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Repsol Lubricants To Continue As Title Sponsor Of AMA Superstock Class

REPSOL LUBRICANTS RETURNS TO AMA SUPERSTOCK PICKERINGTON, Ohio (March 1, 2006) AMA Pro Racing announced today that Repsol will return as sponsor of the AMA Repsol Lubricants Superstock Series. Repsol has been the Superstock class sponsor since 2004 making this their third consecutive season as an AMA Pro Racing sponsor. The new agreement includes a comprehensive marketing approach to fans of AMA racing and features an advertising presence in American Motorcyclist, direct marketing opportunities with AMA members and sponsorship activation opportunities for top Repsol dealers who wish to be more involved with AMA racing. The sponsorship also includes an on-site component enabling Repsol to expose its brand to the hundreds of thousands of fans attending AMA Superbike Championship events. Repsol Brand Manager for North America, Ignacio Belloni had the following to say about his company’s involvement with AMA Championship racing: “For more than 40 years Repsol has been committed to supporting racing on a global basis, and we have seen great results in the U.S. since we launched the Repsol lubricants product line with our AMA Superstock Series sponsorship in 2004. Our partnership with AMA Pro Racing has been a great experience so far and we look forward to continuing it into the future.” John C. Farris, Jr., Vice-President Commercial Development for AMA Pro Racing added, “It’s fantastic to have Repsol return as a major sponsor in the AMA Superbike Championship. The company has been great to work with and it is gratifying to see our growing AMA Superbike property be recognized by a global brand like Repsol as such an effective marketing platform.” The 2006 AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited is set to begin next week at the legendary Daytona International Speedway. For more information, visit www.amasuperbike.com. About Repsol YPF One of the world’s ten largest private oil companies, Repsol YPF is an integrated oil and gas company operating in over 30 countries. For the last 40 years, Repsol products have been tested under the most demanding conditions, from MotoGP to the Dakar Rally obtaining more than 35 world championship titles. Now in 2006, the Repsol MotoGP team will feature Nicky Hayden, 2005 Laguna Seca winner and Dani Pedrosa, two time 250cc world champion! For more information, visit www.motousa.repsolypf.com or contact [email protected] About AMA Pro Racing AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its properties include the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series, the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF, the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited, the AMA Ford Quality Checked Flat Track Championship and the AMA Supermoto Championship. For more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit www.amaproracing.com.

New Sponsor For Pacific Track Time

Pacific Track Time To Be Supported by Catalyst Racing Composites Pacific Track Time, LLC, which holds premier trackday events at Thunderhill Raceway Park, Infineon Raceway, Buttonwillow Raceway, Mazda-Laguna Seca Raceway and Reno-Fernley Raceway, has announced it will be supported by Catalyst Racing Composites, a leader in high quality composite bodywork for road racing, drag racing, land speed racing and vintage motorcycles. Here at Pacific Track Time we’re very excited in welcoming Catalyst Racing Composites; quality, fitment and availability were essential to our riding staff, Mike and Bonni Verdugo of Catalyst Racing Composites have paved the way in providing outstanding products with unparalleled customer service. For additional information, go to: ~http://www.pacifictracktime.com~ ~http://www.catalystracingcomposites.com~

Rare Norton Racebikes Added To J. Wood & Company Auction In Daytona

More factory works road racers consigned to Daytona Auction March 10th J. Wood and Co has been consigned a 1950 Norton Manx that was sent to the Indian Sales team at Daytona. It is one of five bikes sent to the race in 1950. Indian placed first, second and fourth in the beach race. We also have another one of five works Norton Dominator twins that were sent to Daytona in 1964. This one is believed to have won the 100 mile race with Kenny Hayes aboard. Ronnie Rall placed 8th in the 200 mile race on Daytona’s high banks with one of the team bikes. Both of these machines have been restored and ridden with AHRMA. These bikes along with Cal Rayborn’s XRTT will give collectors a rare opportunity to purchase historic works race bikes. The bikes can be seen at the event in DeLand March 8th and 9th and will be sold at the auction starting at 1PM on Friday March 10th. For more information and photos, visit www.jwoodandcompany.com

Change Of Ownership At Ducati Moving Forward

Ducati and UBM sign preliminary contract to establish syndicate of stand-by underwriters for proposed capital increase. Bologna, March 1st, 2006 – Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. (NYSE: DMH and Borsa Italiana S.p.A: DMH), expressed satisfaction at the signing of the definitive contract between Texas Pacific Group and InvestIndustrial Holding S.A. for the transfer of 30% less one share (not considering treasury shares which may be retained by the Company) at Euro 0.85 per share. The Company has also signed a preliminary contract with UniCredit Banca Mobiliare, to establish a syndicate of stand-by underwriters relating to the proposed capital increase for a maximum of Euro 80 million in ordinary shares to be offered by way of subscription rights. Ducati has also obtained a new credit line of Euro 35 million from UniCredit Banca d’Impresa, which is guaranteed for a period of 5 years, and negotiations are continuing with other banks for a further Euro 25 million financing. Following communication of the signing of the acquisition agreement, a Ducati Board of Directors meeting has been convened to deliberate on the postponement of the Ordinary Shareholders Meeting which was scheduled for March 20th, 2006 (first call) and March 22nd, 2006 (second call), to appoint the new Board of Directors, among other items. It is expected that the meeting will be held before mid-April in order to allow the new shareholder to complete the transition of the controlling stake in time to present its own list of Board candidates. Closing of the transaction is expected by the end of March. “We are very satisfied that the change of ownership is drawing to the desired close, thereby ensuring the company’s relaunch”, declared Federico Minoli, Ducati’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We would like to thank Ducati’s banks, and in particular UniCredit Group, for their continuing confidence in the company”, said Enrico D’Onofrio, Chief Financial Officer at Ducati. Founded in 1926, Ducati develops racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport; Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and Sport Classic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at ~http://www.ducati.com~ This press release contains statements that are forward-looking and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, as described in documents previously filed by the Company with CONSOB and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These materials are not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Any public offering of the company’s securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the company and that will contain detailed information about the company and its management, including financial statements.

Lorenzo Tops First Day Of 250cc GP Testing At Catalunya

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FIM 250cc GP World Championship Test Times From Catalunya: 1. Jorge LORENZO, Aprilia, 1:47.622 2. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:47.949 3. Hector BARBERA, Aprilia, 1:48.082 4. Jakub SMRZ, Aprilia, 1:48.317 5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 1:48.374 6. Sebastian PORTO, Honda, 1:49.032 7. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 1:49.082 8. Yuki TAKAHASHI, Honda, 1:49.378 9. Marco SIMONCELLI, Gilera, 1:49.456 10. Arturo TIZON, Honda, 1:49.476 11. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:49.590 12. Martin CARDENAS, Honda, 1:49.620 13. Shuhei AOYAMA, Honda, 1:49.904 14. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:50.589 15. Dirk HEIDOLF, Aprilia, 1:50.651 16. Taro SEKIGUCHI, Aprilia, 1:50.715 17. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:51.146 18. Hiroshi AOYAMA, KTM, 1:51.211 19. Manuel POGGIALI, KTM, 1:51.471 20. Michele DANESE, Aprilia, 1:51.748 21. Jules CLUZEL, Aprilia, 1:52.169 22. Chaz DAVIES, Aprilia, 1:52.234 23. Arnaud VINCENT, Honda, 1:53.053 24. Jordi CARCHANO, Honda, 1:53.445 25. Alessio PALUMBO, Aprilia, 1:55.806 26. Luca MORELLI, Aprilia, 1:56.633 27. Julian MIRALLES, Aprilia, 1:57.658

KTM’s Kallio Fastest On Day Two Of 125cc GP Test At Catalunya

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FIM 125cc GP World Championship Test Times: 1. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:50.849 2. Lukas PESEK, Derbi, 1:51.158 3. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 1:51.356 4. Sergio GADEA, Aprilia, 1:51.365 5. Angel RODRIGUEZ, Aprilia, 1:51.382 6. Simone CORSI, Gilera, 1:51.495 7. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:51.499 8. Mattia PASINI, Aprilia, 1:51.692 9. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 1:51.743 10. Thomas LUTHI, Honda, 1:51.821 11. Gabor TALMACSI, Honda, 1:51.928 12. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 1:51.932 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Aprilia, 1:52.009 14. Joan OLIVE, Aprilia, 1:52.047 15. Aleix ESPARGARO, Honda, 1:52.192 16. Sandro CORTESE, Honda, 1:52.321 17. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Malaguti, 1:52.405 18. Fabrizio LAI, Honda, 1:52.506 19. Michele PIRRO, Aprilia, 1:52.616 20. Andrea IANNONE, Aprilia, 1:52.617

Kagayama Looking For Better Luck At Phillip Island World Superbike Event

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World Superbike Champion Troy Corser and Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra team mates Yukio Kagayama and Fabien Foret head to Australia this weekend on a mission to win. Australian Corser, who currently lies second in the series, will be on home ground and at one of his favourite circuits for the second round of the World Superbike Championship at Phillip Island as Kagayama and Foret hope to put the disappointment of the opening Qatar round last weekend behind them. Phillip Island is a circuit that is always regarded high up in the top five by riders and always produces spectacular racing and the opening round showed that this year’s series is going to be something special: Both Corser and fellow countryman Troy Bayliss, who leads the series, will want to make their mark on home soil, but there is no shortage of other riders waiting to make their mark – especially Kagayama who was cruelly robbed of victory in Qatar. Also fighting Corser and Bayliss will be fellow Aussies Karl Muggeridge (Honda) and Andrew Pitt (Yamaha) plus Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha), James Toseland (Honda) and Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati). Troy Corser: “Phillip Island is a real racers circuit and a blast to ride. If you know what you are doing, you can really enjoy yourself. And, if your bike works good there, you can normally use it as a base set-up elsewhere. It’s something special winning there and that’s what I’ll be chasing again this year.” Yukio Kagayama: “The first round this year was a bit disappointing because I didn’t finish a race! My friend Nori Haga took me out when I was in the lead in the first race with just one lap to go and that was the end of that. In the second race my bike had electronic problems which got worse with every lap and I had to retire. Last year in Qatar I won a race, but this year fortune did not smile on me so I aim to make up for it in Phillip Island.” Fabien Foret: “The first round in Qatar was a disappointment for me because I had actually gone well in the limited dry track time I had. In both races the bike suffered some problems which weren’t my fault. But this bike is just at the start of its development life. It was encouraging to be almost competitive straight out of the box and, if we can get the work done and do some testing, it will be a very good package. I didn’t score any points in the first round, so now my priority is to get some good results in Phillip Island.”

Marlboro Ducati Previews The Upcoming MotoGP Test At Catalunya

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BIG TEAMS GATHER IN SPAIN FOR MotoGP HORS D’OEUVRE The Catalunya Official MotoGP test session of March 3/4/5 is the first official engagement of the 2006 MotoGP World Championship, designed as a tantalising hors d’oeuvre to what is arguably the most keenly awaited season in bike racing history. The event unites all the 2006 MotoGP teams for the first time in Europe and will offer a fascinating insight into which riders will be racing up front at the season-opening Spanish GP on March 26. Like most other MotoGP outfits, the Ducati Marlboro Team has been busy in recent weeks attending private tests in Malaysia and Australia where Loris Capirossi and new-signing Sete Gibernau have topped the times on several occasions. Their impressive pace takes them to Catalunya in optimistic mood. The Desmosedici GP6 is an evolution of last year’s superb GP5 which won two MotoGP races. The bike has undergone a multitude of detail upgrades to improve all-round performance. The engine produces more power in a more controlled manner and uses less fuel, thanks to painstaking work on engine management and internal friction. The bike is also lighter and stiffer, following refinements to the frame, wheel rims and front forks, and also benefits from the impressive progress made by Bridgestone tyres. All in all, the GP6 is a more rider-friendly package, designed to give Capirossi and Gibernau competitive performance throughout the 17-race World Championship. Livio Suppo, Ducati MotoGP project leader “Catalunya is a big weekend for everyone, with an atmosphere similar to a real race! After many tests in faraway countries it’s nice to be back in Europe. And it’s great that most of our tests have gone well for us, apart from our last visit to Sepang which was spoiled by rain and Sete’s sickness. I’m very happy with the atmosphere within the team. Loris and Sete know each other well and are working together very effectively, which is so important at this stage of the season. The same goes for our people at the factory and also at Bridgestone – everyone is showing their usual commitment to development. In particular I would like to thank one of our most important technical partners, Shell Advance. We recently signed a three-year renewal of our partnership, because their knowledge and support is one of the key points in our success.” Loris Capirossi, Ducati Marlboro Team rider “I’m really looking forward to the Catalunya tests because it’s the first official appointment of 2006 and it opens a new and exciting season. We are happy with the work we’ve done during our winter tests, every session has been very positive and profitable, except maybe for our most recent Sepang test which was affected by rain. “The new GP6 is already as competitive as the GP5 was last year. I’m really pleased about this because we can only improve from what is already a good base. Catalunya will be very important because it will help us to understand the full extent of progress made by Bridgestone. I’ve got great confidence in Bridgestone and in the team and I’m ready to work hard, to close my visor and open the throttle!” Sete Gibernau, Ducati Marlboro Team rider “The team and I are working really well together, it’s a real pleasure to work with people who show such passion and commitment. “We have been chipping away at a few things, several aspects of the bike that we need to understand better. At the moment the whole ball game is making the bike more predictable and consistent, so we can have a machine that gives consistent performance at every track and throughout the whole race. I want to instil this mentality, so that Ducati can have a bike that can fight for podium at every race, not just in some races. In this respect Catalunya is going to be very important for us, just like every test session.”

European Motorcycle Accessories To Sponsor 2006 AFM Formula Pacific Championship

European Motorcycle Accessories has come to agreement with AFM (American Federation of Motorcycles) to be the title sponsor of their premier road racing series the 2006 Formula Pacific Challenge. Along with the series prize money for finishes, 1st $375, 2nd $250, 3rd $185, 4th 125 and 5th $65, The 2006 Series Champion will receive a set of PVM 10Y forged magnesium race wheels valued at $2700. EMA and PVM will also provide a PVM Contingency program for the 600 Superbike, 750 Superbike, and Open Superbike classes, paying out $100 for first place, $70 for second place, and $30 for third place finishes. EMA will also be providing a random draw for three classes per race weekend. The winners of the random draw will have their choice of; $180 in R&G bike protection products, $170 three line brake line kit from Fren Tubo, or $130 in EMA dollars. Three different classes will be selected each weekend so that all classes except FP will have an opportunity to win by the seasons final race weekend. Total Value of all available prizes is over $20,000.00. EMA and PVM are looking forward to a great year with one of America’s most prestigious road racing organizations.

March 2006

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Battle Of The Lightweights: Suzuki SV650S Vs. Ninja 650R A Factory Racebike For Privateers: Buell Firebolt XB-RR One Man’s Dream: Eric Buell And The Firebolt XB-RR Press Intro: 2006 Triumph Daytona 675 Army Of Darkness Versus Success, 2005 Inside Shoei’s Japanese Helmet Factory The Debate Over Helmet Shells: Stiff Versus Soft Going Back To School Pirelli World Superbike Tires Making Gains Some Guy And His Old Bike: Pat Mooney Is More Power Better? Honda CBR1000RR Project Superbike, Part Four Life As A Honda CBR1000RR Privateer: Mark Ledesma Jeff Tigert Jack Pfeifer Inside MotoGP: Team WCM There’s A Restaurant I Know When Production Racing Ruled The Isle Of Man Press Intro: 2006 KTM Supermoto Racebikes Cribs: Ben And Eric Bostrom Round 2 WSMC At Willow Springs Letters To The Editor Inside Info 10 Years Ago Numbers Jamie Hacking: Hacker! MotoGP Notes Lidz: Jason DiSalvo MotoGP Trivia New Products Book Review: Suzuki GSX-R: A Legend Of Performance The Crash Page Racing School & Track Day Directory Road Racing & School Calendar Guide To Road Racing Organizations High-Performance Parts & Services Want Ads Advertisers Index And Directory Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of A Racer On The Front Cover: Chris Ulrich pilots the 2006 Triumph Daytona 675 at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia. (Inset, Upper Left) Niclas Danielsen does a flying-W at Oschersleben. Photo by Arne Meinke. (Inset, Upper Right) The Buell XB-RR factory racebike anybody can buy.

Repsol Lubricants To Continue As Title Sponsor Of AMA Superstock Class

REPSOL LUBRICANTS RETURNS TO AMA SUPERSTOCK PICKERINGTON, Ohio (March 1, 2006) AMA Pro Racing announced today that Repsol will return as sponsor of the AMA Repsol Lubricants Superstock Series. Repsol has been the Superstock class sponsor since 2004 making this their third consecutive season as an AMA Pro Racing sponsor. The new agreement includes a comprehensive marketing approach to fans of AMA racing and features an advertising presence in American Motorcyclist, direct marketing opportunities with AMA members and sponsorship activation opportunities for top Repsol dealers who wish to be more involved with AMA racing. The sponsorship also includes an on-site component enabling Repsol to expose its brand to the hundreds of thousands of fans attending AMA Superbike Championship events. Repsol Brand Manager for North America, Ignacio Belloni had the following to say about his company’s involvement with AMA Championship racing: “For more than 40 years Repsol has been committed to supporting racing on a global basis, and we have seen great results in the U.S. since we launched the Repsol lubricants product line with our AMA Superstock Series sponsorship in 2004. Our partnership with AMA Pro Racing has been a great experience so far and we look forward to continuing it into the future.” John C. Farris, Jr., Vice-President Commercial Development for AMA Pro Racing added, “It’s fantastic to have Repsol return as a major sponsor in the AMA Superbike Championship. The company has been great to work with and it is gratifying to see our growing AMA Superbike property be recognized by a global brand like Repsol as such an effective marketing platform.” The 2006 AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited is set to begin next week at the legendary Daytona International Speedway. For more information, visit www.amasuperbike.com. About Repsol YPF One of the world’s ten largest private oil companies, Repsol YPF is an integrated oil and gas company operating in over 30 countries. For the last 40 years, Repsol products have been tested under the most demanding conditions, from MotoGP to the Dakar Rally obtaining more than 35 world championship titles. Now in 2006, the Repsol MotoGP team will feature Nicky Hayden, 2005 Laguna Seca winner and Dani Pedrosa, two time 250cc world champion! For more information, visit www.motousa.repsolypf.com or contact [email protected] About AMA Pro Racing AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its properties include the Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series, the AMA Toyota Motocross Championship presented by FMF, the AMA Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited, the AMA Ford Quality Checked Flat Track Championship and the AMA Supermoto Championship. For more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit www.amaproracing.com.

New Sponsor For Pacific Track Time

Pacific Track Time To Be Supported by Catalyst Racing Composites Pacific Track Time, LLC, which holds premier trackday events at Thunderhill Raceway Park, Infineon Raceway, Buttonwillow Raceway, Mazda-Laguna Seca Raceway and Reno-Fernley Raceway, has announced it will be supported by Catalyst Racing Composites, a leader in high quality composite bodywork for road racing, drag racing, land speed racing and vintage motorcycles. Here at Pacific Track Time we’re very excited in welcoming Catalyst Racing Composites; quality, fitment and availability were essential to our riding staff, Mike and Bonni Verdugo of Catalyst Racing Composites have paved the way in providing outstanding products with unparalleled customer service. For additional information, go to: ~http://www.pacifictracktime.com~ ~http://www.catalystracingcomposites.com~

Rare Norton Racebikes Added To J. Wood & Company Auction In Daytona

More factory works road racers consigned to Daytona Auction March 10th J. Wood and Co has been consigned a 1950 Norton Manx that was sent to the Indian Sales team at Daytona. It is one of five bikes sent to the race in 1950. Indian placed first, second and fourth in the beach race. We also have another one of five works Norton Dominator twins that were sent to Daytona in 1964. This one is believed to have won the 100 mile race with Kenny Hayes aboard. Ronnie Rall placed 8th in the 200 mile race on Daytona’s high banks with one of the team bikes. Both of these machines have been restored and ridden with AHRMA. These bikes along with Cal Rayborn’s XRTT will give collectors a rare opportunity to purchase historic works race bikes. The bikes can be seen at the event in DeLand March 8th and 9th and will be sold at the auction starting at 1PM on Friday March 10th. For more information and photos, visit www.jwoodandcompany.com

Change Of Ownership At Ducati Moving Forward

Ducati and UBM sign preliminary contract to establish syndicate of stand-by underwriters for proposed capital increase. Bologna, March 1st, 2006 – Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. (NYSE: DMH and Borsa Italiana S.p.A: DMH), expressed satisfaction at the signing of the definitive contract between Texas Pacific Group and InvestIndustrial Holding S.A. for the transfer of 30% less one share (not considering treasury shares which may be retained by the Company) at Euro 0.85 per share. The Company has also signed a preliminary contract with UniCredit Banca Mobiliare, to establish a syndicate of stand-by underwriters relating to the proposed capital increase for a maximum of Euro 80 million in ordinary shares to be offered by way of subscription rights. Ducati has also obtained a new credit line of Euro 35 million from UniCredit Banca d’Impresa, which is guaranteed for a period of 5 years, and negotiations are continuing with other banks for a further Euro 25 million financing. Following communication of the signing of the acquisition agreement, a Ducati Board of Directors meeting has been convened to deliberate on the postponement of the Ordinary Shareholders Meeting which was scheduled for March 20th, 2006 (first call) and March 22nd, 2006 (second call), to appoint the new Board of Directors, among other items. It is expected that the meeting will be held before mid-April in order to allow the new shareholder to complete the transition of the controlling stake in time to present its own list of Board candidates. Closing of the transaction is expected by the end of March. “We are very satisfied that the change of ownership is drawing to the desired close, thereby ensuring the company’s relaunch”, declared Federico Minoli, Ducati’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We would like to thank Ducati’s banks, and in particular UniCredit Group, for their continuing confidence in the company”, said Enrico D’Onofrio, Chief Financial Officer at Ducati. Founded in 1926, Ducati develops racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport; Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and Sport Classic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at ~http://www.ducati.com~ This press release contains statements that are forward-looking and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, as described in documents previously filed by the Company with CONSOB and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These materials are not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Any public offering of the company’s securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the company and that will contain detailed information about the company and its management, including financial statements.

Lorenzo Tops First Day Of 250cc GP Testing At Catalunya

FIM 250cc GP World Championship Test Times From Catalunya: 1. Jorge LORENZO, Aprilia, 1:47.622 2. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 1:47.949 3. Hector BARBERA, Aprilia, 1:48.082 4. Jakub SMRZ, Aprilia, 1:48.317 5. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 1:48.374 6. Sebastian PORTO, Honda, 1:49.032 7. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 1:49.082 8. Yuki TAKAHASHI, Honda, 1:49.378 9. Marco SIMONCELLI, Gilera, 1:49.456 10. Arturo TIZON, Honda, 1:49.476 11. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 1:49.590 12. Martin CARDENAS, Honda, 1:49.620 13. Shuhei AOYAMA, Honda, 1:49.904 14. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 1:50.589 15. Dirk HEIDOLF, Aprilia, 1:50.651 16. Taro SEKIGUCHI, Aprilia, 1:50.715 17. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 1:51.146 18. Hiroshi AOYAMA, KTM, 1:51.211 19. Manuel POGGIALI, KTM, 1:51.471 20. Michele DANESE, Aprilia, 1:51.748 21. Jules CLUZEL, Aprilia, 1:52.169 22. Chaz DAVIES, Aprilia, 1:52.234 23. Arnaud VINCENT, Honda, 1:53.053 24. Jordi CARCHANO, Honda, 1:53.445 25. Alessio PALUMBO, Aprilia, 1:55.806 26. Luca MORELLI, Aprilia, 1:56.633 27. Julian MIRALLES, Aprilia, 1:57.658

KTM’s Kallio Fastest On Day Two Of 125cc GP Test At Catalunya

FIM 125cc GP World Championship Test Times: 1. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:50.849 2. Lukas PESEK, Derbi, 1:51.158 3. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 1:51.356 4. Sergio GADEA, Aprilia, 1:51.365 5. Angel RODRIGUEZ, Aprilia, 1:51.382 6. Simone CORSI, Gilera, 1:51.495 7. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:51.499 8. Mattia PASINI, Aprilia, 1:51.692 9. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 1:51.743 10. Thomas LUTHI, Honda, 1:51.821 11. Gabor TALMACSI, Honda, 1:51.928 12. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 1:51.932 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Aprilia, 1:52.009 14. Joan OLIVE, Aprilia, 1:52.047 15. Aleix ESPARGARO, Honda, 1:52.192 16. Sandro CORTESE, Honda, 1:52.321 17. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Malaguti, 1:52.405 18. Fabrizio LAI, Honda, 1:52.506 19. Michele PIRRO, Aprilia, 1:52.616 20. Andrea IANNONE, Aprilia, 1:52.617

Kagayama Looking For Better Luck At Phillip Island World Superbike Event

World Superbike Champion Troy Corser and Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra team mates Yukio Kagayama and Fabien Foret head to Australia this weekend on a mission to win. Australian Corser, who currently lies second in the series, will be on home ground and at one of his favourite circuits for the second round of the World Superbike Championship at Phillip Island as Kagayama and Foret hope to put the disappointment of the opening Qatar round last weekend behind them. Phillip Island is a circuit that is always regarded high up in the top five by riders and always produces spectacular racing and the opening round showed that this year’s series is going to be something special: Both Corser and fellow countryman Troy Bayliss, who leads the series, will want to make their mark on home soil, but there is no shortage of other riders waiting to make their mark – especially Kagayama who was cruelly robbed of victory in Qatar. Also fighting Corser and Bayliss will be fellow Aussies Karl Muggeridge (Honda) and Andrew Pitt (Yamaha) plus Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha), James Toseland (Honda) and Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati). Troy Corser: “Phillip Island is a real racers circuit and a blast to ride. If you know what you are doing, you can really enjoy yourself. And, if your bike works good there, you can normally use it as a base set-up elsewhere. It’s something special winning there and that’s what I’ll be chasing again this year.” Yukio Kagayama: “The first round this year was a bit disappointing because I didn’t finish a race! My friend Nori Haga took me out when I was in the lead in the first race with just one lap to go and that was the end of that. In the second race my bike had electronic problems which got worse with every lap and I had to retire. Last year in Qatar I won a race, but this year fortune did not smile on me so I aim to make up for it in Phillip Island.” Fabien Foret: “The first round in Qatar was a disappointment for me because I had actually gone well in the limited dry track time I had. In both races the bike suffered some problems which weren’t my fault. But this bike is just at the start of its development life. It was encouraging to be almost competitive straight out of the box and, if we can get the work done and do some testing, it will be a very good package. I didn’t score any points in the first round, so now my priority is to get some good results in Phillip Island.”

Marlboro Ducati Previews The Upcoming MotoGP Test At Catalunya

BIG TEAMS GATHER IN SPAIN FOR MotoGP HORS D’OEUVRE The Catalunya Official MotoGP test session of March 3/4/5 is the first official engagement of the 2006 MotoGP World Championship, designed as a tantalising hors d’oeuvre to what is arguably the most keenly awaited season in bike racing history. The event unites all the 2006 MotoGP teams for the first time in Europe and will offer a fascinating insight into which riders will be racing up front at the season-opening Spanish GP on March 26. Like most other MotoGP outfits, the Ducati Marlboro Team has been busy in recent weeks attending private tests in Malaysia and Australia where Loris Capirossi and new-signing Sete Gibernau have topped the times on several occasions. Their impressive pace takes them to Catalunya in optimistic mood. The Desmosedici GP6 is an evolution of last year’s superb GP5 which won two MotoGP races. The bike has undergone a multitude of detail upgrades to improve all-round performance. The engine produces more power in a more controlled manner and uses less fuel, thanks to painstaking work on engine management and internal friction. The bike is also lighter and stiffer, following refinements to the frame, wheel rims and front forks, and also benefits from the impressive progress made by Bridgestone tyres. All in all, the GP6 is a more rider-friendly package, designed to give Capirossi and Gibernau competitive performance throughout the 17-race World Championship. Livio Suppo, Ducati MotoGP project leader “Catalunya is a big weekend for everyone, with an atmosphere similar to a real race! After many tests in faraway countries it’s nice to be back in Europe. And it’s great that most of our tests have gone well for us, apart from our last visit to Sepang which was spoiled by rain and Sete’s sickness. I’m very happy with the atmosphere within the team. Loris and Sete know each other well and are working together very effectively, which is so important at this stage of the season. The same goes for our people at the factory and also at Bridgestone – everyone is showing their usual commitment to development. In particular I would like to thank one of our most important technical partners, Shell Advance. We recently signed a three-year renewal of our partnership, because their knowledge and support is one of the key points in our success.” Loris Capirossi, Ducati Marlboro Team rider “I’m really looking forward to the Catalunya tests because it’s the first official appointment of 2006 and it opens a new and exciting season. We are happy with the work we’ve done during our winter tests, every session has been very positive and profitable, except maybe for our most recent Sepang test which was affected by rain. “The new GP6 is already as competitive as the GP5 was last year. I’m really pleased about this because we can only improve from what is already a good base. Catalunya will be very important because it will help us to understand the full extent of progress made by Bridgestone. I’ve got great confidence in Bridgestone and in the team and I’m ready to work hard, to close my visor and open the throttle!” Sete Gibernau, Ducati Marlboro Team rider “The team and I are working really well together, it’s a real pleasure to work with people who show such passion and commitment. “We have been chipping away at a few things, several aspects of the bike that we need to understand better. At the moment the whole ball game is making the bike more predictable and consistent, so we can have a machine that gives consistent performance at every track and throughout the whole race. I want to instil this mentality, so that Ducati can have a bike that can fight for podium at every race, not just in some races. In this respect Catalunya is going to be very important for us, just like every test session.”

European Motorcycle Accessories To Sponsor 2006 AFM Formula Pacific Championship

European Motorcycle Accessories has come to agreement with AFM (American Federation of Motorcycles) to be the title sponsor of their premier road racing series the 2006 Formula Pacific Challenge. Along with the series prize money for finishes, 1st $375, 2nd $250, 3rd $185, 4th 125 and 5th $65, The 2006 Series Champion will receive a set of PVM 10Y forged magnesium race wheels valued at $2700. EMA and PVM will also provide a PVM Contingency program for the 600 Superbike, 750 Superbike, and Open Superbike classes, paying out $100 for first place, $70 for second place, and $30 for third place finishes. EMA will also be providing a random draw for three classes per race weekend. The winners of the random draw will have their choice of; $180 in R&G bike protection products, $170 three line brake line kit from Fren Tubo, or $130 in EMA dollars. Three different classes will be selected each weekend so that all classes except FP will have an opportunity to win by the seasons final race weekend. Total Value of all available prizes is over $20,000.00. EMA and PVM are looking forward to a great year with one of America’s most prestigious road racing organizations.

March 2006

Battle Of The Lightweights: Suzuki SV650S Vs. Ninja 650R A Factory Racebike For Privateers: Buell Firebolt XB-RR One Man’s Dream: Eric Buell And The Firebolt XB-RR Press Intro: 2006 Triumph Daytona 675 Army Of Darkness Versus Success, 2005 Inside Shoei’s Japanese Helmet Factory The Debate Over Helmet Shells: Stiff Versus Soft Going Back To School Pirelli World Superbike Tires Making Gains Some Guy And His Old Bike: Pat Mooney Is More Power Better? Honda CBR1000RR Project Superbike, Part Four Life As A Honda CBR1000RR Privateer: Mark Ledesma Jeff Tigert Jack Pfeifer Inside MotoGP: Team WCM There’s A Restaurant I Know When Production Racing Ruled The Isle Of Man Press Intro: 2006 KTM Supermoto Racebikes Cribs: Ben And Eric Bostrom Round 2 WSMC At Willow Springs Letters To The Editor Inside Info 10 Years Ago Numbers Jamie Hacking: Hacker! MotoGP Notes Lidz: Jason DiSalvo MotoGP Trivia New Products Book Review: Suzuki GSX-R: A Legend Of Performance The Crash Page Racing School & Track Day Directory Road Racing & School Calendar Guide To Road Racing Organizations High-Performance Parts & Services Want Ads Advertisers Index And Directory Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of A Racer On The Front Cover: Chris Ulrich pilots the 2006 Triumph Daytona 675 at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia. (Inset, Upper Left) Niclas Danielsen does a flying-W at Oschersleben. Photo by Arne Meinke. (Inset, Upper Right) The Buell XB-RR factory racebike anybody can buy.