Home Blog Page 6260

American Noyes Co-rides To Endurance Win In Spain

newspaper
-
0
American Noyes Co-rides To Endurance Win In Spain

Folch Yamaha (Noyes-Salom-Salom) Wins Six Hours of Almeria by Five Laps Folch Yamaha, Spain’s top endurance racing team for many years, opened defense of their Spanish Endurance title with a convincing victory at record pace at the Circuit of Almeria. Team leader Kenny Noyes was joined by the Salom brothers, Antonio and David, and the trio took their Michelin-shod Yamaha R1 to a five-lap victory over the Motobox Yamaha team of Pitarch-Segarra-Segarra. The Kawasaki Autoferro team of Perez-Perez-Gil was third, nine laps back of the winners. The second Folch entry of Hervas-Cabana-Lara were running second to their team mates when they were forced to retire with a blown head gasket. Team owner Josep Folch has not yet decided on his final line-up for the two machines he is entering in the World Endurance round scheduled for Albacete on April 20-21. “We found two problems with our winning R1 at Almeria, plus the gasket problem on the second bike, so we have work to do.” said Folch. “The lead bike had a problem with the quick-change rear hub that we found during qualifying and during the race we lost a couple of laps replacing a gear lever, a problem caused by a mistake I made in designing the new linkage. We’ll have both problems sorted out before the next national at Albacete on April 30 and we are gearing up to make a real run at the World Championship round at Albacete on May 20-21. So far we have been third and second in the Eight Hours of Albacete World Championship rounds that we have finished. We were second last year with Noyes, Ribalta (who has gone to Motorrad Suzuki) and Cabana. This year we are going to use only two riders in the World Championship race, the two fastest, Noyes for sure”¦he set a lap record here in 1.41.0 in practice and was the fastest rider in the race every time out, and probably Josep Monge. Monge is still recovering from a badly broken wrist and we decided to send Kenny out this time with the two Salom brothers, both young riders who performed well. When it comes to the 24 Hours of the Circuit of Catalunya, we’ll go with Noyes, Monge and Salvador Cabana. We want to win the 24 Hours again, because last year we hit un-flagged oil with two hours to go when we were leading and we were only able to finish second to Catala Suzuki.” Noyes’ next ride will be in the Valencia round of the World Supersport Championship on April 23, where he replaces David Checa on the GMT94 Yamaha R6 for Yamaha France. “This was a good tune-up for the season,” said Noyes. “But for the World Endurance round we are going to have to run road race pace for the whole eight hours. I have to forget about the R1 for a while and concentrate on the R6. The only way to keep concentration in a six hour race when you have such a big lead is to keep a steady, fast but safe pace. Even though the safety car was on the track twice this year and did not go out at all last year, we broke the record set last year.” Results Six Hours of Almeria (Round Run of Spanish Endurance) 1. Folch Yamaha YZF-R1 (Noyes-Salom-Salom) 200 laps 6:01.12.6 2. Motobox Yamaha YZF-R1 (Pitarch-Segarra-Segarra) 195 laps 3. Autoferro Kawasaki ZX-10R (Perez-Perez-Gil) 191 laps Starters 20 teams Finishers 15 teams

Harley-Davidson Announces Another Record Financial Quarter

newspaper
-
0
Harley-Davidson Announces Another Record Financial Quarter

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES FIRST QUARTER RESULTS Milwaukee, WI (April 12, 2006) – Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 26, 2006. Revenue for the quarter was $1.29 billion compared with $1.24 billion in the year-ago quarter, a 4.0 percent increase. Net income for the quarter was $234.6 million compared to $227.2 million, an increase of 3.2 percent over the first quarter of 2005. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $0.86, an 11.7 percent increase compared with last year’s $0.77. “Harley-Davidson is off to an excellent start for 2006, having achieved record revenue and earnings,” said Jim Ziemer, President and Chief Executive Officer, Harley-Davidson, Inc. “In addition, our dealers continued their retail sales growth momentum from the second half of 2005 as motorcycle sales increased by approximately 7 percent worldwide in the first quarter. With the increased seasonality in our business, we are pleased with this retail sales performance,” said Ziemer. Harley-Davidson’s second quarter shipment plan is 78,000 2006 model year motorcycles. Production in the second quarter will also include approximately 13,000 2007 models to prepare for the new model introduction in mid July; however, these 2007 motorcycles will not be shipped until the third quarter. The Company’s wholesale shipment target for the calendar year 2006 remains between 348,000 and 352,000 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. “We believe that the prospects for retail growth remain strong and support a wholesale unit growth rate in the range of 5 to 9 percent annually and an annual EPS growth rate of 11 to 17 percent,” said Ziemer. Motorcycles and Related Products Segment First Quarter Results Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $1.01 billion, an increase of $29.6 million, or 3.0 percent over the same period last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 79,506 units, an increase of 2,790 units, or 3.6 percent over last year’s first quarter. Revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $182.9 million, an increase of $6.0 million, or 3.4 percent over the year-ago quarter. Revenue from General Merchandise, which consists of MotorClothes™ apparel and collectibles, totaled $68.6 million, an increase of $9.1 million, or 15.3 percent. For the long term, the Company expects the growth rate for P&A revenue to be slightly higher than Harley-Davidson’s motorcycle shipment growth rate, and the General Merchandise growth rate is expected to be lower than the motorcycle shipment growth rate. Gross margin for the first quarter of 2006 was 38.4 percent of revenue, up from 37.6 percent for the same period in 2005. Operating margin increased from 24.2 percent in the first quarter of 2005 to 24.3 percent in the first quarter of 2006. Motorcycle Retail Sales Data Worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 6.9 percent for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. In the U.S., retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 5.8 percent for the quarter. The heavyweight motorcycle market in the U.S. increased 6.8 for the same period. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 11.6 percent in international markets during the first quarter of 2006 compared with the first quarter of 2005. First quarter retail sales were up 16.3 percent in Japan and 6.6 percent in Europe. Data is listed in the accompanying tables. Financial Services Segment Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) reported first quarter operating income of $51.6 million, a decrease of $1.9 million, or 3.6 percent, compared to the year-ago quarter. This decrease was primarily due to a lower year-over-year gain on the current securitization. The first quarter securitization of $730 million in motorcycle retail loans resulted in a gain of $8.6 million, compared to the first quarter 2005 gain of $19.2 million. The 1.2 percent gain as a percentage of loans sold is consistent with management’s prior guidance for the first quarter of 2006 of 1.0 to 1.4 percent. For the long term, the Company expects the HDFS operating income growth rate to be slightly higher than the growth rate of Harley-Davidson motorcycle shipments. Income Tax Rate The Company’s first quarter effective income tax rate was 36.0 percent compared to 35.5 percent in the same quarter last year. This increase was due to the expiration of the federal research and development tax credit as of December 31, 2005. The Company expects its annual effective tax rate in 2006 to be 35.5 percent assuming the retroactive reinstatement of this tax credit. Cash Flow Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.11 billion as of March 26, 2006, an increase of $65.7 million during the first quarter. Cash flow from operations was $365.2 million and capital expenditures were $36.0 million during the first quarter. Stock Repurchase The Company repurchased 2.1 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $107.1 million during the first quarter of 2006. These shares were repurchased under an authorization from the Company’s Board of Directors to buy back 20 million shares. A total of 17.9 million shares remain under this authorization. Company Background Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and their retail customers. Forward-Looking Statements The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” or “estimates” or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. The Company’s ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company’s ability to (i) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (ii) manage production capacity and production changes, (iii) manage supply chain issues, (iv) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (v) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (vi) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers and distributors, (vii) continue to develop the capacity of its distributor and dealer network, (viii) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (ix) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (x) adjust to worldwide economic and political conditions, including changes in fuel prices and interest rates, (xi) manage the credit quality and recovery rates of HDFS’s loan portfolio, (xii) retain and attract talented employees and (xiii) detect any defects in our motorcycles to minimize delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation. In addition, the Company could experience delays in the operation of manufacturing facilities as a result of work stoppages, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company’s ability to sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services also depends on the ability of the Company’s independent dealer network to sell them to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company’s independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.

Updated Post: Bayliss Leads All On First Day Of World Superbike Testing At Misano

newspaper
-
0
Updated Post: Bayliss Leads All On First Day Of World Superbike Testing At Misano

FPR pair on track in Italy The opening day of the second official World Superbike test at Misano, Italy, provided more encouragement for the Foggy PETRONAS Racing pair of Steve Martin and Craig Jones. Although the cool conditions did not resemble those expected for the June race, Steve was able to run two race simulations and finished the day 11th fastest of a near-complete World Superbike field. However, spots of rain towards the end of the afternoon session prevented the Australian, from using a qualifying tyre and finishing further up the standings. Team-mate Craig Jones, on his first outing at the circuit, made steady progress throughout the day and finished with a creditable time of 1:37.999, only just over half a second slower than Steve’s fastest time in the races here last year. Steve said: “We had a nice safe day and, although it is a pity we weren’t able to use a qualifier, I am more concerned about finding a setting for the race than doing fast times during these two days. I was also able to test an engine specification with a lighter crankshaft and, while there was no noticeable difference, I did go faster on that bike by around half a second.” Craig said: “I was happy to do more than 80 laps and my times came down gradually throughout the day. I hit a bit of a brick wall mid-way through the afternoon session but conditions were not too great then and times were dropping. I like the circuit as it has lots of flowing corners and the very fast corner on to the back straight and I am hoping to start tomorrow where we left off today as I think it is now just a case of getting more track experience. But I am still learning more about the bike with every session and am not too far off the point when I can start pushing for lap times.” Day one times, Superbike World Championship official test, Misano, Italy: 1 Bayliss 1:34.460; 2 Nieto 1:35.253; 3 Corser 1:35.274; 4 Lanzi 1:35.355; 5 Kagayama 1:35.641; 6 Haga 1:35.911; 7 Pitt 1:35.926; 8 Xaus 1:35.966; 9 Fabrizio 1:36.036; 10 Borciani 1:36.075; 11 Martin (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:35.608; 25 Jones (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:37.999 More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse: BAYLISS QUICKEST FOR DUCATI XEROX TEAM IN DAY 1 OF FGSPORT OFFICIAL TESTING AT MISANO ADRIATICO Misano Adriatico (Italy), Wednesday 12 April: Troy Bayliss again set the pace for the Ducati Xerox Team on the first day of a two-day FGSport official test at the Santamonica circuit in Misano Adriatico. Championship leader Bayliss, who had not raced at the Misano circuit since 2002, powered around in a time of 1m33.814s, just three-tenths of a second off his best lap of four years back and seven-tenths of a second quicker than Troy Corser (Suzuki). “On the last exit we had some spots of rain so it wasn’t worth trying to improve in the last few laps” declared Bayliss. “Overall we had a very good day, I haven’t been to Misano since 2002 so everything went OK and I felt comfortable on the bike just like I have been recently. Pretty much the first exit I got straight into good times this morning, and just continued testing a few tyres for Pirelli today and doing a little work on the bike, but honestly we haven’t changed it too much. Towards the end we did some really good laps on the race tyre just two three tenths slower than what I qualified on in 2002 so getting into the 33s on the race tyre was really good. The track is in a good condition, it’s maybe a bit bumpier since the last time here. Tomorrow I think I can go a few tenths quicker on the race tyre and maybe do a 32.9 if everything goes well.” Team-mate Lorenzo Lanzi set fourth quickest time today on the second 999F06, the 24-year-old Italian ending up just a fraction slower than Fonsi Nieto (Kawasaki) after 62 laps. Fourth quickest time is not bad and I am quite happy with the way things went” declared Lanzi. “I encountered traffic in the last few laps, the most important ones, because everyone was out on the track trying to improve, but I don’t want this to be seen as an excuse. We tried a few new things on the bikes and tomorrow we will continue with the development work. I only tested rear tyres today but we did a lot of work on the bike set-up and the tyres I’ll leave to the end in view of the race here in June. The track was good this morning but in the afternoon it got a bit worse and there were a few drops of rain towards the end”. TIMES: 1. Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) 1m33.814s; 2. Corser (Suzuki) 1m34.522s; 3. Nieto (Kawasaki) 1m34.752s; 4. Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) 1m34.819s; 5. Haga (Yamaha) 1m35.096s; 6. Fabrizio (Honda) 1m35.131s; 7. Kagayama (Suzuki) 1m35.160s; 8. Xaus (Ducati) 1m35.208s; 9. Laconi (Kawasaki) 1m35.405s; 10. Foret (Suzuki) 1m35.586s; etc. More, from a press release issued by FGSport Group: BAYLISS BESTS THE COMPETITION ONCE MORE – 2001 CHAMPION SETS EARLY PACE AT MISANO TEST Troy Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) came close to breaking his own outright SBK Misano circuit record on the first of two days of Superbike testing at the 4.060km circuit on the Adriatic coast, as he proved to be the only rider under the 1’34 barrier all day. His best first day lap of 1’33.814 beat the next fastest SBK regular by fully 0.7 of a second. That rider proved to be 1996 and 2005 World Champion Troy Corser (Alstare Corona Extra Suzuki), putting in a late fast lap as the first light spots of rain started to fall, albeit temporarily, and to no great detrimental effect. NIETO ON FORM ON DAY ONE Spanish rider Fonsi Nieto and his PSG-1 Kawasaki were more than welcome additions to the upper echelons of the first day’s rankings, in an eventual third place on the stopwatches. Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) gave the locals something to cheer about, finishing fourth fastest on his factory Duke. The top five was rounded out by Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia), trying out the latest engine-mapping developments on his YZF-R1. The CBR1000RR of SBK rookie Michel Fabrizio made it five different machines in the top six positions, at a circuit he knows well. The top Petronas FP-1 triple belonged to Steve Martin, one place outside the top ten, and a second faster on race tyres than last year’s similar performances. BIG FIELD AT MISANO TESTS Twenty-six riders tested at Misano, with the only big names missing those of Winston Ten Kate Honda’s James Toseland and Karl Muggeridge. Muggeridge will be forced to miss the Valencia SBK round on April 23, thanks to compression injuries to two of his vertebra. Experienced Italian rider, Giovanni Bussei, will replace Muggeridge for that race but the Aussie is expected to return at Monza, for round four of the 2006 series. Another Honda rider, Pierfrancesco Chili, had the extreme misfortune to suffer a highside crash in the morning Superbike session, breaking his pelvis and two ribs on the exit of the Variante Arena chicane. The 41-year-old rider is expected to take some considerable time to recover from his injuries, and is currently in Riccione Hospital. SUPERSPORT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Kevin Curtain (Yamaha Motor Germany) proved to be the quickest rider in the middleweight class on day one, with a 1’36.927 lap. His early pace proved to be less than a tenth slower than the best ever, and was almost matched by his team-mate, Broc Parkes (Yamaha Motor Germany). Riding a Ducati SC Caracchi, in Kopron Edo Racing colours, Gianluca Nannelli only needed the afternoon session to post the third fastest time, a 1’37.483, only just ahead of Gianluca Vizziello’s Team Italia Yamaha. Josh Brookes continued his learning year in the Ducati SC Caracchi squad 17th fastest, having to sit out the afternoon session due to technical issues. Current championship leader Sebastien Charpentier and his Winston Ten Kate Honda team-mate Kenan Sofuoglu did not test at Misano. More, from a press release issued by Scuderia SC Caracchi: FIRST TEST DAY AT MISANO Started today at Misano’s Santamonica circuit the last general test session for Superbike and Supersport scheduled by FG Sport. It has been a full day for SC Caracchi Team riders, in order to find a good setting looking both at next championship race at Valencia next April 23 and San Marino round to be held on this track next June. Unforeseeable weather in this first day, with some very light shower not even to water the track, and more bad for the psychological point of view as for the track grip. In Superbike Roberto Rolfo, away from Misano since 1997, focused his job in the basic set up, postponing to tomorrow all fast lap attempt. Rolfo completed during the two sessions of today a total of 74 laps, recording a fastest lap time in 1’36″369 during the afternoon session. “Also if today we focused our job for the set up I can’t say to be satisfied for the recorded lap time.” declared Roberto Rolfo at the end of the day “However I believe we found a good set up, so I’m quite satisfied and for tomorrow we could look for a faster lap time. I’m away from Misano for about 8 years, so I’ve been forced also put in the memory the track that I like anyway. With the set up defined in the last session the bike has a good handling and the engine is powerful, here too we recorded the third top speed in the speed trap, very close to the leader.” The greatest new in Supersport has been the return of Gianluca Nannelli in the team. The Floentine rider closed his partnership with the team which started the season and contested the first two rounds and now, together with Stefano Caracchi, is studying the possibility to finish the season on the SC Caracchi 748R. Slacked by an electric trouble during the morning, Nannelli practiced only in the afternoon recording a very good 1’37″483, third fastest of the day, just half a second behind the leader. Nannelli rode a total of 28 laps and was quite satisfied at the end. “The package of the 748R is very improved as to last year bike.” said Gianluca “The handling is better and better, the engine is easier to manage and is very fast, we recorded the maximum top speed of the day. In the morning we had an electrical defect, but then the guys made a fantastic job and the bike was perfect. At the moment I can’t say if I’ll be able to ride at Valencia on the 749R; I would like to have the possibility to end the season without troubles, seriously and not to act as a stop gap as has been in all the proposal I’ve had in the last days. I hope to stay in this team, where I know everyone and I know as they operate. If I’ve been so fast here in Misano, that’s not my preferred circuit…” Josh Brookes has not been able to get a good result, with a fastest lap time of 1’40″337 after 39 laps, and at the end of the day he was looking very disappointed. Quite close to the Australian rider score is Luka Nedog, who recorded 1’40″490 and is quite satisfied. “Today we made a great work.” said the young Slovenian “This track is new for me, so at the beginning I focused to learn it. That’s a circuit where to be fast looks easy, but where is very difficult to be actually very fast. Today I cover a total of 53 laps. During afternoon session I improved my lap time, running very close, just 15 hundred of second from my teammate score. Tomorrow we’ll define the final set up and we’ll se to get a good result.”

Bussei To Replace Injured Muggeridge On Winston Ten Kate Honda Superbike At Valencia

newspaper
-
0
Bussei To Replace Injured Muggeridge On Winston Ten Kate Honda Superbike At Valencia

GIOVANNI BUSSEI WITH THE WINSTON TEN KATE HONDA TEAM TO REPLACE KARL MUGGERIDGE WHO IS STILL RECOVERING FROM INJURY Karl Muggeridge, rider of the Winston Ten Kate Honda Team, really wanted to participate to the 3rd Superbike World Championship round of the 2006 season, but doctors have been really prudent from the first exams. The Mobile Clinic’s doctors declared from the beginning, and after further medical controls in Switzerland and Australia the result was the same. Karl will not be able to compete on the Ricardo Tormo circuit in the next weekend of race in Valencia. A pity for the Aussie rider who was looking for revenge after not such a lucky start of the season. The Winston Ten Kate Honda Team decided that his position on the second Honda CBR1000 will be taken by experienced Italian rider Giovanni Bussei. Ronald Ten Kate Winston Ten Kate Honda Team Manager “I am really sorry Karl will not be able to ride with us in Valencia. He seemed to get better and better day by day, but at the end I think he took, together with the doctors the right decision. It’s not worth it to ruin a season and put in danger his future for a single race. I am confident he will be back in Monza. Giovanni Bussei will be riding with us in Valencia next weekend. Giovanni demonstrated to be a good rider in the past with previous experience with Pirelli Tyres which is a key point. He really deserves a chance with our Team also for what he has done in Imola in 2004. In that race, during the warm up lap, he transformed into a “taxi rider” and brought our rider Chris Vermeulen back to the box after a fall, allowing him to participate in a crucial race in which Chris was fighting for the Title. This showed the sportsmanship Giovanni has. We could consider it a payback from our side. It wasn’t easy to find a rider in this moment of the season, but we are very pleased to work with Giovanni.” Giovanni Bussei Winston Ten Kate Honda rider “I couldn’t believe it when I received the phone call yesterday afternoon. I was really happy. The chance to ride the Honda CBR 1000, which finished second in last year championship, is a fantastic opportunity for me. After my injury at Mangy Cours last year, I wasn’t planning to find any teams for the 2006 season, I had some offers but I preferred to recover and be back at the best physical conditions. Nothing is for sure yet, but I may possibly participate to Supermotard World Championship to keep in shape. But what is happening now is just incredible. The last rumours were saying that Karl was going to recover, and then my phone rang. It was Ronald Ten Kate. Now I really hope to payback the trust they gave me by bringing as many points as possible to the Winston Ten Kate Honda Team. Of course I am sorry for Karl, I know how he is feeling at the moment. I honestly hope he will get well soon.” Karl Muggeridge Winston Ten Kate Honda rider “The doctors convinced me: it’s not worth it to risk a season, and not only, for a race. The injury is in a delicate position, and even if I don’t feel any pain, a hard fall could make it much worse. From a couple of weeks I am not taking anymore painkillers, therefore I was really positive about being able to compete in Valencia, but this morning exams weren’t as good as I thought. I will have to put through treatments and exercising to race in Monza in the first weekend of May. This is why I don’t think I’ll be able to follow the race from the track, but I will probably remain in Zurich with my family. I wish all the best to Giovanni. I hope he can do really well for the Team and for himself.”

Yamaha Extends Partnership With Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, SCRAMP

newspaper
-
0
Yamaha Extends Partnership With Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, SCRAMP

YAMAHA EXPANDS SUPPORT TO ENSURE U.S. FANS HAVE MOTOGP FOR YEARS TO COME Partnership With SCRAMP Will Continue Through 2010 MONTEREY, Calif. (April 11, 2006) The Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) announced today that Yamaha Motor Corporation has extended its partnership with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca that will ensure its support of the facility through 2010. A “Proud Sponsor of the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix”, Yamaha has contributed a significant portion of the $7 million in safety modifications and improvements this year at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. This falls on the heels of the $2 million in changes contributed by Yamaha that allowed the MotoGP World Championship to return to the United States and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 2005. The 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix was the largest event in the 50-year history of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with a weekend attendance of 153,563. “After the success of last year’s event, we all jumped at the opportunity to continue our relationship with SCRAMP,” said Bob Starr, Corporate Communications Manager of Yamaha Motor Corporation. “The funds will ultimately be used to improve rider safety and ensure everyone will enjoy MotoGP racing here in the U.S. for years to come.” The Yamaha Marketplace, the well-known and highly attended vendor area located in the lakebed area of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, will also continue through 2010. The Yamaha Marketplace contains vendors representing all areas of motorsports, motor sport memorabilia, motorcycling and motorcycling accessories. The Yamaha Marketplace also received significant expansion in 2006 allowing more area for fans and will also include an 8,000 square foot official Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca souvenir superstore during the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix. “Without Yamaha’s initial involvement with SCRAMP, there would not have been a Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca,” said Gill Campbell, CEO/General Manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. “To know that Yamaha was willing to step to the plate and continue that support through 2010 allows us to continue to host the MotoGP World Championship for the foreseeable future and keep Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca among the world’s premier racing facilities.” Tickets for Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca’s 50th Season of Racing, including the U.S. Sports Car Invitational featuring the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series May 5-7, the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix July 21-23, the 33rd Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races August 18-20 and the Monterey Sports Car Championships featuring the American Le Mans Series October 20-22, are on-sale now. Tickets and more information are available by calling (800) 327-SECA or on-line at www.laguna-seca.com. About Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and SCRAMP: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca was built in 1957 and has been operated since its inception by the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP). The world-renowned 2.238-mile, 11-turn permanent road course has seen many of the all-time greats in motorsports grace its technically challenging layout that includes the spectacular signature Corkscrew (Turns 8 and 8A). Among the many who have raced here are the likes of Mario Andretti, Wayne Rainey, Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, Michael Andretti, Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jackie Stewart and on and on through a virtual who’s who of automobile and motorcycle racing. SCRAMP is a not-for-profit corporation that donates net proceeds from each race season to the volunteer organizations that help put on the events at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Anthony Gobert To Race As Wild Card In Valencia Round Of Superbike World Championship

newspaper
-
0
Anthony Gobert To Race As Wild Card In Valencia Round Of Superbike World Championship

Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock FIM Cup Valencia-SPA, 23/04/2006: Wild-card riders The wild-card riders who will race in the Superbike and Supersport World Championship and Superstock FIM Cup rounds scheduled on the circuit of Valencia on April 23 next, are the following : Start no. Rider Nationality Bike Team Superbike 27, Anthony Gobert (AUS-Suzuki GSX-R1000) Coronas Suzuki Motorrad 32, Javier Del Amor (SPA-Honda CBR1000RR) Honda BQR 33, José David De Gea (SPA-Honda CBR1000RR) Honda BQR 34, Josep Monge (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R1) Promoracing 35, Sergio Fuertes (SPA-Suzuki GSX-R1000) Coronas Suzuki Motorrad 66, Norino Brignola (ITA-Ducati 999RS) Team Guandalini Supersport 33, Victor Carrasco (SPA-Honda CBR600RR) Honda BQR 35, Jordi Torres (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R6) Speed Moto Superstock 36, Ivan Silva (SPA-Kawasaki ZX-10R) Luis d’Antin 37, Francesco Javier Oliver (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R1) Alapont Competicion

Buell Delays Production Of XB-RR To Investigate Mechanical Failures At Daytona

newspaper
-
0
Buell Delays Production Of XB-RR To Investigate Mechanical Failures At Daytona

Buell XBRR Production Delayed to Enable Product Enhancements EAST TROY, Wis. (April 11, 2006) Citing ongoing investigation into the causes of the mechanical failures that forced the early retirement of four first production-run Buell XBRRs from their competition debut at the Daytona 200 in March and the development of upgraded components, Buell Motorcycles announced it will delay full production of its Firebolt XB12R-based race bike until late-April or early May. “We believe we’ve identified the root causes of the failures at Daytona, but we need to do more development and testing before we’re ready to go forward with the production run,” said Erik Buell, Chairman and Chief Technical Officer. “We want to make sure these bikes are turn-key reliable for privateer race teams.” The delay means the delivery of XBRRs to privateer race teams will not happen in time for the upcoming AMA Formula Xtreme rounds at Barber Motorsports Park and California Speedway in April. Buell said they may use the American Sportbike Racing Association/Championship Cup Series races at Road America held April 21-23 in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, for additional testing. “Daytona was a real test for the XBRR and the dealer-sponsored teams that entered the race,” Buell said. “We learned a lot and we’re refitting those bikes and developing solutions to the problems we encountered. We won’t begin final production of the XBRR until we’re confident we’ve got these issues sorted out.” The Buell XBRR is a limited-edition production racing motorcycle based on the Firebolt XB12R and designed exclusively for closed-course competition. It offers private racers a professional-level, race-ready, production-based platform. Buell will be producing a total of 50 XBRR motorcycles this year. 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.

Video Highlights Of Endurance World Championship Will Be Available Online

newspaper
-
0
Video Highlights Of Endurance World Championship Will Be Available Online

World Endurance Video Highlights Available on Your Computer This Friday (14th April) will see the launch of the MotorTV.it coverage of the World Endurance Championship. 2005 Review, Assen 500 Preview The first downloads will be a 26 minute review of the 2005 World Endurance season and a brief preview of the 2006 Assen 500 race. Both of these programmes will be available when the service launches on the 14th of April. Assen 500 Highlights A week later the 26 minute Assen 500 highlights programme will be available, along with a number of shorter fly-on-the-wall features covering testing, pit work and life behind the scenes of the World Endurance Championship. Le Mans 24 Hour Highlights The highlights show featuring the Le Mans 24 Hour race will be online the following week, and for the rest of the season race highlights will be online on the Friday following each race. And there’s more”¦ Between races other programmes will look at various aspects of the World Endurance Championship, building up over the season into an impressive and unique database of video content. www.MotorTV.it Don’t forget to bookmark www.MotorTV.it in your web browser, and make sure to visit the site this Friday, the 14th of April, when the first videos will be available.

Team Klaffi Honda Previews This Week’s World Superbike Test At Misano

newspaper
-
0
Team Klaffi Honda Previews This Week’s World Superbike Test At Misano

Official Test at Misano 12th and 13th April Just one week before the first European round of World’s Superbike Championship at Valencia the second official test is scheduled for the riders. The test will be held at Misano/Adriatico on Wednesday 12th and Thursday13th April. All riders take part. Only Team Winston ten Kate Honda is missing. Alex Barros raced at Misano several years ago. But the track was modified meanwhile and therefore the course now is new for him. There are two main tasks Alex will focus on at Misano. Alex will do as many kilometres as possible to become acquainted with the course. The aerodynamics of his Klaffi Honda Fireblade has been improved. Now Alex has to check this new aerodynamic package on the track. Alex and the team will spend two busy days at Misano. Immediately after the test at Misano the team moves to Spain. The first European race takes place 21st to 23rd April at Valencia.

Miller Motorsports Park, Honda Announce Partnership

newspaper
-
0
Miller Motorsports Park, Honda Announce Partnership

TOOELE COUNTY, UTAH – Miller Motorsports Park today announced a 3-year partnership agreement with American Honda. Honda will be the official motorcycle, scooter, and ATV of Miller Motorsports Park. Honda will also be the title sponsor of the June 16-18 AMA (American Motorcyclist Association)Superbike and Supermoto Championship, presented by Parts Unlimited. Tickets are already on sale for The Honda Summit of Speed at Miller Motorsports Park (www.MillerMotorPark.com). Honda will also be the title sponsor of the 2007 and 2008 events at Miller. In addition, Honda is the presenting sponsor of the Plaza Cycle Masters of the Mountains Roadracing Championship Series at Miller and is the naming sponsor of the Honda SuperMoto School at Miller. The Honda announcement took place in the new media center overlooking the track at Miller Motorsports Park. Honda representatives and journalists from the nation’s leading motorcycle magazines were present. Representing Miller Motorsports Park, Director of Motorcycle Programs Dan Solomon said, “This is a very exciting day, as we enter into what we hope will be a very long relationship with Honda. For several months, as I have interacted with various divisions of the company, I have become more and more convinced that the philosophies of our two companies will work very well together. We have many new ideas being shared across the table which will help solidify our presence as a home for all types of motorcyclists.” Track designer and CEO/General Manager Alan Wilson noted, “Honda is a respected corporate partner and we are pleased to be associated with this company. We have built this track to the highest standards. Honda also represents the highest standards in its industry.” Honda Senior Vice President Ray Blank commented. “American Honda is thrilled to have the first Miller Motorsports Park sponsor relationship and be part of launching their state-of-the-art complex. It is obvious to us that everyone at MMP is not only passionate about racing but is dedicated to creating a unique world-class experience for both racers and fans.” Miller Motorsports Park kicks off a busy summer with a free sneak peek for the public on Sat., June 10.

American Noyes Co-rides To Endurance Win In Spain

Folch Yamaha (Noyes-Salom-Salom) Wins Six Hours of Almeria by Five Laps Folch Yamaha, Spain’s top endurance racing team for many years, opened defense of their Spanish Endurance title with a convincing victory at record pace at the Circuit of Almeria. Team leader Kenny Noyes was joined by the Salom brothers, Antonio and David, and the trio took their Michelin-shod Yamaha R1 to a five-lap victory over the Motobox Yamaha team of Pitarch-Segarra-Segarra. The Kawasaki Autoferro team of Perez-Perez-Gil was third, nine laps back of the winners. The second Folch entry of Hervas-Cabana-Lara were running second to their team mates when they were forced to retire with a blown head gasket. Team owner Josep Folch has not yet decided on his final line-up for the two machines he is entering in the World Endurance round scheduled for Albacete on April 20-21. “We found two problems with our winning R1 at Almeria, plus the gasket problem on the second bike, so we have work to do.” said Folch. “The lead bike had a problem with the quick-change rear hub that we found during qualifying and during the race we lost a couple of laps replacing a gear lever, a problem caused by a mistake I made in designing the new linkage. We’ll have both problems sorted out before the next national at Albacete on April 30 and we are gearing up to make a real run at the World Championship round at Albacete on May 20-21. So far we have been third and second in the Eight Hours of Albacete World Championship rounds that we have finished. We were second last year with Noyes, Ribalta (who has gone to Motorrad Suzuki) and Cabana. This year we are going to use only two riders in the World Championship race, the two fastest, Noyes for sure”¦he set a lap record here in 1.41.0 in practice and was the fastest rider in the race every time out, and probably Josep Monge. Monge is still recovering from a badly broken wrist and we decided to send Kenny out this time with the two Salom brothers, both young riders who performed well. When it comes to the 24 Hours of the Circuit of Catalunya, we’ll go with Noyes, Monge and Salvador Cabana. We want to win the 24 Hours again, because last year we hit un-flagged oil with two hours to go when we were leading and we were only able to finish second to Catala Suzuki.” Noyes’ next ride will be in the Valencia round of the World Supersport Championship on April 23, where he replaces David Checa on the GMT94 Yamaha R6 for Yamaha France. “This was a good tune-up for the season,” said Noyes. “But for the World Endurance round we are going to have to run road race pace for the whole eight hours. I have to forget about the R1 for a while and concentrate on the R6. The only way to keep concentration in a six hour race when you have such a big lead is to keep a steady, fast but safe pace. Even though the safety car was on the track twice this year and did not go out at all last year, we broke the record set last year.” Results Six Hours of Almeria (Round Run of Spanish Endurance) 1. Folch Yamaha YZF-R1 (Noyes-Salom-Salom) 200 laps 6:01.12.6 2. Motobox Yamaha YZF-R1 (Pitarch-Segarra-Segarra) 195 laps 3. Autoferro Kawasaki ZX-10R (Perez-Perez-Gil) 191 laps Starters 20 teams Finishers 15 teams

Harley-Davidson Announces Another Record Financial Quarter

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES FIRST QUARTER RESULTS Milwaukee, WI (April 12, 2006) – Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 26, 2006. Revenue for the quarter was $1.29 billion compared with $1.24 billion in the year-ago quarter, a 4.0 percent increase. Net income for the quarter was $234.6 million compared to $227.2 million, an increase of 3.2 percent over the first quarter of 2005. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $0.86, an 11.7 percent increase compared with last year’s $0.77. “Harley-Davidson is off to an excellent start for 2006, having achieved record revenue and earnings,” said Jim Ziemer, President and Chief Executive Officer, Harley-Davidson, Inc. “In addition, our dealers continued their retail sales growth momentum from the second half of 2005 as motorcycle sales increased by approximately 7 percent worldwide in the first quarter. With the increased seasonality in our business, we are pleased with this retail sales performance,” said Ziemer. Harley-Davidson’s second quarter shipment plan is 78,000 2006 model year motorcycles. Production in the second quarter will also include approximately 13,000 2007 models to prepare for the new model introduction in mid July; however, these 2007 motorcycles will not be shipped until the third quarter. The Company’s wholesale shipment target for the calendar year 2006 remains between 348,000 and 352,000 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. “We believe that the prospects for retail growth remain strong and support a wholesale unit growth rate in the range of 5 to 9 percent annually and an annual EPS growth rate of 11 to 17 percent,” said Ziemer. Motorcycles and Related Products Segment First Quarter Results Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $1.01 billion, an increase of $29.6 million, or 3.0 percent over the same period last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 79,506 units, an increase of 2,790 units, or 3.6 percent over last year’s first quarter. Revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $182.9 million, an increase of $6.0 million, or 3.4 percent over the year-ago quarter. Revenue from General Merchandise, which consists of MotorClothes™ apparel and collectibles, totaled $68.6 million, an increase of $9.1 million, or 15.3 percent. For the long term, the Company expects the growth rate for P&A revenue to be slightly higher than Harley-Davidson’s motorcycle shipment growth rate, and the General Merchandise growth rate is expected to be lower than the motorcycle shipment growth rate. Gross margin for the first quarter of 2006 was 38.4 percent of revenue, up from 37.6 percent for the same period in 2005. Operating margin increased from 24.2 percent in the first quarter of 2005 to 24.3 percent in the first quarter of 2006. Motorcycle Retail Sales Data Worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 6.9 percent for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. In the U.S., retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 5.8 percent for the quarter. The heavyweight motorcycle market in the U.S. increased 6.8 for the same period. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 11.6 percent in international markets during the first quarter of 2006 compared with the first quarter of 2005. First quarter retail sales were up 16.3 percent in Japan and 6.6 percent in Europe. Data is listed in the accompanying tables. Financial Services Segment Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) reported first quarter operating income of $51.6 million, a decrease of $1.9 million, or 3.6 percent, compared to the year-ago quarter. This decrease was primarily due to a lower year-over-year gain on the current securitization. The first quarter securitization of $730 million in motorcycle retail loans resulted in a gain of $8.6 million, compared to the first quarter 2005 gain of $19.2 million. The 1.2 percent gain as a percentage of loans sold is consistent with management’s prior guidance for the first quarter of 2006 of 1.0 to 1.4 percent. For the long term, the Company expects the HDFS operating income growth rate to be slightly higher than the growth rate of Harley-Davidson motorcycle shipments. Income Tax Rate The Company’s first quarter effective income tax rate was 36.0 percent compared to 35.5 percent in the same quarter last year. This increase was due to the expiration of the federal research and development tax credit as of December 31, 2005. The Company expects its annual effective tax rate in 2006 to be 35.5 percent assuming the retroactive reinstatement of this tax credit. Cash Flow Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.11 billion as of March 26, 2006, an increase of $65.7 million during the first quarter. Cash flow from operations was $365.2 million and capital expenditures were $36.0 million during the first quarter. Stock Repurchase The Company repurchased 2.1 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $107.1 million during the first quarter of 2006. These shares were repurchased under an authorization from the Company’s Board of Directors to buy back 20 million shares. A total of 17.9 million shares remain under this authorization. Company Background Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and their retail customers. Forward-Looking Statements The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” or “estimates” or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. The Company’s ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company’s ability to (i) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (ii) manage production capacity and production changes, (iii) manage supply chain issues, (iv) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (v) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (vi) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers and distributors, (vii) continue to develop the capacity of its distributor and dealer network, (viii) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (ix) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (x) adjust to worldwide economic and political conditions, including changes in fuel prices and interest rates, (xi) manage the credit quality and recovery rates of HDFS’s loan portfolio, (xii) retain and attract talented employees and (xiii) detect any defects in our motorcycles to minimize delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation. In addition, the Company could experience delays in the operation of manufacturing facilities as a result of work stoppages, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company’s ability to sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services also depends on the ability of the Company’s independent dealer network to sell them to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company’s independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.

Updated Post: Bayliss Leads All On First Day Of World Superbike Testing At Misano

FPR pair on track in Italy The opening day of the second official World Superbike test at Misano, Italy, provided more encouragement for the Foggy PETRONAS Racing pair of Steve Martin and Craig Jones. Although the cool conditions did not resemble those expected for the June race, Steve was able to run two race simulations and finished the day 11th fastest of a near-complete World Superbike field. However, spots of rain towards the end of the afternoon session prevented the Australian, from using a qualifying tyre and finishing further up the standings. Team-mate Craig Jones, on his first outing at the circuit, made steady progress throughout the day and finished with a creditable time of 1:37.999, only just over half a second slower than Steve’s fastest time in the races here last year. Steve said: “We had a nice safe day and, although it is a pity we weren’t able to use a qualifier, I am more concerned about finding a setting for the race than doing fast times during these two days. I was also able to test an engine specification with a lighter crankshaft and, while there was no noticeable difference, I did go faster on that bike by around half a second.” Craig said: “I was happy to do more than 80 laps and my times came down gradually throughout the day. I hit a bit of a brick wall mid-way through the afternoon session but conditions were not too great then and times were dropping. I like the circuit as it has lots of flowing corners and the very fast corner on to the back straight and I am hoping to start tomorrow where we left off today as I think it is now just a case of getting more track experience. But I am still learning more about the bike with every session and am not too far off the point when I can start pushing for lap times.” Day one times, Superbike World Championship official test, Misano, Italy: 1 Bayliss 1:34.460; 2 Nieto 1:35.253; 3 Corser 1:35.274; 4 Lanzi 1:35.355; 5 Kagayama 1:35.641; 6 Haga 1:35.911; 7 Pitt 1:35.926; 8 Xaus 1:35.966; 9 Fabrizio 1:36.036; 10 Borciani 1:36.075; 11 Martin (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:35.608; 25 Jones (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:37.999 More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse: BAYLISS QUICKEST FOR DUCATI XEROX TEAM IN DAY 1 OF FGSPORT OFFICIAL TESTING AT MISANO ADRIATICO Misano Adriatico (Italy), Wednesday 12 April: Troy Bayliss again set the pace for the Ducati Xerox Team on the first day of a two-day FGSport official test at the Santamonica circuit in Misano Adriatico. Championship leader Bayliss, who had not raced at the Misano circuit since 2002, powered around in a time of 1m33.814s, just three-tenths of a second off his best lap of four years back and seven-tenths of a second quicker than Troy Corser (Suzuki). “On the last exit we had some spots of rain so it wasn’t worth trying to improve in the last few laps” declared Bayliss. “Overall we had a very good day, I haven’t been to Misano since 2002 so everything went OK and I felt comfortable on the bike just like I have been recently. Pretty much the first exit I got straight into good times this morning, and just continued testing a few tyres for Pirelli today and doing a little work on the bike, but honestly we haven’t changed it too much. Towards the end we did some really good laps on the race tyre just two three tenths slower than what I qualified on in 2002 so getting into the 33s on the race tyre was really good. The track is in a good condition, it’s maybe a bit bumpier since the last time here. Tomorrow I think I can go a few tenths quicker on the race tyre and maybe do a 32.9 if everything goes well.” Team-mate Lorenzo Lanzi set fourth quickest time today on the second 999F06, the 24-year-old Italian ending up just a fraction slower than Fonsi Nieto (Kawasaki) after 62 laps. Fourth quickest time is not bad and I am quite happy with the way things went” declared Lanzi. “I encountered traffic in the last few laps, the most important ones, because everyone was out on the track trying to improve, but I don’t want this to be seen as an excuse. We tried a few new things on the bikes and tomorrow we will continue with the development work. I only tested rear tyres today but we did a lot of work on the bike set-up and the tyres I’ll leave to the end in view of the race here in June. The track was good this morning but in the afternoon it got a bit worse and there were a few drops of rain towards the end”. TIMES: 1. Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) 1m33.814s; 2. Corser (Suzuki) 1m34.522s; 3. Nieto (Kawasaki) 1m34.752s; 4. Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) 1m34.819s; 5. Haga (Yamaha) 1m35.096s; 6. Fabrizio (Honda) 1m35.131s; 7. Kagayama (Suzuki) 1m35.160s; 8. Xaus (Ducati) 1m35.208s; 9. Laconi (Kawasaki) 1m35.405s; 10. Foret (Suzuki) 1m35.586s; etc. More, from a press release issued by FGSport Group: BAYLISS BESTS THE COMPETITION ONCE MORE – 2001 CHAMPION SETS EARLY PACE AT MISANO TEST Troy Bayliss (Ducati Xerox) came close to breaking his own outright SBK Misano circuit record on the first of two days of Superbike testing at the 4.060km circuit on the Adriatic coast, as he proved to be the only rider under the 1’34 barrier all day. His best first day lap of 1’33.814 beat the next fastest SBK regular by fully 0.7 of a second. That rider proved to be 1996 and 2005 World Champion Troy Corser (Alstare Corona Extra Suzuki), putting in a late fast lap as the first light spots of rain started to fall, albeit temporarily, and to no great detrimental effect. NIETO ON FORM ON DAY ONE Spanish rider Fonsi Nieto and his PSG-1 Kawasaki were more than welcome additions to the upper echelons of the first day’s rankings, in an eventual third place on the stopwatches. Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati Xerox) gave the locals something to cheer about, finishing fourth fastest on his factory Duke. The top five was rounded out by Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia), trying out the latest engine-mapping developments on his YZF-R1. The CBR1000RR of SBK rookie Michel Fabrizio made it five different machines in the top six positions, at a circuit he knows well. The top Petronas FP-1 triple belonged to Steve Martin, one place outside the top ten, and a second faster on race tyres than last year’s similar performances. BIG FIELD AT MISANO TESTS Twenty-six riders tested at Misano, with the only big names missing those of Winston Ten Kate Honda’s James Toseland and Karl Muggeridge. Muggeridge will be forced to miss the Valencia SBK round on April 23, thanks to compression injuries to two of his vertebra. Experienced Italian rider, Giovanni Bussei, will replace Muggeridge for that race but the Aussie is expected to return at Monza, for round four of the 2006 series. Another Honda rider, Pierfrancesco Chili, had the extreme misfortune to suffer a highside crash in the morning Superbike session, breaking his pelvis and two ribs on the exit of the Variante Arena chicane. The 41-year-old rider is expected to take some considerable time to recover from his injuries, and is currently in Riccione Hospital. SUPERSPORT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Kevin Curtain (Yamaha Motor Germany) proved to be the quickest rider in the middleweight class on day one, with a 1’36.927 lap. His early pace proved to be less than a tenth slower than the best ever, and was almost matched by his team-mate, Broc Parkes (Yamaha Motor Germany). Riding a Ducati SC Caracchi, in Kopron Edo Racing colours, Gianluca Nannelli only needed the afternoon session to post the third fastest time, a 1’37.483, only just ahead of Gianluca Vizziello’s Team Italia Yamaha. Josh Brookes continued his learning year in the Ducati SC Caracchi squad 17th fastest, having to sit out the afternoon session due to technical issues. Current championship leader Sebastien Charpentier and his Winston Ten Kate Honda team-mate Kenan Sofuoglu did not test at Misano. More, from a press release issued by Scuderia SC Caracchi: FIRST TEST DAY AT MISANO Started today at Misano’s Santamonica circuit the last general test session for Superbike and Supersport scheduled by FG Sport. It has been a full day for SC Caracchi Team riders, in order to find a good setting looking both at next championship race at Valencia next April 23 and San Marino round to be held on this track next June. Unforeseeable weather in this first day, with some very light shower not even to water the track, and more bad for the psychological point of view as for the track grip. In Superbike Roberto Rolfo, away from Misano since 1997, focused his job in the basic set up, postponing to tomorrow all fast lap attempt. Rolfo completed during the two sessions of today a total of 74 laps, recording a fastest lap time in 1’36″369 during the afternoon session. “Also if today we focused our job for the set up I can’t say to be satisfied for the recorded lap time.” declared Roberto Rolfo at the end of the day “However I believe we found a good set up, so I’m quite satisfied and for tomorrow we could look for a faster lap time. I’m away from Misano for about 8 years, so I’ve been forced also put in the memory the track that I like anyway. With the set up defined in the last session the bike has a good handling and the engine is powerful, here too we recorded the third top speed in the speed trap, very close to the leader.” The greatest new in Supersport has been the return of Gianluca Nannelli in the team. The Floentine rider closed his partnership with the team which started the season and contested the first two rounds and now, together with Stefano Caracchi, is studying the possibility to finish the season on the SC Caracchi 748R. Slacked by an electric trouble during the morning, Nannelli practiced only in the afternoon recording a very good 1’37″483, third fastest of the day, just half a second behind the leader. Nannelli rode a total of 28 laps and was quite satisfied at the end. “The package of the 748R is very improved as to last year bike.” said Gianluca “The handling is better and better, the engine is easier to manage and is very fast, we recorded the maximum top speed of the day. In the morning we had an electrical defect, but then the guys made a fantastic job and the bike was perfect. At the moment I can’t say if I’ll be able to ride at Valencia on the 749R; I would like to have the possibility to end the season without troubles, seriously and not to act as a stop gap as has been in all the proposal I’ve had in the last days. I hope to stay in this team, where I know everyone and I know as they operate. If I’ve been so fast here in Misano, that’s not my preferred circuit…” Josh Brookes has not been able to get a good result, with a fastest lap time of 1’40″337 after 39 laps, and at the end of the day he was looking very disappointed. Quite close to the Australian rider score is Luka Nedog, who recorded 1’40″490 and is quite satisfied. “Today we made a great work.” said the young Slovenian “This track is new for me, so at the beginning I focused to learn it. That’s a circuit where to be fast looks easy, but where is very difficult to be actually very fast. Today I cover a total of 53 laps. During afternoon session I improved my lap time, running very close, just 15 hundred of second from my teammate score. Tomorrow we’ll define the final set up and we’ll se to get a good result.”

Bussei To Replace Injured Muggeridge On Winston Ten Kate Honda Superbike At Valencia

GIOVANNI BUSSEI WITH THE WINSTON TEN KATE HONDA TEAM TO REPLACE KARL MUGGERIDGE WHO IS STILL RECOVERING FROM INJURY Karl Muggeridge, rider of the Winston Ten Kate Honda Team, really wanted to participate to the 3rd Superbike World Championship round of the 2006 season, but doctors have been really prudent from the first exams. The Mobile Clinic’s doctors declared from the beginning, and after further medical controls in Switzerland and Australia the result was the same. Karl will not be able to compete on the Ricardo Tormo circuit in the next weekend of race in Valencia. A pity for the Aussie rider who was looking for revenge after not such a lucky start of the season. The Winston Ten Kate Honda Team decided that his position on the second Honda CBR1000 will be taken by experienced Italian rider Giovanni Bussei. Ronald Ten Kate Winston Ten Kate Honda Team Manager “I am really sorry Karl will not be able to ride with us in Valencia. He seemed to get better and better day by day, but at the end I think he took, together with the doctors the right decision. It’s not worth it to ruin a season and put in danger his future for a single race. I am confident he will be back in Monza. Giovanni Bussei will be riding with us in Valencia next weekend. Giovanni demonstrated to be a good rider in the past with previous experience with Pirelli Tyres which is a key point. He really deserves a chance with our Team also for what he has done in Imola in 2004. In that race, during the warm up lap, he transformed into a “taxi rider” and brought our rider Chris Vermeulen back to the box after a fall, allowing him to participate in a crucial race in which Chris was fighting for the Title. This showed the sportsmanship Giovanni has. We could consider it a payback from our side. It wasn’t easy to find a rider in this moment of the season, but we are very pleased to work with Giovanni.” Giovanni Bussei Winston Ten Kate Honda rider “I couldn’t believe it when I received the phone call yesterday afternoon. I was really happy. The chance to ride the Honda CBR 1000, which finished second in last year championship, is a fantastic opportunity for me. After my injury at Mangy Cours last year, I wasn’t planning to find any teams for the 2006 season, I had some offers but I preferred to recover and be back at the best physical conditions. Nothing is for sure yet, but I may possibly participate to Supermotard World Championship to keep in shape. But what is happening now is just incredible. The last rumours were saying that Karl was going to recover, and then my phone rang. It was Ronald Ten Kate. Now I really hope to payback the trust they gave me by bringing as many points as possible to the Winston Ten Kate Honda Team. Of course I am sorry for Karl, I know how he is feeling at the moment. I honestly hope he will get well soon.” Karl Muggeridge Winston Ten Kate Honda rider “The doctors convinced me: it’s not worth it to risk a season, and not only, for a race. The injury is in a delicate position, and even if I don’t feel any pain, a hard fall could make it much worse. From a couple of weeks I am not taking anymore painkillers, therefore I was really positive about being able to compete in Valencia, but this morning exams weren’t as good as I thought. I will have to put through treatments and exercising to race in Monza in the first weekend of May. This is why I don’t think I’ll be able to follow the race from the track, but I will probably remain in Zurich with my family. I wish all the best to Giovanni. I hope he can do really well for the Team and for himself.”

Yamaha Extends Partnership With Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, SCRAMP

YAMAHA EXPANDS SUPPORT TO ENSURE U.S. FANS HAVE MOTOGP FOR YEARS TO COME Partnership With SCRAMP Will Continue Through 2010 MONTEREY, Calif. (April 11, 2006) The Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) announced today that Yamaha Motor Corporation has extended its partnership with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca that will ensure its support of the facility through 2010. A “Proud Sponsor of the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix”, Yamaha has contributed a significant portion of the $7 million in safety modifications and improvements this year at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. This falls on the heels of the $2 million in changes contributed by Yamaha that allowed the MotoGP World Championship to return to the United States and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 2005. The 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix was the largest event in the 50-year history of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with a weekend attendance of 153,563. “After the success of last year’s event, we all jumped at the opportunity to continue our relationship with SCRAMP,” said Bob Starr, Corporate Communications Manager of Yamaha Motor Corporation. “The funds will ultimately be used to improve rider safety and ensure everyone will enjoy MotoGP racing here in the U.S. for years to come.” The Yamaha Marketplace, the well-known and highly attended vendor area located in the lakebed area of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, will also continue through 2010. The Yamaha Marketplace contains vendors representing all areas of motorsports, motor sport memorabilia, motorcycling and motorcycling accessories. The Yamaha Marketplace also received significant expansion in 2006 allowing more area for fans and will also include an 8,000 square foot official Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca souvenir superstore during the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix. “Without Yamaha’s initial involvement with SCRAMP, there would not have been a Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca,” said Gill Campbell, CEO/General Manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. “To know that Yamaha was willing to step to the plate and continue that support through 2010 allows us to continue to host the MotoGP World Championship for the foreseeable future and keep Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca among the world’s premier racing facilities.” Tickets for Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca’s 50th Season of Racing, including the U.S. Sports Car Invitational featuring the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series May 5-7, the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix July 21-23, the 33rd Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races August 18-20 and the Monterey Sports Car Championships featuring the American Le Mans Series October 20-22, are on-sale now. Tickets and more information are available by calling (800) 327-SECA or on-line at www.laguna-seca.com. About Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and SCRAMP: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca was built in 1957 and has been operated since its inception by the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP). The world-renowned 2.238-mile, 11-turn permanent road course has seen many of the all-time greats in motorsports grace its technically challenging layout that includes the spectacular signature Corkscrew (Turns 8 and 8A). Among the many who have raced here are the likes of Mario Andretti, Wayne Rainey, Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, Michael Andretti, Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jackie Stewart and on and on through a virtual who’s who of automobile and motorcycle racing. SCRAMP is a not-for-profit corporation that donates net proceeds from each race season to the volunteer organizations that help put on the events at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Anthony Gobert To Race As Wild Card In Valencia Round Of Superbike World Championship

Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock FIM Cup Valencia-SPA, 23/04/2006: Wild-card riders The wild-card riders who will race in the Superbike and Supersport World Championship and Superstock FIM Cup rounds scheduled on the circuit of Valencia on April 23 next, are the following : Start no. Rider Nationality Bike Team Superbike 27, Anthony Gobert (AUS-Suzuki GSX-R1000) Coronas Suzuki Motorrad 32, Javier Del Amor (SPA-Honda CBR1000RR) Honda BQR 33, José David De Gea (SPA-Honda CBR1000RR) Honda BQR 34, Josep Monge (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R1) Promoracing 35, Sergio Fuertes (SPA-Suzuki GSX-R1000) Coronas Suzuki Motorrad 66, Norino Brignola (ITA-Ducati 999RS) Team Guandalini Supersport 33, Victor Carrasco (SPA-Honda CBR600RR) Honda BQR 35, Jordi Torres (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R6) Speed Moto Superstock 36, Ivan Silva (SPA-Kawasaki ZX-10R) Luis d’Antin 37, Francesco Javier Oliver (SPA-Yamaha YZF-R1) Alapont Competicion

Buell Delays Production Of XB-RR To Investigate Mechanical Failures At Daytona

Buell XBRR Production Delayed to Enable Product Enhancements EAST TROY, Wis. (April 11, 2006) Citing ongoing investigation into the causes of the mechanical failures that forced the early retirement of four first production-run Buell XBRRs from their competition debut at the Daytona 200 in March and the development of upgraded components, Buell Motorcycles announced it will delay full production of its Firebolt XB12R-based race bike until late-April or early May. “We believe we’ve identified the root causes of the failures at Daytona, but we need to do more development and testing before we’re ready to go forward with the production run,” said Erik Buell, Chairman and Chief Technical Officer. “We want to make sure these bikes are turn-key reliable for privateer race teams.” The delay means the delivery of XBRRs to privateer race teams will not happen in time for the upcoming AMA Formula Xtreme rounds at Barber Motorsports Park and California Speedway in April. Buell said they may use the American Sportbike Racing Association/Championship Cup Series races at Road America held April 21-23 in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, for additional testing. “Daytona was a real test for the XBRR and the dealer-sponsored teams that entered the race,” Buell said. “We learned a lot and we’re refitting those bikes and developing solutions to the problems we encountered. We won’t begin final production of the XBRR until we’re confident we’ve got these issues sorted out.” The Buell XBRR is a limited-edition production racing motorcycle based on the Firebolt XB12R and designed exclusively for closed-course competition. It offers private racers a professional-level, race-ready, production-based platform. Buell will be producing a total of 50 XBRR motorcycles this year. 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.

Video Highlights Of Endurance World Championship Will Be Available Online

World Endurance Video Highlights Available on Your Computer This Friday (14th April) will see the launch of the MotorTV.it coverage of the World Endurance Championship. 2005 Review, Assen 500 Preview The first downloads will be a 26 minute review of the 2005 World Endurance season and a brief preview of the 2006 Assen 500 race. Both of these programmes will be available when the service launches on the 14th of April. Assen 500 Highlights A week later the 26 minute Assen 500 highlights programme will be available, along with a number of shorter fly-on-the-wall features covering testing, pit work and life behind the scenes of the World Endurance Championship. Le Mans 24 Hour Highlights The highlights show featuring the Le Mans 24 Hour race will be online the following week, and for the rest of the season race highlights will be online on the Friday following each race. And there’s more”¦ Between races other programmes will look at various aspects of the World Endurance Championship, building up over the season into an impressive and unique database of video content. www.MotorTV.it Don’t forget to bookmark www.MotorTV.it in your web browser, and make sure to visit the site this Friday, the 14th of April, when the first videos will be available.

Team Klaffi Honda Previews This Week’s World Superbike Test At Misano

Official Test at Misano 12th and 13th April Just one week before the first European round of World’s Superbike Championship at Valencia the second official test is scheduled for the riders. The test will be held at Misano/Adriatico on Wednesday 12th and Thursday13th April. All riders take part. Only Team Winston ten Kate Honda is missing. Alex Barros raced at Misano several years ago. But the track was modified meanwhile and therefore the course now is new for him. There are two main tasks Alex will focus on at Misano. Alex will do as many kilometres as possible to become acquainted with the course. The aerodynamics of his Klaffi Honda Fireblade has been improved. Now Alex has to check this new aerodynamic package on the track. Alex and the team will spend two busy days at Misano. Immediately after the test at Misano the team moves to Spain. The first European race takes place 21st to 23rd April at Valencia.

Miller Motorsports Park, Honda Announce Partnership

TOOELE COUNTY, UTAH – Miller Motorsports Park today announced a 3-year partnership agreement with American Honda. Honda will be the official motorcycle, scooter, and ATV of Miller Motorsports Park. Honda will also be the title sponsor of the June 16-18 AMA (American Motorcyclist Association)Superbike and Supermoto Championship, presented by Parts Unlimited. Tickets are already on sale for The Honda Summit of Speed at Miller Motorsports Park (www.MillerMotorPark.com). Honda will also be the title sponsor of the 2007 and 2008 events at Miller. In addition, Honda is the presenting sponsor of the Plaza Cycle Masters of the Mountains Roadracing Championship Series at Miller and is the naming sponsor of the Honda SuperMoto School at Miller. The Honda announcement took place in the new media center overlooking the track at Miller Motorsports Park. Honda representatives and journalists from the nation’s leading motorcycle magazines were present. Representing Miller Motorsports Park, Director of Motorcycle Programs Dan Solomon said, “This is a very exciting day, as we enter into what we hope will be a very long relationship with Honda. For several months, as I have interacted with various divisions of the company, I have become more and more convinced that the philosophies of our two companies will work very well together. We have many new ideas being shared across the table which will help solidify our presence as a home for all types of motorcyclists.” Track designer and CEO/General Manager Alan Wilson noted, “Honda is a respected corporate partner and we are pleased to be associated with this company. We have built this track to the highest standards. Honda also represents the highest standards in its industry.” Honda Senior Vice President Ray Blank commented. “American Honda is thrilled to have the first Miller Motorsports Park sponsor relationship and be part of launching their state-of-the-art complex. It is obvious to us that everyone at MMP is not only passionate about racing but is dedicated to creating a unique world-class experience for both racers and fans.” Miller Motorsports Park kicks off a busy summer with a free sneak peek for the public on Sat., June 10.

1...6,2596,2606,261...7,720Page 6,260 of 7,720

Follow us

43,094FansLike
19,223FollowersFollow
16,430FollowersFollow
1,200SubscribersSubscribe

Menu

Information

© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AUTHOR LOGIN