Posts
The "Long Way Down" photos were created (matted and framed) and displayed at the 2008 Legend of the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance near San Francisco, California. They toured the world as they raised awareness and money for UNICEF. I saw the exhibit at the Laguna Seca USGP in 2008 - they were good. Well, they will now be auctioned off on eBay - they are all being auctioned together. Good luck!
http://tinyurl.com/yzyx9cp
Photos from "Long Way Down" to Be Auctioned for UNICEF
First Look: 2010 KYMCO Scooter and ATV Line - No Photos, Though
It is a nice list of the new machines from our friends in Taiwan, KYMCO. They will be offering 17 scooters and 11 ATV models in the US. All of their machines are competent, and they are improving them all the time. If you have a dealer near you, check them out. You never know...the Japanese brands were once considered cheap and unreliable, in case you have forgotten. (You may have forgotten this event as it happened over a month ago.)
http://tinyurl.com/yetknml
Erik Buell Not Only Lives, He Thrives
Buell is now announcing that Erik Buell Racing will be providing race-spec 1125R for DMG / AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike and 1125RR for racing in American Superbike. Such good news to know he is doing what he loves again. I hope it all works well for him...it will not be easy, but he is used to that. There will also be a Euro-spec 1190RR - not sure for what series, exactly, but it may fit in many.
http://tinyurl.com/yzupe28
KTM Will Join in Australian Superbike Championship in 2010
Great news! KTM is now going to take their RC8R and try to take on the Australian Superbike Championship next year. That is fantastic news, especially for their new team, Evolution Sports Group (ESG). Shannon Johnson will be their points getter...
http://tinyurl.com/yjrcjz2
http://tinyurl.com/ykof2s8
Australian Historic Series Champion Is Rookie Road Racer
Beau Beaton was not even road racing just 12 short months ago and now he is champion of the Australian Historic Series...amazing. He was asked to come and ride an Irving Vincent for Horner Brothers - an amazing read. Take the link...
http://tinyurl.com/yavu9wh
Honda Europe Announces Honda Racing Xtreme Academy
It could be a step on the way to riding in Honda Racing’s World Championship Xtreme programme in MX1, MX2, Enduro
and even the Dakar Rally. An amazing opportunity for any young European. Go to your local Honda dealer - as championships will be national - or head over the Honda Europe' s racing website - after the link.
http://tinyurl.com/yfm3ov2
Buy A Ducati in the UK and Get Ducati Corse Gear Free + More!
It is that simple; if you purchase a Ducati 848, 1098 or 1198, you get: Ducati Corse leathers, Arai Chaser helmet with Ducati Corse graphics, Ducati Corse gloves, Puma Desmo V2 boots, Ducati back protector. If you buy a 1098 or 1198, you also receive a FULL-SERVICE Ducati Track Day and a ticket to a World Superbike round - TBD. Amazing! What's holding you back now?
http://tinyurl.com/yjozlrk
Former GP Racer and South African Champion Erroll Cowan Dies
Sad news out of South Africa - Erroll Cowan has passed away quietly at home. He had been fighting a brain tumor- nasty business, that. He was a true racer's racer and was well-liked by everyone who met him. He own the South African Championship many times and raced in the Grand Prix circuit in the 1960's and 1970's. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
http://tinyurl.com/ylqyjwu
The Perfect Gift - A Valentino Rossi Bedroom
No, not Rossi in your bedroom - at least not the man himself - but you can have a bedroom partially designed by him - at least he signed off on it. The Italian furniture company Berloni have released it just in time for the Holiday Season. Just take a look - at least think about it.
Read This! The Ins and Outs of the Motorcycle Industry - Mostly Europe
The author calls it Euro Gossip, but he does not limit himself there. This is a very good edition and you should NOT miss it. The really cool helmet tech is enough to keep you interested - both of which I have reported here before. Look deeply into the ThermaHelm and the cool helmet covering from Lazer in Belgium - it could be a very important safety feature on ALL helmets someday. Don't miss Rieju's new model. Just read this!
http://tinyurl.com/ykszdms
Chuck Palmgren - AMA Hallf of Fame Inductee Bio
Palmgren will be inducted over this coming weekend to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. This keeps coming up when I look around for news, so I am giving in and posting it here as well. The man is incredible - no doubt about that - but I was hoping to pick up a few more bios before announcing it here. Take the link and learn something of motorcycle history.
http://tinyurl.com/yl93ea8
Kawasaki Initiates Recall of 2009 - 2010 Ninja 250R
Kawasaki is recalling 259 model year 2009 and 2010 Ninja 250R bikes for an oil leak which oculd put oil on the rear tire of the motorcycle in operation - not a good thing. Traction is of utmost importance for a vehicle with only two wheels on the ground. So, if you own one - or know someone who does - get it fixed ASAP>
http://tinyurl.com/ydvukr8
Ben Wilson Is Looking for the BSB Championship with Gearlink Kawasaki
Well, considering how well he did at the end of last season in the British Superbike Championship - first is not very far from fourth, and Wilson knows that. Watch out, here comes Team Green!
http://tinyurl.com/y8wqe98
The Cycle World International Motorcycle Show Line-up
So, this is actually only a list of the major manufacturers, and it does not include the custom shops, speed shops, accessories vendors, apparel vendors...etc. But, you will notice that BMW and Victory are only at select venues - and there are many names missing from this year's list. Have a look...hopefully you will be attending the Long Beach edition.
http://tinyurl.com/ye2qs7k
Simply - Warthog Racing Needs Your Help
I figure that posting this somewhere else may actually help this team. They really need sponsorship. Warthog Racing and they race in Motocross/Supercross around the US and help several up and coming racers get to the big league. If you know someone who can help by sponsoring them in some form or fashion, take the link and get in touch.
http://tinyurl.com/ydhthsp
More Information About Kawasaki's 2010 Versys
This actually comes courtesy of MCN (UK). Kawasaki USA has now released more photos and some technical specifications of the 2010 Versys. It has been updated in some significant ways, so you would do yourself right by taking the link to see more of this very cool motorcycle.
RetroSBK Custom 2010 Ducati Streetfighter
It's a slick machine to begin with, but when breathed heavily on by the folks at RetroSBK it becomes so much better. It does seem like that with many things in life - you keep doing them and then, one day, someone shows you something different and it is just better. That is what has happened here - the suspension on this machine is finely tuned - much better than how it comes from the factory - and the look has been streamlined a bit, with some great color accents. They call her Affari Seri...
First Look: 2010 Victory Cory Ness Signature Series Jackpot
If you are like me - and you are probably not - you will like Victory. It is a nice counter-point to Harley-Davidson. At least Victory takes to new designs and better performance much quicker than the Motor Company. And, of course, you get more bike for your buck with them as well. They did have some horrendous issues early on in their history, but a great deal of that has been fixed and made so much better. You really owe it to yourself to go and have a look at this sweet cruising machine, the 2010 Cory Ness Signature Jackpot.
First Ride: 2010 Husqvarna TE310
That's right, another Husky is up for a riding test. There is good reason, though, for this one especially. It is the TE310 which was launched in 2009 and did very, very well for the Husky. It was well-loved among those who rode it or bought it and the 2010 model will probably be no different - it is an exciting ride. It is not going to be a racer, but it will treat you very well in the woods or while commuting...
New Product: Antique Motorcycle Club of America 2010 Calendar
Yes, it is available now! For only US$12 you get 12 months worth of lovely photographs of historic motorcycles from all over the world - such as a 1913 Flying Merkel board-tracker and a 1909 Reliance from New York and a French-built 1897 De Dion Bouton. Take the link and have a look - and, if you need a calendar, place your order soon!
http://tinyurl.com/ycaxtht
Sylvain Guintoli Wants World Superbike Championship in 2010
Guintoli raced in British Superbike last season, but in 2010 he will be riding the Suzuki Alstare GSX-R1000. You can say that he moves around a bit, but he is always ready to race. Now, given his new team and his new ride, he wants to win it all next year!
http://tinyurl.com/ykg3g37
Larry Pegram Will Race in 2010 With or Without Ducati's Support
Ducati North America is still talking with Pegram about the 2010 season, but nothing has been confirmed yet. The interesting aspect of this is that he has most all of the sponsors he had in 2009, but Ducati will still not guarantee him support. No matter what, though, Pegram will line up on the starting grid at Daytona in March 2010.
http://tinyurl.com/yk2n8eu
Bradley Smith Is a Force to Watch in 2010 125GP
Smith was runner-up in 2009. He now knows all of the tracks, has the experience, has the skills and has the drive to be a champion in the 125c.c. World Championship. There were some offers for him to move into the new Moto2 series, but he remains in 125. One reason could be that the Moto2 series is just starting out and it would be better for him to stay with a known quantity. He is only 18, so he has plenty of time to progress through the classes to his goal in MotoGP.
http://tinyurl.com/yfcftsu
Helmet Review: Vemar VSRE Diadem - also On Sale!
The Italian motorcycle helmet manufacturer Vemar makes some good quality helmets, and you can see their work on the heads of many top racers in the world, including Andrea Dovizioso. The VRSE Diadem is a relative newcomer to the line-up, but it is a solid and useful helmet. The only problem you may have is fit - it is designed for round headed people...take the link and decide for yourself.
(It is on sale for only US$199 - that is $150 off MSRP.)
Schwantz School Announces 2010 School Schedule
Based at the lovely Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, the Schwatntz School is one of the better motorcycle riding schools on the planet. They now have their dates for the 2010 season (including two schools at Indianapolis Motor Speedway), so take the link and see if you can attend Kevin Schwantz's riding classes...
http://tinyurl.com/y8nb7d3
James Toseland Did NOT Fail in MotoGP
At least, that is what Toseland believes. Of course, I think that many would agree as he was far from the worst performing rider in the 2009 MotoGP Championship (though, in 2009 he was 13 points behind his 2008 total). It was that Yamaha wanted to launch Spies into the series given his recent performances. However, Toseland does have unfinished business in the series and he hopes to get back there very soon!
http://tinyurl.com/ykea7nn
Rossi Fears Engine Restrictions Will Hurt MotoGP
Rossi has a point here - no one in a prototype series wants to limit power to provide for durability. Next year, in the MotoGP series, only six engines will be allowed to be used for the entire 2010 season. Rossi is more fearful that the fans will suffer because no one will be able to push their motorcycles to the very limit of what they can do...as I said, he has a good point and someone should listen...
http://tinyurl.com/y9pemo3
Rossi was also quoted as supporting the move to 1000c.c. machines in MotoGP - and removal of 70% of the electronics should also be mandated. He says - again, rightly so - that the riders should be the focus of MotoGP racing.
http://tinyurl.com/ycthmgy
First Look: 2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 125 and 200i.e.
This is mostly from the press releases from Aprilia, but you get the idea of their Scarabeo scooters rather well from what is written. The Scarabeo is a fun around-town mount and it can carry a good amount of 'stuff' around with you or for you. These machines also ride like scooter sportbikes - they handle very well and perform great for scooters. But, one thing no one can disagree with - at least IMHO - they are lovely looking machines...
Pirelli Had a Good Year in Racing WSBK and World Endurance
Pirelli is the single source of tires for the World Superbike Championship - and has been for six years now - and they had a good 2009 season. In World Endurance, they are just one of a few suppliers to the series, but all five Pirelli teams ended the season in the top 10 in 2009. So, a good year for the tire-maker and the racers who use their product...
http://tinyurl.com/ydrucvg
New Bournemouth Kawasaki Team Signs Two Riders for 2010
Newly-started Bournemouth Kawasaki has signed two rider to compete for the in the BSB Superstock 1000 and BSB Superstock 600 series in 2010. James Hillier and Luke Stapleford were chosen to race in those classes, respectively, and Hillier will also ride some 'real roads' races during the season. Hard to believe that this economy is still driving so many race teams...
http://tinyurl.com/yleu5qy
BMW Now Poised to Add Satellite WSBK Team
It seems that this is official, though it has only come from a single source. BMW will also have a satellite team to join their factory supported team in the World Superbike Championship. German team Reitwagen Racing will run the team with riders expected to be Austrian Roland Resch and an as yet un-named second. BMW is spreading itself everywhere in racing now...
http://tinyurl.com/yz8t7w3
It is now official, but it does seem that Reitwagen will only have the budget for one rider, but they will still be a threat in WSBK with that S1000RR.
http://tinyurl.com/ygrp5f9
New Jersey Motorsports Park Announces 2010 Schedule
New England now has one track reporting what will be happening there in 2010. Of course, the DMG/AMA Pro races there 3 - 5 September 2010, but what else is going on? Well, take the link and find out for yourself!
http://tinyurl.com/yjtuvqq
International Women Riders Congress and Festival to Be Held in Canada
The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) has announced they will be hosting this meet in Huntsville, Ontario, at the Deerhurst Resort from 11 to 15 August 2010. This came about after some representatives from the MCC and their Women Riders Council (WRC) met with AMA personnel at the International Women in Motorcycling Conference in Colorado. So many Canadians traveled to that event that the MCC figured having a similar event in Canada - not a bad idea, eh?
http://tinyurl.com/yf4gcku
http://tinyurl.com/yzfqukk
First Ride: 2010 Ducati Monster 1100S
This is the first road test of the new for 2010 Ducati Monster 1100S - the uprated model of the Monster 1100. As you would expect, the author of the article loved the motorcycle from Bologna. It seems that the 1100S would be a good replacement if you are not looking for the hard-core edge of the Streetfighter, and you want the perfect dual-personality commuter machine.
Yamaha UK Launches Yamaha Winter Health Check Plus
It's a very good idea which would be nice to see in many other nations, but Yamaha U.K. only goes as far as the British Isles. The Yamaha Winter Health Check Plus will run from 7 December 2009 until 20 February 2010 at participating Yamaha dealers in the U.K. For only £79 (inc VAT) you get a 30-point Winter Check and a new oil filter and oil change - that's a good deal and will help with your peace of mind, too.
http://tinyurl.com/yk4cnhl
PR: An Adventure Tour of the Sub-Continent - India!
There are several annual motorcycle tours which are orchestrated by various companies with help from the various Indian governments. Just have a look at the tours themselves and see if one or more of them sparks your interest of such a trip. It would truly be an adventure of a lifetime and a ride like no other!
http://tinyurl.com/yg55scv
This Could Be the Head for the MV Agusta "F3"
Though we are not even sure that MV will call the new 675c.c. triple the F3, we do know that they have been testing something around Northern Italy for some time. Apparently, at the linked site, someone with a MV Agusta e-mail address dropped a photo in their comments which looks like it could be the cylinder head for the new 675 due to hit the market in 2011...maybe. (One thing to notice in the photo - I do not see that the valve train will be a radial setup like the other MV Agustas have.)
NOTE: This was a false lead; it is not the new 675 triple head.
MCN (UK) Bike of the Year Announced - 2009 Yamaha YZF-R1
That's right, after looking at all of the evidence - race victories, new technology, how well the bike performs against its peers - the expert panel of judges announced the 2009 Yamaha YZF-R1 is the MCN Bike of the Year. It was also awarded Best Sportsbike over 601c.c. from the same panel. Yamaha took a risk by producing the 'crossplane' crankshaft and it really paid off - if you have not heard one or ridden one, you owe it to yourself to get out and try the R1 - you will be impressed.
http://tinyurl.com/ylnz2o9
GNS Racing to Join British Supersport Championship in 2010
The team is run by former Centurion Racing co-owner Gary Stubbington and will put two racers on specially prepared CBR600RRs. The first rider announced is Paul Jordan, who was a 125 British Championship front-runner in the past. The second rider will be announced soon. Always nice to have more teams in the paddock!
http://tinyurl.com/yl885da
http://tinyurl.com/yzhocyj
GNS has now announced their second rider - Sam Lowes, current Supersport Cup Champion.
http://tinyurl.com/yfhyvv2
Full Review: 2010 BMW S1000RR
We have seen several first looks of this machine, but only one or two reviews so far have come through - and most are rather short. This review is much more in depth and covers the bike in its native habitat - the track. As was expected, the S1000RR is an amazing machine - full of incredible power, excellent control, and a sweet all-around ride - and this is the first year of production! Take a look and have a read...
Another riding impression from an Australian reviewer and posted on gizmag:
Remember Malaysian Zulfahmi from the Sepang MotoGP Round?
Well, if not, you should really start taking some supplements to help your brain! Mohd Zulfahmi Khairuddin made it to the world stage for the Sepang round of the MotoGP World Championship. He was a wildcard rider in the 125c.c. class and did very well in the race. Now, he may be competing in a local race this coming weekend to improve his skills and maybe help him back to the top of the world!
http://tinyurl.com/ye7bvm6
Valentino Rossi Calls for Limits in MotoGP and More Displacement
That is right, too, Rossi is all for the idea of moving the MotoGP race bikes back to 990c.c. or 1000c.c. to make the racing more challenging and more fun to watch. He states that the 800c.c. bikes are boring - we've heard that from him before. And, he wants to limit computer control of the bikes somewhat to allow the racer's skills to determine who wins - not who has the best electronics package. Makes sense to me...
http://tinyurl.com/yfn9qyh
Ben Spies Cautious About MotoGP Debut
Spies is being realistic about his first season in MotoGP in 2010. He had an excellent test on the YZR-M1, but he knows that the task ahead is not an easy one. He will be riding a different bike in a different series against different competitors on many different tracks. That's a great deal of change for him, but he is a multiple-time champion. So, it is likely he will be able to handle it with class and skill...
http://tinyurl.com/yj7aoeh
Aprilia's Moto2 Team Will Not Race in 2010 - Period!
Well, that is the feeling from Aprilia's Gigi dall'Igna, anyway. Aspar's Jorge Martinez has been trying to meet with Aprilia, but the meeting date has now been pushed back again, so it is less and less likely that he will be able to resurrect the racing plans. Who knows, maybe Martinez can change their minds with some solid sponsorship...maybe...
http://tinyurl.com/yz74lbu
Bad Economy Bites into International Motorcycle Show at Long Beach
It's true, there will be 9% fewer exhibitors due to the sour global economy. Piaggio group will not be there; Kymco, KTM and Buell (obvious) will also not show up for the event. Unfortunately, most of these companies are working to help their dealers and other connected companies to weather this recession, so there is little money to throw at a trade show presently. All understandable, but I hope that next year will be much, much better!
http://tinyurl.com/yh8avts
Australia - MV Agusta Extends Maximum Value Sale on Motorcycle Art
That's right, MV Agusta has extended the time of their Maximum Value sale for Down Under. If you are looking for a new MV Agusta - at least, the 2009 models and before - this is the time to buy one in Australia. Some of the prices have been cut some 20%, so do not miss this!
http://tinyurl.com/yghdvth
Harley-Davidson Employees at York Plant Agree to 7 Year Contract
This has been a long time coming - but, H-D and the union did have to await the decision by H-D on whether they would keep the York, Pennsylvania plant open. Well, they have and now they have - as evidenced by the linked article - also decided to keep their employees. Not a bad thing in this economy - it could be much worse.
http://tinyurl.com/yf43btt
GoldenTyre Becomes Spec Tire for FIM SuperMoto World Championship
All teams in the 2010 FIM SuperMoto World Championship will be riding on GoldenTyre rubber. Not sure if this is something everyone expected or if GoldenTyre has been there since the series went to one-brand control tire rules. In either case, the Italian tire company is well-respected in the industry and should continue to provide great shoes for the bikes in that championship.
http://tinyurl.com/ydmuo3v
Triple R Suzuki Eager to Get to Work in New Zealand Superbike Championships
I do not get to cover the New Zealand Superbike Championships very often, so I thought I would at least post this item on Triple R Suzuki and riders Robbie Bugden and James Smith. They have a strong team and seem to have dominated the young series. 2010 looks to be another year of strength for the team, and it will be interesting to watch...
http://tinyurl.com/y8rnza5
http://tinyurl.com/yz3ptac
Suzuki Celebrates Again: 50 Years in New Zealand
Next year at Wanganui will be a celebration honoring Suzuki's 50 years - half a century - in New Zealand. Still, that's only half the age of their company, but...Look just go and have some fun! There is a great deal more to this, some real motorcycle industry history here. So, go and have a read - or show up 5 through 7 March 2010. The history is enough for a full semester in university.
http://tinyurl.com/ybg6c77
Second Look: 2010 Kawasaki KLX250SF - Video
The all new KLX250SF is Kawasaki's answer to the lightweight supermoto class - and they seem to have done it very right at first glance. The ride testing will come soon - as this is our second time to be updated on this bike - I am sure, but for now we can see that Kawasaki really put some thought into the design of this specific machine. I truly hope it works as well/good as it looks!
http://tinyurl.com/yhdovv7
Rizla Will Be Staying in MotoGP Championship with Suzuki
A new two-year deal is about to be signed between Rizla and Suzuki to keep the team together until 2011 at least. The economic situation had better improve a bit or that might be their last year there for some time. At least their sales in India are doing very well. It is good to know that there are still companies out there committed to our sport - so few are, so few can afford to anymore...This is good news!
http://tinyurl.com/yzdv2xr
Video: Shell Advance and V-Power Fuel Work Together in Ducati Hypermotard Engine
This is a great video. Who would have thought that a soulless company like Shell Oil would produce something so interesting. It is a computer illustration of how Shell's lubricants and fuel work together in the Ducati Hypermotard engine to keep it running smooth. It is very well done...take a look.
http://tinyurl.com/yl9rn38
Rhode Island Man Restores Rusty Relics of All Kinds
Rhode Island is not where you might think you would find an expert motorcycle restorer, but that is exactly where Peter Chase is working. It is good that he is there; plenty of people on the East Coast are looking for someone to bring their new auction purchase or barn find back from the dead. I must say that I would like to join this guy as a partner or something - imagine the amazing bikes he gets to return to the world.
http://tinyurl.com/ylmcam4
Capirossi to Help Develop World Superbike GSX-R1000 Development
It's an odd thing to hear, but Loris Capirossi will be helping the Suzuki WSBK effort test the 2010 Suzuki GSX-R1000 race machine. Riders Leon Haslam and Sylvain Guintoli will be assisted by the Suzuki MotoGP rider. As the article says, looks like Suzuki is serious about World Superbike now!
http://tinyurl.com/yjxvpwg
Chris Vermeulen Finishs Two Good Days of Testing in Spain
Vermeulen was in Cartegena testing on the Kawasaki ZX-10R for his 2010 World Superbike Championship return. He did some nice laps and made some good progress at the track. Overall, he seemed even happy with the way the testing went. He will be partnered with Tom Sykes in WSBK.
http://tinyurl.com/yg92rx5
Irish TT Racer - Walter Rusk - Blonde Bombshell
Supposedly, the town of Ulster still remembers Walter Rusk. I hope that is true. He raced in several 'real roads' races - of course, those were the only races in many locations - during the 1930's right up until World War II. He raced for the likes of Norton, AJS, Sunbeam, and Velocette. He died while in training to become a Royal Air Force pilot...ending this amazing life way too early.
http://tinyurl.com/yda33o6
Giacomo Agostini May Enter Moto2 Team - With Cagiva
It may very well happen, if they can get the sponsorship money. Ago and Claudio Castiglioni may work together to field an entry in the new 250GP replacement, Moto2. Can you imagine what that would be like? I hope it would not be some half-hearted attempt at publicity. Though, seeing some of what Ago can do, and not to mention the number of very talented people he knows well, I think that he would be able to run a rather good team.
http://tinyurl.com/y8qae5s
Auction Alert: Mid America Motorcycle Auction - MV Agusta Magni Superlight
Simple, it will be in Las Vegas during 7 to 9 January 2010, so get there at all costs! There will be several amazing vintage and important motorcycles from all over the world. It is really not to be missed if only for entertainment. Just make sure you check yourself and don't mortgage your home for some rare treasured beasty. One of the bikes featured in the auction is the MV Agusta Magni Superlight pictured here. If only...if only...I could even make money off of this machine and still hold on to it forever.
Auction Alert: Kevin Schwantz GSX-R1000 - A RGV500 Replica
The bike was actually modified and painted to appear similar to Schwantz's 1993 RGV500 Grand Prix race bike - you know, the one he won the World Championship on. It is a true one-of-a-kind as it is painted with Schwantz's name on it as well as his signature; all originally created for his visit to the centenary celebration at the Isle of Man TT in 2007. It is being auctioned to raise money as part of the BEN Ball in December. It is being auctioned, along with other items, to raise some £150,000. Have a look and bid, if you can...
Harley and Honda Will Be at the MCN Motorcycle Show
The MCN London Motorcycle Show will feature two marques which did not attend the Carole Nash Show this week at the NEC. In February, Honda and Harley-Davidson will join Ducati, BMW, Kawasaki, Triumph, Yamaha and Victory at the show. So, if you missed Carole Nash for some reason, the London Motorcycle Show is not to be missed - even if you did make it to the Carole Nash Show, you might want to stop by the MCN version too...
http://tinyurl.com/yzmg7uu
Destry Abbott's Thoughts on Kawasaki's SCORE Baja 1000 Race
Kawasaki entered the SCORE Baja 1000 this year as a factory effort for the first time in recent years - they have been gone from the race for over 11 years until now. Abbott and the other riders, Robby Bell, Steve Hengeveld, Ryan Penhall and Conner Penhall, turned in a very respectable race at the annual desert race in Baja California. They only lost to Honda's team by three tiny little minutes - that's just 180 seconds. Next year, watch out Honda!
http://tinyurl.com/ydapjl3
ZERO Motorcycles Joins With TTXGP eGrandPrix Series
Well, at least I expected to hear something about this - I just interviewed Saiki and he mentioned that something like this was coming - and now we all have! Zero will join the eGrandPrix series in 2010. The series is part of the TTXGP series and will run the first event in the US (yes, believe it or not) at Infineon Raceway in California. It is believed that Zero will use the frame and fairing of the Mavizen TTX02 (based on the KTM RC8R) with Zero's own batteries and motor. Looks like the TTXGP has one-upped the new FIM e-Power series. There will be many more announcements coming soon - stay tuned!
http://tinyurl.com/yh58ydf
More information on the current commitments to the TTXGP series:
http://tinyurl.com/yzqbje9
PR: DiMora Motorcar of California Launches Custom Motorcycle Division
From a press release, it seems that the boutique auto manufacturer of the Natalia SLS 2 sport luxury sedan will now add custom motorcycles to their production. The new models will be revealed at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach this weekend. It seems like they will be joining the repli-chopper market as this is a description from the press release - "The DiMora 180 Night Move is a classic pro street springer. The DiMora 250 Dragon’s Breath is an upper range softail chopper. For the finest custom ride anywhere, the DiMora 300 ZTango is the ultimate easy rider softail chopper when price is no object."
http://tinyurl.com/ygklm48
Suzuki Italy Releases 2010 B-King Hyaku for Centennial Anniversary
Though it is one of the most powerful motorcycle in production today, it is also a slow seller. The B-King was a highly-anticipated motorcycle from Suzuki - we all saw the photos of the super-charged concept - but it's release presented us with a rather nasty looking rear end - and some other questionable design choices. For the 100th Anniversary of Suzuki, the Italian division has produced this tricked-out version which looks a lot more like the one which should have come from the factory in the first place. The exhaust has been 'fixed' and there is liberal use of LED lighting. However, I am almost certain that it will not make it out of Europe.
More Feedback on the Rumored Move in MotoGP to 1000c.c.
Well, the production engine debate is still going on - unlikely, but possible - but the desire to move back up to near the old displacement level of 990c.c. from the current 800c.c. Herve Poncharal, in this continuing story, does support the move as it is more in lone with the realities of the industry today. But, he seems firmly opposed to moving to the production engines - as many are - since the MotoGP championship is the ultimate -pinnacle - motorcycle racing series, and World Superbike already uses 1000c.c. production engines. Have a read and see where MotoGP may end up in a few years...
http://tinyurl.com/yfljrw9
Even what seems like a confirmation of the eventual move from Vito Ippolito - you should know he is the president of the FIM:
http://tinyurl.com/yhkov3s
http://tinyurl.com/yzve4f9
Good Design: Speed Shop Design Special #6
It is what is left over from a 1978 Harley-Davidson Sporster basket-case which the builder purchased some four years ago. He bought it with the idea of getting it back on the road - but the seller was wrong when he stated that all parts were included in the sale; there were many missing. So, he took the bike and started a new design...and the SSD Special #6. Thank you Chris Flechtner for this work of art.
Even More News After Australian Superbike - and 2010 Season Schedule
Honestly, the news here is all from two press releases - one from Glenn Allerton' s team and one is from Jordan Burgess’ Australian Superstock 1000 Championship team. Have a look at how these two riders fared in the 2009 ASBK season.
http://tinyurl.com/ybp8537
Rick Olson Won the 2009 Australian Superstock 600 Championship.
http://tinyurl.com/yg8kpsw
Next, we have the new 2010 schedule for the 2010 Australian Superbike Championship. You will want to check this out to see where you can see this great series next year.
http://tinyurl.com/yfk22qq
Darwin gets a round in 2010 - first since 1999: http://tinyurl.com/yf4l9jn
Mark Buckley Battles Nasty Virus to Compete in Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix
Yep, it's true, Buckley was invited to ride in the race by British Superbikes regular Jentin Lloyds British. A few days before the race, though, he caught sick and was bedridden. In total, he was only on the track three times during practice to get to know the track - not much time for a new track. On race day, he fought his way out of bed and completed the race in a top ranked position. He had to visit the hospital wight after the event...Expect to see him there in 2010, and we all hope he will stay healthy!
http://tinyurl.com/yb3tpj4
Jay Leno Livens Up Piaggio Group North American Dealer Meeting
That's right, Jay Leno was at the Piaggio dealer meeting this past October in Carlsbad, CA. Apparently, he kept the audience laughing while the 2010 model line was introduced. Of course, the real star of the show was the 2010 RSV-4 Factory and its little sister, the RSV-4R. Must have been a great event to attend...
http://tinyurl.com/yepq3ym
GSE Racing - BSB Championship Team - May Have to Shut Down
Leon Camier won the British Superbike Championship for the Airwaves/GSE Racing team just this year. But, with their main sponsor - Airwaves - pulling the plug on sponsorship for 2010 (announced many weeks ago), the team may not have enough support to race in 2010. This is a very sad state of affairs when the champion's team cannot compete and defend their title...
http://tinyurl.com/yfpahg8
http://tinyurl.com/yf4ttug
Update - no sponsor yet and staff given redundancy notices...they could be done for 2010...
http://tinyurl.com/ylruoxr
Team Elf Sherco - All French Team - Ready for Rally Dakar
The team met in the French Riviera, David Casteu presented his Rally Dakar team to the public. They were shown before a group gathered at the local newspaper which consisted of dignitaries, politicians and many sports celebrities. The team immediately went to work planning for the rally and began practice the very next day.
http://tinyurl.com/yzz4vjy
http://tinyurl.com/yl5vt74
Rally Dakar Ready for 2010 Running in South America
For the second consecutive year, the Dakar Rally will be held in South America running between the nations of Argentina and Chile. It will be the usual competitors for the most part, but some newcomers are also expected to shine during the event. So, get yourself ready and take the link...
http://tinyurl.com/ygmm5bf
Purses Lowered Significantly for DMG/AMA Pro Racing Series
The economy is hitting AMA Pro Racing hard - and you can see that from this article. They have drastically reduced the amount of the purse in American Superbike - from US$73,500 to $6500. And, in the Daytona SportBike class, they have cut it more than half - from US$73,500 to $30,500. At least it demonstrates which series the organizers hope will become the premier class, even though the rules it uses are rather different than any other racing series in the world. This will reduce the privateer effort even more...
http://tinyurl.com/y8pmwkg
TapouT and Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows Bring You Meet the Fighters and VooDoo Customs
Long title, but it is a long list of participants! Suzuki has worked with VooDoo Industries will be presenting the TapouT Tribute Suzuki on Friday, 4 December 2009. It's a small world; I was just speaking with Rob Uecker while he was on the road to this event. When he arrives and sets up, they will be presenting a lovely Hayabusa customized by VooDoo for the TapouT fighters, Punkass and Skyskrape. I think you will be impressed, but you be the judge - we will see them this weekend after they are shown to the TapouT fans in their Lounge.
http://tinyurl.com/yc8fa77
First Look: 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 650R
It is a press release, but this bike does have a sort of 'exciting appearance' about it - especially in that radioactive green color. I am not sure what Kawasaki calls it but I like it. It is a great bike for a beginner or a commuter who likes to take the long way home every day. The Ninja 650R is a good machine and, actually, a well-designed motorcycle (a bit underpowered). The sleek lines and very compact engine really make this bike look like a 250 - so, a wolf in sheep's clothing. (I do wish they would re-do the EX500 - it could be a great middleweight.)
Agreed: Yamaha XT660Z Tenere Imported to US, Please!
Too bad that it is not here already. I can imagine it would give the KLR650 some tough competition, but it might not as this segment is growing year after year in the US and somehow the manufacturers are barely noticing it - except in Europe! Hey, we Americans will soon be working again and we will want dual-sport motorcycles! Import this bike now Yamaha!
New Norton Models Shown to Public at Carole Nash Show
These Norton models were rumored before, and I think we have even seen some press photos of one of them, but they were first displayed at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle & Scooter Show at the NEC in England. The show was awesome and maybe this was missed by some, but it sure should not have been missed. The Cafe Racer is my favorite of this pair, but I would like to see the red and gold on it...
From Canada - more photos: http://tinyurl.com/yg53xnz
David Knight Returns to KTM for World Enduro E3 Class
It's true, Knight is back with the company which he took to four championships. He will not be riding directly for the factory effort, but with a satellite team. It won't matter much as KTM will be supplying him with all factory support including all equipment. The return will hopefully be good for him after the less-than-stellar 2009 seaosn with BMW. Maybe it's the color orange?
http://tinyurl.com/yfkp9bb
Dr. Hugh H. "Harry" Hurt, Jr. Died Sunday, 29 November 2009
Very sad news...A pioneer of motorcycle safety and responsible for the last major study on motorcycle crash causation passed away Sunday of an apparent heart attack. The study has been named after him, The Hurt Report, and was conducted in the late 1970's and released in 1981. It changed many accepted beliefs about motorcycle crashes and changed many minds - helping to further the cause of motorcycle safety training and improvements in transport systems. It would have been nice if he could have seen the new one completed...
http://tinyurl.com/yjah6ta
http://tinyurl.com/yjah6ta
Yet Another New Sponsor for AMA Banquet, And More...
So, BikeBandit.com will now be sponsoring the AMA Racing Championship Banquet (brought to you by KTM) in Las Vegas this weekend. We already have heard about the Fox and KTM deals, so this is another good sign for the US industry. This is a great show of support for the motorcycle community!
http://tinyurl.com/ylgk4m8
Laurette Nicoll, veteran motocross racer and television broadcaster, will be Master of Ceremonies for the AMA Racing Championship Banquet.
http://tinyurl.com/ylfjdbc
First Ride: 2010 Moto Guzzi Stelvio ABS
Moto Guzzi has created another great motorcycle, the 2010 Stelvio ABS is certain to hold a position among their most flexible designs. This is, as the article says, a bike which Guzzi should have built when they released the original Stelvio - a solid and (possible) real contender for the BMW R1200GS. It is priced right, handles wonderfully and has similar horsepower, but less weight, to the GS. A solid and well-rounded bike which could very well find its way into my garage.
http://tinyurl.com/ya8gohg
http://tinyurl.com/ya8gohg
American Honda Honored by Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
PBTF has now created a Legacy Giving Wall at their Asheville, N.C., headquarters and American Honda is the first to be honored with their name on that fixture. It is all part of the new initiative, PBTF’s Greatest Return, where donors whose gifts will support the long term health of the organization will be written. American Honda has done a great deal for PBTF and they continue to do so...
http://tinyurl.com/yhgbvfy
Shock Doctor Helmet Ejection System Now Mandatory in NHRA
For every class and every racer, the National Hot Rod Association has now mandated that all participants use the helmet ejection system from Shock Doctor. It is a very good idea - and something too long in coming - but now we will see it really put to use. The dangers of drag racing can be extreme - especially with Pro Stock Motorcycle - so any safety edge, which does not compromise performance, is very welcome.
http://tinyurl.com/ybj5j4y
Interesting Idea: Eco Motorcycles Mc Type 2 Concept Photovoltaic Fairing
Yes, you read that right - it has solar panels built into its fairing. They will, in fact, charge the bike while it is moving or sitting curb-side. It's a great idea and one which may be coming soon. I still wonder when someone will figure out plastic batteries (malleable power storage) and make fairings and supports out of that...Someday soon, I hope. Anyway, check out the Mc Type 2 for yourself. It does look right out of Speed Racer...
PR: GORE Announces New 100% Durably Waterproof Closure System
I had read about this a few months back; Gore asked some moto journalists to test their new closure system and it worked great. It is essentially a waterproof replacement for a zipper. This way, garments will be simpler to manufacture - no need for the rain flaps around zippers - and lighter. The new Lockout Closure technology also helps with the appearance of your apparel as well. It really is a revolutionary idea, and it will likely replace many millions of zippers in the near future - wow, that closure system has been in use for almost a century and is still going strong - before you know it. However, there is one caveat; it has yet to prove itself as durable as a regular zipper in race applications.
http://tinyurl.com/yhmmavl
This Week in Motorcycling History - Road Racer X Speed Dating
Yep, another week another look back. This week has some interesting names associated with it. These include Martin Heath, Arnaud Vincent, Evel Knievel, Bruce Brown, Gavin Trippe & Superbikers, Steve Martin, Fonsi Nieto, Shuhei Aoyama and Cameron Beaubier. It's mostly birthdays, but there is one new race and one death on the list - covering parts of life we all experience.
http://tinyurl.com/ykxcwrx
Ben Attard Takes His Kawasaki to Third Place in Australian Supersport
I figure that man people will want to know how Ben Attard did in Australia, so here we go. He raced in the finale at Phillip Island and brought home a 6th and 9th place to secure his overall 3rd place in the 2009 Australian Supersport Championship. Overall, a very good year for the rider. His teammate, Kevin Curtain, who rides in the Australian Superbike Championship, ended the year in 9th place overall; a DNF in the second race at Phillip Island sealed his position there.
http://tinyurl.com/yzm5x3b
George White Release Race Replica Line of Motorcycles
The George White Superbikes dealership should be familiar considering their work with Gino Rea in the European Superstock 600 series. They are also very well-known for quality work on race engines in all Japanese marque's engines. They are now launching a special line of bikes which have been 'race-prepped' - painted, modified and customized - for the street. The put all of these special parts from the likes of Yoshimura, Gilles and R&G and they charge nothing for fitting them! The value is huge if you purchase one of these race-replica machines - too bad they are in the U.K. and not worldwide...
http://tinyurl.com/yggx3m2
PR: BMW Happy With EICMA Show and With Awards
The BMW K1300S won the Best Sports Tourer of 2009 and the F800GS won the Best Trailie category for the second year running. Overall, the EICMA event went much better than expected for many companies, but BMW walked away with these well-regarded awards which put them near the top of the successful list. This is a press release, so expect the usual marketing hype - BMW, though, does deserve the accolades.
http://tinyurl.com/yzypoz5
2010 Ducati Streetfighter versus 2008 Benelli TnT 1130
Ducati versus Benelli - a huge company up against what is essentially a boutique bike maker - and the Streetfighter comes out on top. We could all expect that outcome, but the Benelli offers plenty that the Ducati cannot offer. But, with large production facilities come lower overall prices on components, so Ducati can produce a motorcycle which is cheaper and better equipped than the small Benelli concern can possibly match. The TnT 1130 does shine rather well when it is up against something back as strongly as the Ducati.
http://tinyurl.com/yhl7626
Lorenzo's Target in 2010 MotoGP Season is Championship
Jorge Lorenzo had a great 2009 MotoGP season; he was very close to taking the championship away from Rossi. In 2010, the Fiat Yamaha rider wants to win it all this time. He and his team feel that he has learned a great deal from his 'mistakes' in the 2009 season and will use that to beat Rossi and every other MotoGP rider. Again, 2010 will be a great year for motorcycle racing!
http://tinyurl.com/yauy5kp
Dakota Mamola Takes His First Win at Valencia Finale
Randy Mamola's son, Dakota, won his first race at the final round of the Metrakit 125cc Pre-GP Mediterranean Championship in Valencia. It was a rain-affected race, and the conditions were terrible. The young Mamola started the race in 17th position on the grid, but managed to get to fifth by the first corner. He passed the rest of the field to gain his second podium (his other was at Catalunya) and his first ever win. His father is very proud, as you would expect.
http://tinyurl.com/ydkq6vr
Relentless Suzuki Is Taking Alistair Seeley to British Superbike
Relentless Suzuki will maintain the same team which brought Seeley the 2009 BSB Superstock 1000 championship, but they will be competing in British Superbikes in 2010. He did run a BSB Evo spec Suzuki in the last two rounds of the BSB Championship in 2009, and finished in the top ten. So, he has already seen much of the competition and believes he is ready to compete at that level.
http://tinyurl.com/yhauzgx
Valentino Rossi Up for Eurosport-Yahoo's 2009 World Sportsperson Award and More...
Rossi is often at the top of such lists, so this really should not come as too much of a surprise. He has already won several of them - so many, in fact, that he has probably forgotten some of those awards. In the running for the Eurosport-Yahoo's 2009 World Sportsperson award are also Usain Bolt, Jenson Button, Kim Clijsters, and many more. Take the link and we will wait and see who takes the honors...
http://tinyurl.com/yzduloh
Rossi is also in the running for ESPN's People's Choice for Champion of Champions 2009. You can vote here: http://tinyurl.com/yjl9c5p
LCR Honda Wants Top Privateer Honor in MotoGP
Colin Edwards and Tech 3 took the honor in 2009, but LCR Honda and rider Randy de Puniet want to take it in 2010. With rider de Puniet at the controls of an even more advanced Honda in 2010, they do have a chance. Honda will be providing the satellite teams with similar support to what the factory team is receiving. We will see how it all works out next season...
http://tinyurl.com/yfqscbv
Ben Spies Says One Ride Was All It Took...The World Championship Was His
After Ben Spies rode the Sterilgarda Yamaha YZF-R1 he said that if the bike could be made good - and there was no bad luck through the 2009 season - he felt he and his team could take the 2009 World Superbike Championship. It was as simple as taking a ride on the basic motorcycle just once. That's a champion for you...
http://tinyurl.com/ykwy8ka
Thundersport GB Tests Aprilia RRV Moto 450 at Almeria
The new motorcycle race concept of taking a 450 motocross-type motorcycle and converting it into a road race bike (often referred to as Formula 450) has been catching on everywhere of late. I still remember the first article I read about it some four years ago - I had expected it to start up sooner, but the economy probably helped to delay it a bit. Still, overall, running such a team is rather inexpensive when compared to even a Supersport series, so it should bring in plenty of privateers. In this article, some Aprilia Superteen competitors, Ian Newton and Jeremy McWilliams attended a Dunlop tire test at the Spanish Almeria Circuit to see how hard these machines will be on tires - hint: they're not at all...
http://tinyurl.com/yfvlbev
First Look: 2010 Aprilia Sportcity Cube 300
Aprilia started out producing scooters - well, that was what they were known for around the world - and they do make a very good two-wheel step-through. Aprilia's Sportcity 300 is one of their more sporty rides and it does show - not just in its appearance, but in its performance as well. Of course, it will not be fighting for position in a street race, but it will get you where your going rather quickly and make the ride entertaining! Have a look.
And, now a video: http://tinyurl.com/yeb8o62
Aprilia Confirms Guandalini and Borciani Team Interest
The Ducati teams of Guandalini and Marco Borciani are merging for the 2010 World Superbike Championship and are very interested in running at least one rider on an Aprilia RSV-4. Aprilia has now confirmed that they are speaking with the newly created team. The Guandalini team has already signed Jacob Smrz for 2010, so it looks like he would be the rider...
http://tinyurl.com/yhvrecm
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