Posts
MotoCzysz has now announced that they will be selling a race version of their E1pc powertrain, the Electric D1g1tal Drive (eDD). The eDD will allow teams to purchase a ready to roll power solution for an electric racing motorcycle. The price is a bit steep, but not as bad as you may think. If you have any interest in starting an electric race team, let me know! I will be glad to join and help out; the MotoCzysz shop is only blocks from where I live...You really do want to read this, so please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yhczc2f
The fourth round of the New Zealand Superbike Championship was held this past Sunday. The 125GP Championship was decided and Alistair Hoogenboezem took the 2010 title. Andrew Stroud still leads the Superbike class, with Robbie Bugden in second. Nick Cole barely holds on to the lead in the Supersport 600 class, as he is only 2.5 points ahead of James Smith. The next and final round is about a month away and will be held at Hampton Downs from 27 to 28 March 2010. For the details, take the link...
http://tinyurl.com/yf9ca4q
More Afternoon Moto News - MotoCzysz eDD & NZ Superbike Championship
Sunday Afternoon Moto News - ASBK Round One Results
It was not only the teams of WSBK who took to the Phillip Island circuit this weekend, the 2010 Australian Superbike Championship also kicked off this weekend. It was certainly a good race weekend, but only one rider walked away with the win in both races, GAS Honda's Wayne Maxwell. He took the victory over Bryan Staring and Josh Waters in race one, and got by Jamie Stauffer and Staring to take first in race two. For all the details, please take one of the links below.
http://tinyurl.com/yjvqd7c
http://tinyurl.com/yz7kcwj
Sunday Morning Moto News - Early Daytona Returns & WSBK Results from Phillip Island
Bike Week has kicked off in Daytona, Florida, this weekend and the first results have come back from the Michelin Team Challenge. It seems that an Australian rider, Aussie Dave Anthony, brought home first place in the GTO class with his Suzuki GSX-R1000 (I think). For the results of the GTU and GT Lites class, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yb2km4h
That's right, the World Superbike Championship round at Phillip Island is over, and we have several posts which detail the events in Australia and tell us who ended up where when the checkered flag was dropped at the end of both races. In race one, the finish was Haslam, Fabrizio and Haga; in race two, it was Checa, Haslam and then Fabrizio. As you can see, Ducati and Suzuki had great weekends. Aprilia had a good outing, but not a perfect race. For all the details, please take the links below.
Race 1: http://tinyurl.com/yd4mxod
Race 2: http://tinyurl.com/y9ogyce
Both Races: http://tinyurl.com/ycp6xkr
Both Races: http://tinyurl.com/y8m4jov
Aprilia's Races: http://tinyurl.com/yaer9tj
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Speed Dating & Dunlop Supports CSC
Road Racer X's Speed Dating column comes to us again...and I missed it earlier this week. Well, along with myself, Joe Petrali, Randy Krummenacher, Nicky Wimbauer, Takuma Aoki, Joey Dunlop, Toriano Wilson, Alex de Angelis, Joan Lascorz Moreno, Colin Edwards, Jorg Teuchert and Terry Rymer are all celebrating birthdays from this past week. Funny, Edwards and I share the same birthday and we were both born in Texas - but I am no MotoGP racer yet, why? Also, Triumph returned to racing during this week in 2003 in the British Supersport Championship.
http://tinyurl.com/ylq7h8t
The California State Championships (CSC) will now be supported by the Dunlop Motorcycle Tire company. It's a good thing for the three round series in this still bad economy...and they are quite pleased with how it has worked out so far. For more detail, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yz3g5t5
MORE Afternoon Moto News - BMW S1000RR Impresses & Vesrah Suzuki
A BMW dealer in Arizona asked a local race shop to take out their demo model 2010 BMW S1000RR to a local track to see how it might fair in an AMA race. Well, the stock, just off the showroom floor S1000RR managed to set the lap record at a local track - beating a Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Superstock trim. The record was set by former AMA racer Chris Peris. Given the results, the dealer - Iron Horse BMW - and the shop - Evan Steele Performance (ESP) - have decided to contend the AMA Pro Racing Superbike race at Fontana...and see where this leads them from there...
http://tinyurl.com/ybx69rn
Vesrah Suzuki - of WERA Endurance racing - will enter the 2010 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike series with two riders. Cory West and Jeff Wood will ride GSX-R600 bikes prepared by their team. They do have much of the same crew from previous seasons and will have the same sponsors. Looking good for the newcomer to the AMA series!
http://tinyurl.com/ylgeg36
More Afternoon Moto News - ASBK Qualifying & Interviews
In today's qualifying for the Australian Superbike Championship round at Phillip Island this weekend, GAS Honda's Wayne Maxwell took the pole. He fought hard against Motologic Ducati's Jamie Stauffer and Suzuki's Josh Waters. The times were so close, though, that they all might as well have qualified together. So, expect the first lap of the race to be very interesting as these three vie for the lead...
http://tinyurl.com/yaza4hh
There are many more stories on the race this weekend, but most of them are very similar. However, they all have a slightly different perspective. Plus, there is information on the other support class qualifications - something we rarely get to see in international reports. So, take some of the links below and get your news about the qualifying and the start of the race.
http://tinyurl.com/yguvmub
http://tinyurl.com/yzmwgtn
And, how about some video interviews with the top riders in the ASBK Championship? Well, take this link and have a view: http://tinyurl.com/yjkf859
Saturday Afternoon Moto News - Haslam Takes Pole & More WSBK!
Leon Haslam has taken his first ever pole position in World Superbike at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia. It is the first race of 2010, so this indicates just how hungry Haslam is for a win - and the championship. It will be an interesting race - don't miss it!
http://tinyurl.com/yhu7ezm
Another look at the World Superbike proceedings in Australia. We get a re-cap on Haslam's Superpole performance, Haga starting in tenth (!), and even my pick for this race, Max Biaggi, sitting back in eleventh position. There is a full grid listing and other information which you may want to know ahead of the race weekend.
http://tinyurl.com/ye6b67x
We also get to hear from the always talking Chris Vermeulen. He is targeting a top-10 position and hoping for seventh or eighth for the race this weekend at Phillip Island. This will give Kawasaki a higher finish than it had back in 2009 and help Vermeulen get the support he needs to race for the title.
http://tinyurl.com/y9yzsz2
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Jessica Patterson & MotoCzysz in the Movies
Jessica Patterson has now signed with DNA Shred Stix/Star Racing/Yamaha for the 2010 WMA season. Patterson is currently ranked number 2 in the world of women's motocross, so the team has accomplished a real coup to get her on-board their machines. She will be riding on a Yamaha and will most certainly be a factor in every AMA Motocross event this year.
http://tinyurl.com/yask7te
In the upcoming release (maybe remake?) "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps", you will see both a Ducati Desmosedici and the MotoCzysz C1 competing against each other. I am not sure, but even Michael Czysz might make an appearance in the film as he rides the C1 in the film for the movie. For a little more detail and a linked video preview of the film, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ydukvht
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Buildbase Kawasaki, ASBK & Full Throttle Sports
Buildbase Kawasaki has finished their testing in Spain in preparation for the 2010 British Superbike Championship, with riders John Laverty and Adam Jenkinson getting their first laps aboard the Kawasaki ZX-10R bikes they will be riding in the series. The time was organized by their suspension provider and was extremely useful for the new teammates. Wait and see if it helps them challenge for the title.
http://tinyurl.com/ycwbn2s
The 2010 Australian Superbike Championship will also be staring this weekend at Phillip Island - along with the WSBK season. To get an idea of the first day proceedings, the following link will give you some extreme detail as they list out the various happenings in a time-delineated format - thus showing you minute by minute what was happening at the circuit. If I find more previews, I will post them here.
http://tinyurl.com/ydxxj84
Waters is on top as of now: http://tinyurl.com/yete5nn
In further ASBK news, we hear that one team has added a sponsor to their teams. Cougar Bourbon has signed on with Full Throttle Sports to sponsor both the ASBK team and the Australian MX Championship. This is big as it is rare to find a sponsor so ready to support an entire team's operations. The livery has already been drawn up and is ready to be put on both their Honda Fireblade ASBK machine and their CRF450R MX machine. For all the details, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yenjamk
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Beach and Beaubier, Shane Byrne & WSBK Preview (again)
J.D. Beach and Cameron Beaubier will both be racing for Rockwall Honda in the AMA Pro Racing SuperSport East series. Both riders are still quite young, but they both also have many years of experience already. This pairing should be a powerhouse team in the SuperSport class. For more information, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ycbh83p
During the World Superbike qualifying at Phillip Island in Australia, Shane Byrne crashed hard and hurt his back. It is so severe that it may keep him out of this weekend's racing at the track. He was chasing Checa at the time, so he was certainly pushing himself. Let's hope he gets some rest and gets back in the saddle before Sunday!
http://tinyurl.com/ycs8dfw
From Alpinestars we get another preview of what to expect this weekend at Phillip Island. I am only posting this one because it is a bit different from the others. So, if you want some entertaining words about your favorite sport, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ya2lo5e
More Afternoon Moto News - MotoGP at Sepang, Marco Simoncelli & Team Recaps
The MotoGP testing is continuing on the Malaysian Sepang International Circuit - and Valentino Rossi is still leading everyone in lap times at the practice. Behind him this time were Casey Stoner, Nicky Hayden, Colin Edwards and Ben Spies. This speaks volumes on what we may see when the first race is complete...Hayden and Edwards are both improving greatly. We may actually see larger groups at the front this year. Either way, 2010 will be a wonderful year for motorcycle racing!
http://tinyurl.com/y8g47ct
Marco Simoncelli is not having such a good test, though, as he had a huge get-off during the practice sessions. He high-sided his Gresini Honda about three laps into his session; everyone was horrified at the accident as Simoncelli landed directly on his head. He was taken in for a CAT scan and all came back clear, but it still caught the attention of every ride and tech in the paddock.
http://tinyurl.com/yc49g7s
Take the link below to the MotoGP section of the Paddock Talk website where you will find several press releases from the MotoGP teams. There are several test 'recap' stories for you to peruse. So, take the link and click on your favorite team's report to see how they think the testing is going for them...
http://tinyurl.com/yznyogq
Friday Afternoon Moto News - Zero Motorcycle to Display 2010 Models & Zero Hires Former Buell Engineer
First up is the news that the long-awaited models from Zero Motorcycles will be premiering at Daytona Bike Week next month. Zero will have all four of their electric motorcycle models at the event - and there will be demo rides available! This is big news as Zero is the only electric bike manufacturer with four different models available to the public now.
http://tinyurl.com/ycb8m2l
Next, we get news that Zero Motorcycles has hired a former Buell engineer to be their Vice President of Engineering. Abe Askenazi has a wealth of experience and several higher education degrees (which somehow qualify him above people with more experience) and will be running their engineering and design groups. Given Askenazi's past, though, we can expect things to hum along at Zero for the foreseeable future.
http://tinyurl.com/y8mclxd
More Morning Moto News - Phillip Island WSBK, Guy Martin and Stephen Thompson
We have another report from World Superbike Practice at Phillip Island in Australia. This time is is Carlos Checa who led the field in testing yesterday. Behind him was Michel Fabrizio, and sitting in third was day one's fastest rider Leon Haslam. If I find more of these reports, I will place them in this post.
http://tinyurl.com/y8j82u9
http://tinyurl.com/yb6lxy5
http://tinyurl.com/ybzll5w
WSS: http://tinyurl.com/ydmfy6j
The BBC likes to follow a single rider during their preparation for the North West 200 real roads race held in the United Kingdom on 16 May 2010. They started the project, as far as I can tell, last year with James McCann. This year they will be taking on two racers - fan favorite Guy Martin and Stephen Thompson. The project has just started, but if you want to follow it, you should take the link below.
http://tinyurl.com/ybnr6tc
Friday Morning Moto News - FIM Homologated Motorcycles, Leon Haslam
The FIM has released its list of the homologated motorcycles which may participate in each of the classes within WSBK. For the list, please take the link...
http://tinyurl.com/yjpocee
Leon Haslam, he of Alstare Suzuki team, was the fastest rider on day one of the World Superbike testing at Phillip Island. He was the only rider to lap within his bracket. This bodes well for his WSBK season...but, he is up against the best in the world and the WSBK paddock is loaded with talent...so, we still must wait to see how the season goes...
http://tinyurl.com/y8pbm55
It appears as if Max Biaggi is not too far behind Haslam...Biaggi clocked the fastest top speed of anyone at Phillip Island on a Superbike, in fact he beat out his competition by 3.7 kph. It was not enough to get him past the top slot on the lap chart, but he is getting there. Just wait for race day!
http://tinyurl.com/ya3govo
Thursday Evening Moto News - Leslie Porterfield in Daytona & Mist Suzuki Needs Sponsors!
Leslie Porterfield, the world's fastest woman, will be interviewing both Chris Carr and Dennis Manning - rider and owner of the world's fastest motorcycle - at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Breakfast during Daytona Bike Week in Florida. Porterfield is perhaps the best person to take on this position as she knows speed very well and she has a great way with words. Tickets are still available to the 5 March 2010 event, so grab them while you can!
http://tinyurl.com/ygtulyb
A small Isle of Dogs team - Mist Suzuki - is facing a terrible issue as their main sponsor is 'reviewing' the contract. That means no money for the British Superbike Championship season opener at Brands Hatch in early April, and he may not see any at all. The team is short due to the economy and needs help. If you know someone local to them or in the UK looking to sponsor - at least a little - a BSB team - which gets a huge audience - then give them a quick call!
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Hungary's Balatonring & Jeremy McWilliams
Some Hungarian civic groups have raised concerns about the Balatonring Circuit soon to be built in the nation (for F1 and MotoGP as well as other national race series). Apparently, these groups believe that the public expenditure on this track far exceeds the amount the government should expect from revenues at the facility. Apparently, global accounting firm KPMG produced a feasibility study on Balatonring and it was not made public - they are asking that it is produced so every citizen can see for themselves whether this is a wise investment at this time...Honestly, I do hope they build the track, but they may need more private investment...
http://tinyurl.com/ygkh3yj
Jeremy McWilliams has signed on to ride in the inaugural season of the Harley-Davidson XR1200 Trophy series, which is now a part of the British Superbike Championship. He will be riding for Warr's Harley-Davidson on a bike which barely makes 60 hp. This comes after a great deal of experience with some much more powerful machines - MotoGP, AMA Pro Superbike and Formula Xtreme. It will be a tough road for the 45-year-old racer, but he has the skills to pull it off!
http://tinyurl.com/yg5zbag
MORE Afternoon Moto News - BMW Fuel Cell & MotoGP Testing
More Afternoon Moto News - Leon Haslam, Brian McCormack & Olie Linsdell and James Edmeades Enter TT
Yep, it's Leon Haslam speaking again! As you know well by now, Haslam will be riding for Alstare Suzuki in the World Superbike Championship. He truly sees this as his best chance to grab the WSBK title - he has the team, the bike and is in great shape this year. 2010 might just be his year...but there are so many very good racers in that paddock with him.
http://tinyurl.com/ykvqrem
2008 Irish Superbike Champion Brian McCormack will be making his TT debut this year at the Isle of Man annual race event. He was going to compete last year, but his team split with him and he lost his ride. This time he will be competing in all five individual classes...
http://tinyurl.com/ycre3rp
And, in more Isle of Man TT news, a Moto2 bike and a KTM RC8R will be entered in the proceedings. The Moto2 machine comes from the same shop which built the Moto2 frame for Alex Debon's machine in that series; British rider Olie Linsdell will ride the machine. The KTM will be entered in three different classes and will be ridden by James Edmeades. For all the details, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ya3d486
Thursday Afternoon Moto News - Sam Costanzo Dies, Leon Camier & Josh Brookes
Sam Costanzo, the man who seems to have single-handedly helped out every collector and rider of the Suzuki rotary-powered RE5 (made from 1975 - 77), has been taken from us by cancer. Costanzo did sell the business and it has been moved to Tennessee where it still runs well, but he was the one who kept up the back-end of the love affair between owners and their RE5. He was instrumental in Suzuki's work on the machine, so it makes sense that he would know virtually everything about the model.
http://tinyurl.com/ygw9uc9
2009 British Superbike Champion Leon Camier is having some trouble coming to terms with his new Aprilia RSV-4 WSBK mount. He is at Phillip Island doing testing ahead of this weekend's racing. His Yamaha was well set-up for his riding style, but that took time to get right. The Aprilia WSBK machine may take a few more practices to get the setup perfect for Camier to challenge for the title.
http://tinyurl.com/yhx5so2
Australia's Josh Brookes will be making a quick return to the World Superbike paddock this weekend at Phillip Island. Once he finishes that race, though, he will return to his BSB home. He is familiar with the track and the Australian weather, but not much else - thus, he will be learning as he will be riding someone else's machine...
http://tinyurl.com/yj5fqvc
Early Morning Moto News? Tomasz Gollob Wants to Race!
And, why the heck not!?! He should be able to race and ride for as long as he wants - we all know this as we have all thought, at least once or twice, that we will never stop riding unless it stops being fun. That is not likely to happen. Gollob wants to keep riding in the FIM Speedway Grand Prix series for at least nine more years - he does his life in ten year plans and he just started. Third place in 2008, second place in 2009, and we will see where he ends up in 2010. He should be on path for that title, finally! If everything holds together, I hope he is still in it at 50, if he is happy to do so. Again, a message of Good Luck to the Polish rider, and let this be the last season we hear, "the best rider without a championship."
http://tinyurl.com/ygz56t2
More Night Moto News - Burmuda's Antoine Richards
This racer hails from a place used by huge American and multinational corporations to keep from paying taxes anywhere, the island nation of Bermuda. It is also a well-known, but a bit expensive, Caribbean getaway. His name is Antoine Richards and he will be competing in the AMA Pro Racing Daytona 200 event for the very first time. He says that he isn't intimidated...well, wait until near mile 160 when your tire starts to slide to and fro...At least he will get some good practice in at the coming weekend's CCS races at the same location. Stand with me, though, and wish him Good Luck! May you reach the podium because it would be a very interesting story and, of course, you will have the historic win!
http://tinyurl.com/yjonfde
Wednesday Night Moto News - Honda in Ohio, Shifcustom Duster & Dal Smilie
Honda's former Goldwing factory in Marysville, Ohio, has now become a parts center for the auto factory next door. The factory has been in the city for over 30 years now...and, it really was a shame when they moved production to Japan. But, they have to do what they have to do...
http://tinyurl.com/y8zbmzv
Well, it is not my dream machine, but it is certainly creative! The Shifcustom Duster hails from Eastern Europe and the fabrication is done all in house. The builder is using it as a showpiece. A Ducati Monster S4 provides its engine for the machine. It's got its strong points, but white?
http://tinyurl.com/y9bvlfl
Former AMA Chairman of the Board is now serving time behind bars as opposed to in them. After the lengthy trial and some wrangling, he has plead guilty and will serve at least 30 days of an eight month sentence - he can apply for early release after his first month. Considering his crimes, it seems a fair sentence...but, he did pay the money back.
http://tinyurl.com/yho9ofj
And, More Evening News - Rizla Suzuki Riders & 2010 Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré
The MotoGP Rizla Suzuki team riders stopped in Japan at the Suzuki factory in Hamamatsu to tour the factory, meet the people working there, and to meet with the race department ahead of their test in Malaysia. There are some issues which Loris Capirossi and Alvaro Bautista want to work out before they begin their work at the Sepang IC. For more, please take the link...
Finally, Yamaha has unveiled one of the most anticipated bikes this season, the 2010 XT1200Z Super Tenere! It is meant to be a direct competitior to the R1200GS from BMW, as you already know. Of course, there is the Ducati offering as well...and Moto Morini...and Moto Guzzi....it's getting veyr crowded in this popular segment these days. This is one sweet machine, though... MORE Evening Moto News - Honda 3R-C EV & River Ranch GNCC
http://tinyurl.com/yfcy6mk
The River Ranch GNCC round is coming up on 2 March 2010 in the town of Lake Wales, Florida. It is part of the 2010 Can-Am Grand National Cross Country motorcycle racing series. It is a special time for New Zealander Paul Whibley, who is also the defending champion, as he prepares to defend his title. This year he rides with the Am-Pro Yamaha team this season...and he is ready to ride...
http://tinyurl.com/ykh5ch5
More Evening Moto News - Troy Corser & Swedish Electric Motorcycle
Troy Corser will be riding a BMW S1000RR in this coming weekend's World Superbike race at Phillip Island. You might think that he will have a sizable advantage given this is his home track, but you might be wrong. It seems that the Ducati team had a much better practice at the track and Corser had some issues...Take the link and learn why we might as well consider him at a slight disadvantage.
http://tinyurl.com/yzocjr8
A new team has committed to racing in the Isle of Man TT Zero race on 9 June 2010. The team is known as the Swedish Electric Racing Team (SERT) and they have purchased a former Stiggy Racing Honda CBR600RR to use as the chassis for their entry. Chris Palmer will be riding their bike and he has plenty of experience; he has three wins and four podiums since his debut on the Isle in 1990.
http://tinyurl.com/yhesaat
Wednesday Evening Moto News - Scott Guthrie & Triumph's New Models
Another write-up from Rocky Robinson and his 'Salt Addiction' column. In this piece, Scott Guthrie is covered. a true renaissance man who also loves to capture land speed records. He has personally broken over 240 of them, and his team has broken over 380! You really need to read this one...
http://tinyurl.com/yhtgktt
Well, I will not be laying them all out here for you - there are too many details and too many great photos after the link below. But, I will say that Triumph will soon sell its 100,000 motorcycle since returning to North America some 15 years ago. Their market share is growing in the US and there is good reason for that - they make great motorcycles. Hop on over and see what they have waiting for you...
http://tinyurl.com/yfzw452
First Ride - 2010 Star Stratoliner Deluxe
MORE Afternoon Moto News - MotoGP Budgets & World Superbike Preview
The budget will be the determining factor for whether Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki or Ducati move up to the newly ruled displacement in MotoGP. The maximum displacement goes from 800 to 1000cc when the 2012 season begins, but the factories want the ability to continue to run their 800 engines in the class if they cannot afford to build an entirely new model. They all want to be able to move to the liter sized bikes, but they are not sure they can get the money to do so...
http://tinyurl.com/y9z42rg
From my friends at All About Bikes we have a great preview of the 2010 World Superbike Championship - which, incidentally, starts in just a few days at Phillip Island in Australia. The author takes on each of the teams and, though he does not cover every single detail of every rider, he does a very good job of giving you a quick portrait of each rider on the team and their recent history. Take the link and you will be more prepared for the 2010 season.
http://tinyurl.com/y8aqkpj
MORE Afternoon Moto News - MotoGP at Sepang, Chris Vermeulen & Bridgestone
The MotoGP teams are now back in Malaysia at the Sepang circuit for more pre-season testing. The first day is reserved for test riders, but Honda and Ducati decided to wait until tomorrow and just run with their actual racers. For what little detail there is, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/y9mrhfz
Chris Vermuelen is already saying the he likes the World Superbike experience more than what he had in MotoGP. We have heard him say this before, and he does have a great reason for his opinion as it is one which many other fans agree with now. Just look at all the manufacturers and riders in the series...2010 will most certainly be a great year for WSBK!
http://tinyurl.com/yeq7rek
Bridgestone is already working out whether they will try again to become the spec tire for the MotoGP Championship beyond 2011. They are the tire supplier up to the end of that year, but there is no word on how well the series is working for them. It is expensive and Bridgestone has already dropped out as the sole tire used in Formula 1 (at the end of this year), so they may pull out of the motorcycle version as well...
http://tinyurl.com/ydqozah
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Husqvarna Story & Phillip Island WSBK
Husqvarna nearly died while under the control of Cagiva, but instead the marque is on its way back to its historic importance in the dirt-racing world. Cagiva did do some great work getting the company solvent again within the last five or six years, and that was enough to interest BMW. So, the Germans have taken the reigns and done some awesome work to the Husky products and they are selling everywhere now...how did this all happen, well take the link and read the story.
http://tinyurl.com/ylbftbl
The Phillip Island circuit in Australia has signed up with the World Superbike Championship to host an event there until 2014. Also, the track will be the location of pre-season tests for the next two seasons. Of course, this was expected, but it is always nice to have confirmation.
http://tinyurl.com/yj5rafw
More Afternoon Moto News - Racing Insider & More NW200 Participants
From our friend Alex Gobert in Australia comes this week's Racing Insider. As usual, he covers the big motorcycle racing series - WSBK, ASBK, MotoGP, AMA Superbike, Aussie Motocross and AMA Supercross. The news is big given the fact that in two days the racing season will begin for Australian and World Superbike...you should be getting ready!
http://tinyurl.com/yd8tc86
MSS Colchester Kawasaki will be supporting three Northern Irish riders in the North West 200 event this coming May. Riders entered will be Ryan Farquhar and Stephen Thompson on ZX-10Rs and Jamie Hamilton on a ZX-6R. Considering the importance of this race, it is nice to see even more riders and teams joining the competition.
http://tinyurl.com/ygkbajx
More Afternoon Moto News - Aprilia and BSB & Alastair Seeley's NW200
Aprilia has also announced that they will be in the 2010 BSB Evo Championship. That makes it eight manufacturers participating in the series - a nice, large number of variety. The Splitlath Motorsport team will be campaigning their machines with riders (and brothers) Chris and Joe Burns. That makes some 32 riders on the BSB grid, with 12 of them competing in the new Evo series. (This may be a repeat post, but it is a new article.)
http://tinyurl.com/ygges5t
Alistair Seeley may not be able to race in the North West 200 Superbike class this year. We all know that long-time fan favorite Stuart Easton will be returning to the event, but leaving Seeley out of the premier race will make it less of a special event. For now, Seeley's team will be talking with the organizers of the event to see if they can get him into the proper classes at the 15 May 2010 event.
http://tinyurl.com/yz883y6
Wednesday Afternoon Moto News - BMW and BSB & Tom Sykes
BMW has announced that they have teamed up with Jentin Racing to compete in the National 1000 Superstock with Richard Cooper and in the BSB Evo series with rider Steve Brogan. All parties are quite happy with the arrangement and it looks like BMW will be racing their S1000RR against the best in the world on at least four continents.
http://tinyurl.com/yj4q7d7
Tom Sykes is very happy with his new Kawasaki World Superbike Team, and Paul Bird Motorsport, so far. He will be competing on the World stage very soon and feels that the Kawasaki team has what it will take to get him to the top. Sykes has some strong competition, though, so even doing very well may not be enough...
http://tinyurl.com/yecesv9
Wednesday Morning Moto News - MV Agusta 800/3 & Jason Crump
The rumored three-cylinder (sometimes referred to as the F3) from MV Agusta has been delayed. The bike is 95% complete and will be around 800cc, instead of the expected 675, and can lap a track only a second off a liter-class racer. It was expected to be sold starting late this year or early in 2011, but it will now be put on hold until the company is finally sold by Harley-Davidson.
http://tinyurl.com/yd3xwbh
FIM Speedway Grand Prix Champion Jason Crump will be traveling to England for the Somerset Speedway's 10 Year Anniversary Meeting on 19 March 2010. Given the fact that he will not be participating full-time in the British Speedway series this year, this will be one of only a few chances for British fans to see Crump race. Get your tickets soon!
http://tinyurl.com/ykb2d8m
I'm Back, Finally...
OK, I am aware that few people read this blog...but there are some. Thus I am apologizing for not posting for the last few days. My computer crashed in a very nasty way on Friday night. I - and I do mean this literally, not figuratively - had to break it down and build it back as well as adding a new hard drive and installing the OS and applications, and then moving the data. I am using superglue, duct tape, solder and some banker clips to hold it together (much like my own self); I need a new computer!
Anyway, all will begin again tomorrow morning...back to the Moto News we all want to read...
Peace and Good Night...
Saturday Morning Moto News - BMW S1000RR, Jonathan Rea & More MotoGP and Moto2 Rules
Would you like to see the 2010 BMW S1000RR valvetrain going at full tilt? The engine will rev up to 14,200RPM - a huge number when you really think about it. Well, if you would like to see this amazing bit of technology in action, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yb8vllo
Jonathan Rea has his sights firmly set for MotoGP. Even though the young Northern Irishman will fight it out this season on the World Superbike stage, his ultimate goal is to race in the Grand Prix series. His Ten Kate Honda team will certainly do whatever it takes to keep him on top this season, so he might get that chance after all.
http://tinyurl.com/yhjxvkt
The FIM has released an even more detailed explanation about the new rules for the 2010 MotoGP and Moto2 series. They have had to make updates due to some technology issues as well as problems with understanding the spec-engine rule in Moto2. There are many changes, so do yourself a favor and take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yzagam8
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Lorenzo Lanzi & Suzuki Alstare WSBK
Lorenzo Lanzi is returning to World Superbike with the DFX Corse Ducati team and the Ducati 1098R. He has a long history with the series, and has won three races in the series during his career. Lanzi did ride for the team in ten races in 2009, but his best was an eleventh place. He is hoping to get better than he was his first time in the series...here's hoping he does well!
http://tinyurl.com/y9xvbwy
More good sponsorship news - this time from World Superbike. Suzuki Alstare has signed with Estonian beer company Viru - it is bottled in Italy by Buscaldi Group, which has a previous relationship with the team. The new livery is actually rather nice. However, a name that is one letter short of virus? I hope it's very good beer!
http://tinyurl.com/yfpvpok
Friday Afternoon Moto News - MotoCzysz Returns to Isle of Man & Noriyuki Haga
MotoCzysz is not worried about the Isle of Man issue between the TTXGP series and the local TT Zero race. In fact, they simply want to race their new 2010 E1pc electric motorcycle in the event this summer. The bike is 90% new, according to Michael Czysz, and is anything but a tame and quiet motorcycle. They are going for the 100 mph top speed prize as well as the win. For all the details, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yhrsuex
Noriyuki Haga has now said that he thinks 2010 will be his toughest year yet in World Superbike. That is because he has a slew of former champions and several national champions now in the series as his competitors. Plus, he has many of the same tough adversaries from 2009. Haga has his work cut out for him...the man deserves a Championship!
http://tinyurl.com/ye3ch8u
MORE Morning Moto News - Haiti Relief Continues!
The linked story just popped up this morning and, in the interest of showing how motorcyclists care and to keep the focus on the disaster, I figured it would be a good idea to post this story on Haiti relief. This one takes place in Los Angeles and you have read about it before - Ride 4 Haiti - which starts out at Glendale Harley-Davidson on 27 February 2010. For all the people involved and the story behind all of this, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yf6d7gr
More Morning Moto News - Aprilia Recall, Honda Racing & CPSIA + MIC
The recall for the 2010 Aprilia RSV-4 has been updated. The North American side of this issue now has the RSV-4 engines on hand and the replacement should be complete in the next two to three weeks. That's good news for all the owners; at least they will get them done in time for summer!
http://tinyurl.com/yz7ocz5
Honda has now put out a press release detailing their factory racing efforts for the entire spectrum of motorcycle racing. They talk about MotoGP, WSBK, BSB, Moto2, etc. So, take the link and grab the racing update from Big Red.
http://tinyurl.com/yg7xb7b
The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) in the US managed to deliver some 4000 signatures from experts, who work in the motorcycle industry and some who specialize in safety, to the US Congress yesterday. The petition calls for there to be an exclusion from the CPSIA bill for youth-oriented motorcycles and ATVs. It's really a simple idea and Congress should act on it soon. We do need your help, though, so please read the linked article and contact your legislators today!
http://tinyurl.com/ybar88k
Friday Morning Moto News - WSBK, Brookes for Parkes & Gary Mason
The World Superbike Championship teams have all taken their equipment down to Phillip Island for the second official test of the 2010 season. The testing action actually begins on Sunday (21 February) and will go through the following day. Then, the big weekend comes and the WSBK teams have started their season - that all happens 26 - 28 February. For all the details, take one of the links below.
http://tinyurl.com/y9dl3zk
http://tinyurl.com/ykp5qcs
The injured Broc Parkes will be replaced on his Echo CRS Honda WSBK team by racer Josh Brookes. It marks the return of Brookes to WSBK after being away for two years. The deal only goes through the first race at Phillip Island, but it could be extended...
http://tinyurl.com/yfuz8uf
In the BSB paddock, Gary Mason is going for the Championship! Of course, all riders in the fields will want to do that, and most will figure they have some chance of it at the beginning of the season. But, Mason has already won the Privateer's Cup last year, so his next step is that Championship. Will he take Kawasaki to the top of the BSB podium? Well, we will all have to stay tuned...
http://tinyurl.com/yd9cxvj
More Afternoon Moto News - New Norton, Motorcycle Safety & Allstate Giveaway
The new Norton Motorcycles will begin producing their Norton Commando 961 in England. Of course, we all know that the original design was penned by American Kenny Dreer, but it is Stuart Garner who had the resources to finally get the marque back in the business of making machines of lust. The first 50 Nortons should get to the US this year - that's a good thing when you consider how long many of these people have been waiting for their 2010 Commando.
http://tinyurl.com/y9zfewc
The California Highway Patrol is pushing a message of looking out for motorcyclists all across the state. Of course, the target audience is auto and truck drivers (mostly auto) drivers. The MSF is quite happy about this work as you would expect - and we should all thank the CHP for the effort. It is better than being ignored as we are in other states...
http://tinyurl.com/yhz7qo8
Through a press release, the Allstate insurance company has announced a special giveaway. One lucky winner will win a one-of-a-kind custom motorcycle designed by legendary bike builder Dave Perewitz. It will be revealed on 19 February (I will update this post at that time) and will be a Pro Street style machine. To enter the "Allstate Pro Street Sweepstakes" please take the link to the link...
http://tinyurl.com/y8udajk
More Afternoon Moto News - Electric Motorcycles & Asian Motocross Championship Series
First up, we have a report on what experts believe will be the sales volume of electric motorcycles. The word is that they expect some 466,000,000 to be on the road by the year 2016. It is a very interesting read and it is a good read for someone interested in forecasting the future of our industry. Of course, there are still the doubters - in fact, someone recently called the "green movement" and electric motorcycles a fad! What an idiot!
http://tinyurl.com/yj64yqc
In the Philippines, at the Sta. Monica International Racetrack in Puerto Princesa City (Palawan), the 2010 FIM Asian Motocross Championship Series will start on 21 February 2010. This is the seventh straight start at this location and it will bring out the best motocross riders from all over eastern Asia. The rules are a little different there, but it is very much worth following!
http://tinyurl.com/yazltbb
Thursday Afternoon Moto News - The Electric Confusion & PINK AMA Supercross
Mark Gardiner has done a great job of covering the stink between the TTXGP and the Isle of Man - with their TT Zero race. As you may already know, the Isle of Man race organizers switched away from Azhar Hussain's race series, the TTXGP, to their own version which they call the TT Zero. There is a great deal which went on behind the scenes when this decision was made. For some of that knowledge and to get some history on the whole affair, take the link to the two part article...it is worth your time!
http://tinyurl.com/yfovtr6
Well, we read that the Kawasaki 24-hour charity ride for the Cure was a success; we also heard that the AMA Supercross race held the next day was also used to bring in some money in the fight against Breast Cancer - they raised over US$27,000! Well, there is also an auction for various autographed goods from your favorite racer. Just take the link to learn the details. Susan G. Komen is loving this, and they are most grateful!
http://tinyurl.com/yeuzhlw
More Morning Moto News - Isle of Man TT & Moto2 Test
A minister in the Isle of Man government, John Shimmin, is upset that he was mislead into splitting the TTXGP from the Isle of Man TT event. Shimmin did want the island to become a leader in zero-emissions racing, so he helped with the first TTXGP. He just cannot understand why the original deal fell apart after only one year...I bet it has to do with finances - everyone wants a part of the future!
http://tinyurl.com/yhdveg9
Shoya Tomizawa, on the Technomag-CIP Suter MMX bike, was fastest on the first day of the Moto2 test at Catalunya, Spain. Roby Rolfo managed to dislocate his shoulder in a fall, which will have him out for four weeks and he will miss the next Moto2 test at Valencia. Jules Cluzel and Yonny Hernandez were second and third on the day. For all the details, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yhdt9xw
Thursday Morning Moto News - 2012 MotoGP Rules, Ross Gurd & KTM Australia
The FIM has confirmed the rule changes for MotoGP which go into effect for the 2012 season. The engine displacement will increase and privateer teams will have special allowances versus the factory teams. There is not much more hear than you already know, but it is now official.
http://tinyurl.com/yk37xeo
Ross Gurd has paid his dues, and then some, in motorcycle racing. He has been racing for 15 years - motocross, road racing, speedway and enduro - and is ready to reap some results in the 2010 Australian Superstock 600 Championship. He will need more support to finish the season, but it is starting to look good for the Australian.
http://tinyurl.com/yjlrdkx
KTM's Australian Superbike Championship team is going on a huge KTM dealership tour where fans can meet the members of the team. Racers Shannon Johnson and Chris Trounson will be on hand at each event; and their fully-liveried KTM 1190 RC8 R race bikes will also be in attendance. For all the details, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ylqx6lq
Wednesday Evening Moto News - Brett McCormick & Ride for Haiti
2009 Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick will be racing with the Picotte Performance team, riding a Suzuki GSX-R1000, in the AMA Pro Racing American Superbike Championship for 2010. His team in Canada was just hit too hard by the economy to be able to support him in his home nation. So, he has decided to race in the US with his own money and some help from his new team. Let's wish him well!
http://tinyurl.com/ygwovtx
Out in Los Angeles, Jimmy Jean-Louis (someone in NBC’s TV show "Heroes"), and several other organizations are bringing a Ride for Haiti event to the city on 27 February 2010 - just a over a week away. The event will kick off from Glendale Harley Davidson. There is a plethora of information about the ride, the people involved and the people who will be helping Haiti with your donations. Please take the link and do something to help; the people of Haiti need whatever we can get to them...
http://tinyurl.com/yafakwd
More Afternoon Moto News - Electric Motorcycle Racers & Pegram Racing Club
As you might expect, electric motorcycle racers simply want to face the best of the competition. With the strange competition between the three major players in organizing the races, it looks like some teams will never meet on the track, and that is not good for the sport. The questions abound and most are covered after the link...
http://tinyurl.com/ykpw9a4
With the upcoming AMA Pro Racing season getting even nearer, Larry Pegram has come up with another way to gain some sponsorship money has created the Pegram Racing Club. With support from Foremost Insurance and Ducati NA, Pegram has been able to build a successful team around the Ducati 1098R - he won 3 races last year and finished fourth overall. With the Club, which is only limited to 10 people, the members will get a first-hand experience with American motorcycle racing...take the link for more information.
http://tinyurl.com/ylx6czb
Wednesday Afternoon Moto News - Kawasaki for the Cure & 250 MX Shootout
The Kawasaki Moto Marathon for the Cure was run in conjunction with the Anaheim III round of the AMA Supercross event, which was also themed with Breast Cancer Awareness, last weekend. It was a 24-hour event where riders were trained on off-road skills of all kinds for as long as they needed or wanted instruction. Participants were offered the classes for free as long as they made a donation to the San Diego Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. 75 riders attended and more than US$2500 was raised from just their donations! It is a long story, so please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yjnx58d
MotorcycleUSA has just wrapped up a test of all the popular 250cc motocross bikes - minus the Suzuki RM-Z250, which was unavailable for the test. They did test the 2010 Honda CRF250R, Kawasaki KX250F, KTM 250 SX-F and Yamaha YZ250F and came home with some results. To find out who won what and which machine is the best for MX riding and racing, please read the article after the link. (It looks like Big Red has done it again...)
http://tinyurl.com/yzlovnf
MORE Morning Moto News - Andrew Pitt & Wanganui Rally
Australian and World Supersport Champion Andrew Pitt recently got the chance to take to the skies in a BAC 167 1000km/h Strikemaster MK88 Jet Fighter. Rodney Hall, a NZ businessman and celebrated pilot - and a huge Pitt fan - was responsible for taking him up in the jet fighter. It was an experience that Pitt will never forget...now, if only he can get a pilot's license himself!
http://tinyurl.com/yavxzav
In New Zealand on 5 - 7 March 2010, the Wanganui Classic Motorcycle Rally will be held. I have only found a message board post, so the details are scant. However, the post links to the website which is run by the organizers, so you should be able to get all the details there. All pre-1986 motorcycles are welcome to enter for judging in various categories. Also, there will be some vintage motocross held in conjunction with the event.
http://tinyurl.com/yc4ymzb
MORE Morning Moto News - Marco Simoncelli gets Sponsored & Racing Insider
Italian denim clothing brand Rifle has signed MotoGP rookie Marco Simoncelli. Rifle will sponsor the young Italian's efforts in the MotoGP World Championship through the 2010 season. They will also produce a special line of branded products called 'Supersic' which will bear Simoncelli's signature. Nice!
http://tinyurl.com/yaqjpmu
From Down Under, we get this week's edition of Racing Insider by Alex Gobert. As usual, he dishes on the various big events dealing with motorcycle racing worldwide. He covers the Australian Superbike series, World Superbike, MotoGP, AMA Supercross and Australian Motocross. Most of the stories you may have already heard, but it is worth a quick read to catch the things we missed...
http://tinyurl.com/yd9veu3
More Morning Moto News - AMA Board of Directors Change, MotoGP Rules & Suzi Perry
The AMA has just finished up their annual Board of Directors meeting in Indianapolis (13 February 2010). At that meeting, they decided to make changes to the make-up of the BoD - instead of six industry representatives on the Board, there will now only be four. There will also now be two 'at-large' Board members who will be elected by the entire organization (or so it seems now), but the Board will continue to have 12 members total. For all the information, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/y8vx5f9
When the 2012 MotoGP season begins, there will be some new rules for privateer teams. They will then be allowed more engines and larger fuel tanks than the factory teams on the grid once the maximum displacement is increased to 1000cc. This is an obvious move to spur more competition in the paddock and to invite some others who may not have been in the series previously. It could cause some backlash, but it is likely to expand beyond the small number of current riders.
http://tinyurl.com/y8gp42d
Fan favorite Suzi Perry has quit the BBC MotoGP coverage unit - she will no longer report from the MotoGP paddock. After 13 years behind the microphone with the racing series, she will be moving on to work on her broadcasting career beyond motorcycle racing. She will be missed and we wish her luck!
http://tinyurl.com/y97vlck
More Morning Moto News - Simon Andrews, Parrish Bullish on Brits & Riders for Health
MSS Colchester Kawasaki top rider Simon Andrews could be in some serious trouble. Andrews has admitted to three separate driving offenses which could lead him to time in prison and/or they may take away his driving license. He has pleaded guilty...and it may cost him his 2010 BSB season - idiot!
http://tinyurl.com/y9wttt4
Well-known motorcycle World Champion and journalist Steve Parrish has said that 2010 will be the year of Britain in the motorcycle racing series of the world. He expects James Toseland to get a fire under his rear and to take the WSBK paddock by storm; however, he sees Jonathan Rea as the heir apparent for the World Championship. No matter how it all goes down, British participation is heading in the right direction for him!
http://tinyurl.com/ye3pac4
The BBC has kindly placed a documentary film about the Riders for Health charity online for all to watch. The documentary is from a program called "Alvin's Guide to Good Business" and you can access it from a link after the link below. They do wonderful work and the video is worth watching!
http://tinyurl.com/ye4gry6
Wednesday Morning Moto News - Leon Camier, MIST Suzuki & Steve Plater
Only because the story has somehow become syndicated I will post it here. Apparently, Leon Camier is quite happy with the new Aprilia WSBK livery. He is very excited at the opportunity to ride in the World Superbike Championship. For more, take the link...though, you know most of it already.
http://tinyurl.com/yekdu3k
British Superbike team MIST Suzuki may not be ready for the 2010 season opener at Brands Hatch, 3 - 5 April. The bikes they will be running are doing quite well, and the team is as ready as they can be to tackle the championship. However, they are having serious sponsorship issues - as many are - and may not have everything they need in order to start the season, including the all important rider...check it out:
http://tinyurl.com/y9r29c9
New news is coming to us about Steve Plater and his run at the North West 200 road race. Plater will contest five different races at the event; two Supersport, two Superbike and, now, one Superstock race as well. He will be riding for the HM Plant Honda team for the event.
http://tinyurl.com/yckrnhy
Tuesday Evening Moto News - AMA Expands Think. Ride. Program
The AMA has really added some content to their Think.Ride. Program, which was launched last October. They have added videos, audio tracks and print advertisements - many featuring AMA Board of Directors member and well-known actor Perry King - all of which are available online. This is a huge program to help with rider safety and motorcycle awareness. It's good to know they are doing this and doing it right. All we need now is more media coverage.
http://tinyurl.com/yztwg9s
MORE Afternoon Moto News - First Multistrada & Fast by Ferracci Teams W/ Doug Polen
The very first 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200 has come off the production line - about time! The first model was an Ohlins-equipped S model, which should reach dealerships by April (though, not sure if that means Europe, USA or everywhere). The base model will be available shortly after that in May.
http://tinyurl.com/yjoqong
The first 20 people to purchase a Ducati superbike from Fast by Ferracci will not only get a special track day event at New Jersey Motorsports Park (16 August 2010), but they will also get help from VIP, and former FbF racer, Doug Polen. Polen will work with each of the 20 lucky fans to setup their bike for the track - he will be their personal technician. For all the details, see the press release.
http://tinyurl.com/yz2tvtn
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Sarolea Motorcycle & Pit Pass Radio
A very rare Sarolea Motorcycle, a 1942 model, was featured on the History Channel show "Pawn Stars". The pawn broker in the show purchased the vintage Belgian motorcycle for US$4500 and then sold it at auction for US$7000. It is probably worth a bit more as there are rumored to only be 5 of them in the entire USA. These bikes are in high demand by collectors, so expect to hear plenty more of this story in the coming weeks.
http://tinyurl.com/ylhsent
And, we have the line-up for this week's Pit Pass Radio. Tonight will feature Zach Ames (Arenacross Racer, Spine Chillers Storm Lake Honda), Dan Brown (Owner, Trials Training Center Trials Training Center), Larry Pegram (Superbike Racer Team Owner - as if you needed to know that), and Danny Walker (Founder and President, American Supercamp). Tune in and get your interview on!
http://tinyurl.com/yz8gcjr
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Inland Northwest Motorcycle & Kawasaki UK
The Inland Northwest Motorcycle Show went off this past weekend in Spokane, Washington, in the Pacific Northwest. The show was mostly made up of local dealerships and motorcycle-related businesses - of which there are many fewer this year than last due to the lackluster economy - and the halls were much more occupied than even the author expected. Take a look and see what we missed...
http://tinyurl.com/ybglxvl
Kawasaki's U.K. operation has set up a website for British residents who wish to take a demo ride of a new Kawasaki motorcycle. The site - kawasakitestride.co.uk - allows anyone to get their leg over a new machine from the Japanese marque. It's a great idea that we all hope will spread to other countries as well!
http://tinyurl.com/ycdnwvl
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Oberdan Bezzi & Dirico Motorcycles
Designer Oberdan Bezzi has worked with the great motorcycle marques - Ducati, Cagiva, Aprilia, Benelli and Moto Guzzi - during his time. And, it is very likely that you have seen some of his sketches on various motorcycle websites and in many magazines. He is a very creative and makes some designs which demonstrate perfectly the passion he has for motorcycles - just look through them! For a quick interview, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yaw3lgz
Dirico Motorcycles has teamed up with Aerosmith front man Steven Tyler to create three Aerosmith 'Dream On' Pro-Street custom motorcycles for the Ohio Lottery. Each will be emblazoned with Aerosmith logos and the signatures of the entire band. They will be given away in a special scratch-and-win lottery game in Ohio. For all the details, please take the link and get your tickets when they are available!
http://tinyurl.com/y8brvz5
More Afternoon Moto News - Ryan Farquhar & Claudio Domenicali
Ryan Farquhar was interviews by the Crash.net website about his work in the 2009 Irish road race season. He participated in just about every event held on Irish soil for his class and managed to bring home 60 race victories! That's a new record which eclipsed Joey Dunlop's total. Farquhar also won the 2009 Duke Road Rankings title - his fourth. His toughest race last year, though, was the Southern 100. To hear it in his own words, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yzvmybh
MCN (UK) has gained an exclusive interview with Ducati man Claudio Domenicali about the Multistrada's new active suspension and other neat features. It is a short piece, but rather educational. The new Multistrada 1200 is the most advanced bike Ducati has yet released...can't wait to demo one!
http://tinyurl.com/yzstda2
Tuesday Afternoon Moto News - NZ Battle of the Streets & Sturgis Eternal Combustion
It is actually known as the Yamaha Battle of the Streets and it will take place in Paeroa, New Zealand. Several well-known local racers will be in the competition along with many unknowns from the club racing and track day ranks. It is run on a real roads course through the town. Other attractions include demo rides, BMW's S1000RR on display and many other vendors will be present. For more information, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yzwjo25
At the Sturgis rally this year a photographer well-known in the custom world, Michael Lichter, will be putting on a show at the Buffalo Chip Campground; he calls it the Eternal Combustion 30 in the Wind. There will be 30 custom bikes on display from the nations best builders, and a huge selection of Lichter's photographs will also be displayed. To be fair, there are some great bikes in this group - not as many repli-choppers as you might expect - so take the time to stop by and enjoy the views...
http://tinyurl.com/yk8cfve
More Morning Moto News - Gruppo Campari, Chris Vermeulen, Bradley Smith & Scott Redding
Gruppo Campari - owners of the Cinzano brand - has signed with Dorna to continue their sponsorship until the 2013 season. As you probably know, as you are watching MotoGP, you will often see the Cinzano billboards all over the track - this agreement is why. However, Cinzano will be replaced with new leading brand Aperol. Sponsorship is very important in racing and this is good news!
http://tinyurl.com/y8rg7rf
Chris Vermeulen has a tough task ahead of him in the World Superbike Championship; he has to bring Kawasaki back to the podium in that series. Vermeulen has had some up and down times, but he is always a racer's racer and is actually looking forward to the work he has to do in 2010. For more on the monumental season he has in front of him, take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yj4upac
British racers Bradley Smith and Scott Redding are on their way to Barcelona for the World Championship practice. Redding is taking his first turn aboard his new Marc VDS Moto2 machine and Smith is returning to the 125cc machine from Bancaja Aprilia. These are the first tests of the season for those classes and it should provide some great information for riders, teams and fans alike!
http://tinyurl.com/yhr42ku
Tuesday Morning Moto News - Phillip Island, Leon Camier & Rossi's B-Day
Coming up during 26 - 28 February 2010 at Phillip Island will be the big show - Australian and World Superbike Championship races. That is 13 races over three days with plenty of local talent out to prove themselves against the best in both Australia and the world. Get your preview after the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yh5uxb5
Road Racer X managed to sit down with WSBK Aprilia man Leon Camier and ask him some questions on the upcoming season. Camier is favored to do very well in the series in 2010 - he is a BSB Champion and he is on one of the fastest bikes in the paddock - plus he has Max Biaggi as a teammate. So, what does he think so far? Well, take the link and you will learn!
http://tinyurl.com/yhp2qq4
That's right, today is Valentino Rossi's birthday! He turns the ripe old age of 31. It is hard to believe that he accomplished so much in his first 30 years on this planet - and we were there with him for nearly half that time. Get an idea of just how great Rossi is - as a racer, anyway - by taking the link. Happy Birthday Rossi!
http://tinyurl.com/ycfvdzb
MORE Evening Moto News - Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast
Motorcycling Australia is opening a huge event this coming weekend - and it should have been here earlier. It is called the Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast and there will be nearly every marque sold Down Under with the 2010 models of both the two-wheeled transport and the PWC variety. There will be some rather good show-only deals and you may find a solid deal on show tickets as well - check with your local Oz dealer. For more information, please take the link...
http://tinyurl.com/yc8c3s5
Monday NIgth Moto News - CCS Florida & Danny Eslick
The 2010 CCS Florida started this season at Homestead-Miami Speedway last weekend. The three big winners were Jeff Wood, Andres Londono and Kevin Mendez. The racing started off with a couple of nasty red flag events, but it did get underway and all else went well. For all the details, you need to take the link; there really is a great deal of information located there.
http://tinyurl.com/yzl7fw7
Danny Eslick will be riding a Team M4 Suzuki GSX-R600 in the 2010 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike Championship, defending his title in the inaugural season. Most of this we already knew, but it is a good round-up, so take the link and enjoy.
http://tinyurl.com/yb4opw4
Monday Evening Moto News - Isle of Man TT Bookend Events
The usual pre- and post-TT events have been announced from the Isle of Man. As usual, the Pre-TT Classic will be held on 28, 29 & 31 May 2010 at the Billown circuit. After the TT will be the Post-TT Road Races; that is held 12 June 2010. Also, right after the Pre-TT will be the Open Air Concours d'Elegance Racing Machines in Castletown Square, which is never to be missed if you are there and like to look upon vintage machines. There is much more information on this, so take the link and take it all in...
http://tinyurl.com/ykpbban
More Afternoon Moto News - Brutale 1090RR Review & New Norton Races!
The new MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR is something to behold - lovely, powerful, and very well-made. Well, how does it perform on the street? Well, let's just say that the Brutale sets the standard in the naked bike segment as it always has. The author here finds it slightly less perfect than the Streetfighter, but at least the Brutale has well-sorted suspension right off the production line and it is much more reliable than the Ducati...and that is borne out through the large number of warranty work on the new Streetfighter. Go MV and you will never regret it!
http://tinyurl.com/ycvesfx
The 'new' Norton is going racing, finally! Chris Walker, of British and World Superbike series and new Sales Manager for Norton, will be taking the Commando 961 to the Thundersprint event. That's right, no VIP and full access to Walker and the beautiful race bike from the new Norton shop - thanks, of course, to Kenny Dreer. Really fantastic news!
http://tinyurl.com/ydslhmv
PR: MV Agusta on Tour - Book Your Turn Now!
MV ON TOUR 2010
Varese, February 15th, 2010 – After the success of Brutale on Tour 2009, we introduce MV on Tour, a travelling demonstration which will lead the brand new Brutale motorcycles to visit the best European cities and the F4 motorcycles on the best circuits.
18th-21st February Utrecth - Brutale on tour
25th February Rockingham - F4 on tour
26th e 28th February Rockingham - Brutale on tour
6th e 7th March Paris - Brutale on tour
13th and 14th March Villefranche Sur Saône - Brutale on tour
17th March Le Luc - F4 on tour
20th and 21st March Madrid - Brutale on tour
26th March Misano - F4 on tour + Brutale on tour
1st April Franciacorta - F4 on tour + brutale on tour
9th April Racalmuto - F4 on tour
10th and 11th April Catania - Brutale on tour
17th and 18th April Naples - Brutale on tour
24th and 25th April Rome - Brutale on tour
27th April Vallelunga - F4 on tour
1st and 2nd May Florence - Brutale on tour
8th and 9th May Bologna - Brutale on tour
14th May Adria - F4 on tour + Brutale on tour
18th May Hockenheim - F4 on tour
22nd and 23rd May Varese - Brutale on tour
23rd May Motorland (Alcañiz) - F4 on tour
29th and 30th May Nürburgring - Brutale on tour
5th and 6th June Zurich - Brutale on tour
12th and 13th June Milan - Brutale on Tour
11th July Cascina Costa (VA) - Brutale on tour to coincide with MV Agusta Revival
Monday Afternoon Moto News - Luca Scassa & Guy Martin
Italian rider Luca Scassa has now joined with the Supersonic Ducati team to ride in his second year of the World Superbike Championship. Scassa rode for Kawasaki in 2009 WSBK, but only pulled in a 29th overall position. Given his ability with Italian machines (he has raced for MV Agusta previously), he should be able to improve on his 2009 numbers in 2010!
http://tinyurl.com/yldu6m8
Guy Martin and Wilson-Craig-Racing have signed on to use LeoVince racing exhausts for their assault on the various 'real roads' and other races they will compete in during 2010. The Isle of Man TT, though, is probably Martin's direct concern and the LeoVince bits they used in 2009 did very well for the team. As is well-known, Martin is a very hands-on type of guy, so this decision is most certainly one which he approves of.
http://tinyurl.com/yzda38g
More Morning Moto News - NZ Sidecar, Season Begins & Josh Elliott
Over in the New Zealand Grand Prix series - one which I know little about, mind you - sidecar racer Mike Zachan and his partner Paul Humphrey are eying their third title in this racing season. They have already locked up the NZ North Island title and are on the way to taking the title in the GP series. They are short of funds and hoping that their performance will secure them some more sponsorship. Have a read and help out if you are able!
http://tinyurl.com/ya96ygq
In the U.K. it is getting close to riding season again. It will all start of at the beginning of the BSB season - or the first break of warm and relatively sunny days. This article gives you some ideas of how you Limeys can take advantage of the wonderful motorcycle racing around your area...and the fantastic tracks, too. Take the link and get your ideas planned.
http://tinyurl.com/yay4894
Josh Elliott, a very young and already accomplished racer has been given the chance to run in the World Superstock 600 class this season. That is an amazing chance for a guy who - at 14 years old - raced in the German IDM series and became the youngest rider to ever land on the podium there...this guy has a great future! He will ride with Racedays Honda.
http://tinyurl.com/y9gonm6
More Morning Moto News - Dávid Juhász, BMW & Husqvarna & Worx Crescent Suzuki
Dávid Juhász, from Hungary and only 17 years old, will be joining the MAR Kawasaki outfit in the 2010 British Superbike Championship. He will be the youngest rider on the Superbike grid, but he already has a Hungarian Superbike Championship to his credit. So, you can expect him to be a little green, but he should adapt quickly.
http://tinyurl.com/yhonkgw
BMW and their new purchase Husqvarna are using their new combined company to pursue synergistic racing teams. In that vein, BMW Motorrad is entering the E2 class of the FIM Enduro World Championship as the BMW Husqvarna Motorsport. This arrangement will give them access to the right technology, experience and people to succeed in their venture.
http://tinyurl.com/yhezwg3
Worx Crescent Suzuki has been at Portimao in Portugal doing some shake-down testing with their 2010 British Superbike Championship team. Riders Tommy Hill and Yukio Kagayama managed to complete some very important testing and get the information they were seeking ahead of the season start. They needed to time and it will go a long way to getting their team ready for 2010.
http://tinyurl.com/yg8ns6j
Monday Morning Moto News - Suzuki Alstare, Kenny Noyes & Broc Parkes
Alstare Suzuki has also unveiled their 2010 World Superbike livery. Riders Leon Haslam and Sylvain Guintoli have a pair of very sweet looking Suzuki GSX-R1000 Superbikes with which to tackle the World Championship. At least they will look good doing so...
http://tinyurl.com/yf7yvc2
American Kenny Noyes is the only American in the Moto2 series in 2010, but that is not a problem for the Spanish-born rider. He is riding on the Antonio Banderas Jack and Jones team, a new partnership for the Championship. His partner in crime is Joan Olive - and they are both ready to start racing!
http://tinyurl.com/yh6s9w8
After hearing that Jorge Lorenzo will be missing the next MotoGP test, and that Hayden is having surgery on his arm - but will still make the test - now we get news that in World Superbike, Australian Broc Parkes has broken his leg in a training accident. He will miss the opener in his home nation and could be out for as long as six weeks. That's not a good way to start a season...
http://tinyurl.com/yjougpz
This Must be Posted - The Motorcycle From HELL!
Just take the link and watch the video - it's hilarious! Just make sure you don't accept rides from riders with no muscles!
http://tinyurl.com/yzctfvr
Sunday Afternoon Moto News - Anaheim III Supercross
The third and final AMA Supercross race in Anaheim, California, went off yesterday and may have changed a few things. First of all Kawasaki's Ryan Villopoto took the victory in a convincing way by leading the entire race. Second place was Yamaha man Josh Hill. In the Western Lites class, Honda-mounted Trey Canard proved himself worthy by taking the victory and moving into second place overall. In the premier class, Suzuki's Ryan Dungey has now welcomed another rider into a tie for first place - and that would be Josh Hill. For a cool video wrap-up and more information, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/y92awd2
More Morning Moto News - Race 4 Heroes & Troy Herfoss
The Race 4 Heroes will have drivers and riders from all over British motorsport, including some celebrities as well, get together and race in a kart endurance event at Daytona kart circuit (in Milton Keynes) on 27 February 2010. All of the money raised will go to Help for Heroes, a veteran's charity in the U.K. For more information, take the link...and help out a soldier as well!
http://tinyurl.com/y94q5j5
Troy Herfoss, a competitor in the Australian Supersport Championship, has taken the time to talk about the run-up to the first race of the 2010 ASBK season. He has been testing and has been quite pleased with what he has in his pit. Given the number of other racers in that class who have moved up to the Superbike or Superstock classes, Herfoss is the favorite in this year's Supersport series. For all the details and the interesting side notes, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yczgquu
Sunday Morning Moto News - Indy Dealer Expo & MIC Meeting
At Indianapolis, Indiana, this weekend, the 2010 Dealer Expo has attracted a decent crowd of enthusiasts for this year's show - but the overall number of participants is way down. On day 1 at the show, Malcolm Smith was in attendance at the Husqvarna (only marque in attendance this year) booth, Ben Spies was signing autographs and Danny Eslick was wondering around a looking at the new bits and bobs. Today will have a host of other announcements and special events; so, get there if you can!
http://tinyurl.com/ylqszta
http://tinyurl.com/y94epfy
Day 2 of the Dealer Expo: http://tinyurl.com/ye6quow
The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) also held their annual members-only meeting in Indianapolis in conjunction with the Dealer Expo. Their main topic was the economic recession and its effects on the industry. Of course, there was some good news, but there are also still plenty of businesses in our industry which are struggling. They even set up a booth at the Expo where members, exhibitors and dealers can stop by and get some information or voice their own concerns. For more, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yeuce9l
Saturday Afternoon Moto News - Kawasaki Lubricants & Malcolm Smith (not with each other...)
Kawasaki Motors of the USA is releasing a new line of powersports oils. Kawasaki Performance Oils will be sold in synthetic, semi-synthetic and mineral based in multiple grades for motorcycles - and, they will have oils for ATV/UTV and PWC uses. They have added to and improved the old line-up as well as changed the packaging. Head to your local Kawasaki dealer to learn more.
http://tinyurl.com/yj9n2jg
The AMA has announced that Motorcycle Hall of Famer Malcolm Smith will serve as Grand Marshal at this coming 9 - 11 July's 2010 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days in Lexington, Ohio. That's a lot to take in. Yes, Malcolm Smith was chosen since Husqvarna - finally returning to full sales support in the US - is the event's Marque of the Year for 2010. All worth a visit...and a demo ride on a Husky!
http://tinyurl.com/yjy9elo
More Morning Moto News - Tom Tunstall, BSB Evo Debate & James Toseland
Tom Tunstall is ready for the assault on the 2010 British Superbike Championship. He remains with his 2009 team - Doodson Motorsport - and will continue to ride a Honda Fireblade (CBR1000RR). Tunstall did rather well last season and hopes to build on that success with the team he owns and rides for. Look out BSB, Tunstall is coming back!
http://tinyurl.com/yh5tpwc
The idea of the newly created BSB Evo class is to take Superstock engines, put them into Superbike frames and then use a spec-ECU. The idea is to keep costs down. However, Jack Valentine of the Worx Suzuki squad has said that it is cheaper to use some of the aftermarket products which the teams now use in the BSB main grid. This is likely accurate as the factory does charge a premium when you compare it against the aftermarket expenses...There is much more to this story and you would do well to have a read of it. The British Superbike rules may change even more for 2011...
http://tinyurl.com/ylj7g9g
Former MotoGP man and World Superbike Champion James Toseland will be the guest of honor at the 2010 Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators annual dinner on Friday 12th March at the Hilton Hotel, Douglas on the Isle of Man. Toseland will even entertain everyone on the keyboard as well as discuss certain international tax issues. Not what I would call a wild event, but it should be enjoyable nevertheless.
http://tinyurl.com/ycjtwuu
More Morning Moto News - 2010 Aprilia Mana 850 GT & KTM IDM Contingent
Saturday Morning Moto News - MV Agusta F4, Carmelo Ezpeleta & Silverstone
At least one author has now had a chance to throw a leg over the new 2010 MV Agusta F4 - and he found it a brilliant ride! Of course, as it is an MV, but he also said that he feels the bike has developed a more linear character and will be easier to ride by those with less experience for a change. Have a read...
http://tinyurl.com/ydj6o4m
Dorna's top man, Carmelo Ezpeleta has again made the news cycle. This time it is all about Valentino Rossi and his time with Ferrari. Ezpeleta states that the Formula 1 interest in Rossi can only be good for the MotoGP Championship. He has a point as it will most certainly bring a few more fans into the series, not to mention some journalistic attention as well...
http://tinyurl.com/yfzrwee
The head of the circuit-owning British Racing Drivers' Club has said that the new track layout at Silverstone is boring for Formula 1. Silverstone re-designed some of the track for the arrival of MotoGP this year, and some are quite happy with it. However, the consensus in the F1 world is saying a bit different...
http://tinyurl.com/yjj9pqm
Friday Night Moto News - British Superbike Championship Rule Changes...
The rule changes put in place for the 2010 running of the British Superbike Championship are quite popular with the team managers and other principals, but the fans dislike them. In fact, some 80% of crash.net voters wished them to remain the same. Well, people are always afraid of change, but there is good reason to wonder how this 'double' system will alter the scoring continuity with the past. It could be worse, it could lead to rather strange results at the end of the season...but, it might just make it more fun to watch and race.
http://tinyurl.com/yhsvcgg
More Evening Moto News - Motorcycling Victoria, Davi Millsaps & Brembo
Motorcycling Victoria has just opened their new digs today in the city of Port Melbourne. The Port Phillip Mayor, Cr. Frank O’Connor, was even on hand at the opening. It is an exciting time for the group as they will now have extra space from which to expand their services and capabilities. Nice to see a little more positive news once in a while...
http://tinyurl.com/yj83xk6
Davi Millsaps had apparently been unknowingly taking a supplement with Creatine in it (it is NOT a banned substance in this or many other sports). This caused the Honda rider some problems with his racing. Now that he is no longer using it he is doing much better. This could lead to a better AMA Supercross season...with so many injured...we will see...
http://tinyurl.com/yhpe4xs
Brembo has announced some serious upgrades to some existing products and some ten new models of motorcycle products. Their new "T-Drive" disc system is sure to impress. Brembo will certainly change some concepts in motorcycle braking - they even have a very cool brake clamp for naked bikes which includes a mount for mirrors and Ducati compatibility. Take the link and be impressed!
http://tinyurl.com/ygvrryz
Friday Evening Moto News - Bikesafe London / MCN London Motorcycle Show
Making a welcome appearance at the MCN London Motorcycle Show this weekend at the Excel Center in London were the representatives of Bikesafe London. The sessions are designed to stress motorcycle safety through skills development, training and good old experience... and it reduces their insurance costs as well. Charley Boorman and Chris Walker were among the many rather interesting people who were at the show as well. If any more decent reports come through, they will be here...and there are previous entries as well.
http://tinyurl.com/yjgk2s3
Kenya's 2010 Africa Concours d'Elegance Announced
The AccessKenya Group, a successful local public IT company, has announced that it will again support the 2010 Africa Concours d'Elegance. It will be held on 26 September 2010 at the Nairobi Racecourse in - where else? - Nairboi, Kenya. The Alfa Romeo Owners Club will be hosting the 40th Concours d' Elegance and will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the auto manufacturer (founded 1910). Vehicles will be entered into one of 12 automobile or eight motorcycle classes. The event is heavily attended, so make your plans early and get your accommodations arranged. Oh, and don't forget to bring your sunglasses...
http://tinyurl.com/y8hdz4s
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Trey Canard & AMA Arenacross
On the Honda AMA Supercross team, GEICO Powersports Honda West Series Lites rider Trey Canard will fill in for Honda Red Bull Racing’s Andrew Short at select Supercross races. Short was injured at the San Diego round and will be out for at least six weeks. So, Canard's experience and close ties to the team allowed him to take the available seat on the CRF450R. So many injuries now...Let's wish Canard Good Luck!
http://tinyurl.com/y8wbck5
Tyler Bowers has six victories in eight races, with five of them consecutive, in the 2010 AMA Arenacross series. His Kawasaki has been rock solid through the five rounds so far (some are double-headers) and will be in fine shape for the next round in Youngstown, Ohio, in Covellie Centre. Barrows is the man to beat in the premier class, but there are three local guys who will give him a very hard time at this round...
http://tinyurl.com/y879fuj
MORE Afternoon Moto News - Yamaha Celebrates & Bonhams Vintage European Auction
Yamaha Motor Company has released some videos to celebrate their 2009 racing season. Champions Ben Spies, Cal Crutchlow, Tony Cairoli and James Stewart and their race machines are featured in these highlight videos from last season. Yamaha has a way with these things and they are well worth watching.
http://tinyurl.com/yarmqy2
At the Bonhams sale of An Important European Collection of Pioneer, Vintage and Collectors’ Motorcycles at the RAF Museum, Hendon on 27 February 2010, a selection of small and some strange European motorcycles will be auctioned. They will have everything there from a three-seater 1937 Böhmerland 603cc Langtouren all the way to a "penny farthing" - which is a converted bicycle. For more information, please take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yhy473o
More Afternoon Moto News - Yamaha Slashes 1000 Jobs & Ducshop Racing
Yamaha Motor Company is having to take further cuts to their workforce due to their continuing financial woes - due to the worldwide recession. These lay-offs actually include the earlier announcement of 800 job cuts in Japan, but they are also taking 200 more away from their foreign operations. Yamaha will also close 12 parts factories in Shizuoka prefecture. Let's hope that their sales pick up this year and they can hire back some of the people they are losing now.
http://tinyurl.com/yevjnbm
Ducshop Racing will be fielding two Ducati 848 motorcycles in the 2010 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike class. Their two riders will be Jake Holden and Ducati test rider Dario Marchetti. Of course, they are using many products from their own catalog to improve the bikes, but the rules only allow so much. They will be in Daytona for the Daytona 200 race weekend and will be participating in all race activities.
http://tinyurl.com/ykfl2zc
Friday Afternoon Moto News - Sterilgarda Yamaha WSBK & Ace Cafe Iron Butt
World Superbike Championship team Sterilgarda Yamaha has unveiled their livery for the 2010 season. Riders James Toseland and Cal Crutchlow were also present at the event and took time to answer questions, a very polite thing to do. There are many changes to their 2010 machines, including more horsepower, less weight, different shaped fuel tank and many more. For all that information, take the link.
http://tinyurl.com/ya62q2a
As part of the Ally Pally show, put together by the folks at Ace Cafe London, Danny John-Jules and his mate Graham Hoskins will be leaving from the show location at noon on 27 February 2010 to take a 7,000 mile trip around the Mediterranean to raise money for BBC TV's "Sport Relief" charity. Of course, the show has plenty else to attract you, but this ride is certainly - given the path they will take - an Iron Butt event!
http://tinyurl.com/ybk322z
They have chosen the Honda Transalp for the ride: http://tinyurl.com/ybfemcq
MORE Morning Moto News - Ezpeleta and Changi & Haiti Bike Wash
MotoGP boss Carmelo Ezpeleta is getting a bit impatient. See, the Changi Motorsports Hub is far behind schedule and should be much further along than it is now. The idea is to bring MotoGP to Singapore for the first time, but they cannot do that if there are no facilities there for them to use. Ezpeleta doesn't even want to talk about it these days as he has been promised its construction for over two years now and there is nothign to show for it...now he wants to push it to get done!
http://tinyurl.com/yh4ot68
Last weekend for our Bike Wash Fundraiser for Haiti. Join us this weekend, February 13-14, as Pro Italia will be holding our final bike wash to raise money for the Maison Fortune Orphanage Foundation in Haiti. We will wash your bike for a suggested donation $35, with all proceeds going to the Maison Fortune Orphanage Foundation. In addition we will give $5 to this worthy charity every time you buy a Pro Italia T-shirt, and $10 for every Pro Italia sweatshirt, or jacket. Please join us for a clean bike, good fun and, most importantly, a chance to help children.
Head on over: http://www.proitalia.com/
More Morning Moto News - Geoff May, Jorge Lorenzo & Nicky Hayden
Geoff may has made his way onto the entry list at the Daytona 200 for 2010. May has formed Geoff May Racing with which to compete in the AMA Pro Racing series this year. It is a full privateer effort, as you can see, and he will run his own Suzuki GSX-R600 in the Daytona SportBike Championship. His last position was as a rider for the Jordan Motorsports team, which dumped him at the end of last season.
http://tinyurl.com/ylfkh2d
Jorge Loranzo, Fiat Yamaha MotoGP rider, will miss the next big MotoGP test due to an injury he sustained while training on a motocross bike. He fell while riding the off-road machine on a course near Barcelona and fractured his hand in the process. Lorenzo is all patched up now, but he must wear something to protect his hand for the next four to six weeks.
http://tinyurl.com/yg77scz
Nicky Hayden recently had to have surgery on his arm to remove some scar tissue from a previous surgical procedure. He did this right after the Sepang MotoGP test, but his Ducati team is saying that he will be perfectly fit to ride in the next test at the end of this month. That's very good news as Hayden really needs any seat time he can get to dial that Desmosedici in to his liking.
http://tinyurl.com/ygrrcv7