Thursday Afternoon Moto News - ASBK, Yamaha and a Bar

Well, it seems that Motorcycling Australia has axed the Superstock B race from the 27 - 29 February 2010 Phillip Island round of the Australian Superbike Championship. Originally, apparently, organizer International Entertainment Group had said that B riders could compete in the Superbike class (for their own separate podium) as the A riders will, but no more. It seems that B, C and D riders will compete together for the remainder of the 2010 season.

http://tinyurl.com/yefj7yt

Now we head off to my (wish it weren't true) hometown metro area, Portland, Oregon. Kelly's Olympian Bar & Diner has been in business wince 1902 (as the Olympian Saloon way back, which was named for Washington's Olympia Brewing Company) and is full of some of the coolest motorcycle-related decor you can imagine. If you are in the area and a motorcycling fan, this is a place for you!

http://tinyurl.com/ybsrrqu

On to a classic machine which may bring back memories from your own riding past. The Yamaha TT500 was made from 1976 until 1981 (at least that was the last year it was imported to the US) and was an impressive machine. It is still considered a lightweight and fun ride and has legions of fans worldwide. It is indeed a very cool looking bike, so go and learn more about it.

http://tinyurl.com/ydmbzc9

A beautiful 1953 Laverda 75 Sport is up next. It was photographed by renowned Australian photographer Phil Aynsley. This bike was made just five years after Francesco Laverda decided to build this machine. It is an impressive piece of work and would look best in my garage!

http://tinyurl.com/yd7dysn