Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

To all race fans,

I am writing this letter in regards to the rule changes AMA Pro Racing has proposed for Formula Extreme. Being involved with professional road racing on a daily basis, I have spoken with a number of riders about the class. Many 250 riders and current Formula Extreme riders are not happy with the changes, but I think they are the nucleus of a good class.

We all have to adapt to changes, and the rule changes that have put 1000cc inline fours into superbike and now into Superstock reflect the fact that the four major Japanese manufacturers have changed their main focus from 750cc bikes to 1000cc.

The new Formula Extreme class combines modified 600 four-cylinder four strokes (the four Japanese manufactures) and 250 two strokes (add Aprilia), allowing these tuners and products to continue in a GP-like format. AMA Pro Racing has also included the Pro-Thunder spec 748 and 749 Ducatis, which gives these riders and teams a chance to come back to AMA events after a year of no longer having a class.

So, we now have a class for the four Japanese manufacturers, Aprilia, and Ducati. However, I would like to have the AMA make one further change. Please do not only allow the Pro-Thunder Ducatis, but also allow all Pro-Thunder spec bikes. This would permit Buell, BMW, and Moto Guzzi riders and teams to run in a multi-brand professional venue.

Historical data shows that these bikes can put on a reasonable showing against the Ducatis, but they would not dominate the class. It would give fans of these marquees (including Harley-Davidson fans, many which love Buell) a real motivation to attend AMA races and watch them on TV.

In short, there is nothing but a benefit to all to make this last step in creating an exciting multi-brand class. I would like to appeal to the AMA to make this rule change, and appeal to all riders who would like to see the ultimate formula class to also write to the AMA requesting this change.

Sincerely,

Mike Ciccotto
Sebastian, Florida