From a press release issued by HMC Ducati:

HMC DUCATI MILWAUKEE RACING BEGINS SEASON AT PIKES PEAK, CO

HMC Ducati Milwaukee Racing

HMC Ducati Milwaukee Racing, the factory-backed Formula Xtreme 749R race team, will launch their racing debut at Pikes Peak, CO, on May 21, 2004.

Excited about the Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Series, team owner Mitch Hansen said, “We were extremely optimistic in getting our race bike prepared in time for round four at Barber Motorsports Park. We are sourcing parts from across the globe like bodywork, wheels, go fast bits, Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes and calipers. Because of 9/11, shipping has taken longer than we anticipated.”

Crew chief Gary Medley stated, “We could go to Barber this weekend but we’re not fully prepared. I haven’t had a chance to even dyno the engine.”

The rules in Formula Xtreme allow for complete Superbike-like modifications. The Ducati 749R will be fully modified and provide the points-leading Hondas a run for their money.

The Ducati 749R is technically the most advanced twin-cylinder bike ever produced. It features a short stroke engine and the revolutionary testastretta head design. This bike was designed to mark Ducati’s return to World Supersport racing but will be extremely competitive in the US-based Formula Xtreme class.

Three-time Superbike champion Doug Chandler will race the HMC machine. To get into the required racing mindset for Pikes Peak, CO, Chandler is readying his personal Ducati for a round of Track Days practices.

Lead sponsor Ducati Milwaukee, located in Saukville, WI 53080 at 262-284-2725, will have Doug Chandler-derived 749R bikes available for the 2005 season for the Ducati racing enthusiasts.