Copyright 2001, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Roadracing World’s analysis of valves from Chuck Chouinard’s GSX-R750 show that there was metal removal and reshaping of the valves, as charged by AMA tech inspectors when they disqualified Chouinard from the 750cc Supersport race at Loudon.

The valves were examined and compared to stock valves using a powerful microscope. Photos of the valves will be published in the October, 2001 issue of Roadracing World, which will be on the newsstand at the beginning of September.

But while the analysis found that the valves had been modified, there is little chance that the slight valve reshaping alone created any significant power advantage, and the AMA’s harsh treatment of Chouinard stands in stark contrast to the fine-and-release stance taken by AMA tech inspectors in other recent Supersport rules violation cases. Although the disqualification of Chouinard can be justified by the rulebook, a more proper and consistent response may have been to fine him and warn him to never use reshaped valves again.

The analysis also found that it is possible that the valve reshaping was caused by the use of Scotchbrite to clean the valves.

Chouinard’s finish at Loudon was the result of his aggressive riding and not due to anything having to do with his valves, the analysis found, especially given his weight of over 200 pounds.

Recently, Chouinard got his GSX-R750 into the 1:11s during a Loudon club race weekend, a lap time not achieved by any 750cc Supersport rider at the Loudon National, and a further testiment to his riding ability and expertise at Loudon.