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Updated: What Happened With AFM At Infineon Raceway, Along With Assorted Other Press Releases Related To Memorial Day Weekend Races

With the AMA nationals taking place just one week before the event, several AFM racers were looking to carry the momentum and intensity into Round Three of the 2007 AFM Championship. While the gusts of wind blowing through the Sonoma Valley were a bit chilly, they did little to cool the heated action on the racetrack, with several fierce battles taking place at Infineon Raceway over the course of the day.

In the MDK Motorsports Formula Pacific race, it was Michael Earnest of Pacific Tracktime who grabbed the holeshot, starting the race strong after fighting suspension problems at the AMA national. Martin Szwarc was able to make his way past Earnest, putting his Pirelli-shod Rattlers Rock Racing GSX-R1000 at the front of the Formula Pacific race for the first time in his career, leading a six rider group that broke away from the rest of the field. Eventually, former AFM Number One David Stanton was able to take the lead on his Mach 1 Motorsports R1, taking the position from Szwarc on the brakes into the Turn 9 chicane. Szwarc slipped back another position to third after running wide on the exit of Turn 11, allowing Cory Call to take second on his MDK Motorsports GSX-R1000.

After a strong 13th place finish in the Superbike class at the AMA national just one week earlier, many were looking for Call to challenge Stanton, who was going progressively stronger on his Yamaha after spending several years on Suzukis. But as the race went on, Stanton put his head down and extended his lead, eventually going on to take his second straight Formula Pacific win. Call a regular rider at Pacific Tracktime trackdays crossed the line in second, with Martin Szwarc in third, his first visit to the Formula Pacific winner’s circle.

“It was a good race Martin was fast in some areas, I was fast in other areas, and he was riding really hard,” said Stanton from the winner’s circle. “I was able to get past him in Turn 9, I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it at first! The wind was a problem out there, for the last five laps I didn’t even have to use the brakes going into the Carousel! This Yamaha R1 has been great, Jeff Leggitt of Mach 1 Motorsports has been helping me out, and KC at BRG Racing has been awesome, he does all my dyno work, and keeps this thing running fast!”

In only his second weekend on his new 2007 GSX-R1000, Szwarc had one of the most successful weekends of his career. In addition to his third place finish in Formula Pacific, Szwarc was able to take the win in the GP Frame and Wheel Open Grand Prix race over Andy Carman and former AFM Number One Rob Mesa, with a third place finish in the Take it 2 the Track Open Production race as well as the Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike race.

“I had a great weekend four races and four podiums, I can’t complain about that!” said Szwarc. “The Pirellis were working great this weekend for Formula Pacific I put on a used front slick from last weekend and a DOT rear, and they worked phenomenally. It’s my second weekend on the new bike, and I was working all last weekend on setup, so I came out here just knowing it was going to be better than my old bike. I have to thank Mike Canfield at Roseville Cycle for helping me tune this thing, and my mechanic Kirk from my team, Rattlers Rock Racing. With four races this past weekend, I needed all the help I could get!”

Carrying the momentum from a 13th place finish in the Superbike class at the AMA national, Cory Call started the day strong, taking a third in the Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production race and a win in the Take it 2 the Track Open Production before his second place finish in Formula Pacific. After being docked a lap for starting from the wrong grid position in the R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike race, Call came back like a man on a mission, finishing the day by winning the Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike race and the Scuderia West Formula 1 race.

“It’s amazing how fast these bikes are off the showroom floor,” said Call. “Both of my bikes are bone stock slip on, power commander, stock shock, stock valving, stock springs, and I haven’t even touched the clickers on one of them. I’m on a severely tight budget this year, MDK and Folsom have hooked me up to the hilt. I’m working there, I’m representing, just trying to make Northern California look good! The 750 is my girlfriend Suzanne’s bike, we both do trackdays with Pacific Tracktime, and if I set the bike up for me, it wouldn’t work for her because she’s so light. She’s the only girl I know who can drag elbow!”

Brian Parriott put in several strong performances on the day riding his San Jose BMW R1200S, taking home a total of three wins, starting in the Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production race, with Kenny Carlotta finishing second and Cory Call third. In the R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike race, he beat the GSX-R750s of second place finisher Garry Combs and third place finisher David Bell. In the Desmoto Sport Open Twins race, Parriott pulled out to an early lead, beating the Ducati 999s of second place finisher Craig McLean and third place finisher Patrick Blackburn.

“My San Jose BMW R1200S was on the gas, and the crew at San Jose BMW really had their work cut out for them,” said Parriott. “It’s a Moto-ST bike, and the limit there is 118 horsepower, so we’re probably making a little closer to 114-115. The bike puts new meaning to the phrase ‘Putting your head down’ I’ve been dragging the cylinder heads in Turn 2, Turn 5, and Turn 11 all weekend long! The Pirelli tires were working great, and we’ve been riding the wheels off of this thing, and it’s all thanks to the tuning from the guys at San Jose BMW.”

In the Teresa McKinney Realtor Formula 40 class, it was Mike Thompson who took the win, riding a Suzuki GSX-R1000 after spending two seasons on a Yamaha R1. Spencer Stuart who put in a pair of strong performances in the recent AMA national challenged Thompson early on his Yamaha R6, but was unable to hold the pace as Thompson gradually pulled away as the race went on. Stuart crossed the line in second, with Jeff Gruetter third.

“I got the holeshot, saw some open track, and felt like I was gonna pull away, but going into Turn 11 I saw Spencer’s wheel and though ‘Uh oh, I gotta go!” said Thompson. “I’ve got to thank the guys at Desmoto Sport for doing the forks on my bike. The bike worked good, the tires worked good, it was good stuff! I can’t wait for Bud to get back up to speed, it’s amazing he’s even out there after that accident he had a few months ago. That guy is my idol! “

The Formula 3 class featured its third winner in three rounds, with LRRS racer Zack Courts taking the win over Debra Barton on an NFS Racing RS125 borrowed from new west coast transplant and former LRRS 125 champion, Eric Yoo. After exchanging the lead several times with Courts, Barton settled in to finish second, with Michael Aron third.

“Everyone in that lead pack was pretty fast, and I was fortunate enough to get a good start and tag along with them right away,” said Courts. “I seemed to have a little more on corner entry than Deb did, but she came out of corners well and had a fast bike I was having trouble keeping up for sure! I have to thank my friend Eric Yoo I’m just visiting this weekend, so I’m riding his motorcycle, staying at his apartment, and eating his food before I fly back on Tuesday!”

In the 250 Production class, Adam Klinger looked to bounce back from a crash in Round Two, but found himself with a challenge in the form of Brandon Merkel. The pair traded positions several times over the course of the race, but in the end it was Merkel who prevailed on his Pirelli-shod Santa Rosa Superbikes DRZ400SM, as his ability on the brakes proved to be too much for the motor of Klinger’s Honda VTR250.

“I think I started last, but the singles start really well, so by Turn 2 I was up to 3rd place or so,” said Merkel. “It took me a couple of laps to track Adam down he’s a tough competitor and had motor on me, but I made up for it on the brakes. We probably exchanged the lead about 10 or so times my plan was to take him on the brakes 7, 9, and 11, and hopefully kill his drives, so that maybe I could get a chance to break away and gap him. All those braking areas are key for the Supermoto.”

The next round of AFM action is scheduled to take place on July 7th and 8th at Thunderhill Raceway.

AFM Round 3 May 27, 2007 Infineon Raceway Unofficial Results

MDK Motorsports Formula Pacific 1. David Stanton (Yam 1000) 2. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. Michael Earnest (Suz 1000) 5. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 6. David Bell (Suz 1000)

Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike 1. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 2. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. David Bell (Suz 1000) 5. James J. King (Suz 1000) 6. Christopher Weiss (Suz 1000)

R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 3. David Bell (Suz 750) 4. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 5. Kim Nakashima (Suz 750)

Pacific Track Time 600 Superbike 1. Jeff Tigert (Hon 600) 2. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 3. Richard Corey (Yam 600) 4. Grant Riggs (Suz 600) 5. Zenzo Tazawa (Suz 600) 6. Matt Eccleston (Yam 600)

Alpine RV 450 Superbike 1. Michael Lohmeyer (Hon 400) 2. Richard Moore (Yam 442) 3. Yoav Damti (Yam 450) 4. Jonathan Forman (Suz 500) 5. Bob Simmons (Hon 400) 6. Ed Haazer (Hon 400)

250 Superbike 1. Andrew Duafala (Yam 250) 2. Joe Rust (Yam 250) 3. Johnny Radavero (Yam 250) 4. Brandon Merkel (Suz 400) 5. Sean Pagel (Apr 250) 6. Steve Mandeville (Yam 250)

Take it 2 the Track Open Production 1. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 2. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. David Stanton (Yam 1000) 5. Grant Riggs (Suz 1000) 6. James J. King (Suz 1000)

Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Kenny Carlotta (Suz 600) 3. Cory Call (Suz 750) 4. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 5. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 6. Ken Hill (Suz 750)

Keigwins@theTrack 600 Production 1. Chris Siglin (Suz 600) 2. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 3. Richard Corey (Yam 600) 4. Zenzo Tazawa (Suz 600) 5. Stuart Spencer (Yam 600) 6. Berto Wooldridge (Suz 600)

450 Production 1. Mark Elrod (Hon 400) 2. John Berntsen (Hon 400) 3. Kathy Kuwaye (Hon 400)

250 Production 1. Brandon Merkel (Suz 400) 2. Adam Klinger (Hon 250) 3. Thomas Dorsey (Suz 400) 4. Warren Metlitzky (Kaw 250) 5. Susan Urquhart (Hon 250) 6. Carmela Eager-Stowe (Kaw 250)

GP Frame and Wheel Open Grand Prix 1. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 2. Rob Mesa (Suz 1000) 3. Andy Carman (Suz 1000) 4. Christopher Weiss (Suz 1000) 5. Mike Thompson (Suz 1000) 6. Shawnery Hardin (Suz 1000)

Scuderia West Formula 1 1. Cory Call (Suz 750) 2. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 3. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 4. David Bell (Suz 750) 5. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 6. Stan Riner (Suz 750)

Shawn Herrera Formula 2 1. Jeffry Hanford (Hon 250) 2. Dan Cook (Yam 250) 3. Brian Hoffman (Hon 250) 4. Shawn Herrera (Yam 250) 5. Dante D’Ambruoso (Yam 250) 6. Richard Denman (Hon 250)

Formula 3 1. Zack Courts (Hon 125) 2. Debra Barton (Hon 125) 3. Michael Aron (Hon 125) 4. Jeff Lim (Hon 125) 5. Hodaka Kajita (Hon 125)

Race-Oil.com AMSOIL Formula 4 1. Jeff Hagan (Suz 650) 2. David Civiello (Suz 650) 3. Dan Sewell (Suz 650) 4. Jay Kinberger (Suz 650) 5. Michael Lohmeyer (Hon 400) 6. David Raff (Suz 650)

Desmoto Sport Open Twins 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Craig McLean (Duc 999) 3. Patrick Blackburn (Duc 999) 4. Matthew Green (Duc 999) 5. Simon Williams (Duc 999) 6. Lance Williams (Duc 749)

Foremost Insurance 650 Twins 1. Jeff Hagan (Suz 650) 2. Dan Sewell (Suz 650) 3. Kevin Heiss (Suz 650) 4. William Fox (Suz 650) 5. David Civiello (Suz 650) 6. David Raff (Suz 650)

500 Twins 1. Jonathan Forman (Suz 500) 2. Mickey Fimbres (Kaw 500) 2. Eric Karl Schiller (Kaw 500) 4. Leonard Barker Jr (Kaw 500)

Formula Singles 1. Robert Black (Hon 450) 2. Clay Hassinger (ATK 598)

Teresa McKinney Realtor Formula 40 1. Mike Thompson (Suz 1000) 2. Spencer Stuart (Yam 600) 3. Jeff Gruetter (Hon 1000) 4. Bud Anderson (Suz 1000) 5. Jeff Smith (Suz 1000) 6. Rick McDaniel (Suz 1000)

Vintage 1. David Crussel (Kaw 748) 2. Richard Haas (Duc 748) 3. Michael Polkabla (Hon 160) 4. Wallace Riddle (Hon 160) 5. Ryan Imboden (Yam 350)

Clubman Lightweight 1. Robert Black (Hon 450) 2. Ben Swiggett (Suz 650) 3. David Canzano (Suz 650) 4. Peter Le Duc (Hon 125) 5. Norman Smith (Kaw 250) 6. Clay Hassinger (ATK 598)

Clubman Middleweight 1. Tim Hansen (Suz 750) 2. Brian Huskamp (Yam 600) 3. Elijah Jackson (Suz 600) 4. Ricardo Vizcaino (Yam 600) 5. Chad Covington (Hon 600) 6. Brian Davis (Yam 600)

Clubman Heavyweight 1. Steve Harrison (Yam 1000) 2. John Proctor (Suz 750) 3. Guy Hyder (Hon 954) 4. Keith Tashiro (Suz 1000) 5. Brendan Lahiff (Suz 750) 6. Thomas Hurray (Duc 748)

More, from a press release issued by Buell:

ESTOK RIDES BUELL TO VICTORY AT ASRA THUNDERBIKE NATIONAL

Bilansky is Second at Summit Point; Buell Racers Take Four of Top Five Positions

SUMMIT POINT, W.V. (May 28, 2007) Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing’s David Estok made a dramatic last-lap pass of Hal’s H-D/Buell Hal’s Speed Shop’s Dan Bilansky to win the third round of the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) Pro Thunderbike series at Summit Point Motorsports Park. Both riders were aboard Buell Firebolt XB12R motorcycles.

“I couldn’t be more happy with this win,” said Estok. “I’ve never won a pro race at this track and it’s been really frustrating for me. The Deeley team put a great Buell under me today and I was able to find a way to pass Dan one more time before the finish.”

To take the win, Estok first had to recover from a bad start in the 10-lap Thunderbike National that put him back in the pack while Bilansky, the defending ASRA Thunderbike champion, took the early lead. Estok caught Bilansky on lap four, and the pair of Buell riders then traded the lead position for the next six laps, racing side-by-side as neither was able to gain a significant advantage. On the final lap, Estok passed Bilansky for the lead and was able to open a gap of about four bike lengths as he recorded his best Thunderbike lap time of the weekend. Estok took the win by just 0.211 seconds. Arnold Hastings finished third aboard a Suzuki SV, followed by Buell riders Joe Rozynski (Sound Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop) and Sam Rozynski (Sound Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop).

H-D/Buell of Frederick rider Bryan Bemisderfer earned the pole for the Thunderbike National with a lap time of 1:18.359 on the two-mile Summit Point road course, but did not start the race after his motorcycle developed a mechanical problem during Monday morning practice. Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing rider Darren James, second in Thunderbike points coming into the Summit Point event, dropped out after two laps with a mechanical problem.

After three of eight ASRA Pro Thunderbike rounds, Bilansky has 88 points to lead the series, followed by Estok with 82.

In Championship Cup Series (CCS) sprint racing on Sunday, Art Diaz rode a Buell Firebolt XB12R to win the GT Lights Expert class, while Bemisderfer, Estok and James swept the podium in the Thunderbike Expert class. On Monday, Diaz rode his Buell to victory in the CCS Lightweight Superbike Expert class.

The next event on the eight-race 2007 ASRA Pro Thunderbike series schedule is the VIR Festival of Speed, June 23-24 at Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.

Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, produces sport motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. For the Buell dealer nearest you, pull into www.buell.com.

More, from a press release issued by Tim Knutson:

KNUTSON LEADING 2 CLASSES AFTER ROUND 2 OF WERA WEST AT CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY

Tim Knutson wins A Superbike and finished 5th in Formula 1 on an Evan Steel Performance Kawasaki ZX10R as WERA West returned to California Speedway for Rd 2 of the series making up for the winded out event in January.

The Formula 1 race saw Tim get off to great start coming out of turn 1 in 2nd and led to couple of back and forth lead changes with Eddie Barrajas til they reached the long front straight as Tim watch Eddie’s monster GSXR K7 pull away, only to have Tim catch back up to the rear wheel in the infield. The two repeated this act til the halfway mark when Jason Perez got into the mix first passing Tim and then getting by Eddie to win the race. The ZX10 developed a bad chatter entering corners on the brakes. Tim held on for 5th, which was good enough to give him the Formula 1 points lead. After the race an inspection of the forks showed a leaky fork seal that was causing the chatter. “Well there’s not much I can do about the forks right now, I’ve got another race in 30 minutes” said Tim between races. “I know what it’s going to give me right now, it’s not great by any stretch but it’s ridable”

Armed with the knowledge that the ZX10 was lacking the all out power of the Suzuki’s, Tim had to employ a different race strategy for the A Superbike race. Tim got off to another great start, this time grabbing the holeshot. Despite being shown a couple of front wheels on the first lap, Tim was able to lead the first lap and get back to the infield first. Using the infield advantage Tim was able to hold on to lead lap after lap. Just past halfway the red flag came out as Oscar Gonzalez highsided his GSXR out of the final corner, giving Tim the victory. “Well I hope Oscar is ok, my plan worked out this time as leading through the infield was the only way I was gonna hold off the GSXR’s on the long front straight. The chatter was still there like I knew it would be but it’s manageable when you know it’s coming.”

Tim was forced to ride the ZX10 as his Suzuki is awaiting parts after his lowside at Phoenix leading the Unlimited GP. “The ESP ZX10 is a great bike but it ain’t no Suzuki that’s about all I have to say about that.”

More, from a press release issued by Aquino Motorsports:

Tommy Aquino, after only racing his Graves Motorsports R6 three times, won his first race at the WERA West round at California Speedway this Memorial weekend. Tommy placed 1st in the 750 Superbike Expert class starting from the 6th row. He also placed second in both his 600 Superbike and Superstock Expert races. Thanks to all that support him.

More, from a press release issued by FNB Racing:

(Portland, Oregon) – FNB Racing’s young gun, Peter Lenz batted 1,000 as he won 6 heats and 6 mains, led every lap, and took every holeshot in NMRRA’s motorcycle road racing action this past weekend. After racing five events in California and a Canadian National, road racing’s rising star came back to a track that he knew well. Living in Fort Vancouver, WA, USA the track used by NMRRA in McMinnville, Oregon is as close as it gets for the young road racer.

At the recommendation of Peter’s riding coach, Keith Code, author of The Twist of the Wrist series and coach to such champion riders as Wayne Rainey, Doug Chandler, Ben Bostrom, Peter has been making as many stops within driving distance to gain experience across Western North America. Over the past several months Peter and his Dad have traveled over 10,000 miles to attend races looking for the challenges of new tracks and talented riders to compete with at his level. Peter rode his Metrakit Canada supplied bike in his private coaching session with Keith Code earlier this month and the impact was immediate. Upon Peter’s return to the McMinnville track he was running record lap times in his first practice while reacquainting himself with the track.

Peter was true to form as he took pole, earned every holeshot, led every lap and won all six classes he entered. This weekend he ran smart, conserving himself and his equipment. “I just put my head down and rode hard for the first couple laps until I had a gap, then I would back off a bit to make sure I didn’t use up my bike. The gearing Vortex Racing sent was good. It was good to have the right gearing after Willow and Stratotech where I had ran out. Thanks Lee,” commented Lenz.

This weekend saw Peter giving valuable feedback to FNB Racing team owner, Justin Watkins, who was running Peter’s three bikes this weekend. “I let Peter run the show. He was really good at communicating what was going on with the bikes. I made the adjustments he asked for and we went from there,” explained Watkins. “Peter’s father normally runs his bikes but wasn’t able to attend this weekend due to medical reasons. I was happy to help one of my rider’s out. It was a change from my responsibilities with AMA Timing and Scoring and my FNB Racing sprint and endurance teams. I have known Peter since he was three, back when his father rode on my team. FNB Racing has been supporting Peter since he gave up the dirt and went to asphalt. I see what we are doing here but in an earlier phase with the same type of program Celtic Racing has been doing with PJ Jacobson with similar success. Peter brought our team its first national championship last year and he is leading the 2007 series right now as well. I believe he has the potential to do something special if given the support,” explained Watkins.

You can learn more about Peter and his goals on his website at www.peterlenz.com and about FNB Racing at www.fnb-racing.com.

More, from a press release issued by Mojotown:

Where: Infineon Raceway When: May 27th, 2007 Organization: American Federation of Motorcycles – AFM Class: Formula III (125 GP)

Michael Aron aboard his Mojotown Honda RS125 proved that he could run the pace to win the race by setting lap times that were quicker than the previous race winners lap times at the same track. He had hoped to get out in front and run away with a victory but his plans were quickly changed when he missed a shift going into turn two letting two other slip past him.

On the 4th lap while running in 3rd place the race was black flagged and a 6 lap restart was in order. Michael again took the hole shot and opened up a few bike length lead and was able to keep people behind him for the first lap. However due to a lack of time on 125’s and miss judging his brake markers he let one person slip by.

Eventually one more rider would slip by him to relegate him to third place. Michael made one move to take back second place but it was short lived riding against two LRRS riders now riding with the AFM.

Michael stayed within reach of the leaders but was unable to make any late race attempts to make any passing for a higher podium spot and finished 3rd ahead of Jeff Lim who Aron was tied with in the points.

Michael is now leading the championship in the Formula III class with a 5 point margin. The season is sure to be an exciting one to follow with very close racing.

More, from a press release issued by MotoSix:

Aaron Clark & MotoSix Win Big at Hastings Motorsports Park

Under cloudy skies and a threat of rain all weekend, MotoSix riders Dave Gallant and Aaron Clark dug deep to take home 8 podium finishes and a big win with the MRA at Hastings Motorsports Park.

Aaron Clark was the big winner of the weekend winning the MRA”s premier class coined “Race of the Rockies”. With a large purse and contingency monies up for grabs and riders such as Mike Smith, Shawn Conrad, David Anthony, and Chad Lewin in attendance, the fastest of the fast were setting their sites on that prize.

“The layout of this track is fantastic and it presents a variety of different challenges throughout each lap. Since the surface is so new it is extremely abrasive and we spent the entire weekend learning how help the Pirelli tires cope with the immense traction available. Our pre-race testing paid off, and with the help of GP Suspension components and Dave Rose of Single Track Mind, we came up with a great overall setup for my 2007 Fay Myers Suzuki GSXR 1000. In the end, we really figured out how to use all of the amazing grip the new Diablo Superbike and Supercorsa tires have to offer to win the big races. and I couldn”t be more pleased how the season is progressing” commented Aaron Clark.

When asked about his Race of the Rockies race, Aaron added, “Yesterday I tried to break away too early, and unfortunately was not able to build up enough of a gap to maintain it to the end. Today my plan was to sit in 2nd place for the majority of the race and preserve the bike for a hard charge at the end. With 4 laps to go I saw my opportunity, siezed it, and put my head down until the end. These guys pushed me really hard today and they all rode an incredible race”

Dave Gallant put in more strong rides in Heavyweight Supersport and Heavyweight Superbike throughout the weekend, putting his Suzuki on the podium three times.

“I have never ridden on a track surface so new and, like everyone else out here, I was really overworking the tire. I was able to work through it however and although my setup is drastically different than the one that works for Clarkie, on the smaller displacement bikes it has proven very successful in preserving the tire and providing great rider feedback. The SBS Dual Carbon pads were also a big help this weekend as they let me trail brake deeper and deeper as the weekend went on, and that was a big advantage in many corners. In all my races I rode hard with some very fast company, and am looking forward to getting to the next race and applying our new setup knowledge” commented Dave Gallant of MotoSix Motorsports.

MotoSix riders Aaron Clark and David Gallant will compete next with the Masters of the Mountains series at Miller Motorsports Park on June 9th and 10th.

AMA Pro Racing Previews This Coming Weekend’s Superbike Races At Road America

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AMA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP TIED COMING INTO ROAD AMERICA PICKERINGTON, Ohio (May 29, 2007) Road America is set to host one of the hottest rivalries in AMA Superbike Championship racing history. With the Suzuki Superbike Doubleheader on June 1-3, at the scenic four-mile circuit in Elkhart Lake, Wis., fans will have the opportunity to see a battle royale between Superbike’s top two riders defending champ Ben Spies, of Longview, Texas, and six-time AMA Superbike title holder Australian Mat Mladin. After seven rounds the Yoshimura Suzuki duo are tied for the series lead a rarity coming into mid-season. Road America has been hosting AMA Superbike races since 1980, but not since the days of Eddie Lawson vs. Freddie Spencer in the early 1980s or Wayne Rainey vs. Kevin Schwantz in the late ’80s, has there been such an intense rivalry in the championship. Not only have there been superb duels on the track, the two have also traded verbal jabs in the press. Mladin often claiming he was not on top of his game last year when his domination was broken by Spies, and Spies saying that he receives no respect from his more veteran racing colleague. Now the drama-filled series moves to the high-speed Road America, a track where Mladin has claimed six of his record 56-career AMA Superbike wins. The Aussie sensation is coming off a sweep of the doubleheader at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., on May 19-20. “It was a great weekend for us,” Mladin said of the last round. “We’re looking to getting up to Road America, to a racetrack that I really enjoy a lot. As far as for me, it’s one of my favorites, because of the speed, and the type of corners they have. So I’m looking forward to getting up there. It was good to get two wins at Infineon, to close up the points, and we’ll head up to Wisconsin in a couple of weeks.” Even though Spies has yet to earn a Superbike win in Elkhart Lake, he seems up for the challenge the longest track in the series presents. “It was a little frustrating [at Infineon Raceway], but speed-wise we weren’t too bad,” Spies said. “We weren’t quite as quick, obviously, but it wasn’t demoralizing, just a little frustrating. So we’re going to Road America. I’ve never won there, but it’s my favorite track, for sure, and hopefully we can turn that around there.” Between them, Mladin and Spies have won every race so far this season. The rider who most frequently keeps the Suzuki riders in sight is veteran Honda rider and five-time Road America Superbike winner Miguel Duhamel. The Montreal native, who now calls Las Vegas home, is third in the rankings, 41 points behind the leaders. “Obviously Road America has been one of the strongest tracks for me over the years,” said Duhamel, who swept the doubleheader there in 2002. “It’s been really tough to have such a great bike in my Honda CBR1000RR and still not have a win to my credit. I’m hoping we can change that real soon.” Eric Bostrom is another former Road America winner. Bostrom is back in Superbike with the factory Yamaha squad. Yamaha’s return to Superbike racing has been marked by moments of excellence, especially early in races. Bostrom, and his teammate Jason DiSalvo, are hoping to find the combination to put Yamaha back atop the Road America Superbike podium for the first time in six years. Like Yamaha, Kawasaki has gone through a long dry spell at Road America. Roger Hayden and Jamie Hacking are now piloting the Monster Energy-back Kawasaki ZX-10Rs and both say the bikes have the speed, now they have to perfect the handling. The long straights at Road America could play right into the strengths of their bikes. Eraldo Ferracci experienced success at Road America in the early-to-mid 1990s with his riders Doug Polen, Pascal Picotte and Alessandro Gramigni. Now Ferracci is fielding a new Superbike team running MV Agustas with Italian Luca Scassa and Georgian Matt Lynn. The exotic MV Superbikes have been steadily improving as the season progresses. This will be the home race for the Jordan Suzuki team. The Chicago-based squad has a bona fide Superbike contender this year in Aaron Yates. He barely missed scoring a podium finish at Barber Motorsports Park in April. The team is hoping that Yates, or teammate Jake Holden, can finally give the team its long-awaited Superbike podium in Elkhart Lake. Road America’s AMA Superbike races will air on SPEED on Sunday, June 3. Saturday’s race will be shown at 2:00 pm Eastern and the Sunday’s race will broadcast live at 4:00 pm Eastern. Road America is not only popular with racers, it’s also a fan favorite. Tickets are available for the event, including a discount four-day Superticket. Order on-line at www.roadamerica.com or by phone at 1800-365-7223.

Marco Martinez Won Again With CCS Florida At Moroso Motorsports Park Memorial Day Weekend

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Martinez Biggest Winner CCS Florida at Moroso Motorsports Park May 28, 2007 By Lisa Theobald Marco Martinez was the biggest winner of the CCS Florida Memorial Day event at Moroso Motorsports Park. He took home four first-place trophies, more than any other competitor, and started and ended the day with victories, sharing the podium with fellow racers Michael Rouleau and Lars Remsen in both races. The first victory for Martinez came in the Expert GTO race. Martinez methodically worked his way to the front of the pack and went to battle for the lead with Rouleau as the halfway flag came out. After passing the leader, Martinez put his head down, opened a gap, and never looked back. Rouleau finished second and Remsen third. In the final race of the day, the Unlimited Grand Prix, Greg Melka had nailed the holeshot and led most of the first lap, but Martinez was close behind and looking for a way around. He made his passing move at the entrance to turn eleven, put his head down again, opened a gap and left the battle for second place behind him. Rouleau had maneuvered into second place early in the race and was able to hold back the rest of the field. Martinez took the checkered flag without challenge and was followed by Rouleau and Remsen. On the podium, Marco stated, “I’m very happy for this win. I needed to put my head down and tried to be as smooth as I can, and that was the game plan.” Remsen, who celebrated his birthday at the races, also celebrated a victory in the Unlimited Supersport race. Martinez also won the Middleweight Supersport and Unlimited Superbike events after taking early leads in both classes. Andres Londono was the second biggest winner of the day with three first place finishes. He won the Expert GTU, Middleweight Superbike and Heavyweight Superbike races. UNLIMITED GRAND PRIX RESULTS: 1. Marco Martinez (GSX-R1000); 2. Michael Rouleau (GSX-R1000); 3. Lars Remsen (GSX-R1000); 4. Greg Melka (GSX-R1000); 5. Sean Dwyer (YZF-R6); 6. Andres Londono (YZF-R6); 7. Carl Cohen (GSX-R1000); 8. Alexander Miniaci (YZF-R6); 9. Michael Luke (GSX-R1000); 10. Charlie Mavros (YZF-R1)

Bridgestone Ready For Another MotoGP Battle On Michelin’s European Home Ground

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Bridgestone GP Briefing Round 6: Italy Tuesday 29 May 2007 Bridgestone Motorsport heads to the Mugello circuit for the Italian GP on the back of a trio of MotoGP wins on its tyres in recent weeks. After Casey Stoner’s double victory in Turkey and China, two of Bridgestone’s more difficult circuits in the past seasons, Chris Vermeulen used his wet weather tyres to good effect in Le Mans to secure his maiden premier class win and Suzuki’s first on Bridgestone tyres. While the recent successes have understandably boosted Bridgestone’s morale, the tyre manufacturer is still approaching each event on a race-by-race basis with the level of competition in MotoGP more intense than ever. The Bridgestone-shod Ducati team has traditionally excelled at their home circuit and provided the highest placed results on Bridgestone tyres in 2006. Sete Gibernau took pole, but it was team-mate Loris Capirossi who took Bridgestone race honours, converting his second place on the grid into second place in the race, just 0.5s from the winner. It was one of eight podiums and four runner-up positions of the 2006 season for the Italian rider. Tyre Talk with Hiroshi Yamada Bridgestone Motorsport Manager, Motorcycle Sport Department Q: What technical issues does Bridgestone have to consider for Mugello? A: “Mugello is one of the longest circuits on the calendar and one of the most technically demanding. We encounter a wide range of fast and slow corners, as well as the Rettilineo straight which demands a lot from engine performance. The entire lap is completed with a very high average speed and is extremely tough on tyres. For this reason, we will be bringing medium and hard compounds to deal with the demands that the circuit will place on tyre longevity. Of particular importance are the right-handers Arrabbiata and Scarperia, as well as the medium-speed left-hand Bucine corner coming on to the main straight.” Q: How does Bridgestone approach the Mugello and Catalunya back-to-back races? A: “The European season will really gain momentum with this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix in Mugello and I think the level of competition will really intensify over the coming weeks. There is not a lot of time between races and as we prepare for the Mugello race, we must also look forward to next week’s Catalunya GP in Spain, the first set of back-to-back races of the year. Despite the proximity of the races, we still treat each event separately from the other because the characteristics of the Mugello circuit and the Catalunya circuit warrant a different technical approach.” Q: Does Bridgestone’s form at Mugello last year give cause for optimism? A: “Our tyres were quite competitive in Mugello last year, both in qualifying and the race. The Ducatis were able to take first and second places on the grid and Loris Capirossi scored a strong second place just half-a-second from Valentino Rossi. Hopefully we can continue the run of strong results on our tyres this season after Casey Stoner’s wins in Turkey and China and Chris Vermeulen’s sensational win in France. However, we are not getting complacent and we remain focussed on precise preparations for each race and on continuing our tyre development during the season.” Riding Perspective with Honda Gresini’s Marco Melandri “I am very excited to be going to Mugello, my home GP, after our recent success in Le Mans. The home GP always gives a special feeling so it is going to be an enjoyable but hard weekend I am sure. Mugello is one of the most technical tracks we visit in the championship. My favourite parts are the big chicanes and the fast corners heading into the hairpin. Bridgestone has given us competitive tyres in the first five races of the season and they have seemed to perform well at Mugello in recent years, I believe, so I am sure they will do well this year with the 800cc bikes. We have been focussing a lot recently on the bike set-up and we have also worked on tyres. For Mugello, we will use the same type of tyre that we used in Le Mans, tyres that showed a good level of performance in the dry conditions, but the compounds will be adjusted to suit the technical characteristics of the Mugello track. I am looking forward to more success like we had in Le Mans at the last race, particularly in front of all the passionate Italian fans.” 2006 Flashback Race Winner Valentino Rossi Yamaha 42m39.610s Top Rider on Bridgestone (2nd) Loris Capirossi Ducati 42m40.185s Qualifying Pole Position and Top Rider on Bridgestone Sete Gibernau Ducati 1m48.969s

Cylinder Head Repair Service May Become Common As Motocross Singles Move Into Road Racing

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Millennium Technologies Introduces 4-Stroke Single Head Repair Millennium Technologies announces its 4-stroke single cylinder head repair services using their new simultaneous 5-axis computer numeric controlled cylinder head porting center and a new CNC seat guide machine. In the last ten years Millennium Technologies has established itself as a leader in plated cylinder repair. The new machines were installed April 1st to apply their expertise to 4-stroke single cylinder head repair. The process will resurrect damaged heads for a fraction of the cost of buy a new one. The 5-axis center uses computer control to accurately replicate any chamber designs. The new machine insures that your head will return exactly the way it was when it was new. A new CNC seat and guide machine delivers valve jobs better than OEM. This will help Millennium Technologies to keep their customers’ costs down while delivering higher, more consistent quality work to them. They also offer complete one sourcing for parts and an extensive list of preventative maintenance services. According to owner Chris Hackl, “It’s all about striving to have the best possible products.” For more information or to send your cylinder heads to Millennium Technologies, call 1-920-893-5595 or email [email protected].

Motorcycle Road Racer Mark Junge And Teammates Won A 12-Hour Mountain Bike Race Last Saturday

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Team Vesrah Brakes wins 12 hours of Gears 12 Hours of Gears Wisconsin Endurance Mountain Bike Series (WEMS) www.wemsseries.com Team Vesrah Brakes won the 12-hour Open 4-man team competition in the first WEMS race of the 2007 series, held May 26 in Kewaskum, Wisconsin. The team finished more than a lap ahead of the closest team in the long and grueling race, logging 163.2 miles with an average speed of 13.64 mph, and a total of 14,994 ft of elevation gained. This team was formed to promote Vesrah Bicycle Disc Brake pads now distributed by Trek Components Group; the team consisted of Mark Junge (current and 5-time WERA National Endurance Champion with Team Vesrah Suzuki), Ken Melville (former WERA National Endurance Class Champion), Mike Laney (former motorcycle road racer), along with mountain bike racer Mark McCrimmin. Vesrah has been making motorcycle brake pads since 1950, and has become one of the leading brake pad manufactures worldwide. More info at www.vesrah.com

Monday’s Practice Results From The Isle Of Man

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Isle of Man TT May 28, 2007 Practice Results: TT Superbike: 1. John McGuinness (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:06.77, 124.983 mph 2. Ian Hutchinson (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:19.31, 123.558 mph 3. Martin Finnegan (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:32.27, 122.118 mph 4. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:40.25, 121.248 mph 5. Adrian Archibald (Suz GSX-R1000), 18:42.74, 120.979 mph 6. Ryan Farquhar (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:47.06, 120.516 mph 7. Bruce Anstey (Suzuki GSX-R1000), 18:51.63, 120.028 mph 8. Davy Morgan (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:08.39, 118.277 mph 9. John Barton (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:10.41, 118.069 mph 10. Ian Pattinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:10.77, 118.032 mph 30. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R1), 20:03.06, 112.902 mph 44. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:54.65, 108.260 mph 47. Mark Miller (Apr RSV1000), 21:24.42, 105.751 mph Supersport Junior TT: 1. Conor Cummins (Yam YZF-R6), 18:51.40, 120.053 mph 2. Chris Palmer (Hon CBR600RR), 19:01.70, 118.970 mph 3. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR600RR), 19:14.86, 117.615 mph 4. Ian Pattinson (Hon CBR600RR), 19:22.32, 116.860 mph 5. Nigel Beattie (Yam YZF-R6), 19:25.48, 116.543 mph 6. Dan Stewart (Yam YZF-R6), 19:30.45, 116.048 mph 7. Ryan Farquhar (Kaw ZX-6R), 19:35.69, 115.530 mph 8. Adrian McFarland (Yam YZF-R6), 19:38.32, 115.272 mph 9. Shaun Harris (Suz GSX-R600), 19:57.20, 113.455 mph 10. Manfred Vogl (Yam YZF-R6), 20:01.44, 113.054 mph 23. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R6), 20:32.74, 110.184 mph 24. John McGuinness (Hon CBR600RR), 20:37.50, 109.760 mph 26. Martin Finnegan (Hon CBR600RR), 20:41.50, 109.406 mph 39. Michael Rutter (Kaw ZX-6R), 21:15.83, 106.462 mph 40. Mark Miller (Suz GSX-R600), 21:17.92, 106.288 mph 52. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR600RR), 21:36.56, 104.760 mph TT Superstock: 1. Bruce Anstey (Suz GSX-R1000), 18:39.31, 121.350 mph 2. Guy Martin (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:00.31, 119.115 mph 3. Paul Hunt (Yam YZF-R1), 19:00.36, 119.109 mph 4. Ryan Farquhar (Kaw ZX-10R), 19:09.29, 118.184 mph 5. Ian Pattinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:10.77, 118.032 mph 6. Mark Parrett (Yam YZF-R1), 19:18.44, 117.251 mph 7. Phil Stewart (Yam YZF-R1), 19:18.94, 117.201 mph 8. James McBride (Yam YZF-R1), 19:19.80, 117.113 mph 9. David Coughlan (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:30.90, 116.003 mph 10. Craig Atkinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:31.12, 115.982 mph 16. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:56.83, 113.490 mph 28. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R1), 20:26.61, 110.735 mph 34. Martin Finnegan (MV Agusta F4-1000), 20:36.80, 109.822 mph 38. Adrian Archibald (Suz GSX-R1000), 20:47.15, 108.911 mph 39. John McGuinness (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:47.59, 108.873 mph 42. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:54.65, 108.260 mph 47. Mark Miller (Apr RSV1000), 21:24.42, 105.751 mph

Jacobsen, Brunet Win USGPRU Races In West Virginia

Reigning 125cc National Champion Patrick P.J. Jacobsen and Canadian Eddy Brunet won the USGPRU Eastern Regional races Monday at Summit Point Raceway, in Summit Point, West Virginia. Celtic Racing’s Jacobsen, 13, came from behind to pass Veloce Racing’s Nobi Iso on the last lap to win the 40-rider 125cc race. Iso finished second on his Aprilia RS125R, while Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup competitor Kris Turner finished third on his Turner Cycles Honda RS125. Armour Bodies/Celtic Racing’s Eddy Brunet, 47, held off a determined challenge from pole-sitter Chris Pyles to win the 250cc Grand Prix by half a bikelength. Mark “Bigman” Kelly, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 250 pounds, finished third in the 23-bike event on his Celtic Racing TSR-framed Honda RS250. Defending USGPRU 250cc National Champion Alex Welsh and Todd Puckett crashed in turn one while fighting for third, causing the race to be stopped. Neither Welsh nor Puckett were able to make the restart of the race. USGPRU Eastern Regional Summit Point Raceway Summit Point, West Virginia May 28, 2007 Race Results: USGPRU 125cc: 1. Patrick P.J. Jacobsen (Hon RS125), 12 laps 2. Nobi Iso (Apr RS125R) 3. Kris Turner (Hon RS125) 4. Scott Smallwood (Hon RS125) 5. Cassidy Heiser (Hon RS125) 6. Mike Orien (Hon RS125) 7. Lloyd Ramsey (Hon RS125) 8. Steve Gorrell (Hon RS125) 9. Marle Eschman (Hon RS125) 10. John Hjelm (Hon RS125) 11. Miles Thornton (Hon RS125) 12. John Lemak (Hon RS125) 13. Dave Celento (Hon RS125) 14. Mike Aboyoun (Hon RS125) 15. Glen Pison (Hon RS125) 16. Tim Harrington (Hon RS125) 17. Jordan Reid (Hon RS125) 18. Bill Cole (Yam TZ 125) 19. John Klaras (Hon RS125) 20. Scott Thompson (Hon RS125) 21. Jonathan Shenk (Yam TZ125) 22. Tony Wang (Hon RS125) 23. Joshua Steinberg (Yam TZ125), -1 lap 24. Crystal Campagna (Hon RS125), -1 lap 25. Brian McLaughlin (Yam TZ125), -1 lap 26. Reet Das (Hon RS125), -1 lap 27. Andrew Anderson (Hon RS125), -1 lap 28. William Doran (Hon RS125), -1 lap 29. Mark Dennis (Hon RS125), -1 lap 30. Tomas Bohm (Hon RS125), -1 lap 31. Rebecca Henn (Hon RS125), -1 lap 32. Steven Belknap (Hon RS125), -1 lap 33. Scotty Van Hatten (Hon RS125), -1 lap 34. John Milliron (Hon RS125), -2 laps 35. Scott Moxey (Hon RS125), -5 laps, DNF 36. Allen Campbell (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 37. Chris Vest (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 38. Sam Clark (Yam TZ125), -11 laps, DNF 39. Bob Rothrock (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 40. Bill Clery (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF USGPRU 250cc: 1. Eddy Brunet (Hon RS250), 10 laps 2. Chris Pyles (Yam TZ250) 3. Mark Kelly (Hon RS250) 4. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250) 5. Daniele Lenarduzzi (Yam TZ250) 6. Mike Aboyoun (Hon RS250) 7. Des Conboy (Hon RS250) 8. Christopher Quillman (Yam TZ250) 9. Mark Stiles (Yam TZ250) 10. Patrick Dowd (Yam TZ250) 11. Kris Turner (Hon RS125) 12. Bruce Lind (Yam TZ250) 13. Thomas Fournier (Yam TZ250) 14. Jim Bergey (Hon RS250) 15. Dave Celento (Hon RS125) 16. Tony Wang (Hon RS250) 17. Jim Bonner (Yam TZ250) 18. Michael Danielson (Yam TZ250) 19. Andre Esser (Yam TZ250), -1 lap 20. Michael Rajotte (Yam TZ250), -4 laps, DNF 21. Allen Campbell (Yam TZ250), -5 laps, DNF 22. Todd Puckett (Yam TZ250), -7 laps, DNF, crash 23. Alex Welsh (Hon RS250), -7 laps, DNF, crash

Alstare Suzuki’s Publicist Comments On Rumors Linking Alstare, Kevin Schwantz And Ben Spies In 2008 MotoGP Series

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Alstare in MotoGP? By Kel Edge Maybe because of recent discussions regarding the proposed technical rule changes in World Superbikes, a lot of rumours have been circulating regarding Team Alstare’s plans for 2008 and beyond. At the start of the proposals to allow 1200 cc bikes to race in World Superbikes, Alstare Suzuki’s team manager Francis Batta was quite vocal against the changes unless certain factors could be put in place. At the time of writing, it is still not clear what the new rules are and if and how they need to be policed. At Silverstone recently, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team manager Paul Denning visited the team raising speculation that the Belgian based squad might enter MotoGP in the near future. Team Alstare have been a fixture in the paddock for some time and have introduced one of their own sponsors (Corona Extra) to the series as a title sponsor, so it is clear that Batta has been doing considerable work promoting the Superbike World Championship. Without Batta’s influence and contacts, the World Superbike paddock would be a very different place as, at the moment, their hospitality is the focal point in the paddock. Not only is it the official host of the ever-popular Paddock Show, but it is also the ‘unofficial’ meeting point for many riders and team personnel. It is well known that Dorna would love to have another ‘big’ team in MotoGP and certainly Alstare have the infrastructure and ability to take part in the series. Their Belgian workshops are in a class of their own and are good enough to house a Formula One team . Recent rumours have suggested a link between MotoGP, Team Alstare and former World 500c champion Kevin Schwantz. Schwantz has worked for Suzuki for years and could be seen as a natural figurehead/team manager or whatever for a new Suzuki MotoGP team, if that is what he and Suzuki have in mind for the future. So, could Schwantz work with Batta and Alstare ? Why not? Schwantz has known the Battas for years and it could be the making of a ‘dream team.’ Having additional Suzukis on the grid in MotoGP would be a attractive proposition to Dorna and also aid Suzuki’s development, but would Batta want to move to MotoGP if he was only to run a secondary effort? And would he take Max Biaggi or go for new riders? Biaggi has the experience, albeit not on the new bikes, but maybe MotoGP might see him as part of the ‘old generation’ and prefer young blood? While it is true that it costs a lot more to run in the GPs than it does to sustain a World Superbike effort, Alstare would be one of the few WSBK teams able to fund and run such an effort – maybe with Corona money as well. Nothing has been confirmed at the moment, but if Alstare Suzuki were to switch paddocks, it would be agreat and significant loss to World Superbikes – both in the short term and the future.

Jeff Wood, Estok Win ASRA Nationals Monday At Summit Point Raceway

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Bettencourts Yamaha’s Jeff Wood and Deeley Harley-Davidson/Buell’s Dave Estok won the ASRA National Championship races Memorial Day Monday at Summit Point Raceway, in Summit Point, West Virginia. Wood fought off challenges from Butler Machinery’s Robert Jensen to win the Factory Pro Sportbike, Superbike and Superstock races on his Dunlop-shod Yamahas. The wins extended Wood’s Championship point leads in each of the classes. Estok rode his Pirelli-equipped Buell XB-9R to win a flag-to-flag duel over Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Dan Bilansky by 0.211 second in the Thunderbike final. Thunderbike pole-sitter Bryan Bemisderfer was forced to sit out the Thunderbike race when his Harley-Davidson/Buell of Frederick XB-12R developed engine problems during Monday morning practice. ASRA Summit Point Raceway Summit Point, West Virginia May 28, 2007 Provisional Race Results: SUPERSTOCK: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R1), 12 laps; 2. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R750); 3. Andy Feuersthaler (Suz GSX-R1000); 4. David Loikits (Suz GSX-R1000); 5. Justin Marm (Suz GSX-R750); 6. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R1000), pitted; 7. Troy Meikle (Suz GSX-R1000); 8. Adrian Jones (Suz GSX-R1000); 9. Antal Halasz (Kaw Kaw ZX-10R); 10. Lloyd Bayley (Suz GSX-R1000); 11. Ivan Milan (Suz GSX-R1000); 12. Nate Panek (Kaw ZX-6R), -1 lap; 13. William Egge (Suz GSX-R750), -1 lap; 14. Charlie Coleman (Suz GSX-R1000), -11 laps, DNF, crash. SUPERBIKE: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R6); 2. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R600); 3. Michael Himmelsbach (Tri Daytona 675); 4. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R600); 5. Ryan Patterson (Yam YZF-R6); 6. Jonathan Lawrence (Suz GSX-R600); 7. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R); 8. Troy Meikle (Kaw ZX-6R); 9. Zsolt Veres (Yam YZF-R6); 10. Tony Kasper (Suz GSX-R600); 11. Chris Rockwell (Yam YZF-R6); 12. Anthony Caligiuri (Buell XB-RR), -1 lap; 13. Craig Moodie (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap; 14. Steve Kennedy (Hon CBR600RR), -1 lap; 15. Terry Taylor (Suz GSX-R600), -6 laps; 16. Bryan Bemisderfer (Buell XB-RR), -12 laps, DNF, mechanical; 17. Bret Garretson (Yam YZF-R6), -10 laps, DNF. THUNDERBIKE: 1. David Estok (Buell XB-9R); 2. Dan Bilansky (Buell (XB-12R); 3. Arnold Hastings (Suz SV650); 4. Joe Rozynski (Buell XB-12R); 5. Sam Rozynski (Buell XB-9R); 6. Alex Marshall (Suz SV650); 7. Jeff Gochonour (Buell XB-12R); 8. Ken Allen (Suz SV650); 9. David Granger (Buell XB-9R), -1 lap; 10. James Delk, Jr. (Buell XB-12R), -2 laps, DNF, mechanical; 11. Art Diaz (Buell XB-12R), -4 laps, DNF, mechanical; 12. Steve Keener (Duc 1000), -6 laps, DNF; 13. Darren James (Buell XB-9R), -9 laps, DNF, mechanical. FACTORY PRO SPORTBIKE PRESENTED BY STRAPLESS TRANSPORT SYSTEMS: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R6); 2. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R600); 3. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R600); 4. Jonathan Lawrence (Suz GSX-R600); 5. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R); 6. Troy Meikle (Kaw ZX-6R); 7. Tony Kasper (Suz GSX-R600); 8. Bob Michael (Suz GSX-R600); 9. Nate Panek (Kaw ZX-6R); 10. Steve Kennedy (Hon CBR600RR); 11. Meghan Stiles (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap; 12. Zsolt Veres (Yam YZF-R6).

Updated: What Happened With AFM At Infineon Raceway, Along With Assorted Other Press Releases Related To Memorial Day Weekend Races

With the AMA nationals taking place just one week before the event, several AFM racers were looking to carry the momentum and intensity into Round Three of the 2007 AFM Championship. While the gusts of wind blowing through the Sonoma Valley were a bit chilly, they did little to cool the heated action on the racetrack, with several fierce battles taking place at Infineon Raceway over the course of the day.

In the MDK Motorsports Formula Pacific race, it was Michael Earnest of Pacific Tracktime who grabbed the holeshot, starting the race strong after fighting suspension problems at the AMA national. Martin Szwarc was able to make his way past Earnest, putting his Pirelli-shod Rattlers Rock Racing GSX-R1000 at the front of the Formula Pacific race for the first time in his career, leading a six rider group that broke away from the rest of the field. Eventually, former AFM Number One David Stanton was able to take the lead on his Mach 1 Motorsports R1, taking the position from Szwarc on the brakes into the Turn 9 chicane. Szwarc slipped back another position to third after running wide on the exit of Turn 11, allowing Cory Call to take second on his MDK Motorsports GSX-R1000.

After a strong 13th place finish in the Superbike class at the AMA national just one week earlier, many were looking for Call to challenge Stanton, who was going progressively stronger on his Yamaha after spending several years on Suzukis. But as the race went on, Stanton put his head down and extended his lead, eventually going on to take his second straight Formula Pacific win. Call a regular rider at Pacific Tracktime trackdays crossed the line in second, with Martin Szwarc in third, his first visit to the Formula Pacific winner’s circle.

“It was a good race Martin was fast in some areas, I was fast in other areas, and he was riding really hard,” said Stanton from the winner’s circle. “I was able to get past him in Turn 9, I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it at first! The wind was a problem out there, for the last five laps I didn’t even have to use the brakes going into the Carousel! This Yamaha R1 has been great, Jeff Leggitt of Mach 1 Motorsports has been helping me out, and KC at BRG Racing has been awesome, he does all my dyno work, and keeps this thing running fast!”

In only his second weekend on his new 2007 GSX-R1000, Szwarc had one of the most successful weekends of his career. In addition to his third place finish in Formula Pacific, Szwarc was able to take the win in the GP Frame and Wheel Open Grand Prix race over Andy Carman and former AFM Number One Rob Mesa, with a third place finish in the Take it 2 the Track Open Production race as well as the Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike race.

“I had a great weekend four races and four podiums, I can’t complain about that!” said Szwarc. “The Pirellis were working great this weekend for Formula Pacific I put on a used front slick from last weekend and a DOT rear, and they worked phenomenally. It’s my second weekend on the new bike, and I was working all last weekend on setup, so I came out here just knowing it was going to be better than my old bike. I have to thank Mike Canfield at Roseville Cycle for helping me tune this thing, and my mechanic Kirk from my team, Rattlers Rock Racing. With four races this past weekend, I needed all the help I could get!”

Carrying the momentum from a 13th place finish in the Superbike class at the AMA national, Cory Call started the day strong, taking a third in the Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production race and a win in the Take it 2 the Track Open Production before his second place finish in Formula Pacific. After being docked a lap for starting from the wrong grid position in the R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike race, Call came back like a man on a mission, finishing the day by winning the Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike race and the Scuderia West Formula 1 race.

“It’s amazing how fast these bikes are off the showroom floor,” said Call. “Both of my bikes are bone stock slip on, power commander, stock shock, stock valving, stock springs, and I haven’t even touched the clickers on one of them. I’m on a severely tight budget this year, MDK and Folsom have hooked me up to the hilt. I’m working there, I’m representing, just trying to make Northern California look good! The 750 is my girlfriend Suzanne’s bike, we both do trackdays with Pacific Tracktime, and if I set the bike up for me, it wouldn’t work for her because she’s so light. She’s the only girl I know who can drag elbow!”

Brian Parriott put in several strong performances on the day riding his San Jose BMW R1200S, taking home a total of three wins, starting in the Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production race, with Kenny Carlotta finishing second and Cory Call third. In the R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike race, he beat the GSX-R750s of second place finisher Garry Combs and third place finisher David Bell. In the Desmoto Sport Open Twins race, Parriott pulled out to an early lead, beating the Ducati 999s of second place finisher Craig McLean and third place finisher Patrick Blackburn.

“My San Jose BMW R1200S was on the gas, and the crew at San Jose BMW really had their work cut out for them,” said Parriott. “It’s a Moto-ST bike, and the limit there is 118 horsepower, so we’re probably making a little closer to 114-115. The bike puts new meaning to the phrase ‘Putting your head down’ I’ve been dragging the cylinder heads in Turn 2, Turn 5, and Turn 11 all weekend long! The Pirelli tires were working great, and we’ve been riding the wheels off of this thing, and it’s all thanks to the tuning from the guys at San Jose BMW.”

In the Teresa McKinney Realtor Formula 40 class, it was Mike Thompson who took the win, riding a Suzuki GSX-R1000 after spending two seasons on a Yamaha R1. Spencer Stuart who put in a pair of strong performances in the recent AMA national challenged Thompson early on his Yamaha R6, but was unable to hold the pace as Thompson gradually pulled away as the race went on. Stuart crossed the line in second, with Jeff Gruetter third.

“I got the holeshot, saw some open track, and felt like I was gonna pull away, but going into Turn 11 I saw Spencer’s wheel and though ‘Uh oh, I gotta go!” said Thompson. “I’ve got to thank the guys at Desmoto Sport for doing the forks on my bike. The bike worked good, the tires worked good, it was good stuff! I can’t wait for Bud to get back up to speed, it’s amazing he’s even out there after that accident he had a few months ago. That guy is my idol! “

The Formula 3 class featured its third winner in three rounds, with LRRS racer Zack Courts taking the win over Debra Barton on an NFS Racing RS125 borrowed from new west coast transplant and former LRRS 125 champion, Eric Yoo. After exchanging the lead several times with Courts, Barton settled in to finish second, with Michael Aron third.

“Everyone in that lead pack was pretty fast, and I was fortunate enough to get a good start and tag along with them right away,” said Courts. “I seemed to have a little more on corner entry than Deb did, but she came out of corners well and had a fast bike I was having trouble keeping up for sure! I have to thank my friend Eric Yoo I’m just visiting this weekend, so I’m riding his motorcycle, staying at his apartment, and eating his food before I fly back on Tuesday!”

In the 250 Production class, Adam Klinger looked to bounce back from a crash in Round Two, but found himself with a challenge in the form of Brandon Merkel. The pair traded positions several times over the course of the race, but in the end it was Merkel who prevailed on his Pirelli-shod Santa Rosa Superbikes DRZ400SM, as his ability on the brakes proved to be too much for the motor of Klinger’s Honda VTR250.

“I think I started last, but the singles start really well, so by Turn 2 I was up to 3rd place or so,” said Merkel. “It took me a couple of laps to track Adam down he’s a tough competitor and had motor on me, but I made up for it on the brakes. We probably exchanged the lead about 10 or so times my plan was to take him on the brakes 7, 9, and 11, and hopefully kill his drives, so that maybe I could get a chance to break away and gap him. All those braking areas are key for the Supermoto.”

The next round of AFM action is scheduled to take place on July 7th and 8th at Thunderhill Raceway.

AFM Round 3 May 27, 2007 Infineon Raceway Unofficial Results

MDK Motorsports Formula Pacific 1. David Stanton (Yam 1000) 2. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. Michael Earnest (Suz 1000) 5. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 6. David Bell (Suz 1000)

Fremont Honda Kawasaki Open Superbike 1. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 2. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. David Bell (Suz 1000) 5. James J. King (Suz 1000) 6. Christopher Weiss (Suz 1000)

R Tech Fuels 750 Superbike 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 3. David Bell (Suz 750) 4. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 5. Kim Nakashima (Suz 750)

Pacific Track Time 600 Superbike 1. Jeff Tigert (Hon 600) 2. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 3. Richard Corey (Yam 600) 4. Grant Riggs (Suz 600) 5. Zenzo Tazawa (Suz 600) 6. Matt Eccleston (Yam 600)

Alpine RV 450 Superbike 1. Michael Lohmeyer (Hon 400) 2. Richard Moore (Yam 442) 3. Yoav Damti (Yam 450) 4. Jonathan Forman (Suz 500) 5. Bob Simmons (Hon 400) 6. Ed Haazer (Hon 400)

250 Superbike 1. Andrew Duafala (Yam 250) 2. Joe Rust (Yam 250) 3. Johnny Radavero (Yam 250) 4. Brandon Merkel (Suz 400) 5. Sean Pagel (Apr 250) 6. Steve Mandeville (Yam 250)

Take it 2 the Track Open Production 1. Cory Call (Suz 1000) 2. James Randolph (Suz 1000) 3. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 4. David Stanton (Yam 1000) 5. Grant Riggs (Suz 1000) 6. James J. King (Suz 1000)

Suzuki of Oakland 750 Production 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Kenny Carlotta (Suz 600) 3. Cory Call (Suz 750) 4. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 5. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 6. Ken Hill (Suz 750)

Keigwins@theTrack 600 Production 1. Chris Siglin (Suz 600) 2. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 3. Richard Corey (Yam 600) 4. Zenzo Tazawa (Suz 600) 5. Stuart Spencer (Yam 600) 6. Berto Wooldridge (Suz 600)

450 Production 1. Mark Elrod (Hon 400) 2. John Berntsen (Hon 400) 3. Kathy Kuwaye (Hon 400)

250 Production 1. Brandon Merkel (Suz 400) 2. Adam Klinger (Hon 250) 3. Thomas Dorsey (Suz 400) 4. Warren Metlitzky (Kaw 250) 5. Susan Urquhart (Hon 250) 6. Carmela Eager-Stowe (Kaw 250)

GP Frame and Wheel Open Grand Prix 1. Martin Szwarc (Suz 1000) 2. Rob Mesa (Suz 1000) 3. Andy Carman (Suz 1000) 4. Christopher Weiss (Suz 1000) 5. Mike Thompson (Suz 1000) 6. Shawnery Hardin (Suz 1000)

Scuderia West Formula 1 1. Cory Call (Suz 750) 2. Scott Wilson (Suz 750) 3. Garry Combs (Suz 750) 4. David Bell (Suz 750) 5. Brant Wiwi (Yam 600) 6. Stan Riner (Suz 750)

Shawn Herrera Formula 2 1. Jeffry Hanford (Hon 250) 2. Dan Cook (Yam 250) 3. Brian Hoffman (Hon 250) 4. Shawn Herrera (Yam 250) 5. Dante D’Ambruoso (Yam 250) 6. Richard Denman (Hon 250)

Formula 3 1. Zack Courts (Hon 125) 2. Debra Barton (Hon 125) 3. Michael Aron (Hon 125) 4. Jeff Lim (Hon 125) 5. Hodaka Kajita (Hon 125)

Race-Oil.com AMSOIL Formula 4 1. Jeff Hagan (Suz 650) 2. David Civiello (Suz 650) 3. Dan Sewell (Suz 650) 4. Jay Kinberger (Suz 650) 5. Michael Lohmeyer (Hon 400) 6. David Raff (Suz 650)

Desmoto Sport Open Twins 1. Brian Parriott (BMW 1200) 2. Craig McLean (Duc 999) 3. Patrick Blackburn (Duc 999) 4. Matthew Green (Duc 999) 5. Simon Williams (Duc 999) 6. Lance Williams (Duc 749)

Foremost Insurance 650 Twins 1. Jeff Hagan (Suz 650) 2. Dan Sewell (Suz 650) 3. Kevin Heiss (Suz 650) 4. William Fox (Suz 650) 5. David Civiello (Suz 650) 6. David Raff (Suz 650)

500 Twins 1. Jonathan Forman (Suz 500) 2. Mickey Fimbres (Kaw 500) 2. Eric Karl Schiller (Kaw 500) 4. Leonard Barker Jr (Kaw 500)

Formula Singles 1. Robert Black (Hon 450) 2. Clay Hassinger (ATK 598)

Teresa McKinney Realtor Formula 40 1. Mike Thompson (Suz 1000) 2. Spencer Stuart (Yam 600) 3. Jeff Gruetter (Hon 1000) 4. Bud Anderson (Suz 1000) 5. Jeff Smith (Suz 1000) 6. Rick McDaniel (Suz 1000)

Vintage 1. David Crussel (Kaw 748) 2. Richard Haas (Duc 748) 3. Michael Polkabla (Hon 160) 4. Wallace Riddle (Hon 160) 5. Ryan Imboden (Yam 350)

Clubman Lightweight 1. Robert Black (Hon 450) 2. Ben Swiggett (Suz 650) 3. David Canzano (Suz 650) 4. Peter Le Duc (Hon 125) 5. Norman Smith (Kaw 250) 6. Clay Hassinger (ATK 598)

Clubman Middleweight 1. Tim Hansen (Suz 750) 2. Brian Huskamp (Yam 600) 3. Elijah Jackson (Suz 600) 4. Ricardo Vizcaino (Yam 600) 5. Chad Covington (Hon 600) 6. Brian Davis (Yam 600)

Clubman Heavyweight 1. Steve Harrison (Yam 1000) 2. John Proctor (Suz 750) 3. Guy Hyder (Hon 954) 4. Keith Tashiro (Suz 1000) 5. Brendan Lahiff (Suz 750) 6. Thomas Hurray (Duc 748)

More, from a press release issued by Buell:

ESTOK RIDES BUELL TO VICTORY AT ASRA THUNDERBIKE NATIONAL

Bilansky is Second at Summit Point; Buell Racers Take Four of Top Five Positions

SUMMIT POINT, W.V. (May 28, 2007) Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing’s David Estok made a dramatic last-lap pass of Hal’s H-D/Buell Hal’s Speed Shop’s Dan Bilansky to win the third round of the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) Pro Thunderbike series at Summit Point Motorsports Park. Both riders were aboard Buell Firebolt XB12R motorcycles.

“I couldn’t be more happy with this win,” said Estok. “I’ve never won a pro race at this track and it’s been really frustrating for me. The Deeley team put a great Buell under me today and I was able to find a way to pass Dan one more time before the finish.”

To take the win, Estok first had to recover from a bad start in the 10-lap Thunderbike National that put him back in the pack while Bilansky, the defending ASRA Thunderbike champion, took the early lead. Estok caught Bilansky on lap four, and the pair of Buell riders then traded the lead position for the next six laps, racing side-by-side as neither was able to gain a significant advantage. On the final lap, Estok passed Bilansky for the lead and was able to open a gap of about four bike lengths as he recorded his best Thunderbike lap time of the weekend. Estok took the win by just 0.211 seconds. Arnold Hastings finished third aboard a Suzuki SV, followed by Buell riders Joe Rozynski (Sound Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop) and Sam Rozynski (Sound Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop).

H-D/Buell of Frederick rider Bryan Bemisderfer earned the pole for the Thunderbike National with a lap time of 1:18.359 on the two-mile Summit Point road course, but did not start the race after his motorcycle developed a mechanical problem during Monday morning practice. Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing rider Darren James, second in Thunderbike points coming into the Summit Point event, dropped out after two laps with a mechanical problem.

After three of eight ASRA Pro Thunderbike rounds, Bilansky has 88 points to lead the series, followed by Estok with 82.

In Championship Cup Series (CCS) sprint racing on Sunday, Art Diaz rode a Buell Firebolt XB12R to win the GT Lights Expert class, while Bemisderfer, Estok and James swept the podium in the Thunderbike Expert class. On Monday, Diaz rode his Buell to victory in the CCS Lightweight Superbike Expert class.

The next event on the eight-race 2007 ASRA Pro Thunderbike series schedule is the VIR Festival of Speed, June 23-24 at Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.

Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, produces sport motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. For the Buell dealer nearest you, pull into www.buell.com.

More, from a press release issued by Tim Knutson:

KNUTSON LEADING 2 CLASSES AFTER ROUND 2 OF WERA WEST AT CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY

Tim Knutson wins A Superbike and finished 5th in Formula 1 on an Evan Steel Performance Kawasaki ZX10R as WERA West returned to California Speedway for Rd 2 of the series making up for the winded out event in January.

The Formula 1 race saw Tim get off to great start coming out of turn 1 in 2nd and led to couple of back and forth lead changes with Eddie Barrajas til they reached the long front straight as Tim watch Eddie’s monster GSXR K7 pull away, only to have Tim catch back up to the rear wheel in the infield. The two repeated this act til the halfway mark when Jason Perez got into the mix first passing Tim and then getting by Eddie to win the race. The ZX10 developed a bad chatter entering corners on the brakes. Tim held on for 5th, which was good enough to give him the Formula 1 points lead. After the race an inspection of the forks showed a leaky fork seal that was causing the chatter. “Well there’s not much I can do about the forks right now, I’ve got another race in 30 minutes” said Tim between races. “I know what it’s going to give me right now, it’s not great by any stretch but it’s ridable”

Armed with the knowledge that the ZX10 was lacking the all out power of the Suzuki’s, Tim had to employ a different race strategy for the A Superbike race. Tim got off to another great start, this time grabbing the holeshot. Despite being shown a couple of front wheels on the first lap, Tim was able to lead the first lap and get back to the infield first. Using the infield advantage Tim was able to hold on to lead lap after lap. Just past halfway the red flag came out as Oscar Gonzalez highsided his GSXR out of the final corner, giving Tim the victory. “Well I hope Oscar is ok, my plan worked out this time as leading through the infield was the only way I was gonna hold off the GSXR’s on the long front straight. The chatter was still there like I knew it would be but it’s manageable when you know it’s coming.”

Tim was forced to ride the ZX10 as his Suzuki is awaiting parts after his lowside at Phoenix leading the Unlimited GP. “The ESP ZX10 is a great bike but it ain’t no Suzuki that’s about all I have to say about that.”

More, from a press release issued by Aquino Motorsports:

Tommy Aquino, after only racing his Graves Motorsports R6 three times, won his first race at the WERA West round at California Speedway this Memorial weekend. Tommy placed 1st in the 750 Superbike Expert class starting from the 6th row. He also placed second in both his 600 Superbike and Superstock Expert races. Thanks to all that support him.

More, from a press release issued by FNB Racing:

(Portland, Oregon) – FNB Racing’s young gun, Peter Lenz batted 1,000 as he won 6 heats and 6 mains, led every lap, and took every holeshot in NMRRA’s motorcycle road racing action this past weekend. After racing five events in California and a Canadian National, road racing’s rising star came back to a track that he knew well. Living in Fort Vancouver, WA, USA the track used by NMRRA in McMinnville, Oregon is as close as it gets for the young road racer.

At the recommendation of Peter’s riding coach, Keith Code, author of The Twist of the Wrist series and coach to such champion riders as Wayne Rainey, Doug Chandler, Ben Bostrom, Peter has been making as many stops within driving distance to gain experience across Western North America. Over the past several months Peter and his Dad have traveled over 10,000 miles to attend races looking for the challenges of new tracks and talented riders to compete with at his level. Peter rode his Metrakit Canada supplied bike in his private coaching session with Keith Code earlier this month and the impact was immediate. Upon Peter’s return to the McMinnville track he was running record lap times in his first practice while reacquainting himself with the track.

Peter was true to form as he took pole, earned every holeshot, led every lap and won all six classes he entered. This weekend he ran smart, conserving himself and his equipment. “I just put my head down and rode hard for the first couple laps until I had a gap, then I would back off a bit to make sure I didn’t use up my bike. The gearing Vortex Racing sent was good. It was good to have the right gearing after Willow and Stratotech where I had ran out. Thanks Lee,” commented Lenz.

This weekend saw Peter giving valuable feedback to FNB Racing team owner, Justin Watkins, who was running Peter’s three bikes this weekend. “I let Peter run the show. He was really good at communicating what was going on with the bikes. I made the adjustments he asked for and we went from there,” explained Watkins. “Peter’s father normally runs his bikes but wasn’t able to attend this weekend due to medical reasons. I was happy to help one of my rider’s out. It was a change from my responsibilities with AMA Timing and Scoring and my FNB Racing sprint and endurance teams. I have known Peter since he was three, back when his father rode on my team. FNB Racing has been supporting Peter since he gave up the dirt and went to asphalt. I see what we are doing here but in an earlier phase with the same type of program Celtic Racing has been doing with PJ Jacobson with similar success. Peter brought our team its first national championship last year and he is leading the 2007 series right now as well. I believe he has the potential to do something special if given the support,” explained Watkins.

You can learn more about Peter and his goals on his website at www.peterlenz.com and about FNB Racing at www.fnb-racing.com.

More, from a press release issued by Mojotown:

Where: Infineon Raceway When: May 27th, 2007 Organization: American Federation of Motorcycles – AFM Class: Formula III (125 GP)

Michael Aron aboard his Mojotown Honda RS125 proved that he could run the pace to win the race by setting lap times that were quicker than the previous race winners lap times at the same track. He had hoped to get out in front and run away with a victory but his plans were quickly changed when he missed a shift going into turn two letting two other slip past him.

On the 4th lap while running in 3rd place the race was black flagged and a 6 lap restart was in order. Michael again took the hole shot and opened up a few bike length lead and was able to keep people behind him for the first lap. However due to a lack of time on 125’s and miss judging his brake markers he let one person slip by.

Eventually one more rider would slip by him to relegate him to third place. Michael made one move to take back second place but it was short lived riding against two LRRS riders now riding with the AFM.

Michael stayed within reach of the leaders but was unable to make any late race attempts to make any passing for a higher podium spot and finished 3rd ahead of Jeff Lim who Aron was tied with in the points.

Michael is now leading the championship in the Formula III class with a 5 point margin. The season is sure to be an exciting one to follow with very close racing.

More, from a press release issued by MotoSix:

Aaron Clark & MotoSix Win Big at Hastings Motorsports Park

Under cloudy skies and a threat of rain all weekend, MotoSix riders Dave Gallant and Aaron Clark dug deep to take home 8 podium finishes and a big win with the MRA at Hastings Motorsports Park.

Aaron Clark was the big winner of the weekend winning the MRA”s premier class coined “Race of the Rockies”. With a large purse and contingency monies up for grabs and riders such as Mike Smith, Shawn Conrad, David Anthony, and Chad Lewin in attendance, the fastest of the fast were setting their sites on that prize.

“The layout of this track is fantastic and it presents a variety of different challenges throughout each lap. Since the surface is so new it is extremely abrasive and we spent the entire weekend learning how help the Pirelli tires cope with the immense traction available. Our pre-race testing paid off, and with the help of GP Suspension components and Dave Rose of Single Track Mind, we came up with a great overall setup for my 2007 Fay Myers Suzuki GSXR 1000. In the end, we really figured out how to use all of the amazing grip the new Diablo Superbike and Supercorsa tires have to offer to win the big races. and I couldn”t be more pleased how the season is progressing” commented Aaron Clark.

When asked about his Race of the Rockies race, Aaron added, “Yesterday I tried to break away too early, and unfortunately was not able to build up enough of a gap to maintain it to the end. Today my plan was to sit in 2nd place for the majority of the race and preserve the bike for a hard charge at the end. With 4 laps to go I saw my opportunity, siezed it, and put my head down until the end. These guys pushed me really hard today and they all rode an incredible race”

Dave Gallant put in more strong rides in Heavyweight Supersport and Heavyweight Superbike throughout the weekend, putting his Suzuki on the podium three times.

“I have never ridden on a track surface so new and, like everyone else out here, I was really overworking the tire. I was able to work through it however and although my setup is drastically different than the one that works for Clarkie, on the smaller displacement bikes it has proven very successful in preserving the tire and providing great rider feedback. The SBS Dual Carbon pads were also a big help this weekend as they let me trail brake deeper and deeper as the weekend went on, and that was a big advantage in many corners. In all my races I rode hard with some very fast company, and am looking forward to getting to the next race and applying our new setup knowledge” commented Dave Gallant of MotoSix Motorsports.

MotoSix riders Aaron Clark and David Gallant will compete next with the Masters of the Mountains series at Miller Motorsports Park on June 9th and 10th.

AMA Pro Racing Previews This Coming Weekend’s Superbike Races At Road America

AMA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP TIED COMING INTO ROAD AMERICA PICKERINGTON, Ohio (May 29, 2007) Road America is set to host one of the hottest rivalries in AMA Superbike Championship racing history. With the Suzuki Superbike Doubleheader on June 1-3, at the scenic four-mile circuit in Elkhart Lake, Wis., fans will have the opportunity to see a battle royale between Superbike’s top two riders defending champ Ben Spies, of Longview, Texas, and six-time AMA Superbike title holder Australian Mat Mladin. After seven rounds the Yoshimura Suzuki duo are tied for the series lead a rarity coming into mid-season. Road America has been hosting AMA Superbike races since 1980, but not since the days of Eddie Lawson vs. Freddie Spencer in the early 1980s or Wayne Rainey vs. Kevin Schwantz in the late ’80s, has there been such an intense rivalry in the championship. Not only have there been superb duels on the track, the two have also traded verbal jabs in the press. Mladin often claiming he was not on top of his game last year when his domination was broken by Spies, and Spies saying that he receives no respect from his more veteran racing colleague. Now the drama-filled series moves to the high-speed Road America, a track where Mladin has claimed six of his record 56-career AMA Superbike wins. The Aussie sensation is coming off a sweep of the doubleheader at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., on May 19-20. “It was a great weekend for us,” Mladin said of the last round. “We’re looking to getting up to Road America, to a racetrack that I really enjoy a lot. As far as for me, it’s one of my favorites, because of the speed, and the type of corners they have. So I’m looking forward to getting up there. It was good to get two wins at Infineon, to close up the points, and we’ll head up to Wisconsin in a couple of weeks.” Even though Spies has yet to earn a Superbike win in Elkhart Lake, he seems up for the challenge the longest track in the series presents. “It was a little frustrating [at Infineon Raceway], but speed-wise we weren’t too bad,” Spies said. “We weren’t quite as quick, obviously, but it wasn’t demoralizing, just a little frustrating. So we’re going to Road America. I’ve never won there, but it’s my favorite track, for sure, and hopefully we can turn that around there.” Between them, Mladin and Spies have won every race so far this season. The rider who most frequently keeps the Suzuki riders in sight is veteran Honda rider and five-time Road America Superbike winner Miguel Duhamel. The Montreal native, who now calls Las Vegas home, is third in the rankings, 41 points behind the leaders. “Obviously Road America has been one of the strongest tracks for me over the years,” said Duhamel, who swept the doubleheader there in 2002. “It’s been really tough to have such a great bike in my Honda CBR1000RR and still not have a win to my credit. I’m hoping we can change that real soon.” Eric Bostrom is another former Road America winner. Bostrom is back in Superbike with the factory Yamaha squad. Yamaha’s return to Superbike racing has been marked by moments of excellence, especially early in races. Bostrom, and his teammate Jason DiSalvo, are hoping to find the combination to put Yamaha back atop the Road America Superbike podium for the first time in six years. Like Yamaha, Kawasaki has gone through a long dry spell at Road America. Roger Hayden and Jamie Hacking are now piloting the Monster Energy-back Kawasaki ZX-10Rs and both say the bikes have the speed, now they have to perfect the handling. The long straights at Road America could play right into the strengths of their bikes. Eraldo Ferracci experienced success at Road America in the early-to-mid 1990s with his riders Doug Polen, Pascal Picotte and Alessandro Gramigni. Now Ferracci is fielding a new Superbike team running MV Agustas with Italian Luca Scassa and Georgian Matt Lynn. The exotic MV Superbikes have been steadily improving as the season progresses. This will be the home race for the Jordan Suzuki team. The Chicago-based squad has a bona fide Superbike contender this year in Aaron Yates. He barely missed scoring a podium finish at Barber Motorsports Park in April. The team is hoping that Yates, or teammate Jake Holden, can finally give the team its long-awaited Superbike podium in Elkhart Lake. Road America’s AMA Superbike races will air on SPEED on Sunday, June 3. Saturday’s race will be shown at 2:00 pm Eastern and the Sunday’s race will broadcast live at 4:00 pm Eastern. Road America is not only popular with racers, it’s also a fan favorite. Tickets are available for the event, including a discount four-day Superticket. Order on-line at www.roadamerica.com or by phone at 1800-365-7223.

Marco Martinez Won Again With CCS Florida At Moroso Motorsports Park Memorial Day Weekend

Martinez Biggest Winner CCS Florida at Moroso Motorsports Park May 28, 2007 By Lisa Theobald Marco Martinez was the biggest winner of the CCS Florida Memorial Day event at Moroso Motorsports Park. He took home four first-place trophies, more than any other competitor, and started and ended the day with victories, sharing the podium with fellow racers Michael Rouleau and Lars Remsen in both races. The first victory for Martinez came in the Expert GTO race. Martinez methodically worked his way to the front of the pack and went to battle for the lead with Rouleau as the halfway flag came out. After passing the leader, Martinez put his head down, opened a gap, and never looked back. Rouleau finished second and Remsen third. In the final race of the day, the Unlimited Grand Prix, Greg Melka had nailed the holeshot and led most of the first lap, but Martinez was close behind and looking for a way around. He made his passing move at the entrance to turn eleven, put his head down again, opened a gap and left the battle for second place behind him. Rouleau had maneuvered into second place early in the race and was able to hold back the rest of the field. Martinez took the checkered flag without challenge and was followed by Rouleau and Remsen. On the podium, Marco stated, “I’m very happy for this win. I needed to put my head down and tried to be as smooth as I can, and that was the game plan.” Remsen, who celebrated his birthday at the races, also celebrated a victory in the Unlimited Supersport race. Martinez also won the Middleweight Supersport and Unlimited Superbike events after taking early leads in both classes. Andres Londono was the second biggest winner of the day with three first place finishes. He won the Expert GTU, Middleweight Superbike and Heavyweight Superbike races. UNLIMITED GRAND PRIX RESULTS: 1. Marco Martinez (GSX-R1000); 2. Michael Rouleau (GSX-R1000); 3. Lars Remsen (GSX-R1000); 4. Greg Melka (GSX-R1000); 5. Sean Dwyer (YZF-R6); 6. Andres Londono (YZF-R6); 7. Carl Cohen (GSX-R1000); 8. Alexander Miniaci (YZF-R6); 9. Michael Luke (GSX-R1000); 10. Charlie Mavros (YZF-R1)

Bridgestone Ready For Another MotoGP Battle On Michelin’s European Home Ground

Bridgestone GP Briefing Round 6: Italy Tuesday 29 May 2007 Bridgestone Motorsport heads to the Mugello circuit for the Italian GP on the back of a trio of MotoGP wins on its tyres in recent weeks. After Casey Stoner’s double victory in Turkey and China, two of Bridgestone’s more difficult circuits in the past seasons, Chris Vermeulen used his wet weather tyres to good effect in Le Mans to secure his maiden premier class win and Suzuki’s first on Bridgestone tyres. While the recent successes have understandably boosted Bridgestone’s morale, the tyre manufacturer is still approaching each event on a race-by-race basis with the level of competition in MotoGP more intense than ever. The Bridgestone-shod Ducati team has traditionally excelled at their home circuit and provided the highest placed results on Bridgestone tyres in 2006. Sete Gibernau took pole, but it was team-mate Loris Capirossi who took Bridgestone race honours, converting his second place on the grid into second place in the race, just 0.5s from the winner. It was one of eight podiums and four runner-up positions of the 2006 season for the Italian rider. Tyre Talk with Hiroshi Yamada Bridgestone Motorsport Manager, Motorcycle Sport Department Q: What technical issues does Bridgestone have to consider for Mugello? A: “Mugello is one of the longest circuits on the calendar and one of the most technically demanding. We encounter a wide range of fast and slow corners, as well as the Rettilineo straight which demands a lot from engine performance. The entire lap is completed with a very high average speed and is extremely tough on tyres. For this reason, we will be bringing medium and hard compounds to deal with the demands that the circuit will place on tyre longevity. Of particular importance are the right-handers Arrabbiata and Scarperia, as well as the medium-speed left-hand Bucine corner coming on to the main straight.” Q: How does Bridgestone approach the Mugello and Catalunya back-to-back races? A: “The European season will really gain momentum with this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix in Mugello and I think the level of competition will really intensify over the coming weeks. There is not a lot of time between races and as we prepare for the Mugello race, we must also look forward to next week’s Catalunya GP in Spain, the first set of back-to-back races of the year. Despite the proximity of the races, we still treat each event separately from the other because the characteristics of the Mugello circuit and the Catalunya circuit warrant a different technical approach.” Q: Does Bridgestone’s form at Mugello last year give cause for optimism? A: “Our tyres were quite competitive in Mugello last year, both in qualifying and the race. The Ducatis were able to take first and second places on the grid and Loris Capirossi scored a strong second place just half-a-second from Valentino Rossi. Hopefully we can continue the run of strong results on our tyres this season after Casey Stoner’s wins in Turkey and China and Chris Vermeulen’s sensational win in France. However, we are not getting complacent and we remain focussed on precise preparations for each race and on continuing our tyre development during the season.” Riding Perspective with Honda Gresini’s Marco Melandri “I am very excited to be going to Mugello, my home GP, after our recent success in Le Mans. The home GP always gives a special feeling so it is going to be an enjoyable but hard weekend I am sure. Mugello is one of the most technical tracks we visit in the championship. My favourite parts are the big chicanes and the fast corners heading into the hairpin. Bridgestone has given us competitive tyres in the first five races of the season and they have seemed to perform well at Mugello in recent years, I believe, so I am sure they will do well this year with the 800cc bikes. We have been focussing a lot recently on the bike set-up and we have also worked on tyres. For Mugello, we will use the same type of tyre that we used in Le Mans, tyres that showed a good level of performance in the dry conditions, but the compounds will be adjusted to suit the technical characteristics of the Mugello track. I am looking forward to more success like we had in Le Mans at the last race, particularly in front of all the passionate Italian fans.” 2006 Flashback Race Winner Valentino Rossi Yamaha 42m39.610s Top Rider on Bridgestone (2nd) Loris Capirossi Ducati 42m40.185s Qualifying Pole Position and Top Rider on Bridgestone Sete Gibernau Ducati 1m48.969s

Cylinder Head Repair Service May Become Common As Motocross Singles Move Into Road Racing

Millennium Technologies Introduces 4-Stroke Single Head Repair Millennium Technologies announces its 4-stroke single cylinder head repair services using their new simultaneous 5-axis computer numeric controlled cylinder head porting center and a new CNC seat guide machine. In the last ten years Millennium Technologies has established itself as a leader in plated cylinder repair. The new machines were installed April 1st to apply their expertise to 4-stroke single cylinder head repair. The process will resurrect damaged heads for a fraction of the cost of buy a new one. The 5-axis center uses computer control to accurately replicate any chamber designs. The new machine insures that your head will return exactly the way it was when it was new. A new CNC seat and guide machine delivers valve jobs better than OEM. This will help Millennium Technologies to keep their customers’ costs down while delivering higher, more consistent quality work to them. They also offer complete one sourcing for parts and an extensive list of preventative maintenance services. According to owner Chris Hackl, “It’s all about striving to have the best possible products.” For more information or to send your cylinder heads to Millennium Technologies, call 1-920-893-5595 or email [email protected].

Motorcycle Road Racer Mark Junge And Teammates Won A 12-Hour Mountain Bike Race Last Saturday

Team Vesrah Brakes wins 12 hours of Gears 12 Hours of Gears Wisconsin Endurance Mountain Bike Series (WEMS) www.wemsseries.com Team Vesrah Brakes won the 12-hour Open 4-man team competition in the first WEMS race of the 2007 series, held May 26 in Kewaskum, Wisconsin. The team finished more than a lap ahead of the closest team in the long and grueling race, logging 163.2 miles with an average speed of 13.64 mph, and a total of 14,994 ft of elevation gained. This team was formed to promote Vesrah Bicycle Disc Brake pads now distributed by Trek Components Group; the team consisted of Mark Junge (current and 5-time WERA National Endurance Champion with Team Vesrah Suzuki), Ken Melville (former WERA National Endurance Class Champion), Mike Laney (former motorcycle road racer), along with mountain bike racer Mark McCrimmin. Vesrah has been making motorcycle brake pads since 1950, and has become one of the leading brake pad manufactures worldwide. More info at www.vesrah.com

Monday’s Practice Results From The Isle Of Man

Isle of Man TT May 28, 2007 Practice Results: TT Superbike: 1. John McGuinness (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:06.77, 124.983 mph 2. Ian Hutchinson (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:19.31, 123.558 mph 3. Martin Finnegan (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:32.27, 122.118 mph 4. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:40.25, 121.248 mph 5. Adrian Archibald (Suz GSX-R1000), 18:42.74, 120.979 mph 6. Ryan Farquhar (Hon CBR1000RR), 18:47.06, 120.516 mph 7. Bruce Anstey (Suzuki GSX-R1000), 18:51.63, 120.028 mph 8. Davy Morgan (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:08.39, 118.277 mph 9. John Barton (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:10.41, 118.069 mph 10. Ian Pattinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:10.77, 118.032 mph 30. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R1), 20:03.06, 112.902 mph 44. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:54.65, 108.260 mph 47. Mark Miller (Apr RSV1000), 21:24.42, 105.751 mph Supersport Junior TT: 1. Conor Cummins (Yam YZF-R6), 18:51.40, 120.053 mph 2. Chris Palmer (Hon CBR600RR), 19:01.70, 118.970 mph 3. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR600RR), 19:14.86, 117.615 mph 4. Ian Pattinson (Hon CBR600RR), 19:22.32, 116.860 mph 5. Nigel Beattie (Yam YZF-R6), 19:25.48, 116.543 mph 6. Dan Stewart (Yam YZF-R6), 19:30.45, 116.048 mph 7. Ryan Farquhar (Kaw ZX-6R), 19:35.69, 115.530 mph 8. Adrian McFarland (Yam YZF-R6), 19:38.32, 115.272 mph 9. Shaun Harris (Suz GSX-R600), 19:57.20, 113.455 mph 10. Manfred Vogl (Yam YZF-R6), 20:01.44, 113.054 mph 23. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R6), 20:32.74, 110.184 mph 24. John McGuinness (Hon CBR600RR), 20:37.50, 109.760 mph 26. Martin Finnegan (Hon CBR600RR), 20:41.50, 109.406 mph 39. Michael Rutter (Kaw ZX-6R), 21:15.83, 106.462 mph 40. Mark Miller (Suz GSX-R600), 21:17.92, 106.288 mph 52. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR600RR), 21:36.56, 104.760 mph TT Superstock: 1. Bruce Anstey (Suz GSX-R1000), 18:39.31, 121.350 mph 2. Guy Martin (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:00.31, 119.115 mph 3. Paul Hunt (Yam YZF-R1), 19:00.36, 119.109 mph 4. Ryan Farquhar (Kaw ZX-10R), 19:09.29, 118.184 mph 5. Ian Pattinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:10.77, 118.032 mph 6. Mark Parrett (Yam YZF-R1), 19:18.44, 117.251 mph 7. Phil Stewart (Yam YZF-R1), 19:18.94, 117.201 mph 8. James McBride (Yam YZF-R1), 19:19.80, 117.113 mph 9. David Coughlan (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:30.90, 116.003 mph 10. Craig Atkinson (Suz GSX-R1000), 19:31.12, 115.982 mph 16. Ian Lougher (Hon CBR1000RR), 19:56.83, 113.490 mph 28. Steve Plater (Yam YZF-R1), 20:26.61, 110.735 mph 34. Martin Finnegan (MV Agusta F4-1000), 20:36.80, 109.822 mph 38. Adrian Archibald (Suz GSX-R1000), 20:47.15, 108.911 mph 39. John McGuinness (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:47.59, 108.873 mph 42. Jimmy Moore (Hon CBR1000RR), 20:54.65, 108.260 mph 47. Mark Miller (Apr RSV1000), 21:24.42, 105.751 mph

Jacobsen, Brunet Win USGPRU Races In West Virginia

Reigning 125cc National Champion Patrick P.J. Jacobsen and Canadian Eddy Brunet won the USGPRU Eastern Regional races Monday at Summit Point Raceway, in Summit Point, West Virginia. Celtic Racing’s Jacobsen, 13, came from behind to pass Veloce Racing’s Nobi Iso on the last lap to win the 40-rider 125cc race. Iso finished second on his Aprilia RS125R, while Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup competitor Kris Turner finished third on his Turner Cycles Honda RS125. Armour Bodies/Celtic Racing’s Eddy Brunet, 47, held off a determined challenge from pole-sitter Chris Pyles to win the 250cc Grand Prix by half a bikelength. Mark “Bigman” Kelly, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 250 pounds, finished third in the 23-bike event on his Celtic Racing TSR-framed Honda RS250. Defending USGPRU 250cc National Champion Alex Welsh and Todd Puckett crashed in turn one while fighting for third, causing the race to be stopped. Neither Welsh nor Puckett were able to make the restart of the race. USGPRU Eastern Regional Summit Point Raceway Summit Point, West Virginia May 28, 2007 Race Results: USGPRU 125cc: 1. Patrick P.J. Jacobsen (Hon RS125), 12 laps 2. Nobi Iso (Apr RS125R) 3. Kris Turner (Hon RS125) 4. Scott Smallwood (Hon RS125) 5. Cassidy Heiser (Hon RS125) 6. Mike Orien (Hon RS125) 7. Lloyd Ramsey (Hon RS125) 8. Steve Gorrell (Hon RS125) 9. Marle Eschman (Hon RS125) 10. John Hjelm (Hon RS125) 11. Miles Thornton (Hon RS125) 12. John Lemak (Hon RS125) 13. Dave Celento (Hon RS125) 14. Mike Aboyoun (Hon RS125) 15. Glen Pison (Hon RS125) 16. Tim Harrington (Hon RS125) 17. Jordan Reid (Hon RS125) 18. Bill Cole (Yam TZ 125) 19. John Klaras (Hon RS125) 20. Scott Thompson (Hon RS125) 21. Jonathan Shenk (Yam TZ125) 22. Tony Wang (Hon RS125) 23. Joshua Steinberg (Yam TZ125), -1 lap 24. Crystal Campagna (Hon RS125), -1 lap 25. Brian McLaughlin (Yam TZ125), -1 lap 26. Reet Das (Hon RS125), -1 lap 27. Andrew Anderson (Hon RS125), -1 lap 28. William Doran (Hon RS125), -1 lap 29. Mark Dennis (Hon RS125), -1 lap 30. Tomas Bohm (Hon RS125), -1 lap 31. Rebecca Henn (Hon RS125), -1 lap 32. Steven Belknap (Hon RS125), -1 lap 33. Scotty Van Hatten (Hon RS125), -1 lap 34. John Milliron (Hon RS125), -2 laps 35. Scott Moxey (Hon RS125), -5 laps, DNF 36. Allen Campbell (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 37. Chris Vest (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 38. Sam Clark (Yam TZ125), -11 laps, DNF 39. Bob Rothrock (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF 40. Bill Clery (Hon RS125), -11 laps, DNF USGPRU 250cc: 1. Eddy Brunet (Hon RS250), 10 laps 2. Chris Pyles (Yam TZ250) 3. Mark Kelly (Hon RS250) 4. Sean Wray (Yam TZ250) 5. Daniele Lenarduzzi (Yam TZ250) 6. Mike Aboyoun (Hon RS250) 7. Des Conboy (Hon RS250) 8. Christopher Quillman (Yam TZ250) 9. Mark Stiles (Yam TZ250) 10. Patrick Dowd (Yam TZ250) 11. Kris Turner (Hon RS125) 12. Bruce Lind (Yam TZ250) 13. Thomas Fournier (Yam TZ250) 14. Jim Bergey (Hon RS250) 15. Dave Celento (Hon RS125) 16. Tony Wang (Hon RS250) 17. Jim Bonner (Yam TZ250) 18. Michael Danielson (Yam TZ250) 19. Andre Esser (Yam TZ250), -1 lap 20. Michael Rajotte (Yam TZ250), -4 laps, DNF 21. Allen Campbell (Yam TZ250), -5 laps, DNF 22. Todd Puckett (Yam TZ250), -7 laps, DNF, crash 23. Alex Welsh (Hon RS250), -7 laps, DNF, crash

Alstare Suzuki’s Publicist Comments On Rumors Linking Alstare, Kevin Schwantz And Ben Spies In 2008 MotoGP Series

Alstare in MotoGP? By Kel Edge Maybe because of recent discussions regarding the proposed technical rule changes in World Superbikes, a lot of rumours have been circulating regarding Team Alstare’s plans for 2008 and beyond. At the start of the proposals to allow 1200 cc bikes to race in World Superbikes, Alstare Suzuki’s team manager Francis Batta was quite vocal against the changes unless certain factors could be put in place. At the time of writing, it is still not clear what the new rules are and if and how they need to be policed. At Silverstone recently, Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team manager Paul Denning visited the team raising speculation that the Belgian based squad might enter MotoGP in the near future. Team Alstare have been a fixture in the paddock for some time and have introduced one of their own sponsors (Corona Extra) to the series as a title sponsor, so it is clear that Batta has been doing considerable work promoting the Superbike World Championship. Without Batta’s influence and contacts, the World Superbike paddock would be a very different place as, at the moment, their hospitality is the focal point in the paddock. Not only is it the official host of the ever-popular Paddock Show, but it is also the ‘unofficial’ meeting point for many riders and team personnel. It is well known that Dorna would love to have another ‘big’ team in MotoGP and certainly Alstare have the infrastructure and ability to take part in the series. Their Belgian workshops are in a class of their own and are good enough to house a Formula One team . Recent rumours have suggested a link between MotoGP, Team Alstare and former World 500c champion Kevin Schwantz. Schwantz has worked for Suzuki for years and could be seen as a natural figurehead/team manager or whatever for a new Suzuki MotoGP team, if that is what he and Suzuki have in mind for the future. So, could Schwantz work with Batta and Alstare ? Why not? Schwantz has known the Battas for years and it could be the making of a ‘dream team.’ Having additional Suzukis on the grid in MotoGP would be a attractive proposition to Dorna and also aid Suzuki’s development, but would Batta want to move to MotoGP if he was only to run a secondary effort? And would he take Max Biaggi or go for new riders? Biaggi has the experience, albeit not on the new bikes, but maybe MotoGP might see him as part of the ‘old generation’ and prefer young blood? While it is true that it costs a lot more to run in the GPs than it does to sustain a World Superbike effort, Alstare would be one of the few WSBK teams able to fund and run such an effort – maybe with Corona money as well. Nothing has been confirmed at the moment, but if Alstare Suzuki were to switch paddocks, it would be agreat and significant loss to World Superbikes – both in the short term and the future.

Jeff Wood, Estok Win ASRA Nationals Monday At Summit Point Raceway

Bettencourts Yamaha’s Jeff Wood and Deeley Harley-Davidson/Buell’s Dave Estok won the ASRA National Championship races Memorial Day Monday at Summit Point Raceway, in Summit Point, West Virginia. Wood fought off challenges from Butler Machinery’s Robert Jensen to win the Factory Pro Sportbike, Superbike and Superstock races on his Dunlop-shod Yamahas. The wins extended Wood’s Championship point leads in each of the classes. Estok rode his Pirelli-equipped Buell XB-9R to win a flag-to-flag duel over Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Dan Bilansky by 0.211 second in the Thunderbike final. Thunderbike pole-sitter Bryan Bemisderfer was forced to sit out the Thunderbike race when his Harley-Davidson/Buell of Frederick XB-12R developed engine problems during Monday morning practice. ASRA Summit Point Raceway Summit Point, West Virginia May 28, 2007 Provisional Race Results: SUPERSTOCK: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R1), 12 laps; 2. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R750); 3. Andy Feuersthaler (Suz GSX-R1000); 4. David Loikits (Suz GSX-R1000); 5. Justin Marm (Suz GSX-R750); 6. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R1000), pitted; 7. Troy Meikle (Suz GSX-R1000); 8. Adrian Jones (Suz GSX-R1000); 9. Antal Halasz (Kaw Kaw ZX-10R); 10. Lloyd Bayley (Suz GSX-R1000); 11. Ivan Milan (Suz GSX-R1000); 12. Nate Panek (Kaw ZX-6R), -1 lap; 13. William Egge (Suz GSX-R750), -1 lap; 14. Charlie Coleman (Suz GSX-R1000), -11 laps, DNF, crash. SUPERBIKE: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R6); 2. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R600); 3. Michael Himmelsbach (Tri Daytona 675); 4. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R600); 5. Ryan Patterson (Yam YZF-R6); 6. Jonathan Lawrence (Suz GSX-R600); 7. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R); 8. Troy Meikle (Kaw ZX-6R); 9. Zsolt Veres (Yam YZF-R6); 10. Tony Kasper (Suz GSX-R600); 11. Chris Rockwell (Yam YZF-R6); 12. Anthony Caligiuri (Buell XB-RR), -1 lap; 13. Craig Moodie (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap; 14. Steve Kennedy (Hon CBR600RR), -1 lap; 15. Terry Taylor (Suz GSX-R600), -6 laps; 16. Bryan Bemisderfer (Buell XB-RR), -12 laps, DNF, mechanical; 17. Bret Garretson (Yam YZF-R6), -10 laps, DNF. THUNDERBIKE: 1. David Estok (Buell XB-9R); 2. Dan Bilansky (Buell (XB-12R); 3. Arnold Hastings (Suz SV650); 4. Joe Rozynski (Buell XB-12R); 5. Sam Rozynski (Buell XB-9R); 6. Alex Marshall (Suz SV650); 7. Jeff Gochonour (Buell XB-12R); 8. Ken Allen (Suz SV650); 9. David Granger (Buell XB-9R), -1 lap; 10. James Delk, Jr. (Buell XB-12R), -2 laps, DNF, mechanical; 11. Art Diaz (Buell XB-12R), -4 laps, DNF, mechanical; 12. Steve Keener (Duc 1000), -6 laps, DNF; 13. Darren James (Buell XB-9R), -9 laps, DNF, mechanical. FACTORY PRO SPORTBIKE PRESENTED BY STRAPLESS TRANSPORT SYSTEMS: 1. Jeff Wood (Yam YZF-R6); 2. Robert Jensen (Suz GSX-R600); 3. Shane Narbonne (Suz GSX-R600); 4. Jonathan Lawrence (Suz GSX-R600); 5. Scott Greenwood (Kaw ZX-6R); 6. Troy Meikle (Kaw ZX-6R); 7. Tony Kasper (Suz GSX-R600); 8. Bob Michael (Suz GSX-R600); 9. Nate Panek (Kaw ZX-6R); 10. Steve Kennedy (Hon CBR600RR); 11. Meghan Stiles (Yam YZF-R6), -1 lap; 12. Zsolt Veres (Yam YZF-R6).