FIRST PERSON/OPINION Vie e-mail: Free Motorcycle Parking in Montgomery County Maryland Thanks to George Leventhal, we now have a new law that allows for free motorcycle parking in county-run parking facilities. See link to new law below. Devin Battley Battley Cycles Gaithersburg, Maryland ~http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/council/pdf/SCANNED_DOCS/47-06.pdf~
FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: Bill Ritger, 53, head of the Midwest Safety Crew, passed away this evening. Bill had been battling liver cancer since last summer. Bill managed the cornerworking group for the Midwest region CCS races since 2000. Before that he worked as a cornerworker for several years. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Claudia, his mother, siblings and other family members. Services are pending and will be announced as soon as possible. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Rainbow Hospice (rainbowhospicecare.org) or the Red Flag Fund (redflagfund.org). R.I.P. my friend, Gordon Lunde Milwaukee, Wisconsin More, from a reader: FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I knew Bill, he was the first person I worked with at VIR. He and Claudia taught me a lot on my first adventure in cornerworking, and I learned something new every time after that. I know he will be missed. God Speed, my friend. Donald Franke Dallas, Georgia
Sidi and Vesrah Suzuki team up again in 2007! Vesrah Suzuki and its team riders of Lee Acree, Tray Batey, John Jacobi and Mark Junge have recently re-uped with Sidi boots for the 2007 season. Lee, Tray and Mark will all be using Sidi’s legendary Vertigo Corsa boot in their quest for additional championships in 2007. For additional information please log onto www.motonation.com
DUCATI NORTH AMERICA REPORTS A RECORD YEAR IN 2006 Exciting new motorcycles and events delivered excellent showroom results throughout United States and Canada in 2006 Cupertino, CA (January 10, 2007) 2006 was another record setting year for sales of Ducati Motorcycles in North America. At year end, over 8100 motorcycles had been retail registered, which translated to a 16% increase in sales over 2005. The sales growth was accompanied by the launch of the Desmosedici RR street replica, the all new 1098 Superbike, the Hypermotard, and Troy Bayliss’s championship winning season in World Superbike. The sales growth was led by the Canadian market, which was up over 50% for Ducati and has managed to effectively triple Ducati sales since 2004. The hard work put in by the Ducati Canada staff has paid off with exponential sales growth, and also with industry ranking: Ducati is now one of the two best selling European Motorcycle brands in Canada. Retail sales were led by the Monster family and the new 2007 Monster 695, which began delivery to customers in May and continues to be one of the top selling models. The top selling Ducati in 2006 was the Monster S2R 1000, in its debut year. In 2006, Ducati MRP (Motorcycle Related Products) revenue was driven by unique promotions such as the Ducati fashion night, where the 2007 apparel line was launched via a fashion night party at dealers. A combination of unique and stylish products has led to an increase of over 40% in the clothing business and 25% in accessories. “Everyone at Ducati North America and the dealer network have been working hard to achieve these fantastic results. Our success in 2006 shows that we are still building on the forward momentum which began in 2004.” said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. “I am really looking forward to 2007, and feel the February introduction of our revolutionary new Superbike family and the summer arrivals or the Hypermotard and Desmosedici RR will continue to fuel the fire.” Founded in 1926 Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport, Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and the new SportClassic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.ducatiusa.com.
AMA RACING CONTINUING TO REDUCE SOUND AT SUPERCROSS/MOTOCROSS EVENTS PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Jan. 10, 2007) In an ongoing effort to control excessive sound at AMA Supercross and Motocross events AMA Racing officials have implemented new sound testing procedures beginning with last weekend’s start of the 2007 Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series. The effort coincides with reduced overall sound limits for the two racing disciplines. Random post-race testing will be performed in addition to routine pre-race sound testing of all entries. According to AMA Racing Sr. Director of Technical Development Kevin Crowther, the new rules and testing are having an immediate, beneficial result. “At Anaheim 1, all 101 entries were tested during tech inspection and most competitors were within a 96 to 98 dB/a range,” said Crowther. “At the conclusion of the event we measured the top three finishers plus one at random in both classes and found that in all cases competitors were within the acceptable limits.” 2007 AMA Supercross/Motocross rules state that motorcycles must meet sound limits of 99 dB/a in pre-race tech inspection and 101 dB/a in post-race inspection. 2006 rules called for a 102 dB/a pre-race limit only. Sound testing is performed in accordance with the SAE J1287 sound test procedure which is the accepted industry standard. Crowther added that AMA officials also measured sound from seating areas in Angel Stadium and, compared to similar tests performed in 2006, there was a decrease in sound of approximately three dB/a. “We are pleased that AMA professional riders and teams are supporting responsible sound limits,” said Ed Moreland, AMA Vice President of Government Affairs. “Reducing excessive sound at MX and SX events is a very important step toward an overall reduction in excessive motorcycle sound. We are hopeful that the results of these new limits and their active enforcement will demonstrate to recreational riders and amateur racers that they don’t necessarily have to be louder to be faster.” Moreland added that by embracing a proactive philosophy of responsible sound management, AMA Racing hopes to foster an appreciation for reasonable sound limits and the positive effect they will have on the entire riding community. Current sound rules will be enforced in both the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series as well as the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF. It is expected that future rules will call for a further reduction in sound limits. About AMA Racing AMA Racing is the competition arm of the American Motorcyclist Association and is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its professional properties include the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series, the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF, the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited, the AMA Ford Quality Checked Flat Track Championship, the AMA Supermoto Championship and the AMA Pro ATV Championship. In amateur and pro-am competition, AMA Racing sanctions over 4000 events in 24 different disciplines and supports over 110 thousand active members. For more information about professional racing, visit www.amaproracing.com. Accredited media outlets can also access an on line Press Room at www.amaproracing.com/pressroom. For amateur racing information visit www.amadirectlink.com/amrace/amasports.asp.
CMRA ANNOUNCES 2007 RACE SCHEDULE The Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association is pleased to announce their schedule for the 2007 CMRA Championship race season. The CMRA is pleased to be returning to No Problem Raceway in Belle Rose, Louisiana after having to cancel last year’s event due to the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and the lack of hotel and visitor accommodations associated with the rebuilding efforts. February 16-18, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX March 16-18, No Problem Raceway, Belle Rose, LA April 13-15, Texas World Speedway, College Station, TX May 18-20, Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, Hallett, OK June 8-10, MotorSport Ranch, Cresson, TX July 6-8, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX July 27-29, Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, Hallett, OK August 24-26, MotorSport Ranch, Cresson, TX September 28-30, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX October 26-28, Texas World Speedway, College Station, TX Founded in 1974, Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) is an independent, non-profit organization with over 700 members. CMRA organizes and promotes motorcycle road races throughout the South Central region of the United States. For 2007, the ten CMRA events will feature sprint racing for Novice and Expert status riders, a seven-round endurance series of 4 to 8-hour-long races, mini-bike racing for riders as young as 8 years old, and an accredited new riders school. The many world and national champions who began racing with CMRA include Colin Edwards, Nicky Hayden, Tommy Hayden, Jamie James, John Kocinski, Sam McDonald, Doug Polen, Kevin Schwantz, Freddie Spencer, Ben Spies and Britt Turkington. For more information, visit www.cmraracing.com or call 817-377-1599.
FIM Releases Provisional World Superbike Calendar Jan 10, 2007 From a press release issued by the FIM: Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock FIM Cup 2007 provisional calendar The 2007 calendar of the Superbike and Supersport World Championships will count 14 rounds, of which one is still to be announced. The calendar is the following : Superbike/Supersport World Championships Date, Country, Circuit, X = Superstock Included February 24*, Qatar, Doha/Losail March 4, Australia, Phillip Island April 1, Europe, Donington Park, X April 15, Spain, Valencia, X April 29, Netherlands, Assen, X May 13, Italy, Monza, X May 27, Great-Britain, Silverstone, X June 17, San Marino, Misano, X July 8, TBA July 22, Czech Rep., Brno, X August 5, Great-Britain, Brands Hatch, X September 9, Germany, Eurospeedway Lausitz, X September 30, Italy, Vallelunga, X October 7, France, Magny-Cours, X * Saturday race
TEAM NB (formerly Vivaldi Racing) Team NB (Naturally Best) confirm their plans for the 2007 British Superbike Championship. With now securing funds from Naturally Best and support from Suzuki, Team Manager Norris Farrow, confirms the rider line up for 2007. “After considering very carefully the future and long term plans for the team, we are pleased to announce that the Bridewell brothers, Ollie and Tommy, will be riding our Suzuki superbikes for Team NB in the 2007 British Superbike Championship. We continue to support the youth of the industry and by doing so, hopefully enhance their future opportunities” said Farrow. After competing in BSB in 2006, his rookie year, which included his best result of 8th at Donington, Ollie (21) comments: “To get another season with the team is a dream come true, as I didn’t think it would happen, I intend to repay their faith many times over and can’t wait to put into practice what I’ve learnt in my time with the team. I’m not planning on letting anyone down and I’m really looking forward to getting back on the bike”. Meanwhile, Tommy (18) is looking forward to making the transition into British Superbikes after competing last year aboard the Vivaldi Supersport machine: “I’m mega happy to be moving into British Superbikes and it is my hope to make a good impression from the start. I’m under no illusions as to the task in hand and having Ollie in the team will be a bonus as I can measure my performance against his. I’m not setting unrealistic goals, I just want to do my best and I’m sure the results will come.” At present, Team NB are planning their test schedule prior to the first round at Brands Hatch on Easter weekend (9th April). For further information, please contact Team Manager Norris Farrow on 01205 821033
SBK CORONA EXTRA SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP® PIRELLI TEST PHILLIP ISLAND 13-14-15 JANUARY PREVIEW Rome, Wednesday 10th January 2007 NEW SEASON BUILD UP INTENSIFIES With the 20th season of the World Superbike Championship about to commence at Doha, Qatar, on 24 February, the final Pirelli development test of the off-season (Phillip Island between 13 and 15 January) takes on a particular significance for all of the Development Teams. One designated development team represents each competing manufacturer, to ensure that the latest generations of Pirelli tyres are thoroughly tested before they are put into volume production. At this stage of the pre-season build up, the test is also a valuable opportunity for all the riders and teams to make firm decisions on the path of machine development and set-up for the new season, especially for those who have all-new machinery to test. BAYLISS AND CORSER ON HOME TARMAC With most Australian riders having to take a permanent base in Europe during their race careers any visit to Phillip Island is always an opportunity for them to visit family and friends – with the added benefit of knowing that their home circuit is one of the best motorcycle racing venues in the world. The leading two Aussie competitors Troy Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) and Troy Corser (Yamaha Motor Italia) are both double SBK world champions, with Corser champion in 1996 and 2005, and Bayliss the victor in 2001 and 2006. Bayliss was fastest man in the most recent Pirelli Development Team test at Doha, but Corser is adapting well to the new challenge in his first year as a Yamaha Superbike rider, on the all-new YZF-R1. Bayliss will be joined at this test by Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) with Corser teamed-up in 2007 with the perennial SBK force, Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia). TOSELAND AND BIAGGI OUT TO SPIKE THE AUSSIE GUNS For 2004 World Champion James Toseland (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) and new SBK inductee Max Biaggi (Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) the Aussie duo of Bayliss and Corser will be good benchmarks to measure their overall performance by, and in testing each rider has already shown a great desire to make 2007 their year. Toseland, on a modified version of his 2006 machine, is now something of an SBK veteran, even if he is still only 26, but vastly experienced MotoGP rider Biaggi is a rookie to the SBK class in 2007. TO complicate things further, Biaggi has a new GSX-R1000 to help develop, alongside his team-mate, proven SBK race winner, Yukio Kagayama (Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra). Toseland is joined in 2007 by the formidable talents of Italian rider, Roby Rolfo (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda). KAWASAKI DUO AIMING FOR INCREASED DYNAMISM Now a two-man team for the 2007 season, the PSG-1 Kawasaki Corse duo of Spaniard Fonsi Nieto and Frenchman Regis Laconi have already impressed on the year-old ZX-10 Kawasaki, and are looking to Phillip Island as another opportunity to turn speed into consistent speed over race distance, in readiness for round two the championship at the Aussie venue in March 2007. SUPERSPORT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP With an all new Honda CBR600RR and the lions’ share of the 2006 race wins to their credit, few expect the 2005 and 2006 World Supersport champion Sebastien Charpentier (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) and multiple 2006 race winner Kenan Sofuoglu (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) to be on anything except the leading pace at PI, in what will be the new machine’s first real outing against its impressive peer group. The PI challenge will most likely come from two European-based Aussie riders, Kevin Curtain and Broc Parkes, from the official Yamaha team, but you can never count out the Ducati Supersport phenomenon that is Gianluca Nannelli. The special relationship between Nannelli, his Ducati 749R and his SC Caracchi team is now legendary in World Supersport, keeping the ageing twin-cylinder 750ccc machine competitive in a way few other riders can manage. A welcome return of a full factory Kawasaki effort sees the GIL Motorsports Kawasaki squad firmly in place at Phillip Island, with their riders 2002 champion Fabien Foret and always-impressive Pere Riba on the latest spec of 600cc Kawasaki.
Now when you purchase a 2007 American Roadracer MotoGP and AMA Superbike calendar, you can decide if 20% of your purchase price goes to the Roadracing World Action Fund or to the Red Flag Fund. The Roadracing World Action Fund advocates and promotes the use of soft barriers to prevent racetrack injuries and the Red Flag Fund helps injured racers with medical bills. All you have to do is go to www.AmericanRoadracer.com and purchase a calendar. When checking out use– “¢Coupon Code: RWAF to donate 20% to theAirfence Action Fund -or- “¢Coupon Code: RFF to donate 20% for the Red Flag Fund. The 2007 American Roadracer calendar is a high-quality, large-format wall calendar featuring over 60 amazing action photos of the best American road racers in MotoGP and AMA Superbike. The calendar is published by racers who care about the sport and the people in it.
FIRST PERSON/OPINION Vie e-mail: Free Motorcycle Parking in Montgomery County Maryland Thanks to George Leventhal, we now have a new law that allows for free motorcycle parking in county-run parking facilities. See link to new law below. Devin Battley Battley Cycles Gaithersburg, Maryland ~http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/council/pdf/SCANNED_DOCS/47-06.pdf~
FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: Bill Ritger, 53, head of the Midwest Safety Crew, passed away this evening. Bill had been battling liver cancer since last summer. Bill managed the cornerworking group for the Midwest region CCS races since 2000. Before that he worked as a cornerworker for several years. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Claudia, his mother, siblings and other family members. Services are pending and will be announced as soon as possible. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Rainbow Hospice (rainbowhospicecare.org) or the Red Flag Fund (redflagfund.org). R.I.P. my friend, Gordon Lunde Milwaukee, Wisconsin More, from a reader: FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I knew Bill, he was the first person I worked with at VIR. He and Claudia taught me a lot on my first adventure in cornerworking, and I learned something new every time after that. I know he will be missed. God Speed, my friend. Donald Franke Dallas, Georgia
Sidi and Vesrah Suzuki team up again in 2007! Vesrah Suzuki and its team riders of Lee Acree, Tray Batey, John Jacobi and Mark Junge have recently re-uped with Sidi boots for the 2007 season. Lee, Tray and Mark will all be using Sidi’s legendary Vertigo Corsa boot in their quest for additional championships in 2007. For additional information please log onto www.motonation.com
DUCATI NORTH AMERICA REPORTS A RECORD YEAR IN 2006 Exciting new motorcycles and events delivered excellent showroom results throughout United States and Canada in 2006 Cupertino, CA (January 10, 2007) 2006 was another record setting year for sales of Ducati Motorcycles in North America. At year end, over 8100 motorcycles had been retail registered, which translated to a 16% increase in sales over 2005. The sales growth was accompanied by the launch of the Desmosedici RR street replica, the all new 1098 Superbike, the Hypermotard, and Troy Bayliss’s championship winning season in World Superbike. The sales growth was led by the Canadian market, which was up over 50% for Ducati and has managed to effectively triple Ducati sales since 2004. The hard work put in by the Ducati Canada staff has paid off with exponential sales growth, and also with industry ranking: Ducati is now one of the two best selling European Motorcycle brands in Canada. Retail sales were led by the Monster family and the new 2007 Monster 695, which began delivery to customers in May and continues to be one of the top selling models. The top selling Ducati in 2006 was the Monster S2R 1000, in its debut year. In 2006, Ducati MRP (Motorcycle Related Products) revenue was driven by unique promotions such as the Ducati fashion night, where the 2007 apparel line was launched via a fashion night party at dealers. A combination of unique and stylish products has led to an increase of over 40% in the clothing business and 25% in accessories. “Everyone at Ducati North America and the dealer network have been working hard to achieve these fantastic results. Our success in 2006 shows that we are still building on the forward momentum which began in 2004.” said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. “I am really looking forward to 2007, and feel the February introduction of our revolutionary new Superbike family and the summer arrivals or the Hypermotard and Desmosedici RR will continue to fuel the fire.” Founded in 1926 Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport, Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and the new SportClassic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.ducatiusa.com.
AMA RACING CONTINUING TO REDUCE SOUND AT SUPERCROSS/MOTOCROSS EVENTS PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Jan. 10, 2007) In an ongoing effort to control excessive sound at AMA Supercross and Motocross events AMA Racing officials have implemented new sound testing procedures beginning with last weekend’s start of the 2007 Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series. The effort coincides with reduced overall sound limits for the two racing disciplines. Random post-race testing will be performed in addition to routine pre-race sound testing of all entries. According to AMA Racing Sr. Director of Technical Development Kevin Crowther, the new rules and testing are having an immediate, beneficial result. “At Anaheim 1, all 101 entries were tested during tech inspection and most competitors were within a 96 to 98 dB/a range,” said Crowther. “At the conclusion of the event we measured the top three finishers plus one at random in both classes and found that in all cases competitors were within the acceptable limits.” 2007 AMA Supercross/Motocross rules state that motorcycles must meet sound limits of 99 dB/a in pre-race tech inspection and 101 dB/a in post-race inspection. 2006 rules called for a 102 dB/a pre-race limit only. Sound testing is performed in accordance with the SAE J1287 sound test procedure which is the accepted industry standard. Crowther added that AMA officials also measured sound from seating areas in Angel Stadium and, compared to similar tests performed in 2006, there was a decrease in sound of approximately three dB/a. “We are pleased that AMA professional riders and teams are supporting responsible sound limits,” said Ed Moreland, AMA Vice President of Government Affairs. “Reducing excessive sound at MX and SX events is a very important step toward an overall reduction in excessive motorcycle sound. We are hopeful that the results of these new limits and their active enforcement will demonstrate to recreational riders and amateur racers that they don’t necessarily have to be louder to be faster.” Moreland added that by embracing a proactive philosophy of responsible sound management, AMA Racing hopes to foster an appreciation for reasonable sound limits and the positive effect they will have on the entire riding community. Current sound rules will be enforced in both the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series as well as the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF. It is expected that future rules will call for a further reduction in sound limits. About AMA Racing AMA Racing is the competition arm of the American Motorcyclist Association and is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its professional properties include the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series, the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF, the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited, the AMA Ford Quality Checked Flat Track Championship, the AMA Supermoto Championship and the AMA Pro ATV Championship. In amateur and pro-am competition, AMA Racing sanctions over 4000 events in 24 different disciplines and supports over 110 thousand active members. For more information about professional racing, visit www.amaproracing.com. Accredited media outlets can also access an on line Press Room at www.amaproracing.com/pressroom. For amateur racing information visit www.amadirectlink.com/amrace/amasports.asp.
CMRA ANNOUNCES 2007 RACE SCHEDULE The Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association is pleased to announce their schedule for the 2007 CMRA Championship race season. The CMRA is pleased to be returning to No Problem Raceway in Belle Rose, Louisiana after having to cancel last year’s event due to the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and the lack of hotel and visitor accommodations associated with the rebuilding efforts. February 16-18, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX March 16-18, No Problem Raceway, Belle Rose, LA April 13-15, Texas World Speedway, College Station, TX May 18-20, Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, Hallett, OK June 8-10, MotorSport Ranch, Cresson, TX July 6-8, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX July 27-29, Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, Hallett, OK August 24-26, MotorSport Ranch, Cresson, TX September 28-30, Oak Hill Raceway, Henderson, TX October 26-28, Texas World Speedway, College Station, TX Founded in 1974, Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) is an independent, non-profit organization with over 700 members. CMRA organizes and promotes motorcycle road races throughout the South Central region of the United States. For 2007, the ten CMRA events will feature sprint racing for Novice and Expert status riders, a seven-round endurance series of 4 to 8-hour-long races, mini-bike racing for riders as young as 8 years old, and an accredited new riders school. The many world and national champions who began racing with CMRA include Colin Edwards, Nicky Hayden, Tommy Hayden, Jamie James, John Kocinski, Sam McDonald, Doug Polen, Kevin Schwantz, Freddie Spencer, Ben Spies and Britt Turkington. For more information, visit www.cmraracing.com or call 817-377-1599.
FIM Releases Provisional World Superbike Calendar Jan 10, 2007 From a press release issued by the FIM: Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock FIM Cup 2007 provisional calendar The 2007 calendar of the Superbike and Supersport World Championships will count 14 rounds, of which one is still to be announced. The calendar is the following : Superbike/Supersport World Championships Date, Country, Circuit, X = Superstock Included February 24*, Qatar, Doha/Losail March 4, Australia, Phillip Island April 1, Europe, Donington Park, X April 15, Spain, Valencia, X April 29, Netherlands, Assen, X May 13, Italy, Monza, X May 27, Great-Britain, Silverstone, X June 17, San Marino, Misano, X July 8, TBA July 22, Czech Rep., Brno, X August 5, Great-Britain, Brands Hatch, X September 9, Germany, Eurospeedway Lausitz, X September 30, Italy, Vallelunga, X October 7, France, Magny-Cours, X * Saturday race
TEAM NB (formerly Vivaldi Racing) Team NB (Naturally Best) confirm their plans for the 2007 British Superbike Championship. With now securing funds from Naturally Best and support from Suzuki, Team Manager Norris Farrow, confirms the rider line up for 2007. “After considering very carefully the future and long term plans for the team, we are pleased to announce that the Bridewell brothers, Ollie and Tommy, will be riding our Suzuki superbikes for Team NB in the 2007 British Superbike Championship. We continue to support the youth of the industry and by doing so, hopefully enhance their future opportunities” said Farrow. After competing in BSB in 2006, his rookie year, which included his best result of 8th at Donington, Ollie (21) comments: “To get another season with the team is a dream come true, as I didn’t think it would happen, I intend to repay their faith many times over and can’t wait to put into practice what I’ve learnt in my time with the team. I’m not planning on letting anyone down and I’m really looking forward to getting back on the bike”. Meanwhile, Tommy (18) is looking forward to making the transition into British Superbikes after competing last year aboard the Vivaldi Supersport machine: “I’m mega happy to be moving into British Superbikes and it is my hope to make a good impression from the start. I’m under no illusions as to the task in hand and having Ollie in the team will be a bonus as I can measure my performance against his. I’m not setting unrealistic goals, I just want to do my best and I’m sure the results will come.” At present, Team NB are planning their test schedule prior to the first round at Brands Hatch on Easter weekend (9th April). For further information, please contact Team Manager Norris Farrow on 01205 821033
SBK CORONA EXTRA SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP® PIRELLI TEST PHILLIP ISLAND 13-14-15 JANUARY PREVIEW Rome, Wednesday 10th January 2007 NEW SEASON BUILD UP INTENSIFIES With the 20th season of the World Superbike Championship about to commence at Doha, Qatar, on 24 February, the final Pirelli development test of the off-season (Phillip Island between 13 and 15 January) takes on a particular significance for all of the Development Teams. One designated development team represents each competing manufacturer, to ensure that the latest generations of Pirelli tyres are thoroughly tested before they are put into volume production. At this stage of the pre-season build up, the test is also a valuable opportunity for all the riders and teams to make firm decisions on the path of machine development and set-up for the new season, especially for those who have all-new machinery to test. BAYLISS AND CORSER ON HOME TARMAC With most Australian riders having to take a permanent base in Europe during their race careers any visit to Phillip Island is always an opportunity for them to visit family and friends – with the added benefit of knowing that their home circuit is one of the best motorcycle racing venues in the world. The leading two Aussie competitors Troy Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) and Troy Corser (Yamaha Motor Italia) are both double SBK world champions, with Corser champion in 1996 and 2005, and Bayliss the victor in 2001 and 2006. Bayliss was fastest man in the most recent Pirelli Development Team test at Doha, but Corser is adapting well to the new challenge in his first year as a Yamaha Superbike rider, on the all-new YZF-R1. Bayliss will be joined at this test by Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) with Corser teamed-up in 2007 with the perennial SBK force, Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia). TOSELAND AND BIAGGI OUT TO SPIKE THE AUSSIE GUNS For 2004 World Champion James Toseland (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) and new SBK inductee Max Biaggi (Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) the Aussie duo of Bayliss and Corser will be good benchmarks to measure their overall performance by, and in testing each rider has already shown a great desire to make 2007 their year. Toseland, on a modified version of his 2006 machine, is now something of an SBK veteran, even if he is still only 26, but vastly experienced MotoGP rider Biaggi is a rookie to the SBK class in 2007. TO complicate things further, Biaggi has a new GSX-R1000 to help develop, alongside his team-mate, proven SBK race winner, Yukio Kagayama (Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra). Toseland is joined in 2007 by the formidable talents of Italian rider, Roby Rolfo (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda). KAWASAKI DUO AIMING FOR INCREASED DYNAMISM Now a two-man team for the 2007 season, the PSG-1 Kawasaki Corse duo of Spaniard Fonsi Nieto and Frenchman Regis Laconi have already impressed on the year-old ZX-10 Kawasaki, and are looking to Phillip Island as another opportunity to turn speed into consistent speed over race distance, in readiness for round two the championship at the Aussie venue in March 2007. SUPERSPORT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP With an all new Honda CBR600RR and the lions’ share of the 2006 race wins to their credit, few expect the 2005 and 2006 World Supersport champion Sebastien Charpentier (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) and multiple 2006 race winner Kenan Sofuoglu (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) to be on anything except the leading pace at PI, in what will be the new machine’s first real outing against its impressive peer group. The PI challenge will most likely come from two European-based Aussie riders, Kevin Curtain and Broc Parkes, from the official Yamaha team, but you can never count out the Ducati Supersport phenomenon that is Gianluca Nannelli. The special relationship between Nannelli, his Ducati 749R and his SC Caracchi team is now legendary in World Supersport, keeping the ageing twin-cylinder 750ccc machine competitive in a way few other riders can manage. A welcome return of a full factory Kawasaki effort sees the GIL Motorsports Kawasaki squad firmly in place at Phillip Island, with their riders 2002 champion Fabien Foret and always-impressive Pere Riba on the latest spec of 600cc Kawasaki.
Now when you purchase a 2007 American Roadracer MotoGP and AMA Superbike calendar, you can decide if 20% of your purchase price goes to the Roadracing World Action Fund or to the Red Flag Fund. The Roadracing World Action Fund advocates and promotes the use of soft barriers to prevent racetrack injuries and the Red Flag Fund helps injured racers with medical bills. All you have to do is go to www.AmericanRoadracer.com and purchase a calendar. When checking out use– “¢Coupon Code: RWAF to donate 20% to theAirfence Action Fund -or- “¢Coupon Code: RFF to donate 20% for the Red Flag Fund. The 2007 American Roadracer calendar is a high-quality, large-format wall calendar featuring over 60 amazing action photos of the best American road racers in MotoGP and AMA Superbike. The calendar is published by racers who care about the sport and the people in it.
