From a press release issued by Telefonica Movistar Honda:

POSITIVE DAY OF TESTING FOR THE TELEFONICA MOVISTAR HONDA TEAM

Record of laps for Marco Melandri on his third day of testing: 122 laps in total, 1:30.90 his best time.

Phillip Island, 19th February 2005

Third and last day of testing for the Telefonica MoviStar Honda Team on the technical and demanding track of Phillip Island. While Sete Gibernau was on his way home, after having completed with success the programme of work scheduled for this Australian test, his team mate, Marco Melandri, worked hard today completing 122 laps.

Together with his team, Marco worked on the set up of the bike and made several tyre testing. When he found the best setting he started his long run, 27 consecutive laps equal to the race distance of 120,096 kms.


MARCO MELANDRI – 1:30.90 , 122 laps:
“Iit was a hard and long day of testing but I’m quite satisfied because I needed to recover mentally from the two crashes I had in the previous days. Together with the team, we worked this morning on the set up of the bike and tyre testing before starting a long run. The long run was quite good because I ran consistently on a pace of 1:31.4 which is faster than the pace I had during the last GP here in October. I made my best lap time at the 20th lap of the race simulation, this proves that I’m quite consistent. I still need to improve my time on the single lap. For the moment I want to concentrate on the race pace but from Irta test in Barcelona I will start working on the single lap. For the race, in fact, it’s important to take the start from the first rows. Now I have almost 10 days of holidays before next text session in Qatar, where I’d like to arrive more focused on myself and the work I have to carry out.”

The Telefonica Movistar Honda Team will be back to work at the beginning of March in Qatar for next pre-season text session that will take place at Losail circuit on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of March.


UNOFFICIAL LAP TIMES
1. Valentino Rossi 1:29.68
2. Nicky Hayden 1:29.78
3. Carlos Checa 1:29.86
4. Max Biaggi 1:29.88
5. Loris Capirossi 1:30.18
6. Colin Edwards 1:30.23
7. Alex Barros 1:30.55
8. Marco Melandri 1:30.90
9. Troy Baylis 1:30.90
10. Rubens Xaus 1:31.98
11. Elias 1:32.96

Guida pista Phillip island
Best Pole Position : Rossi (Honda -2003) 1:30.068
Official record of the track: Loris Capirossi (Ducati – 2004) 1:31.102



More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

Testing concludes in Australia: next on the agenda for Camel Honda is the Qatar test from 1st to 3rd March and the team presentation in Milan on 16th March.

Three days of tests in Malaysia followed by another three in Australia – a journey of ten days in total – came to an end in the final session today, with one last big effort from the team and riders. The Camel Honda team have worked hard every day and made the most of all the available track time as they look to find a base set-up for the RC211V 2005. Alex Barros was consistently amongst the top riders at the Malaysian test, working on the set-up of the electronics and tyres tests with optimum results. In Australia he has continued to work closely with the Michelin technicians with excellent feedback whilst a front fork test, which was the main focus of his work today, has left certain room for improvement. Troy Bayliss, who has to adapt not only to new technical staff in 2005 but also to a completely different bike to anything he has ridden up to now, has worked relentlessly to try and find a better feeling with the bike. Next on the agenda for Camel Honda is the Qatar test from 1st to 3rd March and the team presentation in Milan on 16th March.

Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Alex Barros’ Chief Engineer)
“We were expecting a little bit more today from the tests we carried out on the front forks, which are specially designed for this circuit. However, there is still work to do. We’ve found a few good things related to the electronic settings and other things that we can discard. But that is exactly what tests are for and we’re still not even close to the start of the season. At the next tests in Qatar, where the track is dirty and slippery, it will be an ideal chance to work on the electronics of the bike.”

Alex Barros – Camel Honda – 1:30.55 (82 laps) 7th fastest
“We worked a lot on the new forks today but we honestly haven’t had the results we were hoping for. I’m losing half a second because of it because the rest of the bike is fine. There are two positive things to take out of it though – firstly that the race here in Australia is not until October, so we have plenty of time to make progress with the forks, and secondly I am really happy with the work we have done here and in Malaysia with Michelin. They are preparing very well for the new season and when we put all the data they have gathered from tests on the compound and construction into practice, I think the results will be excellent. We’ll be able to verify that in Qatar, although it is not the best circuit because we don’t have many references there, and definitely at the Irta tests in Spain”.

Santiago Mulero – Camel Honda (Troy Bayliss’ Chief Engineer)
“We’re still working hard. Today was more or less the same as yesterday in terms of lap times but the important thing is that Troy is lapping consistently with a good pace. In Malaysia we didn’t make much progress but here we have, so I think we should continue like this, making gradual progress with every lap without confusing matters.

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda – 1:30.98 (85 laps) 10th fastest
“I did the same time on race tyres today as I did yesterday, which is more or less the same as I did at the GP here last October on qualifiers (1:30.87). We’re still not up there with the fast guys but we’re not far off. We’ve worked a lot over these few days and we will continue to do so at the next tests in Qatar. I can’t wait to get there actually – not because I like the track particularly but I just want to improve. In any case I’m leaving here lot happier than Malaysia.”

Unofficial lap times
1. Rossi (Yamaha) 1:29.68 ; 2. Hayden (Honda) 1:29.69; 3 Checa (Ducati) 1:29.86; 4. Biaggi (Honda) 1:29.88; 5. Capirossi (Ducati) 1:30.18; 6. Edwards (Yamaha) 1:30.23; 7. Barros (Camel Honda) 1:30.55; 8. Hopkins (Suzuki) 1:30.85; 9. Melandri (Honda) 1:30.90; 10. Bayliss (Camel Honda) 1:30.98; Roberts (Suzuki) 1:31.21; Xaus (Yamaha)1:31.98; Elias (Yamaha) 1:32.96


More, from a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

Ambient temperature: 25 degrees
Track temperature: 30 degrees
Humidity: 45%

GAULOISES YAMAHA CONCLUDES ANTIPODEAN TESTING
The Gauloises Yamaha Team closed another stage in its demanding winter test programme today in Phillip Island, Australia, with Valentino Rossi taking the unofficial fastest lap time of the three days. In slightly cooler conditions than the previous two days, the Italian rider recorded a best time of 1:29.68, faster than his own circuit best time of 1:30.068 set during the 2003 Phillip Island round. Rossi’s new team-mate Colin Edwards also improved on his previous two days with an unofficial 1:30.23, quicker than his 2004 Australian Grand Prix official qualifying time of 1:30.625.

All riders present from the Yamaha, Honda, Ducati and Suzuki MotoGP teams, except Sete Gibernau, took advantage of the last opportunity to test at the Australian circuit before they will race there in October. Nearly all lapped under Loris Capirossi’s circuit lap record of 1:31.102, set last year.

Valentino Rossi (1:29.68, 57 laps)
“This morning we tried some different settings from yesterday and they worked better. We found more agility in the bike. Then we continued testing tyres for Michelin, which were good. The test has been quite positive and we have collected some useful information which we’ll continue to work with when we return here soon.”

Colin Edwards (1:30.60, 78 laps)
“Today was really encouraging, I got on with some really good tyres and played around a bit and the result and time was better. I didn’t do so many laps today but the ones I did were good. We checked out all the settings and we feel like we’ve made some progress. I’m heading back to the States now for a bit of family time before we come back here in a couple of weeks. I’m really excited about the news that we’re going to race in Turkey, Rio was always a cool place but it wasn’t one of my favourite tracks. It’s always fun to go to new tracks, and now we’ve got three new ones in a year, although Laguna isn’t so new for me.”

Davide Brivio, Gauloises Yamaha Team Director
“We finished the test at a good level, both riders have improved since the first day, and we’ve got some good information from the areas we needed to work in. It’s been a positive test for the riders and the bike. We look forward to coming back very soon to continue this development.”

The Gauloises Yamaha Team returns to the Phillip Island circuit for a three day test on 8 March.

Unofficial Lap Times:

1. VALENTINO ROSSI (Yamaha) 1:29.68 (57 laps)
2. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 1:29.78
3. Carlos Checa (Ducati) 1:29.86
4. Max Biaggi (Honda) 1:29.88
5. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 1:30.18
6. COLIN EDWARDS (Yamaha) 1:30.23 (52 laps)
7. Alex Barros (Honda) 1:30.55
8. John Hopkins (Suzuki) 1:30.86
9. Troy Bayliss (Honda) 1:30.90
10. Marco Melandri (Honda) 1:30.90
11. Kenny Roberts (Suzuki) 1:31.21
12. Ruben Xaus (Yamaha) 1:31.98
13. Toni Elias (Yamaha) 1:32.16


More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

MotoGP test Phillip Island – Australia. Final day of three-day test.
February 19, 2005.

HRC conclude successful Phillip Island MotoGP test session

The curtain came down on the three-day MotoGP test at Phillip Island, Australia today with the Honda tams and riders leaving for home in confident mood. Team technicians and HRC engineers back to base to analyse the data gathered from the three-day test the riders to recharge their batteries after six grueling day’s work over the last 10 days.

Three Honda RC211V riders broke the 1:30 barrier at Phillip Island Repsol Honda factory team rider the fastest of the over the three-day with his best time of today at 1:29.780. The American put the 2005 version of the 5-cylinder 990cc RCV through an extensive 106-laps at one stage running a race simulation distance which was 28-seconds faster than his race time at the GP held last October.

Hayden’s Repsol Honda teammate Max Biaggi worked even harder putting in 120-laps as he worked his way through a long programme of tyre testing for Michelin. At the end of the day Biaggi was close to exhaustion but pronounced himself happy with the results of the three-day test and the performance of his new technical crew.

Alex Barros (Camel Honda) spent his day testing the new front forks HRC brought to Phillip Island but at the end of the test had yet to find the optimum settings in combination with the range of front tyres he tried. Teammate Troy Bayliss left the track in more buoyant mood than following his three-day test at Sepang last week. The Australian, a former World Superbike Champion, has steadily improved on each of the three-days and his eager to et to the next MotoGP test, at the Losail circuit in Qatar on March 1-3, to continue the progress made at Phillip Island.

Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda:) had completed his test programme yesterday and took no part in the action today. His teammate, Italian Marco Melandri, did test and set impressive lap time his fastest of the day on his 20th lap of the session. Melandri is in his first season with the RC211V and has steadily improved his consistency to the point where he feels able to go for fast single laps times when the teams get to Losail next month.

Konica Minolta rider Makoto Tamada was another who sat out the day’s action. Tamada crashed heavily on Thursday and was sidelined with severe bruising to his left hand and left foot. The popular Japanese rider will be fit to test at Losail.


Honda rider lap times and quotes.

Nicky Hayden, Repsol Honda: 1:29.780 – 106 laps.
“Today was the best day of the test for me, I got a good, long run in and recognised a bit more where we need to improve, both myself and the machine. I felt good and we made some positive steps forward and the race time I did was 28 seconds faster than my race time last year so we’re pretty happy with that – but it’s still not enough. We’ll take away what we’ve learnt here and move on to Qatar. I tried both chassis options that we’ve got and we learned a lot about the differences but overall I just felt more consistent today and some of that’s down to me getting into a rut yesterday. We’re still a new team but the atmosphere’s good and we’re gelling really well.”


Max Biaggi, Repsol Honda: 1:29.880 – 120 laps
“I am tired today after so many laps but I wanted to give Michelin the information they needed from the tyres they asked me to test – but I was praying for the red light at the end of the pit lane to end the day’s testing! At times today it was a little difficult as there were some spots of rain, which did little for your confidence, especially in the fast sweep into turn one. Overall we have had a good test and confirmed our feeling and direction with the machine set-up following last week’s test in Sepang. We know the areas we need to improve on and we have three tests in March to achieve that.”


Makoto Tanaka, Repsol Honda Team Manager:
“Overall we’ve had three good days here at Phillip Island. Max probably did too many laps today but it was good that he tried the tyres for Michelin Nicky had a good day today and discovered some areas of set-up which improved his performance. We know we still have a lot of work to do and will continue to work hard towards improving the machine in the next tests in Qatar and Spain.”


Alex Barros, Camel Honda: 1:30.55 – 82 laps.
“We worked a lot on the new forks today but we honestly haven’t had the results we were hoping for. I’m losing half a second because of it because the rest of the bike is fine. There are two positive things to take out of it though – firstly that the race here in Australia is not until October, so we have plenty of time to make progress with the forks, and secondly I am really happy with the work we have done here and in Malaysia with Michelin. They are preparing very well for the new season and when we put all the data they have gathered from tests on the compound and construction into practice, I think the results will be excellent. We’ll be able to verify that in Qatar, although it is not the best circuit because we don’t have many references there, and definitely at the IRTA tests in Spain.”


Ramon Forcada, Camel Honda – Alex Barros’ Chief Engineer.
“We were expecting a little bit more today from the tests we carried out on the front forks, which are specially designed for this circuit. However, there is still work to do. We’ve found a few good things related to the electronic settings and other things that we can discard. But that is exactly what tests are for and we’re still not even close to the start of the season. At the next tests in Qatar, where the track is dirty and slippery, it will be an ideal chance to work on the electronics of the bike.”


Troy Bayliss, Camel Honda: 1:30.98 – 85 laps.
“I did the same time on race tyres today as I did yesterday, which is more or less the same as I did at the GP here last October on qualifiers (1:30.87). We’re still not up there with the fast guys but we’re not far off. We’ve worked a lot over these few days and we will continue to do so at the next tests in Qatar. I can’t wait to get there actually – not because I like the track particularly but I just want to improve. In any case I’m leaving here lot happier than Malaysia.”


Santiago Mulero, Camel Honda- Troy Bayliss’ Chief Engineer.
“We’re still working hard. Today was more or less the same as yesterday in terms of lap times but the important thing is that Troy is lapping consistently with a good pace. In Malaysia we didn’t make much progress but here we have, so I think we should continue like this, making gradual progress with every lap without confusing matters.”


Telefonica MoviStar Honda:

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: Completed his test on day two.

Makoto Tamada, Konica Minolta Honda: Did not test due to severe bruising sustained in a crash on the first day of the test.


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM CONCLUDES TESTING IN AUSTRALIA

Carlos Checa and Loris Capirossi again concentrated on tyre testing and race set-up at Phillip Island. The Ducati Marlboro Team back testing in Qatar from Tuesday March 1 onwards.

Phillip Island, 19 February 2005 – The Ducati Marlboro Team successfully concluded its Australian testing programme today at the Phillip Island circuit. In cloudy but mild conditions (22° air/29° track), Ducati engineers and riders continued development work on the Desmosedici GP5 with the new Bridgestone tyres. A few drops of rain fell at around midday, forcing the team to take a break, but the day’s testing schedule was unaffected.

Development work with the latest Bridgestone tyres is continuing and Carlos Checa and Loris Capirossi were able to use the Australian track for numerous tests with rear tyres, some new and others used previously, but all the while keeping the same set-up to concentrate exclusively on the different tyre reactions.

Spanish rider Carlos Checa was in particularly good form today, ending the test with a best time of 1:29.86 over 88 laps. Satisfied with the three-day testing session in Australia, Carlos tried to put in the maximum number of laps on the most promising rear tyres.

“I am really happy with this testing session, with my team and with my bike” declared Carlos. “We found a good base set-up for the Desmosedici and some very interesting indications on which to work in the future. Now it’s time for a short break and then we’ll be back to work in Qatar”.

Today Loris Capirossi focussed on suspension set-up but also on mapping work for the powerful Desmosedici engine and at the end of the day was pleased with the bike’s better ‘driveability’. Loris ended the Phillip Island session with a quickest time of 1:30.18 after completing 59 laps.

“I’m generally pretty pleased with my pace, which was quite good for several successive laps at around 1:30” said Capirossi. “We still have to do a bit more work over the longer distance, but I and my team are ready!”.

Satisfaction about the Australian tests was also expressed by Ducati Marlboro Team technical director Corrado Cecchinelli, who commented:
“Even though we lost a bit of time today due to a few drops of rain, we are very pleased with the way the test went: we did many consecutive laps in race set-up and gained a lot of information on how to evolve both the suspension set-up of the bike and the rear tyres. Even though we know that the weather conditions for the race will be a bit different, we gathered a lot of information which will be useful next October.”

The next tests for the Ducati Marlboro Team will be as follows:
March 1-3 at Doha (Qatar)
March 18-20 at the IRTA Tests, Catalunya (Spain)
March 25-27 at the IRTA Tests, Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONCLUDE THREE DAYS OF TESTS IN AUSTRALIA

The Fortuna Yamaha today concluded three days of tests at the Phillip Island circuit. For team riders Rubén Xaus and Toni Elías it was the end of two planned sessions at the Australian track.
Fortuna Yamaha rider Rubén Xaus completed 91 laps aboard his YZR M1. The Spanish rider, still suffering slightly from the effects of injury, was satisfied with the progress he is making. His team-mate Toni Elías was exhausted at the end of another day of hard work. The Spanish youngster tested different set-up configurations and tyre
combinations as he looks to analyse the reactions of his Yamaha YZR-M1. Elías also leaves the test in satisfied mood, after completing an intense programme alongside the team’s engineers and mechanics. The best time of the day was set by Gauloises Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi. The
Italian completed 57 laps of the circuit with a fastest lap of 1:29.68. Nicky Hayden (Honda, 1:29.78) and Carlos Checa (Ducati, 1:29.86) were second and third fastest respectively. The MotoGP teams will be back at Phillip Island in two weeks’ time.

Rubén Xaus, (1:31.98, 91 laps)

“We haven’t improved the lap time from yesterday but that’s not the main objective at the moment. We’re still getting to know the bike and I think it’s important not to rush that and to work consistently on it. It was a day of very hard work but it served to keep us on a progressive upward curve. I think we deserve a few days off but, honestly, I already want to get back on the bike!”

Toni Elías (1:32.96, 67 laps)

“We’ve had six days of tests more or less one after the other now and that’s starting to take its toll on every level. I’ve got to improve a lot because I’m still a long way off the times being set by the top riders but I think that’s normal given the circumstances and we just have to keep working. Everybody is giving me constant support and that is important for me to keep making progress. We’ve worked really well over the last few days and I’m satisfied even though I’m looking forward to a rest before coming back here to Australia. The whole team’s doing a great job.”


More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

Encouraging Australian test for Team SUZUKI MotoGP

Team SUZUKI MotoGP completed its pre-season test at Phillip Island in Australia today with encouraging results.

Kenny Roberts Jr and John Hopkins had a busy three-day schedule, with emphasis placed on the latest engine control systems and an extensive Bridgestone tyre test. Many new updates are now expected for the all-important Official MotoGP Tests in March, following on from the lessons learnt in Malaysia and now Australia.

Both riders tested numerous new Bridgestone race compound and new construction tyres throughout the test. This allowed technicians and riders to analyse and compare vital data to improve all aspects of handling and control of the GSV-R over race distance.

Hopkins was especially pleased with the tyre test. He said: “Bridgestone have done a great job this week, they’ve made a race compound tyre that I’m really happy with – definitely the best I’ve ever used – so this is a really positive move for me and another step in the right direction.”

Roberts Jr was also happy with the progress made on all fronts, particularly on the engine control systems. He left the test looking forward to the next steps from Suzuki which will take the GSV-R’s increasingly competitive potential to the next level. Having missed the 2004 Australian GP through injury, this was also a good chance to re-familiarise himself with the challenging Phillip Island circuit.

Operations Manager Howard Plumpton said: “This has been another constructive test for Team SUZUKI MotoGP. We have again made more improvements to the GSV-R and are leaving Phillip Island with lots of valuable data. This test was not about lap times but progressing with the development of the bike. Even so, high 1:30 lap times are a big step forward from our 2004 pace and are a lot closer to the front runners. It is clear we still have to improve but everybody is pushing hard to achieve those improvements. The support from Bridgestone has again been excellent and I know they are working very hard on making the right tyres for the GSV-R- this has been emphasised by John’s upbeat reaction to the new compounds.”

Team SUZUKI MotoGP now travels to Spain for the first Official MotoGP Test at Barcelona on March 18th-20th, in preparation for the new MotoGP World Championship season beginning at Jerez in Spain on April 10th.

From a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki:

RIZLA SUZUKI British Superbike Champion John Reynolds broke his right leg during testing at Valencia in Spain today while his team mate Scott Smart made a successful debut on the GSX-R1000K5.

JR was nearing the end of his first day of testing on the all-new GSX-R1000K5 when he slid off at turn six of the 4.005km long Valencia circuit. He has broken the Tibia and Fibula in his right leg. He was transferred to Valencia General Hospital where he is now receiving treatment.

New team racer Smart enjoyed his first day riding for Rizla Suzuki and is looking forward to continuing with the final day of the test tomorrow.

Scott Smart:
“We spent most of my first day with Rizla Suzuki getting the GSX-R1000 to fit me. It is a tiny bike and was set up for a smaller rider, so we moved the handlebars, seat and footpegs quite a bit and I am much more comfortable now.

“We made some significant changes to the suspension this afternoon and by the time we had that sorted I was pretty tired and we decided to call it a day. It means I have a bike with a good base setting that I am looking forward to riding tomorrow.

“I am gutted for JR breaking his leg. I know the team are sorting out the best medical care possible for him and I wish him a very speedy recovery.”

Robert Wicks, team manager:
“We are marshalling every resource we have to make sure JR makes as quick a recovery as possible. Right now we are consulting with the hospital doctors and viewing X-rays to determine the best treatment for him.

“Scott had a very productive day and we have sent him to bed early – as our only rider on track tomorrow, he’s going to have his work cut out getting through everything that needs to be tested. The whole Rizla Suzuki squad has dug deep today through some difficult circumstances and I am proud of every single person.”

From a press release:

Team Sheriff Racing “Beat The Heat” Track Days

Team Sheriff Racing announced today that they will be expanding their “Beat The Heat” Street-Legal Racing program with the addition of track days at local area racetracks designed to introduce young riders to the track environment, while also educating them about the dangers of illegal street and ‘canyon’ racing.

“All of us on the team are really excited about the expansion of the program; we’ve been hard at work to make this happen,” said Deputy Michael Churney, Director of Team Sheriff Racing’s Motorcycle Division. “Due to the success of our ‘Beat The Heat’ program at local drag racing tracks, we decided that along with the creation of our Motorcycle Division, we needed to expand the program to educate the younger riders that are street racing or racing in the canyons, but have never been to the track.”

American Honda, Pro Honda Oils and Chemicals, Lockhart Phillips USA, Chatterbox USA, Buttonwillow Raceway Park, Motorcycle Training Center (MTC Track Day), The Track Club (formerly Club Desmo), Take It 2 The Track, and Fastrack Riders will be sponsoring the events, which will be held at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, Willow Springs International Raceway, and California Speedway.

“The motorcycle industry has really shown their commitment to the safety of the youth in our communities by making these events possible with their sponsorship. Thanks to the sponsors, we will be able to offer these events at a substantially reduced cost,” said Churney. “These events won’t be track schools, or cornering schools. They’re basically regular track days designed to provide an opportunity for riders that have never been on the track to come out to a track day for the first time, and introduce them to the track environment, while making it as easy and fun as possible. Part of our program also includes educating the riders about why the track is the place to push the limits of their machines and educating them about the dangers of doing it on the street. To help us with this, we will have the instructors from the track day organizers on the track as well as expert-level club racers (who are also certified MSF Instructors) on the track with them as well. And to top it off, there are a few AMA racers that have pledged their support as well. Jason Curtis (No Limit Motorsports), Jeff Tigert (TigerTeam Racing), and Nicky Moore (Moore Power Racing) have agreed to come out and participate, both on and off the track.”

Representatives from some of the sponsors will also be on hand to help riders, and answer questions on anything from riding gear to suspension setup.

The first Team Sheriff Racing “Beat The Heat” track day will be held in the Spring of this year. A schedule of the events (with locations, times, and costs) will be released in the immediate future.

For more information, contact Team Sheriff Racing at 818-883-2500 or visit their website at www.sheriffsracing.com.

From a press release issued by FIM:

FIM announcement. Changes to the 2005 MotoGP calendar

Following the lack of a signed contract, the Rio Grand Prix is cancelled. The Portuguese Grand Prix will be moved to April 17. The Turkish Grand Prix will take place on the new circuit of Istanbul on October 23. The calendar is the following:

Grand Prix Circuit
4-10 Spain Jerez
4-17 Portugal Estoril
5-1 China Shanghai
5-15 France Le Mans
6-5 Italy Mugello
6-12 Catalunya Catalunya
6-25 Netherlands ** Assen
7-10 United States * Laguna Seca
7-24 Great Britain Donington Park
7-31 Germany Sachsenring
8-28 Czech Republic Brno
9-18 Japan Motegi
9-25 Malaysia Sepang
10-1 Qatar ** Doha
10-16 Australia Phillip Island
10-23 Turkey *** Istambul
11-6 Valencia Valencia

*: Only MotoGP class
**: Saturday
***: Subject to contract

From a press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.:

Team Yamaha Quickest in Pre-Daytona Test


Factory Yamaha Superstock and Supersport racebikes led the way at Laguna Seca on February 15-16 during the last official track test before Daytona Bike Week. The Factory Yamaha Team and Graves Motorsports, along with several competitors, shared time at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif. in order to dial in suspension, engine tuning and tire combinations. Aboard the YZF-R1 prepared by Graves Motorsports, factory rider Damon Buckmaster unofficially set the pace for Superstock bikes. Buckmaster was also unofficially quickest aboard the YZF-R6 Supersport machine once the Yamaha crew set up the suspension to his liking.

New R6 Makes a Great Racer

This year the 2005 R6’s improved power and new inverted fork will pay dividends to all four team riders including Buckmaster, Jason DiSalvo, Aaron Gobert and Jamie Hacking. So will its new radially mounted front calipers, which offer higher braking consistency, less drag and more even pad wear.

“The R6 is so good in stock form that it makes our job easier to dial it in,” said Team Manager Tom Halverson. “The stock geometry, frame and swingarm are good enough right out of the box for a professional rider to win championships on. It’s mostly a matter of dialing in the suspension to the track and to the rider’s individual style.”

Meanwhile the R1 has already benefited from a solid year of development, so the Graves Motorsports crew focused on testing tires, fine-tuning the fuel-injection mapping, and validating improvements made in the second half of 2004.

“The R1 is really pretty dialed in because of its year of development, and they already had a good setup from Laguna last year,” Halverson added.

Tracking What We Learn

During testing, both the R1 and R6 use onboard data-logging systems that allow engine and suspension information to be recorded, then downloaded onto laptop computers after every session. Yamaha records and uses two different kinds of data – analog and digital – to interpret how key motorcycle systems are working around the track. Examples of analog data include throttle position, engine air-to-fuel ratio, front and rear suspension movement, and brake pressure. Recorded digital information includes engine rpm, front and rear wheel speed, and lap times.

New Commercial to Debut

An interesting footnote to the testing was a new Yamaha television commercial that a crew was working on at the track. Rainy weather on the first day of the test allowed downtime for shooting some pit scenes focusing on 2004 AMA Superstock champion Aaron Gobert and his YZF-R1.

After regrouping in Cypress, Calif. this week, the Yamaha transporters will leave for Daytona right after Presidents Day. Stay tuned for an exciting Bike Week on March 9-12 and best of luck to the four factory riders and their crews – and of course to the R1 and new R6!


Editorial Note: The factory Yamaha transporter was seen at Willow Springs International Raceway February 18, but no riders or team members, other than the truck driver, were present.

From a press release issued by Camel Honda:

Camel Honda team continue working at Phillip Island

Temperatures of 26ºC and low winds at Phillip Island today gave the Camel Honda team riders the opportunity to complete a major part of their preseason testing programme. Troy Bayliss was in calm, concentrated and determined mood as he continued to improve his relationship with the RC211V step by step. At Phillip Island, a track which he likes and which today welcomed a large section of his fans, Troy is working on a base setting which will allow him to approach the season in the best possible way. Alex Barros today did a lot of work on the front fork settings and, although his rhythm on used tyres is improving, he is still not completely satisfied with the front end performance of his bike. The team are already preparing a different fork for him to try tomorrow. Alex also reacted to the breaking news that the Brazilian GP, his home race, has been cancelled.

Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Alex Barros’ Chief Engineer)
“Today we tried every setting possible with the front fork but given that we haven’t taken many steps forward with it we are already preparing a new one for Alex to try tomorrow. This track is different to Sepang, there are no heavy braking areas, so we have to prepare a special fork which adapts to Phillip Island and other circuits with flowing corners like this. It’s good that we have the chance to work like this now because we will be ready when we come up against a similar situation at a Grand Prix, when you don’t have much time”.

Alex Barros – Camel Honda – 1:30.68 (93 laps) 8th fastest
“This morning we worked on the electronics and we were able to improve the odd thing. Since then we’ve been working on improving grip on the front end but we’re not succeeding at the moment, even after trying a lot of things with the forks and the geometry of the bike. The rear of the bike is fine but at the moment the front is preventing me from being as efficient as I could be. I’m having to lean too far over to take the corner and that means I’m not getting the most out of the tyre. Obviously we’ll keep working on that tomorrow. As far as the cancellation of the Rio GP is concerned, obviously I’m disappointed. It is the second time this has happened (the first was in 1998) but this is even more disappointing because it was probably going to be the last Grand Prix at this track. The city prefecture is actually planning to demolish part of the track and reduce the overall length to 3,100 metres. That means it would only have been used for national races”.

Santiago Mulero – Camel Honda (Troy Bayliss’ Chief Engineer)
“Troy is getting the measure of the RC211V. We’ve still got work to do, there’s no doubt about that, but we are all much more satisfied at the end of today. We have worked well with the tyres and we have found a setting for the cycle part of the bike that he likes quite a lot. Tomorrow we’ll keep working on it and we’ll also try some new settings in the electronics.”

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda – 1:30.96 (75 laps) 10th fastest
“Better… things are starting to get better. I’m still not perfectly comfortable on the bike but we’re getting there. The whole team, myself included, are working really hard and even though we’re not satisfied with the lap times we can see that we’re making progress and that gives me confidence for tomorrow and the next tests. We’re working hard with the guys from Michelin, the tyres are perfect and together with the set-up of the bike, which we are defining bit by bit, we’re able to make progress in the right direction. We have to keep going like this.

Unofficial lap times
1. Gibernau (Honda) 1:29.85; 2. Checa (Ducati) 1:29.94; Biaggi (Honda) 1:29.97; 4. Rossi (Yamaha) 1:30.23; 5. Hayden (Honda) 1:30.44; 6. Capirossi (Ducati) 1:30.51; 7. Edwards (Yamaha) 1:30.57; 8. Barros (Camel Honda) 1:30.68; 9. Melandri (Honda) 1:30.95; 10. Bayliss (Honda) 1:30.96; 11. Roberts (Suzuki) 1:30.98; 12. Xaus (Ducati) 1:31.49; 13. Hopkins (Suzuki) 1:31.65; 14. Elias (Ducati) 1:32.87


More, from a press release issued by Telefoncia Movistar Honda:

SETE GIBERNAU CONFIRMS HIS LEADERSHIP

The Spaniard is the fastest and more consistent rider at Phillip Island.

Phillip Island, Australia, test day 2

Second day of test at Phillip Island, Australia, for the Telefonica MoviStar Honda MotoGP team.
The runner up Sete Gibernau worked today on the set up of the bike, running consistently since the beginning of the test session. During the afternoon he made a long run, improving both in lap time and consistency.

Not a very good day for his team mate, Marco Melandri, who spoiled a positive day of testing with a small crash, without consequences, at turn 6.


SETE GIBERNAU – 1:29.865, 81 laps:
“In Sepang we were not in the perfect conditions for a long run but there was not enough time to test. Here we worked on the set up of the bike, chassis and tyres and found the best combination of what we have. I lapped fast since this morning and the long run was quite good as I was lapping consistently in low 1:30.0. There are still some areas that can be improved but I’m happy because I have clear ideas and we are working in the right direction. The team is doing a great job and HRC and Michelin are helping us a lot.”


MARCO MELANDRI – 1:30.95 – 71 laps:
“It was not a good day, I’m sorry because I was doing well but the crash of this afternoon has spoiled today’s test session.

This morning we made some changes in the front of the bike and I had a better feeling in fact I was lapping consistently on low 1:31. In the afternoon we were looking for a final confirmation of our changes and we went back to the setting of this morning. It was a mistake, the bike was more difficult to ride and I lost the front, crashing at Turn 6. It’s a pity because I lost two hours of testing. Tomorrow I want to ride more carefully, even if this means to run 8 tenths slower. If possible, I would like to do a long run in the afternoon.”


Sete Gibernau ends with great results this australian test session: “we have concentrated in two days the work scheduled for this test session, testing all the new items. I leave Australia satisfied and look forward to next test session in Qatar” says the Spanish rider. The test session goes on tomorrow with Marco Melandri and the other motogp riders.

UNOFFICIAL LAP TIME
1. Sete Gibernau 1:29.865
2. Carlos Checa 1:29.94
3. Max Biaggi 1:29.97
4. Valentino Rossi 1:30.22
5. Nicky Hayden 1:30.43
6. Loris Capirossi 1:30.53
7. Colin Edwards 1:30.60
8. Alex Barros 1:30.65
9. Marco Melandri 1:30.95
10. Troy Baylis 1:30.96
11. Rubens Xaus 1:31.59
12. Elias 1:32.72

Phillip island
Best Pole Position : Rossi (Honda -2003) 1:30.068
Official record della pista : Loris Capirossi (Ducati – 2004) 1:31.102


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

CHECA AND THE DESMOSEDICI GP5 SET CRACKING PACE AT PHILLIP ISLAND.

The Spanish rider laps under the 2004 pole time. Team-mate Loris Capirossi carries out back-to-back tests.

Phillip Island (Australia), 18 February 2005 – Cloudy weather but ideal temperatures (28° air/33° track) greeted the Ducati Marlboro Team riders at the Phillip Island circuit, where the pace of the third winter testing session is starting to heat up.

After his harmless crash yesterday, Carlos Checa set a cracking pace today, recording the second quickest time of the day in 1:29.94. Checa’s time was lower than the pole mark recorded a few months ago by Sete Gibernau, and it was set with a new profile rear race tyre. During his 80 laps today, Carlos also carried out suspension set-up work on his Desmosedici GP5; he also made several outings with the modified frame, receiving similar impressions to when he tested the traditional frame, and working on different front forks set-up.

“Today we again worked well and I’m really happy” said Checa. “This morning we carried out a lot of testing on the suspension set-up and in the afternoon I tested several different rear tyres, some of which gave really good results”.

Loris Capirossi carried out numerous back-to-back tests during his 74 laps of the track, the Italian’s best time being 1:30.53. Capirossi lapped with both GP5 bikes at his disposal, one with the same set-up used during the last tests at Sepang and the other in race configuration, with a set-up very similar to the one he used in last season’s Australian GP, but Loris preferred the former.

“The back-to-back tests between the two set-ups enabled me to understand a lot of things” commented Loris. “There isn’t much difference between the times and I’m not particularly worried about not being at the top of the timesheets at the moment”.

The Desmosedici GP5 development and the Bridgestone tyre tests are continuing positively, and despite it being the first time that the new pairing has tested on the ultra-fast and technical Phillip Island track, it is already bringing positive results for the engineers of the two companies.

The Ducati Marlboro Team will conclude testing at Phillip Island tomorrow Saturday 19 February, before moving to Doha in Qatar from March 1-3, the final session before the official IRTA testing sessions at Catalunya (March 18-20) and Jerez (March 25-27).


More, from a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

Ambient temperature: 26 degrees
Track temperature: 32 degrees
Humidity: 50%

GAULOISES YAMAHA MEN STEP UP THE PACE DOWN UNDER

Gauloises Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards continued with their pre-season testing programme in Phillip Island, Australia today, finishing the day fourth and seventh fastest respectively in the unofficial standings. The riders both completed a long run of the Victoria circuit, as well as continuing with yet more important tyre testing for Michelin and working on small set-up changes. Teams from Yamaha, Honda, Ducati and Suzuki were out on the track alongside the Yamaha Factory Team riders, although Japanese Honda rider Makoto Tamada was unable to test due to minor injuries sustained in a crash yesterday.

Rossi rode 91 laps over the course of the day, although he was the victim of an unfortunate incident when he hit a bird as he exited pit lane. Despite this, he consistently completed laps in the 1:30s and finished the day fourth fastest with a best time of 1:30.22 – equal to the qualifying time he set at last year’s Australian Grand Prix. His American team-mate Colin Edwards, who finished fourth at the race here last October, completed 78 laps with a best time of 1:30.60, just a fraction of a second faster than his final qualifying time for the same race. Three riders were faster than Rossi on the track today and completed laps under the 1:30 mark; Sete Gibernau (Honda, 1:29.85), Carlos Checa (Ducati, 1:29.94) and Max Biaggi (Honda, 1:29.97).

Valentino Rossi (1:30,22, 91 laps) “I hit a bird as I was exiting the pit lane today and it went into my airbox; it fell out half way round the track and when I returned to the pit garage there were just some feathers left. I’d just like to say that I’m very sorry for the bird! We did a lot more tyre work today and also a long run, which I was quite happy with. I did some fast laps and it was an improvement on the race last October. We still need to make some changes to the chassis setting, as there’s something not quite perfect at the moment; tomorrow we will concentrate on this. Some other riders have managed to be very fast today with laps under 1:30; I didn’t manage this, but maybe if we can make some small improvements tomorrow I might be able to. We will see! Many people are talking about the news that the Grand Prix in Rio has been cancelled this year, and I’m sorry not to be able to go back there because I didn’t finish the race there last year, and it would have been good to have ended it on a high note.”

Colin Edwards (1:30.60, 78 laps)
“We continued working on bike set-up and we’ve found some really good improvements and solutions to some of our problems. We’ll continue to check these tomorrow. I did a long run today and we also did more tyre testing; I think we’ve done a really good job with Michelin during these tests. Tomorrow we’ll work to complete what we’ve started and hopefully we’ll be able to leave on a positive note. I’m looking forward to a bit of a rest before the next test!”

Davide Brivio, Gauloises Yamaha Team Director
“Today the riders both did a long run and many laps throughout the day. We did a lot more work for Michelin, which is really important at the moment. Tomorrow we will conclude our activities for this test and we are pleased with what we’ve done so far. However it will be good to come back again in just over two weeks to continue our pre-season work.”

Unofficial Lap Times:

1. Sete Gibernau (Honda) 1:29.85
2. Carlos Checa (Ducati) 1:29.94
3. Max Biaggi (Honda) 1:29.97
4. VALENTINO ROSSI (YAMAHA) 1:30.22

7. COLIN EDWARDS (YAMAHA) 1:30.60


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONCLUDE SECOND DAY OF TESTS IN AUSTRALIA

The Fortuna Yamaha team today completed their second day of tests at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia. Team riders Rubén Xaus and Toni Elías continued to familiarise themselves with their Yamaha YZR M1 machines at one of the fastest circuits in the world.

Fortuna Yamaha rider Rubén Xaus, who today celebrates his 27th birthday, improved his times from yesterday over the course of the day whilst continuing to adapt to the bike. Xaus, who has almost fully recovered from his injuries, completed 67 laps of the Australian circuit.

His team-mate Toni Elías continued on the same line of development, concentrating on aspects related to the chassis and suspension. The Spanish youngster, who is still being troubled by pain from his little finger having broken it last month, was quite satisfied with his day’s work.

The best time of the day was again set by Sete Gibernau (Honda 1:29.85), followed closely by Carlos Checa (Ducati, 1:29.94) and Max Biaggi (Honda, 1:29.97). Gauloises Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi (1:30.22) was fourth fastest whilst his team-mate Colin Edwards had to settle for the seventh fastest time with a lap of 1:30.60.

Rubén Xaus, (1:31.59, 67 laps)

“We tried to improve the lap times with the same tyres as yesterday. We’ve got to be patient and work in a constant manner to be able to progress. I am still recovering from my injury but I’m satisfied with the work we’ve done today. We have to find a compromise with the bike and I think that, together with all the members of the team, we’re doing a great job. In the afternoon myself and my Chief Mechanic Guy Coulon notice that we were a bit heavier.we’re a year older!”.

Toni Elías (1:32.72, 96 laps)

“We continued with our testing programme and I’m happy with the work we did today. We have to keep going like this and take everything one step at a time, which isn’t easy. We’re trying to adapt the whole bike to my size and shape and basically today we worked on the chassis and suspension. I’m satisfied.”


More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

One-thirty barrier broken at Phillip Island

The lap record at the majestic 4.448km Phillip Island, Australia was shattered today as three riders set lap times inside the 1:30 lap bracket. The elusive threshold time barrier finally fell on the second day of the planned three-day MotoGP test at the Island circuit with Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda) Carlos Checa (Marlboro Ducati) and Repsol Honda factory team rider Max Biaggi dipping inside 1:30.

Fastest man of the day Gibernau had completed his test programme at the end of today and with nothing more is already on his way home. Before he ended the session Gibernau put in five fast 1:30 laps pronouncing himself satisfied with the results and the data gathered by the team and HRC Engineers.

His teammate, Italian Marco Melandri improved yet again. Testing a range of chassis and suspension setting he consistently lapped at 1:31. Hs day was not perfect as he slid off at turn at turn 6 (Siberia) a slow left-hand corner but escaped unscathed although his RC211V Honda sidelined Melandri for two hours.

Melandri’s fellow countryman Max Biaggi also crashed at Siberia, on his run down lap. At the time Biaggi was on his way to the pits to change a tyre that was causing front-end chatter. He lay the blame for the crash at his own door but was pleased with his overall performance on the second day at Phillip Island testing two versions of the RCV’s rear suspension links.

Nicky Hayden, on the second factory RC211V Repsol Honda, ran an astonishing 115 laps of the circuit. Hayden also tested the upper and lower mounted rear suspension links but found little difference. “I think really it boils down to what feels most comfortable for the rider,” said the young American.

The Camel Honda camp was one of mixed emotions at the end of the day. Brazilian Alex Barros was disappointed failing to find the amount of front-end grip he needed to set fast times while teammate Troy Bayliss was happier with his performance than at any time since joining the team.

Australian Bayliss is finally making progress and, although there is a long way to go before he feels completely at home on he RCV. All the hard work he and the team has put in over recent weeks is beginning to establish the direction he needs to take on machine set up. Using his vast knowledge of the circuit to full advantage Bayliss had a better understanding of the RCV than at any time during pre-season testing.

Fastest man at the Sepang MotoGP test of last week, Makoto Tamada did not test today. The Japanese rider crashed yesterday and although he emerged with no broken bones Tamada was badly bruised and very stiff and the team decided he would benefit from a day of rest before taking to the track again.


Honda rider lap times and quotes.

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 1:29.855 – 81 laps.
“In Sepang we were not in the perfect conditions for a long run but there was not enough time to test. Here we worked on the set up of the bike, chassis and tyres and found the best combination of what we have. I lapped fast since this morning and the long run was quite good as I was lapping consistently in low 1:30.0. There are still some areas that can be improved but I’m happy because I have clear ideas and we are working in the right direction. The team is doing a great job and HRC and Michelin are helping us a lot. We have concentrated in two days the work scheduled for this test session, testing all the new items. I leave Australia satisfied and look forward to next test session in Qatar.”


Marco Melandri, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 1:30.953 – 71 laps.
“It was not a good day, I’m sorry because I was doing well but the crash of this afternoon has spoiled today’s test session. This morning we made some changes in the front of the bike and I had a better feeling in fact I was lapping consistently on low 1:31. In the afternoon we were looking for a final confirmation of our changes and we went back to the setting of this morning. It was a mistake, the bike was more difficult to ride and I lost the front, crashing at Turn 6. It’s a pity because I lost two-hours of testing. Tomorrow I want to ride more carefully, even if this means to run 8 tenths slower. If possible, I would like to do a long run in the afternoon.”


Max Biaggi, Repsol Honda: 1:29.97 – 96 laps.
“I felt stronger today even though I had a crash. We’ve definitely improved again today with a better suspension setting and the machine felt more consistent for a long period of time. I’m preferring the lower rear suspension link at the moment, the lap time between that and the upper link is the same but the feeling is slightly better with the lower link. But then a single lap doesn’t mean you will be fast in a race condition. The crash was my own fault really. We tried a new tyre and I knew quickly that the tyre could well be an improvement but it caused some chatter and the machine needed adjusting for the tyre. I lost the front at turn six on the lap I was coming back into the pits to make the adjustment, turn six was where the chatter was worst.”


Nicky Hayden, Repsol Honda: 1:30.430 – 115 laps.
“We really got working on some chassis testing today, spent a lot of time trying to make the changes work and it was a valuable exercise. We then had a go with what I’m normally used to but I suppose that’s what testing is all about. I tried the lower rear suspension link today, for the first time since a test in Malaysia in 2003. There’s very little difference between the upper and lower links and I think it really boils down to what feels most comfortable for the rider. I did a lot of laps today, maybe too many, which is something we want to address tomorrow and hopefully I can get a good run on a rear race tyre and grab a fast lap along the way.”


Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Alex Barros’ Chief Engineer)
“Today we tried every setting possible with the front fork but given that we haven’t taken many steps forward with it we are already preparing a new one for Alex to try tomorrow. This track is different to Sepang, there are no heavy braking areas, so we have to prepare a special fork which adapts to Phillip Island and other circuits with flowing corners like this. It’s good that we have the chance to work like this now because we will be ready when we come up against a similar situation at a Grand Prix, when you don’t have much time.”


Alex Barros, Camel Honda: 1:30.680 – 93 laps.
“This morning we worked on the electronics and we were able to improve the odd thing. Since then we’ve been working on improving grip on the front end but we’re not succeeding at the moment, even after trying a lot of things with the forks and the geometry of the bike. The rear of the bike is fine but at the moment the front is preventing me from being as efficient as I could be. I’m having to lean too far over to take the corner and that means I’m not getting the most out of the tyre. Obviously we’ll keep working on that tomorrow. As far as the cancellation of the Rio GP is concerned, obviously I’m disappointed. It is the second time this has happened (the first was in 1998) but this is even more disappointing because it was probably going to be the last Grand Prix at this track. The city prefecture is actually planning to demolish part of the track and reduce the overall length to 3,100 metres. That means it would only have been used for national races”.


Troy Bayliss, Camel Honda: 1:30.961 – 75 laps.
“Better… things are starting to get better. I’m still not perfectly comfortable on the bike but we’re getting there. The whole team, myself included, are working really hard and even though we’re not satisfied with the lap times we can see that we’re making progress and that gives me confidence for tomorrow and the next tests. We’re working hard with the guys from Michelin, the tyres are perfect and together with the set-up of the bike, which we are defining bit by bit, we’re able to make progress in the right direction. We have to keep going like this.”


Santiago Mulero, Camel Honda – Troy Bayliss’ Chief Engineer.
“Troy is getting the measure of the RC211V. We’ve still got work to do, there’s no doubt about that, but we are all much more satisfied at the end of today. We have worked well with the tyres and we have found a setting for the cycle part of the bike that he likes quite a lot. Tomorrow we’ll keep working on it and we’ll also try some new settings in the electronics.”


Makoto Tamada, Konica Minolta Honda: Did not test today.

From a press release issued by Mat Mladin Motorsports:

WE’RE GOING RACING

Mat Mladin Motorsports is pleased to announce the entry of a one rider Superbike team to compete in the 2005 AMA Superbike series.

The team will run the all new, 2005 Suzuki GSXR 1000 Superbike, which in pre-season testing has already shown its ability to dominate the time sheets.

“Mat Mladin Motorsports is excited about the opportunity to become a part of the AMA series in the Superbike class” said Mat Mladin. “I am looking forward to our first season on the racetrack. In 2005, I will wear two hats, one as defending Superbike Champion trying for a 6th crown and the other as a team owner. I am fortunate to be surrounded by some very experienced and professional people, who will be of great assistance in 2005. We look forward to Daytona, but will approach the first race of the season cautiously as our race program has come together quite late and getting a good solid points base established will be our number one priority. Our rider for 2005 will be the experienced, multi-time Australian Superbike Champion Marty Craggill.”

The team’s debut will be at Daytona International Speedway during Bike Week, for the first round of the AMA Superbike Championship.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to race in the United States for the 2005 season”, said Marty Craggill. “To be associated with Mat Mladin Motorsports for the up coming season has really given me a boost, and I’m excited to be racing the new for 2005, Suzuki GSXR 1000.”

Mat Mladin Motorsports would like to thank, Suzuki, Yoshimura, Joe Rocket and Dunlop for their support for the 2005 race season.

We are also currently talking to many great companies about support for this project and anyone who would like to know more can contact the team via email at: [email protected]

From a press release issued by RPS:

Racing Performance Services kicks off the 2005 season!!!

RPS is geared up for another phenomenal year in American road racing. The continued desire to help talented riders improve their on-track performances is what drives the company. The company goal for this season is 250 wins, an AMA podium finish in the Formula Extreme class, and 20 or more class championship for RPS Texas and Colorado customers and sponsored riders. RPS sponsored riding phenomenon Corey Burleson fired the first shot of the 2005 season with an impressive 6 races and 6 wins at Talledega in the WERA Mid-Central season opener. Burleson turned everyone’s head with blazing fast times on his Smith Cycle Center GSXR-600. His motorcycle featured RPS custom valved Penske shock and Traxxion Dynamics forks. For 2005 RPS is focusing on providing the absolutely highest quality products any customer can obtain. Our diverse product line of proven winning suspension solutions only underscores this strategy. RPS is focusing its rider support in the AMA Pro Racing, CMRA, and MRA competition arenas. RPS is also re-launching its very popular Advanced Racing School and is sold out for its school(s) already. Lastly, RPS will once again continue the support of the RRW action fund and is very proud that the company was recognized as a top contributor to the fund.

Product and Company Direction for 2005 – Although RPS customers overwhelming choose Traxxion Dynamics fork valve solutions, RPS will continue to be product agnostic in 2005. RPS primarily sells and supports Traxxion Dynamics, Ohlins, and Penske products. New for this year is the Traxxion Dynamics 20mm cartridge product line that is creating quite a buzz among riders who want to win. Ricky Orlando will be using these in his FX/Daytona 200 Kawasaki 636. RPS continues to improve its custom valving and piston selections for Penske Shocks that provide incredible traction for racers. RPS is positioned to once again be the top Traxxion Dynamics product dealer in the United States. In order to continue the growth experienced by RPS, Leonard Gremillion and David Rose will finish their apprenticeships this year and begin making major contributions to the company in the Texas and Colorado markets respectively. Lastly, RPS has started a program to take riders that are fresh off the dirt tracks and created a rider-training program that capitalizes on their dirt skills for road race competition. New CMRA racer and former motocross champion Shea Fouchek is our first rider on this program and currently the results are fantastic.

AMA Pro Racing – For 2005, RPS will focus on sponsored riders Ty Howard and Ricky Orlando in the AMA Pro Racing arena. The goal of RPS is to put these riders on the podium in either the Formula Extreme or 600 supersport. For the Daytona 200, RPS will be providing suspension support for Ty Howard on the GP Tech Yamaha R-6, Ricky Orlando on a privately owned Kawasaki ZX-636, and MRA young sensation Justin Meyers on his Comcables sponsored R-6.

CMRA Racing – RPS is continuing to provide dominant product support in the CMRA sprint and endurance series. New for 2005, RPS is providing two novices with riding training and suspension sponsorship. Shea Fouchek and Chris Kutalek are receiving focused support this year. Out of the gate, Shea Fouchek has turned heads with amazing speed and talent while Chris has been right behind him every step of the way.. RPS continues to support its core of sponsored riders. The sprint racing sponsored rider assault includes Andy Galindo, Cory Burleson, Phillip Lawlis, Phillip Fisher, Ty Howard, Miki Espiritu, Mark Godfrey, Josh Lowery, Mark Delano, Will Schupak, Chris Kutalek, and Shea Fouchek. RPS continues to support the CMRA Overall Endurance Champion and #1 plate holder Northwest Honda on their brilliant CBR1000RR. Middleweight Champion Lone Star Track Days, Lone Gunmen Racing, and Big Air Racing will continue to represent RPS as sponsored teams.

MRA Racing – 2004 was simply phenomenal for RPS customers and sponsored riders in the MRA. Over 45 Season Championship awards were given out to riders that chose RPS suspension solutions. RPS Customers and sponsored riders swept several classes. In Open Supersport for example, if you were riding on any suspension setup other than RPS then there was no chance of getting a championship award. INCREDIBLE!!! For 2005 MRA Open Supersport Champion Dennie Burke will be the lead RPS sponsored rider, but Crash Lowe, Ricky Orlando, David Gallant, Mike Applegate, Mark Applegate, Alex Kuretz, Andrew Brown, Greg Greenwood, Gene Bazyl, Justin Myers, Mike Applehans, Ryan Burke, Jake Latimer, Rich Deeming, Jason Trabert, Doug Lyle, Jason Smith, and Jeff Brown are set to dominate the MRA roadracing scene with RPS sponsorship.

RPS would like to thank our incredible sponsored riders and customers that support the company. Because of them RPS and its customers are both winners.

For more information about the company or its products, call (713) 304 5509 or visit www.roadracinghelp.com.

Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Racers and fans may want to keep August 27-28 open, just in case efforts to resurrect the AMA Superbike National at VIR by bringing in a professional race promoter succeed.

That’s the latest unconfirmed hot rumor sweeping the virtual paddock.

As usual, nobody who actually could confirm or deny the rumors, will speak on the record.

Dan Murphy’s RPM (Race Promotion Management) is the likely promoter if the deal goes down. Murphy and company put together the AMA National at Road Atlanta before the track did a direct deal with AMA Pro Racing and cut him out, and Murphy also promoted the combined World Superbike and AMA Superbike races at Laguna Seca before the track decided to promote its own events.

If it happens, the VIR deal will be a reversal of sorts, with a track deciding it can’t effectively promote an AMA Superbike National, and Murphy coming in to take it over.

Stay tuned.