By John Hopkins
Ferrari's top man, Luca di Montezemolo, has suggested there could be possibilities for Moto GP World Champion Valentino Rossi to join the Italian Formula One team in 2011 if he desired.
Speaking at the launch of Ferrari's 2010 F-1 challenger earlier this week, di Montezemolo indicated that a proposal to allow teams to run three cars could open the door for new drivers like Rossi to step into the World Championship.
"He's a friend and an undisputed champion, from Emilia-Romagna, a great fan of Formula One and engines, and also a potential Formula One champion," di Montezemolo was quoted as saying on autosport.com. "If there was the possibility in 2011 and he wanted to do it and had the possibility for testing and adapting to F1, then why not?"
Speculation over Rossi's racing future has been rekindled following his impressive test with the Ferrari team at Barcelona recently. His Yamaha MotoGP contract expires after the 2010 season.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Electric bikes return to Isle of Man
From the Isle of Man TT
Following the success of the inaugural clean emissions motorcycle race on the Isle of Man in 2009, the Isle of Man Government Department of Tourism and Leisure, the promoter of the TT Races, confirmed on Wednesday that a clean emissions race would again take place on the TT Mountain Course, as part of the 2010 TT Races programme.
The clean emissions race in 2009 has been widely credited with accelerating the development of clean emissions transport and many of the technical innovations that were introduced in the Isle of Man are expected to become an integral part of future mass market transport.
The event was conceived with the support and involvement of numerous Departments of the Isle of Man Government as part of the Island’s Freedom to Flourish programme.
The 2010 clean emissions race on the Isle of Man has been renamed ‘TT Zero’ and the race will become part of the core TT programme. It will feature riders who are also competing in the other TT classes. The one lap race will be open to clean emission motorcycles and will take place on Wednesday June 9.
As with the core TT Races programme TT Zero will be run by ACU Events Ltd, using the latest FIM regulations. However TTXGP Ltd, who promoted the 2009 event, will not be involved and the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Tourism and Leisure will become the race promoter for the clean emissions race as well as the core TT Races programme.
As well as the usual prize money available to teams and riders, the Isle of Man Government has also created a £10,000 prize fund for the first TT Zero Race team to record a 100mph lap (160.93km/h) around the 37 and 3/4 mile course. This landmark was achieved for the first time by a conventional bike in 1957, when Scotsman Bob McIntyre lapped the TT Course in 22 minutes 24.4 seconds for an overall average of 101.03mph. Rob Barber and Team Agni recorded a fastest lap time of 25 minutes 53.5 seconds (87.434mph) in the 2009 clean emissions race.
Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, commented: “We have enjoyed a very successful partnership with TTXGP Ltd and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their hard work last year. We look forward to welcoming many of the electric bike teams and riders back to the Isle of Man in 2010 as well as to seeing new challengers pitting their wits against the Mountain Course.”
Regulations and entry forms for the TT Zero Race will be released on Friday, Jan. 29 and the forms will only be available in electronic format, and can be downloaded from the official Isle of Man TT Web Site, iomtt.com. The closing date for entries has been set as Friday, March 26.
Following the success of the inaugural clean emissions motorcycle race on the Isle of Man in 2009, the Isle of Man Government Department of Tourism and Leisure, the promoter of the TT Races, confirmed on Wednesday that a clean emissions race would again take place on the TT Mountain Course, as part of the 2010 TT Races programme.
The clean emissions race in 2009 has been widely credited with accelerating the development of clean emissions transport and many of the technical innovations that were introduced in the Isle of Man are expected to become an integral part of future mass market transport.
The event was conceived with the support and involvement of numerous Departments of the Isle of Man Government as part of the Island’s Freedom to Flourish programme.
The 2010 clean emissions race on the Isle of Man has been renamed ‘TT Zero’ and the race will become part of the core TT programme. It will feature riders who are also competing in the other TT classes. The one lap race will be open to clean emission motorcycles and will take place on Wednesday June 9.
As with the core TT Races programme TT Zero will be run by ACU Events Ltd, using the latest FIM regulations. However TTXGP Ltd, who promoted the 2009 event, will not be involved and the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Tourism and Leisure will become the race promoter for the clean emissions race as well as the core TT Races programme.
As well as the usual prize money available to teams and riders, the Isle of Man Government has also created a £10,000 prize fund for the first TT Zero Race team to record a 100mph lap (160.93km/h) around the 37 and 3/4 mile course. This landmark was achieved for the first time by a conventional bike in 1957, when Scotsman Bob McIntyre lapped the TT Course in 22 minutes 24.4 seconds for an overall average of 101.03mph. Rob Barber and Team Agni recorded a fastest lap time of 25 minutes 53.5 seconds (87.434mph) in the 2009 clean emissions race.
Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, commented: “We have enjoyed a very successful partnership with TTXGP Ltd and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their hard work last year. We look forward to welcoming many of the electric bike teams and riders back to the Isle of Man in 2010 as well as to seeing new challengers pitting their wits against the Mountain Course.”
Regulations and entry forms for the TT Zero Race will be released on Friday, Jan. 29 and the forms will only be available in electronic format, and can be downloaded from the official Isle of Man TT Web Site, iomtt.com. The closing date for entries has been set as Friday, March 26.
Major ice race in Oshawa
From the Canadian Motorcycle Association
HAMILTON, ON -- An exciting indoor ice racing event will take place at General Motors Center in Oshawa, ON on Saturday, Jan. 30.
Featuring Speedway bikes and quads, the race is part of a North American tour promoted by Extreme International Ice LLC, which is headquartered in Saint Peters, MO.
The programme starts at 7:30 pm.
A second Canadian round will be held in Kitchener, ON on Feb. 27.
HAMILTON, ON -- An exciting indoor ice racing event will take place at General Motors Center in Oshawa, ON on Saturday, Jan. 30.
Featuring Speedway bikes and quads, the race is part of a North American tour promoted by Extreme International Ice LLC, which is headquartered in Saint Peters, MO.
The programme starts at 7:30 pm.
A second Canadian round will be held in Kitchener, ON on Feb. 27.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Silverstone work on track
From motogp.com
Work is well underway and on course for completion on the spectacular new facilities that will greet motorcycling fans at the 2010 British Grand Prix.
MotoGP will visit Silverstone for the weekend of June 18-20 to be greeted by a new Arena Grand Prix circuit and improved spectator viewing facilities, and work on the developments is on course for its scheduled completion in early March.
Returning to the Northamptonshire circuit for the first time since 1986, MotoGP will benefit from dramatic new updates which are currently in progress on both the circuit and venue.
The modifications to the track will make Silverstone one of the fastest circuits on the MotoGP calendar in 2010, with the new layout increasing the track length to 5.6km. Improvements to spectator viewing areas will see a number of elevated viewing banks, as well as existing grandstands and fence lines being moved to bring fans closer to the action on the track.
Work is well underway and on course for completion on the spectacular new facilities that will greet motorcycling fans at the 2010 British Grand Prix.
MotoGP will visit Silverstone for the weekend of June 18-20 to be greeted by a new Arena Grand Prix circuit and improved spectator viewing facilities, and work on the developments is on course for its scheduled completion in early March.
Returning to the Northamptonshire circuit for the first time since 1986, MotoGP will benefit from dramatic new updates which are currently in progress on both the circuit and venue.
The modifications to the track will make Silverstone one of the fastest circuits on the MotoGP calendar in 2010, with the new layout increasing the track length to 5.6km. Improvements to spectator viewing areas will see a number of elevated viewing banks, as well as existing grandstands and fence lines being moved to bring fans closer to the action on the track.
Spain and Italy lead MotoGP entry
By John Hopkins
with files from motogp.com
Seventeen riders representing seven countries appear on the proivisional entry list for the 2010 MotoGP World Championship, which was released by the FIM on Wednesday.
The list includes five newcomers, led by World Superbike champion Ben Spies on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Honda team and Interwetten Honda's Hiroshi Aoyama, the last ever 250cc World Champion.
Also stepping up from last year's 250 ranks are Alvaro Bautista (Rizla Suzuki), Hector Barbera (Aspar Ducati) and Marco Simoncelli (San Carlo Gresini Honda).
Not surprisingly, the entry is dominated by Spanish and Italian riders, with each country represented by five competitors. The field is filled out by three Americans, and single representatives from Japan, France, Finland and Australia.
2010 MotoGP Entry List
4. ANDREA DOVIZIOSO (ITALIAN) REPSOL HONDA TEAM, HONDA
5. COLIN EDWARDS (USA) MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
7. HIROSHI AOYAMA (JAPANESE) INTERWETTEN HONDA MOTOGP, HONDA
11. BEN SPIES (USA) MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
14. RANDY DE PUNIET (FRENCH) LCR HONDA MOTOGP, HONDA
19. ALVARO BAUTISTA (SPANISH) RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP, SUZUKI
26. DANI PEDROSA (SPANISH) REPSOL HONDA TEAM, HONDA
27. CASEY STONER (AUSTRALIAN) DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM, DUCATI
33. MARCO MELANDRI (ITALIAN) SAN CARLO HONDA GRESINI, HONDA
36. MIKA KALLIO (FINNISH) PRAMAC RACING TEAM, DUCATI
40. HECTOR BARBERA (SPANISH) ASPAR MOTOGP TEAM, DUCATI
41. ALEIX ESPARGARO (SPANISH) PRAMAC RACING TEAM, DUCATI
46. VALENTINO ROSSI (ITALIAN) FIAT YAMAHA TEAM, YAMAHA
58. MARCO SIMONCELLI (ITALIAN) SAN CARLO HONDA GRESINI, HONDA
65. LORIS CAPIROSSI (ITALIAN) RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP, SUZUKI
69. NICKY HAYDEN (USA) DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM, DUCATI
99. JORGE LORENZO (SPANISH) FIAT YAMAHA TEAM, YAMAHA
with files from motogp.com
Seventeen riders representing seven countries appear on the proivisional entry list for the 2010 MotoGP World Championship, which was released by the FIM on Wednesday.
The list includes five newcomers, led by World Superbike champion Ben Spies on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Honda team and Interwetten Honda's Hiroshi Aoyama, the last ever 250cc World Champion.
Also stepping up from last year's 250 ranks are Alvaro Bautista (Rizla Suzuki), Hector Barbera (Aspar Ducati) and Marco Simoncelli (San Carlo Gresini Honda).
Not surprisingly, the entry is dominated by Spanish and Italian riders, with each country represented by five competitors. The field is filled out by three Americans, and single representatives from Japan, France, Finland and Australia.
2010 MotoGP Entry List
4. ANDREA DOVIZIOSO (ITALIAN) REPSOL HONDA TEAM, HONDA
5. COLIN EDWARDS (USA) MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
7. HIROSHI AOYAMA (JAPANESE) INTERWETTEN HONDA MOTOGP, HONDA
11. BEN SPIES (USA) MONSTER YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
14. RANDY DE PUNIET (FRENCH) LCR HONDA MOTOGP, HONDA
19. ALVARO BAUTISTA (SPANISH) RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP, SUZUKI
26. DANI PEDROSA (SPANISH) REPSOL HONDA TEAM, HONDA
27. CASEY STONER (AUSTRALIAN) DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM, DUCATI
33. MARCO MELANDRI (ITALIAN) SAN CARLO HONDA GRESINI, HONDA
36. MIKA KALLIO (FINNISH) PRAMAC RACING TEAM, DUCATI
40. HECTOR BARBERA (SPANISH) ASPAR MOTOGP TEAM, DUCATI
41. ALEIX ESPARGARO (SPANISH) PRAMAC RACING TEAM, DUCATI
46. VALENTINO ROSSI (ITALIAN) FIAT YAMAHA TEAM, YAMAHA
58. MARCO SIMONCELLI (ITALIAN) SAN CARLO HONDA GRESINI, HONDA
65. LORIS CAPIROSSI (ITALIAN) RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP, SUZUKI
69. NICKY HAYDEN (USA) DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM, DUCATI
99. JORGE LORENZO (SPANISH) FIAT YAMAHA TEAM, YAMAHA
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Rain ruins Aprilia test
From worldsbk.com
Bad weather has brought an end to two days testing at Valencia for the Aprilia factory team.
On Tuesday a damp track and heavy cloud cover meant that Leon Camier was only able to complete five laps in the afternoon just to test the track conditions. On Wednesday, when track conditions looked like they were improving mid-morning, a violent downpour ruined everything and the Aprilia team packed up early.
"Unfortunately this time the weather was against us," declared Max Biaggi, "and this could be a problem because we didn't get the confirmation we were looking for. In addition our rivals will also be testing tomorrow, when it's expected to be sunny.
"Now the situation is a bit more complicated. We'll be testing in Australia before the race, but if there are any problems then it will be too late to do anything. I'm still optimistic however because I have every confidence in the work of the Aprilia engineers."
Bad weather has brought an end to two days testing at Valencia for the Aprilia factory team.
On Tuesday a damp track and heavy cloud cover meant that Leon Camier was only able to complete five laps in the afternoon just to test the track conditions. On Wednesday, when track conditions looked like they were improving mid-morning, a violent downpour ruined everything and the Aprilia team packed up early.
"Unfortunately this time the weather was against us," declared Max Biaggi, "and this could be a problem because we didn't get the confirmation we were looking for. In addition our rivals will also be testing tomorrow, when it's expected to be sunny.
"Now the situation is a bit more complicated. We'll be testing in Australia before the race, but if there are any problems then it will be too late to do anything. I'm still optimistic however because I have every confidence in the work of the Aprilia engineers."
Harley-Davidson joins the dark side
From Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada
CONCORD, ON – The new 2010 Custom Vehicle Operations Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycle trades the shine of chrome for a fade to black in its debut as the new, darker version of this truly exceptional Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycle.
Each motorcycle is serialized from one to 999, and displays a formidable array of blacked-out components, led by the serialized CB pod insert, the gloss black Rumble collection and the low-smoked windshield. The new CVO Ultra Classic adds leading-edge technology with a handlebar-mounted Road Tech zūmo 660 GPS Navigator and an integrated automatic lock system that now includes the ignition knob.
The CVO Ultra Classic is powered by a black and chrome Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110 engine and a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission, which is the largest-displacement V-Twin engine offered from the Factory by Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Besides the black powertrain, this menacing touring bike revels in all things dark with a Crimson Mist Black/Dark Slate and flame graphics base colour, and approximately 185 other unique black parts, components and accessories meticulously melded to form and function by the CVO team.
Among the main attractions on the dark road to CVO Ultra custom inspiration are the contrast chrome roulette wheels, Rumble Collection featuring nine gloss black accessories from mirrors to saddlebag latch covers, black engine and saddlebag guards, and diamond black gauge faces. All of these deeply dark features combine to make the Ultra Classic bike into an inspired motorcycle that could only come from the Harley-Davidson CVO team.
The CVO Ultra Classic presents a lower profile up front with a 6.5-inch smoked windshield and adds premium Touring features like an anti-lock braking system (ABS), LED saddlebag lights, Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), a six-gallon fuel tank, Brembo brakes and a 160-watt CD/AM/FM/WB/MP3 Advanced Audio System by Harman-Kardon, CB and intercom, and passenger audio with controls, cruise control, plus standard XM Radio.
The CVO Ultra Classic is built on the innovative Touring chassis introduced by Harley-Davidson in 2009, based on a single-spar, rigid backbone frame and swingarm, specifically developed to suit the needs of long-haul touring rides.
This model has a suggested Canadian Retail price of $43,359.
CONCORD, ON – The new 2010 Custom Vehicle Operations Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycle trades the shine of chrome for a fade to black in its debut as the new, darker version of this truly exceptional Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycle.
Each motorcycle is serialized from one to 999, and displays a formidable array of blacked-out components, led by the serialized CB pod insert, the gloss black Rumble collection and the low-smoked windshield. The new CVO Ultra Classic adds leading-edge technology with a handlebar-mounted Road Tech zūmo 660 GPS Navigator and an integrated automatic lock system that now includes the ignition knob.
The CVO Ultra Classic is powered by a black and chrome Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110 engine and a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission, which is the largest-displacement V-Twin engine offered from the Factory by Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Besides the black powertrain, this menacing touring bike revels in all things dark with a Crimson Mist Black/Dark Slate and flame graphics base colour, and approximately 185 other unique black parts, components and accessories meticulously melded to form and function by the CVO team.
Among the main attractions on the dark road to CVO Ultra custom inspiration are the contrast chrome roulette wheels, Rumble Collection featuring nine gloss black accessories from mirrors to saddlebag latch covers, black engine and saddlebag guards, and diamond black gauge faces. All of these deeply dark features combine to make the Ultra Classic bike into an inspired motorcycle that could only come from the Harley-Davidson CVO team.
The CVO Ultra Classic presents a lower profile up front with a 6.5-inch smoked windshield and adds premium Touring features like an anti-lock braking system (ABS), LED saddlebag lights, Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), a six-gallon fuel tank, Brembo brakes and a 160-watt CD/AM/FM/WB/MP3 Advanced Audio System by Harman-Kardon, CB and intercom, and passenger audio with controls, cruise control, plus standard XM Radio.
The CVO Ultra Classic is built on the innovative Touring chassis introduced by Harley-Davidson in 2009, based on a single-spar, rigid backbone frame and swingarm, specifically developed to suit the needs of long-haul touring rides.
This model has a suggested Canadian Retail price of $43,359.
Lorenzo joins in Haiti relief
From motogp.com
MotoGP star Jorge Lorenzo has added his help to the unity being displayed towards victims of the Haiti earthquake, by supporting Oxfam’s efforts in assisting those who have been affected by the disaster.
Lorenzo has donated the golden Dainese boots which he wore during the 2008 season – in which he was Rookie of the Year – for auction.
Lorenzo stated: “Oxfam needs your donations in order to respond to this humanitarian crisis. The people of Haiti are in need and we cannot wait.”
MotoGP star Jorge Lorenzo has added his help to the unity being displayed towards victims of the Haiti earthquake, by supporting Oxfam’s efforts in assisting those who have been affected by the disaster.
Lorenzo has donated the golden Dainese boots which he wore during the 2008 season – in which he was Rookie of the Year – for auction.
Lorenzo stated: “Oxfam needs your donations in order to respond to this humanitarian crisis. The people of Haiti are in need and we cannot wait.”
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
F1 still in Rossi's future?
By John Hopkins
Valentino Rossi may look to make a move to Formula One when his current Yamaha MotoGP contract ends at the end of the 2010 season, in the opinion of his team boss Davide Brivio.
Brivio's comments come in the wake of a strong performance by the Italian seven-time MotoGP champ in tests with the Ferrari squad last week.
"I have to be worried about these excellent times because Valentino really could get the desire to change sports," Brivio was quoted as saying by the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
With the emergence of Jorge Lorenzo as a World Championship threat in the Yamaha team, there has been considerable speculation that Rossi could move to Ducati after the 2010 MotoGP season. However in the newspaper interview Brivio indicated that Ferrari, not Ducati, is the Italian company that may pull Rossi away from the Yamaha squad.
"The greatest danger is Ferrari," Brivio is quoted as saying.
Rossi has said that it is too late for him to contemplate a switch to Formula One.
Valentino Rossi may look to make a move to Formula One when his current Yamaha MotoGP contract ends at the end of the 2010 season, in the opinion of his team boss Davide Brivio.
Brivio's comments come in the wake of a strong performance by the Italian seven-time MotoGP champ in tests with the Ferrari squad last week.
"I have to be worried about these excellent times because Valentino really could get the desire to change sports," Brivio was quoted as saying by the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
With the emergence of Jorge Lorenzo as a World Championship threat in the Yamaha team, there has been considerable speculation that Rossi could move to Ducati after the 2010 MotoGP season. However in the newspaper interview Brivio indicated that Ferrari, not Ducati, is the Italian company that may pull Rossi away from the Yamaha squad.
"The greatest danger is Ferrari," Brivio is quoted as saying.
Rossi has said that it is too late for him to contemplate a switch to Formula One.
SOAR date added to Women's Cup
From Orion Motorsports
TORONTO, ON -- The Pro Honda Chemicals & Oil's Women’s Cup Challenge has announced its 2010 schedule.
The Women’s Cup Challenge (WCC) will once again play a key support role at both the ICAR and Mosport rounds of the Parts Canada Superbike series. In addition, the WCC will, for the first time, run in conjunction with a SOAR event taking place at Toronto Motorsports Park. Shannonville Motorsports Park will host the finale on the Canadian Labour Day weekend.
The complete schedule is as follows:
Round 1 - May 14-16 - Shannonville (Long Track) WCC RACE School on Friday
Round 2 - May 28-30 - ICAR/Mirabel
Round 3 - June 11-13 - Toronto Motorsports Park
Round 4 - July 8-11 - Mosport International Raceway
Round 5 - July 24-25 - Tentative (TBA)
Round 6 - Sept. 3-5 - Shannonville (Long Track)
"Pro Honda Chemicals & Oils is pleased to continue as the title sponsor for the WCC," said Ray Chong, Customer Service Marketing and Development- PHD & MC/PE Honda Canada Inc. "It is our pleasure to be a part of such an exciting Canadian series. We have seen some incredible battles over the past years and look forward to an eventful 2010. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all riders in this upcoming season the best of luck."
Pirelli tires are the spec tire for the WCC and will remain so for 2010.
"Pirelli tires is extremely proud of this unique series and what the women within it have accomplished over the past few seasons," said Kevin Graham, President of Orion Motorsports - Canada's Pirelli racing distributor and supplier to the Parts Canada Superbike series. "We now have three Pro licensed racers competing at the highest levels in Canada, with lots of up and coming talent."
The WCC was established in 2005 and has since become the premier women's road racing series in North America. For further information, please visit www.womenscup.ca.
TORONTO, ON -- The Pro Honda Chemicals & Oil's Women’s Cup Challenge has announced its 2010 schedule.
The Women’s Cup Challenge (WCC) will once again play a key support role at both the ICAR and Mosport rounds of the Parts Canada Superbike series. In addition, the WCC will, for the first time, run in conjunction with a SOAR event taking place at Toronto Motorsports Park. Shannonville Motorsports Park will host the finale on the Canadian Labour Day weekend.
The complete schedule is as follows:
Round 1 - May 14-16 - Shannonville (Long Track) WCC RACE School on Friday
Round 2 - May 28-30 - ICAR/Mirabel
Round 3 - June 11-13 - Toronto Motorsports Park
Round 4 - July 8-11 - Mosport International Raceway
Round 5 - July 24-25 - Tentative (TBA)
Round 6 - Sept. 3-5 - Shannonville (Long Track)
"Pro Honda Chemicals & Oils is pleased to continue as the title sponsor for the WCC," said Ray Chong, Customer Service Marketing and Development- PHD & MC/PE Honda Canada Inc. "It is our pleasure to be a part of such an exciting Canadian series. We have seen some incredible battles over the past years and look forward to an eventful 2010. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all riders in this upcoming season the best of luck."
Pirelli tires are the spec tire for the WCC and will remain so for 2010.
"Pirelli tires is extremely proud of this unique series and what the women within it have accomplished over the past few seasons," said Kevin Graham, President of Orion Motorsports - Canada's Pirelli racing distributor and supplier to the Parts Canada Superbike series. "We now have three Pro licensed racers competing at the highest levels in Canada, with lots of up and coming talent."
The WCC was established in 2005 and has since become the premier women's road racing series in North America. For further information, please visit www.womenscup.ca.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Harley-Davidson releases new Sportster
From Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada
CONCORD, ON – The new Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight motorcycle is a Factory custom bike in the legendary tradition of the hot rod Sportster line with the raw, elemental appeal of the Dark Custom bikes.
Riding low with a slammed suspension and featuring the classic 2.1-gallon “peanut” fuel tank, the Forty-Eight model backs up its “bulldog” appearance with the performance of its blacked-out and polished rubber-mounted Evolution 1200cc V-Twin engine. The low solo seat, under-mounted mirrors, side-mount licence plate, clean rear fender and tall and fat front tire emphasize the Forty-Eight motorcycle’s focus on chiselled customization.
“With its classic ‘bulldog shoulders’ stance, the Forty-Eight strikes a distinctive look and low profile that could only come from Harley-Davidson,” said Ray Drea, Senior Director of Styling at Harley-Davidson. “The Forty-Eight model has a collective past-life experience and broken-in look that is raw and authentic.”
As a Harley-Davidson Dark Custom motorcycle, the Forty-Eight bike is ready to ride as a radical custom and is also primed to take on its rider’s character and personality. Dark Custom accomplices of the Forty-Eight bike include the Nightster, Iron 883, Cross Bones, Fat Bob, and Street Bob models. Check out more on Dark Custom motorcycles at www.harleycanada.com.
With Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and performance tuning with a broad torque curve, the Forty-Eight motorcycle delivers a powerfully responsive ride with smooth clutch effort. The pipes on the chrome shorty dual exhaust pound out the distinctive Harley-Davidson American V-Twin sound.
The Forty-Eight model embraces the street up front with forward foot controls, a low-profile custom handlebar, under-mounted mirrors, fork-mounted turn signals, a slammed speedometer mounting bracket, and a fork brace with lightening holes. A unique dual texture solo seat with a height of 26 inches fits the lone rider, while a passenger pillion, footpegs, and a backrest are some of the many accessories that can be added.
The Forty-Eight model comes in Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver and Mirage Orange Pearl colours, and with a Canadian suggested retail price of $12,479 for black and $12,819 for pearl colours, it will be available soon at Harley-Davidson Retail locations across Canada.
CONCORD, ON – The new Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight motorcycle is a Factory custom bike in the legendary tradition of the hot rod Sportster line with the raw, elemental appeal of the Dark Custom bikes.
Riding low with a slammed suspension and featuring the classic 2.1-gallon “peanut” fuel tank, the Forty-Eight model backs up its “bulldog” appearance with the performance of its blacked-out and polished rubber-mounted Evolution 1200cc V-Twin engine. The low solo seat, under-mounted mirrors, side-mount licence plate, clean rear fender and tall and fat front tire emphasize the Forty-Eight motorcycle’s focus on chiselled customization.
“With its classic ‘bulldog shoulders’ stance, the Forty-Eight strikes a distinctive look and low profile that could only come from Harley-Davidson,” said Ray Drea, Senior Director of Styling at Harley-Davidson. “The Forty-Eight model has a collective past-life experience and broken-in look that is raw and authentic.”
As a Harley-Davidson Dark Custom motorcycle, the Forty-Eight bike is ready to ride as a radical custom and is also primed to take on its rider’s character and personality. Dark Custom accomplices of the Forty-Eight bike include the Nightster, Iron 883, Cross Bones, Fat Bob, and Street Bob models. Check out more on Dark Custom motorcycles at www.harleycanada.com.
With Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and performance tuning with a broad torque curve, the Forty-Eight motorcycle delivers a powerfully responsive ride with smooth clutch effort. The pipes on the chrome shorty dual exhaust pound out the distinctive Harley-Davidson American V-Twin sound.
The Forty-Eight model embraces the street up front with forward foot controls, a low-profile custom handlebar, under-mounted mirrors, fork-mounted turn signals, a slammed speedometer mounting bracket, and a fork brace with lightening holes. A unique dual texture solo seat with a height of 26 inches fits the lone rider, while a passenger pillion, footpegs, and a backrest are some of the many accessories that can be added.
The Forty-Eight model comes in Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver and Mirage Orange Pearl colours, and with a Canadian suggested retail price of $12,479 for black and $12,819 for pearl colours, it will be available soon at Harley-Davidson Retail locations across Canada.
Rea ends Superbike test on top
From worldsbk.com
Jonathan Rea powered to the best time at the end of the three-day Infront Motor Sports official Superbike test session at Portimao in Portugal on Sunday. The Northern Ireland youngster’s time of 1 minute 42.270 seconds was quicker even than Ben Spies’ 2009 pole mark for Yamaha.
The battle between Rea and his fellow-Brit Leon Haslam, who had been quickest on day one, continued right until the very end, the Suzuki Alstare man (pictured) ending up three-tenths behind. British rider domination continued with Shane Byrne taking his private Althea Ducati 1098 to third place in the timesheets, and with Cal Crutchlow, one of Yamaha Sterilgarda’s two new 2010 signings, in fourth.
In the final stages, after most of the top riders had used their soft tires normally reserved for Superpole, Michel Fabrizio (Ducati Xerox) found himself in fifth place with a time of 1:43.137 ahead of former double world champion James Toseland (Yamaha Sterilgarda), who returns to Superbike after a gap of two seasons.
Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing) was the only one of the leading runners not to go out on softer rubber and the Italian finished the test in seventh place with a time of 1:43.364, just ahead of 2009 runner-up Noriyuki Haga (Ducati Xerox), forced to slow with a technical problem during his quick lap.
“This test was a lot of fun," Rea said. "We worked through everything methodically and we are in good shape to begin the season. We got most of the big things like suspension spec, linkage and swing-arm teed off so now we can go to Phillip Island and fine-tune our racing.
"To say we are ready to go racing at Phillip Island, we’re not sure about that, but the bike is ready and now I plan to put the next three or four weeks to good use with my trainer and hopefully I’ll be ready. We’re all excited about the prospect of racing for a World Championship.”
Eugene Laverty (Honda Team Parkalgar) finally made the breakthrough he had been looking for in the three-day World Supersport test at Portimao as he knocked Spain’s Joan Lascorz off the top slot towards the end of the final session.
Last year’s championship runner-up lapped the Algarve circuit in 1:45.104, a fraction quicker than Lascorz’s lap record, set last October.
The Irishman was the only one of the leading group to improve in the sixth session and he ended up a tenth quicker than Lascorz, who had dominated Friday and Saturday. Third place, with a time of 1:45.587, went to an impressive Michele Pirro, the Italian putting in some serious lap time on his new Hannspree Ten Kate Honda mount. Team-mate Kenan Sofuoglu was unable to take part in the test as the Turk will still require more recovery time for his fractured left ankle.
Sixth place went to Chaz Davies on the Triumph 675 in 1:46.988, while on the same BE1 Racing machine American rookie Jason DiSalvo also eased his way into the picture with 10th quickest time of 1:47.054.
The 2010 Superbike winter tests will conclude at Phillip Island the week before the start of the season at the same circuit in Australia on Feb. 28. In the next few days however several teams, including BMW, Aprilia and Ducati, will be heading to Valencia for some extra testing.
Superbike Times
1. Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:42.270
2. Haslam L. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1:42.557
3. Byrne S. (GBR) Ducati 1098R 1:42.877
4. Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF-R1 1:42.960
5. Fabrizio M. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1:43.137
6. Toseland J. (GBR) Yamaha YZF-R1 1:43.157
7. Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1:43.364
8. Haga N. (JPN) Ducati 1098R 1:43.417
9. Neukirchner M. (GER) Honda CBR1000RR 1:43.471
10. Guintoli S. (FRA) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1:43.508
11. Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 1:43.629
12. Camier L. (GBR) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1:43.749
13. Corser T. (AUS) BMW S1000 RR 1:43.931
14. Vermeulen C. (AUS) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:44.108
15. Sykes T. (GBR) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:44.365
16. Xaus R. (ESP) BMW S1000 RR 1:44.570
Mission accomplished for Trahan in Dakar
By John Hopkins
Canadian Rally Raid competitor Patrick Trahan has described finishing the Dakar 2010 like "the Stanley Cup." Ten years after his debut in the world famous event the Montrealer placed 55th out of 88 finishers in the competition, which concluded in Buenos Aires last Saturday. It was his first finish in the race.
Trahan was riding a Honda CF450X in the gruelling two-week marathon, which took competitors through a wide variety of terrain in Argentina and Chile. This was the second year the event was run in South America as opposed to the African desert.
"The second part of the Dakar was excellent," Trahan said in an email, "especially in Chile, where there were huge sand dunes. Lots of people hated it, I loved it. It was almost easy for me; the 450X was amazing and was climbing everything. I passed a lot of big 690 KTMs in the soft dunes.
"In the dunes, I had a lot of fun. It got super hot towards the end of the rally, with temperatures of more than 48 degrees Celsius. But I kept riding so I could cool down. I had a bad day in a fast and slippery special, I even crashed hard again, but I was lucky and nothing happened to me or the bike."
Trahan was bothered through most of the event by a fuel feed problem.
"I had fuel problem all Dakar, even the last day in the last stages, my bike ran out of fuel four times, but it was just a pinched fuel line that I did not see," he explained.
Canadian Rally Raid competitor Patrick Trahan has described finishing the Dakar 2010 like "the Stanley Cup." Ten years after his debut in the world famous event the Montrealer placed 55th out of 88 finishers in the competition, which concluded in Buenos Aires last Saturday. It was his first finish in the race.
Trahan was riding a Honda CF450X in the gruelling two-week marathon, which took competitors through a wide variety of terrain in Argentina and Chile. This was the second year the event was run in South America as opposed to the African desert.
"The second part of the Dakar was excellent," Trahan said in an email, "especially in Chile, where there were huge sand dunes. Lots of people hated it, I loved it. It was almost easy for me; the 450X was amazing and was climbing everything. I passed a lot of big 690 KTMs in the soft dunes.
"In the dunes, I had a lot of fun. It got super hot towards the end of the rally, with temperatures of more than 48 degrees Celsius. But I kept riding so I could cool down. I had a bad day in a fast and slippery special, I even crashed hard again, but I was lucky and nothing happened to me or the bike."
Trahan was bothered through most of the event by a fuel feed problem.
"I had fuel problem all Dakar, even the last day in the last stages, my bike ran out of fuel four times, but it was just a pinched fuel line that I did not see," he explained.
"That last day, I finished almost last, but I finished. I was very, very happy for me and for all my sponsors when I finally touched the Dakar medal, something I have been seeing for the past 10 years. For me it is like the Stanley Cup."
Trahan was one of two Canadians out of the 170 motorcycle competitors to take the start. KTM rider Don Hatton of Duncan, BC was forced to retire early on due to extreme fatigue. Former motorcycle competitor Lawrence Hacking had entered a truck in the four-wheeled portion of the Dakar but was also an early casualty due to engine maladies.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Szoke named Motorcycle Racer of the Year
From Inside Track Communications
TORONTO, ON -- For the second year in a row road racing champion Jordan Szoke of Brantford, Ont. has been selected Motorcycle Racer of the Year in the Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards.
The 31-year-old won his fourth straight titles in the Parts Canada Superbike Championship and Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike Championship in 2009. The Superbike crown was the sixth of his career, tying Szoke with Steve Crevier for the most national championships in the 30-year history of the series.
Szoke was presented with his award on the Canadian Tire Stage of the Canadian Motorsports Expo at Toronto’s International Centre on Saturday evening. Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards were presented in 13 categories.
Amateur Motocross champion Dean Wilson was selected as Up and Coming Motorcycle Racer of the Year in the poll, which was conducted through Inside Track Motorsport News.
"It's always nice to be recognized by the fans,” Szoke said. “Canadian motorsports enthusiasts are some of the most knowledgeable in the world and I thank the readers of Inside Track for selecting me as Motorcycle Racer of the Year."
Szoke was also chosen Motorcycle Racer of the Year in 2006. He has now tied motocross star Jean Sebastien Roy for the most Readers’ Choice Awards in that category since the awards were created in 2002.
"We had an unbelievable year in 2009,” Szoke added. “Winning two national championships for the fourth year in a row is really hard to believe and tying Steve Crevier for the most Superbike titles is an achievement I'm particularly proud of.”
In addition to his road racing accomplishments, Szoke also won the Canadian Motorcycle Association’s national Trials title and represented Canada at the Trials des Nations in Italy last October.
Canadian Motocross champion Colton Facciotti of Aldergrove, B.C. was the runner-up in Motorcycle Racer of the Year voting.
The 17-year-old Wilson is the third straight motocross competitor to claim the Up and Coming Motorcycle Racer of the Year Award. The Scottish born rider claimed a pair of class victories in the famed Loretta Lynn’s Amateur Motocross Nationals in the United States last August and was the winner of the American Motorcyclist Association’s Horizon Award.
Last October Wilson starred for Canada in the Motocross of Nations in Italy. He was recently signed to the crack Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki team for the 2010 U.S. racing season.
“Both Jordan and Dean should be exceedingly proud of their accomplishments in 2009,” said John Hopkins, editor of Inside Motorcycles, a sister publication to Inside Track. “Jordan added to his legacy as one of the greatest competitors in our sport’s history with his performance this year and Dean has marked himself out as a true star of the future in the motocross ranks.”
The Canadian Motorsports Expo continues through Sunday at Toronto’s International Centre. Activities on the final day will include a stage appearance by Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon. For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.
Rea masters the wet at Portimao
From worldsbk.com
Jonathan Rea (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) set the fastest time on the second day of official World Superbike pre-season testing at Portimao on Saturday. On a day hit by bad weather and despite Friday’s finger-damaging crash, the 22-year-old Northern Irishman made all the difference both on the wet track in the morning and in the afternoon’s damp session on intermediate tires. Rea’s best lap was 1 minute 49.108 seconds, about seven seconds off Friday’s dry lap times.
Behind Rea, second place went to Leon Haslam, who continues to settle into his Suzuki Alstare team after dominating on Friday.
The surprise of the day, however, was Troy Corser, who took his BMW S1000RR to third with an excellent 1:49.606. Ruben Xaus also went well with seventh quickest time on the second BMW.
Cal Crutchlow continued his familiarization process on the Yamaha Sterilgarda machine in fourth, ahead of Tom Sykes, who went well in the wet on his Kawasaki.
Max Biaggi could only manage ninth on his Aprilia as he focused on engine reliability.
Both Ducati Xerox riders Noriyuki Haga and Michel Fabrizio are currently slightly down the timesheets, the Italian still down with a virus and not exactly 100 per cent fit.
Michele Pirro continues to make a positive impression on his new Hannspree Ten Kate Honda mount, the Italian powering to the quickest time in day two of Supersport testing. Pirro set a time of 1:47.168 on the damp track, four-tenths quicker than Spain’s Joan Lascorz, who was quickest in the dry on Friday. The Kawasaki Motocard.com man had a harmless crash in the early stages and failed to improve on a 1:47.527.
Eugene Laverty, who topped the timesheets in the wet morning run, slipped down to third, followed by his team-mate Miguel Praia.
Overall Superbike Times (Friday/Saturday)
1. Haslam L. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1:42.778
2. Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF-R1 1:42.960
3. Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1:43.033
4. Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1:43.364
5. Toseland J. (GBR) Yamaha YZF-R1 1:43.378
6. Byrne S. (GBR) Ducati 1098R 1:43.569
7. Haga N. (JPN) Ducati 1098R 1:43.574
8. Fabrizio M. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1:43.711
9. Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 1:43.870
10. Camier L. (GBR) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1:43.903
11. Guintoli S. (FRA) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1:44.283
12. Sykes T. (GBR) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:44.365
13. Corser T. (AUS) BMW S1000 RR 1:44.376
14. Neukirchner M. (GER) Honda CBR1000RR 1:44.453
15. Xaus R. (ESP) BMW S1000 RR 1:44.570
16. Vermeulen C. (AUS) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:44.576
17. Parkes B. (AUS) Honda CBR1000RR 1:44.751
18. Iannuzzo V. (ITA) Honda CBR1000RR 1:46.444
19. Fores J. (ESP) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:47.293
20. Hayden R. (USA) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1:48.317
Martinez receives Jerez honour
From motogp.com
The Jerez circuit has dedicated a turn to former rider and current team manager, Jorge 'Aspar' Martínez. Pilar Sánchez, Mayoress of the Andalusian city, made the announcement in Madrid during the launch of the Gran Premio bwin.com de España, which takes place on May 2.
“Jorge raced at our circuit many times and we wanted to give him this recognition,” said the Mayoress. “During the celebration of the GP we will organize an event to commemorate this – he deserves it. The whole city wanted this.”
The four-time World Champion and manager of Team Aspar, which will run teams in all three categories for the first time in 2010, was present and expressed his delight.
“It’s a great joy for me, because Jerez has always felt like a home,” said Martínez. “I was lucky to race in the streets of Jerez in 1981, and won the first Grand Prix that was contested here. The fans and atmosphere here are marvellous.”
‘Aspar’, who this week confirmed his Moto2 team will use an RSV chassis for the 2010 season, said the decision of which bike to opt for was not an easy one.
“It was a difficult choice, because we want to have the best chance of winning,” he said. “We tested many bikes and we waited until the last minute for Aprilia, but in the end the project was not possible. We think we have made a good choice and now we have work to do on the track.
"It will definitely be a closely matched category: therefore it’s important we have a technical team and riders who are very competitive in all Grands Prix.”
The Jerez circuit has dedicated a turn to former rider and current team manager, Jorge 'Aspar' Martínez. Pilar Sánchez, Mayoress of the Andalusian city, made the announcement in Madrid during the launch of the Gran Premio bwin.com de España, which takes place on May 2.
“Jorge raced at our circuit many times and we wanted to give him this recognition,” said the Mayoress. “During the celebration of the GP we will organize an event to commemorate this – he deserves it. The whole city wanted this.”
The four-time World Champion and manager of Team Aspar, which will run teams in all three categories for the first time in 2010, was present and expressed his delight.
“It’s a great joy for me, because Jerez has always felt like a home,” said Martínez. “I was lucky to race in the streets of Jerez in 1981, and won the first Grand Prix that was contested here. The fans and atmosphere here are marvellous.”
‘Aspar’, who this week confirmed his Moto2 team will use an RSV chassis for the 2010 season, said the decision of which bike to opt for was not an easy one.
“It was a difficult choice, because we want to have the best chance of winning,” he said. “We tested many bikes and we waited until the last minute for Aprilia, but in the end the project was not possible. We think we have made a good choice and now we have work to do on the track.
"It will definitely be a closely matched category: therefore it’s important we have a technical team and riders who are very competitive in all Grands Prix.”
Friday, January 22, 2010
New enduro series for Ontario
From DirtyBikes.ca
DirtyBikes.ca, the organizer of the 2009 and 2010 Ontario round of the Canadian Enduro Championship, has announced a new enduro series for the 2010 Ontario off road racing calendar, The Dirty Bikes Enduro Sprint Championship (DBESC).
An enduro sprint is a variation on the World Enduro Canada enduro format, with only the special tests being part of the course (i.e. no trail). This type of enduro has been very successful in other parts of the world. The DBESC is Ontario's first enduro sprint series. The new series will feature three rounds run over three weekends. During the first year events will take place the day before three WEC Cross Country events.
The DBESC welcomes enduro, cross-country and motocross riders. This series will be an excellent opportunity to try an FIM enduro and to prepare for the 2010 Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship presented by Parts Canada.
The dates and venues are: June 12, Burnt River; Aug. 21, Wingham; Oct. 9 Orillia.
To compete in the series a World Enduro Canada competition license will be required. They will be available online for $70 at www.worldendurocanada.com.
Detailed event information will be available soon on www.dirtybikes.ca.
DirtyBikes.ca, the organizer of the 2009 and 2010 Ontario round of the Canadian Enduro Championship, has announced a new enduro series for the 2010 Ontario off road racing calendar, The Dirty Bikes Enduro Sprint Championship (DBESC).
An enduro sprint is a variation on the World Enduro Canada enduro format, with only the special tests being part of the course (i.e. no trail). This type of enduro has been very successful in other parts of the world. The DBESC is Ontario's first enduro sprint series. The new series will feature three rounds run over three weekends. During the first year events will take place the day before three WEC Cross Country events.
The DBESC welcomes enduro, cross-country and motocross riders. This series will be an excellent opportunity to try an FIM enduro and to prepare for the 2010 Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship presented by Parts Canada.
The dates and venues are: June 12, Burnt River; Aug. 21, Wingham; Oct. 9 Orillia.
To compete in the series a World Enduro Canada competition license will be required. They will be available online for $70 at www.worldendurocanada.com.
Detailed event information will be available soon on www.dirtybikes.ca.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Rossi improves Ferrari test times
From motogp.com
Improved track conditions on Thursday afternoon allowed Valentino Rossi to cut almost three-and-a-half seconds off his Wednesday best lap, as the MotoGP World Champion finished a two-day test in a Ferrari F2008 at Circuit de Catalunya.
The afternoon was not without a minor hitch however as, after returning to the track at 1:53pm, the 30-year-old completed a handful of laps before two errors – almost identical to one another – at the entrance to the chicane, a section of the track not used in motorcycle racing.
“Turn 10 is difficult because it is too narrow,” said Rossi. “For sure it’s much better when we go through it with a bike.”
Rossi completed several sessions of between four and five laps, finally timing a best turn of 1:21.9 – interesting, given that it would have placed him at 18th on the grid in the 2008 Barcelona Grand Prix.
“Today we hoped to run in the dry, but we had to fit wet tires again this morning,” he said. “I was faster than yesterday despite some problems with understeering.
“I haven’t driven an F1 car for a year, but today we worked on the setting. It’s always interesting to go a little further than just driving. I think it’s nice for Italian fans to see me driving a Ferrari. On the other hand, I must say that Montmeló is even more fun than Mugello.”
Turning his attention to his future on two wheels, Rossi spoke about a possible renewal of his contract with Yamaha: “It’s a special situation because the four fastest riders in the World Championship are in the final year of their contracts. Personally, I’ll think about it around June and may have decided by then. I’m happy with Yamaha, so I want to talk with them before anyone else.”
Improved track conditions on Thursday afternoon allowed Valentino Rossi to cut almost three-and-a-half seconds off his Wednesday best lap, as the MotoGP World Champion finished a two-day test in a Ferrari F2008 at Circuit de Catalunya.
The afternoon was not without a minor hitch however as, after returning to the track at 1:53pm, the 30-year-old completed a handful of laps before two errors – almost identical to one another – at the entrance to the chicane, a section of the track not used in motorcycle racing.
“Turn 10 is difficult because it is too narrow,” said Rossi. “For sure it’s much better when we go through it with a bike.”
Rossi completed several sessions of between four and five laps, finally timing a best turn of 1:21.9 – interesting, given that it would have placed him at 18th on the grid in the 2008 Barcelona Grand Prix.
“Today we hoped to run in the dry, but we had to fit wet tires again this morning,” he said. “I was faster than yesterday despite some problems with understeering.
“I haven’t driven an F1 car for a year, but today we worked on the setting. It’s always interesting to go a little further than just driving. I think it’s nice for Italian fans to see me driving a Ferrari. On the other hand, I must say that Montmeló is even more fun than Mugello.”
Turning his attention to his future on two wheels, Rossi spoke about a possible renewal of his contract with Yamaha: “It’s a special situation because the four fastest riders in the World Championship are in the final year of their contracts. Personally, I’ll think about it around June and may have decided by then. I’m happy with Yamaha, so I want to talk with them before anyone else.”
Mercier and Bastedo to join Motorsports Hall of Fame
By John Hopkins
Former Superbike champion Michel Mercier and motorcycle industry stalwart Carl Bastedo are due to be inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame in April.
The two motorcycle heroes are among 13 names to join the Hall. They will be honoured at the Hall of Fame's official gala, which is scheduled for April 17 at the Sheraton Centre Toronto. The inductees were named in a press release from the organization on Wednesday.
Both have recently been inducted into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
A native of Thetford Mines, QC, Mercier won Canadian Superbike titles in 1986, 1987 and 1990 and he is one of only three racers (Steve Crevier and Jordan Szoke are the others) to claim three or more national titles. He won 12 Superbike nationals over his career, tying him for fourth on the all-time wins list.
Prior to his road racing exploits, Mercier won 12 CMA National ice racing titles between 1977 and 1982, and held the number one plate in the sport for five consecutive years.
Since retiring from racing after claiming his third Superbike crown in 1990, Mercier has focused on the FAST Racing School based out of Shannonville Motorsport Park, where he has trained many future road racing talents.
Bastedo has had a varied career in motorcycling over the past 50 years. He was a top motocross competitor as a teenager and represented Canada three times in the International Six Days Trial (now the International Six Days Enduro). He was also a successful motorcycle dealer and distributor representative and anchored Kawasaki's Canadian racing programs in the 1970s.
The native of Hamilton was also one of the founders of the Toronto Supercross, along with similar events in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver. Most recently he has managed Canada's entry in the Motocross of Nations and operates the Motopark MX and off road facility in Chatsworth, ON.
Others due for induction in April include road racers Wayne Kelly and Bill Adam, snowmobile competitors Gary and Bruce Vessair, drag racer F.J. Smith, oval track racer Norm Mackereth, ice racer Bill Le Feuvre, industry legends Doug Fairchild and Jim O'Donnell, Mosport Park track designer Alan Bunting and the Canadian Race Communications Association.
The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame will be housed in a new facility, currently under construction, at Parc Downsview Park, the press release said.
The Hall will have a display at this weekend's Canadian Motorsports Expo at Toronto's International Centre.
Former Superbike champion Michel Mercier and motorcycle industry stalwart Carl Bastedo are due to be inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame in April.
The two motorcycle heroes are among 13 names to join the Hall. They will be honoured at the Hall of Fame's official gala, which is scheduled for April 17 at the Sheraton Centre Toronto. The inductees were named in a press release from the organization on Wednesday.
Both have recently been inducted into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
A native of Thetford Mines, QC, Mercier won Canadian Superbike titles in 1986, 1987 and 1990 and he is one of only three racers (Steve Crevier and Jordan Szoke are the others) to claim three or more national titles. He won 12 Superbike nationals over his career, tying him for fourth on the all-time wins list.
Prior to his road racing exploits, Mercier won 12 CMA National ice racing titles between 1977 and 1982, and held the number one plate in the sport for five consecutive years.
Since retiring from racing after claiming his third Superbike crown in 1990, Mercier has focused on the FAST Racing School based out of Shannonville Motorsport Park, where he has trained many future road racing talents.
Bastedo has had a varied career in motorcycling over the past 50 years. He was a top motocross competitor as a teenager and represented Canada three times in the International Six Days Trial (now the International Six Days Enduro). He was also a successful motorcycle dealer and distributor representative and anchored Kawasaki's Canadian racing programs in the 1970s.
The native of Hamilton was also one of the founders of the Toronto Supercross, along with similar events in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver. Most recently he has managed Canada's entry in the Motocross of Nations and operates the Motopark MX and off road facility in Chatsworth, ON.
Others due for induction in April include road racers Wayne Kelly and Bill Adam, snowmobile competitors Gary and Bruce Vessair, drag racer F.J. Smith, oval track racer Norm Mackereth, ice racer Bill Le Feuvre, industry legends Doug Fairchild and Jim O'Donnell, Mosport Park track designer Alan Bunting and the Canadian Race Communications Association.
The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame will be housed in a new facility, currently under construction, at Parc Downsview Park, the press release said.
The Hall will have a display at this weekend's Canadian Motorsports Expo at Toronto's International Centre.
Welsh to make CME appearance
From Turn 2 Sportbike School
CALABOGIE, ON - Turn 2 Sportbike School will feature its all-new club level Turn 2 Moto Club Super Lap TT Series, presented by Kahuna Powersports, at the fourth annual Canadian Motorsports Expo (CME), being held at Toronto's International Centre on Jan. 22-24.
Based at Calabogie Motorsports Park, the Turn 2 Moto Club Super Lap TT Series adds another exciting element to Turn 2's existing Controlled Riding Group (CRG) program. Participants will focus on refining new skills and practicing good sportsmanship within a true club atmosphere. The series consists of 22 eligible events for the 2010 season.
To compete in this series, riders must be Turn 2 Moto Club members and be enrolled in any one of Turn 2's CRG track groups. Full details are available at https://turn2.ca/ti/t2/content/super_lap_tt.html.
"We're very proud to represent Calabogie Motorsports Park at this year's Canadian Motorsports Expo," said George Budacki, owner of Turn 2 Sportbike School. "This is our second year operating out of this world-class facility and we'll have some exciting news in the coming weeks about a few things we have in the works at Calabogie."
More than just a tradeshow, the CME is Canada's ultimate racing show that features a wide range of competition vehicles and includes appearances by many racing celebrities, including Canada's first family of motorcycle road racing - Miguel, Mario and Yvon Duhamel - plus NASCAR star Matt Kenseth, 'The Thrill from West Hill', IndyCar champion Paul Tracy and Canadian Le Mans 24-Hour winner Ron Fellows.
Watch for a special appearance at the Turn 2 Sportbike School Booth Saturday night by one of the hottest new talents in Canadian motorcycle road racing - Alex Welsh - courtesy of the Competition Systems Kawasaki Race Team.
Turn 2 Canadian Motorsports Expo Specials include:
1. First 10 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) sign-ups of each day receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership. Limited Offer: 10 per day only.
2.Purchase 1 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) Course with a Bike Rental at regular price and receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership, free RFID Timing, free Riding Gear Rental, free Class Photo and a free Premium Lunch. Limited Offer: 20 per day only.
3.Purchase 1 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) Course and 1 CRG Day with a Bike Rental for both days (scheduled back-to-back) at regular price and receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership, free RFID Timing, free Riding Gear rental, free Class Photo, free Premium Lunch and a 50% discount off second day bike rental fee. Limited Offer: 20 per day only.
For details, visit Turn 2 online at www.turn2.ca, and at the Canadian Motorsports Expo (www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com) Turn 2 Sportbike School booth.
Strong first day for Rossi
From motogp.com
Shortly before 5pm on Wednesday, MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi finished the first day’s testing in a 2008 Ferrari Formula 1 car with positive lap times recorded in the afternoon session at the Circuit de Catalunya.
Having experienced technical problems in the morning which shortened his opening period, Rossi again returned to the pits without completing the first lap of his afternoon outing. However, this time it was to change from wet tires to slicks as some afternoon sunshine began to improve what had been a wet track in the morning.
In good conditions, the 30-year-old registered a lap time of 1:35.5, almost seven seconds faster than his pre-1pm time. Improving further lap by lap, Rossi then set a best of 1:25.6, which compares well to Kimi Raikkonen’s qualifying record of 1:20.7 – set at the track in 2008.
“I’m very happy because it was a good test," Rossi said. "We had some problems with the track when it was wet, but in the afternoon on slicks we recorded some good times because the track was drying out.”
Rossi will return to Circuit de Catalunya on Thursday for a second day of testing.
Shortly before 5pm on Wednesday, MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi finished the first day’s testing in a 2008 Ferrari Formula 1 car with positive lap times recorded in the afternoon session at the Circuit de Catalunya.
Having experienced technical problems in the morning which shortened his opening period, Rossi again returned to the pits without completing the first lap of his afternoon outing. However, this time it was to change from wet tires to slicks as some afternoon sunshine began to improve what had been a wet track in the morning.
In good conditions, the 30-year-old registered a lap time of 1:35.5, almost seven seconds faster than his pre-1pm time. Improving further lap by lap, Rossi then set a best of 1:25.6, which compares well to Kimi Raikkonen’s qualifying record of 1:20.7 – set at the track in 2008.
“I’m very happy because it was a good test," Rossi said. "We had some problems with the track when it was wet, but in the afternoon on slicks we recorded some good times because the track was drying out.”
Rossi will return to Circuit de Catalunya on Thursday for a second day of testing.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
DiSalvo and Davies to race Triumphs
From Triumph Motorcycles
ATLANTA, GA – Triumph Motorcycles and BE1 Racing will enter four riders in the 2010 Supersport World Championship, including French two-time world champion Sebastien Charpentier, who returns to the series following a two-year absence.
The youthful ParkinGO Triumph Factory Team will consist of British rider Chaz Davies and American Jason DiSalvo, while Charpentier will be joined by Spaniard David Salom in the ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Racing squad. All four riders will be running identical BE1 Racing-prepared versions of Triumph’s award-winning three-cylinder Daytona 675 machine.
Davies, 22, a former winner of the famous Daytona 200 race, joined the squad for the final three races of 2009, scoring a fourth place finish first time out at Imola. Despite his relative youth, the Welshman has an impressive resume that includes five years spent in the MotoGP paddock and three spent in the highly competitive American AMA series.
“I love working with this team and am really motivated for the coming season," Davies said. "We’ve not won races yet, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t do so this season. We’ve already had a rigorous test in Valencia and have two more big tests planned in Portugal and Australia before the first race. I know Jason from my time racing in the States and I am sure that together we will make a good team.”
DiSalvo, 25, joins the official Triumph squad having spent the past eight years in the American national championships. With 10 wins and 50 podium finishes to his name, the New Yorker has been one of the leading lights on the American scene in recent years. Despite making his debut in the Supersport World Championship, DiSalvo is familiar with life in Europe, having spent the early part of his career racing in the British 125cc championship.
“I’m honoured to be considered by the ParkinGO Triumph Factory Team and to ride for them in World Supersport,” declared DiSalvo. “I’ve followed the series over the years and have had my eye on the Triumph for some time now and it looks like an awesome machine. It’ll be a good challenge, I’ve never ridden it before and it’ll be interesting to see what it’s like.
"People always asked me why I didn’t go and race in Europe before, but I didn’t want to unless it was in a top-level team. Now I am and I’m really pumped to be going.”
With two world titles and 13 race wins to his credit, Charpentier is the most successful rider in the history of the Supersport World Championship. The Frenchman was utterly dominant on his way to the 2005 and 2006 championships, but moved out of the championship following an injury-hit defense in 2007.
The 36-year-old has remained competitive by competing in the World Endurance Championship for the last two seasons and is highly motivated to return to the white hot environment of the Supersport World Championship with Triumph.
Spaniard Salom completes the quartet of Triumph riders. The 25-year-old from Mallorca joins the series following a season spent as a privateer in the superbike class, but has two seasons of World Supersport experience under his belt.
There will be no place in the line-up for Garry McCoy. The Australian had been expected to take his place alongside Davies but has left the team by mutual consent.
“I'm very sorry that Garry McCoy and my team didn't reach an agreement, and I thank him for his determination and expertise, and for the good results achieved in 2009," said BE1 Racing team owner Giuliano Rovelli. "I do wish Garry all the best for his career in the future. Anyway, I'm fully satisfied with this new team in the Supersport World Championship. We have three young talented riders and one very skilled world champion, all of them extremely motivated in doing their best.”
Triumph’s four World Supersport competitors will make their first appearance of 2010 at this weekend’s Infront test at the Portimao circuit in Portugal.
ATLANTA, GA – Triumph Motorcycles and BE1 Racing will enter four riders in the 2010 Supersport World Championship, including French two-time world champion Sebastien Charpentier, who returns to the series following a two-year absence.
The youthful ParkinGO Triumph Factory Team will consist of British rider Chaz Davies and American Jason DiSalvo, while Charpentier will be joined by Spaniard David Salom in the ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Racing squad. All four riders will be running identical BE1 Racing-prepared versions of Triumph’s award-winning three-cylinder Daytona 675 machine.
Davies, 22, a former winner of the famous Daytona 200 race, joined the squad for the final three races of 2009, scoring a fourth place finish first time out at Imola. Despite his relative youth, the Welshman has an impressive resume that includes five years spent in the MotoGP paddock and three spent in the highly competitive American AMA series.
“I love working with this team and am really motivated for the coming season," Davies said. "We’ve not won races yet, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t do so this season. We’ve already had a rigorous test in Valencia and have two more big tests planned in Portugal and Australia before the first race. I know Jason from my time racing in the States and I am sure that together we will make a good team.”
DiSalvo, 25, joins the official Triumph squad having spent the past eight years in the American national championships. With 10 wins and 50 podium finishes to his name, the New Yorker has been one of the leading lights on the American scene in recent years. Despite making his debut in the Supersport World Championship, DiSalvo is familiar with life in Europe, having spent the early part of his career racing in the British 125cc championship.
“I’m honoured to be considered by the ParkinGO Triumph Factory Team and to ride for them in World Supersport,” declared DiSalvo. “I’ve followed the series over the years and have had my eye on the Triumph for some time now and it looks like an awesome machine. It’ll be a good challenge, I’ve never ridden it before and it’ll be interesting to see what it’s like.
"People always asked me why I didn’t go and race in Europe before, but I didn’t want to unless it was in a top-level team. Now I am and I’m really pumped to be going.”
With two world titles and 13 race wins to his credit, Charpentier is the most successful rider in the history of the Supersport World Championship. The Frenchman was utterly dominant on his way to the 2005 and 2006 championships, but moved out of the championship following an injury-hit defense in 2007.
The 36-year-old has remained competitive by competing in the World Endurance Championship for the last two seasons and is highly motivated to return to the white hot environment of the Supersport World Championship with Triumph.
Spaniard Salom completes the quartet of Triumph riders. The 25-year-old from Mallorca joins the series following a season spent as a privateer in the superbike class, but has two seasons of World Supersport experience under his belt.
There will be no place in the line-up for Garry McCoy. The Australian had been expected to take his place alongside Davies but has left the team by mutual consent.
“I'm very sorry that Garry McCoy and my team didn't reach an agreement, and I thank him for his determination and expertise, and for the good results achieved in 2009," said BE1 Racing team owner Giuliano Rovelli. "I do wish Garry all the best for his career in the future. Anyway, I'm fully satisfied with this new team in the Supersport World Championship. We have three young talented riders and one very skilled world champion, all of them extremely motivated in doing their best.”
Triumph’s four World Supersport competitors will make their first appearance of 2010 at this weekend’s Infront test at the Portimao circuit in Portugal.
Rossi back in F1 Ferrari
From motogp.com
Nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi will commence a two-day test in a Ferrari F1 car at Montmeló on Wednesday.
The test at the Spanish track will be conducted in a Ferrari F2008 equipped with GP2 slicks.
This will be the sixth time Rossi will have been at the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car, having first driven one in 2004.
Nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi will commence a two-day test in a Ferrari F1 car at Montmeló on Wednesday.
The test at the Spanish track will be conducted in a Ferrari F2008 equipped with GP2 slicks.
This will be the sixth time Rossi will have been at the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car, having first driven one in 2004.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
AMRA makes Mosport stop
By John Hopkins
A visit to Mosport International Raceway highlights the 2010 Alberta Mini Roadracing Association national schedule.
The Mosport stop on July 8-13 will be the fourth round of the six-race championship and coincides with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship visit.
The AMRA will also share time with the national Superbike tour at Race City Motorsport Park June 24-27, the third round of the mini roadracing series.
The AMRA has developed a close connection with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship through the Honda CBR125R Challenge, having graduated a number of competitors to the Honda class. The two series shared the billing at last year's Race City event.
The AMRA national campaign opens May 22-23 in Martensville, SK before moving on to Lumsden, SK June 12-13. After Mosport the series goes to Quesnel, BC on July 22-23 and Chilliwack, BC for the July 31-Aug. 1 season finale.
More details are available at www.amra.ca.
A visit to Mosport International Raceway highlights the 2010 Alberta Mini Roadracing Association national schedule.
The Mosport stop on July 8-13 will be the fourth round of the six-race championship and coincides with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship visit.
The AMRA will also share time with the national Superbike tour at Race City Motorsport Park June 24-27, the third round of the mini roadracing series.
The AMRA has developed a close connection with the Parts Canada Superbike Championship through the Honda CBR125R Challenge, having graduated a number of competitors to the Honda class. The two series shared the billing at last year's Race City event.
The AMRA national campaign opens May 22-23 in Martensville, SK before moving on to Lumsden, SK June 12-13. After Mosport the series goes to Quesnel, BC on July 22-23 and Chilliwack, BC for the July 31-Aug. 1 season finale.
More details are available at www.amra.ca.
Kruger returns to Chinese series
By IM staff
Canadian Dan Kruger has signed on again with Titanic Kawasaki (Hong Kong’s exclusive Kawasaki distributor) to race the China Pan Delta Series for 2010 sponsored by Red Bull. He will ride a Kawasaki ZX-10R in the premier class.
Kruger suffered some health issues in early December and was told he could not travel to Asia to compete in the Petronas Asia GP final round last December. But things are improving and Kruger is training hard under the direction of former Daytona 200 winner David Sadowski (pictured with Kruger) and BG Racing. The first race is March 19-21 at Zhuhai and Kruger is currently in Asia training and testing some new Kawasaki equipment.
“I really got into a good groove towards the end of 2009 and my times went way down thanks to 'Ski' and the track support of Steven (Boss of BG)," Kruger said. "I had some new kit Kawasaki Japan parts flown in that really improved the bike along with some secret mapping programs borrowed from a secret GP team. My health issues are a bit of a mystery but seem to be getting better each week. I am training again and feel a lot better.
"We have everything in place to win the Pan Delta Championship for 2010 and our lap times are still dropping. Zhuhai is a interesting track because it is long, fast and takes time to get up to speed on. I have put hundreds and hundreds of laps on it so I have most of it figured out. As with all racing, good sponsors are key and I definitely have that covered. Kawasaki and BG have been very supportive and I also have a list of Chinese factories that contribute financially so in terms of the overall package, we are set.
"There is talk that we might have a round at the Shanghai International Circuit this season where the MotoGP bikes compete. It is a world class track like Zhuhai and they are also ready to add Guangzhou at some point as well. As with just about everything in China, racing is becoming more popular and there are some world class competitors that use the series as a stepping stone to World Supersport. Gino Rea recently came over from the United Kingdom and got a ride with Red Rooster out of India."
Kruger's efforts will be backed by Titanic Kawasaki, BG Performance, Ohlins, Michelin, Arlen Ness, Brembo, Suomy, EK, Digimax and T-Max, among others.
Carr and Manning at museum fundraiser
From the American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, OH -- What's it like to ride in the cockpit of a streamlined motorcycle at more than 367 mph for 30 seconds? What's it like to work at building the machine capable of such a feat for 30 years?
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is pleased to announce that fans of motorcycling can go straight to the source for the answers to both questions at the 22nd Annual AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum Breakfast at Daytona this March 5.
The guests of honour at the fundraising event will be the world's fastest motorcyclist, Chris Carr, and the builder of the world's fastest motorcycle, Denis Manning. The current land-speed record holders and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers will be on hand to talk about their feat and answer attendees' questions.
Held on the Friday following the second race of the AMA Pro Flat Track doubleheader at the new Daytona Flat Track facility where Carr will begin his 26th year of competition in that discipline, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum Breakfast at Daytona will be from 8-10:30 a.m. at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, 100 North Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32118.
Tickets are $49 per person prior to Feb. 15 and $55 at the door. For ticket information, call (800) AMA-JOIN and ask for extension 1234.
"There are few achievements in motorcycling that capture our imagination like the absolute motorcycle land-speed record," said Jack Penton, chairman of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, which raises money for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. "Everyone from a kid on a dirtbike to a retiree who rides cross country on a touring motorcycle can only dream about what it is like to go that fast on two wheels. The 2010 Breakfast at Daytona is an incredible opportunity for you to meet Chris and Denis and hear first hand what it takes, and how it feels to be the fastest motorcyclist on the planet."
Carr is excited about the opportunity to continue telling the story of his record-setting run.
"Just in the month of November, I've gone over 300 mph nine times, and it's a really amazing thing," Carr said. "There's not much time to think about what's going on at those speeds -- you're just reacting. For me, I really love talking about it. It's fresh. Don't get me wrong. I love flat track, but I've been talking about flat-track for 35 years. Land-speed racing is a whole new experience, and I've been lucky that my experiences at Bonneville have been pretty cool of late."
Although the actual run only took a few seconds, the history of the record dates back at least three decades, when Manning began his quest to build the world's fastest motorcycle.
"People think that this is a lot of work, and it is -- it's been 30 years of effort leading to this point -- but it's not like we mind it," Manning said. "Land-speed racing is something we love, and something that we wouldn't trade for anything. I may never make the Fortune 500 chasing the world motorcycle land-speed record, but for us, it's a real passion."
Monday, January 18, 2010
New MotoGP rules could mean more riders
From motogp.com
The CEO of Dorna Sports is confident an agreement can be reached with manufacturers with regards to the technical details which will regulate MotoGP.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports S.L, spoke at Wrooom 2010 in Madonna de Campiglio last week about the changes that will be introduced for the 2012 MotoGP season.
“During the MotoGP tests next month in Malaysia, we will hold meetings with the manufacturers to finish defining the important details for the regulation of MotoGP from 2012, as well as the tank capacity and weight of the bike. If we arrive at a consensus we could have the technical regulations before the start of the Championship.”
As reported at the time, in a meeting last December between the representatives who govern MotoGP (IRTA, Dorna and MSMA) the Grand Prix Commission agreed to change the maximum capacity of engines in the premier class to 1000cc for the 2012 season. It was also decided that there will be a limit of four cylinders and a maximum cylinder bore diameter of 81mm.
With regards to a possible earlier implementation of the rules in 2011, Ezpeleta said: “At the moment we are not contemplating bringing it forward, but if the manufacturers ask for it altogether, we can evaluate it.”
The head of the company which owns the rights to MotoGP is convinced that the new regulations will allow the ideal number of 22 riders to be reached with the entry of new manufacturers, and will not require Dorna to go in search of new constructors.
“We will not and have never tried to convince anyone to come and compete,” said Ezpeleta. “They should be interested in coming themselves. We speak with everybody from all around the world, but never send anybody to convince a manufacturer to come and compete in our Championship.”
Turning to Moto2, Ezpeleta confirmed that the entry list of teams that will shape the grid of 39 riders for the inaugural 2010 season will be announced early next month.
In the 125cc class, in which technical regulations must remain stable until 2014, Ezpeleta does not foresee any changes in the short term.
The CEO of Dorna Sports is confident an agreement can be reached with manufacturers with regards to the technical details which will regulate MotoGP.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports S.L, spoke at Wrooom 2010 in Madonna de Campiglio last week about the changes that will be introduced for the 2012 MotoGP season.
“During the MotoGP tests next month in Malaysia, we will hold meetings with the manufacturers to finish defining the important details for the regulation of MotoGP from 2012, as well as the tank capacity and weight of the bike. If we arrive at a consensus we could have the technical regulations before the start of the Championship.”
As reported at the time, in a meeting last December between the representatives who govern MotoGP (IRTA, Dorna and MSMA) the Grand Prix Commission agreed to change the maximum capacity of engines in the premier class to 1000cc for the 2012 season. It was also decided that there will be a limit of four cylinders and a maximum cylinder bore diameter of 81mm.
With regards to a possible earlier implementation of the rules in 2011, Ezpeleta said: “At the moment we are not contemplating bringing it forward, but if the manufacturers ask for it altogether, we can evaluate it.”
The head of the company which owns the rights to MotoGP is convinced that the new regulations will allow the ideal number of 22 riders to be reached with the entry of new manufacturers, and will not require Dorna to go in search of new constructors.
“We will not and have never tried to convince anyone to come and compete,” said Ezpeleta. “They should be interested in coming themselves. We speak with everybody from all around the world, but never send anybody to convince a manufacturer to come and compete in our Championship.”
Turning to Moto2, Ezpeleta confirmed that the entry list of teams that will shape the grid of 39 riders for the inaugural 2010 season will be announced early next month.
In the 125cc class, in which technical regulations must remain stable until 2014, Ezpeleta does not foresee any changes in the short term.
Szoke determined to defend plates
By John Hopkins
Jordan Szoke is determined to defend his number one plates in the Parts Canada Superbike and Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike classes in 2010, despite losing his Kawasaki ride.
The Brantford, ON racer says he is in the process of setting up his own team to race in the national series, and has so far enlisted the help of famed tuner Scott Miller of Fast Company.
"I am going to defend my number one plates any way I can," said the six-time Canadian Superbike champion on Saturday at the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW in Toronto, where he was a guest on the Joe Rocket stage with noted race announcer Frank Wood. "All my life savings are going into this program for next year and I hope that the following year things will get better."
Speaking to Inside Motorcycles on Monday, Szoke confirmed that he has enlisted Fast Company to build bikes for him, and he is trying to raise the budget to have Miller work with him at the track. Szoke and Miller are close friends, and combined to win the 2002 Parts Canada Superbike Championship aboard Suzukis.
What equipment Szoke will ride remains a question mark. Suzuki's participation in the national tour is in a state of flux, realistically leaving only Honda or BMW open to him. Persistent rumours at the SUPERSHOW suggested Suzuki will eventually commit to the Parts Canada series, clearing the way for Szoke to run a GSX-R based program.
After considerable speculation, Szoke's break with Canadian Kawasaki Motors was made official last week when the company announced that its race program was being taken over by Competition Systems. Szoke's 2009 teammate Alex Welsh was later confirmed as the lone rider in a Superbike-only squad.
The dire state of the economy and the motorcycle industry in particular were cited for the drastic changes to the Canadian Kawasaki Motors race program, which has won the past four national Superbike and Pro Sport Bike titles with Szoke.
Jordan Szoke is determined to defend his number one plates in the Parts Canada Superbike and Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike classes in 2010, despite losing his Kawasaki ride.
The Brantford, ON racer says he is in the process of setting up his own team to race in the national series, and has so far enlisted the help of famed tuner Scott Miller of Fast Company.
"I am going to defend my number one plates any way I can," said the six-time Canadian Superbike champion on Saturday at the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW in Toronto, where he was a guest on the Joe Rocket stage with noted race announcer Frank Wood. "All my life savings are going into this program for next year and I hope that the following year things will get better."
Speaking to Inside Motorcycles on Monday, Szoke confirmed that he has enlisted Fast Company to build bikes for him, and he is trying to raise the budget to have Miller work with him at the track. Szoke and Miller are close friends, and combined to win the 2002 Parts Canada Superbike Championship aboard Suzukis.
What equipment Szoke will ride remains a question mark. Suzuki's participation in the national tour is in a state of flux, realistically leaving only Honda or BMW open to him. Persistent rumours at the SUPERSHOW suggested Suzuki will eventually commit to the Parts Canada series, clearing the way for Szoke to run a GSX-R based program.
After considerable speculation, Szoke's break with Canadian Kawasaki Motors was made official last week when the company announced that its race program was being taken over by Competition Systems. Szoke's 2009 teammate Alex Welsh was later confirmed as the lone rider in a Superbike-only squad.
The dire state of the economy and the motorcycle industry in particular were cited for the drastic changes to the Canadian Kawasaki Motors race program, which has won the past four national Superbike and Pro Sport Bike titles with Szoke.
Despres takes third Dakar title
From KTM Racing
With files from John Hopkins
KTM-supported rider, French-born Cyril Despres sealed victory in the 2010 Dakar Rally on Saturday after 9000km across Argentina and Chile. He rode in triumph into Buenos Aires to complete his third Dakar victory and the 10th consecutive victory for KTM.
Despres completed the final stage, a total ride of 707km with a timed special of 206km of fast track riding, in a comfortable eighth place. He was five minutes and five seconds behind the winner of the day, rather fittingly, his KTM support rider Rubin Faria of Portugal. Despres, who also won in 2005 and 2007 when the rally was staged across Africa, was one hour, two minutes and 52 seconds in front for the event.
"All victories are nice but this one is particularly beautiful," he said. "It is the victory of hard work, of expertise and of an incredible team. There are nine of us in the team and not one of us ever let go. We all wanted to win; we all wanted to fight hard and we won. It's just fantastic. Of course there is a lot of emotion."
Despres, whose racing career has had its setbacks, injuries and a constant battle with his arch rival, fellow KTM rider Marc Coma of Spain, said he was genuinely moved by the victory.
"I am human," he said. "I know I have been riding this bike for 15 days and I am exhausted but the little strength I had left just went in tears. KTM played a big part in this victory. They trusted us. We chose everyone. We have been working 24/7 for months. One thing is clear; I was not afraid of losing. I just wanted to win. And this will to win was stronger than the fear of losing. It was a tough Dakar, a beautiful Dakar and I am so glad I won."
Second place overall went to KTM rider Pal Ullevalseter of Norway, who completed his eighth Dakar rally and finally succeeded in winning his first stage on Friday.
"To finish second in the standings is more than I expected," he admitted. "I had dreamed of it and there it is. On this Dakar, I only had good times. No problems, no crash. The bike worked well. I may not be the fastest rider but I am experienced. I know how to navigate, I know the technique and I am much more relaxed. With my first stage victory yesterday, I have lived so many things in two days. It's great times. The party is on for weeks to come now. I've been training for this moment for 25 years."
Third place went to Yamaha rider Helder Rodrigues of Portugal. Six of the top 10 finishers were KTM riders.
Coma, Despres' eternal rival in the KTM camp, finally finished in 15th place after penalties put him out of contention. But he still had four stage wins to his credit and, penalties aside, his actual riding time was remarkable close to that of Despres, proof enough that the two KTM riders are in a class of their own in international rally competition. Each has now won three Dakar titles.
Canadian Patrick Trahan placed 72nd on Saturday's final stage on his 450cc Honda. The Montrealer slipped to 55th in the final results. Trahan was the only Canadian to reach the finish of the Dakar 2010, after KTM rider Don Hatton of Duncan, BC was forced to retire early in the event due to extreme fatigue. Former motorcycle competitor Lawrence Hacking was entered in the Car class but was also an early casualty due to mechanical problems.
Stage 14 Results
1. Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM
2. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM
3. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
4. Alan Duclos, France, KTM
5. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
6. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
Final Standings after Stage 14
1. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM (2010 winner)
2. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM (at 1:02:52)
3. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia, (at 1:08:34)
4. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
5. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
Hayden stars in Wrooom races
From motogp.com
The 20th edition of the Wrooom Press Ski Meeting concluded on Friday with two spectacular races on the frozen lake in Madonna di Campiglio.
The first race, in Panda 4x4 cars, was won by Felipe Massa and the Brazilian was joined on the podium by Ducati Marlboro MotoGP stars Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden, with Fernando Alonso crossing the line fourth ahead of Giancarlo Fisichella.
The second was a go-kart race dominated from start to finish by Hayden, who shared the podium champagne with Massa and Stoner, with Alonso unable to make the finish after crashing into the protective barriers.
The exhibition races were enjoyed by a huge crowd, who took the opportunity to show their support for the MotoGP and F1 stars as they went head-to-head in their machines, resplendent in the colours of each individual driver.
With the Wrooom event coming to a close, the Ducati Marlboro Team's next appointment is a three-day test in preparation for the new season from Feb. 3-5 in Malaysia.
The 20th edition of the Wrooom Press Ski Meeting concluded on Friday with two spectacular races on the frozen lake in Madonna di Campiglio.
The first race, in Panda 4x4 cars, was won by Felipe Massa and the Brazilian was joined on the podium by Ducati Marlboro MotoGP stars Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden, with Fernando Alonso crossing the line fourth ahead of Giancarlo Fisichella.
The second was a go-kart race dominated from start to finish by Hayden, who shared the podium champagne with Massa and Stoner, with Alonso unable to make the finish after crashing into the protective barriers.
The exhibition races were enjoyed by a huge crowd, who took the opportunity to show their support for the MotoGP and F1 stars as they went head-to-head in their machines, resplendent in the colours of each individual driver.
With the Wrooom event coming to a close, the Ducati Marlboro Team's next appointment is a three-day test in preparation for the new season from Feb. 3-5 in Malaysia.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Jerez named best GP of 2009
From motogp.com
The IRTA has recognized the third round of the 2009 MotoGP season at Jerez, by awarding the Spanish circuit the 26th annual Best Grand Prix award.
Over 120,000 fans were present at the Gran Premio bwin.com de España in May as Valentino Rossi took his first win of the season on his way to his ninth World Championship title, and the superb organization of the event has led to the title of Best Grand Prix returning to the track.
IRTA President Hervé Poncharal stated: “We are delighted at Jerez winning the Best Grand Prix Poll for the first time since 1990. This is one of the traditional homes of MotoGP, serving an incredible atmosphere as teams and fans gather here for the first European event of the season.
“Jerez has always been a fantastic location for the Grand Prix, a great racetrack with the huge crowds giving the event a unique atmosphere, one which truly highlights the passion and excitement of MotoGP. It also has the accolade of being the longest standing of the three racetracks that make up the Spanish rounds of MotoGP."
Mayoress of Jerez de la Frontera and President of the Jerez Speed Circuit, Pilar Sánchez Muñoz, said: “I would like to thank the members of IRTA for awarding us with the prize as the best organization among all the circuits that have taken part in the Grand Prix calendar during the 2009 season.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to everyone involved in this organization that has now been recognized, rewarding the work and effort undertaken by all involved. The Grand Prix of Spain 2010 is faced with renewed hope, and far from relaxing us this award is going to be a great incentive to keep improving in the future to make the Grand Prix of Spain, at Jerez, unforgettable.”
The IRTA has recognized the third round of the 2009 MotoGP season at Jerez, by awarding the Spanish circuit the 26th annual Best Grand Prix award.
Over 120,000 fans were present at the Gran Premio bwin.com de España in May as Valentino Rossi took his first win of the season on his way to his ninth World Championship title, and the superb organization of the event has led to the title of Best Grand Prix returning to the track.
IRTA President Hervé Poncharal stated: “We are delighted at Jerez winning the Best Grand Prix Poll for the first time since 1990. This is one of the traditional homes of MotoGP, serving an incredible atmosphere as teams and fans gather here for the first European event of the season.
“Jerez has always been a fantastic location for the Grand Prix, a great racetrack with the huge crowds giving the event a unique atmosphere, one which truly highlights the passion and excitement of MotoGP. It also has the accolade of being the longest standing of the three racetracks that make up the Spanish rounds of MotoGP."
Mayoress of Jerez de la Frontera and President of the Jerez Speed Circuit, Pilar Sánchez Muñoz, said: “I would like to thank the members of IRTA for awarding us with the prize as the best organization among all the circuits that have taken part in the Grand Prix calendar during the 2009 season.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to everyone involved in this organization that has now been recognized, rewarding the work and effort undertaken by all involved. The Grand Prix of Spain 2010 is faced with renewed hope, and far from relaxing us this award is going to be a great incentive to keep improving in the future to make the Grand Prix of Spain, at Jerez, unforgettable.”
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Stage win puts Norwegian second in Dakar
From KTM Racing
With files from John Hopkins
Norwegian rider Pal Ullevalseter stole the glory on the penultimate stage of the 2010 Dakar on Friday ahead of overall leader Cyril Despres and his fellow KTM supported rider Marc Coma.
Ullevalseter's line honours allowed him to edge forward ahead of Chilean Francesco Lopez in the overall standings. He is now second overall with a slim four minute advantage over the Chilean Aprilia rider. While the battle for the minor places continues to intensify as the rally heads for the Argentinean capital on Saturday, the French-born Despres still has a handsome lead of one hour four minutes and 12 seconds, even if the silverware is not in his hands just yet.
Ullevalseter and Despres led the pack through the day, which took riders from Argentina's San Rafael to Santa Rosa, across the Sierra Nevada and back onto the pampas with a timed special of 368km and a total ride of 725km. Riders were in their element on fast to seriously fast track as Ullevalseter later told organizers.
"A fantastic stage for me," he said. "I started third and after 40km I was in the lead. Today was a route for big bikes. We could really attack and in the last hours I was riding at more than 160km/h. It's perfect!"
Despres too was satisfied with his ride and said it was easier to concentrate with some speed under his tires. On the previous stage Despres was stung on the wrist by a wasp, which he later said was both painful and distracting.
"There was only a small section of sandy tracks and about 20km of sand dunes," said the overall leader. "It's always a pleasure to ride that. The sand dunes have different colours and different shapes and the there are bushes here and there. It was cool when the liaison section started then it started to heat up. It's much easier to stay focused when you drive a bit fast. I trust my KTM and my tires. I knew I would drive fast and it would be fine."
Canadian Patrick Trahan placed 51st on Friday's stage and the Honda rider now sits 54th in the overall standings.
On Saturday it will be Despres' task to take Stage 14 in his stride and arrive in good shape at the finish to pick up his third Dakar title. He has a ride of 666km ahead of him including the final timed special of 202km. The stage is described as flat and very fast, conditions seemingly made to measure for the KTM rider.
The ride from Santa Rosa to Buenos Aires on Saturday is the last stage of a ride that took competitors across Argentina into the challenging but fascinating desert landscape of coastal Chile and back across the Andes to return to the Argentine capital. When they cross the line they will have ridden almost 9000km.
Stage 13 Results
1. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM
2. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
3. Marc Coma, Spain, KTM
4. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
5. Alan Duclos France, KTM
51. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Standings after Stage 13
1. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
2. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM (at 1:04:12)
3. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia, (at 1:08:34)
4. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
5. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
54. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Friday, January 15, 2010
Welsh confirmed at Kawasaki
By John Hopkins
As expected, Alex Welsh has been confirmed as the lone rider of the Competition Systems Kawasaki Race Team in the 2010 Parts Canada Superbike Championship.
The 21-year-old from Uxbridge, ON will race a Ninja ZX-10R in the Superbike feature class. Primary sponsorship for the program comes from Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Parts Canada.
“Alex showed great promise and team spirit in 2009,” said team owner Mike Crompton in a press release. “All the crew is looking forward to concentrating its efforts with him and look forward to a successful 2010 season.”
On Wednesday Canadian Kawasaki Motors announced that Competition Systems would take over the Canadian Superbike program for the 2010 season.
“Kawasaki has a long and successful history of racing in Canada and the team is thrilled that they have entrusted us to carry on that tradition,” added Crompton. “We are also very pleased to have Parts Canada on board. They have put so much into this series and sport that we all enjoy. Their support will be a great asset to our team.”
The 21-year-old Welsh is one of the hottest new talents in Canadian motorcycle road racing. He was the 2008 HJC Pro Rookie of the Year in the Parts Canada Superbike Championship and last summer joined the Canadian Kawasaki Motors factory team.
Despite missing one race due to injury he finished seventh in the Superbike class on a Ninja ZX-10R with a top finish of third at Mosport International Raceway. He placed fourth in the Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike standings with four podium results to his credit, including a runner-up finish at Mosport, riding Kawasaki’s ZX-6R Ninja.
The crew will consist of Harald Surian, a multi-time championship-winning tuner, who will look after trackside set-up and suspension. Richard Winter, whose immaculate Ninja ZX-6R Sport Bikes have won the past four Canadian national titles, will be the in-house builder and tuner. Crompton will handle engines and logistics. He has some 40 years of experience in the Canadian motorcycle industry, supplying engines and race equipment to some of the country’s leading competitors.
The 2010 Parts Canada Superbike Championship opens May 28-30 at Circuit ICAR in Mirabel, QC.
WEC adds Cross-Country series
From World Enduro Canada
World Enduro Canada has announced the continued expansion of the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada in off-road racing in Canada with the WEC - CMRC Ontario Cross Country Championships. Last year WEC focused its efforts on the Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship and the Wiesner Insurance Canadian Trials Championship. In 2010 WEC will broaden its scope of competition disciplines.
“Even though our attention was sharply focused on the disciplines of Enduro and Trials, we were working for the past year in the background with race organizers and land owners to create a Cross Country series in Ontario for 2010,” said Sean Wiesner of World Enduro Canada. “Ontario, as we know, has a long history of off-road racing and has hosted some very good events over the years and we have seen some talented riders emerge.
"The fact is, there is a much greater depth of talent in Quebec and in the West than what currently exists here in Ontario. It is our full intention of promoting Cross Country racing in this province to a level that will attract new riders to the sport and motivate those good riders we have to a level of excellence where they can compete at a National and International level.
"We will be working with some highly motivated new event organizers with new venues. You will also see Cross Country racing at some National level motocross facilities. I am also very happy to say we will be working alongside some very experienced Ontario clubs. It’s going to be a great year for Ontario racers.”
This new series, promoted by WEC, will be sanctioned by the Canadian Motorsports Racing Club, which also sanctions the premier motocross series in Canada. The partnership with the CMRC demonstrates the co-operative nature of the MCC Competition Working Group and exemplifies the unification that is happening within Canadian motorcycle competition.
Through its partnership with the CMRC, WEC is looking forward to attracting many of the talented motocross racers in Ontario to test themselves on these courses that will combine MX tracks with woods and grass track sections.
To compete in the series a World Enduro Canada competition license will be required. They will be available online for $70 at www.worldendurocanada.com. CMRC motocross licenses will also be accepted so these riders will not need a separate license to try out Cross County racing. In addition, off-road riders looking to try out CMRC Motocross need only to upgrade their WEC off-road license to a full CMRC license for an additional $50.
Sponsors for the series and various rounds will be announced prior to the beginning of the race season.
Spring Series
May 30, Port Colborne
June 5, Mansfield
June 13, Burnt River
June 20, Parry Sound
June 27, Vienna
July 11, Moorefield
Fall Series
August 22, Wingham
August 29, St. Thomas
Sept. 26, Gopher Dunes
Oct. 3, Walton
Oct. 10, Orillia
Oct. 17, Wheatly
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Hopkins to test for M4 Suzuki
From Team M4 Suzuki
Former AMA Formula Xtreme Champion and MotoGP star John Hopkins will test a Suzuki GSX-R1000 Superbike at California Speedway on Feb. 2-3. Team Hammer, which races as Team M4 Suzuki, is in negotiations to sign Hopkins to race the 2010 AMA Pro Racing American Superbike season for Team M4 Suzuki.
"We're excited about having the opportunity to test with a rider the caliber of 'Hopper' and about the possibility that he might race with us in 2010," said crew chief Keith Perry. "It's been several years since the team worked with John and we had a lot of success together the last time. John went on to have success in MotoGP and it's been nice to see him do well on the World Championship scene. The team is hoping this test at Fontana will lay the groundwork for a successful partnership with Hopkins in anticipation of working together this upcoming season."
Hopkins, 26, won two AMA National Championships with Team Hammer, in 2000 and 2001, before beginning his World Championship career. Hopkins raced with Red Bull Yamaha before joining the factory Suzuki team, then moved to Kawasaki factory squad five years later. Last season, Hopkins raced with Stiggy Honda in World Superbike.
Ninja owners can get on track
From Turn 2 Sportbike School
CALABOGIE, ON - Turn 2 Sportbike School has announced its participation in a new national promotion with Canadian Kawasaki Motors. With the purchase of an eligible Ninja model new riders will receive a 'FULL DAY' TURN 2 GIFT CERTIFICATE allowing them to explore the potential of their new Ninja in a safe, controlled track environment at the Turn 2 Sportbike School at Calabogie Motorsports Park.
The KAWASAKI TURN 2 "Full Day" Gift Certificate has a retail value of up to $400 and provides professional training for all skill levels. This promotion is effective Dec. 11, 2009 to May 31, 2010 with the purchase of an eligible model.
Eligible models for this promotion include the 2009 Ninja ZX-14, ZX-10R, ZX-6R, 650R and 500R, and 2010 ZX-14, ZX-10R, ZX-6R and 650R.
Full details are available at Kawasaki dealers, Kawasaki.ca or turn2.ca.
Additional information on this promotion is also available at the Turn 2 Sportbike School booth at this weekend's 2010 North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW. Turn 2 SUPERSHOW specials include:
1. First 10 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) sign-ups of each day receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership. Limited Offer. 10 per day only.
2. Purchase 1 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) Course with a Bike Rental at regular price and receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership, free RFID Timing, free Riding Gear Rental, free Class Photo and a free Premium Lunch. Limited Offer. 20 per day only.
3. Purchase 1 Advanced Riding Course (ARC) Course and 1 CRG Day with a Bike Rental for both days (scheduled back-to-back) at regular price and receive a free Turn 2 Moto Club Membership, free RFID Timing, free Riding Gear rental, free Class Photo, free Premium Lunch and a 50% discount off second day bike rental fee. Limited Offer. 20 per day only.
Lopez wins longest Dakar stage
From KTM Racing
With files from John Hopkins
KTM-supported rider Cyril Despres finished the longest ride of the Dakar 2010 in eighth position at the close of Stage 12 on Thursday, trimming his substantial overall lead by just over 17 minutes on a day that favoured the smaller 450cc machines and demanded absolute concentration for nearly 800km.
In order to preserve his position at the front of the pack and so close to the end of the rally, it was the French-born rider's task to ride a steady, but solid race and arrive in San Rafael in good shape.
Meanwhile, KTM's Marc Coma, who was fourth on Thursday in Stage 12, was handed an unexpected bonus on Thursday morning when it was announced that race stewards awarded credits to riders who were misled by incorrect markings on Wednesday's track. The credits vaulted him into first place and sealed his fourth stage victory for this Dakar. The new results for Stage 11 put Coma 5:13 ahead of Frenchman David Fretegne (Yamaha) with Frans Verhoeven (BMW) of the Netherlands in third. The adjustment did not affect the overall leader Despres but meant that the second overall, Norwegian KTM rider Pal Ullevalseter shared the second placed ranking with Francisco "Chaleco" Lopez of Chile (Aprilia).
Coma said it had been a tough special with a variety of terrain.
"The first part of the special was very different from the second section, which required more riding skill," he said. "It was quite tough. I had a small problem with the bike because of the heat, so I dropped my pace a little in the second part. But it was a fairly nice special and there was an incredible amount of people."
Riders tackled their longest stretch on the rally on Thursday as they rode from San Juan to San Rafael, an overall distance of just short of 800km and a timed section of 476km. Coming out of the special they took a short tarmac section to go round a protected area and then faced a tough and tiring sandy stretch. The day was characterized by speed, jumps, spectacular scenery and long tiring kilometers in the saddle, which included another 276km to the bivouac in San Rafael.
The nature of the track made it more favourable for the 450cc machines. KTM-supported riders Despres and Coma are on KTM 690 Rally bikes fitted with air restrictors to reduce the performance to the level of 450s, in accordance with regulations laid down in mid-2009.
Montreal's Patrick Trahan, the lone Canadian still in the event, also benefitted from a shuffling of the Stage 11 order and improved from 72nd to 61st. He then placed 52nd on Thursday's stage aboard his 450 Honda and is now 52nd in the overall rankings.
The motorcycle competitors who made it to San Rafael - some 90 of the original 160 starters - are now on the home stretch back to Buenos Aires but still have to fight their way through two more stages to complete this daunting 9000km marathon. Friday they face almost 40km of grey sand of the Nihiul dunes before they hit the fast track back to the end of the stage. The special is 368km and the finish is at Santa Rosa.
Adjusted Stage 11 Results (After race stewards reversed the order overnight)
1. Marc Coma, Spain, KTM
2. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
3. Frans Verhoeven, Netherlands, BMW
4. Jonah Street, USA, KTM
5. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
61. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Stage 12 Results
1. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
2. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
3. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM
4. Marc Coma, Spain, KTM
5. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
8. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM (at 17:12)
51. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Standings after Stage 12
1. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
2. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia (at 1:03:42)
3. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM
4. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
5. David Fretigne, France, Yamaha
52. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Seeley and Laverty lead British Suzuki charge
From Team Suzuki News Service
Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing has announced its rider line-up for the 2010 British Superbike Championship after team manager Philip Neill secured the signatures of reigning British Superstock Champion Alastair Seeley and fellow Northern Ireland rider Michael Laverty earlier this week.
Laverty needs little introduction, having secured the 2007 British Supersport title in Relentless Suzuki colours before spearheading the team's maiden effort in the British Superbike Championship in 2008.
Seeley was something of a phenomenon during 2009, taking the British Superstock title with nine wins from nine starts on his GSX-R1000 Suzuki, before dipping his toe in the British Superbike pond as an end of season bonus.
Both men will ride factory supported Relentless Suzuki Superbike machines with iconic Suzuki numbers - Seeley will run number 34 and Laverty number 7 for the 2010 season - and Neill is confident of immediate success.
"Not many teams can boast the services of two British champions, which we have secured in Michael Laverty and Alastair Seeley," he said. "It's fair to say our plans for this season have taken a little longer than normal to finalize as we did our best to consider the requirements of our sponsors. With this in mind, 2010 carries increased expectations from TAS Racing and its riders, but I am more than confident we have chosen the correct line up in order to meet these requirements.
"Alastair was provisionally confirmed as part of our line up in November after delivering the 2009 British Superstock title, which in my eyes could not go unrewarded. His youthful enthusiasm belies his experience, and together with his calculated style of racing, I believe he will deliver success beyond everyone's expectation in his rookie Superbike season. Michael returns to TAS Racing after a year competing in AMA Superbike with considerable success. He will be charged with the task of spearheading our development programme, whilst challenging for a top-three championship position, in this all important year."
The team would like to thank Suzuki GB and Relentless for their continued support. This is the ninth consecutive year that TAS Racing has been involved officially with Suzuki. The team would also like to thank long-standing sponsor Beacon Security and additional partners: Leo Vince, Motul Lubricants, Arlen Ness, Hel, Bendix, Pirelli, RK, Talon, NGK, Skid Marx, Samco, Brembo, RHM Motorsport and GMC Signage.
Ducati unveils new MotoGP challenger
From motogp.com
The new prototype to be used by the Ducati Marlboro team for the 2010 MotoGP World Championship campaign was presented on Wednesday.
There was a packed schedule again on the third day of Wrooom 2010 at Madonna di Campiglio, with Claudio Domenicali coming under the spotlight in a morning press conference. The general manager of Ducati Motor later joined Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden on the spectacular Patascoss slope to unveil the new Ducati Desmosedici GP10, the Ducati Marlboro Team’s latest weapon in the chase for the MotoGP title.
“The main changes to the bike are based on the rule changes, so the major part of the work was done precisely to make it perform better using only six engines for the entire championship,” explained Domenicali. “It’s a very important difference, because we were used to using more-or-less one engine per race, so to switch from 18 engines to six is a very important adjustment.
"All of the main parts were redesigned - pistons, rods, crankshaft, the basics. It’s an engine with which our main objective was to minimize the loss of power to increase durability.
“The second big news isn’t related to the rules, but to our attempt to make the bike more rideable. This has to do with the firing order. We have a motor that, since the switch to 800cc, utilized a screamer set-up. This has permitted us to have maximum power, which was very important and was probably fundamental with the results that we’ve had in 2007, 2008 and 2009, but at a certain point, we began to wonder whether it could be worthwhile to re-test a way that we’d already followed in the past. The last 1000cc motors that we made in 2005 and 2006 used a big-bang firing order, and this gave us important rideability. We re-tested that way, first trying it on the dyno, then with Vittoriano Guareschi in his previous role as test rider and then with Nicky and Casey.
“We think we have a bike for 2010 with better traction, and that therefore makes it easier for us to find a good set-up. Another part of the work was dedicated to the chassis. In the pursuit of ease of use, we’ve worked to eliminate the bike’s squatting, which is why the entire rear portion of the bike was redesigned. This bike has a rear structure that carries the rider - which we call the seat support - and that also supports the swingarm. That part was redesigned to have six mounting points instead of four; this makes the bike more rigid in a way and it guarantees better rideability and improved rigidity. With respect to the bike we introduced last year, this bike is also aesthetically different because of the redesigned fairing but we already saw that at Estoril.”
Domenicali then discussed the recent changes to Ducati Marlboro Team management.
“Nicky found things harder [in 2009] than he or we expected but he gave us a great lesson because he never lost his good attitude, he always had a spirit of great optimism and positivity," Domenicali said. "We were able to put at his disposal a bike that permitted him to obtain results that were in line with his talent. He gave us a podium at Indianapolis and he kept improving the whole season.
“Casey was very fast from the start, as he always is, and had great potential. Of course what happened at mid-season affected the season, but I believe that everyone - from Casey to us - has described what happened and clarified it so it seems useless for me to continue to give details. The important thing, in my opinion, is that today we have Casey with us, probably in the best health we’ve ever seen him. We have reason for optimism for both riders.
“There have also been some changes to the management, with Alessandro Cicognoni and Vitto Guareschi coming in, having shown themselves in the team to have competence and perhaps even bring things that were missing. I believe that this important change leaves the company in a solid situation, also because it’s in some way personalised by an incredible talent as Filippo Preziosi, who is the true engine of all our racing activities, and he remains safe, solid, and dedicated. I believe it’s a change in the continuity, if we can define it that way.”
The new prototype to be used by the Ducati Marlboro team for the 2010 MotoGP World Championship campaign was presented on Wednesday.
There was a packed schedule again on the third day of Wrooom 2010 at Madonna di Campiglio, with Claudio Domenicali coming under the spotlight in a morning press conference. The general manager of Ducati Motor later joined Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden on the spectacular Patascoss slope to unveil the new Ducati Desmosedici GP10, the Ducati Marlboro Team’s latest weapon in the chase for the MotoGP title.
“The main changes to the bike are based on the rule changes, so the major part of the work was done precisely to make it perform better using only six engines for the entire championship,” explained Domenicali. “It’s a very important difference, because we were used to using more-or-less one engine per race, so to switch from 18 engines to six is a very important adjustment.
"All of the main parts were redesigned - pistons, rods, crankshaft, the basics. It’s an engine with which our main objective was to minimize the loss of power to increase durability.
“The second big news isn’t related to the rules, but to our attempt to make the bike more rideable. This has to do with the firing order. We have a motor that, since the switch to 800cc, utilized a screamer set-up. This has permitted us to have maximum power, which was very important and was probably fundamental with the results that we’ve had in 2007, 2008 and 2009, but at a certain point, we began to wonder whether it could be worthwhile to re-test a way that we’d already followed in the past. The last 1000cc motors that we made in 2005 and 2006 used a big-bang firing order, and this gave us important rideability. We re-tested that way, first trying it on the dyno, then with Vittoriano Guareschi in his previous role as test rider and then with Nicky and Casey.
“We think we have a bike for 2010 with better traction, and that therefore makes it easier for us to find a good set-up. Another part of the work was dedicated to the chassis. In the pursuit of ease of use, we’ve worked to eliminate the bike’s squatting, which is why the entire rear portion of the bike was redesigned. This bike has a rear structure that carries the rider - which we call the seat support - and that also supports the swingarm. That part was redesigned to have six mounting points instead of four; this makes the bike more rigid in a way and it guarantees better rideability and improved rigidity. With respect to the bike we introduced last year, this bike is also aesthetically different because of the redesigned fairing but we already saw that at Estoril.”
Domenicali then discussed the recent changes to Ducati Marlboro Team management.
“Nicky found things harder [in 2009] than he or we expected but he gave us a great lesson because he never lost his good attitude, he always had a spirit of great optimism and positivity," Domenicali said. "We were able to put at his disposal a bike that permitted him to obtain results that were in line with his talent. He gave us a podium at Indianapolis and he kept improving the whole season.
“Casey was very fast from the start, as he always is, and had great potential. Of course what happened at mid-season affected the season, but I believe that everyone - from Casey to us - has described what happened and clarified it so it seems useless for me to continue to give details. The important thing, in my opinion, is that today we have Casey with us, probably in the best health we’ve ever seen him. We have reason for optimism for both riders.
“There have also been some changes to the management, with Alessandro Cicognoni and Vitto Guareschi coming in, having shown themselves in the team to have competence and perhaps even bring things that were missing. I believe that this important change leaves the company in a solid situation, also because it’s in some way personalised by an incredible talent as Filippo Preziosi, who is the true engine of all our racing activities, and he remains safe, solid, and dedicated. I believe it’s a change in the continuity, if we can define it that way.”
Five rounds for Manitoba series
By John Hopkins
The Manitoba Roadracing Association's 2010 season will open May 14-16 at Gimli Motorsports Park, the organization has announced.
Further dates are slated for June 11-13, July 9-11, Aug. 6-8 and Sept. 10-12. All rounds will be run at the onetime 'Air Canada gliding facility.'
The MRA has also scheduled Track Days for each of those weekends, along with an Advanced Rider School on June 13.
Full details are available at www.mrasuperbike.ca, www.gimlimotorsportspark.com or by emailing exec@mrasuperbike.ca.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Despres keeps lead as Dakar winds down
From KTM Racing
With files from John Hopkins
KTM's Cyril Despres put in a solid day's ride across the Andes to San Juan on Wednesday to retain the overall lead by one hour, 20 minutes and 54 seconds as the Dakar "caravan" 2010 returned to Argentina. Despres was seventh in the 11th stage but only four minutes and 21 seconds behind stage leader Frans Verhoeven (BMW).
Despres said it had been a nice stage and confirmed he is having too much fun to hold back for the sake of caution.
"It was strange at the beginning, because after 13km there was a banner stopping us following a track," he said after the day's ride. "I went straight ahead for about 80m but I turned around after I saw Marc Coma coming back in the other direction followed by other riders. After that, we carried on as a group. I rather enjoyed myself. It was quick today, 220km in a flash. Was I being extremely careful? No. When I climb on the bike, I just can't hold myself back. I just want to have fun."
Second in Stage 11 was KTM's American rider Jonah Street, who was denied line honors by a mere three seconds as riders turned east, crossed the Andes and now head for the finish in Buenos Aires this weekend. Third place went to French KTM rider Alain Duclos, making it another good day for the Austrian sports motorcycle manufacturer.
Street's ride was impressive, especially his ongoing fight with Verhoeven that went right down to the wire. He was fastest at the first checkpoint by just seven seconds and had to relinquish the line glory by the slimmest of margins.
But it was KTM Norwegian rider Pal Anders Ullevalseter that came off best on the day. He finished fourth, just two minutes and 26 seconds behind Verhoeven and consolidated his second place behind Despres in the overall standings. Ullevalseter continues to chase a possible podium in Buenos Aires and succeeded in putting some minor distance between himself and his close rivals, the Chilean Francisco Lopez (Aprilia) and Helder Rodrigues (Yamaha) of Portugal.
Riders had an early start to the day and faced hard, fast and often winding track, most of it downhill as they went over the Paso Libertadores pass at an altitude of 3500m and made the descent. The timed special was 220km. Tuesday's stage winner Marc Coma opened the road but a navigation error at the 13km mark cost him an extra 3km, with another to get him back on track. He eventually finished in ninth place, just over five minutes behind the leader.
Canadian Patrick Trahan finished the stage 61st on his Honda to maintain 60th in the overall ranking.
Thursday's stage from San Juan to San Raphael will be another fast day in the saddle and includes a timed special of 476km.
Stage 11 Results
1. Franz Verhoeven, Netherlands, BMW
2. Jonah Street, USA, KTM, (at 00:03)
3. Alain Duclos, France, KTM
4. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM
5. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
7. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM (at 4:21)
61. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Overall standings after Stage 11
1. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
2. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM (at 1:20:54)
3. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
4. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
5. Alain Duclos, France KTM
60. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Espargaro has successful surgery
From motogp.com
Pramac Ducati MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaró is expected to return to training in the coming weeks after a problem with his left forearm. The Spaniard has had a successful operation to correct the compartment syndrome he was suffering.
Espargaro, who is also the youngest ever debutant in the MotoGP class, went under the knife four months after having the same operation on his right forearm.
The operation, performed by Doctor Ángel Villamor, was completed under local anaesthetic and should relieve the pain and exhaustion Espargaró was suffering in his arm.
Espargaró is expected to begin his rehabilitation immediately and resume training within the next few weeks.
Pramac Ducati MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaró is expected to return to training in the coming weeks after a problem with his left forearm. The Spaniard has had a successful operation to correct the compartment syndrome he was suffering.
Espargaro, who is also the youngest ever debutant in the MotoGP class, went under the knife four months after having the same operation on his right forearm.
The operation, performed by Doctor Ángel Villamor, was completed under local anaesthetic and should relieve the pain and exhaustion Espargaró was suffering in his arm.
Espargaró is expected to begin his rehabilitation immediately and resume training within the next few weeks.
Zeelenberg to manage Lorenzo team
From motogp.com
Yamaha Motor Racing Srl have announced the appointment of Wilco Zeelenberg as team manager for Jorge Lorenzo in the Fiat Yamaha Team.
Zeelenberg had a successful career as a rider and contested 100 Grands Prix from 1986-1995, racing with three different manufacturers including Yamaha before a five-year spell in the WSS championship.
On his retirement from professional racing Zeelenberg joined Yamaha Motor Europe as technical coordinator and test rider until 2008, and will now use his vast experience and expertise in MotoGP.
“After nine years working for Yamaha I am very proud to be joining the official Yamaha MotoGP team,” said Zeelenberg. “It's a big reward and I am very excited about this new challenge. Jorge is a fantastic rider and I cannot wait to start working with him and the crew.
“The team is already a well-oiled machine and I am thrilled to be fitting into it. It's clear that there are four main contenders for the title and Jorge is one of those four. I am a very competitive person, I will do everything I can in the team to create the right atmosphere and fight for the championship title.”
Managing Director for Yamaha Motor Racing Srl, Lin Jarvis, said, “I would like to congratulate Wilco on his appointment and wish him every success in his new challenge. I am confident that the team and Jorge will benefit from Wilco's long experience as a rider, a Yamaha racing technician and more recently as a successful team manager.”
Zeelenberg joins the team from Yamaha’s WSS set-up, having won the 2009 title with rider Cal Crutchlow.
Yamaha Motor Racing Srl have announced the appointment of Wilco Zeelenberg as team manager for Jorge Lorenzo in the Fiat Yamaha Team.
Zeelenberg had a successful career as a rider and contested 100 Grands Prix from 1986-1995, racing with three different manufacturers including Yamaha before a five-year spell in the WSS championship.
On his retirement from professional racing Zeelenberg joined Yamaha Motor Europe as technical coordinator and test rider until 2008, and will now use his vast experience and expertise in MotoGP.
“After nine years working for Yamaha I am very proud to be joining the official Yamaha MotoGP team,” said Zeelenberg. “It's a big reward and I am very excited about this new challenge. Jorge is a fantastic rider and I cannot wait to start working with him and the crew.
“The team is already a well-oiled machine and I am thrilled to be fitting into it. It's clear that there are four main contenders for the title and Jorge is one of those four. I am a very competitive person, I will do everything I can in the team to create the right atmosphere and fight for the championship title.”
Managing Director for Yamaha Motor Racing Srl, Lin Jarvis, said, “I would like to congratulate Wilco on his appointment and wish him every success in his new challenge. I am confident that the team and Jorge will benefit from Wilco's long experience as a rider, a Yamaha racing technician and more recently as a successful team manager.”
Zeelenberg joins the team from Yamaha’s WSS set-up, having won the 2009 title with rider Cal Crutchlow.
New set-up for Canadian Kawasaki team
By John Hopkins
Four-time defending Parts Canada Superbike Championship winning team Canadian Kawawsaki Motors has announced a restructuring of its program for 2010.
Competition Systems, owned by noted race tuner Mike Crompton, has taken over the squad. According to a press release Competition Systems will shortly announce its lone rider, who will compete solely in the Superbike feature class aboard a Ninja ZX-10R. The new team will be called 'Competition Systems Kawasaki Race Team.'
It is believed the rider for the team will not be Jordan Szoke, who has won the past four Parts Canada Superbike and Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike titles for the 'green team', but 2008 HJC Pro Rookie of the Year Alex Welsh, who made his factory debut with Kawasaki last summer. The Uxbridge, ON racer is understood to still have a year remaining on his Canadian Kawasaki Motors contract while Szoke and Kawasaki were believed to be struggling to come to a suitable extension agreement.
Last year Szoke tied Steve Crevier for the most Canadian Superbike titles with six and became the winningest rider in the sport's history with 29 race victories.
“Due to a number of circumstances we have decided to suspend activities with our factory program for 2010,” said Jeff Comello of Canadian Kawasaki Motors in a press release. “But despite this state of change we have tried to keep as much continuity as possible and Mike Crompton and Competition Systems are the perfect fit. We have been together now for four-plus years and have enjoyed a great deal of success.”
Crompton has some 40 years of experience in the Canadian motorcycle industry, supplying engines and race equipment to some of the country’s leading competitors.
“Canadian Kawasaki Motors is a great company and I’m looking forward to this,” Crompton said. “We already have a good team structure and equipment. We’ve spent a number of years building this program and all we have to do is just continue what we’ve started.”
The agreement between Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Competition Systems is for one year and will be re-evaluated at the end of the 2010 racing season, the release said.
“Kawasaki is committed to showcasing the Ninja brand in competition and we feel strongly that we need to be behind the Parts Canada Superbike Championship,” Comello added. “This is the perfect venue for us to display our products.”
Third stage victory for Coma
From KTM Racing
With files from John Hopkins
KTM supported rider Marc Coma scored his third stage victory in the Dakar 2010 on Tuesday as riders went from La Serena to the Chilean capital of Santiago for Stage 10. KTM's Cyril Despres still leads overall.
Although Coma has virtually no chance of making up the distance separating him from the leader, his will to win has not diminished. He was beset with problems during the first half of the race that put him behind in the overall ranking. Coma, who won here last year, has now taken line honours in Stages Four, Six and 10. He has made inroads into improving his overall position but is still ranked 16th.
"That was like a day of endurance riding," Coma commented after the race. "There was a lot of skidding, but it was technical and interesting. I started first and opened the road for the whole stage. It's hard. In fact it's the hardest thing to do. And trying to claw back some time is difficult too. But we did it, so I'm happy, even proud - all thanks to the team."
Despres has now emerged as the favourite for the 2010 title and has a lead of one hour, 22 minutes, 49 seconds. He and Coma have exchanged Dakar victories in recent years and according to their alternating track record, it is Despres turn to take glory this year to make his tally three Dakar titles.
On Tuesday it was the Frenchman's job to protect his lead and ride a steady race because, having left the desert and entering new terrain, the race will now favour the 450cc machines. Both Despres and Coma are onboard their heavier KTM 690 Rally bikes, which this year had to be fitted with air restrictors to reduce performance down to the equivalent of the 450cc bikes.
Despres knows from past experience that anything can happen in a Dakar Rally over more than 9000km and the race is not over until the first bike crosses the finish line. He said he went out to protect his lead on Tuesday.
"We could have easily lost first place in the rally today so I protected my lead. That said I also wasn't just taking it easy," he said, adding that many parts were slippery and there were bends with big drops on one side as well as stones on the track, obstacles that damaged his wheels in Sunday's stage. "For me, there was no need to go on all out attack. We're now on a different type of terrain with hard tracks that we have to adapt to. It's completely different from the last three days. It's a good mix."
Canadian Patrick Trahan finished the 10th stage 72nd on his 450cc Honda, which included a one minute time penalty, and he slipped slightly to 60th in the overall standings.
Stage 11 takes riders from Santiago back across the Andes to San Juan in Argentina. On what should be a fast day's ride, they will encounter altitudes around 3000m and the timed special is 220km.
Stage 10 Results
1. Marc Coma, Spain, KTM
2. David Fretegne, France, Yamaha
3. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
4. Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM
5. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
72. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
Overall standings after Stage 10
1. Cyril Despres, Andorra, KTM
2. Pal Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM (at 1:22:49)
3. Francisco Lopez, Chile, Aprilia
4. Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha
5. Alain Duclos, France KTM
60. Patrick Trahan, Canada, Honda
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