Posts
He is in a wheelchair and a paraplegic, who has little use of even his hands, but he is also an inspiration. Preziosi is Ducati's Racing Director and their point man for everything technical about Ducati racing. Many people come to him for advice, knowledge, and help...and he always helps!
http://tinyurl.com/ydmtnuq
Interview With Filippo Preziosi of Ducati Racing
Yamaha Launches Study on Relationship Between Riding and Mental Stimulation
Yamaha has announced the start of a second joint research project on the subject of the relationship between motorcycle riding and brain stimulation with Ryuta Kawashima Laboratory of the Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer at Tohoku University.
The project began in September 2009 and is planned to continue until December 2010. The focus of this research will be the measurement and analysis of the cause and effect relationship involved in the operation of various types of vehicles and brain stimulation and measuring the changes in such stimulation over time by means of data gathered from a long-term mass survey in the market.
The reason for Yamaha Motor's participation in this project is to further research on the relationship between motorcycle riding and brain stimulation in the context of the Ryuta Kawashima Laboratory's studies in the area of "Smart Aging Society" and hopefully connect it to vitalization of the motorcycle market.
The findings of the first research project in 2008 included: When riding a motorcycle, the brain of the rider is stimulated; Differences in brain use and level of brain stimulation can be observed in motorcyclists who ride regularly and in motorcyclists who have not ridden for extended periods; Incorporating motorcycle riding into daily life improves various cognitive functions and has positive effects on mental and emotional health such as stress reduction.
The second research project now begun will be divided into a Sept - Oct 2009 and Oct 2009 - Dec 2010 test. In Test 1, research will survey the differences in the conditions of brain stimulation related to the type of vehicle and riding conditions and the motorcycle riding operations. Test 2 will focus on measuring the changes in this brain stimulation over time related to conditions involved, and the survey will involve a larger subject base.
Yamaha Motor's participation in the new project will include providing vehicles for the research (motorcycles, service support, etc.), making its test courses available for tests, soliciting test participants (test subjects) and providing test staff.
Culled from a Japanese press release...no source linked, sorry...
More Bad Economic Fallout: West Virginian Yamaha Dealer to Close
Stafford Motorsports of Ashland, West Virginia, will be closing down at the end of this month. Sales have been WAY off recently and they are not getting any better. The really sad part is that this business has been around for over 11 years, was selected by Yamaha as one of the top 5% of dealers in the US, and five employees will need to find work elsewhere...
http://tinyurl.com/ybezr36
P.S. This economy SUCKS!
Riding the 2010 Kawasaki Versys in Historic Japan
Talk about an introduction to Japanese culture - the author almost ended up in jail (well, not really). The Versys is a very good companion on a road going journey. It is designed for that and it shows. The trip takes the rider through some of the most beautiful and historic areas of Japan and you get to go along with him and enjoy it as well...
http://tinyurl.com/yayr2jk
Very Cool Leo Motorcycle - For Long-Distance Touring
The Leo (seen above) is only a design now, unfortunately. It has an almost fully-enclosed cockpit, is electric with a range of 200Km, the tires have no air but are polyurethane, the plastic bodywork changes color depending on light conditions, and a high-tech transmission. Not much more data is provided, but who needs figures when you can look at it?! Sampedesign's main purpose for this machine is for all-weather touring in serious comfort...see for yourself if you like what they are doing here...
Viper Motorcycle Company Enters Joint Venture with Ilmor
The two have been working on a 152 cubic-inch V-twin engine for the last six months or so. They will team up to help produce the engine in Plymouth, Michigan, and will work together on marketing the beast. It is expected to be released for sale in 2010.
http://tinyurl.com/ybad8cp
BMW Releases C-1E - Electric Motorcycle With a Roof!
You may remember the BMW C-1 from 2000-2002; a very cool bike which had a roof and looked very strange. It was not sold outside of Europe, though, so only they had the chance to own one, unfortunately. (I do think it would have sold very well here in North America; I would buy some just to start a rental business.) This new model, the C-1E, will not be put into production - again, unfortunately - but it will be used to research ways to reduce the number of motorbike and scooter accidents that happen predominantly in city traffic...Take a look and write BMW to see if they will make one for the rest of us!
Losing James Toseland from MotoGP 'Hugely Disappointing' to British Fans
It goes without saying, actually, that Toseland's departure from the world's premier racing series will upset racing fans in the United Kingdom. But, it has been said now and I think it bears repeating. For the first time in a long time, there will be three Americans in the MotoGP paddock, but no Brits...very disappointing!
http://tinyurl.com/y9ffplq
Loris Capirossi is Sure of Suzuki's GSV-R Making Improvements
Though Capirossi had to retire on lap 20 of the Portuguese Grand Prix, he still feels that the Suzuki MotoGP bike has had some impressive improvements. After all, he was challenging for sixth place when he encountered the technical issue with the GSV-R. He will get the chance to prove this progress in 2010.
http://tinyurl.com/yb4g6rf
Another Update: Honda Adding Additional RC212V for Aoyama
We all read the news about current front-runner in the 250c.c. Grand Prix class, Hiroshi Aoyama, getting a MotoGP ride. But, here is more information on the new team and Honda machine which he will ride...
http://tinyurl.com/ya9yg65
Australian Wild Cards Approved to Race in Phillip Island MotoGP Round
Five riders have been authorized by the FIM to participate in the 125c.c. class at Phillip Island during 15 - 18 October 2009. Australians Andrew Lawson, Dylan Mavin, Nicholas Diles, Brad Gross and Levi Day will all take part in the racing that weekend. This is an awesome opportunity to get some recognition for the local riders who may, one day, race in the series full-time.
http://tinyurl.com/yca73vg
Estoril MotoGP Round Summarized, Again
It seems that the "alien" comment made by Melandri early in the MotoGP season - referring to Lorenzo, Stoner, Rossi and Pedrosa and how they always seem to lead every race - has stuck and is being used in the press and in conversations around the paddock. Anyway, more on last weekend's Portuguese Grand Prix...
http://tinyurl.com/yadvaql
The Insider: http://tinyurl.com/y9xb2wp
Suzuki's 2010 GSX-R Motorcycles Receive Paint and Graphic Updates
The GSX-R600, GSX-R750 and GSX-R1000 have not been updated much technically, according to the press so far. But, they have changed the paint schemes on all of the bikes. They did actually paint the frame and swingarm in dark blue and changed some panels, but not much else. Of course, all we have are pretty pictures. Shown is the new GSX-R1000...
Update from Pharaons Rally in Egypt
This article is not the best as far as grammar and spelling - I think it was just translated using software - but it at least gives us an update of the Egyptian Pharaons Rally. It seems that Cyril Despres is making up time lost early in the rally and is closing on leader Francisco Lopez. For more info, just click the link and see if you can understand it...
http://tinyurl.com/ydu4j76
Leon Camier Very Disappointed With Magny-Cours Performance on Aprilia RSV-4
Camier will be racing with the team next year, but he really wanted to show them what they had when they asked him to ride the new Aprilia RSV-4. Unfortunately, at Magny-Cours, technical issues forced him into two DNF results - not good. What race he did ride was rather impressive; starting from 16th place in both races and making 11th in the first and 9th in the second before bike issues surfaced. So, what about 2010? Well, we will see.
http://tinyurl.com/ya3lbx2
Michael Phillips Wins at NHRA Mid-South Nationals at Memphis Motorsports Park
The main events were delayed due to some rather nasty rain, but the rain did not dampen spirits at the event. After six years without a win, Phillips' Suzuki took the win away from Eddie Krawiec's Harley-Davidson. He was quite happy and so were the fans - people love the underdog!
http://tinyurl.com/yc9spbq
Better coverage of the Pro Stock Motorcycle class: http://tinyurl.com/y8z758y
Another View of the New American Motorcyclist Association
New AMA CEO Rob Dingman has many critics. I cannot be counted among them, not really, but I am not a fan either. I think that there is something going on in the organization that we members do not know about - and will only hear about in some book many years from now. I am happy with the new member benefits - in fact, once I find employment I plan on taking advantage of a few. However, the whole DMG taking over AMA Pro Racing has two sides; good that the AMA has found someone else to manage it, bad that it's DMG! This blogger has a very specific opinion of Mr. Dingman and I think it bears reading...
http://tinyurl.com/y9357l2
Ducati May Reward Aleix Espargaro With MotoGP Contract
Pramac Ducati was very impressed with Espargaro (Aleix, not his brother Pol) at Indianapolis and Misano, where he placed 13th and 11th, respectively. He may be signed to the Pramac team alongside Mika Kallio. We can expect an announcement soon...
http://tinyurl.com/ya7ppue
About Time! Federal Highway Administration Begins Major Study into Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
It has been planned for several years now - and it was announced by the American Motorcyclist Association more than two years ago when they first started asking for funding. The US government had asked that half of the money come from the motorcycle industry and associated groups; this was done early last year. Then, they had to have some test studies to examine the methods to be used for the overall program. Well, finally we will get the study we have been asking for since the Hurt Report was released over 25 years ago!
http://tinyurl.com/ydyjpab
http://tinyurl.com/ydaxsp3
Even more: http://tinyurl.com/yjtgdus
And, More: http://tinyurl.com/yggswnk
Triumph Creates Triumph Motorcycles America Dealer Council
Triumph wants to improve its already stellar US dealer network - consisting of over 170 dealerships - in order to optimize sales and service. The Dealer Council will work to gather best practices from all dealers to help in this down economy, further improve customer service, sales and marketing. This is one more step on Triumph's path to be the best in the industry...
http://tinyurl.com/y9clgto
Review: 2010 Harley-Davidson XR1200
Perhaps this is the bike which H-D should have built ten or more years ago...and, perhaps, they should have released it to the US when they first built it. But, hindsight is 20/20 and the future is very hard to predict. However, I could have told H-D to build this bike even before they launched the VSRC model (which has not sold nearly enough to make up for the development costs involved). So, this is the end of 2009 and we are seeing the new 2010 models come along, so let's take a look at the latest version of the XR1200...
http://tinyurl.com/ybgdo69
Vermeulen Talks About His Upcoming World Superbike Season With Kawasaki
It is old news now, Chris Vermeulen is moving out of MotoGP and into World Superbike with Kawasaki. But, you might want to know what motivated him to make the switch - beyond his seat being taken at Rizla Suzuki - and how he feels about working with the Factory Kawasaki Racing team. After all, Vermeulen wouldn't sign with just any team...
http://tinyurl.com/yagb244
Kawsaki Updates Z1000 for 2010 + Versys First Look
The all-new 2010 Kawasaki Z1000 will certainly turn some heads. The styling is very angular and even European-looking - which, of course, is the main competitor in the 'naked' category. It also has a larger, and completely clean-sheet, engine which displaces 1043c.c. and a new frame which is said to make handling far superior to the previous incarnation.
The Versys has only received some updates and most of them are directed at smoothing out the engine vibes.
http://tinyurl.com/yc5pkmr
http://tinyurl.com/y9828nt
The Versys has only received some updates and most of them are directed at smoothing out the engine vibes.
http://tinyurl.com/yc5pkmr
http://tinyurl.com/y9828nt
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Receives Updates for 2010
Kawasaki's liter-class beast is the Ninja ZX-10R. While not the largest bike in Kawasaki's line-up - by far - it is the most important in the race arena where it competes with other manufacturer's 1000c.c. offerings. For 2010, it has some changes, but the most important may be the all-new steering damper and the newly honed transmission. In fact, the new smooth gear selection may be the best Kawasaki has ever made!
http://tinyurl.com/yatz4lt
Honda Announces Stunning Economic Crisis Victim
Honda will close their Honda R&D Europe (HRE-G) in Offenbach - near Frankfurt, Germany. It is not known if they will move anything to their Italian studio in Rome, but the employees of the company in Germany were shocked to hear the news. This comes right on the heels of Honda's exit from AMA/DMG Pro Racing.
http://tinyurl.com/yczap68
Michelin Crowns Champion Riders on Final Day at Barber Motorsports Park
Michelin also handed out some US$87,500 to the racers - whom use their rubber on their race machines - who were invited to participate. The weather at Barber was not exactly decent racing weather, but the weekend still managed to impress spectators and to settle all nine Grand Championships...
http://tinyurl.com/ydmyzpw
Bradley Smith Finishes Race at Portugal
He crashed out of last year's Estoril GP - and had yet to register a top 6 finish - and crashed in practice at the track on Friday. But, he did well in the race for the first time in his career at Portugal; he took third place!
http://tinyurl.com/y92uo59
Montana Woman Rides 8000 Miles Through North and South America
Dr. Sylvia Owen rode a 2007 Kawasaki KLR650 through five US states and nine Latin American countries during her solo ride of over 8000 miles. She had to do some extensive preparation - she even learned Spanish - and planning, and she needed help a few times. But, she made the trip and learned some very important life lessons in the process...
http://tinyurl.com/y8ebsb7
Dani Pedrosa Set New MotoGP Lap Record at Estoril
Pedrosa finished third on the weekend MotoGP race in Portugal. However, he was the fastest man on the circuit in MotoGP - ever. Though he could not run with Stoner and Lorenzo, he proved that he has the ability to do so...the next round will be very interesting...
http://tinyurl.com/y9wmz6o
Simoncelli is Back in the 250 Grand Prix Championship
Marco Simoncelli pulled himself closer to the 250c.c. World Championship by winning his race in Portugal. Of his two rivals to the crown, Aoyama only finished fourth and Bautista crashed out of the race. That means that Simoncelli is only 28 points away from taking his second consecutive title...
http://tinyurl.com/yb736jy
2010 Kawasaki Concours 14 to get Traction Control!
The Concours has won several awards since its introduction in 2007 (as a 2008 model), and has many happy owners. However, Kawasaki is not above making something good even better - and answering the requests of owners. The 2010 model will have traction control for that huge ZX-14 sourced mill, which should make riding it even more fun!
http://tinyurl.com/yd3hvrk
http://tinyurl.com/yd3hvrk
Good Interview with Irish Racer Jamie Hamilton from BSB
He took the British Superstock 600 title for Kawasaki - the first British Championship for them since 1992 - and he is only now 18 years old. He is a shy kid who just knows how to ride a motorcycle very fast. Now, what else do you know about him? Not much? Well, have a read:
http://tinyurl.com/ydzszoa
British Superbike Championship Concludes at Oulton Park
It is the final race of the 2009 BSB season, and it will happen this weekend, 8 - 10 October, at Oulton Park. Though the Superbike Champion has already been named, the British Supersport Championship is yet to be decided. And, the racing will be good as many racers try to better their finishing in order to get picked up for next season and to improve their overall points totals...
http://tinyurl.com/yc4wtjf
British Rider Laverty Needs a Miracle at Portimao Round
On 25 October 2009, the World Superbike Championship will land in Portugal at the Portimao and U.K. rider Eugene Laverty will need a miracle to take the World Supersport Championship from Cal Crutchlow. As it stands, his performance at Magny-Cours pushed him back 19 points from his countryman from a 2 point deficit before the French round.
http://tinyurl.com/ydv4ow7
Camier and Byrne to Comprise Second Aprilia WSBK Team
Current BSB Champion Leon Camier and former BSB Champion Shane Byrne will make up the second Aprilia World Superbike team for 2010. Camier rode on the RSV-4 at Magny-Cours, but failed to finish when his machine broke down in both races. Byrne has ridden for Aprilia's MotoGP entry in 2004.
http://tinyurl.com/y8fs9pq
Repsol to Remain Factory Honda Sponsor in MotoGP
After such success, why would they want to cease their partnership? Well, the economic situation is now improving but oh so very slowly, so money is tough to come by; that would be one good reason. However, Repsol and Honda have combined to win 98 race victories and 9 World Championships. Plus, who does not recognize the Repsol badging on Honda motorcycles?
http://tinyurl.com/ye9exy9
Ryan Dungey Helps USA to 20th Motocross of Nations Title
Dungey managed to finish third in the first MX1 event, but he took the win in the Open+MX1 race. Combine that with the excellent work of Ivan Tedesco and the rest of the team and the USA took the championship over France for the 20th time! The event was held in Franciacorta in Italy over the weekend where 90,000 people cheered on the various national teams. Go USA!
http://tinyurl.com/y9paj79
Better article on the event: http://sxdirt.com/?p=348
New from the Las Vegas BikeFest 2009
So, you may have to ignore the references to the 'wet t-shirt' and bikini contests - unless you are really into silicone-enhanced people - but the show itself had some interesting goings-on. The "Artistry in Iron" contest actually had some non-chopper-clone bikes which looked great; it seems that even custom builders are starting to open their eyes (that could be a bit premature as there were several Jesse James and OCC knock-offs present). Anyway, have a look and see if it would be worth a trip next year to the 10th version.
http://tinyurl.com/yawxgab
More Out of Portugal MotoGP Round
We all saw how Lorenzo dominated the racing at Estoril yesterday, but Stoner really impressed with his comeback - of course, he was well-rested. And Rossi had some setup issues - and lack of grip - which led him to not even finish on the podium - and odd finish in Portugal for him...
http://tinyurl.com/yaf8otp
The Story of Today's MotoGP Race from Matt Roberts
If you are unfamiliar with him, just check the Wikipedia site and see for yourself. Roberts is a huge fan of motorcycle racing and covers it for the BBC in the U.K. Have a read:
http://tinyurl.com/y9pg5h7
Report from Michelin’s U.S. Motorcycle Championship at Barber Motorsports Park
The invitation-only racing event saw some very interesting racing among the US racers who used Michelin tires during the year. Robert Jensen was the real star of the Saturday racing by winning the Supersport Pro and Superstock Pro Races. He wasn't the only standout, though, as Matt Lynn challenged Jensen and others throughout the racing. Take a read and enjoy...
http://tinyurl.com/y96raz9
Portuguese Grand Prix MotoGP Race Results
Again, if you have not seen the race yet, you may want to close this blog ASAP. If you have seen it, then you will know that Rossi did not have a good race - at least, not for him - finishing in fourth. His teammate, Jorge Lorenzo took victory at the Estoril track, which closes the point gap even more. Casey Stoner - just returned from a long absence due to a mystery illness - pulled in a second place finish, with Dani Pedrosa finishing in front of Rossi in third...
http://tinyurl.com/yd8hg8h
Bridgestone Review of MotoGP Qualifying in Portugal
This is a bit late, but it is an interesting read when you remember that Bridgestone has never won at Portugal. Of course, this year they will (and do) due to the spec tire rule in MotoGP...
http://tinyurl.com/y96emyr
Confirmed: Hiroshi Aoyama to Ride in MotoGP in 2010!
He is leading the 250c.c. championship and now he will have a chance to race against the best in the world in MotoGP. Apparently, Honda wanted him as he turned down an offer to ride with Randy de Puniet on the LCR Honda squad, but ended up on a new Honda satellite team run by Swiss 125 and 250 boss Daniel Epp. 2010 will be yet another very competitive year for MotoGP...
http://tinyurl.com/y8emvr9
Results from 250 Race at Portuguese Grand Prix
The 250c.c. race had a very tight second place finish. The timing screen showed a difference between riders Hector Barbera and Mike Di Meglio to be less than .001 seconds from each other - upon further review, though, it was declared that they tied! Read the link for the final designation. Marco Simoncelli, however, dominated the race; he was in sixth place at one point, but managed to take the lead and hold it by more than 6 seconds through the rest of the race...I sure hope it is shown on TV here!
http://tinyurl.com/ycqfrkb
Basic results: http://tinyurl.com/yazf2hh
More on Simoncelli's 2009 title hunt: http://tinyurl.com/y96onyg
Portuguese Grand Prix 125 Race Results
If you have not seen it and you plan to, please ignore this post. Julian Simon may have started on pole, but he ended up crashing and handing the lead and the win to Pol Espargaro. Simon missed his chance to claim the title, but he still scored valuable points by finishing 12th - his crash happened while he was leading the race by a massive 6 seconds!
http://tinyurl.com/ya8ehzc
Basic results: http://tinyurl.com/ybgu5wh
World Superbike Magny-Cours Superpole Results
Ben Spies managed to come back and take the Superpole qualifying by storm at the Magny-Cours track in France. His nearest rival in the qualifying run, Jonathan Rea, was almost a half-second behind him. What this means for today's races...well, we will see. However, just FYI, Haga qualified back in 5th place...should prove interesting!
http://tinyurl.com/yckuepa
From NHRA Mid-South Nationals in Memphis
It seems that Hector Arana will have the top position in the Pro Stock Motorcycle NHRA races for today. He took the top spot by piloting his Lucas Oil Buell to 6.851 seconds at 195.03 mph in the quarter-mile, which is the fastest time in NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle history! If he can run it less than 6.919 seconds, he will claim a new e.t. record run.
http://tinyurl.com/ycj88wx
Motoczysz to Work with India's Bajaj Auto Enter Joint Venture
The two companies will work together on a clean-sheet, super-efficient, 'Next Generation' automobile. The results will be something we have not seen before and which will be the pinnacle of technology and innovation in the new 'green' economy. With the forward thinking minds of Bajaj Auto and Michael Czysz, we are certainly expecting to see something amazing!
http://tinyurl.com/yeqqax3
Important 2010 Moto2 News from MotoGP.com
I usually just let the RSS feed on the left of the home page here tell anyone visiting this site about the happenings at motogp.com. However, this one is rather important; it is a list of all the teams which have been accepted to participate in the 2010 Moto2 Championship (spec Honda 600c.c. engines in custom chassis). Interestingly enough, not a single team - of the 39! - will be running 250c.c. two-strokes...
http://tinyurl.com/yabb8pe
An Interview With Honda UK's VFR1200F Test Rider
Dave Hancock is his name and his review of the new sport-touring motorcycle is just glowing. Of course, he may be a bit biased as the same company which makes the new 2010-model machine is the one paying him. However, it does seem that he is being honest in his portrayal of the ride.
http://tinyurl.com/yabkcm4
Ducati Demo Ride Tour Dates - Texas, Arizona and California
Those who happen to have local Ducati shops in your US or Canadian city or town know about the Ducati demo trucks which travels throughout North America giving people the chance to test ride a new Ducati. Well, if you don't, you do now! If you live in Texas, Arizona or California, you may want to click the link...
http://tinyurl.com/ybqdlnh
Another Electric Motorcycle Design - the Eboard Tracker
This one looks to be more of a design exercise as there seems to be little room for a decent-sized battery. But, it does have hub-motors and a very distinct bend towards an old-school board track motorcycle - it really looks good even versus the new E-Cub from Honda. It is obvious that designer Jean Francois Vicente does know what he is doing!
New Motobecane Motivo Electric Motorcycle Concept
Designer Miguel Angel Iranzo Sanchez of Spain has produced this rather interesting-looking electric bike concept. The attention to detail is quite extensive and the wood and leather bits make it look like a 'craft' motorcycle. It is only an idea at present, but he may end up producing it for the Spanish market and beyond!
The New Indian Motorcycle Company - Will it Survive This Time?
That is a very good question as Indian has been resurrected numerous times since the original company closed down in 1953. However, the new owners - Stellican Ltd. of England - seems to have a solid business plan and is dedicated to making beautiful and rock-solid reliable motorcycles. The new line consists mostly of high-dollar and high-end 'big, bad American cruiser.' Will it work? Only time will answer that question...
http://tinyurl.com/ydhe5ff
P.S. You may need to register - FREE - with the site to read the article.
2010 BMW G450X Enduro Motorcycle Close-Up
BMW was rather bold to release a 450c.c. dirt-biased motorcycle to compete against the big four of Japan, but they have had some success. Their new model of G450X has had some important improvements and they are NUMEROUS! They could end up unseating the Japanese off-road machines in their class as BMW has pointed this bike in the same direction as the bikes from the BMW Motorrad Motorsport team...
http://tinyurl.com/yczzwjs
Ben Spies to Ride as 'Wild Card' at Valencia MotoGP Round
Well, he has signed on to race in the series for 2010, so why not give him a chance to run with his future series competitors in MotoGP. Yamaha will provide him with a YZR-M1 test bike from Japan.
http://tinyurl.com/y8z3r9e
Word is de Puniet is Fully Recovered From Injury
De Puniet and his LCR Honda team arrived in Portugal in good spirits. The three-week break provided de Puniet with enough time to recover from his injury - a fractured ankle. He says that it still gets swollen, but he can use it fine to race!
http://tinyurl.com/y9rmfu8
MotoGP Qualifying at Estoril in Portugal
It took some time to get published, but here is the final qualifying order for Sunday's Portuguese Grand Prix at Estoril. It looks like Lorenzo is at the top, Rossi is close behind and Stoner seems to be healthy enough to take third in the qualifying...
http://tinyurl.com/y9w74ed
Finally Confirmed: Vermeulen to Ride Kawasaki in World Superbike
Many posts over recent months have wondered exactly where Chris Vermeulen will be spending 2010. It has finally been decided; he has signed a two-year deal with Kawasaki to race the ZX-10R in the World Superbike Championship with Paul Bird Motorsport. It would not be wise to count him out of challenging for the win at every race in 2010...
http://tinyurl.com/yersel7
Julian Simon Takes 125cc Pole Position at Estoril Portuguese Grand Prix
He was on fire, or so the reports say. In either case, Simon will have a great chance to clench his title this weekend. Yet another reason to watch this weekend!
http://tinyurl.com/ya65nhz
Final qualifying list: http://tinyurl.com/yerfttt
Fischer Motor Company Will Increase Production of 2010 MRX
The machine has been doing very well for Fischer, but most of their sales were to Australia and Europe. The management of Fischer believes that this is due to the high-end components on the MRX which seem to make people think of the bike as a 'track-only' in the US. Well, it's not just for that - it is a street-legal and capable sport tourer as well! The price sure is good considering the overall package...
KTM Wll Pull Out of 125c.c. Grand Prix World Championships
KTM has decided to focus on their youth programs instead of racing full tilt at an international title. They will continue the Red Bull Rookies Cup and will support certain racing teams in Austria and Germany who ride their 125c.c. machines. It seems that they will be working for youth withe their smaller bikes while they put more work into the large-displacement road racing.
http://tinyurl.com/yj35qag
Alastair Seeley Will Ride Full Superbike at Oulton BSB Round
He is already Superstock champion of the British Superbike Championship, but he also rode a new 'Evo' class at the last round where he managed an incredible showing for a superstock engine in a superbike frame. Given that result, Relentless Suzuki will be giving him a chance with a full superbike!
http://tinyurl.com/yzlx6u4
Friday at Magny-Cours World Superbike Round
News, news , news; we just can't get enough of it. So, for your reading pleasure here are notes from Friday's practice runs at the Magny-Cours circuit where the 14th and penultimate round of the World Superbike Championship is being held this weekend.
http://tinyurl.com/yfzs8wa
http://tinyurl.com/yhvruoe
http://tinyurl.com/yjgjxvq
Doug Chandler Opens Bike Shop in Salinas, California
Chandler is well-known to fans of American motorcycle racing. In his hometown of Salinas, two months ago, he opened Doug Chandler Performance at 517 Abbott St. He does repairs on and tunes motorcycles and bicycles, sells accessories and plans to be selling two brands of bicycle. Chandler stays in touch with the racing community and still teaches one-on-one with new motorcycle racers. If you are nearby, stop in and you might just meet an AMA Hall of Famer, a great racer and a nice guy!
http://tinyurl.com/y9tzrok
MV Agusta to Announce New Model Soon
Could this be the rumored F5?! Or, will this be the confirmation of the so-called 'F3' 675c.c. triple which we saw testing on the roads of Italy? We will have to wait a few more days to know the truth. I am hopeful that this will be the 'F5' which some groups and forums have been discussing lately. In either case, I know that I will want one!
This is the first link, but I am not sure what they mean by "after a disappointing launch of a visually identical, but all "new" Brutale," as that bike has some significant design differences as well as engine changes. I guess they are not fans...
http://tinyurl.com/y8hjs9e
The next is a bit more 'nice.'
http://tinyurl.com/y96ye3u
I am waiting anxiously...if anyone else has info, I can keep a secret. But, I hope you can't!
Honda Now Has 40 Years in The Great White North - Canada
They started there like they did most everywhere, with motorcycles and power equipment. That was 1969 and by 1973 they were selling automobiles to the country. Honda Canada Inc. is now 40 years old! It's amazing how different the world is now...but, even more people love motorcycles!
http://tinyurl.com/yepyjjh
Ben Spies Talks About His MotoGP Future - As Does Rossi and Lorenzo
This interview was conducted recently - as in, after the announcement was made of his switch to the Tech 3 MotoGP team - and is rather fun to read. He is a real professional and his mom taught him well!
http://tinyurl.com/yf4rx3e
Rossi and Lorenzo are quite happy with the Texan (of two in MotoGP now) coming to compete in their class. They both like him and expect big things from the racer. However, they both also stress the difference between Superbikes and MotoGP machines, as the latter is more akin to riding a GP 250c.c. motorcycle.
http://tinyurl.com/y9ap6qj
MidAmerica Vintage Motorcycle Auction in Minneapolis on 17 October 2009
This annual auction is known for having top-quality motorcycles from yester-year. You will see everything from vintage Triumphs and Royal Enfields to rare Harley-Davidsons - all for sale and ready to go under the hammer. The event will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on 17 October, but you can also bid online if you cannot make it to the Mid-West anytime soon. Follow the link and you will get the details!
http://tinyurl.com/yap49zt
BMW S1000RR Takes on Bol d'Or 24-Hour Endurance
The machine was run by a team from Poland, with little factory support, and yet they managed to bring home fourth place in their class! That is certainly encouraging, especially given the results in World Superbike where they are competitive, but not for the podium yet. Since it is a completely new machine, we should expect to see more success as they learn more about how to tune it. Good going BMW S1000RR!
http://tinyurl.com/ycyy377
Asphalt in Europe - Just How Safe is It?
I found this by accident and actually found it informative. If you have ever wondered if road builders keep motorcyclists in mind when they construct our various paths through the world. Well, at least in Europe, many safety agencies are interested and they seem ready to make it better for us two-wheel riders.
http://tinyurl.com/y8olajd
Like "The Dark Knight"? Want to be Batman?
Well, if you have not heard yet, a company in Canada is now making a fully-licensed Dark Knight Batman leather riding suit. It even has CE-approved armor, Kevlar panels and Spandex stretch panels for easily getting into the seat and comfort. This has really started up the blogospehere, so you may want to get one now as they will only be making 1000 of them.
http://www.udreplicas.com/
World Superbike First Practice at Magny-Cours
Jonathan Rea is lead the practice at the Magny-Cours circuit during World Superbike's first practice of the weekend. A fellow Brit, Leon Haslam, took up second place; Haga went to third and Ben Spies only managed seventh in the practice - looks like he has some setup work to do!
http://tinyurl.com/ybetkvm
Looking for a Piece of History - 1984 Yamaha RZ350
I raced against these bikes back in the day, and they have some great low-end grunt. I have always thought about owning one, but have yet to get the opportunity. If you happen to be heading to the Barber Vintage Festival next weekend, this owner will deliver it to you there!
Another Trip to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Alabama
Not much I can add to the words said about the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. If you know about it, then you know it is an amazing destination which every gear-head in the world should visit. If you know next to nothing about it, please take the link and have a look! After all - it is a paradise!
http://tinyurl.com/yezj246
Hector Barbera Leads 250 Practice on Friday at Portugal
Barbera, who will be in MotoGP in 2010, did very well in Friday's practice. Oddly, Hiroshi Aoyama only managed to be 10th fastest on the day - very odd for the Championship leader...
http://tinyurl.com/ybjovkm
Jorge Lorenzo Posts Fastest Time in First Practice in Portugal
He is on top of the world - and the time sheets this weekend, but Lorenzo is unlikely to sit back and relax. He is well aware that his teammate, a certain Valentino Rossi, is eagerly awaiting his turn to run at the front. And, of course, who can forget Dani Pedrosa...he is become a true wildcard this season!
http://tinyurl.com/ye87ag8
More detail: http://tinyurl.com/ybsfb4q
First Ever Michelin U.S. Motorcycle Championship to be Held at Barber
Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama will host the invitation-only Michelin event during 3 -4 October - this coming weekend! Over US$87,000 is in the purse for the various championships up for grabs to racers who were invited to attend. Spectators, of course, are very welcome to come and experience the event first-hand! Kevin Schwantz will be there too!
http://tinyurl.com/y9ofagl
A Weekend at the Goodwood Revival of 2009
For those who could not make it - including myself - the Goodwood Revival went off last weekend at the Goodwood circuit, of all places. Of course, if you reside nearby, you probably have known about the festival - but, those who are not so near may not be familiar. In either case, the linked article provides a nice overview of what the weekend held for those who attended. The event is well-known and well-attended for good reason!
http://tinyurl.com/ydzfakj
Clement Desalle Joins Teka Suzuki World MX1 Team for 2010
Desalle is the current Belgian Champion, but he wants to try his hands at the FIM World Motocross Championship in the MX1 class. He will race alongside teammate Steve Ramon. Desalle has impressed the team with some seriously fast racing during the 2009 season, so the team sees a legitimate chance at a title in 2010.
http://tinyurl.com/yc6wops
Building the Track for a 2009 GEICO Powersports AMA Endurocross Race
This was taken at the Jerome Schottenstein Center at Ohio State where the next round of the AMA Endurocross Series takes place this weekend. Amazing how much work goes into preparing the tracks for these events!
http://tinyurl.com/y8qy48g
Giacomo Agostini on Video - Footage and Music Only
OK, so there are also some short written titles, but they appear to be in a Cyrillic alphabet - maybe Russian? - and I cannot translate them. However, all that matters is that several clips from Ago's history are all put together into this 7 minute video...worth watching, as when Ago races, he is always worth watching...
http://tinyurl.com/yc5mekm
San Luis Obispo, California to Host "The SLO Classic Motorcycle Rally"
An amazing show is planned for 8 - 11 October 2009 in SLO, California, and is organized by the Central Coast Classic Motorcycle Club (CCCMC). The CCCMC is a well-regarded club and they have used their connections to bring in some awesome motorcycle personalities and several very historic motorcycles. Burt Munro's custom 1920 Indian Scout, which he ran at the Bonneville Salt Flats to win several records, will be in attendance along with the present owner. Don Emde will also ride along with participants and tell some stories of his racing career...it will be a very full weekend! Make sure to stop by if you are able...
First Take: 2010 Honda NT700V - New to USA
In Europe they have had this machine for a little while, but us North Americans have had to do without - seems to be the case with several interesting motorcycles - but we get it next year! It is a rather nifty sport-tourer with some rather nice styling touches - A good-looking bike which can take you anywhere. While there is no riding impression here, it is at least seen close-up.
More details - though, not much - about the US version of the NT700V (which should be nearly identical to the European model)
Some Important Recall Notices for Ducati, Buell, Honda and Yamaha
Most of the recent recalls are collected here for your perusal and help. I hope that you are not affected, but if you are, call up your dealer and make an appointment soon!
http://tinyurl.com/y96wfv2
Confirmed: Toseland to Ride Alongside Crutchlow at Yamaha WSB for 2010
We finally have a confirmation on where James Toseland will be racing next year. He will be on the Sterilgarda Yamaha World Superbike team with teammate Cal Crutchlow, who is moving to Superbike from the Yamaha World Supersport team. At least Toseland will be racing, which he should be!
http://tinyurl.com/yaasqvm
Turns Out That Billy Joel - Piano Man - is an Avid Motorcyclist
Joel has been riding since the 1960s when he took a friend's Triumph out for a ride. Even with his career and the warnings he received from agents and record executives, he continues to ride. And, he wants to get out the message of motorcycle safety - riding with the proper gear and getting quality training.
http://tinyurl.com/yaohc5r
Sweet Wayne Gardner Moriwaki Replica Kawasaki Photos
The owner wishes to remain anonymous, but the motorcycle he made will certainly not!
Canadian Team Sets Record at Bonneville Salt Flats
There are many of these coming out in the press lately; it takes time for teams to return home and for journalists to get their stories printed. The group from Regina, Saskatchewan, consists of Al Elmer, Paul Godfrey, Peter Hintz and Jae Norelius. They took their 1972 Kawasaki 350 to 94.433 mph!
http://tinyurl.com/yctrwvs
Valentino Rossi FINALLY Has An Official Website!
It took some serious effort to make this a reality, but it is now online and ready. As is usual, Rossi had a great deal of input on the design and content of the site and it does show. Take the link and read about it or take the link below it and see the actual site!
http://tinyurl.com/yep7jty
http://www.valentinorossi.com/
Tom Liberatore Takes 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 to 138.491 MPH
Liberatore of Talmage, Califronia, caught the Bonneville speed bug in 2003 when he first visited the Bonneville Salt Flats with some friends. Since 2004, he has been taking his Guzzi V7 to run the Flats since 2004. He managed to set two records that year and another one in 2005, but he also blew up his share of engines along the way. This year, he went 138.491 mph on his Italian push-rod V-twin and set another record!
http://tinyurl.com/yepnxje
Official: Ben Spies to Tech 3 MotoGP in 2010
Now it seems that a team boss Herve Poncharal has confirmed that American Ben Spies will be riding alongside Tech 3 Yamaha rider - and American - Colin Edwards in 2010. Poncharal went on to say that James Toseland will be moving back to World Superbike with Spies' former team, Sterilgarda Yamaha - though, I have not found another confirmation of that. In either case, Spies will finally be in MotoGP!
http://tinyurl.com/y9u7dem
New News on Camier's Ride on Aprilia World Superbike Team
Apparently, Loen Camier was already looking to ride an Aprilia in World Superbike. At least, according to Aprilia's Daniele Tosatti, he had been in talks with them since the beginning of the racing season. It seems that his trip with the team to Magny Cours is a test...for next year.
http://tinyurl.com/yclo5wy
More Speculation on James Toseland's Future
As we now know, it is likely that Ben Spies will be taking Toseland's ride at Tech 3 Yamaha, so where will he end up? Some people are saying World Superbike, and that makes sense considering that he was at Imola and was speaking with teams about a ride. However, he still has a chance to end up with Pramac Ducati (unlikely), a new Yamaha-based Hayate team, or with the new FB Corse team...more waiting for us fans...
http://tinyurl.com/yb3xnz8
Fausto Gresini Speaks About MotoGP and His Team
Gresini was at the World Superbike round at Imola, Italy, and took some time to answer questions about his teams future in MotoGP. See what he has to say about his two current and his two new riders for 2010...
http://tinyurl.com/ye7z27f
Riding Impression: 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager 1700
The latest - and, some say just late - Kawasaki has re-entered the long-distance, full-dress touring world again. The new Voyager 1700 is a technologically advanced, superb-handling, retro-styled serious road-eating machine! The linked review is very detailed and well-written, so take a look...even if you are not 'into' V-twin touring bikes.
Honda Also to Show Electric Scooter and Electric Cub at Tokyo Motor Show
Honda has promised to enter the electric two-wheeled market within 2 years back in December of 2008. Well, they have done it, but no details have been released as to where it will be sold. The new electric Honda EV-Cub is quite lovely to look at, but the EVE-neo scooter looks much more normal. In either case, we are about to have a plethora of electric motorcycles to choose from...amazing!
Jamie Hamilton Takes BSB Superstock 600 Title for 2009
The Gearlink Kawasaki team in the British Superbike Championship Superstock 600 series has taken the first title for Kawasaki Motors UK since 1992 when they won the British Superbike Championship. Hamilton did not finish the race, but the disqualification of rider Luke Mossey - thus scoring no points in the race - allowed Hamilton to take the Championship!
http://tinyurl.com/ydgwed7
BSB Kawasaki Rider Tristan Palmer Disappointed With His Season
He has only 35 points heading into the three-race season finale at Outlon Park. His teammate, John Laverty, has been the focus of the Buildbase Kawasaki team, according to Palmer, due to financial issues. After all, in the second race at Silverstone, his engine exploded and caused a red flag. His future is unsure at this point, but he is not worried as he is focusing on finishing the season...
http://tinyurl.com/yc7uhm7
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