From a press release:

KERN TO RIDE FOR MAIN LINE BMW IN 2005 FORMULA USA THUNDERBIKE

Devon, PA (February 24, 2005) — Main Line BMW of Devon, PA, announces today their plans to contest the 2005 Formula USA Thunderbike series with rider Nate Kern. Riding BMW R1100S motorcycles prepared by crew chief Michael Peter, Nate will bring the experience gained while riding in the BMW Boxer Cup series in Europe last season back to America. Owner of Main Line BMW Cortright Wetherill is the team owner, and daughter and General Manager of Main Line BMW Amanda Wetherill will manage the team.

“I am excited about taking on the rest of the competition in Thunderbike with the BMW,” said Nate. “The R1100S is a very good racing platform and is a lot of fun to ride. I have full confidence that we will bring a competitive team to the series to showcase the capability of the R1100S and BMW’s in general. Aside from BMW Motorrad USA, we’ve gotten a lot of support from top quality product companies who will make our job much easier and the team a lot more competitive.”

The team has received sponsorship from BMW Motorrad USA, who has provided bikes that will be campaigned. Xceed Motorsports will handle all publicity for the team, and assist with race strategy.

Kern and the R1100S are no strangers to the Thunderbike series. Last year Kern successfully qualified the BMW at both Thunderbike races entered, including Daytona and VIR. At VIR, Kern qualified sixth, turning very competitive lap times for the class. “I was able to turn 1:35s at VIR last year, which demonstrates that the BMW is not a bike that can be judged from first appearances,” said Nate.

The team will be at Daytona on March 3 to participate in the first round of the Formula USA Thunderbike championship.