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Two Former Champions Partner On Yoshimura Suzuki Team For 2007 Australian Superbike Season

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Former Australian Superbike Champion Craig Coxhell will partner triple Champion Shawn Giles in the Australian Yoshimura Suzuki squad next year on GSX-R1000s. And in a bid to once again “Own the Racetrack,” the team has also signed leading up-and-coming rider Josh Waters to pilot the team’s GSX-R600 Supersport entry. With a combined total of four Australian Superbike titles between them, the Giles-Coxhell partnership is the most-successful team line-up in the history of Australian Superbike racing and offers Suzuki a depth of experience that their rivals cannot match. Following a successful stint racing overseas in the British Superbike and European Superstock classes, Coxhell is returning home to re-join the team that delivered him huge local success and launched his international career. Said Coxhell: “Team Yoshimura Suzuki is an incredibly professional team and I’m really looking forward to coming back to race for them again. “After being away for the last three years it’s hard to know what to expect from the competition, but I’m hoping I can be on the pace right from the start of the season. “Team Manager Phil Tainton is the best there is; I love working with him and the whole team and I know I’ll have a great race bike under me again next year. I’m really looking forward to having Shawn as a team mate again. We work really well together off the track and push each other hard on the track.” A veteran of the sport whose feats are unrivalled in Australian Road Racing, Giles has three Australian Superbike titles and an Australian Supersport Championship to his credit and shows no signs of slowing down for 2007. “2007 is going to be a big year for Suzuki with a really strong rider line-up for Superbikes and Supersport, plus our new GSX-R1000’s will come on board too,” said Giles. “Craig and I had a lot of fun racing together in 2003 and we’ve stayed in contact over the last few years. He’s had some top-level racing experience and it’ll be fantastic to have him back in the team. “With my season ruined by injuries this year, I’ll definitely be on a mission to get back into championship contention for 2007 and I’ll be trying particularly hard to stay ahead of Craig on the track and in the Championship.” Rounding out Team Yoshimura Suzuki’s line-up, 19-year-old Waters is excited to join the premier road racing outfit following his impressive performances in the Supersport class and several guest rides in the 2006 Superbike category. He boasts several National Dirt Track Championships across a range of classes and the 2003 Australian 125 GP Championship among his many achievements. “I’m stoked! Joining Team Yoshimura Suzuki and working with Phil, Shawn and Craig is an excellent opportunity for me; it’s a chance to learn from the best guys in the Australian scene and I’m going to make the most of this whole experience,” said Waters. “I’m really excited about getting to ride the GSX-R600: I know by the time Phil is done developing it, it’ll be one of the best 600’s in the paddock and hopefully we can take the Supersport title.” Team Yoshimura Suzuki Team Manager Tainton is delighted by Coxhell’s return to form Suzuki’s Giles-Coxhell Superbike dream team, as well as getting hold of the highly-credentialed Waters for the Supersport campaign. “It’s a fantastic coup for Team Yoshimura Suzuki to have lured Craig back for 2007,” he said. “Craig may be surprised by the amount the Australian Superbike Championship has stepped up since he left, but he’ll bring back valuable skills and experience that he’s developed racing internationally. “Shawn is still phenomenally quick; he has lots of experience and knowledge to share with the young guys and with Craig back on board he’ll be pushing harder than ever. “We expect both Shawn and Craig to be championship contenders right from the outset of 2007 and hopefully they’ll push each other like they did in 2003 when Suzuki finished 1-2 for the season. “Josh is a very talented young rider with a lot of potential and we are particularly pleased to have signed him for our GSX-R600 Supersport entry. “Our Supersport program has come along in leaps and bounds since we started mid-year and I’m confident Josh will do a great job and challenge for the championship. “For us, putting Josh on for this Supersport ride is the first step in a long-term relationship where he can learn, develop his skills and progress to the Superbike class and eventually win titles for Suzuki.”

Gibernau Announces Retirement

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After an 11-year MotoGP career, 33-year-old Sete Gibernau called a press conference to announce his retirement. The 2006 season was specifically difficult for Gibernau, after injuries sidelined him from multiple GP races. And although Casey Stoner was signed by Ducati Marlboro to replace Gibernau for the 2007 season, he did receive offers. But Gibernau had already made his decision. “I am going out at the top, accomplishing a small dream of mine; to be happy,” he said.

Miller Motorsports Park Named “Motorsport Facility Of The Year”

TOOELE VALLEY, UTAH “” Miller Motorsports Park was named “Motorsports Facility of the Year” today by the Professional Motorsport World Expo at a gala event held in Cologne, Germany. Alan Wilson, CEO/General Manager and track designer, accepted the award at the gathering of racing professionals from all over the world. Miller Motorsports Park was on a short list for the prestigious award that included Las Vegas Motor Speedway (USA), Cranfield University (UK) and Paul Ricard HTTT (France). “This award is a great honor for Miller Motorsports Park, especially so since it has come to us in our inaugural year,” Wilson said. “It takes a whole team of people to make this happen, and I want to thank everyone involved – staff, volunteers, race fans, the Tooele community, the corner workers, and so many more. We couldn’t have done it without such total support. Larry Miller (owner) has brought something extremely special to Utah.” The competition was judged by well-known racing professionals such as Michael Andretti of Andretti Green Racing, Trevor Carlin of Carlin Motorsport, and motor racing writer David Tremayne. Approximately 1,500 people attended the event. Miller Motorsports Park opened in April 2006 and hosted a full slate of America’s best road racing during its inaugural season; including the AMA Superbike and Supermoto series, the American LeMans Series, Grand American Road Racing, Historic Sportscar Racing, and AHRMA vintage motorcycle racing. The 2007 season schedule will include all the major events of 2006, plus more. The full schedule will be released soon.

Frame Named 2006 WMRRA Rookie Of The Year

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At the 2006 WMRRA season end awards banquet, XLSR Racing’s rookie Jake Frame was named the 2006 WMRRA Rookie of the Year. Frame is following in the footsteps of his XLSR teammate, mentor, and good friend Joshua Ellingson who was named the 2005 WMRRA Rookie of the Year. “I feel very privileged to have been awarded this honor” said Frame of the award that is decided upon by the staff and board members of the Washington Motorcycle Road Racing Association. “My number one goal for this season was to win this award. I am very happy to be keeping it in the XLSR family.” Frame continues to say; “I really owe this award to Joshua who listened to my goals at the beginning of the season and recognized what I needed to do in order to achieve them and then put me on his coat tails and showed me the ropes.” Frame took the mentorship of the 2005 Rookie of the Year and put together an impressive second half of the season. On top of his new Rookie of the Year honors he ended up with a total of 12 podium appearances where 7 of them were victories; 2 championship podium appearances, and 1 class championship in Portland. When asked about next season Frame tells us that he will be continuing his relationship with XLSR Racing and will surely be out on his Suzuki SV650 Superbike. “I know what I want to do next season but need to see how the money works out. I’ll be racing the SV for sure but would like to add an inline 4 or a triple to the line up. I need to find some bigger grids, bigger sponsors so I can earn points towards my AMA license and keep the dream alive.”

Harley-Davidson Foundation Donates $1 Million To Support Disabled American Veterans

Program provides benefits counseling to veterans and their families in communities across the country CINCINNATTI, OH “”The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is pleased to announce that a $1 million grant from the Harley-Davidson Foundation will be used to provide free services to thousands of veterans in communities across the country. The DAV Mobile Service Office program provides in-community benefits counseling and education to veterans and their families on benefits available from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a result of their service to our country. The mission of the DAV Mobile Service Office program is to provide convenient access to benefits counseling for veterans and their families. For some veterans traveling to a VA benefits office could mean hours of driving, so the DAV comes to them. “Last year the DAV’s fleet of Mobile Service Offices traveled to more than 600 communities and provided services to thousands of veterans and their families,” said Arthur H. Wilson, National Adjutant and Chief Executive Officer. “As a result the Harley-Davidson Foundation’s generosity, the DAV MSO program can continue to travel the country and provide assistance to veterans and their families where they live.” These “offices on wheels” are staffed by highly trained professional counselors who are skilled experts in developing and prosecuting veterans’ claims. These DAV National Service Offices (NSO’s) talk with veterans about their government benefits, including compensation for disabilities related to their military service they may be eligible for, even years after their active duty ended. They help veterans determine if they have a claim, and then assist in the thorough preparation of claims and written briefs, which includes helping to assemble evidence in support of those claims. “Veterans are important members of the Harley-Davidson family and the DAV Mobile Service Office program will provide even more access to the benefits they are entitled to receive,” said Gail Lione, President of the Harley-Davidson Foundation. “We are honored to show support and appreciation to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom.” To learn more about the DAV Mobile Service Office or to show your support of this program please go to www.dav.org. For information on Harley-Davidson’s support of Veterans please contact Tony Shields, Manager, Community Relations at [email protected]. About Disabled American Veterans The 1.3 million-member Disabled American Veterans, a non-profit organization founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932, represents this nation’s disabled veterans. It is dedicated to a single purpose: building better lives for our nation’s disabled veterans and their families. For more information, visit the organization’s Web site www.dav.org. About the Harley-Davidson Foundation The Harley-Davidson Foundation, Inc. was established in 1993. Harley-Davidson, Inc. utilizes this non-profit organization to support the communities in which the Company has facilities. The majority of the Foundation’s investments are in the areas of education and community revitalization with funds also supporting programs in arts and culture, health, the environment, and national veteran’s initiatives. For more information, visit www.harley-davidson.com.

Real Life For WERA Racer Luke Wikle, Away From The Racetrack…

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WERA racer and U.S. Marine Luke Wikle is seen here being assisted after he was hit by shrapnel from an IED in Iraq.

British Press Leak Foils Ducati Plans For Worldwide Release Of 1098

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England’s Motorcycle News, owned by EMAP, has blown wide open a worldwide embargo and coordinated release of Ducati’s new 1098 model. Ducati had coordinated with news outlets around the globe to introduce the new bike on November 14th, but stolen studio photos surfaced on the Internet and led EMAP to publish photos and information on the bike. That led to Ducati moving up the press intro a week and to the early launching of the bike on the official Ducati website. A worldwide press intro scheduled for the end of this month in South Africa was meant to follow release of photos and specs on the 14th. The new bike comes in three specification levels, including the standard for $14,995, the 1098S for $19,995 and the 1098S Tri Color for $24,995. All three models make 160 horsepower; the standard and 1098S weigh 381 pounds and the Tri Color weighs 377 pounds. Ohlins suspension and lighter wheels and other parts set apart the Tri Color model. All three should be available in the U.S. this coming February. The first U.S. public appearance of the bikes will be at the IMS motorcycle show scheduled for December 1-3 in Seattle, Washington. More from a press release issued by Ducati North America: DUCATI ANNOUNCES NEW 2007 DUCATI 1098 SUPERBIKE FAMILY Cupertino, CA – Ducati North America announces the international launch and North American pricing for the new 1098 Superbike. This incredible new machine produces 160hp and 90.4lbs/ft of torque, which results in making the 1098 the most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle in the world, with the highest torque-to-weight ratio of any sport bike. In addition, the 1098 is also the lightest open class Superbike available, weighing 381 pounds. The priority in every step of the 1098 development has been performance first. Every system, every detail and every component has been studied and pared down to its essence in order to increase performance to the maximum. If it didn’t make the 1098 lighter, faster or deliver quicker lap times, it wasn’t considered. The 1098 will be available in three versions starting in February. The 1098 Biposto will carry a manufacturers suggested retail price of $14,995. The 1098 S will be priced at $19,995, while the limited edition 1098 S Tri-Colore will be $24,995. The 1098 S Tri-Colore will feature a evocative red, white and green racing livery and a Termignoni performance exhaust system, among other performance enhancements. Prices in Canada will be $19,995 for standard version, while the 1098 S will be $24,995 and the Tri-Colore will be $29,995. “We are very pleased to announce not only a radical new Superbike family, but also a brand new competitive pricing structure. We have worked very long and hard to make this happen, and we are excited to introduce this motorcycle to the American public at the Seattle round of the International Motorcycle Shows, which happens December 1-3,” said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. For further detailed technical information and images, please visit www.ducatiusa.com.

Erik Buell To Attend International Motorcycle Exhibition in Italy

Buell Radical Contest Party Set for Wednesday, November 15, at Milan Fashion Café East Troy, Wis. Buell Motorcycle Co. founder and Chief Technical Officer Erik Buell is excited to travel to Milan, Italy, for the EICMA 64th Annual International Motorcycle Exhibition. The public days of the show are November 16-19, but Buell will attend the two press-only days, November 14-15. Since he will not be available during the public days, Buell Motorcycle Company is hosting the Buell Radical Contest Party on November 15 at Just Cavalli Café, Viale Camoens, in Milan. Erik Buell will be on hand, as well as Buell stunt rider Craig Jones, who will be performing at the Milan show. The party will be open to journalists and Buell dealers from 8-10 p.m., then open to Buell owners, sportbike enthusiasts of all brands and the public after 10 p.m. Harley-Davidson Italia, the Italian subsidiary for Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles, sponsored a contest earlier this year asking dealers to customize a Buell motorcycle. The top nine entries will be on display at the party. Erik Buell will judge and announce the winner, who will receive a special award and will have their motorcycle on display at the Buell stand during the public days of the show. It has been three years since Erik Buell, the creative genius behind the innovative Buell motorcycles, has been to the Milan show. He is excited about the growth of Buell sportbikes in Italy, and in Europe overall. “We’ve been selling Buell motorcycles in Europe since 1996 and Italy is a key market for us,” said Buell. “We look forward to continued growth and expansion of the brand throughout Europe, where the twisty roads are perfect for the responsive handling and low-end torque of Buell motorcycles.” The Buell Trilogy of Technology design principles of frame rigidity, mass centralization and low unsprung weight were developed by Erik Buell more than 20 years ago. They provide superior handling, powerfully smooth acceleration and legendary Buell torque, and have changed the industry’s view on motorcycle design. A lightweight aluminum frame contains the fuel while the swing arm holds oil. The muffler is located below the engine and the Immediate Throttle Response System has a light Goodyear Hibrex final belt drive with Flexten Plus technology to provide what feels like a direct connection between the throttle and the rear wheel for an exhilarating ride in all conditions. The patented ZTL (Zero Torsional Load) front braking system, mounted on the wheel perimeter 375mm rotor, is gripped by six-piston caliper allowing for light, six-spoke wheels. Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., 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. Pull into www.buell.com for the Buell dealer nearest you.

Cornerworker Injured At AMA Supermoto Finale Released From Hospital

PICKERINGTON, Ohio Dan Willenborg, the cornerworker who was injured Sunday afternoon at the AMA Supermoto Championship finale, was released from the hospital Tuesday morning. A first-turn crash involving competitors Troy Herfoss and Alex Thiebault in the AMA Supermoto Unlimited race at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, Calif., caused Herfoss’ bike to collide with Willenborg who was working as a flagger. AMA Pro Racing Supermoto Director Joel Grover was positioned near the incident and said it was a bizarre crash that was impossible to predict. “Troy (Herfoss) and Alex (Thiebault) came together as they entered the first turn and the contact caused Troy’s bike to suddenly veer left to the inside of the corner,” said Grover. “Troy had no time to react and unfortunately his bike impacted Dan.” The race was immediately stopped and medical officials attended to Willenborg and Herfoss. Both were transported to the local hospital. Grover and Troy Lee Design’s Troy Lee met with Willenborg Monday morning. Lee, whose company promoted the event dubbed the ‘Duel at the Docks’ was relieved to learn that Willenborg’s injuries weren’t more severe. “When we met with Dan in the hospital he was in good spirits and ready to go home. We’re glad his hospital stay was brief.” Grover noted that Herfoss was evaluated at the hospital Sunday evening and released. Herfoss returned to the Queen Mary for a post-event party. “Troy was fine and more concerned about the condition of Dan than anything,” said Grover. Thiebault was uninjured in the incident. Several local news organizations reported on the incident in their Sunday evening and Monday morning coverage. Reports of injured spectators proved to be inaccurate.

Benefit Track Day Generates $95,000 For Injured AMA Racer Haskovec

SONOMA, Calif. “” The motorcycle community came together on Tuesday at Infineon Raceway for injured AMA rider Vincent Haskovec, and the results were staggering. The event, which was highlighted by a motorcycle track day and dinner at the raceway, generated $95,000, with all proceeds benefiting Haskovec, who was injured at the raceway during an AMA event in 2005 and is currently rehabilitating in Arizona. The day was hosted by Infineon Raceway and 3J’s Motorcycle Track Days. The day featured a bit of everything, from a motorcycle track day that boasted six-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin to an old-fashioned Italian Spaghetti Feed and Auction. Mladin (Yoshimura Suzuki) even donated a brand-new Suzuki GSX-R750, which fetched $24,000 in a raffle “” the bike was won by Harry Wood. In all, more than 400 people participated in the track day, attended the dinner or stopped by just to give Haskovec their best wishes. “For a Tuesday, this was pretty amazing to see this many people out here to help Vincent,” Mladin said. “It’s been a real good time and I’m glad I’m here to be part of it. I’ve gotten to know Vincent and I like him a lot. He’s a real good fellow and I’m glad to help.” Haskovec, who pulled the winning raffle ticket for the GSX-R750, addressed the crowd before dinner and was extremely grateful at the outpouring of support. “I’m really speechless and touched at the amount of people that showed up for this day. It’s simply incredible and I can’t thank you enough,” he said. Rider Richard Cormier came all the way from Eureka for the day and piloted his Honda around the twisting road course. “I was here when Vincent had his accident, so I thought this would be a good way to help out,” Cormier said. “I met Vincent a few years ago and he was the nicest guy. I’m just glad I could do my bit to help him.” Following dinner, there was a silent auction and live auction of more than 35 items, with a prize package to the 2007 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix MotoGP event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca netting the highest amount at $1,050. “This event really exceeded all of our expectations,” said Jere Starks, vice president of facilities at Infineon Raceway, who created 3J’s Motorcycle Track Days in 2003 with friends Jim Randolph and Jay Brosius. “We had hoped to raise $60,000 so this was an incredible day.” Starks, Randolph and Brosius, who are all avid motorcycle riders, have hosted nine 3J’s Motorcycle Days at Infineon Raceway, raising more than $100,000 for qualified youth groups in Sonoma County through Speedway Children’s Charities, the charitable arm of Infineon Raceway. This marks the second fund-raiser for Haskovec “” the first generated $40,000 last year. If you could not attend the fund-raiser but would like to contribute to Haskovec, make your check payable to the NEXT STEP FOUNDATION and mail c/o Jere Starks at Infineon Raceway (Highways 37 and 121, Sonoma, CA. 95476).

Two Former Champions Partner On Yoshimura Suzuki Team For 2007 Australian Superbike Season

Former Australian Superbike Champion Craig Coxhell will partner triple Champion Shawn Giles in the Australian Yoshimura Suzuki squad next year on GSX-R1000s. And in a bid to once again “Own the Racetrack,” the team has also signed leading up-and-coming rider Josh Waters to pilot the team’s GSX-R600 Supersport entry. With a combined total of four Australian Superbike titles between them, the Giles-Coxhell partnership is the most-successful team line-up in the history of Australian Superbike racing and offers Suzuki a depth of experience that their rivals cannot match. Following a successful stint racing overseas in the British Superbike and European Superstock classes, Coxhell is returning home to re-join the team that delivered him huge local success and launched his international career. Said Coxhell: “Team Yoshimura Suzuki is an incredibly professional team and I’m really looking forward to coming back to race for them again. “After being away for the last three years it’s hard to know what to expect from the competition, but I’m hoping I can be on the pace right from the start of the season. “Team Manager Phil Tainton is the best there is; I love working with him and the whole team and I know I’ll have a great race bike under me again next year. I’m really looking forward to having Shawn as a team mate again. We work really well together off the track and push each other hard on the track.” A veteran of the sport whose feats are unrivalled in Australian Road Racing, Giles has three Australian Superbike titles and an Australian Supersport Championship to his credit and shows no signs of slowing down for 2007. “2007 is going to be a big year for Suzuki with a really strong rider line-up for Superbikes and Supersport, plus our new GSX-R1000’s will come on board too,” said Giles. “Craig and I had a lot of fun racing together in 2003 and we’ve stayed in contact over the last few years. He’s had some top-level racing experience and it’ll be fantastic to have him back in the team. “With my season ruined by injuries this year, I’ll definitely be on a mission to get back into championship contention for 2007 and I’ll be trying particularly hard to stay ahead of Craig on the track and in the Championship.” Rounding out Team Yoshimura Suzuki’s line-up, 19-year-old Waters is excited to join the premier road racing outfit following his impressive performances in the Supersport class and several guest rides in the 2006 Superbike category. He boasts several National Dirt Track Championships across a range of classes and the 2003 Australian 125 GP Championship among his many achievements. “I’m stoked! Joining Team Yoshimura Suzuki and working with Phil, Shawn and Craig is an excellent opportunity for me; it’s a chance to learn from the best guys in the Australian scene and I’m going to make the most of this whole experience,” said Waters. “I’m really excited about getting to ride the GSX-R600: I know by the time Phil is done developing it, it’ll be one of the best 600’s in the paddock and hopefully we can take the Supersport title.” Team Yoshimura Suzuki Team Manager Tainton is delighted by Coxhell’s return to form Suzuki’s Giles-Coxhell Superbike dream team, as well as getting hold of the highly-credentialed Waters for the Supersport campaign. “It’s a fantastic coup for Team Yoshimura Suzuki to have lured Craig back for 2007,” he said. “Craig may be surprised by the amount the Australian Superbike Championship has stepped up since he left, but he’ll bring back valuable skills and experience that he’s developed racing internationally. “Shawn is still phenomenally quick; he has lots of experience and knowledge to share with the young guys and with Craig back on board he’ll be pushing harder than ever. “We expect both Shawn and Craig to be championship contenders right from the outset of 2007 and hopefully they’ll push each other like they did in 2003 when Suzuki finished 1-2 for the season. “Josh is a very talented young rider with a lot of potential and we are particularly pleased to have signed him for our GSX-R600 Supersport entry. “Our Supersport program has come along in leaps and bounds since we started mid-year and I’m confident Josh will do a great job and challenge for the championship. “For us, putting Josh on for this Supersport ride is the first step in a long-term relationship where he can learn, develop his skills and progress to the Superbike class and eventually win titles for Suzuki.”

Gibernau Announces Retirement

After an 11-year MotoGP career, 33-year-old Sete Gibernau called a press conference to announce his retirement. The 2006 season was specifically difficult for Gibernau, after injuries sidelined him from multiple GP races. And although Casey Stoner was signed by Ducati Marlboro to replace Gibernau for the 2007 season, he did receive offers. But Gibernau had already made his decision. “I am going out at the top, accomplishing a small dream of mine; to be happy,” he said.

Miller Motorsports Park Named “Motorsport Facility Of The Year”

TOOELE VALLEY, UTAH “” Miller Motorsports Park was named “Motorsports Facility of the Year” today by the Professional Motorsport World Expo at a gala event held in Cologne, Germany. Alan Wilson, CEO/General Manager and track designer, accepted the award at the gathering of racing professionals from all over the world. Miller Motorsports Park was on a short list for the prestigious award that included Las Vegas Motor Speedway (USA), Cranfield University (UK) and Paul Ricard HTTT (France). “This award is a great honor for Miller Motorsports Park, especially so since it has come to us in our inaugural year,” Wilson said. “It takes a whole team of people to make this happen, and I want to thank everyone involved – staff, volunteers, race fans, the Tooele community, the corner workers, and so many more. We couldn’t have done it without such total support. Larry Miller (owner) has brought something extremely special to Utah.” The competition was judged by well-known racing professionals such as Michael Andretti of Andretti Green Racing, Trevor Carlin of Carlin Motorsport, and motor racing writer David Tremayne. Approximately 1,500 people attended the event. Miller Motorsports Park opened in April 2006 and hosted a full slate of America’s best road racing during its inaugural season; including the AMA Superbike and Supermoto series, the American LeMans Series, Grand American Road Racing, Historic Sportscar Racing, and AHRMA vintage motorcycle racing. The 2007 season schedule will include all the major events of 2006, plus more. The full schedule will be released soon.

Frame Named 2006 WMRRA Rookie Of The Year

At the 2006 WMRRA season end awards banquet, XLSR Racing’s rookie Jake Frame was named the 2006 WMRRA Rookie of the Year. Frame is following in the footsteps of his XLSR teammate, mentor, and good friend Joshua Ellingson who was named the 2005 WMRRA Rookie of the Year. “I feel very privileged to have been awarded this honor” said Frame of the award that is decided upon by the staff and board members of the Washington Motorcycle Road Racing Association. “My number one goal for this season was to win this award. I am very happy to be keeping it in the XLSR family.” Frame continues to say; “I really owe this award to Joshua who listened to my goals at the beginning of the season and recognized what I needed to do in order to achieve them and then put me on his coat tails and showed me the ropes.” Frame took the mentorship of the 2005 Rookie of the Year and put together an impressive second half of the season. On top of his new Rookie of the Year honors he ended up with a total of 12 podium appearances where 7 of them were victories; 2 championship podium appearances, and 1 class championship in Portland. When asked about next season Frame tells us that he will be continuing his relationship with XLSR Racing and will surely be out on his Suzuki SV650 Superbike. “I know what I want to do next season but need to see how the money works out. I’ll be racing the SV for sure but would like to add an inline 4 or a triple to the line up. I need to find some bigger grids, bigger sponsors so I can earn points towards my AMA license and keep the dream alive.”

Harley-Davidson Foundation Donates $1 Million To Support Disabled American Veterans

Program provides benefits counseling to veterans and their families in communities across the country CINCINNATTI, OH “”The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is pleased to announce that a $1 million grant from the Harley-Davidson Foundation will be used to provide free services to thousands of veterans in communities across the country. The DAV Mobile Service Office program provides in-community benefits counseling and education to veterans and their families on benefits available from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a result of their service to our country. The mission of the DAV Mobile Service Office program is to provide convenient access to benefits counseling for veterans and their families. For some veterans traveling to a VA benefits office could mean hours of driving, so the DAV comes to them. “Last year the DAV’s fleet of Mobile Service Offices traveled to more than 600 communities and provided services to thousands of veterans and their families,” said Arthur H. Wilson, National Adjutant and Chief Executive Officer. “As a result the Harley-Davidson Foundation’s generosity, the DAV MSO program can continue to travel the country and provide assistance to veterans and their families where they live.” These “offices on wheels” are staffed by highly trained professional counselors who are skilled experts in developing and prosecuting veterans’ claims. These DAV National Service Offices (NSO’s) talk with veterans about their government benefits, including compensation for disabilities related to their military service they may be eligible for, even years after their active duty ended. They help veterans determine if they have a claim, and then assist in the thorough preparation of claims and written briefs, which includes helping to assemble evidence in support of those claims. “Veterans are important members of the Harley-Davidson family and the DAV Mobile Service Office program will provide even more access to the benefits they are entitled to receive,” said Gail Lione, President of the Harley-Davidson Foundation. “We are honored to show support and appreciation to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom.” To learn more about the DAV Mobile Service Office or to show your support of this program please go to www.dav.org. For information on Harley-Davidson’s support of Veterans please contact Tony Shields, Manager, Community Relations at [email protected]. About Disabled American Veterans The 1.3 million-member Disabled American Veterans, a non-profit organization founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932, represents this nation’s disabled veterans. It is dedicated to a single purpose: building better lives for our nation’s disabled veterans and their families. For more information, visit the organization’s Web site www.dav.org. About the Harley-Davidson Foundation The Harley-Davidson Foundation, Inc. was established in 1993. Harley-Davidson, Inc. utilizes this non-profit organization to support the communities in which the Company has facilities. The majority of the Foundation’s investments are in the areas of education and community revitalization with funds also supporting programs in arts and culture, health, the environment, and national veteran’s initiatives. For more information, visit www.harley-davidson.com.

Real Life For WERA Racer Luke Wikle, Away From The Racetrack…

WERA racer and U.S. Marine Luke Wikle is seen here being assisted after he was hit by shrapnel from an IED in Iraq.

British Press Leak Foils Ducati Plans For Worldwide Release Of 1098

England’s Motorcycle News, owned by EMAP, has blown wide open a worldwide embargo and coordinated release of Ducati’s new 1098 model. Ducati had coordinated with news outlets around the globe to introduce the new bike on November 14th, but stolen studio photos surfaced on the Internet and led EMAP to publish photos and information on the bike. That led to Ducati moving up the press intro a week and to the early launching of the bike on the official Ducati website. A worldwide press intro scheduled for the end of this month in South Africa was meant to follow release of photos and specs on the 14th. The new bike comes in three specification levels, including the standard for $14,995, the 1098S for $19,995 and the 1098S Tri Color for $24,995. All three models make 160 horsepower; the standard and 1098S weigh 381 pounds and the Tri Color weighs 377 pounds. Ohlins suspension and lighter wheels and other parts set apart the Tri Color model. All three should be available in the U.S. this coming February. The first U.S. public appearance of the bikes will be at the IMS motorcycle show scheduled for December 1-3 in Seattle, Washington. More from a press release issued by Ducati North America: DUCATI ANNOUNCES NEW 2007 DUCATI 1098 SUPERBIKE FAMILY Cupertino, CA – Ducati North America announces the international launch and North American pricing for the new 1098 Superbike. This incredible new machine produces 160hp and 90.4lbs/ft of torque, which results in making the 1098 the most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle in the world, with the highest torque-to-weight ratio of any sport bike. In addition, the 1098 is also the lightest open class Superbike available, weighing 381 pounds. The priority in every step of the 1098 development has been performance first. Every system, every detail and every component has been studied and pared down to its essence in order to increase performance to the maximum. If it didn’t make the 1098 lighter, faster or deliver quicker lap times, it wasn’t considered. The 1098 will be available in three versions starting in February. The 1098 Biposto will carry a manufacturers suggested retail price of $14,995. The 1098 S will be priced at $19,995, while the limited edition 1098 S Tri-Colore will be $24,995. The 1098 S Tri-Colore will feature a evocative red, white and green racing livery and a Termignoni performance exhaust system, among other performance enhancements. Prices in Canada will be $19,995 for standard version, while the 1098 S will be $24,995 and the Tri-Colore will be $29,995. “We are very pleased to announce not only a radical new Superbike family, but also a brand new competitive pricing structure. We have worked very long and hard to make this happen, and we are excited to introduce this motorcycle to the American public at the Seattle round of the International Motorcycle Shows, which happens December 1-3,” said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. For further detailed technical information and images, please visit www.ducatiusa.com.

Erik Buell To Attend International Motorcycle Exhibition in Italy

Buell Radical Contest Party Set for Wednesday, November 15, at Milan Fashion Café East Troy, Wis. Buell Motorcycle Co. founder and Chief Technical Officer Erik Buell is excited to travel to Milan, Italy, for the EICMA 64th Annual International Motorcycle Exhibition. The public days of the show are November 16-19, but Buell will attend the two press-only days, November 14-15. Since he will not be available during the public days, Buell Motorcycle Company is hosting the Buell Radical Contest Party on November 15 at Just Cavalli Café, Viale Camoens, in Milan. Erik Buell will be on hand, as well as Buell stunt rider Craig Jones, who will be performing at the Milan show. The party will be open to journalists and Buell dealers from 8-10 p.m., then open to Buell owners, sportbike enthusiasts of all brands and the public after 10 p.m. Harley-Davidson Italia, the Italian subsidiary for Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles, sponsored a contest earlier this year asking dealers to customize a Buell motorcycle. The top nine entries will be on display at the party. Erik Buell will judge and announce the winner, who will receive a special award and will have their motorcycle on display at the Buell stand during the public days of the show. It has been three years since Erik Buell, the creative genius behind the innovative Buell motorcycles, has been to the Milan show. He is excited about the growth of Buell sportbikes in Italy, and in Europe overall. “We’ve been selling Buell motorcycles in Europe since 1996 and Italy is a key market for us,” said Buell. “We look forward to continued growth and expansion of the brand throughout Europe, where the twisty roads are perfect for the responsive handling and low-end torque of Buell motorcycles.” The Buell Trilogy of Technology design principles of frame rigidity, mass centralization and low unsprung weight were developed by Erik Buell more than 20 years ago. They provide superior handling, powerfully smooth acceleration and legendary Buell torque, and have changed the industry’s view on motorcycle design. A lightweight aluminum frame contains the fuel while the swing arm holds oil. The muffler is located below the engine and the Immediate Throttle Response System has a light Goodyear Hibrex final belt drive with Flexten Plus technology to provide what feels like a direct connection between the throttle and the rear wheel for an exhilarating ride in all conditions. The patented ZTL (Zero Torsional Load) front braking system, mounted on the wheel perimeter 375mm rotor, is gripped by six-piston caliper allowing for light, six-spoke wheels. Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., 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. Pull into www.buell.com for the Buell dealer nearest you.

Cornerworker Injured At AMA Supermoto Finale Released From Hospital

PICKERINGTON, Ohio Dan Willenborg, the cornerworker who was injured Sunday afternoon at the AMA Supermoto Championship finale, was released from the hospital Tuesday morning. A first-turn crash involving competitors Troy Herfoss and Alex Thiebault in the AMA Supermoto Unlimited race at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, Calif., caused Herfoss’ bike to collide with Willenborg who was working as a flagger. AMA Pro Racing Supermoto Director Joel Grover was positioned near the incident and said it was a bizarre crash that was impossible to predict. “Troy (Herfoss) and Alex (Thiebault) came together as they entered the first turn and the contact caused Troy’s bike to suddenly veer left to the inside of the corner,” said Grover. “Troy had no time to react and unfortunately his bike impacted Dan.” The race was immediately stopped and medical officials attended to Willenborg and Herfoss. Both were transported to the local hospital. Grover and Troy Lee Design’s Troy Lee met with Willenborg Monday morning. Lee, whose company promoted the event dubbed the ‘Duel at the Docks’ was relieved to learn that Willenborg’s injuries weren’t more severe. “When we met with Dan in the hospital he was in good spirits and ready to go home. We’re glad his hospital stay was brief.” Grover noted that Herfoss was evaluated at the hospital Sunday evening and released. Herfoss returned to the Queen Mary for a post-event party. “Troy was fine and more concerned about the condition of Dan than anything,” said Grover. Thiebault was uninjured in the incident. Several local news organizations reported on the incident in their Sunday evening and Monday morning coverage. Reports of injured spectators proved to be inaccurate.

Benefit Track Day Generates $95,000 For Injured AMA Racer Haskovec

SONOMA, Calif. “” The motorcycle community came together on Tuesday at Infineon Raceway for injured AMA rider Vincent Haskovec, and the results were staggering. The event, which was highlighted by a motorcycle track day and dinner at the raceway, generated $95,000, with all proceeds benefiting Haskovec, who was injured at the raceway during an AMA event in 2005 and is currently rehabilitating in Arizona. The day was hosted by Infineon Raceway and 3J’s Motorcycle Track Days. The day featured a bit of everything, from a motorcycle track day that boasted six-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin to an old-fashioned Italian Spaghetti Feed and Auction. Mladin (Yoshimura Suzuki) even donated a brand-new Suzuki GSX-R750, which fetched $24,000 in a raffle “” the bike was won by Harry Wood. In all, more than 400 people participated in the track day, attended the dinner or stopped by just to give Haskovec their best wishes. “For a Tuesday, this was pretty amazing to see this many people out here to help Vincent,” Mladin said. “It’s been a real good time and I’m glad I’m here to be part of it. I’ve gotten to know Vincent and I like him a lot. He’s a real good fellow and I’m glad to help.” Haskovec, who pulled the winning raffle ticket for the GSX-R750, addressed the crowd before dinner and was extremely grateful at the outpouring of support. “I’m really speechless and touched at the amount of people that showed up for this day. It’s simply incredible and I can’t thank you enough,” he said. Rider Richard Cormier came all the way from Eureka for the day and piloted his Honda around the twisting road course. “I was here when Vincent had his accident, so I thought this would be a good way to help out,” Cormier said. “I met Vincent a few years ago and he was the nicest guy. I’m just glad I could do my bit to help him.” Following dinner, there was a silent auction and live auction of more than 35 items, with a prize package to the 2007 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix MotoGP event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca netting the highest amount at $1,050. “This event really exceeded all of our expectations,” said Jere Starks, vice president of facilities at Infineon Raceway, who created 3J’s Motorcycle Track Days in 2003 with friends Jim Randolph and Jay Brosius. “We had hoped to raise $60,000 so this was an incredible day.” Starks, Randolph and Brosius, who are all avid motorcycle riders, have hosted nine 3J’s Motorcycle Days at Infineon Raceway, raising more than $100,000 for qualified youth groups in Sonoma County through Speedway Children’s Charities, the charitable arm of Infineon Raceway. This marks the second fund-raiser for Haskovec “” the first generated $40,000 last year. If you could not attend the fund-raiser but would like to contribute to Haskovec, make your check payable to the NEXT STEP FOUNDATION and mail c/o Jere Starks at Infineon Raceway (Highways 37 and 121, Sonoma, CA. 95476).