From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

Suzuki Lightning Nationals doubleheader at VIR to close 2004 AMA Chevrolet Superbike Championship

Mladin poised to win his fifth championship

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Oct. 1, 2004) — Virginia International Raceway will host the final two rounds of the AMA Chevrolet Superbike Championship on Oct. 9-10 in Alton, Va. The event, originally scheduled for Sept. 17-19, was postponed due to complications from Hurricane Ivan. The 2004 AMA Superbike Championship is up for grabs and four-time champ Mat Mladin, the Yoshimura Suzuki ace, is hoping to once again take home the championship trophy.

Three riders, Mladin along with Honda riders Jake Zemke and Miguel Duhamel, are still in the hunt for this year’s AMA Superbike Championship, but it is Mladin who is clearly in control. A win in race one of the weekend’s doubleheader would clinch the title for Mladin and give him an unprecedented fifth AMA Superbike Championship. Mladin can already lay claim to being the only rider in the history of the series to win four championships and is also the all-times wins leader.

Mladin has praised his Yoshimura Suzuki team for making late-season improvements on his GSX-R1000 that gave him the edge over the newer-generation Hondas of Zemke and Duhamel. Those improvements added up to a Mladin sweep at the last event; the doubleheader at Road Atlanta in September. Those victories boosted his series lead from 19 points to a solid 42 coming into the final event of the year. Mladin was also reportedly happy with the results of a recent test session at VIR and is confident coming in the event.

Mladin has one more incentive at VIR. A pair of wins would give him 10 victories on the season. That would tie the long-standing record held by Motorcycle Hall of Famer Fred Merkel, who won 10 rounds in 1984 while riding for Honda.

Zemke comes into Virginia happy about his performance in his first full year of AMA Superbike racing.

“Things probably have gone about like I expected,” said the former flat track racer. “Of course, I would have been a little happier if I were leading the series, but realistically it’s been a good first season and I’ll give it everything I have at VIR. The chances [of winning the championship] are slim, but unexpected things are known to happen in racing so I’m going in with a positive outlook.”

1995 AMA Superbike Champion Miguel Duhamel was squarely in the title chase until a crash at Mid-Ohio in July dropped him to third. Duhamel would still like to put a couple of victories in the books at VIR so he could end the season tied with Mladin on the all-time AMA Superbike wins list. Mladin has 32-career AMA Superbike victories to Duhamel’s 30.

Ducati will add a taste of international flare to VIR by entering World Superbike Series leader Regis Laconi and Lorenzo Lanzi to race alongside Eric Bostrom in the season finale. Had the race been run as originally scheduled, Bostrom would have been absent due to injury. The postponement gave him extra time to recuperate. With three bikes entered, Ducati is obviously looking to make a statement at VIR.

Last year’s AMA Superbike Rookie of the Year Geoff May is on track to earn the highest year-end ranking in AMA Superbike by a privateer rider since Dale Quarterley finished fifth in 1995. May has tallied 13 top-10 finishes this year on his Team Prieto Racing Suzuki, including a season best fifth at California Speedway in April.

VIR’s Suzuki Lightning Nationals doubleheader AMA Superbike races will be shown back-to-back on SPEED Channel starting at 12 p.m. Eastern on Tuesday, Oct. 19, as part of the network’s Two Wheel Tuesday lineup. For additional information on the event contact VIR at (434) 822-7700 of visit the website www.virclub.com .

Schedule of Events

AMA Chevrolet Superbike Championship

Presented by Parts Unlimited

Suzuki Lightning Nationals

Virginia International Raceway – October 9-10, 2004



Friday, Oct. 8

3:00 – 7:00 – Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests

6:30 – Post-entry Closed for all Classes

3:00 – 7:00 – Tech Inspection

Saturday, Oct. 9

7:30 – 3:00 – Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests

8:00 – 5:00 – Tech Inspection

8:00 – 8:30 – AMA Repsol Superstock Practice

8:35 – 9:05 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Practice

9:10 – 9:40 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Practice

9:45 – 10:15 – Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Practice

10:20 – 10:50 – AMA Repsol Superstock Practice

10:55 – 11:25 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Practice

11:30 – 12:00 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Practice

12:05 – 12:35 – Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Practice

12:35 – 1:25 – Lunch Break

12:45 – Rider Briefing

1:25 – 1:50 – AMA Repsol Superstock Qualifying Group 1

1:55 – 2:20 – AMA Repsol Superstock Qualifying Group 2

2:25 – 2:50 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Qualifying Group 1

2:55 – 3:20 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Qualifying Group 2

3:25 – 3:50 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Qualifying Group 1

3:55 – 4:20 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Qualifying Group 2

4:35 – AMA Repsol Superstock Race (60k – 17 laps)

Sunday, Oct. 10

8:30 – 12:00 – Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests

9:00 – Tech Inspection Opens

9:00 – 9:20 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Practice

9:25 – 9:45 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets Practice

9:55 – 10:25 – Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Qualifying Group 1

10:30 – 11:00 – Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Qualifying Group 2

11:00 – 12:00 – Lunch Break

11:20 – Nondenominational Chapel Service

12:00 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Race 1 (100K – 28 laps)

1:15 – Pro Honda Oils Supersport Championship presented by Shoei Helmets (60k – 17 laps)

2:30 – Chevrolet Superbike Championship presented by Parts Unlimited Race 2 (100k – 28 laps)

3:45 – Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Race (60k – 17 laps)

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing Inc.

Sebastien Gimbert, the “unknown” privateer who is on provisional pole for World Superbike at Magny-Cours, is the current Endurance World Champion, riding for the GMT94 team.

Gimbert joined the World Endurance series in 2001 after spending three years chasing the Grand Prix circuit. Gimbert rode a V-Twin Honda in the 1998, 1999, and 2000 500cc Grand Prix World Championships for the French Team Tecmas. In 2000 Gimbert raced both 500cc GP and 250cc GP.

From 2001 to 2004 Gimbert rode for Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha in the Endurance World Championship, finally winning the title with Guyot Motor Team 94(GMT94)this year.

From a press release issued by FG Sport Group:

WILDCARD DELIGHT ON DAY ONE AT MAGNY COURS

GLORIOUS GIMBERT: Local hot-shot Sebastien Gimbert, following on from his impressive showings at the Brands Hatch round two months ago, propelled himself to the top of the provisional qualifying sheets at Magny Cours. Riding in his home race, Gimbert’s machine is a Yamaha France YZF-R1, a true privateer entry. His time of 1:42.599 beat even the best of the factory Ducatis in this most important round of the year.

FILA FORZA: Despite some ups and downs the Ducati Fila pairing of Regis Laconi and James Toseland enter the final round of the championship in first and second place respectively. After one day in France, and with the benefit of a pre-race test session behind them earlier in the year, Laconi and Toseland are neck and neck, in both championship and qualification times. Only 0.026 seconds separates Toseland from provisional pole, with Laconi only 0.87 seconds from his countryman Gimbert.

MARTIN INVASION: Aussie privateer Steve Martin worked hard on his set-up to take the final slot on the overnight front row, another high point in the season of the DFX Ducati squad. His team-mate Marco Borciani secured ninth fastest time of the day.

TRIPLE TICKLE: Foggy Petronas duo Chris Walker (Foggy Petronas FP-1) and Troy Corser (Foggy Petronas FP-1) were competitive during the opening exchanges, their unique three-cylinder machines pushing them up the order, Corser going fifth fastest and running only 0.233 seconds from the fastest time of the day. Walker was less than half a second shy of provisional pole, making the most of the experience gained from testing at Magny Cours.

HONDA HANGS TOUGH: Chris Vermeulen (Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR), his Ten Kate Team and the CBR1000RR Honda have had their work cut out for them on the first day of qualifying at each round this year, as all are novices in the premier SBK class. The opening day at Magny Cours was a challenging experience for Vermeulen and co, as the 22-year-old Aussie rider is still carrying wrist, hip and ankle injuries from Imola, and the whole team is trying to cure a lack of rear end traction. Nonetheless Vermeulen went seventh fastest, after his first run out on a qualifying rear tyre.

INCLEMENT WEATHER: Ivan Clementi continued his recent run of good form on the Bertocchi Kawasaki ZX-10, going eighth fastest on day one, and good enough to be the first Kawasaki finisher. Borciani in ninth was still better off than the toiling Pierfrancesco Chili (PSG-1 Ducati).

LEON LIFT: With Noriyuki Haga somewhat subdued in 12th place, Leon Haslam managed to outdistance him by a small margin to secure 11th place on his Renegade Ducati Koji 999R. Haga is the fourth rider in with a chance of the championship, although Laconi, Toseland and Vermeulen have to go experience some devastating bad luck for Haga to come close to toppling any of them.

McCOY ONLY 13TH: After a couple of relatively happy outings at Imola last week, Garry McCoy (Ducati Scuderia Caracchi 999RS) bumped to 13th after day one in France. The final three riders in Superpole, for the time being at least, are Lucio Pedercini, Piergiorgio Bontempi and Sergio Fuertes

SUPERSPORT: Crowned Champion last weekend, Karl Muggeridge (Ten Kate Honda CBR600RR), had to give best in France to his fellow countryman, Kevin Curtain (Yamaha Motor Germany YZF-R6). Curtain, out to defend his overall championship position, was just 0.031 seconds above Muggeridge, but ahead nonetheless. Third fastest rider was expert Klaffi Honda exponent Sebastien Charpentier, another top rider at Magny Cours with French blood rampaging through his veins. Ten Kate Honda rider Broc Parkes was fourth fastest, still to find a perfect set-up on his CBR.
The Yamaha Italia machine of Jurgen van den Goorbergh took the first position of the provisional second row, with the Breil Ducati 749R of Lorenzo Lanzi in sixth.

SUPERSTOCK: With Gianluca Vizziello, the championship leader ruled out of the race due to injures sustained at Imola, his team-mate and only potential championship nemesis, Lorenzo Alfonsi was second fastest. A repeat of this placing in the race would make Alfonsi champion, anything less would give Vizziello the spoils. Fastest man on the day was Yamaha Motor Germany rider, Kenan Sofuoglu. All classes have one more regulation qualifying session, before the races commence on Sunday 3 October.



More, from a press release issued by Foggy Petronas Racing:

FPR riders on the pace in France

Foggy PETRONAS Racing riders Troy Corser and Chris Walker enjoyed a promising opening day of qualifying for the final round of the Superbike World Championship at Magny-Cours, France.

Just two tenths of a second separated the FPR men in fifth and sixth places after the Friday afternoon qualifying. And, encouragingly, Troy was just another quarter of a second behind pacesetter Sebastien Gimbert, a local French wild card on a Yamaha YZF R1.

Both Troy and Chris were able to try out a new specification engine in the PETRONAS FP1, designed to reduce inertia, and reported the desired increased torque in bettering their times from a recent test at the French circuit. However, this was at the expense of some top end power, a factor most relevant through the first sector in the drive out of Estoril and up the Golf straight.

Chris said: “I broke down on the bike that I set my best morning time and the new engine felt different so it took a few laps to get used to. And I was disappointed not to have gone a bit faster. I should have been doing the time I did on a qualifier on race tyres. We still need to look at turning in on the brakes and work on the chatter I’m still experiencing. But I am happy because it’s the best position I have been for a while.”

Troy, third in the ideal times of combined best sector splits, said: “I concentrated on the new engine this afternoon. The acceleration was a lot stronger bottom to mid-range but we lost something off the top end. We will try to make the gearing a bit longer before it peaks out but that might mean we lose some of the torque. The bikes are handling well and we haven’t changed too much. The front tyre is okay and the new rear tyre we have tried is not too different from the one we found at the test. I made a small mistake in my fastest lap so to be 0.2 off pole is pretty encouraging and I was doing nearly the same time on race tyres as I did on a qualifier.”

Friday qualifying times, Superbike World Championship, round 11, Magny-Cours: 1 Gimbert 1:42.599; 2 Toseland 1:42.625; 3 Laconi 1:42.686; 4 Martin 1:42.832; 5 Corser 1:42.855; 6 Walker 1:43.082; 7 Vermeulen 1:43.205; 8 Clementi 1:43.235; 9 Borciani 1:43.367; 10 Chili 1:43.443

Friday morning free practice times: 1 Laconi (Ducati Fila) 1:42.554; 2 Toseland (Ducati Fila) 1:42.981; 3 Gimbert (Yamaha France) 1:43.051; 4 Martin (DFX) 1:43.085; 5 Corser (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:43.182; 6 Chili (PSG-1) 1:43.430; 7 Haga (Renegade Ducati) 1:43.673; 8 Walker (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 1:43.674; 9 Clementi (Kawasaki Bertocchi) 1:43.827; 10 Vermeulen (Ten Kate Honda) 1:44.174



More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

PROVISIONAL FRONT ROW FOR TOSELAND AND LACONI (DUCATI FILA) IN OPENING WSBK SESSION AT MAGNY-COURS

Magny-Cours (France), 1 October 2004: Both Ducati Fila title chasers James Toseland and Regis Laconi placed their Ducati 999 F04 on the provisional front row of the grid for the World Superbike championship finale at Magny-Cours. Chris Vermeulen (Honda), the only other real challenger for the title, could only manage seventh quickest time, while provisional pole went to local rider and Bol d’Or racer Sebastien Gimbert (Yamaha)

Toseland’s time of 1’42.635 was just a fraction away from Gimbert’s pole mark, but the 23-year-old from Sheffield was more than pleased with his performance. “It was a good qualifying session today, nice and consistent. We’ve made a few changes to the bike, the main problem at the moment is the tyre is moving on the rim and that is stopping me doing more laps than I want to. We’re running a new rear tyre here and it looks like it’s going to be a good one so I want to do as many laps as possible on it, but unfortunately I haven’t been able to do that today.

“We’re not far away, we just need a bit of tweaking here and there. It’s a technical circuit, and it’s especially difficult to get round the tight hairpins, because the lean angle is so sharp. You’re going that slow that you need to have a lot of momentum through those curves. It’s just a question of concentration really this weekend because every lap counts”.

Team-mate Regis Laconi was also within one tenth of a second of Gimbert’s time, but he was not entirely satisfied with the set-up on his 999. “I think I am just not entirely happy about the feeling on the bike” he said. “We tried to change it to improve but we didn’t find the right setting today so we just tried to learn and see what’s happening with the tyres.

“My position is OK and the lap times are very close. I made the fastest lap with the race tyre, I was surprised about that while with the qualifying tyre I was slower. It looks like it was not only for me. It’s tight at the top, but we must try and do something better for tomorrow.”

TIMES: 1. Gimbert (Yamaha) 1’42.599; 2. Toseland (Ducati Fila) 1’42.625; 3. Laconi (Ducati Fila) 1’42.686; 4. Martin (DFX Ducati) 1’42.832; 5. Corser (Petronas) 1’42.855; 6. Walker (Petronas) 1’43.082; 7. Vermeulen (Honda) 1’43.205; 8. Clementi (Kawasaki) 1’43.235; etc.

SIXTH QUICKEST TIME FOR LANZI (DUCATI BREIL) IN MAGNY-COURS OPENING SESSION

Magny-Cours (France), 1 October 2004: Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati Breil) produced another convincing performance in Friday qualifying for the final round of the World Supersport championship at Magny-Cours with sixth quickest time. The 22-year-old Italian, who finished just off the podium in last week’s Imola race, kept the momentum flowing for the Ducati Breil team around the 4.411 km circuit, and his performance today puts him on course to end the season with another positive result.

“Considering the fact that we have never tested on this circuit with this bike, we are better placed than usual for Friday” declared Lorenzo.

“Furthermore I was almost always up against traffic on my quick laps, so I’m sure I could have shaved a few tenths off here and there. All things considered, we’re not far away from the leaders.

“The red flags also came out for another bike that blew its engine, leaving oil all over the track, which after that was a bit slower. Despite everything therefore I’m sure I could have improved my time. We’ve still got tomorrow, but I am pleased, my Ducati Breil team has worked well and the 749R is going well.

“We are improving race after race and that’s the most important thing at this end of the season” concluded Lanzi.

TIMES: 1. Curtain (Yamaha) 1’44.199; 2. Muggeridge (Honda) 1’44.230; 3. Charpentier (Honda) 1’44.579; 4. Parkes (Honda) 1’44.954; 5. VD Goorbergh (Yamaha) 1’45.341; 6. Lanzi (Ducati Breil) 1’45.370; 7. Foret (Yamaha) 1’45.481; 8. Fabrizio (Honda) 1’45.750; etc.


More, from a press release issued by Belgarda Yamaha:

Yamaha Racing
Yamaha Italia World Supersport Team Newsletter
Date: Friday, October 1st 2004
Circuit: Magny Cours, m. 4.411
Friday Qualifying
Weather: dry, sunny/cloudy Temperature: air 22° track 30°
Crowd: 3.000

JURGEN DEFIES PAIN

Yamaha Racing Italia rider Jurgen van den Goorbergh rode through the pain barrier to finish fifth quickest at the end of the first day of qualifying at Magny-Cours, France. The Dutchman is suffering a reoccurrence of the discomfort he experienced at Imola, but is determined to continue riding this weekend. His team mates Fabien Foret and Andrew Pitt ended the day with the seventh and ninth fastest times, but both know that they can improve their positions tomorrow. Aussie Kevin Curtain (Yamaha) posted the day’s fastest lap, with a time of 1’44.199. Second is newly-crowned Supersport World Champion Karl Muggeridge, with fellow Honda riders Sebastien Charpentier and Broc Parkes third and fourth.

JURGEN VAN DEN GOORBERGH – 5th, 1’45.341

My physical condition is not so good at the moment (a bit like Imola last week) so, after the weekend, I will undergo an intensive medical check-up. In the meantime, I am trying to concentrate on riding my bike and so far it is pretty good. For the next two sessions though, we will make some changes and see how much we can improve it.

FABIEN FORET – 7th, 1’45.481

I think that this has been a really unlucky season for me and I hope it ends soon. I was very fast today when Chambon’s bike blew up in front of me and that cost me quite a bit of time. After what I have gone through this year, I want to end this season in style. I won the Bol d’Or 24 hours here on a Yamaha in 2000, so I would like to be on the podium again – on Sunday.

ANDREW PITT – 9th, 1’45.755

This is my first time at the track, so all I’ve really concentrated on today is learning my way round and trying to make some small adjustments to the bike.

Friday qualifying

1 Curtain (Aus-Yamaha) 1’44.199, 2 Muggeridge (Aus-Honda) 1’44.230, 3 Charpentier (Fra-Honda) 1’44.579, 4 Parkes (Aus-Honda) 1’44.954, 5 VAN DEN GOORBERGH (NL-YAMAHA RACING ITALIA) 1’45.341, 6 Lanzi (Ita-Ducati) 1’45.370, 7 FORET (Fra-YAMAHA RACING ITALIA) 1’45.481, 8 Fabrizio (Ita-Honda) 1’45.750, 9 PITT (AUS-YAMAHA RACING ITALIA) 1’45.755, 10 Chambon (Fra-Suzuki) 1’46.027, 11 Baiocco (Ita-Yamaha) 1’46.265


More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

SET-UP PROBLEMS HAMPER ALSTARE
Team Suzuki Press Office – October 1, 2004.

Team Alstare Corona Extra riders Stephane Chambon and Katsuaki Fujiwara placed 10th and 14th in today’s first qualifying session for the final World Supersport round at Magny Cours in France after struggling with the set-up on their GSX-R600s.

But the duo and their technicians, who have a realistic chance of taking fifth and sixth in the series, will be working into the night in the hope of finding an ideal race specification before tomorrow’s final qualifying session.

Aussie Kevin Curtain took provisional pole position today with Karl Muggeridge, Sebastien Charpentier and Broc Parkes filling the next three places.

STEPHANE CHAMBON – 10th, 1:46.027:

“I think I probably could’ve gone a bit faster if I did not have the problem with one engine. I was happier on that bike, so maybe I could have gone quicker. The story of practice here is similar to the first days at the other rounds. It has been a hard season for us all, but I’d still like a good result to end it on a positive note.”

KATSUAKI FUJIWARA – 14th, 1:46.492:

“I am not so happy to only be 14th quickest so far. Today I had a few problems with the rear suspension and also the set-up of the bike and that meant I could not push as hard as I wanted to. We’ll change quite a few things tomorrow and I hope we can improve a lot.”

Friday qualifying:

1 Curtain (Aus-Yamaha) 1:44.199, 2 Muggeridge (Aus-Honda) 1:44.230, 3 Charpentier (F-Honda) 1:44.579, 4 Parkes (Aus-Honda) 1:44.954, 5 VD Goorbergh (NL-Yamaha) 1:45.341, 6 Lanzi (I-Ducati) 1:45.370, 7 Foret (F-Yamaha) 1:45.481, 8 Fabrizio (I-Honda) 1:45.750, 9 Pitt (Aus-Yamaha) 1:45.755, 10 CHAMBON (F-ALSTARE SUZUKI CORONA EXTRA) 1:46.027, 14 FUJIWARA (J-ALSTARE SUZUKI CORONA EXTRA) 1:46.492.


2004 European Superstock Championship Qualifying:

Team Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra riders Riccardo Chiarello and Vittorio Iannuzzo spent today learning the Magny Cours circuit and finished 13th and 15th fastest respectively in first qualifying.

Turkish rider Kenan Sofuoglu set the fastest time of the day with a lap of 1:44.844, ahead of Lorenzo Alfonsi, Didier Vankeymeulen and Gregory Fastre.


More, from a press release issued by Xerox Ducati Nortel Networks – Scuderia Caracchi:

No luck in the opening day at Magny Cours for Xerox Ducati Nortel Networks Team


Unlucky day the opening day of the final week end of 2004 World Superbike Championship on the 4311 meters of French circuit Magny Cours.. Garry McCoy spent most time to set the bike for a track absolutely new for him. Miguel Praia too looked for the best setting of the bike, looking at the final qualifying session tomorrow. An avoidable evaluation mistake put Gialuca Nannelli out of the fight just at the first lap of afternoon qualifying session, because a crash outing the Lycée corner after opening too quick the throttle when tyres were still cold.

“I’m not actually satisfied of the position I recorded in the provisional grid.” – said Garry McCoy at the end of the day. “I spent all today’s sessions to know the circuit, unknown for me. I like the track and during the afternoon session I improved my lap time of about a second. The bike performs well, I have no problem; there’s just something to improve at Adelaide hairpin, where I have still problems, but in this points the track has falling-in which makes the bike jumping and a loss of grip in the front. However the bike is quite OK and tomorrow we’ll try to do still better.”

Quite satisfied also Miguel Praia, despite a problem at the quickshifter.

“I focused myself in the setting and to learn the track.” – commented his performance Miguel Praia – “With the qualifying tyres I have a good feeling and I believe I found a good setting for tomorrow’s final qualifying. The track is difficult and new for me, but I like it, so I’m confident to improve my laptime tomorrow.”

I was angry with himself Gianluca Nannelli. The crash at the first day of final session took him away an hour of very important practice and, if tomorrow the weather could be bad everything will become very difficult.

“Which stupid mistake I’ve done!” – related a very disappointed Gianluca joining the pit after the crash. – “I just joined the track and I was riding slow when Laconi passed me, I put myself behind him and outing the corner I opened the throttle with too much decision, without any respect for the tyres which have not had time to warm, so I finish on the asphalt. In the morning, during the free practice session, the bike was running well, but became too light opening the throttle, so the team made an hard work before the qualifying session. Unfortunately this crash ruined all this work. Now I must hope that the weather will remain dry for tomorrow, because in this moment they didn’t record me any qualifying time.”


More, from a press release issued by Ten Kate Honda:

Vermeulen Seventh In Opening Magny Cours Exchanges

Chris Vermeulen (Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR) fought against the hand, ankle and hip injuries he suffered at the previous Imola round during the first day of Magny Cours qualifying, but still finished strongly inside the top ten fastest times of the day. Working to improve rear end traction during corner exit, the team has found the final venue of Magny Cours a real challenge, but one they are confident of conquering before raceday. His time of 1’43.205s compared well with that of surprise fastest rider, Sebastien Gimbert (Yamaha), who set a 1’42.599s lap on his privateer machine.

Vermeulen is fully aware that his pre-race preparations have been compromised by his injuries, and the fact that all his main rivals for the championship itself have tested at Magny Cours this year. Vermeulen is going for the championship title this season, currently 13 points from leader Regis Laconi, and nine from second place rider James Toseland.

Said Vermeulen, “My hand is a little sore but it’s not my biggest problem. My arm is a bit painful under braking but the biggest thing is trying to get the bike working properly. I don’t have a lot of rear traction and we have tried lots of different tyres. Now we have to change the bike to make it work for a tyre. It’s worse out of the slower turns. It’s such a different track and it’s a shame we didn’t get the chance to test here. But what the team is very good at is turning the bike around between Friday and raceday. I’ve got confidence in them.”

Team Manager Ronald Ten Kate, was justifiably satisfied with his team’s best efforts, stated “We’re putting a big effort in to improve the times. We are far from satisfied now, but Chris’s body is reacting fairly well now he has got into the swing of it after a couple of sessions. Adrenaline is taking over. We will be working hard to make up the gap to the guys in front, who have all tested here this year.”

Final qualifying and Superpole take place on Saturday 25th September.

World Superbike Championship
Round 11 / Magny Cours, France
1 – 3 October 2004
1. S. Gimbert, FRA Yamaha YZF R1, 1’42.599
2. J. Toseland, GBR, Ducati 999 F04, 1’42.625
3. R. Laconi, FRA, Ducati 999 F04, 1’42.686
4. S. Martin, AUS, Ducati 999 RS, 1’42.832
5. T. Corser, AUS, Petronas FP1, 1’42.855
6. C. Walker, GBR, Petronas FP1, 1’43. 082
7. C. Vermeulen, AUS, Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR, 1’43.205
8. I. Clementi, ITA, Kawasaki ZX 10, 1’43.235
9. M. Borciani, ITA, Ducati 999 RS, 1’43.367
10. P. Chili, ITA, Ducati 998 RS, 1’43.443




Muggeridge Second and Parkes Fourth After One Day

Karl Muggeridge (Ten Kate Honda CBR600RR) had to leave it late in the first timed session to take second fastest time of the day, with his team-mate Broc Parkes (Ten Kate Honda CBR600RR) in fourth place overall. The session itself was interrupted with just over ten minutes left to run, after another rider’s blown engine left oil on the track.

Muggeridge, the new World Champion in Supersport, had to work his way through a tough first couple of sessions, to set a time of 1’44.230s, only 0.031 seconds from provisional pole man Kevin Curtain (Yamaha). Sebastien Charpentier, on home tarmac, was third fastest, with Parkes’ 1’44.954s good enough for fourth on the provisional grid.

Magny Cours, despite the annoyance of the oil spill, was a warm and welcoming place compared to last year, when low temperatures contrasted with the pleasant 22°C which was experienced this afternoon.

Said Muggeridge of the first day, “I went a bit faster at the very end and that was good, especially because of the problem of oil on the track. I was trying to make sure there was no oil anywhere else and with ten minutes left, there were a lot of people all revved up to go. We had a few things go wrong this morning, and that cost us a lot of time. Even my kneeslider got ripped off at one stage. I don’t know how I managed to set 14 laps this morning – I must have been in and out 14 times to adjust settings and so on. We haven’t quite managed to get the bike to work properly over the bumps, but we will, and when we do it will be really good.”

Parkes was disappointed to be fast early on and then lose some pace in the later stages. “I had a few problems towards the end of the session and I had hoped for a bit better in terms of the lap time. The oil spill on the track did not help and it made me a bit hesitant. The bike feels pretty good and I didn’t change it much from the Imola race. I put in the same times on a race tyre as I did on the softer one I used at the end so I think there is a fair bit still to come.”

Team Manager Ronald Ten Kate made it plain that there was much still to do before raceday. “Both riders are on the front row which is good, but still we have quite a lot to do. The interruption did not help us in some regards but it did give us some time to discuss the set-up and how to make the bike work better. We gained a bit towards the end but the oil on the track did not make the circuit any faster. Nonetheless, I’m happy with our progress. We’ve found we cannot make practice with the same set up as last year. It was cold last year and the warmer conditions have made things much different now.”

World Supersport Championship
Round 10 / Magny Cours, France
1 – 3 October 2004
1. K. Curtain, AUS, Yamaha YZF R6, 1’44.199
2. K. Muggeridge, AUS, Ten Kate Honda CBR600RR, 1’44.230
3. S. Charpentier, FRA, Honda CBR600RR, 1’44.579
4. B. Parkes, AUS, Ten Kate Honda CBR600RR, 1’44.954
5. J. Vd. Goorbergh, NED, Yamaha YZF R6, 1’45.341
6. L. Lanzi, ITA, Ducati 749 R, 1’45.370
7. F. Foret, FRA, Yamaha YZF R6, 1’45.481
8. M. Fabrizio, ITA, Honda CBR600RR, 1’45.750
9. A. Pitt, AUS, Yamaha YZF R6, 1’45.755
10. S. Chambon, FRA, Suzuki GSX-R 600, 1’46.027


More, from a press release issued by Troy Corser’s publicist:

GOOD FIFTH ON DAY ONE!

Troy finished the first day of qualifying at Magny-Cours with the fifth fastest lap of the day and is happy about his prospects for tomorrow. Troy had one new specification engine in one of his two bikes today and was forced to give it a good run through when his other bike suffered throttle problems. The surprise of the day was that provisional pole was set by ‘wild card’ rider Sebastien Gimbert. Gimbert has a lot of track experience though, having recently completed a 24-hour race here, so he should know his way round a bit! Second quickest toady is Briton James Toseland, with his factory Ducati team mate Regis Laconi just behind. Completing the provisional front row is Aussie Steve Martin – also on a Ducati.

TROY – 5th, 1:42.855

One of my two bikes here have a new ‘spec’ engine and normally I would not be putting more miles on it then my regular bike. But my regular bike had some throttle problems, so I had to use the new ‘spec’ one instead. The acceleration felt stronger in both the bottom and mid-range, but it wasn’t as fast at the top end. So tomorrow we will try to make the gearing a bit longer before it peaks out, but we might lose some of the torque. The bike is handling well here and we have not changed too much today. The front tyre seems OK, and the rear tyre is not so different to the one we tested here not long ago. I’m pretty happy to be only two tenths of a second off pole and hope for further improvement tomorrow.

Friday qualifying
1 Gimbert (F-Yamaha) 1:42.599, 2 Toseland (GB-Ducati) 1:42.625, 3 Laconi (F-Ducati) 1:42.686, 4 Martin (Aus-Ducati) 1:42.832, 5 TROY CORSER (AUS-PETRONAS FP1) 1:42.855, 6 Walker (GB-Petronas FP1) 1:43.082, 7 Vermeulen (Aus-Honda) 1:43.205, 8 Clementi (I-Kawasaki) 1:43.235, 9 Borciani (I-Ducati) 1:43.367, 10 Chili (I-Ducati) 1:43.443

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Final Qualifying Times:

250cc GP:

1. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 2:02.710
2. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda, 2:03.181
3. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 2:03.894
4. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 2:04.385
5. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 2:04.391
6. Hiroshi AOYAMA, Honda, 2:04.568
7. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 2:04.837
8. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 2:05.364
9. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 2:05.998
10. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 2:06.244
11. Alex DEBON, Honda, 2:06.425
12. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 2:06.513
13. Chaz DAVIES, Aprilia, 2:06.531
14. Joan OLIVE, Aprilia, 2:06.817
15. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 2:06.842
16. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 2:06.862
17. Jakub SMRZ, Honda, 2:06.971
18. Erwan NIGON, Aprilia, 2:07.067
19. Dirk HEIDOLF, Aprilia, 2:07.180
20. Naoki MATSUDO, Yamaha, 2:07.290


125cc GP:

1. Jorge LORENZO, Derbi, 2:09.644
2. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 2:09.928
3. Steve JENKNER, Aprilia, 2:10.496
4. Casey STONER, KTM, 2:10.519
5. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 2:10.807
6. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 2:10.875
7. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:10.956
8. Julian SIMON, Honda, 2:11.466
9. Mirko GIANSANTI, Aprilia, 2:11.615
10. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 2:11.784
11. Simone CORSI, Honda, 2:11.878
12. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 2:11.977
13. Thomas LUTHI, Honda, 2:12.067
14. Hector BARBERA, Aprilia, 2:12.139
15. Mattia PASINI, Aprilia, 2:12.408

From a press release issued by MS Aprilia:


Garry McCoy joins Aprilia for last three races

AUSTRALIAN Garry McCoy will join the MS Aprilia Racing team for the final three rounds of the 2004 MotoGP world championship.

McCoy will make his debut on the Cube three-cylinder at next weekend’s Malaysian GP at Sepang, substituting for injured British rider Shane Byrne, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season through injury. McCoy will also appear in front of his home crowd at Phillip Island’s Australian GP on October 17 and at the season’s final race in Valencia, Spain.

Famous for his spectacular sliding riding style, McCoy brings a wealth of world championship experience with him. He won his first premier class GP at the Welkom circuit in South Africa in 2000, and went onto claim two more victories in Estoril and Valencia in the same season. He eventually finished fifth in the overall world 500 championship standings in 2000. He also claimed four other premier class podiums, adding to his two wins in the world 125 championship.

McCoy has spent the 2004 season riding in the World Superbike championship, but with the series reaching its conclusion this weekend in France, McCoy is available to partner Jeremy McWilliams for the rest of the season. McCoy will work with Byrne’s team, led by Giacomo Guidotti.

Aprilia racing chief Jan Witteveen said: “Garry contacted us after Japan and from that moment we were seriously considering him for a ride on the RS Cube. He brings with him great quality, but he is also the only rider who has no contract problems with the World Superbike championship finishing on Sunday. We are looking forward to working with him because we know he is a rider of great talent.”

Byrne underwent a successful two-hour operation yesterday in San Marino to repair ligament and scaphoid bone damage to his left wrist. Byrne damaged the wrist in a crash at the Czech Republic GP back in August, and after finishing 13th at the Twin Ring Motegi GP in Japan last month, further medical checks revealed a broken scaphoid bone and serious ligament damage.

Doctor Soragni and GP Doctor Claudio Costa carried out the operation. Byrne is now beginning a two-month rehabilitation and he will be able to commence an intensive course of physiotherapy in three weeks time in a bid to be fit for winter testing.

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Proton Team KR MotoGP racer Kurtis Roberts has ended his management agreement with International Racers, Inc.

According to Roberts, he sent a letter to the management company earlier this week officially ending their relationship.

Roberts has been with International Racers, Inc. for his entire professional racing career.

He said he has not settled on a new manager or management team and is temporarily representing himself.

When asked why he ended the relationship, Roberts told Roadracingworld.com, “There were some things promised to me in this year’s deal that did not come through.”

International Racers, Inc., founded by Gary Howard, also represents Roberts’ father, Kenny Leroy Roberts, Roberts’ brother, Kenny Lee Roberts, and Proton Team KR, among others.

A call by Roadracingworld.com to the Irvine, California offices of International Racers, Inc. was not answered Friday afternoon.

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Final MotoGP Qualifying Results:

1. Carlos CHECA, Yamaha, 1:58.988
2. Alex BARROS, Honda, 1:59.119
3. Sete GIBERNAU, Honda, 1:59.126
4. Nicky HAYDEN, Honda, 1:59.187
5. Shinya NAKANO, Kawasaki, 1:59.232
6. Loris CAPIROSSI, Ducati, 1:59.281
7. Ruben XAUS, Ducati, 1:59.352
8. Valentino ROSSI, Yamaha, 1:59.494
9. Troy BAYLISS, Ducati, 1:59.551
10. Colin EDWARDS, Honda, 1:59.582
11. John HOPKINS, Suzuki, 1:59.944
12. Max BIAGGI, Honda, 2:00.063
13. Makoto TAMADA, Honda, 2:00.638
14. Jeremy McWILLIAMS, Aprilia, 2:00.660
15. Neil HODGSON, Ducati, 2:00.826
16. Marco MELANDRI, Yamaha, 2:00.924
17. Norick ABE, Yamaha, 2:01.303
18. Alex HOFMANN, Kawasaki, 2:01.531
19. Yukio KAGAYAMA, Suzuki, 2:02.151
20. Nobuatsu AOKI, Proton, 2:03.281
21. James HAYDON, Proton, 2:03.845
22. James ELLISON, Harris WCM, 2:04.627

Not qualified (Out 107%) 2:07.317

23. Youichi UI, Harris WCM, 2:07.466


More, from a press release issued by Dorna Sports:

Checa clinches historic pole in Qatar

Carlos Checa will make history as the first man ever to start a MotoGP race from pole position in Qatar on Saturday after setting the fastest time in the final qualifying session at the Losail International Circuit this afternoon. The battle for top spot on the grid started as early as the seventh minute of the session, when vastly improved track conditions allowed Sete Gibernau to swiftly dislodge provisional pole holder Ruben Xaus.

Eventually Xaus’ time would be bettered by some 2.4 seconds as a host of riders took their turn at the top of the time sheets, culminating with a series of hot laps at the end of the session from Checa and a decisive pole time of 1’58.988.

“I’ve waited a long time and so I’m going to enjoy it,” said Checa, who last set pole position in Portugal just over a year ago. “I’m confident of a good result especially as we’ve worked very hard on tyre selection. It will be tough in the heat tomorrow and overtaking will be hard because the surface is so slippery off the racing line. Starting from pole is the perfect position to be in.”

Alex Barros pulled a fast time out of the bag on his last lap to gatecrash the front row in second place, relegating Sete Gibernau to third after the Spaniard’s own late pole attack faltered in the final corner. Barros’ effort knocked his team-mate Nicky Hayden off the front row, the American dropping to fourth place ahead of Shinya Nakano and Loris Capirossi.

Despite his early optimism and an improvement of almost two seconds on his provisional time today, Xaus was eventually forced back to the front of the third row in seventh place. He is joined by current World Champion and series leader Valentino Rossi, who was over half a second off the pace of his Yamaha team-mate Checa as he qualified back in eighth.

Troy Bayliss made huge strides to move up to ninth on the grid, knocking 4.5 seconds off his provisional time, whilst Colin Edwards suffered the biggest disappointment of the afternoon as he slipped to tenth despite being the fastest man in the morning practice, when he became the first rider to complete a lap of this circuit in less than two minutes.

Lap times also tumbled in the 250cc class but Sebastián Porto continued his dominance with the fastest time of the session. The Argentinean starts tomorrow’s race from pole position having set the pace in every practice so far this weekend, with the man he is desperately trying to catch at the top of the championship, Dani Pedrosa, alongside him on the front row.

Pedrosa was almost two seconds off Porto yesterday but closed to within just a couple of tenths today in what looks likely to be a direct head-to-head between the pair. Alex de Angelis was third fastest, over a second behind Porto, whilst Randy de Puniet also starts from the front row of the grid in fourth.

Toni Elías, who finished second to Pedrosa at the last round in Japan, faces a battle from the front of the second row in fifth place whilst Hiroshi Aoyama, who took his first podium of the season at his home round, lines up in sixth. Franco Battaini and Fonsi Nieto complete the second row.

Jorge Lorenzo laid down the gauntlet in the 125cc class, clocking the fastest time in both the morning and the afternoon sessions to comfortably take pole position for Saturday’s race. The Derbi youngster was over a second faster than nearest challenger Andrea Dovizioso in the free practice but the series leader closed to within 0.284 seconds in the afternoon, sealing second place on the grid with his last lap on the Honda. Aprilia rider Steve Jenkner also mounted a late assault on the front row, moving up to third place but never really threatening Lorenzo’s pole time, whilst Casey Stoner made it four manufacturers on the front row by sealing fourth on the KTM.

Roberto Locatelli gave himself a good chance of success in tomorrow’s race by sealing the front spot on the second row in fifth place but fellow title challenger Hector Barbera was not so lucky and will start from 14th place. The Aprilia pair trail Dovizioso at the top of the standings by 52 and 45 points respectively.



More, from a press release issued by Fuchs Kawasaki:

MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2004
GRAND PRIX OF QATAR – LOSAIL INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
1ST OCTOBER 2004 – QUALIFYING PRACTICE 2

NAKANO MAKES PERFECT RUN TO QUALIFY IN FIFTH PLACE

With impeccable timing Fuchs Kawasaki rider Shinya Nakano made a dramatic surge to secure fifth on the grid for tomorrow’s inaugural Qatar Grand Prix.

Nakano carved four seconds off his time from first qualifying to go within 0.24s of pole position.

His second row start comes just two weeks after his best race result of the season so far, a third place podium at last weeks Japanese Grand Prix.

With just two seconds remaining of the session, Nakano began his final qualifying lap and produced a superb performance, getting the best out of his Ninja ZX-RR and Bridgestone qualifying tyre.

Start positions will be critical for the 22 lap race, which will be run in heat wave conditions at the sand blown Losail Circuit on the outskirts of Doha.

There is a narrow racing line on the strip of track swept clean by riders, and both Nakano and his Fuchs Kawasaki team-mate, Alex Hofmann, say that overtaking will be extremely difficult.

Hofmann has set himself a massive task for the race by qualifying 18th, after a frustrating session in heat wave conditions with track temperatures officially reaching 58 degrees.

Despite set-up changes to improve rear end grip, Hofmann was unable to go any faster on a soft qualifying tyre than his standard race tyre set-up. His consistent speed on a race set-up is a positive for the race, but not so his starting spot on the sixth row.

Overnight set-up changes to front fork and spring settings produced much improved front end feel on the brakes and turn-in on Nakano’s ZX-RR. The Japanese ace is also more confident with the consistency of his race set-up for the 16 turn Losail track.

This will be Nakano’s third second row start of the season, backing up his fifth place qualifying efforts at Assen and the Sachsenring.

Shinya Nakano: 5th (1’59.232)
“After yesterday I would have been happy to be on third row today, so going to fifth place is much better than my target. I was much more confident with the front end and spent a lot of time trying to understand the conditions; it is like racing on a wet track with just a dry racing line. To make a fast lap here it helps to follow someone, because it is difficult to judge the braking markers. On my final lap I had a very good run behind Alex Barros. I’m very confident with my race set-up, but the start will be the most important part of the race, as trying to overtake here is almost impossible.”

Alex Hofmann: 18th (2’01.531)
“This is not the result I was looking for; 18th on the grid at this track and in these conditions is going to make the race very difficult. Overtaking will be tough, the dust and dirt gives you virtually no grip if you run wide. Today I just couldn’t get any extra speed out of my qualifying tyre compared to race tyres, it is very frustrating and hopefully there is a set-up solution for the race. I was sliding more on the soft qualifier than the race tyre, which probably made for great photos but not a fast time.”

Harald Eckl: Team Manager
“This is a great qualifying performance by Shinya, coming as it has just two weeks after his podium in the Japanese Grand Prix. He did a fantastic job, and from the second row he has an excellent chance in the race with overtaking being so difficult. Alex also has good pace on race tyres, but today he paid the penalty for not maximising the speed from the qualifying tyres – although I think he can join Shinya in the points in the race. It’s going to be tough, but I think we have a good bike and tyre package for these conditions.”

QUALIFYING PRACTICE 2 – COMBINED TIMES
1. Carlos Checa (SPA) Gauloises Fortuna Yamaha 1’58.988; 2. Alex Barros (BRA) Repsol Honda +0.131; 3. Sete Gibernau (SPA) Telefonica Movistar Honda +0.138; 4. Nicky Hayden (USA) Repsol Honda +0.199; 5. Shinya Nakano (JPN) Kawasaki Racing Team +0.244; 6. Loris Capirossi (ITA) Ducati Marlboro Team +0.293; 7. Ruben Xaus (SPA) dAntin Ducati Team +0.364; 8. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Gauloises Fortuna Yamaha +0.506; 9. Troy Bayliss (AUS) Ducati Marlboro Team +0.563; 10. Colin Edwards (USA) Telefonica Movistar Honda +0.594; 11. John Hopkins (USA) Suzuki Grand Prix Team +0.956; 12. Max Biaggi (ITA) Camel Honda Team +1.075; 18. Alex Hofmann (GER) Kawasaki Racing Team +2.543



More, from a press release issued by Team Telefonica Movistar Honda:

2004-10-01
SETE READY FOR THE BATTLE

2nd OFFICIAL MOTOGP QUALIFYING PRACTICE

In one of the most exciting qualifying sessions of the season, intensified by extremely high temperatures (35ºC ambient and 54ºC track) and constant changes at the top of the time sheets, Sete Gibernau managed to seal a valuable front row start in Qatar. The Telefónica MoviStar Honda MotoGP rider is sure of giving his best once again in what promises to be a physically and mentally tortuous race due to the heat and the dirt on the track. Any mistake tomorrow will be paid for dearly. Colin Edwards, perhaps the most consistent rider over the four practice sessions, had to make do with tenth place after making a mistake as he chased a fast time at the end of the session.

SETE GIBERNAU (3rdº, 1’59″126): “There are two really striking things about this Grand Prix – firstly the heat and secondly the dirt on the track. This will require an extra effort from everybody, but apart from that I think this front row is important and we! have done a good job alongside Michelin. After two tough GPs I am enjoying myself again on the bike again and, even though it will be a long, tough race, the rhythm we have should give us a chance of fighting for a good result”.

COLIN EDWARDS (10th, 1’59″582): “We continued working on the set-up today and we found a good rhythm, but unfortunately in the second half of the session we lost a lot of time on my preferred bike and I had to go out on the other one. We weren’t able to make the most of the qualification tyres because I made a small mistake in the final corner and ran off track by half a metre, losing the front. It will be tough tomorrow because to overtake you have to run off the racing line and that is risky”.

FAUSTO GRESINI (team manager): “We have to be ready for a really tough race. What happened to Colin was a shame because he did a good job in qualifying without being able to get a time on the qual! ifying tyre at the end. Sete, on the other hand, will start from the front row and it will be important to get away well at this circuit”.

LAP TIMES
1. Rubén Xaus (Esp/Ducati) 2’01″309
2. Colin Edwards (USA/Honda) + 0″308
3. Sete Gibernau (Esp/Honda) + 0″573
4. Carlos Checa (Esp/Yamaha) + 1″435
5. Max Biaggi (Ita/Honda) + 1″745
6. Valentino Rossi (Ita/Yamaha) + 1″965



More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

Max and Makoto confident of finding ideal race set-up in tomorrow’s warm-up

Max Biaggi and Makoto Tamada registered the 12th and 13th fastest times in today’s final qualifying session in Qatar. They will start therefore from the fourth and fifth rows of the grid respectively, which means it will be a crucial start to the race for the Camel Honda team duo. So tomorrow’s warm-up will be vital for both riders to find the ideal solution so they can be competitive in the race, where without a doubt the main rival will be the suffocating heat.

Sito Pons – Camel Honda (Team Principal)
“It’s clear that this track is giving us more problems than we thought it would. Max couldn’t make the most of the qualifying tyres and his position on the grid isn’t ideal. We’re not running at the peak of our capabilities and our rhythm isn’t up with the top guys either; tomorrow’s warm-up will be crucial to try and find more answers so we can be competitive in the race and we will be trying to use all the data we’ve collected on this second day of practice.”

Max Biaggi – Camel Honda (Michelin tyres) – 12th – 2’00.063
“We haven’t made the steps forward that we were expecting, because as the track began to pick up rubber and allowed us to push harder, the chattering problem in the front was accentuated, and we hardly had any issue with that yesterday. It’s a shame, because we were quite optimistic but now whenever I try to brake a bit harder in the turns, the front becomes unstable. I will try to get a good start but as soon as you get off the racing line here it’s a big risk. Furthermore we don’t have a competitive rhythm. Basically I’m expecting a difficult race and that’s a shame because I came here with a lot of confidence after having got the bike in good shape before both the Estoril and Motegi races.”

Giulio Bernardelle – Camel Honda – (Makoto Tamada’s Technical Director)
“We’ve still not got the set-up that we managed at other more difficult circuits, because of the lack of grip at this track. We are working hard to give Makoto confidence in the front which is vital for him to be fast and competitive. There have been improvements, but not enough to be up with our main rivals. There shouldn’t be any problems on the tyre front, especially in terms of their durability, but we haven’t completed all the necessary tests to make that a certainty. Tomorrow’s warm-up will be when we make our final decisions for the race.”

Makoto Tamada – Camel Honda (Bridgestone Tyres) – 13th -2’00.638
“We have so many things to improve, but at the top of the list is the feeling with the front end. This lack of confidence means I’m not as quick in the turns, so the lap time and the rhythm both suffer. By working hard to solve this problem we have left out some other things too, so I’m a little behind at the moment. I’m confident however that in tomorrow’s warm-up we will find the solutions so we can be quicker and more competitive.”



More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing:
HONDA RACING INFORMATION

Grand Prix of Qatar, Losail, Friday September 30, October 1, 2, 2004

Final Qualifying October 1

GIBERNAU BACK ON FORM WITH FRONT ROW START

MotoGP final qualifying got underway in oppressive 45 degree heat with track temperature at a stratospheric 58 degrees here in Qatar. Carlos Checa (Yamaha) rode to pole with Alex Barros (Repsol Honda RC211V) second and Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) completing the front row in third.

Conditions were more than punishing. Besides the sky-high temperatures, riders had to contend with a wafer-thin racing line on this virgin tarmac, which was used for the first time yesterday. There is very little rubber ‘laid down’ and grip is very hard to come by if riders deviate from the racing line.

Gibernau, whose reputation as a rider who excels in difficult conditions, reinforced that here with an aggressive, but measured ride to get a vital front row start and rebuild a title challenge that has faded slightly over the past two races. Series points leader Valentino Rossi (Yamaha) start from eighth place on row three.

Gibernau recorded a best lap time of 1m 59.126 seconds – just 0.138 seconds shy of Checa’s pole time. And Barros in second further reinforces his resurgence with a best time only 0.131 seconds adrift of Checa’s mark.

Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC211V) heads the second row after showing what he can do when back to full strength after his recent injuries. His 1m 59.187 second best being a mere two tenths shy of the pole time.

Less than one second covers the top 11 riders and with three Hondas in the top four positions, the RC211V is clearly suited to mastering the tricky turns and reduced grip here at the 5.4km Losail International track.

Colin Edwards (Telefonica MoviStar Honda RC211V) had looked in good shape throughout qualifying, but the Texan could only manage tenth place when the pace was upped and the times dipped into the mid 1m 59 second bracket. Edwards was the first rider to lap in less than two minutes during this morning’s free training session.

Max Biaggi (Camel Honda RC211V) and Makoto Tamada (Camel Honda RC211V), the Japanese riding on Bridgestone tyres, could not get to grips with things here and Max starts from row four in 12th with Tamada one row behind in 13th.

Qualifying assumed even more significance than usual here because of the state of the track. A good start will be crucial to any rider’s hopes of a podium – and after the first turn incident at Motegi two weeks ago, the grid will be mindful of avoiding a pile-up, but equally aware that a lack of aggression into turn one, and places lost as a consequence, will be very hard to recover.

“There are two things about this Grand Prix,” said Gibernau. “The heat and the dirt on track. This means a lot of extra effort from everybody. But apart from that the front row is vital here and we’ve done a good job along with Michelin. After two tough races I’m enjoying myself again and although it will be a long, tough race, the rhythm we have should give us a chance.”

Barros said, “Because the track’s in the middle of the desert it’s hard to keep clean, but today it had more grip than yesterday. We saw the times come down with each session. Everything is fine for me and we’ve found the suspension and gearbox settings we need. I’m quite confident about tomorrow.”

Nicky Hayden is ready to race. “We really made some big improvements over yesterday,” he said. “The track’s getting better all the time and we seem to have more grip out there now. The front-end that felt nervous yesterday feels much better today. Fourth might not be so bad because it means I’m on the clean side of the track. The big thing tomorrow will be to not make any mistakes.”

Edwards was disappointed. “We found a good rhythm, but in the second half of the session we lost a lot of time with my preferred bike and I had to take my number two machine out. We couldn’t make the most of the qualifying tyres because I made a small mistake in the final turn and ran off track by half a metre. It’ll be tough tomorrow because to overtake you’ll have to run off the racing line – and that’s risky.”

Max said, “My 12th position is a real shame because I came here full of enthusiasm. I was optimistic yesterday because I thought we were going in the right direction. I’ve got problems at the front end under braking. We can see the problem on the telemetry – but we can’t seem to solve them. I’ll just try to start well and see what happens.”

Tamada is not in great shape either. “There are many things we need to improve,’ said the Japanese. “I’m short of feel from the front-end and with this lack of confidence I can’t be strong in the turns and my rhythm’s no good. We’ve spent so much time trying to solve this that all the other areas need work too. The warm-up tomorrow will be my last chance to sort things out.”

The final hour of 250cc qualifying was Sebastian Porto’s chance to put the heat on his rivals. The Argentine grabbed pole with 2m 02.710s lap, but title chase leader Dani Pedrosa (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW) is in good shape having qualified second.

The other front row men are Alex de Angelis and Randy de Puniet (both Aprilia) while the second row will feature Tony Elias (Fortuna Honda RS250RW) in fifth with Hiroshi Aoyama (Telefonica MoviStar Junior Team RS250RW) lining up next to the Spaniard in sixth.

The best Roberto Rolfo (Fortuna Honda RS250RW) could manage was 16th on row four, while Alex Debon (Würth Honda BQR RS250R) starts from row three in 11th. Eric Bataille (Würth Honda BQR RS250R) is not riding, having decided to take the rest of the season off to recuperate from injuries. His replacement David de Gea qualifed 24th.

“The race will be difficult,” said Dani. “The heat is severe and it’s going to be so hard on tyres. The racing line is really narrow and the dirt, if you get off line, is a real problem. The start will be critical and I just hope to do well and finish.”

The final half-hour of 125cc qualifying ended with Jorge Lorenzo (Derbi) on pole with title race leader Andrea Dovizioso (Team Scot Honda RS125R) next to him on the front row. Steve Jenkner (Aprilia) and Casey Stoner (KTM) complete the front row.

Lorenzo clocked a lap of 2m 9.644 seconds and Dovizioso is a mere 0.284 seconds shy of that pole time. Dovi has been consistently quick here at this new track and is in no mood to let his title challenge lose any momentum. A front row start will be vital here where the racing line is narrow and overtaking will prove to be difficult.

“I couldn’t find anyone to slipstream on the last two laps,” said Dovi. “I had to go it alone. The bike is okay although the engine is running at 65 degrees. I’ve got a small problem with the suspension in turn ten, but aside from that everything’s good. The tactic will be to try and race normally and keep an eye on my rivals.”

The second row comprises Dovi’s main title challenger Roberto Locatelli (Aprilia) in fifth, with Pablo Nieto and Marco Simoncelli (both Aprilia) in sixth and seventh. Julian Simon (Angaia Racing Honda RS125R) lines up on row two in eighth for tomorrow’s 18-lap race.

HONDA TEAM QUOTES:

MotoGP:

Alex Barros, Repsol Honda Team: 2nd: “At my age and at my time in the championships it’s hard to find a new track but I’m happy to be here. They make a great job and I like the track. Congratulations to all who have been involved. Because the track is in the middle of the dessert it is hard to keep clean but today it had much more grip than yesterday. We see the times come down and down today with each practice session. Even now we are not on the limit. Everything for me is fine. The bike goes well. We have just spent the weekend trying to find the good settings for the suspension and the gearbox and which tyres will work best. I am quite confident for tomorrow.”

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda , 3rd: “There are two really striking things about this Grand Prix – firstly the heat and secondly the dirt on the track. This will require an extra effort from everybody, but apart from that I think this front row is important and we! have done a good job alongside Michelin. After two tough GPs I am enjoying myself again on the bike again and, even though it will be a long, tough race, the rhythm we have should give us a chance of fighting for a good result”.

Nicky Haydon, Repsol Honda Team: 4th: “Pretty good session really. We’ve really made a big improvement over yesterday – the guys have been working real hard. The tracks coming better all the time and we seem to have more grip out there now. The front that felt nervous yesterday feels much better today. Fourth might not be so bad actually – we’re on the good clean side of the track – just point two off pole! The big thing tomorrow will be to make no mistakes. We gotta’ keep out of trouble, get a good start and ride a smart race. The tyre choice will be critical but I’m looking forward to it. It’ll be wild!”

Colin Edwards, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 10th: “We continued working on the set-up today and we found a good rhythm, but unfortunately in the second half of the session we lost a lot of time on my preferred bike and I had to go out on the other one. We weren’t able to make the most of the qualification tyres because I made a small mistake in the final corner and ran off track by half a metre, losing the front. It will be tough tomorrow because to overtake you have to run off the racing line and that is risky.”

Fausto Gresini: (team manager): “We have to be ready for a really tough race. What happened to Colin was a shame because he did a good job in qualifying without being able to get a time on the qualifying tyre at the end. Sete, on the other hand, will start from the front row and it will be important to get away well at this circuit”.

Max Biaggi, Camel Honda (Michelin tyres) , 12th: “We haven’t made the steps forward that we were expecting, because as the track began to pick up rubber and allowed us to push harder, the chattering problem in the front was accentuated, and we hardly had any issue with that yesterday. It’s a shame, because we were quite optimistic but now whenever I try to brake a bit harder in the turns, the front becomes unstable. I will try to get a good start but as soon as you get off the racing line here it’s a big risk. Furthermore we don’t have a competitive rhythm. Basically I’m expecting a difficult race and that’s a shame because I came here with a lot of confidence after having got the bike in good shape before both the Estoril and Motegi races.”

Sito Pons, Camel Honda (Team Principal) : “It’s clear that this track is giving us more problems than we thought it would. Max couldn’t make the most of the qualifying tyres and his position on the grid isn’t ideal. We’re not running at the peak of our capabilities and our rhythm isn’t up with the top guys either; tomorrow’s warm-up will be crucial to try and find more answers so we can be competitive in the race and we will be trying to use all the data we’ve collected on this second day of practice.”

Makoto Tamada, Camel Honda (Bridgestone Tyres), 13th: “We have so many things to improve, but at the top of the list is the feeling with the front end. This lack of confidence means I’m not as quick in the turns, so the lap time and the rhythm both suffer. By working hard to solve this problem we have left out some other things too, so I’m a little behind at the moment. I’m confident however that in tomorrow’s warm-up we will find the solutions so we can be quicker and more competitive.”

Giulio Bernardelle, Camel Honda, (Makoto Tamada’s Technical Director):
“We’ve still not got the set-up that we managed at other more difficult circuits, because of the lack of grip at this track. We are working hard to give Makoto confidence in the front which is vital for him to be fast and competitive. There have been improvements, but not enough to be up with our main rivals. There shouldn’t be any problems on the tyre front, especially in terms of their durability, but we haven’t completed all the necessary tests to make that a certainty. Tomorrow’s warm-up will be when we make our final decisions for the race.”


250c:

Dani Pedrosa, Telefonica MoviStar Honda Jr: 2nd: “It was a tough session because of the heat but we were able to improve over the course of the session and the track also got better. It was difficult to stay on the same line because the track is really shiny and you can’t see too well. But the important thing is that we have done tyre tests and we are pretty clear about what we need for tomorrow. It will be a tough race for everybody and it will last for ever but I hope to leave here with a good result.”

Toni Elías, Fortuna Honda: 5th: “After the two sessions yesterday and having not suffered so many problems this morning, we spent the final session trying out a few things, even when I was pushing for a fast lap we were experimenting. “The tests at least showed us the way forward and a few possible solutions but once we had that in mind i didn’t have time to go out for a fast lap. “I think I could have been on the front row without a doubt if I had time. The race will be tough – not only for the heat but also for tyre wear, especially on the front”.

Hirosi Aoyama, Telefonica MoviStar Honda, 6th: “I am not completely satisfied today because I was hoping to knock more off my time to get more comfortable on the track. I think we’ll have to make a couple of changes in the warm-up and get a good start in the race to get as close as possible to the podium”.

Alberto Puig: (team manager): “Dani has done a good job – a front row start here is important. It will be a really hard race here because of the heat and he will have to be very careful not to get off line into the dirty part of the track. I hope Hiro can get a good start and make up a few positions”.

Alex Debon, Wurth Honda BQR, 11th: “Not so bad, I’m happy with myself. We have some setting points to work on because we had a small problem with the forks and one front tyre. I was in 8-9 place for a while and ended the session 11th. But for the race everything will be good and my shoulder is OK, I will be strong in the race.”

Roberto Rolfo, Fortuna Honda, 16th “Roberto Rolfo (16th): “I am constantly suffering from the same problem on the front end of the bike and even though I worked hard and tried things I hadn’t done yet it was impossible to find a solution. “I am way down the grid but I am confident of improving tomorrow in the race because I started to go better at the end of the session. Tomorrow I’ll go out to try an improve my time and push to the limit to join the front group. “I am a long way back but I will keep working and I won’t throw the towel in.”

Jakub Smrz, Molenaar Honda, 17th:Ï’mreally angry about that session. The bike worked well but I lost 5-6 places when I got blocked on my fast lap. This morning the bike was perfect and I was in 11th place so I know I can be fast in the race. The only question mark will be the tyre performance we just have one type of tyre.”

David de Gea replacement for the injured Eric Bataille, Wurth Honda BQR, 24th: “All weekend I have had a good feeling with the bike until this afternoon when I just could not get comfortable. I just don’t now why. This race is only my second race two-stroke in three years and I hoped to use the event as a build up for the last three races of the year. I ran 2.08.3s this morning and expected more this afternoon but ran exactly the same time. Basically I am not happy with myself and I will have to improve in the race. I have confidence in the bike so I can have a good race.”


125cc:

Andrea Dovizioso, Scot Honda, 2nd: “Basically the bike is very good just a couple of small problems. The engine is running at 65′ and we have a suspension problem in turn 10 but we can fix that in the warm up. I could not find anybody to slipstream in the final session and I set my time running alone so I’m happy with that. My tactics will be to race as normal we want to win but wit

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Practice Times From Qatar:

MotoGP:

1. Colin EDWARDS, Honda, 1:59.527
2. Carlos CHECA, Yamaha, 2:00.298
3. Alex BARROS, Honda, 2:00.630
4. Nicky HAYDEN, Honda, 2:00.697
5. Ruben XAUS, Ducati, 2:00.756
6. Troy BAYLISS, Ducati, 2:00.798
7. Valentino ROSSI, Yamaha, 2:00.999
8. Sete GIBERNAU, Honda, 2:01.078
9. Marco MELANDRI, Yamaha, 2:01.231
10. John HOPKINS, Suzuki, 2:01.299
11. Loris CAPIROSSI, Ducati, 2:01.554
12. Max BIAGGI, Honda, 2:01.911
13. Shinya NAKANO, Kawasaki, 2:01.937
14. Jeremy McWILLIAMS, Aprilia, 2:02.269
15. Alex HOFMANN, Kawasaki, 2:02.452
16. Neil HODGSON, Ducati, 2:02.818
17. Norick ABE, Yamaha, 2:03.522
18. Makoto TAMADA, Honda, 2:03.552
19. Yukio KAGAYAMA, Suzuki, 2:03.969
20. Nobuatsu AOKI, Proton, 2:05.772
21. James HAYDON, Proton, 2:06.064
22. James ELLISON, Harris WCM, 2:06.649
23. Youichi UI, Harris WCM, 2:09.365


250cc GP:

1. Sebastian PORTO, Aprilia, 2:04.421
2. Daniel PEDROSA, Honda, 2:04.436
3. Alex DE ANGELIS, Aprilia, 2:05.048
4. Randy DE PUNIET, Aprilia, 2:05.329
5. Franco BATTAINI, Aprilia, 2:05.795
6. Anthony WEST, Aprilia, 2:05.852
7. Toni ELIAS, Honda, 2:06.482
8. Fonsi NIETO, Aprilia, 2:06.638
9. Sylvain GUINTOLI, Aprilia, 2:06.648
10. Hiroshi AOYAMA, Honda, 2:06.858
11. Jakub SMRZ, Honda, 2:07.367
12. Hector FAUBEL, Aprilia, 2:07.619
13. Erwan NIGON, Aprilia, 2:07.698
14. Alex DEBON, Honda, 2:07.937
15. Roberto ROLFO, Honda, 2:07.983
16. Naoki MATSUDO, Yamaha, 2:08.005
17. Alex BALDOLINI, Aprilia, 2:08.121
18. Johan STIGEFELT, Aprilia, 2:08.199
19. Dirk HEIDOLF, Aprilia, 2:08.282
20. David DE GEA, Honda, 2:08.374

125cc GP:

1. Jorge LORENZO, Derbi, 2:09.973
2. Andrea DOVIZIOSO, Honda, 2:11.111
3. Marco SIMONCELLI, Aprilia, 2:11.563
4. Pablo NIETO, Aprilia, 2:11.762
5. Steve JENKNER, Aprilia, 2:11.852
6. Vesa KALLIO, Aprilia, 2:12.083
7. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 2:12.112
8. Casey STONER, KTM, 2:12.120
9. Mirko GIANSANTI, Aprilia, 2:12.357
10. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Aprilia, 2:12.463
11. Roberto LOCATELLI, Aprilia, 2:12.608
12. Simone CORSI, Honda, 2:12.845
13. Sergio GADEA, Aprilia, 2:13.073
14. Andrea BALLERINI, Aprilia, 2:13.148
15. Angel RODRIGUEZ, Derbi, 2:13.246