason when they turned thirteen.
I get annoyed when a sixteen year old knocks at my door at 10:30, no costume, no bag, and asks for a free handout. That Ain't what this was supposed to be about was it?
Do you want to know how I really feel? LOL! Just kidding. I LOVE the little ones in their costumes. It's just the big ones causing the problem here.
I'm all about Haloween. I do love it.
Stoner leaves hospital after surgery
From Marlboro Ducati
Casey Stoner underwent successful surgery on his wrist on Thursday at the Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico in Modena, Italy.
Antonio Landi, Specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery and Hand Surgery, was assisted by arthroscopic specialist Dr. Luigi Pederzini and Dr. Norman Della Rosa.
Using arthroscopic surgery, two floating bodies were removed from the area of the styloid process of the ulna bone (lower arm). Stoner was treated for pseudoarthrosis on his left scaphoid before the removal of a staple (which was inserted in Stoner's scaphoid during an operation in 2003), and a bone graft using the Herbert Bone Screw System, which is designed to promote early active motion.
Stoner wanted to give his personal thanks to the medical team and also to Ducati Corse's trusted consultant, Prof. Fabio Catani from the Rizzoli Hospital in Bologna, who has provided crucial advice and support over recent months, helping to set up the operation with the team led by Dr. Landi.
The Australian was discharged Friday afternoon and will begin his rehabilitation over the next few days on his return home to Switzerland.
Casey Stoner underwent successful surgery on his wrist on Thursday at the Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico in Modena, Italy.
Antonio Landi, Specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery and Hand Surgery, was assisted by arthroscopic specialist Dr. Luigi Pederzini and Dr. Norman Della Rosa.
Using arthroscopic surgery, two floating bodies were removed from the area of the styloid process of the ulna bone (lower arm). Stoner was treated for pseudoarthrosis on his left scaphoid before the removal of a staple (which was inserted in Stoner's scaphoid during an operation in 2003), and a bone graft using the Herbert Bone Screw System, which is designed to promote early active motion.
Stoner wanted to give his personal thanks to the medical team and also to Ducati Corse's trusted consultant, Prof. Fabio Catani from the Rizzoli Hospital in Bologna, who has provided crucial advice and support over recent months, helping to set up the operation with the team led by Dr. Landi.
The Australian was discharged Friday afternoon and will begin his rehabilitation over the next few days on his return home to Switzerland.
Race City future goes to vote
By John Hopkins
Calgary's City Council is expected to vote on a motion to decide the future of Race City Motorsports Park next Monday, Nov. 3 or Tuesday, Nov. 4.
The motion put forward by Aldermen Ric McIver and Joe Connelly asks that the City of Calgary honour its existing lease with Race City, which runs until 2025. The city currently plans to break the lease in 2010 so it can expand the Shepard Landfill, which sits adjacent to the facility.
The motion outlines several benefits the racing facility brings to the city, including acting as a deterrent to street racing thanks to its drag racing programs and serving as a tourism draw for the area. The motion also says Race City is responsible for over $100,000 a year in revenue to the city through rent, tax and business tax.
Race City Motorsports Inc. president Art Mackenzie has asked users of the facility in the Calgary area to contact their Aldermen and ask them to support the motion when it comes to a vote.
Calgary's City Council is expected to vote on a motion to decide the future of Race City Motorsports Park next Monday, Nov. 3 or Tuesday, Nov. 4.
The motion put forward by Aldermen Ric McIver and Joe Connelly asks that the City of Calgary honour its existing lease with Race City, which runs until 2025. The city currently plans to break the lease in 2010 so it can expand the Shepard Landfill, which sits adjacent to the facility.
The motion outlines several benefits the racing facility brings to the city, including acting as a deterrent to street racing thanks to its drag racing programs and serving as a tourism draw for the area. The motion also says Race City is responsible for over $100,000 a year in revenue to the city through rent, tax and business tax.
Race City Motorsports Inc. president Art Mackenzie has asked users of the facility in the Calgary area to contact their Aldermen and ask them to support the motion when it comes to a vote.
Nakano joins Aprilia in World Superbike
From worldsbk.com
Shinya Nakano has signed up to join Max Biaggi on the Aprilia RSV4, thus completing the Aprilia team that will race in the 2009 Superbike World Championship.
The Japanese rider signed a contract that ties him to Aprilia for the whole of the next season with an option for 2010.
Born in Chiba on Oct. 10, 1977, Nakano is a pilot of great experience who can boast 10 seasons in the World Championship: two in 250cc - the category in which he was vice-champion of the world in 2000 - one in 500cc and seven in MotoGP.
"I am happy indeed, for me it is a joy to belong to the Aprilia family," Nakano said. "Here I have found a big tradition and extraordinary competence in the races that Aprilia faces with high professionalism, and the 33 world titles won up to today are confirmation of this.
"Superbike is a new challenge. I want to risk all of my experience to help the new Aprilia RSV4 project. It will be a honour to be able to race beside Max Biaggi, he is a hero of mine and he was an inspiration to me in the first phases of my career. I am sure that together we will succeed in developing the best motorbike and to already get good results in the season 2009."
Shinya Nakano has signed up to join Max Biaggi on the Aprilia RSV4, thus completing the Aprilia team that will race in the 2009 Superbike World Championship.
The Japanese rider signed a contract that ties him to Aprilia for the whole of the next season with an option for 2010.
Born in Chiba on Oct. 10, 1977, Nakano is a pilot of great experience who can boast 10 seasons in the World Championship: two in 250cc - the category in which he was vice-champion of the world in 2000 - one in 500cc and seven in MotoGP.
"I am happy indeed, for me it is a joy to belong to the Aprilia family," Nakano said. "Here I have found a big tradition and extraordinary competence in the races that Aprilia faces with high professionalism, and the 33 world titles won up to today are confirmation of this.
"Superbike is a new challenge. I want to risk all of my experience to help the new Aprilia RSV4 project. It will be a honour to be able to race beside Max Biaggi, he is a hero of mine and he was an inspiration to me in the first phases of my career. I am sure that together we will succeed in developing the best motorbike and to already get good results in the season 2009."
Rea makes World Superbike debut
From worldsbk.com
Jonathan Rea will make his World Superbike debut this weekend as the HANNspree Ten Kate Honda team heads to the final round of the 2008 championship at Portimao in Portugal.
The 21-year-old will race the Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR at the brand new, 4km Portimao circuit, which is hosting its first race meeting this weekend, following recent homologation by the FIM.
Meanwhile, Kenan Sofuoglu will return to the Supersport garage at Portimao to race alongside newly-crowned World Supersport champion Andrew Pitt, who secured the 2008 title - his second and the team's seventh - at the last round at Magny-Cours in France.
"It's going to be quite different from riding the Supersport bike and I'm really, really happy to get this chance, although I'm sad not to be able to finish off the year with my Supersport crew," declared Rea. "They've been brilliant all season and I really wanted to win the title for them.
"If everything clicks and I can ride to my potential, there's no reason why I shouldn't be near the front. Portimao is new to everyone, but everyone has also had all season to get their bikes working how they want, so I know how hard it's going to be. The first session on Friday will be just getting comfortable on the bike so I don't expect anything spectacular then. But I'll be aiming for Superpole and looking to score points in both races."
Jonathan Rea will make his World Superbike debut this weekend as the HANNspree Ten Kate Honda team heads to the final round of the 2008 championship at Portimao in Portugal.
The 21-year-old will race the Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR at the brand new, 4km Portimao circuit, which is hosting its first race meeting this weekend, following recent homologation by the FIM.
Meanwhile, Kenan Sofuoglu will return to the Supersport garage at Portimao to race alongside newly-crowned World Supersport champion Andrew Pitt, who secured the 2008 title - his second and the team's seventh - at the last round at Magny-Cours in France.
"It's going to be quite different from riding the Supersport bike and I'm really, really happy to get this chance, although I'm sad not to be able to finish off the year with my Supersport crew," declared Rea. "They've been brilliant all season and I really wanted to win the title for them.
"If everything clicks and I can ride to my potential, there's no reason why I shouldn't be near the front. Portimao is new to everyone, but everyone has also had all season to get their bikes working how they want, so I know how hard it's going to be. The first session on Friday will be just getting comfortable on the bike so I don't expect anything spectacular then. But I'll be aiming for Superpole and looking to score points in both races."
Seven halls for SUPERSHOW
From SUPERSHOW Events
TORONTO, ON – The North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW returns to Toronto's International Centre at 6900 Airport Road Jan. 2–4, 2009. North America’s largest and most comprehensive motorcycle show, presented by Mantha Insurance, has something for every type of rider in its seven themed halls housing all aspects of motorcycling.
Hall 1 and 2, sponsored by Mill St. Brewery, are designated the Touring & Cruiser Halls, featuring the expanded Road Riders Marketplace, with vendors selling everything from helmets and riding gear for all members of the family to GPS systems and touring luggage.
This area is also the meeting place for touring and cruiser enthusiasts, featuring displays from riding clubs and associations and the Touring & Cruiser Stage with ongoing seminars, travel presentations and the MAX Awards for Riders.
The main Industry Showcase Halls are found in Hall 3 and 3A, focusing on over 20 manufacturers’ brands of the new 2009 motorcycles. The feature Marque of this year’s Show is the 2009 Harley-Davidsons in the Dealer Displays.
Hall 3 features new product unveilings and all the latest aftermarket products. New riders will appreciate the readily available information from Rider Training Schools, insurance representatives, and dealer advice on all aspects of getting into motorcycling including licencing, safety gear, and basic motorcycle maintenance. The Scooter marketplace is an expanding area in the Show.
A big feature of Hall 3A is the Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader. As the main entrance to the SUPERSHOW, Hall 3 is a great place to start your tour.
Hall 4 is the Racing and Performance Hall, sponsored by Royal Distributing, with all things related to sport bikes and off-road bikes and the people who ride or race them. With features such as the Racers Stage, MX ‘Stars of the Tomorrow’ display; racing clubs, associations and racetracks; the MAX Awards for Racers; and racer interview and autograph sessions, Hall 4 will make for an exciting weekend for race fans or riders shopping for high performance equipment.
The Vintage and Classic Hall 4A features the very popular ‘Century of Motorcycles’ display. Each year 50 motorcycles are hand-picked to get the red carpet treatment as they represent the evolution of the motorcycle over the past 100 years. Also in Hall 4A are vintage and marque clubs, individual showbikes, vendors specializing in antique motorcycle parts and services, and the newest feature for Hall 4A is the popular Vintage and Classic Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader.
Hall 5, the Chopper and Custom Bike Hall, sponsored by J & P Cycles, features custom bikes from all over North America competing for the $50,000 jackpot and top prizes in the Canada Cup Championships. In addition to Canada’s largest display of custom bikes chopper fans will find custom painters and suppliers of specialty parts. A busy new area is the Choppers & Customs Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader.
TORONTO, ON – The North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW returns to Toronto's International Centre at 6900 Airport Road Jan. 2–4, 2009. North America’s largest and most comprehensive motorcycle show, presented by Mantha Insurance, has something for every type of rider in its seven themed halls housing all aspects of motorcycling.
Hall 1 and 2, sponsored by Mill St. Brewery, are designated the Touring & Cruiser Halls, featuring the expanded Road Riders Marketplace, with vendors selling everything from helmets and riding gear for all members of the family to GPS systems and touring luggage.
This area is also the meeting place for touring and cruiser enthusiasts, featuring displays from riding clubs and associations and the Touring & Cruiser Stage with ongoing seminars, travel presentations and the MAX Awards for Riders.
The main Industry Showcase Halls are found in Hall 3 and 3A, focusing on over 20 manufacturers’ brands of the new 2009 motorcycles. The feature Marque of this year’s Show is the 2009 Harley-Davidsons in the Dealer Displays.
Hall 3 features new product unveilings and all the latest aftermarket products. New riders will appreciate the readily available information from Rider Training Schools, insurance representatives, and dealer advice on all aspects of getting into motorcycling including licencing, safety gear, and basic motorcycle maintenance. The Scooter marketplace is an expanding area in the Show.
A big feature of Hall 3A is the Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader. As the main entrance to the SUPERSHOW, Hall 3 is a great place to start your tour.
Hall 4 is the Racing and Performance Hall, sponsored by Royal Distributing, with all things related to sport bikes and off-road bikes and the people who ride or race them. With features such as the Racers Stage, MX ‘Stars of the Tomorrow’ display; racing clubs, associations and racetracks; the MAX Awards for Racers; and racer interview and autograph sessions, Hall 4 will make for an exciting weekend for race fans or riders shopping for high performance equipment.
The Vintage and Classic Hall 4A features the very popular ‘Century of Motorcycles’ display. Each year 50 motorcycles are hand-picked to get the red carpet treatment as they represent the evolution of the motorcycle over the past 100 years. Also in Hall 4A are vintage and marque clubs, individual showbikes, vendors specializing in antique motorcycle parts and services, and the newest feature for Hall 4A is the popular Vintage and Classic Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader.
Hall 5, the Chopper and Custom Bike Hall, sponsored by J & P Cycles, features custom bikes from all over North America competing for the $50,000 jackpot and top prizes in the Canada Cup Championships. In addition to Canada’s largest display of custom bikes chopper fans will find custom painters and suppliers of specialty parts. A busy new area is the Choppers & Customs Used Bike Market sponsored by the Bike, Boat & RV Trader.
I've come a long way
I was rummaging through some photos, and saw a picture of a motorcycle tank and fenders that I painted when I was at Tech school for auto body, and paint way back in 1991.
I did my very first Harley Davidson custom paint job for a guy who was going through the heavy equipment mechanics class next door to the Auto Body Shop class. He had a 1200 Sportster that he got a new tank for, and wanted a color change on tank and fenders to match "with a twist" of something not completely stock looking. This is what I gave him for I think about $300.00, which included materials.
Most of you who follow my blog regularly have already seen pictures of my bike, but for those who have not, for comparison sake, I posted a couple of pics of my most recent custom paint job which is on my bike. What a difference 17 1/2 years can make. I think if I would have stuck with this professionally I'd be better, but I would hate it, or at least my love for doing a custom paint job would be reduced to "it's a job". At least it's a decent paying hobby this way. I got no complaints.
I did my very first Harley Davidson custom paint job for a guy who was going through the heavy equipment mechanics class next door to the Auto Body Shop class. He had a 1200 Sportster that he got a new tank for, and wanted a color change on tank and fenders to match "with a twist" of something not completely stock looking. This is what I gave him for I think about $300.00, which included materials.
Most of you who follow my blog regularly have already seen pictures of my bike, but for those who have not, for comparison sake, I posted a couple of pics of my most recent custom paint job which is on my bike. What a difference 17 1/2 years can make. I think if I would have stuck with this professionally I'd be better, but I would hate it, or at least my love for doing a custom paint job would be reduced to "it's a job". At least it's a decent paying hobby this way. I got no complaints.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Alligator back on Enduro schedule
From the American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, OH -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced the 2009 schedule for the AMA National Enduro Championship Series. In addition to two new venues, next year's schedule welcomes the historic Alligator Enduro back to the national calendar.
"We're very excited about the 2009 schedule," said AMA Off-Road Director Chuck Weir. "We worked very closely with the National Enduro Promoters Group to put together a program that offers our racers and fans variety, exposure and, of course, the challenging terrain and great riding that they demand."
This year's championship will begin on Jan. 25 in the Manchester State Forest near Wedgefield, SC. The 10-round championship will culminate on Oct. 4 in Upland, IN.
One highlight is the return of the famed Alligator Enduro to the National Enduro Championship Series. Although the Alligator Enduro has long been an AMA Sports-sanctioned event, in recent years it has not been a national. For 2009, the historic event will once again help crown the national enduro class champions.
The 2009 Alligator Enduro takes place on March 5 off Tomoka Farms Rd., just south of International Speedway Blvd. in Daytona Beach, FL.
The two new stops on the calendar include the June 21 race in Upton, WY and the June 28 race at the Bull Run Guest Ranch near Great Falls, MT.
Series Schedule
Round 1, Jan. 25, Manchester State Forest, Wedgefield, SC
Round 2, Feb. 22, Greensboro, GA
Round 3, March 5, Alligator Enduro, Daytona Beach, FL
Round 4, March 29, Kisatchie Nat. Forest, Forest Hill, LA
Round 5, April 26, West Point, TN
Round 6, June 21, Upton, WY
Round 7, June 28, Bull Run Guest Ranch, MT
Round 8, July 19, Blain Picnic Grounds, Blain, PA
Round 9, Aug. 9, Marquette, MI
Round 10, Oct. 4, Upland Lions Club, Upland, IN
PICKERINGTON, OH -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced the 2009 schedule for the AMA National Enduro Championship Series. In addition to two new venues, next year's schedule welcomes the historic Alligator Enduro back to the national calendar.
"We're very excited about the 2009 schedule," said AMA Off-Road Director Chuck Weir. "We worked very closely with the National Enduro Promoters Group to put together a program that offers our racers and fans variety, exposure and, of course, the challenging terrain and great riding that they demand."
This year's championship will begin on Jan. 25 in the Manchester State Forest near Wedgefield, SC. The 10-round championship will culminate on Oct. 4 in Upland, IN.
One highlight is the return of the famed Alligator Enduro to the National Enduro Championship Series. Although the Alligator Enduro has long been an AMA Sports-sanctioned event, in recent years it has not been a national. For 2009, the historic event will once again help crown the national enduro class champions.
The 2009 Alligator Enduro takes place on March 5 off Tomoka Farms Rd., just south of International Speedway Blvd. in Daytona Beach, FL.
The two new stops on the calendar include the June 21 race in Upton, WY and the June 28 race at the Bull Run Guest Ranch near Great Falls, MT.
Series Schedule
Round 1, Jan. 25, Manchester State Forest, Wedgefield, SC
Round 2, Feb. 22, Greensboro, GA
Round 3, March 5, Alligator Enduro, Daytona Beach, FL
Round 4, March 29, Kisatchie Nat. Forest, Forest Hill, LA
Round 5, April 26, West Point, TN
Round 6, June 21, Upton, WY
Round 7, June 28, Bull Run Guest Ranch, MT
Round 8, July 19, Blain Picnic Grounds, Blain, PA
Round 9, Aug. 9, Marquette, MI
Round 10, Oct. 4, Upland Lions Club, Upland, IN
Son's of Anarchy Episode 9 review
I have a few questions; things I was thinking about....
Was Clays decision to Allie with the Myans a good choice?
What's going to happen when the revenge for the hit takes place?
What's gonna happen with this new relationship with Jax and Tara?
To what level will Gemma interfere (more than she already has)?
Will they find the body Jax dumped? Where did he dump it?
What's going to happen with Opie and his family?
Will he ultimately choose the club over his family?
Is Clay going to find out Opie didn't do the hit?
If so will he freak the F' out?
Things that make you go Hmmmmmmm.
Guess we'll have to keep watching to find out.
Darn!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
emmissions, global warming, and our carbon foot print as bikers
I am a believer in global warming. I used to not be one until recently watching a show on it. I went on the theory that I live in Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes. It did not become the land of 10,000 lakes for no reason. It is from being carved out from glaciers, and the pooling up of water was originally, and some still is glacial. They have been tracking "global warming" since the beginning of the ice age melting. Look at Glacier National Park in Montana. They have been measuring the shrinkage of glaciers for I think decades.
Anyway the fact is global warming HAS been going on for a very long time, BUT it is extremely accelerated now with our usage of fossil fuels, and believe it or not "COWS"! We'll get to the cows in a minute.
Have you ever heard the term "carbon footprint"? Global warming is not caused from the heat from our emissions, but rather from the carbon dioxide left behind after we burn it. When we burn fossil fuels, the emission that is left behind is carbon dioxide. The build up of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere only allows "some, not all" of the heat coming in to the atmosphere to leave, thus causing a gradual buildup of heat. I'm not going to go into all the details of what can and will happen if we continue on the path we are already on. That is another lesson. Google it for more info. (If you don't already know the consequences, I SERIOUSLY HOPE YOU DO GOOGLE IT.)
O.K. back to the cows.
The emissions, or the carbon dioxide that comes out of cows rear ends is approximately three times the carbon dioxide created by the entire worlds burning of fossil fuels!
That's right you read it correctly. Just by requiring farmers to change the cows diets to make them less gassy, we could hugely reduce our carbon footprint. I heard on the special I watched that garlic introduced
into their diet would help greatly. We can also help by reducing the amount of beef we consume, thus lowering the demand for so much cattle raising.
I often think about global warming. I wonder what will happen when and if we ever convert all of our fossil fuel burning engines into something different. Will motorcycles follow? What will they sound like. There is a mystique to the rubble of a V-twin engine under you. I would certainly miss this. Will it happen in my lifetime? Will I have to resort to putting playing cards in my spokes with a clothespin like I did as a child?
Anyway the fact is global warming HAS been going on for a very long time, BUT it is extremely accelerated now with our usage of fossil fuels, and believe it or not "COWS"! We'll get to the cows in a minute.
Have you ever heard the term "carbon footprint"? Global warming is not caused from the heat from our emissions, but rather from the carbon dioxide left behind after we burn it. When we burn fossil fuels, the emission that is left behind is carbon dioxide. The build up of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere only allows "some, not all" of the heat coming in to the atmosphere to leave, thus causing a gradual buildup of heat. I'm not going to go into all the details of what can and will happen if we continue on the path we are already on. That is another lesson. Google it for more info. (If you don't already know the consequences, I SERIOUSLY HOPE YOU DO GOOGLE IT.)
O.K. back to the cows.
The emissions, or the carbon dioxide that comes out of cows rear ends is approximately three times the carbon dioxide created by the entire worlds burning of fossil fuels!
That's right you read it correctly. Just by requiring farmers to change the cows diets to make them less gassy, we could hugely reduce our carbon footprint. I heard on the special I watched that garlic introduced
into their diet would help greatly. We can also help by reducing the amount of beef we consume, thus lowering the demand for so much cattle raising.
I often think about global warming. I wonder what will happen when and if we ever convert all of our fossil fuel burning engines into something different. Will motorcycles follow? What will they sound like. There is a mystique to the rubble of a V-twin engine under you. I would certainly miss this. Will it happen in my lifetime? Will I have to resort to putting playing cards in my spokes with a clothespin like I did as a child?
Coolbeth nominated for Athlete of the Year
From the American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, OH -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that newly crowned 2008 AMA Grand National Twins Champion Kenny Coolbeth is one of five nominees for the 2008 AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award.
The winner will be announced Nov. 23 at the 2008 AMA Pro Racing Awards Banquet at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds, AL.
Dating back to 1976, the AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award is the highest honour bestowed on a professional motorcycle racer competing in AMA events. Past recipients of the award include such legendary names as Bob Hannah, Scott Parker, Kenny Roberts and Ricky Carmichael.
Coolbeth, from Morris, CT, earned his nomination by successfully defending his No. 1 plate in the AMA Flat Track Championship, where he claimed the GNC Twins title for the third year in a row. Coolbeth clinched the title at the Monticello, NY half-mile with two more events remaining on the calendar. Coolbeth won six races on the year and had four more podium finishes.
"It's an honour to have your name put out there," Coolbeth said. "There are a lot of great athletes who race motorcycles, and I feel honoured to stand up there with them. It would be really cool to win the award, and, if not, it's still a big accomplishment for me just to get nominated."
This is the second time Coolbeth has been nominated for the AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award. In addition to the 2006 and 2007 AMA GNC Twins titles, he also won the 2007 AMA GNC Singles title. Coolbeth turned Pro in 1993.
PICKERINGTON, OH -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that newly crowned 2008 AMA Grand National Twins Champion Kenny Coolbeth is one of five nominees for the 2008 AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award.
The winner will be announced Nov. 23 at the 2008 AMA Pro Racing Awards Banquet at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds, AL.
Dating back to 1976, the AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award is the highest honour bestowed on a professional motorcycle racer competing in AMA events. Past recipients of the award include such legendary names as Bob Hannah, Scott Parker, Kenny Roberts and Ricky Carmichael.
Coolbeth, from Morris, CT, earned his nomination by successfully defending his No. 1 plate in the AMA Flat Track Championship, where he claimed the GNC Twins title for the third year in a row. Coolbeth clinched the title at the Monticello, NY half-mile with two more events remaining on the calendar. Coolbeth won six races on the year and had four more podium finishes.
"It's an honour to have your name put out there," Coolbeth said. "There are a lot of great athletes who race motorcycles, and I feel honoured to stand up there with them. It would be really cool to win the award, and, if not, it's still a big accomplishment for me just to get nominated."
This is the second time Coolbeth has been nominated for the AMA SPEED Athlete of the Year award. In addition to the 2006 and 2007 AMA GNC Twins titles, he also won the 2007 AMA GNC Singles title. Coolbeth turned Pro in 1993.
New motorcycle safety cartoons
Well at last a positive move to improve motorcycle safety using humour as the medium. In a new Europe wide road safety campaign developed by the Association des Constructeurs Europeens de Motorcycles (ACEM) 13 cartoons will be released on a monthly basis to highlight and educate about the everyday risks riders of powered two wheelers (PTWs) face.
The aim of the campaign is to raise riders awareness of the various risks posed by road layouts and traffic sitautions.
Lucky 13 is a motorcyclist and is the main star of the cartoons. Like many others he is on the road every day. He’s also a lucky guy. He doesn’t know that the roadway isn’t always a safe place to ride his motorcycle, yet some how he pulls through every time. Don’t be like him, don’t count on your luck like he does. And learn from his mistakes.
The first cartoon is entitled "How to Avoid Accidents at Junctions" - see cartoon below.
You can download the cartoon for yourself from http://www.acem.eu/cartoon.
Well done the the ACEM, hopefully these cartoons will leading to greater awareness of the risks involved in riding a motorcycle, scooter or moped!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
The aim of the campaign is to raise riders awareness of the various risks posed by road layouts and traffic sitautions.
Lucky 13 is a motorcyclist and is the main star of the cartoons. Like many others he is on the road every day. He’s also a lucky guy. He doesn’t know that the roadway isn’t always a safe place to ride his motorcycle, yet some how he pulls through every time. Don’t be like him, don’t count on your luck like he does. And learn from his mistakes.
The first cartoon is entitled "How to Avoid Accidents at Junctions" - see cartoon below.
You can download the cartoon for yourself from http://www.acem.eu/cartoon.
Well done the the ACEM, hopefully these cartoons will leading to greater awareness of the risks involved in riding a motorcycle, scooter or moped!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
Extended Warranty Cover for your Motorbike
Thought you'd like to know that Warranty Direct, the UK's leading provider of direct consumer warranties is now offering extended mechanical breakdown insurance for motorcycle owners.
The cover is known as Bike Warranty and is very extensive covering everything from crank failure to dropped valves, suspension compliance to electrical system failure. However the unique feature of the cover is it breaks the mould by covering wear and tear, most often excluded under warranty policies.
Cover applies across the Continent and can cover motorbikes up to eight years old and 80,000 miles. Further there are not restrictions on where the bike is repaired, apparently you can choose a franchised dealer, independent garage or specialist.
The cover is known as Bike Warranty and is very extensive covering everything from crank failure to dropped valves, suspension compliance to electrical system failure. However the unique feature of the cover is it breaks the mould by covering wear and tear, most often excluded under warranty policies.
Cover applies across the Continent and can cover motorbikes up to eight years old and 80,000 miles. Further there are not restrictions on where the bike is repaired, apparently you can choose a franchised dealer, independent garage or specialist.
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Rain shortens Valencia test
From motogp.com
There was far less action on Tuesday at the post-Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana test than there was on Monday, due to the wet conditions on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, with new Ducati man Nicky Hayden the fastest of the seven riders who rode through the rain.
Hayden's time of 1:48.287 on the last of his 20 laps put him ahead of Italians Andrea Dovizioso and Marco Melandri on a shortened timesheet, with no action on track before 3pm. Hayden was typically the last rider remaining on track at the end of the session at 5pm and returned to the Ducati pit-box to the applause of both sides of the garage.
Keen to get more miles on the clock with their new teams despite the conditions Hayden, alongside Repsol Honda's Dovizioso (18 laps), Kawasaki's Melandri (26 laps), San Carlo Honda Gresini's Toni Elias (16 laps) and Alice Team pair Niccolo Canepa (25 laps) and Mika Kallio (26 laps) showed their commitment with outings on their new Bridgestone rain tires.
However, many of MotoGP's biggest names who were scheduled to make an appearance finally elected not to test, with 2008's top four riders Valentino Rossi (Fiat Yamaha), Casey Stoner (Ducati Marlboro) Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda) and Jorge Lorenzo (Fiat Yamaha) choosing not to get their leathers wet again at the end of a rain-sodden season.
Further MotoGP tests will take place next month at Phillip Island in Australia and Jerez in soutern Spain.
Day Two Results
1. N. Hayden, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:48.287
2. A. Dovizioso, Repsol Honda - 1:48.296
3. M. Melandri, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:48.786
4. N. Canepa, Alice Team - 1:49.917
5. M. Kallio, Alice Team - 1:50.275
6. T. Elias, Team San Carlo - 1:54.057
7. L. Capirossi, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:57.322
There was far less action on Tuesday at the post-Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana test than there was on Monday, due to the wet conditions on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, with new Ducati man Nicky Hayden the fastest of the seven riders who rode through the rain.
Hayden's time of 1:48.287 on the last of his 20 laps put him ahead of Italians Andrea Dovizioso and Marco Melandri on a shortened timesheet, with no action on track before 3pm. Hayden was typically the last rider remaining on track at the end of the session at 5pm and returned to the Ducati pit-box to the applause of both sides of the garage.
Keen to get more miles on the clock with their new teams despite the conditions Hayden, alongside Repsol Honda's Dovizioso (18 laps), Kawasaki's Melandri (26 laps), San Carlo Honda Gresini's Toni Elias (16 laps) and Alice Team pair Niccolo Canepa (25 laps) and Mika Kallio (26 laps) showed their commitment with outings on their new Bridgestone rain tires.
However, many of MotoGP's biggest names who were scheduled to make an appearance finally elected not to test, with 2008's top four riders Valentino Rossi (Fiat Yamaha), Casey Stoner (Ducati Marlboro) Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda) and Jorge Lorenzo (Fiat Yamaha) choosing not to get their leathers wet again at the end of a rain-sodden season.
Further MotoGP tests will take place next month at Phillip Island in Australia and Jerez in soutern Spain.
Day Two Results
1. N. Hayden, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:48.287
2. A. Dovizioso, Repsol Honda - 1:48.296
3. M. Melandri, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:48.786
4. N. Canepa, Alice Team - 1:49.917
5. M. Kallio, Alice Team - 1:50.275
6. T. Elias, Team San Carlo - 1:54.057
7. L. Capirossi, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:57.322
Kanney wins GNCC finale
From KTM Racing
CRAWFORDSVILLE, IN -- Red Bull KTM Factory rider Nate Kanney won his first race of the season at the Ironman GNCC Finale last weekend.
Kanney had a great start rounding the first turn in fifth. Within the first three miles he had easily worked his way into the lead. Once Kanney took over the lead, he pulled away and never looked back.
"It was easier passing for the lead than I expected because the top five guys kept my line open each time I started closing in on them," commented Kanney. "I was really happy with my ride today. The track conditions were perfect and I only had one run-in with a lapper that set me back a few seconds. All in all, it was a great day and I am happy to reward the team with a win at the final round of the season."
Kanney will now head to Japan where he will compete in a round of the Japanese cross-country series for the first time in his career.
Results
1. Nathan Kanney KTM
2. Charles Mullins Suzuki
3. Thaddeus Duvall Yamaha
4. Barry Hawk Yamaha
5. Paul Whibley Suzuki
Final Standings
1. David Knight KTM 286
2. Paul Whibley Suzuki 267
3. Joshua Strang Suzuki 247
4. Nathan Kanney KTM 242
5. Charles Mullins Suzuki 221
6. Jim Jarrett Suzuki 186
7. Glenn Kearney Husqvarna 171
8. Jason Raines Yamaha 162
9. Jesse Robinson Kawasaki 142
10. Barry Hawk Yamaha 132
CRAWFORDSVILLE, IN -- Red Bull KTM Factory rider Nate Kanney won his first race of the season at the Ironman GNCC Finale last weekend.
Kanney had a great start rounding the first turn in fifth. Within the first three miles he had easily worked his way into the lead. Once Kanney took over the lead, he pulled away and never looked back.
"It was easier passing for the lead than I expected because the top five guys kept my line open each time I started closing in on them," commented Kanney. "I was really happy with my ride today. The track conditions were perfect and I only had one run-in with a lapper that set me back a few seconds. All in all, it was a great day and I am happy to reward the team with a win at the final round of the season."
Kanney will now head to Japan where he will compete in a round of the Japanese cross-country series for the first time in his career.
Results
1. Nathan Kanney KTM
2. Charles Mullins Suzuki
3. Thaddeus Duvall Yamaha
4. Barry Hawk Yamaha
5. Paul Whibley Suzuki
Final Standings
1. David Knight KTM 286
2. Paul Whibley Suzuki 267
3. Joshua Strang Suzuki 247
4. Nathan Kanney KTM 242
5. Charles Mullins Suzuki 221
6. Jim Jarrett Suzuki 186
7. Glenn Kearney Husqvarna 171
8. Jason Raines Yamaha 162
9. Jesse Robinson Kawasaki 142
10. Barry Hawk Yamaha 132
Suzuki to show Gladius and GSX-R100 at NEC Bike Show
Suzuki have annonced they will be showing the new 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000 sportsbike and the Suzuki Gladius 650 at the forthcoming 2008 Carole Mash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.
The 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is lighter,sharper and more powerful than the previous model whilst the Suzuki Gladius 650 is Suzuki's new European styled middleweight, being a reworked version of the popular SV650.
Suzuki will also show a host of racing bikes form the 2008 season from MotoGP, World Superbike, British Superbike, Isle of Man TT and off-road championships.
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
By Any Means DVD released on 3rd November
Charley Boorman's latests adventure "By Any Means" is about to be released on DVD by Universal Pictures. Featuring both seasoned adventurer Charley Boorman and Russ Malkin as director and expedition leader, the DVD charts their Ireland to Sydney adventure by any means.
Featuring up to 100 types of transport, motorbikes again play a major role.
Maybe one of the Christmas list?
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
Monday, October 27, 2008
Stoner leads Valencia test
From motogp.com
The top three times in Monday's post-race test activity at Valencia went to the podium trio from the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valencia, but the main attention of the day was focused on new riders and new rides.
Casey Stoner was the quickest man in the first of two days of MotoGP testing following the season finale, and both he and raceday rival Dani Pedrosa set their fastest laps of the day before 2pm. The Ducati rider clocked a time of 1:32.464 to end the day atop the timesheet, with Pedrosa two-tenths of a second down.
Stoner and Pedrosa were sharing the spotlight in their respective garages, with two of the most eagerly-awaited switches for the 2009 season taking place just metres from the Sunday stars. Stoner was joined in the Ducati garage by Nicky Hayden for the first time as both tested the Desmosedici GP9, Hayden's decked out in a 'Stars & Stripes' livery for the occasion. The newcomer to the Italian factory recorded a best lap of 1:33.960 on a day in which acclimatisation was the main objective.
His replacement in Repsol Honda, Andrea Dovizioso, was eighth quickest in his initial encounter with the pneumatic valve RC212V.
After a hard season and Sunday evening at the annual FIM Awards, Valentino Rossi was in no hurry to get back to work on Monday. The 2008 MotoGP World Champion was the last rider to appear on track, testing the new Yamaha M1 from 3pm onwards. He joined rivals Stoner and Pedrosa in the elite group of riders to go round in under 1:33.
Teammate Jorge Lorenzo was also in action, although his troubles at Valencia continued with an afternoon crash. The Spaniard was unhurt in the fall from his 2009 bike.
Home representation was bumped up by the reappearance of Sete Gibernau, riding a Ducati Desmosedici GP8 for the Onde 2000 team. The former World Championship runner up put in a best lap of 1:34.451 as he got reacquainted with the Valencia track and some old foes.
Also riding the 2008 Ducati machines were Niccolo Canepa and Mika Kallio in their first appearances as MotoGP riders, whilst fellow debutant Yuki Takahashi rode his maiden 800cc laps with the JiR Team Scot Honda.
Marco Melandri and Toni Elias both improved on their weekend times in their first encounters with the factory spec Kawasaki and Honda machines, respectively.
Testing continues on Tuesday, with the teams using the remainder of their six sets of tires per rider. Bridgestone provided medium and hard compounds for their debut test as single tire supplier.
Day One Official Times
1. Casey Stoner, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:32.464
2. Dani Pedrosa, Repsol Honda - 1:32.672
3. Valentino Rossi, Fiat Yamaha Team - 1:32.921
4. Chris Vermeulen, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:33.142
5. Loris Capirossi, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:33.325
6. Alex De Angelis, San Carlo Honda Gresini - 1:33.375
7. Jorge Lorenzo, Fiat Yamaha Team - 1:33.550
8. Andrea Dovizioso, Repsol Honda - 1:33.676
9. John Hopkins, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:33.760
10. Marco Melandri, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:33.782
11. Randy De Puniet, LCR Honda MotoGP - 1:33.832
12. Nicky Hayden, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:33.960
13. Toni Elias, San Carlo Honda Gresini - 1:34.129
14. Sete Gibernau, Onde 2000 Ducati - 1:34.451
15. Mika Kallio, Alice Team - 1:34.793
16. Olivier Jacque, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:34.925
17. Niccolo Canepa, Alice Team - 1:34.995
18. Yuki Takahashi, JiR Team Scot Honda - 1:35.203
The top three times in Monday's post-race test activity at Valencia went to the podium trio from the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valencia, but the main attention of the day was focused on new riders and new rides.
Casey Stoner was the quickest man in the first of two days of MotoGP testing following the season finale, and both he and raceday rival Dani Pedrosa set their fastest laps of the day before 2pm. The Ducati rider clocked a time of 1:32.464 to end the day atop the timesheet, with Pedrosa two-tenths of a second down.
Stoner and Pedrosa were sharing the spotlight in their respective garages, with two of the most eagerly-awaited switches for the 2009 season taking place just metres from the Sunday stars. Stoner was joined in the Ducati garage by Nicky Hayden for the first time as both tested the Desmosedici GP9, Hayden's decked out in a 'Stars & Stripes' livery for the occasion. The newcomer to the Italian factory recorded a best lap of 1:33.960 on a day in which acclimatisation was the main objective.
His replacement in Repsol Honda, Andrea Dovizioso, was eighth quickest in his initial encounter with the pneumatic valve RC212V.
After a hard season and Sunday evening at the annual FIM Awards, Valentino Rossi was in no hurry to get back to work on Monday. The 2008 MotoGP World Champion was the last rider to appear on track, testing the new Yamaha M1 from 3pm onwards. He joined rivals Stoner and Pedrosa in the elite group of riders to go round in under 1:33.
Teammate Jorge Lorenzo was also in action, although his troubles at Valencia continued with an afternoon crash. The Spaniard was unhurt in the fall from his 2009 bike.
Home representation was bumped up by the reappearance of Sete Gibernau, riding a Ducati Desmosedici GP8 for the Onde 2000 team. The former World Championship runner up put in a best lap of 1:34.451 as he got reacquainted with the Valencia track and some old foes.
Also riding the 2008 Ducati machines were Niccolo Canepa and Mika Kallio in their first appearances as MotoGP riders, whilst fellow debutant Yuki Takahashi rode his maiden 800cc laps with the JiR Team Scot Honda.
Marco Melandri and Toni Elias both improved on their weekend times in their first encounters with the factory spec Kawasaki and Honda machines, respectively.
Testing continues on Tuesday, with the teams using the remainder of their six sets of tires per rider. Bridgestone provided medium and hard compounds for their debut test as single tire supplier.
Day One Official Times
1. Casey Stoner, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:32.464
2. Dani Pedrosa, Repsol Honda - 1:32.672
3. Valentino Rossi, Fiat Yamaha Team - 1:32.921
4. Chris Vermeulen, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:33.142
5. Loris Capirossi, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP - 1:33.325
6. Alex De Angelis, San Carlo Honda Gresini - 1:33.375
7. Jorge Lorenzo, Fiat Yamaha Team - 1:33.550
8. Andrea Dovizioso, Repsol Honda - 1:33.676
9. John Hopkins, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:33.760
10. Marco Melandri, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:33.782
11. Randy De Puniet, LCR Honda MotoGP - 1:33.832
12. Nicky Hayden, Ducati Marlboro Team - 1:33.960
13. Toni Elias, San Carlo Honda Gresini - 1:34.129
14. Sete Gibernau, Onde 2000 Ducati - 1:34.451
15. Mika Kallio, Alice Team - 1:34.793
16. Olivier Jacque, Kawasaki Racing Team - 1:34.925
17. Niccolo Canepa, Alice Team - 1:34.995
18. Yuki Takahashi, JiR Team Scot Honda - 1:35.203
Motorcycle stars try sports cars
From Daytona International Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Motorcycle stars Ricky Carmichael, Scott Russell and Jason Pridmore were at Daytona International Speedway on Monday – on four wheels.
The motorcycle legends were shaking down a Spirit of Daytona Racing Coyote-Porsche Daytona Prototype during the first day of a three-day October Test Days session in preparation for a potential run in the 47th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona sports car classic on Jan. 24-25.
More than 20 sports cars were turning laps on the 3.56-mile road course as part of a three-day test that will include two evening sessions. For Russell and Carmichael, it was their second sports car test at DIS while for Pridmore, it was his first.
All three motorcycle stars have been testing at other road course facilities as they look to make an attempt to compete in the upcoming Rolex 24, the grueling and challenging twice-around-the-clock challenge.
Russell, whose nickname is “Mr. Daytona,” is a five-time Daytona 200 By Honda winner, a record that he shares with Miguel Duhamel.
“This is one of my favourite races to come watch,” Russell said. “For years, I just thought how cool it would be to be out there. To have the opportunity is just amazing for me. I pinched myself everyday to make sure this is real.”
Carmichael, who has retired from Supercross and is now pursuing a NASCAR career, is a record five-time Daytona Supercross By Honda winner and is nicknamed G.O.A.T – the Greatest Of All Time.
“It’s neat to be here and see it from this angle,” Carmichael said. “I’ve been around the motorcycle stuff for so long. This is a racer’s heaven for sure. It’s awesome to be able to have done it on a motorcycle, do it on a Daytona Prototype and next on the list is a stock car.”
Jason Pridmore anchors the trio of motorcycle champions with two 750 Supersport victories at Daytona.
“It’s exciting because we’re all nervous,” Pridmore said. “We’re all scared. I don’t think any of us will lie to you. We’re all a little bit nervous for what we’re getting ourselves into. There’s a lot of respect for the guys that do this full time.”
All three riders are being tutored by sports car veteran Guy Cosmo for the potential Rolex 24 start. Having Cosmo showing them the ins and outs of sports car racing at DIS has been a huge asset for Carmichael, Russell and Pridmore.
This is the first of three off-season tests for the Rolex Series at Daytona. Teams will test with 2009 tires Nov. 11-12. A star-studded lineup is expected for the Jan. 2-4 session, the last major session prior to the 2009 season-opening Rolex 24 At Daytona.
This week’s three-day session will continue through Wednesday.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Motorcycle stars Ricky Carmichael, Scott Russell and Jason Pridmore were at Daytona International Speedway on Monday – on four wheels.
The motorcycle legends were shaking down a Spirit of Daytona Racing Coyote-Porsche Daytona Prototype during the first day of a three-day October Test Days session in preparation for a potential run in the 47th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona sports car classic on Jan. 24-25.
More than 20 sports cars were turning laps on the 3.56-mile road course as part of a three-day test that will include two evening sessions. For Russell and Carmichael, it was their second sports car test at DIS while for Pridmore, it was his first.
All three motorcycle stars have been testing at other road course facilities as they look to make an attempt to compete in the upcoming Rolex 24, the grueling and challenging twice-around-the-clock challenge.
Russell, whose nickname is “Mr. Daytona,” is a five-time Daytona 200 By Honda winner, a record that he shares with Miguel Duhamel.
“This is one of my favourite races to come watch,” Russell said. “For years, I just thought how cool it would be to be out there. To have the opportunity is just amazing for me. I pinched myself everyday to make sure this is real.”
Carmichael, who has retired from Supercross and is now pursuing a NASCAR career, is a record five-time Daytona Supercross By Honda winner and is nicknamed G.O.A.T – the Greatest Of All Time.
“It’s neat to be here and see it from this angle,” Carmichael said. “I’ve been around the motorcycle stuff for so long. This is a racer’s heaven for sure. It’s awesome to be able to have done it on a motorcycle, do it on a Daytona Prototype and next on the list is a stock car.”
Jason Pridmore anchors the trio of motorcycle champions with two 750 Supersport victories at Daytona.
“It’s exciting because we’re all nervous,” Pridmore said. “We’re all scared. I don’t think any of us will lie to you. We’re all a little bit nervous for what we’re getting ourselves into. There’s a lot of respect for the guys that do this full time.”
All three riders are being tutored by sports car veteran Guy Cosmo for the potential Rolex 24 start. Having Cosmo showing them the ins and outs of sports car racing at DIS has been a huge asset for Carmichael, Russell and Pridmore.
This is the first of three off-season tests for the Rolex Series at Daytona. Teams will test with 2009 tires Nov. 11-12. A star-studded lineup is expected for the Jan. 2-4 session, the last major session prior to the 2009 season-opening Rolex 24 At Daytona.
This week’s three-day session will continue through Wednesday.
Motorcycle Show targets scooter crowd
From the Toronto Motorcycle Show
TORONTO, ON -- The Toronto Motorcycle Show, the Canadian motorcycle and ATV industries’ premier motorcycle, scooter and ATV event, announced on Monday new features for the show including "Scooter Central," featuring the hottest in four-stroke scooters, "Independent Alley," showcasing Canadian built and unique custom rides and a growing number of new bike models from the industry’s leading manufacturers.
Scooter sales increased over 100% between 2003 and 2008. According to the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC), an estimated 11,000 units will be sold by the end of 2008. Motorcycle and scooter sales increased over 13% during the 2008 spring/summer selling season compared to sales during this same time in 2007.
"High fuel prices make scooters and motorcycles an attractive and inexpensive alternate to gas guzzling cars and trucks and the sales numbers prove it," said Bob Ramsay, president of MMIC. "Scooter sales were up 22% from June, 2007 to June, 2008, so we know that motorcycles and scooters are here to stay."
The Toronto Motorcycle Show, one of seven Canadian motorcycle and ATV shows owned by the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC) and Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV), will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from Friday, Dec. 12 until Sunday, Dec. 14.
TORONTO, ON -- The Toronto Motorcycle Show, the Canadian motorcycle and ATV industries’ premier motorcycle, scooter and ATV event, announced on Monday new features for the show including "Scooter Central," featuring the hottest in four-stroke scooters, "Independent Alley," showcasing Canadian built and unique custom rides and a growing number of new bike models from the industry’s leading manufacturers.
Scooter sales increased over 100% between 2003 and 2008. According to the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC), an estimated 11,000 units will be sold by the end of 2008. Motorcycle and scooter sales increased over 13% during the 2008 spring/summer selling season compared to sales during this same time in 2007.
"High fuel prices make scooters and motorcycles an attractive and inexpensive alternate to gas guzzling cars and trucks and the sales numbers prove it," said Bob Ramsay, president of MMIC. "Scooter sales were up 22% from June, 2007 to June, 2008, so we know that motorcycles and scooters are here to stay."
The Toronto Motorcycle Show, one of seven Canadian motorcycle and ATV shows owned by the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC) and Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV), will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from Friday, Dec. 12 until Sunday, Dec. 14.
Boris he says "Yes!"
Finally the Mayor of London Boris Johnson has given the go ahead for motorcycles to use bus lanes in London. The BMF reporting on this today have welcomed the move.
Making this announcement today, Mr Johnson said: "I have long been staggered that while motorcyclists can use bus lanes in many other cities and some of our boroughs they were not allowed to use the TfL routes that criss-cross the capital. "One of the ways we can ease congestion is by encouraging more people to get on their bike, whether pedal or powered, and I believe they should be able to share our bus lanes successfully and safely. "
So from From 5th January motorcyclists will be able to share red route bus lanes with buses, cyclists and black taxis on an 18-month trial basis.
Well done Boris at last!!!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
Making this announcement today, Mr Johnson said: "I have long been staggered that while motorcyclists can use bus lanes in many other cities and some of our boroughs they were not allowed to use the TfL routes that criss-cross the capital. "One of the ways we can ease congestion is by encouraging more people to get on their bike, whether pedal or powered, and I believe they should be able to share our bus lanes successfully and safely. "
So from From 5th January motorcyclists will be able to share red route bus lanes with buses, cyclists and black taxis on an 18-month trial basis.
Well done Boris at last!!!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
Sunoco named official fuel of AMA
From AMA Pro Racing
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced that Sunoco has been chosen as the fuel of AMA Road Racing. Sunoco 260 GTX unleaded racing fuel, which contains no oxygenates and no metallic additives, will be used in all of the series' classes, including American Superbike, Daytona SportBike, SunTrust MOTO-GT and SuperSport.
"We are extremely honoured to have been selected as the Official Fuel of AMA Road Racing," said Rob Marro, Sunoco general manager of performance products and automotive events, in announcing the three-year agreement. "We look forward to playing an integral role as AMA Pro Racing executes its vision for professional motorcycle racing in the U.S."
Sunoco will support the series in both commercial and technical areas. AMA Pro Racing also announced a contribution of $10,000 on behalf of Sunoco for a special award, which will be presented at the season-ending road racing awards banquet.
"I am thrilled to welcome Sunoco to the AMA Pro Racing family," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "In addition to supplying quality, world-class fuels, they will be very aggressive in their marketing of AMA Road Racing. Consistent, affordable, high quality fuel used by every competitor will help us in our drive for parity and cost containment."
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced that Sunoco has been chosen as the fuel of AMA Road Racing. Sunoco 260 GTX unleaded racing fuel, which contains no oxygenates and no metallic additives, will be used in all of the series' classes, including American Superbike, Daytona SportBike, SunTrust MOTO-GT and SuperSport.
"We are extremely honoured to have been selected as the Official Fuel of AMA Road Racing," said Rob Marro, Sunoco general manager of performance products and automotive events, in announcing the three-year agreement. "We look forward to playing an integral role as AMA Pro Racing executes its vision for professional motorcycle racing in the U.S."
Sunoco will support the series in both commercial and technical areas. AMA Pro Racing also announced a contribution of $10,000 on behalf of Sunoco for a special award, which will be presented at the season-ending road racing awards banquet.
"I am thrilled to welcome Sunoco to the AMA Pro Racing family," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "In addition to supplying quality, world-class fuels, they will be very aggressive in their marketing of AMA Road Racing. Consistent, affordable, high quality fuel used by every competitor will help us in our drive for parity and cost containment."
Stoner scores sixth win
From motogp.com
Casey Stoner ended the 2008 season as he began, victorious onboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP8. The Australian took the win at the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana in emphatic fashion on Sunday, breaking away from pole for triumph number six of the year.
Runner-up in the overall standings, Stoner was riding for pride in the final race of the campaign, once again competing through the discomfort of a scaphoid injury that will be treated almost immediately following Monday and Tuesday's post-race test. Setting circuit records along the way, Stoner eventually crossed the line 3.390 seconds clear of any challenge to his superiority.
"I couldn´t ask for much more," Stoner said. "It was a very difficult season with lots of ups and lots of downs. I'm looking forward to testing the new bike – it's the reason that we've kept on riding - but another two good results is great.
"Yesterday we couldn't find a good set up, but working after doing the qualifying laps and in the warm up got us ready for the race."
Last year's race winner at Valencia, Dani Pedrosa was unable to repeat the feat in 2008 – despite his best attempts. The Repsol Honda rider had taken the holeshot after his trademark speedy start off the line, but was left taking a back seat to Stoner as the pace quickened. Nonetheless, the Spaniard treated the home fans to another podium finish, his 11th of the year.
"Normally Stoner is very good at setting up the bike in a short amount of time," Pedrosa said. "In the race he was just a little faster. He was better than me today. I'm a little disappointed about this, because I wanted the victory for the fans and with the special Repsol livery. I'm happy to get back to the top after a bad middle of the season, where my feeling wasn't so good, so this is a good thing for us."
Valentino Rossi had claimed on Saturday that he was not fast on race or qualifying tires in the dry at Valencia, but proved himself wrong with his own mercurial performance with the Yamaha M1. The 2008 World Champion also added a further notch to his podium tally with third place, his ninth in succession and 16th of the campaign.
"We completely messed up the only dry practice," Rossi explained. "I started from the fourth row because of this. We modified the setting, I got a great start and overtook other riders quickly. I was behind Dani quite early and not so far, and I tried to push but we were not at 100%. We always struggle here, but I'm happy to close the year with a podium."
One week on from his first MotoGP podium, Andrea Dovizioso earned fourth place in a similarly closely-fought battle to that of Sepang with Nicky Hayden. The JiR Team Scot rider got a chance to further inspect the factory bike with which he will test on Monday and Tuesday, edging out his American rival but unable to take the Rookie of the Year prize. He handed his satellite machine to his replacement, Yuki Takahashi, on returning to the garage.
Moving from Repsol Honda to Ducati for 2009, Hayden fell short in his quest to end his stay on Japanese machinery with a final victory. Starting from the front row – like Pedrosa running a special white retro livery and leathers combination for the race - 'The Kentucky Kid' dropped to fifth as he once again lost out to Dovizioso.
Tech 3 Yamaha's Colin Edwards came home sixth, ahead of Shinya Nakano, Jorge Lorenzo, Loris Capirossi and Alex de Angelis. All 18 of the MotoGP riders completed the 30-lap race, held in front of 119,788 spectators.
Race Results
1. C. STONER AUS (Ducati Marlboro Team) 46:46.114
2. D. PEDROSA SPA (Repsol Honda Team) +3.390
3. V. ROSSI ITA (Fiat Yamaha Team) +12.194
4. A. DOVIZIOSO ITA (JiR Team Scot MotoGP) +24.159
5. N. HAYDEN USA (Repsol Honda Team) +26.232
6. C. EDWARDS USA (Tech 3 Yamaha) +32.209
7. S. NAKANO JPN (San Carlo Honda Gresini) +34.571
8. J. LORENZO SPA (Fiat Yamaha Team) +35.661
9. L. CAPIROSSI ITA (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) +38.228
10. A. DE ANGELIS RSM (San Carlo Honda Gresini) +47.583
11. J. TOSELAND GBR (Tech 3 Yamaha) +52.107
12. S. GUINTOLI FRA (Alice Team) +52.350
13. C. VERMEULEN AUS (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) +52.833
14. J. HOPKINS USA (Kawasaki Racing Team) +53.227
15. R. DE PUNIET FRA (LCR Honda MotoGP) +53.411
16. M. MELANDRI ITA (Ducati Marlboro Team) +1:08.387
17. A. WEST AUS (Kawasaki Racing Team) +1:11.181
18. T. ELIAS SPA (Alice Team) +1:37.055
Final Point Standings
1. Valentino ROSSI (Fiat Yamaha Team) 373
2. Casey STONER (Ducati Marlboro Team) 280
3. Dani PEDROSA (Repsol Honda Team) 249
4. Jorge LORENZO (Fiat Yamaha Team) 190
5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (JiR Team Scot MotoGP) 174
6. Nicky HAYDEN (Repsol Honda Team) 155
7. Colin EDWARDS (Tech 3 Yamaha) 144
8. Chris VERMEULEN (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 128
9. Shinya NAKANO (San Carlo Honda Gresini) 126
10. Loris CAPIROSSI (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 118
11. James TOSELAND (Tech 3 Yamaha) 105
12. Toni ELIAS (Alice Team) 92
13. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Alice Team) 67
14. Alex DE ANGELIS (San Carlo Honda Gresini) 63
15. Randy DE PUNIET (LCR Honda MotoGP) 61
16. John HOPKINS (Kawasaki Racing Team) 57
17. Marco MELANDRI (Ducati Marlboro Team) 51
18. Anthony WEST (Kawasaki Racing Team) 50
19. Ben SPIES (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 20
20. Jamie HACKING (Kawasaki Racing Team) 5
21. Tadayuki OKADA (Repsol Honda Team) 2
Casey Stoner ended the 2008 season as he began, victorious onboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP8. The Australian took the win at the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana in emphatic fashion on Sunday, breaking away from pole for triumph number six of the year.
Runner-up in the overall standings, Stoner was riding for pride in the final race of the campaign, once again competing through the discomfort of a scaphoid injury that will be treated almost immediately following Monday and Tuesday's post-race test. Setting circuit records along the way, Stoner eventually crossed the line 3.390 seconds clear of any challenge to his superiority.
"I couldn´t ask for much more," Stoner said. "It was a very difficult season with lots of ups and lots of downs. I'm looking forward to testing the new bike – it's the reason that we've kept on riding - but another two good results is great.
"Yesterday we couldn't find a good set up, but working after doing the qualifying laps and in the warm up got us ready for the race."
Last year's race winner at Valencia, Dani Pedrosa was unable to repeat the feat in 2008 – despite his best attempts. The Repsol Honda rider had taken the holeshot after his trademark speedy start off the line, but was left taking a back seat to Stoner as the pace quickened. Nonetheless, the Spaniard treated the home fans to another podium finish, his 11th of the year.
"Normally Stoner is very good at setting up the bike in a short amount of time," Pedrosa said. "In the race he was just a little faster. He was better than me today. I'm a little disappointed about this, because I wanted the victory for the fans and with the special Repsol livery. I'm happy to get back to the top after a bad middle of the season, where my feeling wasn't so good, so this is a good thing for us."
Valentino Rossi had claimed on Saturday that he was not fast on race or qualifying tires in the dry at Valencia, but proved himself wrong with his own mercurial performance with the Yamaha M1. The 2008 World Champion also added a further notch to his podium tally with third place, his ninth in succession and 16th of the campaign.
"We completely messed up the only dry practice," Rossi explained. "I started from the fourth row because of this. We modified the setting, I got a great start and overtook other riders quickly. I was behind Dani quite early and not so far, and I tried to push but we were not at 100%. We always struggle here, but I'm happy to close the year with a podium."
One week on from his first MotoGP podium, Andrea Dovizioso earned fourth place in a similarly closely-fought battle to that of Sepang with Nicky Hayden. The JiR Team Scot rider got a chance to further inspect the factory bike with which he will test on Monday and Tuesday, edging out his American rival but unable to take the Rookie of the Year prize. He handed his satellite machine to his replacement, Yuki Takahashi, on returning to the garage.
Moving from Repsol Honda to Ducati for 2009, Hayden fell short in his quest to end his stay on Japanese machinery with a final victory. Starting from the front row – like Pedrosa running a special white retro livery and leathers combination for the race - 'The Kentucky Kid' dropped to fifth as he once again lost out to Dovizioso.
Tech 3 Yamaha's Colin Edwards came home sixth, ahead of Shinya Nakano, Jorge Lorenzo, Loris Capirossi and Alex de Angelis. All 18 of the MotoGP riders completed the 30-lap race, held in front of 119,788 spectators.
Race Results
1. C. STONER AUS (Ducati Marlboro Team) 46:46.114
2. D. PEDROSA SPA (Repsol Honda Team) +3.390
3. V. ROSSI ITA (Fiat Yamaha Team) +12.194
4. A. DOVIZIOSO ITA (JiR Team Scot MotoGP) +24.159
5. N. HAYDEN USA (Repsol Honda Team) +26.232
6. C. EDWARDS USA (Tech 3 Yamaha) +32.209
7. S. NAKANO JPN (San Carlo Honda Gresini) +34.571
8. J. LORENZO SPA (Fiat Yamaha Team) +35.661
9. L. CAPIROSSI ITA (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) +38.228
10. A. DE ANGELIS RSM (San Carlo Honda Gresini) +47.583
11. J. TOSELAND GBR (Tech 3 Yamaha) +52.107
12. S. GUINTOLI FRA (Alice Team) +52.350
13. C. VERMEULEN AUS (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) +52.833
14. J. HOPKINS USA (Kawasaki Racing Team) +53.227
15. R. DE PUNIET FRA (LCR Honda MotoGP) +53.411
16. M. MELANDRI ITA (Ducati Marlboro Team) +1:08.387
17. A. WEST AUS (Kawasaki Racing Team) +1:11.181
18. T. ELIAS SPA (Alice Team) +1:37.055
Final Point Standings
1. Valentino ROSSI (Fiat Yamaha Team) 373
2. Casey STONER (Ducati Marlboro Team) 280
3. Dani PEDROSA (Repsol Honda Team) 249
4. Jorge LORENZO (Fiat Yamaha Team) 190
5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO (JiR Team Scot MotoGP) 174
6. Nicky HAYDEN (Repsol Honda Team) 155
7. Colin EDWARDS (Tech 3 Yamaha) 144
8. Chris VERMEULEN (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 128
9. Shinya NAKANO (San Carlo Honda Gresini) 126
10. Loris CAPIROSSI (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 118
11. James TOSELAND (Tech 3 Yamaha) 105
12. Toni ELIAS (Alice Team) 92
13. Sylvain GUINTOLI (Alice Team) 67
14. Alex DE ANGELIS (San Carlo Honda Gresini) 63
15. Randy DE PUNIET (LCR Honda MotoGP) 61
16. John HOPKINS (Kawasaki Racing Team) 57
17. Marco MELANDRI (Ducati Marlboro Team) 51
18. Anthony WEST (Kawasaki Racing Team) 50
19. Ben SPIES (Rizla Suzuki MotoGP) 20
20. Jamie HACKING (Kawasaki Racing Team) 5
21. Tadayuki OKADA (Repsol Honda Team) 2
Saturday, October 25, 2008
karburator smash
remer karburator
remer karburator standart 17 mm menjadi 20 mm lumayan mendongkrak tenaga motor standart......
karburator smash
remer karburator
remer karburator standart 17 mm menjadi 20 mm lumayan mendongkrak tenaga motor standart......karburator smash
remer karburator
remer karburator standart 17 mm menjadi 20 mm lumayan mendongkrak tenaga motor standart......2009 MotoGP calendar released
From motogp.com
The FIM has announced the provisional calendar for the 2009 MotoGP World Championship:
April 12 - Qatar - Losail (Evening Race)
April 26 - Japan - Motegi
May 3 - Spain - Jerez
May 17 - France - Le Mans
May 31 - Italy - Mugello
June 14 - Catalunya - Catalunya
June 27 - Netherlands - Assen (Saturday Race)
July 5 - United States - Laguna Seca (Only MotoGP class)
July 19 - Germany - Sachsenring
July 26 - Great Britain - Donington Park
Aug. 16 - Czech Republic - Brno
Aug. 30 - Indianapolis - Indianapolis
Sept. 6 - San Marino & Riviera di Rimini - Misano
Sept. 20 - Hungary - Balaton
Oct. 4 - Portugal - Estoril
Oct. 18 - Australia - Phillip Island
Oct. 25 - Malaysia - Sepang
Nov. 8 - Valencia Ricardo Tormo - Valencia
The FIM has announced the provisional calendar for the 2009 MotoGP World Championship:
April 12 - Qatar - Losail (Evening Race)
April 26 - Japan - Motegi
May 3 - Spain - Jerez
May 17 - France - Le Mans
May 31 - Italy - Mugello
June 14 - Catalunya - Catalunya
June 27 - Netherlands - Assen (Saturday Race)
July 5 - United States - Laguna Seca (Only MotoGP class)
July 19 - Germany - Sachsenring
July 26 - Great Britain - Donington Park
Aug. 16 - Czech Republic - Brno
Aug. 30 - Indianapolis - Indianapolis
Sept. 6 - San Marino & Riviera di Rimini - Misano
Sept. 20 - Hungary - Balaton
Oct. 4 - Portugal - Estoril
Oct. 18 - Australia - Phillip Island
Oct. 25 - Malaysia - Sepang
Nov. 8 - Valencia Ricardo Tormo - Valencia
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - ThFireman's Wife and Keithva99
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See ThFireman's Wife with her 1976 Honda CB750F Super Sport. Also see Keithva99 on his 2000 Kawasaki "Indian Drifter." For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
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.
Honda CBR10000RR Fireblade Voted Britain’s Favourite Motorcycle
In the 2008 RiDER Power Survey Honda's awesome CBR1000RRR Fireblade had been voted Britain's favourite bike with a satisfaction rating score of 92.19%. Also Honda's ST1300 Pan European came fifth with a score of 88.53%.
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/
BMW Recalls 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro Motorcycles for Paralever Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro motorcycles.
The front threaded fastener of the Paralever link may not have been tightened to correct specifications. If the fastener was not tightened according to specifications, it could loosen. Over time, it is possible for the fastener to separate from its housing. If this were to occur, then the final drive of the motorcycle would not be properly supported.
365 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The front threaded fastener of the Paralever link may not have been tightened to correct specifications. If the fastener was not tightened according to specifications, it could loosen. Over time, it is possible for the fastener to separate from its housing. If this were to occur, then the final drive of the motorcycle would not be properly supported.
365 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Hayden on top in Valencia
From motogp.com
Determined to take a pole position and race victory to sign-off his stay with Repsol Honda, Nicky Hayden took the initiative in the MotoGP free practice sessions on Friday. The American was quickest in both the morning opener and matinee performance in preparation for the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana, the final race of the 2008 season.
Whereas in 2006 Hayden was getting soaked by Cava on the Sunday in Valencia after confirming the World Championship title, in this year's initial pair of sessions the only spray was that thrown up from the track in a damp day of riding.
Hayden recorded a 1:45.777 lap in the quicker afternoon session, edging out teammate and 2007 Valencia race winner Dani Pedrosa by less than a tenth of a second. Pedrosa produced the fastest top speed of the session at 301.8km/h, over 6km/h more than any other rider.
Behind the factory Honda duo, Fiat Yamaha made its own collective charge for the top of the timesheet, led by Spanish rookie Jorge Lorenzo. The 800cc debutant is using a special white livery adorned with various flags this weekend. He was just under two-tenths of a second down on Hayden's time, at the scene of his first formal test for Yamaha one year ago.
Teammate and 2008 MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi placed fourth in the session, although his day was blighted by a lowside crash on the final turn of the track. Unable to restart his M1, Rossi had to return to the garage by foot in order to ride the second bike, although he put his standby machine to good use with times faster than those of the morning session.
A crasher in the pre-lunch session, Ducati's Casey Stoner was fifth quickest, ahead of Andrea Dovizioso, Randy de Puniet, Sylvain Guintoli, Colin Edwards and Shinya Nakano. Over 1.5 seconds separated the top 10.
Also crashing in the session was Toni Elias, flung from his satellite Ducati early on.
Determined to take a pole position and race victory to sign-off his stay with Repsol Honda, Nicky Hayden took the initiative in the MotoGP free practice sessions on Friday. The American was quickest in both the morning opener and matinee performance in preparation for the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana, the final race of the 2008 season.
Whereas in 2006 Hayden was getting soaked by Cava on the Sunday in Valencia after confirming the World Championship title, in this year's initial pair of sessions the only spray was that thrown up from the track in a damp day of riding.
Hayden recorded a 1:45.777 lap in the quicker afternoon session, edging out teammate and 2007 Valencia race winner Dani Pedrosa by less than a tenth of a second. Pedrosa produced the fastest top speed of the session at 301.8km/h, over 6km/h more than any other rider.
Behind the factory Honda duo, Fiat Yamaha made its own collective charge for the top of the timesheet, led by Spanish rookie Jorge Lorenzo. The 800cc debutant is using a special white livery adorned with various flags this weekend. He was just under two-tenths of a second down on Hayden's time, at the scene of his first formal test for Yamaha one year ago.
Teammate and 2008 MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi placed fourth in the session, although his day was blighted by a lowside crash on the final turn of the track. Unable to restart his M1, Rossi had to return to the garage by foot in order to ride the second bike, although he put his standby machine to good use with times faster than those of the morning session.
A crasher in the pre-lunch session, Ducati's Casey Stoner was fifth quickest, ahead of Andrea Dovizioso, Randy de Puniet, Sylvain Guintoli, Colin Edwards and Shinya Nakano. Over 1.5 seconds separated the top 10.
Also crashing in the session was Toni Elias, flung from his satellite Ducati early on.
Dunlop official AMA road race tire
From AMA Pro Racing
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced that Dunlop has been chosen as the sole tire supplier of AMA Road Racing. Use of Dunlop tires will be required in all of the series' road racing classes, including American Superbike, Daytona SportBike, SunTrust MOTO-GT and SuperSport, beginning in 2009.
"This is a very exciting announcement," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "Dunlop is a logical selection, and the continuation of a long partnership Dunlop has fostered with many of the AMA road racing teams. We are confident they will continue to supply an outstanding product for AMA road racing. Having all of our competitors on the same tires will help us in our drive for parity, safety, and cost containment."
"We're pleased and excited about the opportunity to continue our long standing relationship with the teams and riders that make up the AMA paddock," said Mike Buckley, vice president motorcycle, Dunlop Tire N.A. "Professional road racing always has and will continue to be an integral part of the Dunlop marketing efforts and of course the venue for development of the next generation of sport radial products enjoyed by all our customers today and in the future.
"We'd like to thank everyone involved at AMA Pro Racing for selecting us. We're looking forward to getting the 2009 season underway at the upcoming tests."
Dunlop, a long-time supporter of AMA Road Racing, has supported teams that have captured the last 22 Superbike championships - including the last 18 in a row - and have won 21 consecutive titles in the former Supersport division. In addition, Dunlop was undefeated in AMA Superstock and won all but one of the 11 titles in Formula Xtreme.
Dunlop will be supporting the series in both a marketing and technical role, and will contribute to the AMA Road Racing contingency program.
The 2009 AMA Pro Racing schedule will kick off on Friday, March 6 with the running of the Daytona 200 By Honda, marking the first time that America's premier motorcycle race will be run under the lights at Daytona International Speedway.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced that Dunlop has been chosen as the sole tire supplier of AMA Road Racing. Use of Dunlop tires will be required in all of the series' road racing classes, including American Superbike, Daytona SportBike, SunTrust MOTO-GT and SuperSport, beginning in 2009.
"This is a very exciting announcement," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "Dunlop is a logical selection, and the continuation of a long partnership Dunlop has fostered with many of the AMA road racing teams. We are confident they will continue to supply an outstanding product for AMA road racing. Having all of our competitors on the same tires will help us in our drive for parity, safety, and cost containment."
"We're pleased and excited about the opportunity to continue our long standing relationship with the teams and riders that make up the AMA paddock," said Mike Buckley, vice president motorcycle, Dunlop Tire N.A. "Professional road racing always has and will continue to be an integral part of the Dunlop marketing efforts and of course the venue for development of the next generation of sport radial products enjoyed by all our customers today and in the future.
"We'd like to thank everyone involved at AMA Pro Racing for selecting us. We're looking forward to getting the 2009 season underway at the upcoming tests."
Dunlop, a long-time supporter of AMA Road Racing, has supported teams that have captured the last 22 Superbike championships - including the last 18 in a row - and have won 21 consecutive titles in the former Supersport division. In addition, Dunlop was undefeated in AMA Superstock and won all but one of the 11 titles in Formula Xtreme.
Dunlop will be supporting the series in both a marketing and technical role, and will contribute to the AMA Road Racing contingency program.
The 2009 AMA Pro Racing schedule will kick off on Friday, March 6 with the running of the Daytona 200 By Honda, marking the first time that America's premier motorcycle race will be run under the lights at Daytona International Speedway.
Ducati Recalls 2008 Desmosedici RR Motorcycles for Fuel Tank Drain Hose Defect
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2008 Desmosedici RR motorcycles.
The fuel tank drain and breather hose clamps may be installed incorrectly. This nonconformity may cause the fuel lines to weaken and break. This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider.
289 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The fuel tank drain and breather hose clamps may be installed incorrectly. This nonconformity may cause the fuel lines to weaken and break. This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider.
289 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Buell Recalls 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R Motorcycles for Cam Chain Problem
Buell has issued a recall of certain 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R motorcycles.
These motorcycles can experience a premature failure of the rear cylinder cam chain tension guide (part number F0020.1AM). This can cause plastic debris to block the oil pump screen, possibly leading to oil starvation and engine seizure.
140 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
These motorcycles can experience a premature failure of the rear cylinder cam chain tension guide (part number F0020.1AM). This can cause plastic debris to block the oil pump screen, possibly leading to oil starvation and engine seizure.
140 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Friday, October 24, 2008
AMA unveils road race program
From AMA Pro Racing
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced its class structure and weekend event package for the 2009 motorcycle road racing season.
American Superbike will be the new premier class for AMA Pro Racing, and will showcase the traditional 1,000cc machines that competed in the former AMA Superbike class in the past.
The new rules for the class are based on rules that were adopted by a committee comprised of the AMA staff, representatives of the various manufacturers, as well as experienced personnel from the American road racing infrastructure. Much of the new class structure has been architected with the participation and counsel of the major motorcycle manufacturers.
The class will adopt a spec tire and spec fuel and features changes that were made as a means to promote parity and to address the ever-escalating costs of competing in professional motorsport programs.
American Superbike will compete in two feature races of 50 miles each at most events.
Also featured at all AMA Pro Racing weekends will be a new middleweight class to be known as Daytona SportBike. This class has been designed to include a broad range of competition equipment that formerly competed in AMA Supersport and AMA Formula Xtreme, as well as two- and three-cylinder machines not normally featured in AMA Professional events. This class will make its competition debut in the 2009 Daytona 200 By Honda, America's most prestigious motorcycle event. The green flag will drop on the field for the first time under the lights at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, March 6.
AMA Pro Racing will include a third class, newly created for 2009, known as SuperSport. This category is designed as an entry-level class for professionally licensed riders aged 16-21, competing on 600cc production motorcycles with minimal modifications. Riders will be limited to three years of competition in the new class.
Many 2009 race weekends will also include the popular Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup. This class showcases future road racing stars aged 14-16 that have been selected for the Series through Red Bull's national competition program.
In addition, the SunTrust MOTO-ST Series is being revamped to include 600cc four-cylinder machines. The structure will go from three classes to two (GT1 and GT2) and will compete at select events, concluding with the 8 Hours At Daytona during Biketoberfest. The revamped program will be renamed SunTrust MOTO-GT.
"The class structure we are announcing today bears little resemblance to that which we proposed several months ago, however I believe it will accomplish our goals of increased safety, parity and cost containment," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "The program we have worked out with input from the industry will provide for participation by a wide variety of brands, and should provide a showcase for the best riders in American racing, with the added benefit of running at the best venues in the United States. We were fortunate to have the assistance of many stakeholders in the creation of the program, including the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC)."
AMA Pro Racing has already released a 12-event schedule for 2009. In addition to its traditional events, pending safety committee input, American Superbikes and the AMA Pro Racing Program will return July 31-Aug. 2 to Heartland Park in Topeka, KS, for the first time in several years, and make their first visit to New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ, Sept. 4-6.
The class rules are posted on the internet at www.amasuperbike.com. The complete rulebook will be finalized on Nov. 20.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- AMA Pro Racing has announced its class structure and weekend event package for the 2009 motorcycle road racing season.
American Superbike will be the new premier class for AMA Pro Racing, and will showcase the traditional 1,000cc machines that competed in the former AMA Superbike class in the past.
The new rules for the class are based on rules that were adopted by a committee comprised of the AMA staff, representatives of the various manufacturers, as well as experienced personnel from the American road racing infrastructure. Much of the new class structure has been architected with the participation and counsel of the major motorcycle manufacturers.
The class will adopt a spec tire and spec fuel and features changes that were made as a means to promote parity and to address the ever-escalating costs of competing in professional motorsport programs.
American Superbike will compete in two feature races of 50 miles each at most events.
Also featured at all AMA Pro Racing weekends will be a new middleweight class to be known as Daytona SportBike. This class has been designed to include a broad range of competition equipment that formerly competed in AMA Supersport and AMA Formula Xtreme, as well as two- and three-cylinder machines not normally featured in AMA Professional events. This class will make its competition debut in the 2009 Daytona 200 By Honda, America's most prestigious motorcycle event. The green flag will drop on the field for the first time under the lights at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, March 6.
AMA Pro Racing will include a third class, newly created for 2009, known as SuperSport. This category is designed as an entry-level class for professionally licensed riders aged 16-21, competing on 600cc production motorcycles with minimal modifications. Riders will be limited to three years of competition in the new class.
Many 2009 race weekends will also include the popular Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup. This class showcases future road racing stars aged 14-16 that have been selected for the Series through Red Bull's national competition program.
In addition, the SunTrust MOTO-ST Series is being revamped to include 600cc four-cylinder machines. The structure will go from three classes to two (GT1 and GT2) and will compete at select events, concluding with the 8 Hours At Daytona during Biketoberfest. The revamped program will be renamed SunTrust MOTO-GT.
"The class structure we are announcing today bears little resemblance to that which we proposed several months ago, however I believe it will accomplish our goals of increased safety, parity and cost containment," said Roger Edmondson, president of AMA Pro Racing. "The program we have worked out with input from the industry will provide for participation by a wide variety of brands, and should provide a showcase for the best riders in American racing, with the added benefit of running at the best venues in the United States. We were fortunate to have the assistance of many stakeholders in the creation of the program, including the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC)."
AMA Pro Racing has already released a 12-event schedule for 2009. In addition to its traditional events, pending safety committee input, American Superbikes and the AMA Pro Racing Program will return July 31-Aug. 2 to Heartland Park in Topeka, KS, for the first time in several years, and make their first visit to New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ, Sept. 4-6.
The class rules are posted on the internet at www.amasuperbike.com. The complete rulebook will be finalized on Nov. 20.
Lajoie back in California
From Nadine Lajoie
After an absence of seven weeks, Nadine Lajoie returned to California for a regional event at Willow Springs Raceway recently.
The weather was gorgeous and despite the aches and pains associated with her long layoff Lajoie enjoyed a positive weekend. She came ninth in 600 Superbike, 13th in Formula 2 and 15th in 600 Modified Production. She was ranked 13th overall in the standings for 600 Modified Production.
After being back in Canada for more than two months, Lajoie rented a motorcycle for the last National at Shannonville Motorsport Park. Unfortunately, suspension problems made for a very long and painful weekend, and finally the engine blew in the last lap of the Women's Cup race.
"It's too bad. I would've really liked to do the last regional in September in Shannonville but not having finished did not warrant my taking part in these last races and rent another bike," Lajoie said.
Lajoie's next event will be at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Nov. 1-2.
After an absence of seven weeks, Nadine Lajoie returned to California for a regional event at Willow Springs Raceway recently.
The weather was gorgeous and despite the aches and pains associated with her long layoff Lajoie enjoyed a positive weekend. She came ninth in 600 Superbike, 13th in Formula 2 and 15th in 600 Modified Production. She was ranked 13th overall in the standings for 600 Modified Production.
After being back in Canada for more than two months, Lajoie rented a motorcycle for the last National at Shannonville Motorsport Park. Unfortunately, suspension problems made for a very long and painful weekend, and finally the engine blew in the last lap of the Women's Cup race.
"It's too bad. I would've really liked to do the last regional in September in Shannonville but not having finished did not warrant my taking part in these last races and rent another bike," Lajoie said.
Lajoie's next event will be at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Nov. 1-2.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Gibernau back in MotoGP
From motogp.com
Sete Gibernau was officially unveiled as a participant in the 2009 MotoGP World Championship on Thursday evening, confirming his comeback as part of the new Onde 2000 Ducati project.
The former MotoGP World Championship runner-up will ride with the number 59 in the upcoming campaign. Speaking at the team's official presentation in Valencia, Gibernau explained his motivation for a return to competition after two seasons on the sidelines.
"I'm excited about what it means to be a MotoGP rider, I've come back to enjoy it again and it's a good opportunity for me. That's my main goal; to enjoy riding. I'm still open to learning again, even at 35," said Gibernau, whose comeback came as a result of a chain of circumstances begun by a visit to this year's race at Barcelona. The Spaniard agreed to an initial one-off test with Ducati in Mugello, which he repeated on further occasions as a return became more viable.
While the decision to re-enter the World Championship was ultimately an easy one for Gibernau, he doesn't expect it to be plain sailing. Having followed two seasons of racing as a spectator, he has seen the new generation of riders come through, and already knows just how difficult it is to be competitive at the highest level.
"I've been watching and I've been impressed with the riders. I have a lot of respect for them and I have to be conscious that it's going to be difficult. I'm going to have to work very hard and I'm ready for that," he concluded.
Sete Gibernau was officially unveiled as a participant in the 2009 MotoGP World Championship on Thursday evening, confirming his comeback as part of the new Onde 2000 Ducati project.
The former MotoGP World Championship runner-up will ride with the number 59 in the upcoming campaign. Speaking at the team's official presentation in Valencia, Gibernau explained his motivation for a return to competition after two seasons on the sidelines.
"I'm excited about what it means to be a MotoGP rider, I've come back to enjoy it again and it's a good opportunity for me. That's my main goal; to enjoy riding. I'm still open to learning again, even at 35," said Gibernau, whose comeback came as a result of a chain of circumstances begun by a visit to this year's race at Barcelona. The Spaniard agreed to an initial one-off test with Ducati in Mugello, which he repeated on further occasions as a return became more viable.
While the decision to re-enter the World Championship was ultimately an easy one for Gibernau, he doesn't expect it to be plain sailing. Having followed two seasons of racing as a spectator, he has seen the new generation of riders come through, and already knows just how difficult it is to be competitive at the highest level.
"I've been watching and I've been impressed with the riders. I have a lot of respect for them and I have to be conscious that it's going to be difficult. I'm going to have to work very hard and I'm ready for that," he concluded.
Podium for Grande in Atlanta
From Sport Collette
Montreal racer Martin Grande took part in the WERA Grand National Final at Road Atlanta on Oct. 8-12, picking up a podium finish in the event.
Grande was invited to take part in the 600 Stock, 600 Modified, 750 Stock and 750 Modified classes. In all events he rode his Suzuki GSX-R600.
"The experience was awesome on a very fast and nice race track," said the 2007 Suzuki SV650 Cup Canadian champion. "The first two days were in the heavy rain but this was helpful for me to learn the lines and the track."
Grande's best performance, in 600 Stock, ended with a black flag after two of eight laps while he was running in fourth spot. The reason for the flag was that he had gridded one row ahead of his assigned spot, in 14th rather than 15th position.
The star of the 2008 Armour Bodies Canadian Amateur 600 Sport Bike national series crossed the line third in 600 Modified but was penalized six positions for missing the chicane on three consecutive laps. That penalty has been contested by Grande.
It all came good for Grande in 750 Modified, where he finished third after starting 19th in the field.
"The bottom line of this tremendous weekend was that I have a thousand good memories, a great race experience and a third place trophy in a National level WERA race," Grande added. "I met some very nice riders, lots of good corner workers, team owners, endurance team directors, lots of racing fans and of course all the WERA staff."
Montreal racer Martin Grande took part in the WERA Grand National Final at Road Atlanta on Oct. 8-12, picking up a podium finish in the event.
Grande was invited to take part in the 600 Stock, 600 Modified, 750 Stock and 750 Modified classes. In all events he rode his Suzuki GSX-R600.
"The experience was awesome on a very fast and nice race track," said the 2007 Suzuki SV650 Cup Canadian champion. "The first two days were in the heavy rain but this was helpful for me to learn the lines and the track."
Grande's best performance, in 600 Stock, ended with a black flag after two of eight laps while he was running in fourth spot. The reason for the flag was that he had gridded one row ahead of his assigned spot, in 14th rather than 15th position.
The star of the 2008 Armour Bodies Canadian Amateur 600 Sport Bike national series crossed the line third in 600 Modified but was penalized six positions for missing the chicane on three consecutive laps. That penalty has been contested by Grande.
It all came good for Grande in 750 Modified, where he finished third after starting 19th in the field.
"The bottom line of this tremendous weekend was that I have a thousand good memories, a great race experience and a third place trophy in a National level WERA race," Grande added. "I met some very nice riders, lots of good corner workers, team owners, endurance team directors, lots of racing fans and of course all the WERA staff."
Taz Motorcycles win Aprilia Award!
Neil Steen, Managing Director of Taz Motorcycles at the Aprilia Awards held in Sepang
Taz Motorcycles - Best Performing European Dealer 2008 for Aprilia Motorcycles Trophy
Taz Motorcycles of Peterborough have just won a top award from Aprilia that of Best Performing European Dealer of 2008.
Well done Taz!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Buell Issues Recall for Windshield Problem on XB12XT and XB12XP Motorcycles
Buell has issued a recall of certain 2008-2009 XB12XT and 2009 XB12XP motorcycles.
The windshields may become dislodged and allow the windshield to either strike or distract the rider while the vehicle is being ridden at a high speed. This could result in a crash, which could cause injury or death to the rider.
624 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The windshields may become dislodged and allow the windshield to either strike or distract the rider while the vehicle is being ridden at a high speed. This could result in a crash, which could cause injury or death to the rider.
624 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Son's of Anarchy Episode 8 review
This show keeps rolling along, and packing in the punches.
I love what the prospect did to attempt to earn his top rocker. Way funny. At least it came in handy later on in the show.
Hey did you hear Able got out of the "toaster"!
Jax & Tartar sittin in a tree. What they did was really F'n creepy.
It's like... "sleeping with the enemy" (in the room).
It's like necrophilia, "sleeping with the dead guy" (in the room).
Can you say freaking twisted?
All I could think was "Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!"
On a lighter note: I can't get that theme song out of my head. I can't wait for it's release.
Below is some information on the theme song, posted from the SOA website.
POSTED ON Thursday October 2, 2008
I love what the prospect did to attempt to earn his top rocker. Way funny. At least it came in handy later on in the show.
Hey did you hear Able got out of the "toaster"!
Jax & Tartar sittin in a tree. What they did was really F'n creepy.
It's like... "sleeping with the enemy" (in the room).
It's like necrophilia, "sleeping with the dead guy" (in the room).
Can you say freaking twisted?
All I could think was "Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!"
On a lighter note: I can't get that theme song out of my head. I can't wait for it's release.
Below is some information on the theme song, posted from the SOA website.
POSTED ON Thursday October 2, 2008
The Sound
By soaproduction at 2:45 pm
The Sound:
Music for the show plays a crucial part in depicting the world of Samcro as well as the simplicity of life in a town like Charming. It must reflect both the authentic rebelliousness and freedom of the club lifestyle but also have playful Americana undertones.
The man responsible for capturing this is acclaimed producer/songwriter/musician Bob Thiele Jr., whose major task as theme song composer and co-music supervisor is to make the music as authentic as possible. He does this by drawing from a specific musical palette, using a great deal of guitar and accordion, keeping it simple as anything too orchestral or overly computer generated becomes distracting and can hinder instead of adding to the characters and their stories. This very notion is best captured in the show’s theme song “This Life.”
For the song, Bob teamed up with guitarist/songwriter/and all around badass Dave Kushner of the band Velvet Revolver, as well as famed musician Curtis Stigers (who sings it.) The three are in works to lay down a full recording of the song to be available soon. Further details to follow…
In many ways SOA is a contemporary western, a cowboy story complete with all the thrills and pangs that comes with it. Our cowboy, Jax, is isolated in his conflict over the club and his family. Thematically, it’s important to capture Jax’s confusion with a classic lonesome cowboy edge, but also show the tradition and excitement of the world…
Ride into this world
All alone
God takes your soul
You’re on your own.
The crow flies straight
A perfect line
On the devil’s back
Until you die.
Gotta look this life in the eye.
The combination of these elements truly reflects our characters lives: The good, the bad and the crow.
Information on the sound from the SOA website.
Tokyo Highways
Being this is a blog about the places to ride I thought I might show some amazing road photos I came across on the Web recently. The following are highway junctions or overpasses by night...Click to see a larger version.
Rossi aims to end Valencia drought
From motogp.com
With 17 races down, the 2008 MotoGP season draws to a close with the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana this weekend, the 18th and final round of a spectacular year of World Championship racing.
Valentino Rossi arrives in Valencia with the 2008 title already under his belt, but he has plenty of motivation ahead of the season finale. The Fiat Yamaha rider has not taken victory at the Spanish track since 2004, and has had two difficult season-concluding races there for the past two years. In 2006 an early crash led to his conceding of the MotoGP World Championship to Nicky Hayden, while last year a mechanical failure meant that he was unable to pick up the single point necessary to confirm second place in the series.
The Italian is still a favourite for victory on Sunday, coming as he does off an eight-race podium streak. Rossi's most recent rostrum was his victory in Malaysia, the ninth triumph of a memorable return to the top of MotoGP racing.
He will begin his 2009 preparations the day after the Valencia race, with the new Yamaha M1 prototype being shipped to the track for two days of testing.
The top three positions in the overall classification are already decided, with 2007 MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner assured of the runner-up spot. The Ducati rider has postponed surgery on a scaphoid fracture in order to be present for the post-race test to get properly acquainted with the latest Ducati Desmosedici GP9 machine. Stoner finished second in last year´s season-closing race.
The winner of the previous duel at Valencia, Dani Pedrosa, was confirmed as the third place finisher in the overall classification in Malaysia, despite taking second behind Rossi. The Spaniard holds an enviable record at the scene of this weekend's race, with wins in all three cylinder categories over the course of his career.
Behind the top three there is a score to be settled between two riders in their first year of MotoGP competition. Fiat Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo currently holds a slight advantage in the 2008 Rookie of the Year standings, just 21 points separates him from longtime rival Andrea Dovizioso in the running for both the debutantes honour and fourth place in the classification.
JiR Team Scot rider Dovizioso took his first MotoGP podium with third in Sepang, but will need nothing less than a maiden victory if he is to pip Lorenzo to glory.
The Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana will be Dovizioso's last race for his current team before moving to Repsol Honda for 2009.
The man whom Dovizioso will replace in the factory outfit, 2006 World Champion Nicky Hayden, has fond memories of the Valencia circuit. The Kentucky Kid's crowning moment came in Spain in a shocking curtain-closer to his title-winning year, and a victory could see him move above Dovizioso in his final Grand Prix for Honda.
Colin Edwards, Chris Vermeulen, Shinya Nakano and Loris Capirossi could all move up places in the end-of-season standings, depending on results at round 18.
The Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana takes place on Sunday with practice sessions starting on Friday morning.
With 17 races down, the 2008 MotoGP season draws to a close with the Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana this weekend, the 18th and final round of a spectacular year of World Championship racing.
Valentino Rossi arrives in Valencia with the 2008 title already under his belt, but he has plenty of motivation ahead of the season finale. The Fiat Yamaha rider has not taken victory at the Spanish track since 2004, and has had two difficult season-concluding races there for the past two years. In 2006 an early crash led to his conceding of the MotoGP World Championship to Nicky Hayden, while last year a mechanical failure meant that he was unable to pick up the single point necessary to confirm second place in the series.
The Italian is still a favourite for victory on Sunday, coming as he does off an eight-race podium streak. Rossi's most recent rostrum was his victory in Malaysia, the ninth triumph of a memorable return to the top of MotoGP racing.
He will begin his 2009 preparations the day after the Valencia race, with the new Yamaha M1 prototype being shipped to the track for two days of testing.
The top three positions in the overall classification are already decided, with 2007 MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner assured of the runner-up spot. The Ducati rider has postponed surgery on a scaphoid fracture in order to be present for the post-race test to get properly acquainted with the latest Ducati Desmosedici GP9 machine. Stoner finished second in last year´s season-closing race.
The winner of the previous duel at Valencia, Dani Pedrosa, was confirmed as the third place finisher in the overall classification in Malaysia, despite taking second behind Rossi. The Spaniard holds an enviable record at the scene of this weekend's race, with wins in all three cylinder categories over the course of his career.
Behind the top three there is a score to be settled between two riders in their first year of MotoGP competition. Fiat Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo currently holds a slight advantage in the 2008 Rookie of the Year standings, just 21 points separates him from longtime rival Andrea Dovizioso in the running for both the debutantes honour and fourth place in the classification.
JiR Team Scot rider Dovizioso took his first MotoGP podium with third in Sepang, but will need nothing less than a maiden victory if he is to pip Lorenzo to glory.
The Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana will be Dovizioso's last race for his current team before moving to Repsol Honda for 2009.
The man whom Dovizioso will replace in the factory outfit, 2006 World Champion Nicky Hayden, has fond memories of the Valencia circuit. The Kentucky Kid's crowning moment came in Spain in a shocking curtain-closer to his title-winning year, and a victory could see him move above Dovizioso in his final Grand Prix for Honda.
Colin Edwards, Chris Vermeulen, Shinya Nakano and Loris Capirossi could all move up places in the end-of-season standings, depending on results at round 18.
The Gran Premio Parts Europe de la Comunitat Valenciana takes place on Sunday with practice sessions starting on Friday morning.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
An end to a good thing.......
I received an e-mail stating that MBI A.K. A. Motorcycle Bloggers International is to no longer be.
Knowing this, I am sad to say there is an end, and see the end of a good thing.
It appears the failure was mainly due to lack of funding and participation.
MBI was initially started to become an industry award, but even that caused more problems last year than what it was worth. Since MBI costs money to run and maintain, time & effort, it doesn't make sense to continue the lack of participation or funding.
So sad.
We can at least keep the spirit alive fellow motobloggers!
Knowing this, I am sad to say there is an end, and see the end of a good thing.
It appears the failure was mainly due to lack of funding and participation.
MBI was initially started to become an industry award, but even that caused more problems last year than what it was worth. Since MBI costs money to run and maintain, time & effort, it doesn't make sense to continue the lack of participation or funding.
So sad.
We can at least keep the spirit alive fellow motobloggers!
Bobbitt clinches Enduro title
From KTM Racing
WICKENBURGE, AZ -- Red Bull KTM Factory rider Russell Bobbitt secured his second National Enduro Championship at the 10th round of the AMA National Enduro Series last weekend while his teammate Mike Lafferty finished in the runner-up position.
Lafferty and Bobbitt both rode well throughout the day. Lafferty won the majority of the tests, which earned him the overall win. Bobbitt stayed strong and consistent and finished second which secured the championship.
"I was happy with my ride today but knew that Russell would have to make some pretty big mistakes to lose the championship," Lafferty said. "I got the race win, but not the championship. Now I will go home and continue my training to come back and try to win the championship next year."
"I am very excited about this championship. I worked hard all season long and am glad that I was able to have everything come together at the final round. It was a close title chase all year. I am happy for the entire team to earn first and second in the series," reported Bobbitt.
Results
1. Mike Lafferty - KTM
2. Russell Bobbitt - KTM
3. Cole Kirkpatrick - KTM
4. Derek Mahoney
5. Quinn Cody
Final Point Standings
1. Russell Bobbitt - 245
2. Mike Lafferty - 239
3. Cole Kirkpatrick - 190
4. Jeff Melik - 120
5. Chris Gallt - 84
WICKENBURGE, AZ -- Red Bull KTM Factory rider Russell Bobbitt secured his second National Enduro Championship at the 10th round of the AMA National Enduro Series last weekend while his teammate Mike Lafferty finished in the runner-up position.
Lafferty and Bobbitt both rode well throughout the day. Lafferty won the majority of the tests, which earned him the overall win. Bobbitt stayed strong and consistent and finished second which secured the championship.
"I was happy with my ride today but knew that Russell would have to make some pretty big mistakes to lose the championship," Lafferty said. "I got the race win, but not the championship. Now I will go home and continue my training to come back and try to win the championship next year."
"I am very excited about this championship. I worked hard all season long and am glad that I was able to have everything come together at the final round. It was a close title chase all year. I am happy for the entire team to earn first and second in the series," reported Bobbitt.
Results
1. Mike Lafferty - KTM
2. Russell Bobbitt - KTM
3. Cole Kirkpatrick - KTM
4. Derek Mahoney
5. Quinn Cody
Final Point Standings
1. Russell Bobbitt - 245
2. Mike Lafferty - 239
3. Cole Kirkpatrick - 190
4. Jeff Melik - 120
5. Chris Gallt - 84
Daytona Ducati legends reunited
From Ducati North America
CUPERTINO, CA – Last past Saturday at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum legendary racer Cook Neilson was reunited with the bike on which he won the Daytona Superbike race in 1977.
As the guest of honour at last weekend’s Barber Vintage Festival, Neilson recounted his legendary racing feats at the gala dinner. Immediately afterwards, Neilson received a big surprise as the museum pulled the cover off of “Deja Blue” – a piece-for-piece replica of his 1977 Daytona Superbike race winning Ducati 750 SS “Old Blue.”
With the help of master tuner, fellow editor and good friend Phil Schilling, Old Blue was born when Cook’s personal Ducati 750 SuperSport was transformed into a bike light enough and fast enough to beat the competition. The duo bored the original 748cc engine to 883cc and reduced weight using revolutionary techniques such as plasma-spraying aluminum rotors and fabricating titanium axles – all technology that was previously off limits to a privateer team.
The two Cycle magazine editors captivated readers month after month as they chronicled their pursuit of victory at Daytona. When Daytona arrived they won the race, creating a moment in Ducati history that stands out to this day.
With “Old Blue” locked up and hidden from the world in a collector’s bedroom, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum commissioned a replica of the famous bike for the world to enjoy. “Deja Blue” is an exact copy of Neilson and Schilling’s Daytona winner using vintage Ducati parts.
“The Barber Museum is motorcycling’s grandest cathedral," Neilson said. "For Phil and Ducati and me to be represented here is the greatest honour we could imagine. 'Deja Blue' is a masterpiece which perfectly captures not just the look of Old Blue, but its heart, sound and soul.
"This has been a very emotional weekend for Phil and me and all our friends. The people who knew about 'Deja Blue' hoped when it was done that it would be worthy of George Barber and the Barber Museum. Phil and I know it is.”
Deja Blue has found a permanent home at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and can be admired by all who visit the famous facility.
CUPERTINO, CA – Last past Saturday at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum legendary racer Cook Neilson was reunited with the bike on which he won the Daytona Superbike race in 1977.
As the guest of honour at last weekend’s Barber Vintage Festival, Neilson recounted his legendary racing feats at the gala dinner. Immediately afterwards, Neilson received a big surprise as the museum pulled the cover off of “Deja Blue” – a piece-for-piece replica of his 1977 Daytona Superbike race winning Ducati 750 SS “Old Blue.”
With the help of master tuner, fellow editor and good friend Phil Schilling, Old Blue was born when Cook’s personal Ducati 750 SuperSport was transformed into a bike light enough and fast enough to beat the competition. The duo bored the original 748cc engine to 883cc and reduced weight using revolutionary techniques such as plasma-spraying aluminum rotors and fabricating titanium axles – all technology that was previously off limits to a privateer team.
The two Cycle magazine editors captivated readers month after month as they chronicled their pursuit of victory at Daytona. When Daytona arrived they won the race, creating a moment in Ducati history that stands out to this day.
With “Old Blue” locked up and hidden from the world in a collector’s bedroom, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum commissioned a replica of the famous bike for the world to enjoy. “Deja Blue” is an exact copy of Neilson and Schilling’s Daytona winner using vintage Ducati parts.
“The Barber Museum is motorcycling’s grandest cathedral," Neilson said. "For Phil and Ducati and me to be represented here is the greatest honour we could imagine. 'Deja Blue' is a masterpiece which perfectly captures not just the look of Old Blue, but its heart, sound and soul.
"This has been a very emotional weekend for Phil and me and all our friends. The people who knew about 'Deja Blue' hoped when it was done that it would be worthy of George Barber and the Barber Museum. Phil and I know it is.”
Deja Blue has found a permanent home at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and can be admired by all who visit the famous facility.
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