CurrentMoto: January 2010

Sunday Afternoon Diversions - Blue Ridge Parkway Turns 75!

The Blue Ridge Parkway's first pavement was laid on 11 September 1935; it's 469-mile length started at the Cumberland Knob right next to the North Carolina and Virginia border region. Many local events will be held in honor of this milestone including the Blue Ridge Bike Fest, 9 - 11 April 2010, and the Wheels Through Time Museum will hold an exhibit entitled “Motoring the Blue Ridge Parkway." It would be a great ride for your summer trip. For more details, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yb3fkm9

Sunday Morning Moto News - NZ Superbike & AMA Supercross

Again this weekend, Andrew Stroud and Robbie Bugden shared victories at the NZ Superbike Championship round at Levels Raceway. In the 600c.c. category, James Smith is dominating proceedings and took a 2 - 1 in this weekend's two events. This means that it could all come down to the final event - the fifth round - before we know who the champions are in this series...very good racing!

http://tinyurl.com/y8auwjd

The San Francisco AMA Supercross round is over now and we have a new winner this season; Kawasaki's Ryan Villopoto has now won his first Supercross race. In the West Lites Class, Honda's Trey Canard led the event from start to finish to take his first win of the year as well. Ryan Dungey crashed hard in his race and that is what helped Villopoto take his historic win. For more on the race, take the link...

http://tinyurl.com/y9l4c9p

Saturday Evening Moto News - James Stewart & Hopper

It turns out that the injury which James Stewart took at the Phoenix AMA Supercross round. The x-rays missed a broken bone in his hand, but an MRI picked it up. So, he must undergo surgery soon and Dr. Arthur Ting, well-known sports surgeon, completed the surgery on Friday. Stewart could be out for six weeks!

http://tinyurl.com/yf6qvao

It is FINALLY official; John Hopkins has signed with Team Hammer to campaign their M4 Monster Suzuki GSX-R1000. He has done it a few times before, and the field is much more limited than usual. It looks like Hopper will pick up another Championship in Daytona SportBike - could happen, right?

http://tinyurl.com/y8tcetk

Saturday Afternoon Moto News - Cadwell Park, BUB Exhaust & Maxxis Contingency

Over in the U.K. , the iconic Cadwell Park circuit is undergoing some renovations to improve safety. It turns out that the 80 meters of track they had to work on was much tougher to do that first thought - they had to move a lake! OK, so maybe it wasn't that much, but they did have to manipulate a huge amount of earth to accomplish the fix.

http://tinyurl.com/yk24a93

BUB Enterprises is now the first aftermarket exhaust company to produce exhaust products which have catalytic converters built-in. The California Air Resources Board has just awarded them the permit to produce the Harley-Davidson exhaust systems. Isn't innovation great! Good pipes which are also environmentally friendly - though, I doubt they will sell well as H-D riders rarely care about such things.

http://tinyurl.com/yhwlwuc

Maxxis, well-known tire manufacturer, is offering over US$1 Million for contingencies in both ATV and dirt bike racing series all over the US. All monies will be paid in cash, not coupons or gift cards. And, they will be paying for finished from first through fifth, in many cases. For details, check the link.

http://tinyurl.com/y9y7ydh

More Morning Moto News - Moto2 @ Valencia, Steve Parrish & Road Racerhead

Some of the Moto2 teams were also out at Velncia doing some testing. Tech 3 was there with both riders, but left early due to the terrible weather. The Tech 3 team just cannot seem to get time on a track without some inclement weather interrupting them. Both Yuki Takahashi and Raffaele de Rosa had time on the circuit. Even Herve Poncharal thinks they may be cursed...

http://tinyurl.com/yc93xcc

Steve Parrish was at an event centered around the new Capcom MotoGP 09/10 video game. So, one enterprising press attendee took some time to interview the well-known motorcycle personality. Parrish is a fixture in worldwide motorcycle racing - as if you do not already know that. He is an interesting person as well, so take some time and read this interview.

http://tinyurl.com/y9ebm2m

Over at Road Racer X, their Road Racerhead column is in the midst of wondering if the old days of Carl Fogarty will return for Great Britain - a time when English riders start winning WSBK and even dominating the sport as they once did. Well, there is a chance now considering how many riders from the U.K. are competing in the WSBK paddock in 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/yzc9hdb

More Morning Moto News - WSBK, UAE Sportbike & Ben Townley

The Valencia testing of some World Superbike teams is now moving along just fine. In fact, Carlos Checa managed to get his Althea Ducati to the top of the lap charts. Aprilia, BMW and Ducati are there testing, with factory Ducati finishing up on Thursday, and the privateer Althea team still at the track. Aprilia left early dues to the weather earlier in the week and BMW was at the bottom of the timesheet.

http://tinyurl.com/yhrydmx

Now, just a bit south and east of the WSBK racers we have the UAE Sportbike Championship. On Friday, all the motorcycle racing was held. In the premier class, Aprilia-mounted Arushen Moodley took both victories available to him. In the 600c.c. class, Yamaha man Jussi Hoikka took a hard-fought victory. For the rest, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yhx9zy3

New Zealand native Ben Townley will be joining the European MX1 Championship for three rounds as he has now recovered from his 2008 injury. He already won the New Zealand Championship title and will return to US competition after his stint in Europe.

http://tinyurl.com/ybaja8m

Saturday Morning Moto News - Bakker Nelis, Recalls & Buell Liquidation

Remember the Suzuki TL1000? It had a great engine, but was let down just a bit by its chassis. Well, Dutch chassis man Nico Bakker has taken the engine from that Suzuki machine and placed it a frame of his own design - it is destined to become a Triumph Speed Triple competitor, but it is a bit more expensive. Take the the link to see for yourself...

http://tinyurl.com/y97xeg2

We have heard endless articles written about the Aprilia RSV-4 engine recall...but, we have not heard much about Kawasaki's recall of their 2009 Super Sherpa KL250G9F. Apparently, there is an issue with plastic pieces - from the painting process - getting into the engine and seizing a camshaft. You need to get that one checked quick!

http://tinyurl.com/yzhzllh

Over at the former Buell plant the liquidation of the factory has now started. There were many interesting items available on the first day, but there were only a few 'great deals' available at this time. The vehicles, for instance, were all at Blue Book value. It must have been a rather sad day for fans of the marque...but some got good deals and some will get them later.

http://tinyurl.com/yfwxlue

More Afternoon Moto News - TTXGP Out of Isle of Man! David Bettencourt RIP & Norton, New

The TT Zero event, which just happens to be run by the ACU, is displacing the Isle of Man round of the TTXGP. There is a great deal of information after the link, so you should probably just go there to read the details. But, it just gets really sad when money and politics (which are everywhere) start to make our sport more complicated and harder to deal with. This move by the Isle of Man Tourism people is simply idiotic. I hope that the TTXGP sues them!

http://tinyurl.com/ycbw8nq

David Bettencourt has died while fighting leukemia and awaiting a bone marrow transplant. David's father, Dick, founded Bettencourt Honda over 65 years ago, and the name is a big part of the motorcycling culture. The dealership has sponsored hundreds of racers in its time. David was a championship-level dirt track and ice racer and will be remembered as a good friend to many people.

http://tinyurl.com/ydhfvx4

Nort0n, the new Norton that is, will be at the MCN Motorcycle Show in London. Honestly, did you expect any different? Of course Norton will be there!

http://tinyurl.com/ya7kceh

More Afternoon Moto News - AMA Arenacross, AHRMA at Daytona & Sturgis

The AMA Arenacross series will be returning to Kansas City for its fourth round this coming weekend. It is shaping up to be a competitive season in the Championship; well, except for Kawasaki’s Tyler Bowers who is dominating the racing so far this year. For more details, you know what to do...

http://tinyurl.com/yafnqoe

The AHRMA has just released their schedule of events for the 2010 Daytona Bike Week event in Florida. The event will be held 26 February to 6 March. The list of events is rather interesting as it spreads the AHRMA events over the entire week; that means that, if you want to see them all, you have to be there all week. So, make your plans to attend now; though, it may be too late to get local accommodations...

http://tinyurl.com/yd83pkb

They are already aware of their status as you can tell by the name (which is just not right, somehow) - maybe the owner has a huge ego? The Legendary Buffalo Chip is getting ready for the Sturgis Rally in South Dakota. It is the 70th anniversary (just like the H-D 100th, it is not completely true), so there will be a huge line-up. For all of that information, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/ycj3ytg

Friday Afternoon Moto News - Neil Kent, Bosch ABS & Pink Kawasaki

Neil Kent has taken the Austin Munks Trophy for the fourth time! He will be presented the award today for his performance at the 2009 Manx Grand Prix. Kent was the highest-placed Lincolnshire rider and that is why he gets the award. He shares the trophy with North Lincolnshire's Guy Martin.

http://tinyurl.com/yamvqcb

Bosch's motorcycle ABS system has won a big award in Germany. They call it the 'Yellow Angel' award and it was given to them for their work in improving road safety for motorcyclists. They have done excellent work and their system certainly does work well...Good going Bosch!

http://tinyurl.com/ydrq6y7

Kawasaki Motors USA will be doing its best to bring attention to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure cause by hosting a 24-hour training dirt bike training seminar being held on 13 February 2010. It will be held at the Monster Energy AMA Supercross event in Anaheim, California. What a great way to work for a charity and bring hope to so many!

http://tinyurl.com/yanpjw3

Even More Morning News - Brett Smith, Robbie Bugden & Phillip Island

Brett Smith, former president of S&S Cycle, who make those better V-Twin engines that end up in many worldwide customs, has moved on to Baja Motorsports. In fact, he is in China now touring their production facilities to get up to speed on the company itself. With Smith in charge, big things could happen for the Chinese motorcycle industry in the United States. Of course, he does have some work to do!

http://tinyurl.com/yeodb5d

Well, Robbie Bugden is not giving up on the NZ Superbike title - but, we knew he wouldn't. He is going for two outright wins at the event this weekend at Levels Raceway. After he is through with NZ, he will be moving over into the Australian Superbike Championship. This man keeps himself busy!

http://tinyurl.com/ydscxj8

Two stories on Phillip Island today. The first is about the Australian Superbike Championship practice at the circuit, which started yesterday and will continue through today. The first day saw Suzuki-mounted Josh Waters take the fastest lap.

http://tinyurl.com/y9svsks

The next Phillip Island story is about just how busy it will be next month. During 26 - 28 February 2010, both World Superbike and Australian Superbike will take to the track over the course of three days. That will mean several races and many more practices. It is an incredible deal, so get your tickets very soon if you haven't already.

http://tinyurl.com/yevqp3t

And, of course, let's not forget Alex Gobert's piece on the Australian racing contingent in World Superbike this season. It is rather informative: http://tinyurl.com/yhafxl9

Additionally, meet your favorite racers at the Phillip Island World Superbike Championship races. Just check the schedule on the other side of this link: http://tinyurl.com/ygg3lh7

More Morning Moto News - World Supermoto DVD, EU Emissions & Demographics

The FIM Supermoto World Championship Review DVD is now available for purchase. This DVD covers the entire 2009 season and is full of commentary, great shots, and interviews with some of the sport's top riders. For more information, as well as how you can buy it for yourself or someone you care about, can be found after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/y8dkovg

The European Union is working to crack down on motorcycle emissions now. They want to put strict requirements on how much CO2 our two-wheeled machines can emit. It's not something which should surprise anyone, and the manufacturers have been waiting for something like this to come down. The real questions, though, are what standards will be set, and how much will it cost to meet those goals.

http://tinyurl.com/yajrb3a

The demographic of the motorcycle buyer is changing - and, if you were unaware of this, you have been living in a cave. This article, though, does explain that a younger and much more female audience is looking at bikes these days. We did know that, but you would do yourself no harm by taking the link and learning a little more.

http://tinyurl.com/ycoo2xz

More Morning Moto News - FB Corse, VFR800RR Bioblade & MCN Motorcycle Show

FB Corse has officially announced that John Hopkins will no longer be their rider for the select rounds of the MotoGP series in 2010. Instead, they have selected another high-profile rider whose name we have yet to know. They insist that all is still on track for their first race, so they should be getting to testing very soon.

http://tinyurl.com/ybscz92

Could the replacement be Garry McCoy: http://tinyurl.com/ydy53fb

So, the VFR1200F was not as spectacular as we all expected it would be - Honda missed the mark a bit with that one. But, some Belgians have brought to us something Honda should have considered a rather long time ago. A 1999 VFR800 has been modified with Fireblade (CBR1000RR) suspension and a special engine adaptation which allows the bike to run on bio-fuel. Bio-fuel! And, it still turns out a respectable 134 HP and only weighs 212 kg (full of fuel). Honestly, if it is ever built and sold, I will buy one! Take a look at the VFR800RR Bioblade.

http://tinyurl.com/yazx7gt

At the upcoming MCN London Motorcycle Show, iconic race bikes from seasons past will be on display. These include Valentino Rossi's 2009 YZR-M1, Barry Sheene's Yamaha OW53, Kevin Schwantz's 1993 RGV500 and more. For all of the information, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/y87f6cx

Friday Morning Moto News - Biaggi, Jakub Smrz & Gresini Honda

Apparently, last year Max Biaggi and his Aprilia team attempted to appeal and FIM decision as to his punishment for cutting a chicane during the first race of the season. Well, the FIM has now declined the protest and the ruling will stand...as if we did not expect that.

http://tinyurl.com/yek9g7e

In more World Superbike news, the B&G Racing group has released their livery for the 2010 season. On that team is Jakub Smrz and he will be riding a Ducati 1198. The B&G name comes from the owners of the team Borciani and Guandalini. See the article for more and the photo.

http://tinyurl.com/yarhseg

Gresini Honda has picked up another sponsor for the 2010 - 2011 MotoGP Championship. Printer company Prink has signed on to be a sponsor of their effort and will provide all printing services for the entire Gresini team - all the way up to their HQ office. This is very good news - more sponsorship.

http://tinyurl.com/y9hjez3

Evening Moto News - Suzuki Announces Contingency Program

The Suzuki contingency program is valued at US$2.2 Million and will go to riders of Suzuki's 2008 and newer RM85, RM-Z250, and RM-Z450 motorcycles purchased new at a dealership. The details of this program are available after the link. It looks like Suzuki is still doing OK even in this very sad economy - that is VERY good news! Go Suzuki!

http://tinyurl.com/ycfhw3h

More Afternoon Moto News - AMA Supercross, Glynn Kerr & Hyperleggera

Over in the AMA Supercross paddock, Monster Energy Kawasaki has decided to replace the injured Chad Reed with Nick Wey. Hopefully, he will be able to keep the podiums coming and give Reed a chance to get well and get back to work.

http://tinyurl.com/yb8gcju

From the online magazine world we bring you an interview with motorcycle designer Glynn Kerr. He has designed some iconic motorcycles and has a running column at MCN (US), so you are probably familiar to you by now. What does he think the secrets to design are? Well, he does talk about the direction of bike styling nowadays...

http://tinyurl.com/y8kbbex

sak_art design is back at it again. This time their design is known as the Ducati Hyperleggera (they love that 'Hyper' prefix, don't they!) and it is a twin based on the Ducati Monster 1100, but with an engine from either the Monster 696 or Hypermotard 796. It will be very light and it is designed to look fast just sitting there. Take a look and see if you want one...I bet you will!

http://tinyurl.com/y9sloht

Thursday Afternoon Moto News - CB750 For Sale & Spain By Bullet

First of all is this eBay find of a 1975 Honda CB750. It is partially restored and ready to be finished into either a show bike or a mile-munching classic. The next one is a 1970 CB750 which only has 5,000 miles on the clock. It has been stored most of its life, but has received some recent work. Check them out and buy one if you can!

http://tinyurl.com/ye9bkvb

We have a great story about a man and his Royal Enfield Bullet who takes it all around the northern coast of Spain. It turns out that this mount, with a 50+ year-old design, is probably one of the best backroad cruising machines you can purchase. No, it is not perfect, but the feel of riding one through historic lands is just fantastic.

http://tinyurl.com/yexuwz2

Even More Morning Moto News - Honda UK Bans VFR Riders, Rickman-Enfield Interceptor & Mustang Motorcycle

Honda UK has come down hard on anyone trying to get current VFR owners - those who have Honda VFR motorcycles which were made before 2010 - to test the new VFR1200F and comparing the two. No one knows why they have done this, except that maybe the new VFR is not as good as the older models??? Anyway, MCN (UK) was going to do a full test with the new model with riders of the old models and Honda UK stopped it - so, MCN sent their VFR1200F back to Honda! Good job MCN!

http://tinyurl.com/ygrzyu4

And, now some short posts which lead to long links.

First up is a great example of a 1971 Rickman-Enfield Interceptor. They only made around 127 of these, so you will not find many on the market, but you can look here and learn of a great motorcycle from the past.

http://tinyurl.com/yhxl7h2

Now we have heard that the old-school (1947 - 1965) Mustang is coming back. Thanks to California Scooter Company, we have a new version which is a four-stroke, instead of the old two-stroke, and is designed with Lilliputians in mind. It is something even I remember seeing in grade school when I was working at a motorcycle shop in Texas.

http://tinyurl.com/ykmvzkh

And, More Morning Moto News - Yamaha & ASBK & Social Media in Canada

Apparently, Yamaha will also be leaving the Australian Superbike Championship to pursue a title in the 2010 Australian Formula Xtreme Championship. They will be taking some of their riders with them, but not all. This leaves on Suzuki as a full factory effort in the series, with others being 'supported by' some manufacturers. It is getting very thin there, but I bet the racing is much more interesting now that it is mostly a privateer effort. Still, the lack of money will not be good for ASBK.

http://tinyurl.com/yk8yjlr

Yes, this is a post about Twitter, Facebook and the rest of the 'social media' world. But, this is specifically geared towards the motorcycle industry and everyone involved. In fact, this article will even help you figure out the best way for you to exploit the social media world. By exploit, I mean use to your heart's content to keep yourself up to date on the latest happenings in the industry and beyond, in many cases. You will likely find enough to create your own account, if you do not already have one.

http://tinyurl.com/ye5vgjb

More Morning Moto News - BMW @ MCN Show & Mark Gardiner

BMW is quite pleased to be announcing that they will have their concept and new motorcycle models at the MCN London Motorcycle Show, which is coming up 4 - 7 February 2010. They have put out a press release with a list of bikes they will bring, and what else they will have going on at the show. If you are attending, you will want to read this link...

http://tinyurl.com/ycdumc7

Mark Gardiner has given us yet another inside look at racing. In the RoadRacer X column, 'AGV Backmarker', he covers the strange goings-on with the Triumph World Supersport teams. He delves into the situation with Jason DiSalvo and Gary McCoy. It was an interesting soap opera which left McCoy without a seat, and DiSalvo taking his place - both were completely ignorant of the machinations going on at the time. It is well worth a read - especially if you are interested in the politics of motorcycle road racing.

http://tinyurl.com/yhka7hp

Thursday Morning Moto News - Erik Buell & WSBK Valencia Testing

An exclusive interview with Buell man Erik comes to us via MotorcycleUSA, and it is rather long. If there are any burning questions you have about Buell's demise or the reasoning behind the whole thing, you might find an answer or two here. Otherwise, Buell is as much in the dark as the rest of us - only H-D knows some of the answers, and they won't talk about it until people start retiring.

http://tinyurl.com/yz3bmfr

At the second testing session for which the Aprilia World Superbike team has traveled to Valencia, a heavy downpour has caused them to stop their testing. They have nearly lost a full day's worth of information due to the unexpected storm. It looks like they will only have the Phillip Island test to finalize settings for Camier and Biaggi.

http://tinyurl.com/ylqtnbz

It wasn't only Aprilia's team having a hard time, we also see that the BMW WSBK team was 'washed out' of practice due to the heavy rain.

http://tinyurl.com/yz3jphe

Stig Pettersson Has Moved in With Öhlins USA

Stig Pettersson has decided to work much more closely with the Öhlins USA office in the mountains of North Carolina. Pettersson is rather well-regarded and has worked for many American road race champions. He has worked with Fast by Ferracci, Muzzys, Erion Racing, Ducati Austin, Vance & Hines, Yoshimura Suzuki, M4 Suzuki and Michael Jordan Motorsports. Talk about an amazing resume!

http://tinyurl.com/ybcupwz

Wednesday Evening Moto News - Travis Pastrana + AGV, AMA Vintage Days & Trials Schedule

Travis Pastrana is just the latest addition to the AGV helmet sponsorship program. They already have the two best racers in motorcycle racing history - Valentino Rossi and Giacomo Agostini - and now they have another very successful rider in Pastrana. Now that Dainese owns AGV, it will probably only get better...

http://tinyurl.com/yck729e

The AMA is looking for some good vintage project bikes as a part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days this 9 - 11 July 2010. It doesn't matter if you are complete or not, and the destination can be any one you for which you are looking. Just get in contact with the AMA as soon as you can.

http://tinyurl.com/yeq5uba

The AMA released, a few days ago, the schedule for the AMA Racing/NATC Observed Trials National Championship Series, 2010 edition. For the information you seek, take the link. I can tell you that the season starts on 1 - 2 May 2010 in Oklahoma.

http://tinyurl.com/y9frh8k

More Afternoon Moto News - Ducati Multistrada UK, Motorcycle Cannonball & AMA Motocross

This is a bit old news, but it is worth mentioning again. The Ducati Multistrada 1200 will be making the rounds of U.K. Ducati dealers this month until March. They have also announced that they will also bring along a Multistrada 1200S Touring model to show. That's great news if you are thinking seriously of the up-rated model.

http://tinyurl.com/ylfknsl

Out of Hot Springs, Arkansas, a press release lets us know that the race will be stopping there for two nights and one day during the cross-country trip on pre-1916 model motorcycles. This is the first of its kind in in US in modern times, so it will be very interesting to follow the progress - who makes it and who breaks down, as well as how well it all works out for everyone. The event will be in Hot Springs during 16 - 18 September 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/yebko6l

AMA Motocross is scheduled to have a meeting in San Francisco this coming weekend. Representatives from everyone involved in the sport should be there to work out what the 2010 series will look like. It is being held in conjunction with the AMA Supercross event on 30 January 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/yewf8yq

More Afternoon Moto News - MSR Releases New Line-up & Victory Vegas Limited Edition

At the recent AMA Supercross event in Anaheim, California, MSR used the race to show off a line of motorcycle apparel which they will sell in 2011. Riders Kevin Windham and Nick Wey were sporting the gear at the event, but only some of the items which will be available. The MSR company is well-known for producing excellent off-road riding gear and it seems like they will only be upping their reputation when this new equipment starts being sold to the public.

http://tinyurl.com/yc7jzw8

Victory has released details on the 2010 Vegas Limited Edition which was debuted at the New York Cycle World International Motorcycle Show. It is the quickest bike that Victory has ever made with the 106/6 engine fitted with Stage 2 cams; that brings it to 97 hp and 113 ft-lb of torque. Only 100 of the US$15,999 motorcycle will be made in Fire Ball Red, Competition Yellow, Pearl White or Turbo Silver.

http://tinyurl.com/ylbqedb

Afternoon Moto News - Yamaha YZ450F & Honda CRF250R

We have all heard the various reports on the new for 2010 Yamaha YZ450F. Well, we finally have a test on the machine - outside of just watching James Stewart - and it is presented here by Cycle World. Of course, the changes made to the engine and chassis do make a difference, and the bike is much stronger on the start. So, how does it handle? Well, take the link and learn for yourself.

http://tinyurl.com/yf569q3

And, the 2010 Honda CRF250R is the first 250c.c. motocrosser to have fuel injection. The bike itself is almost 100% new - from the ground up, minus the tires, wheels and some buts and bolts. The fuel injection has not even added to the weight - it weighs the same as the 2009 model. How does all of this work together? Again, it is best that you read it from the source.

http://tinyurl.com/ybtam7h

Morning Moto News - Metzeler Sportec M5 & Husqvarna TE250

Metzeler has just released a rather interesting updated tire - it is the Sportec M5 Interact and it will gauge your lean angles for you. That's right, it has a series of numbers displayed on the carcass which will tell you just how far over you are actually leaning when riding hard - or lightly. Either way, you have a 5 point scale and an elephant which warns you when you are about to lose the grip entirely. Check it out and you may soon be able to brag about your 5-mark.

http://tinyurl.com/yc5l2tr

Husqvarna has released their TE250 Enduro. It is a road legal off-road machine which is based on the TC250, but the TE has electric start and EFI. It is also an easy bike to ride and fling from corner to corner - mass centralization and light weight help make this easy. If you ever get to ride one, you will be seriously smitten.

http://tinyurl.com/ylrzpu7

And, More Morning Moto News - Paolo Flammini & CPSIA Changes

At the Infront Motor Sports annual pre-season World Superbike press meeting, CEO Paolo Flammini pointed out some key points of this year's series. He even tried to predict the outcome of the series slight based on the exit of Ben Spies. Flammini even covered the new schedule and the change to the British round of the series - from Donington to Silverstone. It was a good event and it excited us for the year to come in racing.

http://tinyurl.com/yb76ymh

The news keeps getting bigger and it is apparently not attracting enough attention, so they keep pushing it up higher and higher - and we should be very glad for this! This is the movement to make a change to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) to exempt youth motorcycle and ATVs from that new law. The CPSC, as we all know, has delayed action, but Congress needs to get something done quick before we end up with no options for our children who want to ride. If you have not done it yet, contact your Congressional representative now and ask them to help.

http://tinyurl.com/yeapnl3

More Morning Moto News - UAE Sportbikes, Gino Rea & Ducati 848 Challenge

Yep, over in the UAE, they do have a motorcycle racing championship much like many other nations. You have seen it mentioned here before, and the last coverage we had was just after the UAE National Race Day at the Dubai Autodrome. Well, the second race of the season is upon us, and many competitors there are getting serious about the title. For more information, take the link and scroll down to the 'UAE Sportbikes Championship'. There are some very fast riders there now...

http://tinyurl.com/ydc6jjr

Gino Rea is quite ready for the World Supersport Championship to begin. He will be riding for the Intermoto Honda team in the series, and Honda is a big part of his past, present and future now. He is already European Superstock 600 Champion, and now he wants to take the World Championship. We wish him luck!

http://tinyurl.com/yeyvxlt

R&G Racing has signed on to be a sponsor of the Ducati U.K. 848 Challenge for 2010. They will offer a 50% savings on crash protection for participants of the series. If you need more details, just check past posts and/or take the link below.

http://tinyurl.com/ye2fztz

More Morning Moto News - RSV-4 Recall, WSBK and Leon Camier

The Aprilia RSV-4 Factory is being recalled on a global basis - we already heard about the Australian and the US recall, now we get one from Great Britain. It appears that the total number of machines which this recall concerns is right around 300 bikes. Only 30 are being pulled from the U.K., and the rest are elsewhere in the world. It all goes back to that conrod failure at the RSV-4R intro. Aprilia is usually rock-solid for reliability, so this is an odd start of a new model for them...

http://tinyurl.com/ye39qrh

Over in the World Superbike paddock, there are some teams which had planned on taking another practice at Valencia after the Portimao official test. Well, the weather seems to be working against them. So far, only two riders - Haga and Fabrizio - have even ventured onto the track.

http://tinyurl.com/ydcps8a

Leon Camier is rather sure that he has a good handle on his Aprilia WSBK machine, even though he ended the Portimao test in 12th position. He says that it does not look good on paper, but that his team is making good progress. He also stated that his low lap times could be attributed to the fact that he was not after fast laps, not yet.

http://tinyurl.com/ybxfa5n

Wednesday Morning Moto News - Claudio Castiglioni, MotoGP, Moto2 & 125GP

MV Agusta's president, Claudio Castiglioni, is backing a plan to raise the overall speed limit in Italy from its current setting at 130 km/h (81 mph) up to 150 km/h (93 mph). The Italian transport agency is trialing the new speed limit in some areas with an eye to making the change national. Castiglioni has stated that modern motorcycles are perfectly able to travel safely at those speeds. Maybe he will have some influence...

http://tinyurl.com/yb9bm92

The FIM has released the entry list for the 2010 125c.c. World Championship. Bradley Smith is the favorite for the title, as we all may well know. But, he has some competition from Aspar rider Nicolas Terol. For the full list and a short article on the series, please take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/ybksf3j

Moto2 has also been presented to us by the FIM. At present, there should be 39 riders lining up for the inaugural season. Many of the newcomers - and former 250c.c. riders - have already been mentioned as this class is getting an extraordinary focus from the media. It is a new series, and no one is sure who will be the favorite, so hold on tight as the season starts very soon!

http://tinyurl.com/ydootoe

We also get the official list of MotoGP entrants - 17 riders for 2010, at least full-time. There will be a few other teams which will only contest some rounds this year, but the rider group competing for the championship is only 17 bikes total. Have a look...as if you don't already know.

http://tinyurl.com/yke3zjm

Tuesday Night Moto News - Yoshimura Suzuki

Yoshimura Suzuki is moving out of the AMA paddock - well, let's say they are expanding. Having been so successful in the AMA Pro Racing over the last several years (domination of the Superbike class for over a decade), they have decided to embark on some World Sueprbike rounds - and an endurance race - with a few different riders. They will participate in Assen, the Netherlands, with Yukio Kagayama; the second at Imola with Daisaku Sakai; and, finally, the Suzuka 8 Hours with Kagayama and Sakai e Nobuatsu Aoki.

http://tinyurl.com/y8kfdeq

Tuesday Evening Moto News - Norton 880 Monoshock Cafe Racer

This is a rather short one, but very interesting. Paul Zuniga decided to build a Norton similar to the one Kenny Dreer originally designed as the Norton rebirth. His Norton has a single-shock rear end and inverted Kawasaki forks. It will have an 880c.c. over-bored Norton twin in it as soon as he is finished. But, now it looks just fine as it is. It looks very good and it starts my mind to wandering...

http://tinyurl.com/ya7qtuq

Even More Afternoon Moto News - DMG/AMA Pro Racing

Where will AMA Pro Racing be tomorrow? Has the Daytona Motorsports Group killed American Superbike racing for all of us? Well, some would certainly agree that DMG has screwed things up pretty good, but other would argue that we have yet to give it enough time. Still, no Honda, no Ducati, no Yamaha, no Kawasaki will receive factory support in 2010, so what are we left with? Not much but private and some pseudo-factory teams. It should make for some interesting results, but at what cost? Will anyone even watch the sport in 2010? And, I suppose the most important question is will it ever improve, or can it be saved? Maybe the racers will find a way to save the sport we all know and love, but they have their work cut out for them...

http://tinyurl.com/y8sgbna

And, More Afternoon Moto News - Racing Insider, Hyperbike Comparo & Roger DeCoster

Yep, the fourth edition of Alex Gobert's "Racing Insider" is no up and available for reading. As usual, he covers World Superbike, Australian Superbike, MotoGP, British Superbike, AMA Supercross and Australian Motocross. So, get some inside information about each series and you just might learn something.

http://tinyurl.com/yd424nz

Well, it is sort of a Hyperbike comparison; he only puts the BMW K1300S up against the Suzuki Hayabusa, leaving out such bikes as the Kawasaki ZX-14R, but he has a reason for it - Kawasaki did not have one ready for him to ride. For some pleasurable reading and to see how the two stack up against each other (they have admittedly different purposes), take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yeaf5h3

Speaking of AMA Supercross, we have an interview with Suzuki team manager Roger DeCoster which is mainly focused on the young star Ryan Dungey. Apparently, DeCoster took a real gamble when hiring the Minnesota native. To hear how he came to the decision, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yeat9u4

More Afternoon Moto News - Pretty Buell, Harley 48 & Aspire

A builder and designer in the U.K. has actually managed to turn the Buell 1125R into something which has a far superior aesthetic value than the stock model. The bike is called the Magpul Ronin, and it just may be a model for future products. As it is now, it is merely a prototype, but the Buell owners will likely push them to produce some of the cool bits on this machine for the public to buy. If Magpul does not, they will be losing some serious money.

http://tinyurl.com/ykvge96

And, it is from the same source that we get the first real look at the new Harley-Davidson 48. It is based on a Sportster 1200 (the second most common H-D) and it has fatter tires and a single seat. Not sure what is supposed to be so special, but then I am not an obsessive H-D fan like some are...

http://tinyurl.com/ykljt9u

US review: http://tinyurl.com/y93gugm

And, here is some important news for U.K. residents; the Aspire charity group which does work for people with severe spinal injuries, allowing them to live normal lives. They will be having what they call a D-Day Ride Out, which will take place in France on 12 - 13 June 2010. Head on over to the website for more details.

http://www.aspire.org.uk/bikers/

More Afternoon Moto News - Dainese, Pro Italia & 2010 Versys

Dainese has had a release event for their 2010 line-up of clothing and AGV helmets. The US event was held at the Dainese D-Store in Costa Mesa, California. Though there is little after the link, at least you get an introduction to their new products.

http://tinyurl.com/yaw2rj6

Specific to the D-Air, which was also released: http://tinyurl.com/ybm8a2b

It is on the home page now, but I am not sure for how long. Pro Italia, down in Los Angeles, will be hosting a fund-raiser for Haiti relief. It is a bike wash, a Q&A with local motorcycle police officer John Morena, and a talk with Bill Oberman about customizing your motorcycle. The seminars happen this Sunday (31 January 2010) at 13:00 at their Los Angeles shop. The bike wash will actually be held for the next three weekends and will benefit the Maison Fortune Orphanage Foundation.

http://www.proitalia.com/

And, a nice report on the 2010 Kawasaki Versys comes to us courtesy of MCN (UK). It is simply an early report from the test taking place in Sardinia - yes, Sardinia. Have a read. It's short but very informative.

http://tinyurl.com/yl7xvzj

Tuesday Afternoon Moto News - Toseland, Pedrosa, Aoyama and Simoncelli

Again we hear from James Toseland; this time it is about Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo. Toseland has now stated that he sees Rossi as a 'genuine' guy and Lorenzo as 'cocky'. There is some evidence backing him up in this, but it really is a matter of perspective. What's your opinion? Well, you are free to state it here.

http://tinyurl.com/ykzjs83

Dani Pedrosa has admitted that he needs to make fewer mistakes if he wants to take the MotoGP title. He has run into many problems in his quest to take that Championship, and he has been the cause of some of his won problems - though, not all of them! No matter your perspective on this, you know that he is a talented rider who does have a real chance to become a Champion.

http://tinyurl.com/yke62k2

How about some words from Hiroshi Aoyama and Marc Simoncelli about the new Moto2 class. Both were 250c.c. World Champions, and both are sad to see the two-stroke era come to an end. But, they are also quite ready to see what the new Moto2 series will bring to us in 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/ylm659y

More Morning Moto News - Julian Simon, WSBK & Burgess

After a great deal of negotiating and work, it seems that the Aspar Moto2 team will be using a RSV chassis after all. Julian Simon has tested many Moto2 machines and he, and his team, like the RSV frame with the 600c.c. Honda engine. They were going to use an Aprilia frame, but Aprilia cancelled their Moto2 project and left the team hanging. Now they are back at it and happy with what they have.

http://tinyurl.com/yhhsmcx

And, there are more post-practice reports from the World Superbike test at Portimao in Portugal over the weekend. If you want to know more about the behind-the-scenes and get some info which may not have popped up in the simple timesheets posted, this is the time to do so. Their next test will be at Phillip Island where the 2010 season starts.

http://tinyurl.com/ygs4pqt

http://tinyurl.com/yzqrvj7

http://tinyurl.com/ye6qsou

Jeremy Burgess has nothing but good things to say about the Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike. He really believes that when all of the statistics are written and people look back on the M1, it will go down as one of the best race bikes on the planet. Well, with as many championships as Rossi has brought for the factory, I doubt anyone will disagree.

http://tinyurl.com/yg85bh7

Tuesday Morning Moto News - MV Agusta, Bimota & Aprilia

A new Italian firm has just announced a very special MV Agusta Brutale model - the Tamburini T1. It is full of exotic parts which can only be sourced from a company set up by Massimo Tamburini's son, Andrea Tamburini, called Tamburini Corse. It is in the old MV Corse stomping grounds of San Marino and makes parts and accessories exclusively for MV Agusta and Ducati motorcycles. You will notice that, in the photos, they have modified a pre-2010 model Brutale just to show what can be done. Have a look, I am sure you will be pleased.

http://tinyurl.com/yj3eq4u

Over at the RareSportBikes for Sale blog, there is a listing for a 2008 Bimota DB6R, a very special machine indeed. It is the top-end model of the DB6 range and comes with all of the lovely unobtanium parts and accessories that you could ever want. This bike belonged to the importer - former importer - and only has 1100 miles on the clock. Plus, it is full US-spec. It is worth a look!

h ttp://tinyurl.com/yg8qhdg

Another riding impression of a 2010 Aprilia RS125, but this one was tested in the US. The bike is well-sorted and built for track duty or just simple racing. It is light, handles well, and is designed to get you around a track as fast as a 125c.c. two-stroke is capable of doing. Take a look and you may want one for yourself.

http://tinyurl.com/yg3fpzj

Big Moto News - AMA CEO Ron Dingman Interview!

Yep, Roadracingworld.com managed to get the interview of the year/decade in AMA Pro Racing circles, AMA CEO Ron Dingman. Why is this interview with the boat-rocking new AMA leader? Well, he finally explains the deal which let Daytona Motorsports Group take over their professional racing series. The short answer which everyone has been waiting for is as follows:

"...US$10,000,000...plus membership fees for AMA Pro Racing credential holders of about US$180,000 a year." Oddly, though, DMG is keeping lifetime membership fees for itself.

Check this out. It is only Part 1, so I will post Part II here when it is available.

http://tinyurl.com/yht9kd8

Part 2: http://tinyurl.com/yct2x7e

Part 3: http://tinyurl.com/yackysp

More Afternoon Moto News - Peyton Sassaman, A4DE & FZ8

Peyton Sassaman will be taking his Harley-Davidson sponsored Yamaha YZF-R6 to the WERA National Challenge Series. He will also take on select rounds of the AMA Pro SuperSport and the ASRA/CCS series. He is a former dirt-track AMA Amateur National Champion and WERA Lightweight Superstock National Champion, so his resume puts him right where he should be, but what's next? Wait and see...

http://tinyurl.com/y8nacvc

OK, for those that do not know, A4DE is the Australian 4-Day Enduro and it takes place 8 - 11 April 2010 in Portland, NSW. Yamaha Australia has gained the prime sponsorship for the event and has naming rights. Everything seems to be coming together for the race now, and it is looking like it will be even better this year. So, pay attention and plan to attend - if you will be close enough to do so!

http://tinyurl.com/yazqhfa

Italian moto mag Motociclismo has gotten their hands on some photos of the upcoming FZ8, otherwise referred to as the Fazer 8. We saw some early shots previously, but nothing like the collection here. Now, will it arrive on US shores? No one knows at present...

http://tinyurl.com/ylyz3h4

http://tinyurl.com/ykrt3vz

http://tinyurl.com/yznfw9v

Monday Afternoon Moto News - Laverda 750S, Lorenzo & a Show

Over at the Rare SportBikes for Sale blog, we get a look at an astounding example of a 1999 Laverda 750S Formula motorcycle. It is for sale in North Carolina, and there are very few examples in the US of this fine Italian stallion. You won't find many of these on the road...and the price is excellent.

http://tinyurl.com/y95fdca

Jorge Lorenzo has been working with Intermom Oxfam to create an online commercial to get people to donate to the Haiti earthquake relief. Given the immense suffering in that nation now, this is an incredible gesture. Lorenzo will also donate his gold boots, which he wore in 2008, to be auctioned for more money directed at relief efforts. Anything that helps, helps!

http://tinyurl.com/yal4ubk

The 11th Annual Riding Into History event will take place in St. Augustine, Florida, on 15 May 2010. A group put together for the event and a local BMW Owners Association - Northeast Florida - will be organizing the event and Clement Salvadori will be the Grand Marshal. Craig Vetter and artist Don Bradley will also be in attendance. There should be some 300 to 400+ motorcycles on display.

http://tinyurl.com/yb3wrvo

More Monday Morning News - More WSBK & ASBK

Althea Ducati is working very hard to help Shane Byrne get up to speed on his World Superbike machine. The team has a new bike, but Byrne says they are working incredibly well together. It should be noted that he did get the third fastest time at the Portimao test - even though this is his team's first time to work with Ducati.

http://tinyurl.com/ye3sa9w

Dunlop has secured itself as the control tire supplier to the Australian Superbike Championship again, this time for three more years. Also, they have announced the contingency plans. So, if you are curious or are in the series and want to know what to expect, please take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yb8bmxc

Monday Morning Moto News - WSBK, Toseland, Crutchlow, Vermeulen & Guintoli

Finally, we have some more results from the World Superbike Championship practice at Portimao. There are plenty of reports, so I will post any interesting stories that come my way. Just keep your eyes on the list below.

http://tinyurl.com/yb3lu5q

http://tinyurl.com/ye447kf

http://tinyurl.com/y8z68z6

http://tinyurl.com/yetxpn5

http://tinyurl.com/yd3f26p

Apparently, when Jorge Lorenzo is on his bike and in his leathers, James Toseland is infinitely annoyed by him but, when Lorenzo is off the track and has his helmet off, he is a very nice guy. At least that is how Toseland sees things. He also turned down a reality TV show - good for him! Some candid conversation after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/y88duod

Toseland's teammate, Cal Crutchlow, had a great WSBK practice over the weekend. The World Supersport Champion made his way around the track and beat out Toseland on time - even while trying to find a decent setup for his R1.

http://tinyurl.com/ye4cam2

Chris Vermeulen did not have a great testing session, but he and his team learned a great deal. They are getting themselves ready for the next test at Phillip Island - right before the season opens there - to find further improvements.

http://tinyurl.com/yd4oueb

Sylvain Guintoli is counting the days until the start of the 2010 World Superbike Championship. He is ready to tackle this series and see what he can do to achieve the championship for his team - to put it simply, he is confident and wants to get racing!

http://tinyurl.com/ycpcll5

More Afternoon Moto News - AHRMA, Honda Australia & Scams, Cheats and Hoaxes

And attorney in Steamboat Springs, Rob Stricker, has won the AHRMA's 2009 Vintage Trials Series in the Rigid Heavyweight Intermediate Class. His ride in the event was a 1952 BSA Goldstar. Stricker is a long-time rider with a long history in trials riding. Check out the article...

http://tinyurl.com/yftf7dh

Honda Australia has announced that they are restructuring and will cease operations of the Honda Riders Club of Australia effective immediately. As with the American version, which is still barely active, its activities spanned the entire range of sports associated with Honda motorsports products. All of that work will now be done in-house at the Australian HQ.

http://tinyurl.com/ylxz7zw

MCN (UK) has produced a very cool read about scams, cheats and hoaxes in the motorcycle world. Some are quite amazingly interesting and others are just plain laugh out loud funny. The one about the FP1, though, I would like to research more just to find the truth - not to hurt anyone, but to finally know what actually did happen. OK, so take the link and read them, you will enjoy it!

http://tinyurl.com/ye2qu7h

Sunday Afternoon Moto News - Jordan Szoke & Anaheim Supercross

Canadian Superbike racer Jordan Szoke has been chosen as Motorcycle Racer of the Year in the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards. It's no wonder as he won his fourth straight championship last year, and he is on his way to getting another in 2010. Go and check it out...

http://tinyurl.com/yd6rfv4

http://tinyurl.com/ycxwcv9

And, we have results from the AMA Supercross round at Anaheim this weekend. It is Anaheim 2 as there are two events at the same location. Suzuki-mounted Ryan Dungey took victory in this event and is slowly cementing his name on the Supercross Championship as one of the best. Yamaha man James Stewart finished in third, with Josh Hill taking the second position.

http://tinyurl.com/yeyodrh

http://tinyurl.com/yjqovp3

And, More Morning Moto News - Alitalia and MotoGP

The Aprilia World Superbike team has secured sponsorship from Italian airline Alitalia. It was an inside deal, though, as the CEO or Piaggio (who owns Aprilia) is also CEO of Alitalia. However, it is good to see more sponsorship in the motorcycle racing world - there is not near enough money there these days.

http://tinyurl.com/y8foxc5

And, we have a nice piece on Valentino Rossi and his forays into the four-wheeled racing world. Full disclosure - I wrote it! So, please take the link below and go and have a quick read. I enjoyed writing it and I truly believe that Rossi will be in WRC and not F1, unless he encounters something - like tons of money - and changes his mind.

http://tinyurl.com/y9xvklf

More Morning Moto News - NZ Superbikes & WSS

At the second round of the New Zealand Superbike Championship, held this weekend in Teretonga, has spurred some contraversy. Apparently, both Andrew Stroud and Robbie Bugden are claiming victory after the race officials made a huge mistake with the last lap flag, You just have to read the article, it is worth your time. And, apparently, Race 2 was much less confusing.

http://tinyurl.com/yessaoo

At the World Supersport tests in Portimao, Portugal, Eugene Laverty managed to take the fast lap at the end of the session. Second fastest on the day was the Kawasaki of Joan Lascorz, with Honda-mounted Michele Piro coming in third. Sounds like they accomplished a great deal over the weekend...

http://tinyurl.com/ycl9k4u

Sunday Morning Moto News - Gowland and Andrews

Over in the U.K., an old hand is returning to race in the show - Graeme Gowland. He will be running in the British Supersport Championship with Parkalgar Honda on the same CBR600RR which took Eugene Laverty to second in the World Supersport Championship. He was hoping to move up elsewhere, but it all comes down to money...

http://tinyurl.com/ya53qkw

MSS Colchster Kawasaki rider Simon Andrews is in France doing high-altitude training. He will be competing in the British Superbike Championship in 2010, and he wants to be in his best shape. It makes sense to train in the thin air as it will make you even better at near sea-level altitudes. He has also been working on recovering from injury, but all seems to be going well so far.

http://tinyurl.com/yc4vgej

Saturday Afternoon Moto News - Brittown DVD & WSBK Practice Day 2

A DVD chronicling part of the life of vintage Norton racer and mechanic Jeff "Meatball" Tulinius from his homebase, his Hell On Wheels shop in Anaheim, California. The film is called "Brittown" and it covers his time racing a BSA and just being himself. There is a video preview after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yfny4e4

We now have some more reports from the World Superbike Championship testing taking place at Portimao in Portugal. Jonathan Rea was the fastest on this day, but it was a wet session - good for testing, though. Leon Haslam, yesterday's leader, was close to Rea in second. There is plenty more for the teams to do, so expect yet another leader tomorrow.

http://tinyurl.com/ylzy6xf

http://tinyurl.com/yghj74u

http://tinyurl.com/yzt5e6l - From Haga and Fabrizio

More Saturday Moto News - Jason DiSalvo, Ryan Capes & SpongeBob

Jason DiSalvo has no problem with Gary McCoy, even after taking his slot on the ParkinGO BE1 Triumph World Supersport team. McCoy and the BE1 team had some problems and their negotiations broke down, so they simply went to find a replacement. They picked up DiSalvo from the US AMA Pro Racing series. I get the impression that DiSalvo is glad to be back in a real racing series.

http://tinyurl.com/yjqe4ak

Ryan Capes has broken the dirt-to-dirt long distance motorcycle jump record - and he did it with very little fanfare. It is an official Guinness World Record and he set it on a Pro Circuit-tuned Monster Energy Kawasaki/Service Honda KX500 at Jeremy McGrath's ranch in California. There is even a video of it after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yc6t5ub

And, I had to post this one. Are there any fans of SpongeBob SquarePants? If so, you can now get a motorcycle helmet to show your support of the character. Ateliers Ruby has released the 10th anniversary tribute and will only make 200 of the - only to be sold in the US and Europe - and they cost - wait for it - US$1200!

http://tinyurl.com/ydwk86e

Saturday Morning Moto News - Bautista, ASBK & California Superbike School in Dubai

Alvaro Bautista will be wearing the products of the REV'IT concern when he takes to the MotoGP circuits. He will be sponsored by them and will wear their protective racing leathers when on the track. It should be a productive relationship.

http://tinyurl.com/y969x5x

Down in Australia, the final round of the Australian Superbike Championship will be delayed a week. The new dates are 12 - 14 November 2010 at Symmons Plains. Make sure to make a note!

http://tinyurl.com/yzhv8ns

And, a nice story about the California Superbike School (the European franchise) taking to the track at the Dubai Autodrome. In case you were unaware, Keith Code's school has expanded beyond the state of California and he is teaching students the world over how to corner on a motorcycle.

http://tinyurl.com/ylchbww

Saturday Morning Moto News - WSBK, WSS, Silverstone and More

Well, there is a great deal of activity in the World Superbike world about now. Most of it is due to the testing being held in Portimao, Portugal, this weekend, but there is other news as well.

First, the provisional 2010 World Superbike Championship entry list is now available. You will know most of what is here, but it is all in one place, which makes it easier. Have a close look, though, as some details we thought were settled have changed again...

http://tinyurl.com/y8fu3v6

From the first official day of testing at Portimao for the WSBK teams we have some reports. Leon Haslam is on top of things so far...

http://tinyurl.com/yc9xw62

http://tinyurl.com/yawd26u

http://tinyurl.com/ycgf99x +WSS

James Toseland has something to prove in WSBK: http://tinyurl.com/ydqu3ps

Early Day 2 results have Jonathan Rea at the top of the time sheets. The Brits are taking this practice by storm: http://tinyurl.com/yk6cafu

Apparently, Silverstone has just announced that they will be hosting a round of the World Superbike Championship this year. It will be over the 30 July - 1 August 2010 weekend. New news?

http://tinyurl.com/yas8xjs

Friday Night Moto News - Security & Chris Holder

Out of Florida comes this press release from IturanUSA, a producer of GPS locating devices for various vehicles. They have now, officially, launched their Rideit system for motorcycles. It is made of the toughest materials and is guaranteed to never fail, basically. They even monitor their own service, which is unique. Check it out - it may help you get your bike back someday!

http://tinyurl.com/ye43pb4

Australian Chris Holder has become the 2010 Australian Solo Speedway. It was a tight race, not to mention that Holder entered the final event four points behind first place rider Troy Batchelor. Holder will go on to compete in the 2010 FIM Speedway Grand Prix season. He is a rather highly ranked competitor, so Jason Crump had better watch out...

http://tinyurl.com/ycfj5wa

Friday Afternoon Moto News - H-D Loss, Erik Buell & Derbi

Harley-Davidson posted their first quarterly loss in 16 years at the end of 2009. It is a sad representation of what this economy is doing to the industry. To help fight this, they have created another entry-market motorcycle, the Forty-Eight, which they hope will bring in some new customers. It is unlikely to make an impact like they want, but they will certainly sell some of them. Good Luck H-D!

http://tinyurl.com/yby5d2t

Erik Buell Racing has signed on with think3’s ThinkDesign (CAD) and ThinkPLM (PDM) to help optimize their product development. This comes to us via a press release from the Erik Buell Racing company and think3. For more details, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yd9bd69

Derbi, with help from Sevcon, have created their own electric motorcycle, the GPR EV. They say that it is far beyond what is currently being produced by other electric motorcycle manufacturers due to its fully-integrated power system. No word on production or racing for this machine, just the short article and the photo.

http://tinyurl.com/yeg5ask

Even More Morning News - Andrew Stroud & Aussie Superstock

Andrew Stroud, riding on a Suzuki GSX-R1000, wants to win the New Zealand Superbike Championship and take the trophy which 2009 champion Robbie Bugden now has at his home. Given his results so far - his performance last weekend, specifically - he could be a real threat. This coming weekend is the second round, to be held at Teretonga, so we will see how far he can take his lead.

http://tinyurl.com/ylpdr34

International Entertainment Group (IEG), who are the Australian Superbike promoter, along with Motorcycling Australia, has changed the format for the Superstock series. Superstock A and B riders will compete within the Australian Superbike class, but their points will be decided separately. Superstock groups C and D will ride together in their own class and be scored together. This all came from listening to the competitors involved. How unlikely to hear a motorcycle race series listening to the participants...

http://tinyurl.com/yhrn9kt

And, More Morning News - Fiat Yamaha, Moto2 & Motohansa

Fiat Yamaha will be unveiling their livery at the first day of the Malaysian test on 4 February 2010. Basically, it's a big media day and photos of the bikes and riders - Rossi and Lorenzo - will be encouraged. If you are in the press, this is for you.

http://tinyurl.com/y8krw42

The most popular chassis in Moto2 may be the Sutter MMX - up to a third of competitors in the class may be using their product. Sutter MMX is based in Switzerland and made the frames for the Kawasaki MotoGP teams, plus they will be making all of the slipper clutches used in the series. They were lucky in being the first to get prices out and have product ready for testing, and that is why they seem to be in the front of everyone else at this point.

http://tinyurl.com/y9ec2wo

Turns out that the BMW S1000RR will be seen in the Australian Superstock 1000 series this season. The Motohansa team has joined up with Laser Exhaust to field Jeremy Crowe on the machine at select ASBK rounds throughout the year. Perhaps they will make it a full-time effort before season's end.

http://tinyurl.com/yztx4nj

More Morning Moto News - Sweepstakes, Leon Haslam & Capirex

Over at the U.K. newspaper, the Mirror, is having a sweepstakes where you could win a Leon Camier autographed Pirelli British Superbike Championship book. All you have to do is join some panel of theirs and you are automatically entered...easy as pie!

http://tinyurl.com/yf8x2fl

On the first day of the Portimao World Superbike test, Leon Haslam has topped the time sheets at the track. Of course, they are not all there looking for fast times, most are chasing setup demons and trying to figure out how to tune their race machines for the team riders. But, it does show that Haslam is putting in his effort to win the 2010 series title. Jonathan Rea was in second place on the day...

http://tinyurl.com/yj4s7cn

World Supersport times at the same test: http://tinyurl.com/ybqod4f

Loris Capirossi has been in the news a great deal these last few days. He must have had an interview day or two recently. Anyway, Capirossi is quite happy to know that the MotoGP engine limit will move to 1000c.c. soon. In fact, he said he would be the 'happiest person on earth' if the powers-that-be were to move the date of this rule change forward to 2011. Can't blame him...

http://tinyurl.com/yfu79jd

Friday Morning Moto News - Rea & Camier, New Build & Aprilia US Recall

Gino Rea, European 600cc Superstock Champion, and Leon Camier, British Superbike Champion, have taken off to Spain to do some testing - and to get away from the English winter. Both riders are getting some practice in and enjoying the warmer weather.

http://tinyurl.com/yhd6afx

Honestly, I do not know how to title this, but here is the story as I can understand it. Eighteen-year-old Ryan Mackey has built a replica/real/custom Harley-Davidson WLA and won a contest for it, or unrelated to it, and another motorcycle. He did win the AMCA Youth Program Giveaway Bike, which is an honor of some sort. Honestly, the quality of writing leaves something to be desired, but you can go and check it out for yourself.

http://tinyurl.com/ylgjb5l

The Aprilia RSV-4 (R or Factory), which we heard yesterday was recalled in Australia, is now also being recalled in the US. The article does not specify which version (another poorly written piece), but we can probably assume it was among the earlier generations, thus is likely the Factory model. Keep in mind that there have been NO reports of any failures in the field, none at all.

http://tinyurl.com/yhoyy4e

http://tinyurl.com/ykmotux

And more detail - a complete engine exchange: http://tinyurl.com/ybczceq

Night Moto News - Gabriel Uttley, 600 450cc, THOR & FIM Speedway GP

It's the story of Gabriel Uttley, from the U.K., and his dream of exceeding 400 mph in a motorcycle streamliner, and it is written by a now veteran of the Salt Flats, one Rocky Robinson. It's a good read about this team, and one to pay attention to this year. They could do it, but I think they will need a bit more practice - at least from what I have heard about racing those machines. Check it out, you'll likely like it.

http://tinyurl.com/ybdfz5v

This one is a bit odd, but it is working in the series. In the New Zealand Superbike Championship there is a class for 450c.c. machines of all cylinder configurations. It is called Formula Three. Marty Wood has set up a Yamaha YZF-R6 to run on only three cylinders, thus making it a 450c.c. and legal. He has been scoring rather well with this...check it out.

http://tinyurl.com/y8fgoty

Gear manufacturer THOR has announced their supported riders for the 2010 season. Take the link and have a look.

http://tinyurl.com/yexxa8t

Sky Sports has announced their schedule for the 2010 FIM Speedway Grand Prix TV air times. 29 March 2010 is the date, check the link!

http://tinyurl.com/yadqz9h

More Moto News - 214MPG Motorcycle, Coppa Acerbo & Biodiesel

Yep, you too can have a motorcycle which sips fuel at around 214 mpg (91 km/liter). Dutch designer/builder Allert Jacobs has built a streamlined machine which achieves that incredible fuel efficiency - though, he did miss his goal, so far, of 235 mpg (100 km/liter). He used a Honda Innova ANF125i, a 125c.c. motorcycle out of Asia, and turned it into a recumbent motorcycle, but made very few changes to the engine itself. Check it out!

http://tinyurl.com/yeartxd

Filippo Barbacane is at it again. This time it's a custom Moto Guzzi V11 and he has tarted it up a bit and renamed it Coppa Acerbo. That name comes from a race which was held in Pescara, Italy, from 1924 to 1961, which was then renamed (Circuito di Pescara) for Giacomo Acerbo, the creator of the race. He has done some amazing work on this machine, as he always does, and it is worth a look.

http://tinyurl.com/yktlyvn

The Metalback is a V-4 biodiesel-powered motorcycle which is made from recycled aluminum - and no paint. It is an environmental tour de force and is the brainchild of Jordan Meadows, a former auto designer. The bike is designed to run on just about any biodiesel you can find, and it is incredibly fuel-efficient. Have a look and you will see why these machines are getting so much press.

http://tinyurl.com/yeplsne

Even MORE Afternoon Moto News - NHRA, XDL & Haiti

The NHRA is changing things up at the zMAX Dragway in North Carolina - they are running four lanes now instead of two. It does sound odd, but it is true, at least for this event. Some like it, some despise it, but it will happen - most people were surprised by the NHRA approval for it in the first place. The event will be held 26 - 28 March 2010.

http://tinyurl.com/yk2mya6

During the 2010 Daytona Bike Week, the XDL Sportbike Freestyle Championship will be held at Daytona International Speedway during 26 - 28 February. This is the first time that the XDL will make the trip to Florida, believe it or not, and this event will certainly add something more to Bike Week - so much to do and so little time!

http://tinyurl.com/yzfnhrp

Help Haiti! Famed workout freak Jillian Michaels is auctioning off her Troy Lee customized 2007 Yamaha FZ1, with all proceeds going to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund. Michaels has friends in the nation and traveled there a while back in search of direction for her life, so Haiti is close to her heart. The auction price was up to US$16,000 the last time I checked, so she will be contributing a great deal to the cause. If you want to help, either bid on the bike or make your own donation - there are several charities helping out, find the one you like and give them some cash!

http://tinyurl.com/yhwhrq6

Even More Afternoon Moto News - Zero Motorcycles, Honda Design and a Concept Ducati

Zero Motorcycles will be displaying its Zero S all-electric motorcycle at the Go Green Expo in Los Angeles. It will be held at the LA Convention Center this weekend. If you want to test ride a Zero S, you can sign up on their website (on the linked page), but you had better hurry! The Go Green Expo will also have plenty of other interesting displays and even discussion panels with various celebrities on hand.

http://tinyurl.com/yb5t6km

We also get an inside look at the motorcycle design process at Honda. Specifically, designer Martin Manchester, who works for Honda R&D Americas, is interviewed here and the focus is his own work on the Honda Shadow Spirit 750 C2. It is not often that we get to see this deep within the company, and it will not be the last (I have something cooking right now for another publication).

http://tinyurl.com/yl6yzfx

They are calling it the Ducati Hypermono, well 'it' does not work well for this, it is more like 'them'. There are four variations on the theme, which was inspired by the beautiful street-legal Supermono Strada prepared by Alistair Wager. These machines were designed and built by sak_art design and may or may not be for sale at some point. Check them out...

http://tinyurl.com/y8l3v3r

More Afternoon Moto News - Benelli, Billy Joel and Kawasaki WSS

Benelli, now owned by Chinese company Qian Jiang, has opened their first store in Beijing, China. This puts them in a prime space to improve their sales. Beijing is full of newly affluent people who look at such exotic vehicles as a way to show off their new wealth. So, Benelli might find itself selling motorcycles better on the other side of the world than they do in Europe. A great move for them!

http://tinyurl.com/y8o5wuq

Deus Ex Machina has released information on the custom motorcycle they built for Billy Joel. It is based on the now discontinued Kawasaki W650. It looks awesome and is a take on an old-school bobber; he did not want to have a repli-chopper, he wanted something with style, and he got it!

http://tinyurl.com/y8shype

Joan Lascorz and Katsuaki Fujiwara, of the Kawasaki Provec Motocard.com team, were in Almeria testing their World Supersport machinery in preparation for the Portugal test happening this weekend. It does seem that they had a good test and it all went well, so they expect an even better test at Portimao.

http://tinyurl.com/yb4kun5

Thursday Afternoon Moto News - BMW R1200RT, Keith Code and the Mobility Conquest

The new 2010 BMW R1200RT has had some extra power on tap, and some minor upgrades including the new ESA2 remotely adjustable suspension system. MCN (UK) is in Spain at the press launch and they have been very impressed with the new engine character so far. And, they have at least 600 miles on it now. A full review will be available soon.

http://tinyurl.com/ycesbo4

Keith Code's California Superbike School is now running with BMW S1000RR machines, so they are selling their used Kawasaki ZX-6Rs. All 16 of them are up for sale right now, 15 of them at US$4500 with new tires, and one special ZX-6R, which was for Keith Code himself and has many upgrades, for US$7000. Check it out, a used bike can still be new to you!

http://tinyurl.com/yccfxtp

And, just a quick note that the Mobility Conquest, a BMW-based motorcycle which allows people stuck in a wheelchair to ride a bike, will be on display at Cycle World's International Motorcycle Show at the Cleveland I-X Center this 29 - 31 January 2010. It will be the first time to see one in the US!

http://tinyurl.com/yezzdo6

Late Morning Moto News - Gary McCoy, ASBK & Broc Parkes

Gary McCoy was shafted by his World Supersport team, Triumph ParkinGO BE1 Racing. So, he is hoping to gain a ride in the Moto2 series. He has some interest from a builder, but nothing has been decided yet. Given his ability to put a bike on track and fight for a win, McCoy deserves to get a seat with some team and soon!

http://tinyurl.com/yd9vunj

He was stunned at being dumped: http://tinyurl.com/yezsjex

The Australian Superbike Championship - Motorcycling Australia - has announced practice days at Phillip Island. They will be 28 - 29 January 2010. For the details, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/ybjzewv

Broc Parkes has made his debut on the Honda CBR1000RR with the Italian Echo-CRS Honda team. He will be competing in the 2010 World Superbike Championship, so his practice time on the new machine is critical. It turns out that he had a good test and all went well. This will be the first season in WSBK for the team, but not the rider...

http://tinyurl.com/yd4684q

More Morning Moto News - Inmotec MotoGP, Ultimate Racing & Neil Hodgson

The Inmotec squad has just finished 12 days of testing on the MotoGP race bike and is ready to enter the MotoGP Championship this season. It all sounds like good news, and they will be the first Spanish manufacturer to enter the World Championship. They will only participate in some rounds of the series, but they will be there - and that is saying something!

http://tinyurl.com/yekeo6f

Ultimate Racing, and their rider Peter Hickman, are moving up to the big show in 2010, the British Superbike Championship. Last season they came in second overall in the BSB Cup series, and they hope to use that experience to get them into the top 10 finishers in their new class. Wish them luck!

http://tinyurl.com/yeubbyq

http://tinyurl.com/yc2g3s3

It looks like Neil Hodgson will be getting support from Chase Templeton, a medical insurer based on the Isle of Man. They will support his effort in the 2010 British Superbike Championship. They should be very happy with their advertising scheme - everyone watches Hodgson!

http://tinyurl.com/ycmsbnt

Thursday Morning Moto News - WSBK, YZR500 & Aprilia Recall

World Superbike will be kicking off a three-day test at Portimao this weekend in preparation for the 2010 season. Shortly after that, 21 - 22 February, will see them at Phillip Island for another practice. That will just be one week before the opening round at the same circuit. Get a summary of this after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yg8l3hs

Shane Byrne will be there with his Althea Racing Ducati: http://tinyurl.com/yaz74xm

Alex Gobert's column on the test: http://tinyurl.com/yaop7bg

Down outside of Sydney, Australia, you can actually purchase a full-on 500c.c. GP bike replica! Mick Costain of Mico Products can make a perfect replica of a Yamaha YZR500 from any season between 1988 and 2002. It is an impressive build and will certainly turn heads anywhere you go. Even the price is not so outside the norm. There are even more replicas he produces and you should see them for yourself!

http://tinyurl.com/yflgcuv

After that horrendous debut of the Aprilia RSV-4R (the lower-spec model), where five machines suffered con-rod failures and blew up. Well, apparently, some of those improperly manufactured parts made their way into the first run of the RSV-4 Factory and they have issued a recall to save those machines - ONLY in Australia for now. Get in touch with your dealer, just in case...

http://tinyurl.com/ye4l8a4

Thursday Morning Moto News - Luca Scassa, Motus & TZ Tribute R1

We are hearing that Luca Scassa - an up and coming Italian racer who has contested both Italian championships and AMA Pro Racing seasons - has joined a team known as Team Supersonic. They have their hands on Noriyuki Haga's 2009 Ducati 1198 machines, and they are planning to join the World Superbike Championship in 2011, but they may start in 2010 at the first European round...we will soon see.

http://tinyurl.com/yjftcrn

How about another close - even closer - look at the new Motus Motorcycles MST 1650c.c. Sport Tourer? Well, Cycle World has provided us with one. They may be on to something very good with their new technology approach. I sure hope we get to ride that MST very soon!

http://tinyurl.com/yftgxna

And, this one just has to be posted. I read about this custom, one-off build to honor the old TZ dirt trackers (see Kenny Roberts, Sr.). It's all done by Gregg's Customs and they did an awesome job on it! It is light, powerful, great handling and well-built - and it has 160 HP on tap! This is an awesome machine!

http://tinyurl.com/yhpb44w

Wednesday Evening Moto News - Moto2 and Lehman sans H-D

The line-up for the 2010 FIM Moto2 Championship is starting to get into racing shape. The list is not 'official' yet, but there are 40 (they say, but I only count 25 teams on the list and I count at least 43 seats) teams on the list as of now. Of course, some of these teams may not make it to the 2010 show, but they might be able to get things together by 2011. A highly competitive series will only make the first Moto2 season more interesting.

http://tinyurl.com/y8b28ww

Harley-Davidson is ending their relationship with Lehman Trikes by the year 2011. H-D will be making their own trikes in their York, PA, plant (good news for employees there) by that year. Lehman will continue to produce H-D trikes through 2010, so there should be continuous production. It was a purely economic decision, no bad blood or problems. I hope H-D will get their tooling right on the first go; I wouldn't buy one of the early models. And, Lehman has many other agreements in place - especially cool is the Victory Vision Trike - so they should still be solid.

http://tinyurl.com/ye9857z

More and More Moto News - Yamaha Contingency and US Dealers

This post is all Yamaha. First off, there are more details on the Graves Yamaha contingency program now in place in the WERA Endurance series. It pays US$5000 to the winner of the Mediumweight Superbike Class, if you are on a Yamaha. The next Yamaha contingency program is the US$52,250 they have allocated for the top 3 finishers from the amateur to pro ranks in the AMA GNCC series - that consists of 10 classes paying contingency if you are riding a bike from the tuning fork company. Goos news for racers in need of extra cash - and who isn't!?!

http://tinyurl.com/yaptkkl

http://tinyurl.com/y8lclvw

Yamaha has decided that they want to increase their dealer network in the US by some 70%! They are after more sales, better service and improve inventory practices. They will be working with current dealers first - to expand the floorspace for Yamahas - then will look to adding dealerships where they are under-served.

http://tinyurl.com/yecvld2

More Afternoon Moto News - Triumph Colors, Dallas Chopper Show and the Oak Tree Tavern at VIR

Triumph is introducing some new paint schemes on their 2010 models. The newest color is the very cool Scorched Yellow, which will be available on the Street Triple. It's not the biggest news, but it is nice to know.

http://tinyurl.com/y8w3swm

Viper Motorcycles is now a major sponsor for the Rick Fairless Strokers Dallas Bike Show and Parts Expo in Texas and running in April of this year (no dates provided in the press release). It will be another repli-chopper type show with miles of chrome and very stretched out forms and bars, but you may find it interesting if yo are, in fact, into those sorts of motorcycles. Check out the release after the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yhsx9jk

The Oak Tree Tavern, at Virginia's Virginia International Raceway, will be holding its re-Grand Opening on 29 January 2010. The restaurant and bar has new management and a completely new menu. It will be open as a regular establishment and is family-friendly. If you get near VIR, you now have a historic place to eat your meals and drink your pleasure.

http://tinyurl.com/yhsqgmg

Wednesday Afternoon Moto News - Design, Ninja 650R & Chad Reed

The man responsible for the jaguar-themed motorcycle custom - you remember it, it's the one with a huge faux jaguar body as the frame - Barend Massow Hemmes, is at it again. His next project, which is part of the same concept, is a bull. A very red bull acts as the frame and the forks with a seat tacked on to the bull's ass. Take a look. At least he is thinking creatively!

http://tinyurl.com/ydm7mxt

Now, we also finally get our hands on a riding impression of the 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 650R. The bike is billed as an entry-level machine for beginning riders, but it is also a light and quick canyon bomber for experienced riders. There are many changes to this machine, and all of them work towards making it an even better motorcycle. For the full review and some great photos, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yexcbqu

We also hear that AMA Supercross star, and Monster Kawasaki's lead rider, Chad Reed has broken his hand. He will be out of the series for up to six weeks! The incident happened at the Phoenix round when James Stewart and him collided in the race. This is not good news for the sport as he is one of, if not the, best racers out there now.

http://tinyurl.com/ydr2f9r

And, More Morning Moto News - Dainese, Fulmer & NZ Superbike

Dainese products are no longer 'Made in Italy'. They are going to shut down their factory in Molvena, Italy, and move all mass-production to Tunisia, where they already have a factory. It is assumed that they are doing this to cut costs in light of the sour economy, and that makes sense. However, they will continue to employ some workers to continue to create motorcycle racing leathers for the riders they support in the large racing series of the world. Well, not even an Italian company will get you Italian made products these days...

http://tinyurl.com/ylz6jhc

Fulmer Helmets recently acquired motorcycle apparel manufacturer Texport (oddly based in MA, not TX), and now the tow companies are merging their assets. Much of the work will be to get the right people into the right positions at the company to get their businesses aligned and working fluidly together. This should help their dealers and customers alike. Only time will tell...

http://tinyurl.com/y8sdypz

A press release from the New Zealand Superbike Championship is getting us all worked up over the next round of the series in Invercargill. They, of course, highlight the Bugden/Stroud competition from last weekends events and tell us what we may expect in the coming rounds of the series. You will also see the current standings in each individual class.

http://tinyurl.com/y8uy5e3

Great work-up on the series: http://tinyurl.com/ycwgnes

Even More Morning Moto News - Vancouver, BSB & Capirossi

If you live in the Pacific-Northwest, you must learn about the Vancouver Motorcycle Show. It will be held from 21 to 24 January 2010 in the TRADEX Exhibition Centre in Abbotsford, near Vancouver, BC. It is a pretty big deal for that part of Canada and almost every large manufacturer will be on hand with their latest and greatest products. Take the link to learn more - attend if you are able!

http://tinyurl.com/yl8eltx

Sure to be another star of the above show: http://tinyurl.com/yflh6s6

Over in the British Superbike Championship, they have again appointed Mervyn Whyte MBE - who is the North West 200 Race Director - to be Chief Steward of the 2010 running of the series. This is his second stint at this position, which he did well previously, and he is more than happy to take up the work.

http://tinyurl.com/yhobzxn

Loris Capirossi has now said that the MotoGP paddock is a place for 'girls' (no offense of females intended, he simply meant young and scared) and real roads racing is where the men are today. He stated this as he was letting us know that he hopes to attend the Isle of man TT this year (in a car, he says) to help celebrate 50 years of competition for Suzuki. I understand what he is saying, but he is no 'girl' in the sense that he is frightened - he is a very brave competitor, IMHO.

http://tinyurl.com/yazjz9j

More Morning Moto News - Hopper, Mark Neale & Ben Spies

More news comes to us about John Hopkins and his dual role in 2010 with both the FB Corse MotoGP outfit and the M4 Suzuki AMA Pro Racing team. It seems that both options are a possibility - he may ride in two series this year. The FB Corse team, though, will only participate in select MotoGP rounds, but M4 will contest the entire American Superbike season. For more, take the link...

http://tinyurl.com/yf22uvd

More Hopper news: http://tinyurl.com/yd2gd89

Mark Neale is at it again! Remember the documentaries Faster and The Doctor, The Tornado and the Kentucky Kid? Well, he has now made on about last year's Isle of Man TTXGP race with the electric motorcycles - it is called, appropriately, Charge. Take the link and learn more...

http://tinyurl.com/yzqcrtd

It seems that Ben Spies will be one of the heaviest riders on the MotoGP circuit in 2010. He has given serious thought to losing some weight, but he also had some great success at Valencia while being at his current weight. Given how fit he is, I have to think that his weight is only a minor concern for his team, so nothing important to think about there...he is very talented and his size will not change that.

http://tinyurl.com/yz4pqh3

Wednesday Morning Moto News - More Dakar, Rossi & Pedrosa

Yes, there are even more post-race Rally Dakar articles available to all who wish to read them. Some contain only the motorcycle racing, but others simply discuss the Dakar from a view towards all participants. So, take a link or two below and catch up on the aftermath of this extreme race for yourself.

http://tinyurl.com/ycb974z

http://tinyurl.com/yk7udxn

http://tinyurl.com/yf8eqbj

Valentino Rossi is already out and testing the Ferrari Formula 1 machine in Spain. The first day it took some time for Rossi to adjust to the car, and to adjust the car to conditions. Either way, Rossi is having fun and enjoying his time with the team, as you would expect. Here is some early news of his time behind the wheel.

http://tinyurl.com/yhq5ltr

And, we have a pre-season interview with the one and only Dani Pedrosa. Here he evaluates his 2009 season performance versus the physical and technical issues he and his team faced that season. Pedrosa also discusses the 2010 MotoGP season what he sees for this coming year.

http://tinyurl.com/yk5m2sg

Busy Tuesday Afternoon Moto News - Kim Newcombe, Piaggio and AMA/MCC

Kim Newcombe was an incredible racer; one which even the greats respected. In the documentary Love, Speed and Loss, his life is chronicled for all to see and it is worth seeing. This film was well-directed by Justin Pemberton and features racing footage from the 1970's when Newcombe was storming the Grand Prix tracks of the World Championship. All of the film is available online, so you have no excuse to not see it.

http://tinyurl.com/yehbaho

Piaggio USA has had to cut sales staff due to the lull in scooter sales in 2009. So, many top-level managers have now been sent to the unemployment line. Hopefully, they will be able to hire them back soon...at least we can hope, right? The economy has yet to fully recover and, given what has been done to the banks who caused this (we gave them money; thus, we rewarded what should have been punished - they will do it again), it is not going to improve much in the coming years. Sorry Piaggio...2010 should be a better year!

http://tinyurl.com/ydgcuf7

The AMA has awarded the Motorcycle Confedration of Canada (MCC) the MOTORCYCLE AWARD of EXCELLENCE (MAX) for Riders in the Category: Motorcycle Organization. The presentation of the award took place at the North American International Motorcycle Supershow on Saturday, January 16, 2010. This was for their work on the International Street Party at the International Women & Motorcycling Conference. One organization recognizing another...

http://tinyurl.com/y9d9uo8

Tuesday Afternoon Moto News - Yamaha Zuma 125 & Norton Cafe Racer

It's a scooter, yes, but a very cool one. The 2010 Yamaha Zuma 125 is one tight, little ride and it rides very well for a machine of this size and tune. The funny part about this specific model is that the average age of the people who purchase it is 48! Maybe it's because this scooter is built to last a very long time - and it sips petrol at 70 miles per gallon or so...

http://tinyurl.com/y8kxh79

A sweet Norton restoration if I have ever seen one. OK, so it is more of a resto-mod, but I still find it to be rather tasty. The interesting bits are numerous, but the Aprilia V-twin engine powering it seems to say enough for this post. Really, you owe it to yourself to go and learn about the Taimoshan Cycle Works and the owner of it all, John Pellew.

http://tinyurl.com/ydw9u8y

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