WERA racer and Roadracing World contributor Beth Wyse married WERA racer Everett “Special Ed” Dolgner on Saturday, April 23 on the beach in Destin, Florida.
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AMA Team Press Releases From Fontana
Mat Mladin led a Yoshimura Suzuki sweep of the top three spots in Friday Superbike qualifying at California Speedway for round three of the AMA Superbike Championship. Mladin took the provisional pole by lowering his own lap record on the 2.3-mile road course to 1:24.184 minutes, well under last year’s pole time of 1:24.759 and Mladin put the improvement to a change in the track and new Dunlop tyres. “It’s got to be half a second quicker, I would say,” he said of the track change, which widened and softened the chicane on the back straight, making for a much faster transition and exit. “This area here was really bothering me,” said Honda’s Miguel Duhamel, who was instrumental in getting the change made. “I really thought it was a safety issue.” As for the tyres, Mladin said this year’s Dunlops have allowed him to race at 100% from start to finish, rather than at 90%, as he’d been forced to do for some time. “This year, there’s certainly a higher confidence from Dunlop for us and you can just give it to it for the whole race and grip’s good and the tyre just holds up a lot better than it ever has.” Mladin was 0.143 seconds faster than team mate Aaron Yates, whose last lap was his best, with Ben Spies 0.531 off the pole time. Asked whether he thought that meant the racing would be closer, Mladin said, “I’ve seen a lot of soft tyres going in at the end, so we’ll see what happens in the race.” The Ducati Austin team was fourth and fifth, respectively, Eric Bostrom leading team mate Neil Hodgson, as he had in their final Fontana test. American Hondas were next, with Miguel Duhamel sixth – despite a first turn crash – followed by team mate Jake Zemke. More, from a press release issued by Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin: BOSTROM ON PROVISIONAL FRONT ROW AT FONTANA Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin’s Eric Bostrom put his factory 999 Superbike on the provisional front row on Friday at the Fontana AMA Superbike event. His teammate Neil Hodgson was one spot behind him in fifth place despite feeling the effects of an illness. Bostrom began the day at the 2.3-mile California track by finishing second in the day’s first practice session. The Californian backed that up with his fourth place effort in qualifying. His best lap time was 1:24.938. “I’m really happy to be on the provisional front row,” Bostrom said afterward. “Jon (Cornwell) and Gary (Medley) made a change to the fork for the qualifying session that really worked. The front end was really nice. We haven’t quite got the rear end sorted out, so I know we still have a little time to be made. Overall, things are going well and our times on race tires are competitive with the others. We’re really looking forward to the race.” Hodgson was fifth in the first of two qualifying session on the weekend. An illness slowed the 2003 World Superbike champion’s efforts on Friday but he still managed a quite respectable 1:25. 623. “I’ve got a bit of a virus or something,” said Hodgson. “I got it from my little girl. The illness didn’t last long with her, so I’m hopeful I’m better for tomorrow. I have no energy and it was hard to concentrate, and you have to be aggressive and have the strength at a track like this. When you feel bad, you want to sit on the sofa, not race a motorcycle professionally against some great riders.” Team owner Terry Gregoricka is hopeful Hodgson will return to the podium at California Speedway just like he had been at Daytona and Barber, and that Bostrom will join him. “Both the riders were in the top 5 today, so that’s a good start,” said Gregoricka. “Neil was sick today and put in a strong effort despite that. It was good to see Eric on the provisional front row again and nice to see the hard work he and the team have put in pay off for us. We’re happy, but we’re far from satisfied. We want to be a little bit closer to the front. Our goal tomorrow is to get both riders on the front row and more podium finishes this weekend.” Tomorrow’s action sees the second round of qualifying conclude before lunch and the 28-lap Superbike race begins at 3:50 local time.
Updated Post: Zemke Takes AMA FX Pole At California Speedway, Lowers Lap Record By Over A Second
American Honda’s Jake Zemke earned the AMA Formula Xtreme pole position during qualifying Friday at California Speedway with a new lap record time of 1:26.039 on his CBR600RR. Zemke held the old record of 1:27.276 since last season. Zemke’s teammate Miguel Duhamel was second-fastest with a time of 1:27.067. Australian Ben Attard qualified third with a time of 1:27.764 on his Attack Kawasaki ZX-6RR. Chris Peris claimed the final spot on the front row with a lap of 1:28.587 on his Topline Printing Yamaha YZF-R6. All of the front-row qualifiers rode on Dunlop tires. The first non-Dunlop user on the grid is Vincent Haskovec, who recorded a fifth-fastest time of 1:28.933 on his Pirelli-equipped Team M4 EMGO Suzuki GSX-R600. Update: Ben Attard was disqualified for his Kawasaki ZX-6RR being under the minimum allowable weight during post-qualifying inspections. Provisional AMA Formula Xtreme Qualifying Results: 1. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR600RR, 1:26.039 2. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR600RR, 1:27.067 3. Chris Peris, Yam YZF-R6, 1:28.587 4. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R600, 1:28.933 5. Danny Eslick, Suz GSX-R600, 1:29.074 6. Nicky Moore, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.173 7. Robert Jensen, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.201 8. Chris Caylor, Suz GSX-R600, 1:29.427 9. Heath Small, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.862 10. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR, 1:30.016 11. Nathan Hester, Yam YZF-R6, 1:31.776 12. Matt Furtek, Kaw ZX-6RR, 1:31.816 13. Ryan Andrews, Duc 749R, 1:31.901 14. Tim Knutson, Yam YZF-R6, 1:32.343 15. Armando Ferrer, Yam YZF-R6, 1:32.728 16. Corey Neuer, Suz GSX-R600, 1:33.309 17. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6, 1:33.362 18. Victor Chirinos, Yam YZF-R6, 1:33.739 19. Craig McLean, Duc 749R, 1:34.138 20. Justin Filice, Hon CBR600RR, 1:34.384 21. Jay Tanner, Yam YZF-R6, 1:34.399 22. Ron Northup, Yam YZF-R6, 1:37.889 23. Paolo Mariano, Suz GSX-R600, 1:39.086 24. J.C. Gibbs, Kaw ZX-6RR, 1:43.354 DQ. Ben Attard, Kawasaki ZX-6RR, 1:27.763 More, from a press release issued by M4 EMGO Suzuki: HASKOVEC ON FX FRONT ROW AT FONTANA Following two stellar weekends to kick off the season 2005 AMA season, Team M4 EMGO Suzuki came into Friday’s opening day of action at California Speedway in Fontana, CA with high expectations. And while the team put in a solid day’s effort, they came away wanting more. Vincent Haskovec qualified his Pirelli-shod GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme racer on the front row for tomorrow’s final with a best lap of 1:28.993. However, despite qualifying fourth, the team feels it will need to make improvements overnight if the Czech Republic native is to dice for the win as he did a week ago at Barber Motorsports Park. Immediately following FX qualifying, Haskovec returned to the 2.3-mile circuit and put his Superstock-spec GSX-R1000 tenth on the provisional Superbike grid with a fast time of 1:26.994. His teammate, Geoff May, wasn’t far back, provisionally qualifying thirteenth for the twin 100k Superbike races at 1:27.572. Earlier in the day, the two put in time during the morning’s free practices in order to prepare for Saturday’s Superstock and Supersport qualifying heats. Haskovec was tenth fastest in the hour-long Superstock session (1:27.624), while his May was twelfth (1:28.021). May was also twelfth aboard his GSX-R600 Supersport racer, stopping the clocks at 1:30.629. Crew Chief Keith Perry summed up Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Friday at California Speedway. “The day didn’t go as well as what we’ve been accustomed to. Actually, we struggled a bit on every machine that we had. I want to tell you some of it’s because we didn’t get to come test here, but I really don’t think that’s all of it. We’ve got some set-up issues that are totally different from where we’ve been. I think we were finally starting to get a handle on it late this afternoon. “But everyone’s working hard, keeping their head up, and keeping a positive attitude,” Perry continued. “The two weekends up until now have been so much better, so much easier. Everybody has been competitive in everything we do. We expect that to continue and we’re disappointed when it’s not. We’re going to work hard to correct that.” Haskovec will race the 17-lap Formula Xtreme final tomorrow afternoon.
Eric Bostrom’s Ducati Fastest Through California Speedway Speed Traps
AMA Superbike Speeds (as measured by AMA Pro Racing at start/finish during Friday morning practice at California Speedway): 1. Eric Bostrom, Ducati 999F05, 184.64 mph 2. Ben Spies, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 180.35 mph 3. Kurtis Roberts, Honda CBR1000RR, 179.81 mph 4. Miguel Duhamel, Honda CBR1000RR, 179.61 mph 5. Marty Craggill, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 179.30 mph 6. Neil Hodgson, Ducati 999F05, 178.49 mph 7. Jake Zemke, Honda CBR1000RR, 178.30 mph 8. Mat Mladin, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 178.11 mph 9. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 177.92 mph 10. Aaron Yates, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 177.54 mph 11. Brent George, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 176.75 mph 12. Larry Pegram, Honda CBR1000RR, 174.56 mph 13. Steve Rapp, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.52 mph 14. Josh Hayes, Kawasaki ZX-10R, 174.34 mph 15. Mark Ledesma, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.30 mph 16. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.27 mph 17. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.97 mph 18. Tony Meiring, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.94 mph 19. Heath Small, Yamaha YZF-R1, 173.54 mph 20. Jake Holden, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.36 mph
Ducati Makes Deal To Enter Chinese Market
Long-term partnership agreement announced with important Chinese company on the eve of the Grand Prix of China DUCATI MOTOR HOLDING ARRIVES IN CHINA Shanghai (China), 28 April 2005 On the eve of motorcycle racing’s first-ever grand prix in China, Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A (NYSE: DMH, Borsa Italiana S.p.A: DMH) wishes to announce its arrival in that market. The news was announced in Shanghai by Federico Minoli, Chairman and CEO of Ducati, during a meeting with the international press present at the Chinese round of the World MotoGP championship, and in the presence of Ducati Marlboro Team riders, Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa, a delegation from the Emilia-Romagna regional authorities and with the support of Shell Advance, Ducati’s technical partner in sporting as well as production activities, and with the on-site consultancy of ‘Nuovo Mondo International’. For its arrival in China, the Italian manufacturer, based in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, has reached a long-term partnership agreement with Three on The Bund, represented by Mr Handel Lee, a successful Chinese entrepreneur in the field of large-scale retail trade, who is also a great fan of Ducati. The marketing strategy drawn up for Ducati’s entry into this market will evolve in three precise ways. The first regards the importation of motorbikes, accessories and spare parts into China. This will involve the opening of two stores, one in Beijing and the other in Shanghai, which will import Ducati bikes directly from Italy. Prestigious, expensive, high-performance motorbikes belong to a sector which in China is yet to take off but it is an area that offers major potential growth. Ducati is therefore banking on the exclusive and Italian nature of its bikes and on the particular features of its products to enter into this important market, following a strategy that has already been traced by other important Italian companies, Ferrari first and foremost. The other aspect on which Ducati is concentrating energies and resources is clothing distribution, with an agreement that is already in place with Three on The Bund Retail. The company has opened up a store in Shanghai, which is achieving great success with the sale of Ducati clothing and which has enabled the Italian brand to spread its name in China before the arrival of its bikes. The third strategy aspect is the development of the Ducati brand, which will follow the history of this Italian manufacturer, that is through racing. Ducati is the only Italian manufacturer present in MotoGP, and it is through participation in this championship and in this first-ever Grand Prix of China, that Ducati will organise two riding schools in circuits, one in Beijing and one in Shanghai, where the bikes will also be available for Chinese fans who wish to experience all the excitement of riding the twin-cylinder Italian machines. “In China we are certain to start off in the right way” declared Federico Minoli, Chairman and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding. “We are starting with racing, because all of our activities and products are born on the track. From here we will create the riding schools, because it is only by developing a passion for these esoteric and special bikes that the market can then follow us.” “The passion that I have for this glorious marque” added Handel Lee, Chairman of Three on The Bund, “is both a source of pride and a stimulation to promote and develop Ducati’s entry into the Chinese market. I am honoured by this partnership and I am sure that Ducati will also have a great future in this country.” Carlo Alberto del Mastro, Shell Global Motorcycle Oil Brand and Sponsorship Manager: ‘For Shell, China is a very important country – and to be able to accompany Ducati with their first steps in to this market is a fantastic opportunity. Just like Ducati, we test our products on the race track and then, once they have been proven in the toughest environment – MotoGP, we use the technology in our production Shell Advance motorcycle oil. This means you get more life from your bike with Shell Advance and Ducati.
Ford Quality Checked Funds 30 Sections Of Airfence For AMA National Dirt Track Races Promoted By IMDA
Ford Quality Checked/AMA Flat Track Series Promoters Receive Access To Airfence Deal between Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned program and the Illinois Motorcycle Dealers Association (IMDA) provides access of revolutionary Airfence protection systems to promoters of Ford QC/AMA Flat Track Series ANN ARBOR, Mich., (April 29, 2005) In an effort to improve safety and bolster relations between the sport of flat track’s sponsors, promoters and racers, the Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned program title sponsor of the 2005 AMA Flat Track Series announced today it has arranged a sizable grant for the Illinois Motorcycle Dealers Association (IMDA) in order to purchase the world renown Airfence brand safety barrier for flat track racing. The Ford Quality Checked grant to the IMDA, a not-for-profit trade association for the Illinois motorcycle dealers, comes in addition to the high accordance with safety that the IMDA has been known for, including utilizing existing Airfence modules (on loan from the AMA) and providing additional safety measures above and beyond that which the rules dictate. “Thanks to the Ford Quality Checked ‘Rider Safety Improvement’ grant the IMDA has purchased 30 Airfence modules to be used at the Springfield Mile and DuQuoin Mile,” said Tommra Luparell, Executive Director of the IMDA. “That is twice the number of Airfence modules that has ever been used in the history of flat track racing.” According to its website, Airfence Safety Systems is an Australian-based, global company committed to providing the highest quality, affordable and practical safety systems for motor (and other) sports, particularly motorcycle racing. “As the series sponsor Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned wanted to strengthen our partnership with the AMA and series promoters by simultaneously taking steps to assist the series financially while also improving rider safety,” said Mike Dennis, Ford’s Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned Program Manager. “We have developed an excellent working relationship with the IMDA through our involvement with the flat track series over the past three years and are looking forward to the positive feedback from the riders on the series’ access to the additional Airfence.” Added series racer Henry Wiles, who got a first-hand look at how the Airfence comes into play: “After experiencing the Airfence close up at high speeds, I am very grateful it was there. Without it I could have suffered multiple broken bones, along with a very lengthy hospital stay. Instead I got up and walked away.” Note: The Airfence is scheduled to arrive from Australia (where it is constructed) in time for the May 29th race at Springfield. (Roadracingworld.com Editorial Note: Wiles hit one 14 sections of Airfence provided by the Roadracing World Action Fund for deployment by AMA Pro Racing, during the last AMA Springfield Mile weekend.)
Mladin, Eric Bostrom Fastest In First AMA Superbike Practice At California Speedway
Provisional Friday AMA Superbike Practice Times: 1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:25.413 2. Eric Bostrom, Ducati, 1:25.609 3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:25.956 4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:25.998 5. Neil Hodgson, Ducati, 1:26.548 6. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:26.910 7. Josh Hayes, Kawasaki, 1:27.180 8. Marty Craggill, Suzuki, 1:27.451 9. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:28.010 10. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:28.099 11. John Haner, Suzuki, 1:28.249 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:28.294 13. Jake Holden, Suzuki, 1:28.340 14. Kurtis Roberts, Honda, 1:28.417 15. Eric Wood, Suzuki, 1:28.505 16. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:28.898 17. Jeff Tigert, Honda, 1:28.916 18. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:28.944 19. Heath Small, Yamaha, 1:29.097 20. Cory West, Suzuki, 1:29.307 21. Jeremy Toye, Honda, 1:29.392 22. Clint McBain, Suzuki, 1:29.507 23. Scott Jensen, Suzuki, 1:29.614 24. Matt Lynn, Suzuki, 1:29.640 25. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki, 1:29.779 26. Tony Meiring, Suzuki, 1:29.931 27. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:30.327 28. Brent George, Suzuki, 1:30.431 29. Mark Ledesma, Suzuki, 1:30.467 30. Lee Acree, Suzuki, 1:30.482 31. Jason Curtis, Suzuki, 1:30.809 32. J.J. Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:31.317 33. David Bell, Suzuki, 1:32.110 34. Dean Mizdal, Suzuki, 1:32.733 35. C.R. Gittere, Suzuki, 1:32.814 36. David Sanders, Suzuki, 1:33.006 37. Mike Sullivan, Yamaha, 1:33.301 38. Taylor Knapp, Yamaha, 1:33.610 39. Reno Karimian, Suzuki, 1:34.233 40. Mark Simon, Suzuki, 1:34.480 41. James Kerker, Honda, 1:35.145 42. Peter Holzinger, Suzuki, 1:35.781
Updated Post: DiSalvo Fastest In Problem-filled Friday Morning AMA Supersport At Fontana
Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was the fastest rider in Friday morning AMA Supersport practice at California Speedway with a time of 1:28.013 on his YZF-R6. The practice was stopped three times. The first stoppage was due to oil put down by the Yamaha of J.C. Gibbs. The oil drain plug of Gibbs’ YZF-R6 appeared to have come loose, according to AMA Pro Racing Superbike Series Manager Ron Barrick. The second stoppage was caused by Jeremiah Johnson’s crash in the turn one chicane. Johnson was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center with shoulder pain. The final stoppage was caused by Damon Buckmaster, who crashed his factory Yamaha YZF-R6 at the exit of the turn one chicane. Buckmaster was not injured in the lowside crash, which may have resulted from the Australian losing traction on a helmet faceshield tear-off lying on the track. Provisional Friday Morning AMA Supersport Practice Times: 1. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:28.013 2. Damon Buckimaster, Yamaha, 1:28.355 3. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:28.519 4. Roger Lee Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:28.905 5. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:29.014 6. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:29.374 7. Ben Attard, Kawasaki, 1:29.419 8. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:29.582 9. Robert Jensen, Yamaha, 1:29.916 10. Chris Peris, Yamaha, 1:30.503 11. Danny Eslick, Suzuki, 1:30.629 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:30.629 13. Nicky Moore, Yamaha, 1:31.011 14. Blake Young, Suzuki, 1:31.242 15. Matt Furtek, Kawasaki, 1:31.837 16. Chris Siglin, Suzuki, 1:32.016 17. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:32.502 18. Jim Wood, Kawasaki, 1:32.548 19. Nathan Hester, Yamaha, 1:32.911 20. Jeremiah Johnson, Suzuki, 1:33.231
Updated Post: Hacking Won AMA Supersport Race At Barber Using WP Fork Internals
Yamaha’s Jamie Hacking used WP fork internals to win the AMA Supersport race at Barber Motorsports Park. “We’re just exploring other avenues,” Tom Halverson, manager of the factory Yamaha Supersport team, told Roadracingworld.com during Friday morning practice at California Speedway. “Our goal is to win races, of course, and we want the best equipment on the bikes to do that. Right now we don’t have a suspension sponsor. So we’re just trying to see if we’re missing something or if we can learn something and go from there.” Several of the Yamaha YZF-R6s of the factory Supersport team and the YZF-R1s of the Graves Yamaha Superstock team, both long-time users of Ohlins components, were equipped with WP components for Hacking, Damon Buckmaster and Aaron Gobert to try Friday morning at California Speedway. Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo, however, continues to stay with Ohlins suspension on his bikes. Halverson said it is up to each of his four riders to decide whether they want to stay with Ohlins suspension components or switch to WP. Halverson said Yamaha was attracted to WP after Yamaha’s World Supersport team began using WP products successfully. Yamaha’s AMA teams first tried the products on its Superstock bikes while testing at Barber in March, and some of the Yamaha riders used WP components on their bikes during the Barber race weekend, including Hacking.
DiSalvo Heads Friday Morning AMA Superstock Practice In California
Provisional Friday Morning AMA Superstock Practice Times: 1. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:25.968 2. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:26.569 3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:26.740 4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:27.024 5. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:27.067 6. Jake Holden, Suzuki, 1:27.403 7. Roger Lee Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:27.407 8. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:27.409 9. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:27.553 10. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:27.624 11. Tony Meiring, Suzuki, 1:27.737 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:28.021 13. Nicky Moore, Yamaha, 1:28.229 14. John Haner, Suzuki, 1:28.342 15. Blake Young, Suzuki, 1:29.357 16. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:29.359 17. Matt Lynn, Suzuki, 1:29.670 18. Eric Wood, Suzuki, 1:29.739 19. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki, 1:29.939 20. Brent George, Suzuki, 1:30.559
Recent Wedding
WERA racer and Roadracing World contributor Beth Wyse married WERA racer Everett “Special Ed” Dolgner on Saturday, April 23 on the beach in Destin, Florida.
AMA Team Press Releases From Fontana
Mat Mladin led a Yoshimura Suzuki sweep of the top three spots in Friday Superbike qualifying at California Speedway for round three of the AMA Superbike Championship. Mladin took the provisional pole by lowering his own lap record on the 2.3-mile road course to 1:24.184 minutes, well under last year’s pole time of 1:24.759 and Mladin put the improvement to a change in the track and new Dunlop tyres. “It’s got to be half a second quicker, I would say,” he said of the track change, which widened and softened the chicane on the back straight, making for a much faster transition and exit. “This area here was really bothering me,” said Honda’s Miguel Duhamel, who was instrumental in getting the change made. “I really thought it was a safety issue.” As for the tyres, Mladin said this year’s Dunlops have allowed him to race at 100% from start to finish, rather than at 90%, as he’d been forced to do for some time. “This year, there’s certainly a higher confidence from Dunlop for us and you can just give it to it for the whole race and grip’s good and the tyre just holds up a lot better than it ever has.” Mladin was 0.143 seconds faster than team mate Aaron Yates, whose last lap was his best, with Ben Spies 0.531 off the pole time. Asked whether he thought that meant the racing would be closer, Mladin said, “I’ve seen a lot of soft tyres going in at the end, so we’ll see what happens in the race.” The Ducati Austin team was fourth and fifth, respectively, Eric Bostrom leading team mate Neil Hodgson, as he had in their final Fontana test. American Hondas were next, with Miguel Duhamel sixth – despite a first turn crash – followed by team mate Jake Zemke. More, from a press release issued by Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin: BOSTROM ON PROVISIONAL FRONT ROW AT FONTANA Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin’s Eric Bostrom put his factory 999 Superbike on the provisional front row on Friday at the Fontana AMA Superbike event. His teammate Neil Hodgson was one spot behind him in fifth place despite feeling the effects of an illness. Bostrom began the day at the 2.3-mile California track by finishing second in the day’s first practice session. The Californian backed that up with his fourth place effort in qualifying. His best lap time was 1:24.938. “I’m really happy to be on the provisional front row,” Bostrom said afterward. “Jon (Cornwell) and Gary (Medley) made a change to the fork for the qualifying session that really worked. The front end was really nice. We haven’t quite got the rear end sorted out, so I know we still have a little time to be made. Overall, things are going well and our times on race tires are competitive with the others. We’re really looking forward to the race.” Hodgson was fifth in the first of two qualifying session on the weekend. An illness slowed the 2003 World Superbike champion’s efforts on Friday but he still managed a quite respectable 1:25. 623. “I’ve got a bit of a virus or something,” said Hodgson. “I got it from my little girl. The illness didn’t last long with her, so I’m hopeful I’m better for tomorrow. I have no energy and it was hard to concentrate, and you have to be aggressive and have the strength at a track like this. When you feel bad, you want to sit on the sofa, not race a motorcycle professionally against some great riders.” Team owner Terry Gregoricka is hopeful Hodgson will return to the podium at California Speedway just like he had been at Daytona and Barber, and that Bostrom will join him. “Both the riders were in the top 5 today, so that’s a good start,” said Gregoricka. “Neil was sick today and put in a strong effort despite that. It was good to see Eric on the provisional front row again and nice to see the hard work he and the team have put in pay off for us. We’re happy, but we’re far from satisfied. We want to be a little bit closer to the front. Our goal tomorrow is to get both riders on the front row and more podium finishes this weekend.” Tomorrow’s action sees the second round of qualifying conclude before lunch and the 28-lap Superbike race begins at 3:50 local time.
Updated Post: Zemke Takes AMA FX Pole At California Speedway, Lowers Lap Record By Over A Second
American Honda’s Jake Zemke earned the AMA Formula Xtreme pole position during qualifying Friday at California Speedway with a new lap record time of 1:26.039 on his CBR600RR. Zemke held the old record of 1:27.276 since last season. Zemke’s teammate Miguel Duhamel was second-fastest with a time of 1:27.067. Australian Ben Attard qualified third with a time of 1:27.764 on his Attack Kawasaki ZX-6RR. Chris Peris claimed the final spot on the front row with a lap of 1:28.587 on his Topline Printing Yamaha YZF-R6. All of the front-row qualifiers rode on Dunlop tires. The first non-Dunlop user on the grid is Vincent Haskovec, who recorded a fifth-fastest time of 1:28.933 on his Pirelli-equipped Team M4 EMGO Suzuki GSX-R600. Update: Ben Attard was disqualified for his Kawasaki ZX-6RR being under the minimum allowable weight during post-qualifying inspections. Provisional AMA Formula Xtreme Qualifying Results: 1. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR600RR, 1:26.039 2. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR600RR, 1:27.067 3. Chris Peris, Yam YZF-R6, 1:28.587 4. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R600, 1:28.933 5. Danny Eslick, Suz GSX-R600, 1:29.074 6. Nicky Moore, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.173 7. Robert Jensen, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.201 8. Chris Caylor, Suz GSX-R600, 1:29.427 9. Heath Small, Yam YZF-R6, 1:29.862 10. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR, 1:30.016 11. Nathan Hester, Yam YZF-R6, 1:31.776 12. Matt Furtek, Kaw ZX-6RR, 1:31.816 13. Ryan Andrews, Duc 749R, 1:31.901 14. Tim Knutson, Yam YZF-R6, 1:32.343 15. Armando Ferrer, Yam YZF-R6, 1:32.728 16. Corey Neuer, Suz GSX-R600, 1:33.309 17. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6, 1:33.362 18. Victor Chirinos, Yam YZF-R6, 1:33.739 19. Craig McLean, Duc 749R, 1:34.138 20. Justin Filice, Hon CBR600RR, 1:34.384 21. Jay Tanner, Yam YZF-R6, 1:34.399 22. Ron Northup, Yam YZF-R6, 1:37.889 23. Paolo Mariano, Suz GSX-R600, 1:39.086 24. J.C. Gibbs, Kaw ZX-6RR, 1:43.354 DQ. Ben Attard, Kawasaki ZX-6RR, 1:27.763 More, from a press release issued by M4 EMGO Suzuki: HASKOVEC ON FX FRONT ROW AT FONTANA Following two stellar weekends to kick off the season 2005 AMA season, Team M4 EMGO Suzuki came into Friday’s opening day of action at California Speedway in Fontana, CA with high expectations. And while the team put in a solid day’s effort, they came away wanting more. Vincent Haskovec qualified his Pirelli-shod GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme racer on the front row for tomorrow’s final with a best lap of 1:28.993. However, despite qualifying fourth, the team feels it will need to make improvements overnight if the Czech Republic native is to dice for the win as he did a week ago at Barber Motorsports Park. Immediately following FX qualifying, Haskovec returned to the 2.3-mile circuit and put his Superstock-spec GSX-R1000 tenth on the provisional Superbike grid with a fast time of 1:26.994. His teammate, Geoff May, wasn’t far back, provisionally qualifying thirteenth for the twin 100k Superbike races at 1:27.572. Earlier in the day, the two put in time during the morning’s free practices in order to prepare for Saturday’s Superstock and Supersport qualifying heats. Haskovec was tenth fastest in the hour-long Superstock session (1:27.624), while his May was twelfth (1:28.021). May was also twelfth aboard his GSX-R600 Supersport racer, stopping the clocks at 1:30.629. Crew Chief Keith Perry summed up Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Friday at California Speedway. “The day didn’t go as well as what we’ve been accustomed to. Actually, we struggled a bit on every machine that we had. I want to tell you some of it’s because we didn’t get to come test here, but I really don’t think that’s all of it. We’ve got some set-up issues that are totally different from where we’ve been. I think we were finally starting to get a handle on it late this afternoon. “But everyone’s working hard, keeping their head up, and keeping a positive attitude,” Perry continued. “The two weekends up until now have been so much better, so much easier. Everybody has been competitive in everything we do. We expect that to continue and we’re disappointed when it’s not. We’re going to work hard to correct that.” Haskovec will race the 17-lap Formula Xtreme final tomorrow afternoon.
Eric Bostrom’s Ducati Fastest Through California Speedway Speed Traps
AMA Superbike Speeds (as measured by AMA Pro Racing at start/finish during Friday morning practice at California Speedway): 1. Eric Bostrom, Ducati 999F05, 184.64 mph 2. Ben Spies, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 180.35 mph 3. Kurtis Roberts, Honda CBR1000RR, 179.81 mph 4. Miguel Duhamel, Honda CBR1000RR, 179.61 mph 5. Marty Craggill, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 179.30 mph 6. Neil Hodgson, Ducati 999F05, 178.49 mph 7. Jake Zemke, Honda CBR1000RR, 178.30 mph 8. Mat Mladin, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 178.11 mph 9. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 177.92 mph 10. Aaron Yates, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 177.54 mph 11. Brent George, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 176.75 mph 12. Larry Pegram, Honda CBR1000RR, 174.56 mph 13. Steve Rapp, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.52 mph 14. Josh Hayes, Kawasaki ZX-10R, 174.34 mph 15. Mark Ledesma, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.30 mph 16. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 174.27 mph 17. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.97 mph 18. Tony Meiring, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.94 mph 19. Heath Small, Yamaha YZF-R1, 173.54 mph 20. Jake Holden, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 173.36 mph
Ducati Makes Deal To Enter Chinese Market
Long-term partnership agreement announced with important Chinese company on the eve of the Grand Prix of China DUCATI MOTOR HOLDING ARRIVES IN CHINA Shanghai (China), 28 April 2005 On the eve of motorcycle racing’s first-ever grand prix in China, Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A (NYSE: DMH, Borsa Italiana S.p.A: DMH) wishes to announce its arrival in that market. The news was announced in Shanghai by Federico Minoli, Chairman and CEO of Ducati, during a meeting with the international press present at the Chinese round of the World MotoGP championship, and in the presence of Ducati Marlboro Team riders, Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa, a delegation from the Emilia-Romagna regional authorities and with the support of Shell Advance, Ducati’s technical partner in sporting as well as production activities, and with the on-site consultancy of ‘Nuovo Mondo International’. For its arrival in China, the Italian manufacturer, based in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, has reached a long-term partnership agreement with Three on The Bund, represented by Mr Handel Lee, a successful Chinese entrepreneur in the field of large-scale retail trade, who is also a great fan of Ducati. The marketing strategy drawn up for Ducati’s entry into this market will evolve in three precise ways. The first regards the importation of motorbikes, accessories and spare parts into China. This will involve the opening of two stores, one in Beijing and the other in Shanghai, which will import Ducati bikes directly from Italy. Prestigious, expensive, high-performance motorbikes belong to a sector which in China is yet to take off but it is an area that offers major potential growth. Ducati is therefore banking on the exclusive and Italian nature of its bikes and on the particular features of its products to enter into this important market, following a strategy that has already been traced by other important Italian companies, Ferrari first and foremost. The other aspect on which Ducati is concentrating energies and resources is clothing distribution, with an agreement that is already in place with Three on The Bund Retail. The company has opened up a store in Shanghai, which is achieving great success with the sale of Ducati clothing and which has enabled the Italian brand to spread its name in China before the arrival of its bikes. The third strategy aspect is the development of the Ducati brand, which will follow the history of this Italian manufacturer, that is through racing. Ducati is the only Italian manufacturer present in MotoGP, and it is through participation in this championship and in this first-ever Grand Prix of China, that Ducati will organise two riding schools in circuits, one in Beijing and one in Shanghai, where the bikes will also be available for Chinese fans who wish to experience all the excitement of riding the twin-cylinder Italian machines. “In China we are certain to start off in the right way” declared Federico Minoli, Chairman and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding. “We are starting with racing, because all of our activities and products are born on the track. From here we will create the riding schools, because it is only by developing a passion for these esoteric and special bikes that the market can then follow us.” “The passion that I have for this glorious marque” added Handel Lee, Chairman of Three on The Bund, “is both a source of pride and a stimulation to promote and develop Ducati’s entry into the Chinese market. I am honoured by this partnership and I am sure that Ducati will also have a great future in this country.” Carlo Alberto del Mastro, Shell Global Motorcycle Oil Brand and Sponsorship Manager: ‘For Shell, China is a very important country – and to be able to accompany Ducati with their first steps in to this market is a fantastic opportunity. Just like Ducati, we test our products on the race track and then, once they have been proven in the toughest environment – MotoGP, we use the technology in our production Shell Advance motorcycle oil. This means you get more life from your bike with Shell Advance and Ducati.
Ford Quality Checked Funds 30 Sections Of Airfence For AMA National Dirt Track Races Promoted By IMDA
Ford Quality Checked/AMA Flat Track Series Promoters Receive Access To Airfence Deal between Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned program and the Illinois Motorcycle Dealers Association (IMDA) provides access of revolutionary Airfence protection systems to promoters of Ford QC/AMA Flat Track Series ANN ARBOR, Mich., (April 29, 2005) In an effort to improve safety and bolster relations between the sport of flat track’s sponsors, promoters and racers, the Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned program title sponsor of the 2005 AMA Flat Track Series announced today it has arranged a sizable grant for the Illinois Motorcycle Dealers Association (IMDA) in order to purchase the world renown Airfence brand safety barrier for flat track racing. The Ford Quality Checked grant to the IMDA, a not-for-profit trade association for the Illinois motorcycle dealers, comes in addition to the high accordance with safety that the IMDA has been known for, including utilizing existing Airfence modules (on loan from the AMA) and providing additional safety measures above and beyond that which the rules dictate. “Thanks to the Ford Quality Checked ‘Rider Safety Improvement’ grant the IMDA has purchased 30 Airfence modules to be used at the Springfield Mile and DuQuoin Mile,” said Tommra Luparell, Executive Director of the IMDA. “That is twice the number of Airfence modules that has ever been used in the history of flat track racing.” According to its website, Airfence Safety Systems is an Australian-based, global company committed to providing the highest quality, affordable and practical safety systems for motor (and other) sports, particularly motorcycle racing. “As the series sponsor Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned wanted to strengthen our partnership with the AMA and series promoters by simultaneously taking steps to assist the series financially while also improving rider safety,” said Mike Dennis, Ford’s Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned Program Manager. “We have developed an excellent working relationship with the IMDA through our involvement with the flat track series over the past three years and are looking forward to the positive feedback from the riders on the series’ access to the additional Airfence.” Added series racer Henry Wiles, who got a first-hand look at how the Airfence comes into play: “After experiencing the Airfence close up at high speeds, I am very grateful it was there. Without it I could have suffered multiple broken bones, along with a very lengthy hospital stay. Instead I got up and walked away.” Note: The Airfence is scheduled to arrive from Australia (where it is constructed) in time for the May 29th race at Springfield. (Roadracingworld.com Editorial Note: Wiles hit one 14 sections of Airfence provided by the Roadracing World Action Fund for deployment by AMA Pro Racing, during the last AMA Springfield Mile weekend.)
Mladin, Eric Bostrom Fastest In First AMA Superbike Practice At California Speedway
Provisional Friday AMA Superbike Practice Times: 1. Mat Mladin, Suzuki, 1:25.413 2. Eric Bostrom, Ducati, 1:25.609 3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:25.956 4. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:25.998 5. Neil Hodgson, Ducati, 1:26.548 6. Miguel Duhamel, Honda, 1:26.910 7. Josh Hayes, Kawasaki, 1:27.180 8. Marty Craggill, Suzuki, 1:27.451 9. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:28.010 10. Jake Zemke, Honda, 1:28.099 11. John Haner, Suzuki, 1:28.249 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:28.294 13. Jake Holden, Suzuki, 1:28.340 14. Kurtis Roberts, Honda, 1:28.417 15. Eric Wood, Suzuki, 1:28.505 16. Larry Pegram, Honda, 1:28.898 17. Jeff Tigert, Honda, 1:28.916 18. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:28.944 19. Heath Small, Yamaha, 1:29.097 20. Cory West, Suzuki, 1:29.307 21. Jeremy Toye, Honda, 1:29.392 22. Clint McBain, Suzuki, 1:29.507 23. Scott Jensen, Suzuki, 1:29.614 24. Matt Lynn, Suzuki, 1:29.640 25. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki, 1:29.779 26. Tony Meiring, Suzuki, 1:29.931 27. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:30.327 28. Brent George, Suzuki, 1:30.431 29. Mark Ledesma, Suzuki, 1:30.467 30. Lee Acree, Suzuki, 1:30.482 31. Jason Curtis, Suzuki, 1:30.809 32. J.J. Roetlin, Suzuki, 1:31.317 33. David Bell, Suzuki, 1:32.110 34. Dean Mizdal, Suzuki, 1:32.733 35. C.R. Gittere, Suzuki, 1:32.814 36. David Sanders, Suzuki, 1:33.006 37. Mike Sullivan, Yamaha, 1:33.301 38. Taylor Knapp, Yamaha, 1:33.610 39. Reno Karimian, Suzuki, 1:34.233 40. Mark Simon, Suzuki, 1:34.480 41. James Kerker, Honda, 1:35.145 42. Peter Holzinger, Suzuki, 1:35.781
Updated Post: DiSalvo Fastest In Problem-filled Friday Morning AMA Supersport At Fontana
Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was the fastest rider in Friday morning AMA Supersport practice at California Speedway with a time of 1:28.013 on his YZF-R6. The practice was stopped three times. The first stoppage was due to oil put down by the Yamaha of J.C. Gibbs. The oil drain plug of Gibbs’ YZF-R6 appeared to have come loose, according to AMA Pro Racing Superbike Series Manager Ron Barrick. The second stoppage was caused by Jeremiah Johnson’s crash in the turn one chicane. Johnson was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center with shoulder pain. The final stoppage was caused by Damon Buckmaster, who crashed his factory Yamaha YZF-R6 at the exit of the turn one chicane. Buckmaster was not injured in the lowside crash, which may have resulted from the Australian losing traction on a helmet faceshield tear-off lying on the track. Provisional Friday Morning AMA Supersport Practice Times: 1. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:28.013 2. Damon Buckimaster, Yamaha, 1:28.355 3. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:28.519 4. Roger Lee Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:28.905 5. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:29.014 6. Ben Spies, Suzuki, 1:29.374 7. Ben Attard, Kawasaki, 1:29.419 8. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:29.582 9. Robert Jensen, Yamaha, 1:29.916 10. Chris Peris, Yamaha, 1:30.503 11. Danny Eslick, Suzuki, 1:30.629 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:30.629 13. Nicky Moore, Yamaha, 1:31.011 14. Blake Young, Suzuki, 1:31.242 15. Matt Furtek, Kawasaki, 1:31.837 16. Chris Siglin, Suzuki, 1:32.016 17. Barrett Long, Yamaha, 1:32.502 18. Jim Wood, Kawasaki, 1:32.548 19. Nathan Hester, Yamaha, 1:32.911 20. Jeremiah Johnson, Suzuki, 1:33.231
Updated Post: Hacking Won AMA Supersport Race At Barber Using WP Fork Internals
Yamaha’s Jamie Hacking used WP fork internals to win the AMA Supersport race at Barber Motorsports Park. “We’re just exploring other avenues,” Tom Halverson, manager of the factory Yamaha Supersport team, told Roadracingworld.com during Friday morning practice at California Speedway. “Our goal is to win races, of course, and we want the best equipment on the bikes to do that. Right now we don’t have a suspension sponsor. So we’re just trying to see if we’re missing something or if we can learn something and go from there.” Several of the Yamaha YZF-R6s of the factory Supersport team and the YZF-R1s of the Graves Yamaha Superstock team, both long-time users of Ohlins components, were equipped with WP components for Hacking, Damon Buckmaster and Aaron Gobert to try Friday morning at California Speedway. Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo, however, continues to stay with Ohlins suspension on his bikes. Halverson said it is up to each of his four riders to decide whether they want to stay with Ohlins suspension components or switch to WP. Halverson said Yamaha was attracted to WP after Yamaha’s World Supersport team began using WP products successfully. Yamaha’s AMA teams first tried the products on its Superstock bikes while testing at Barber in March, and some of the Yamaha riders used WP components on their bikes during the Barber race weekend, including Hacking.
DiSalvo Heads Friday Morning AMA Superstock Practice In California
Provisional Friday Morning AMA Superstock Practice Times: 1. Jason DiSalvo, Yamaha, 1:25.968 2. Jamie Hacking, Yamaha, 1:26.569 3. Aaron Yates, Suzuki, 1:26.740 4. Damon Buckmaster, Yamaha, 1:27.024 5. Aaron Gobert, Yamaha, 1:27.067 6. Jake Holden, Suzuki, 1:27.403 7. Roger Lee Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:27.407 8. Tommy Hayden, Kawasaki, 1:27.409 9. Steve Rapp, Suzuki, 1:27.553 10. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki, 1:27.624 11. Tony Meiring, Suzuki, 1:27.737 12. Geoff May, Suzuki, 1:28.021 13. Nicky Moore, Yamaha, 1:28.229 14. John Haner, Suzuki, 1:28.342 15. Blake Young, Suzuki, 1:29.357 16. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki, 1:29.359 17. Matt Lynn, Suzuki, 1:29.670 18. Eric Wood, Suzuki, 1:29.739 19. Jimmy Moore, Suzuki, 1:29.939 20. Brent George, Suzuki, 1:30.559