Jeff Williams has teamed up to ride for Z1cycletech Ducati in the Canadian Cuperbike Championship. The 11 year veteran superbike rider will race a 2005 999R in the Parts Canada series. Team owner Zaid Saleemi said “Jeff is a colorful racer and a great addition to our team, I think we can expect big things because he always gives 100 percent”.
Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates and Ben Spies were each fined $1000 by AMA Pro Racing for technical violations following the 2005 AMA season-opening races at Daytona International Speedway March 9-12. Roadracingworld.com has learned that the fines were for not having a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the frame of each rider’s 2005 GSX-R1000. Yates received his fine in Superstock. Spies was penalized in Superbike. Rules for each class require that frames have VIN numbers. No points were taken from either rider, according to the fines and penalties section of the official AMA Pro Racing website. Only riders are penalized for technical violations because AMA Pro road racing rules do not recognize the existence of teams, and the sanctioning body’s only official relationship is with licensed riders. Roadracingworld.com has asked AMA Pro Racing officials how, given the lack of VIN numbers, they were able to determine that Yates and Spies were using production frames at Daytona. AMA Pro Racing has acknowledged receipt of Roadracingworld.com’s March 15 e-mail but has not responded as of Wednesday morning.
Camel Honda team launches 2005 MotoGP mission In the prestigious surroundings of the Palazzo della Borsa in Milan, the Camel Honda team officially presented its 2005 line-up to the world’s media. Troy Bayliss and Alex Barros will this year proudly wear Camel Honda’s colours in the MotoGP World Championship 2005, and appeared on the stage alongside Roberto Zanni – Senior Vice President of JT International, Ishii Tsutomu – HRC General Manager and two-times World Champion, Sito Pons – Team Manager. Roberto Zanni JT International Worldwide Market and Sales Senior Vice-President “We chose to have this event here in Milan because Italy is an important market for JTI, and one where we are particularly competitive. Italy is also a country of motorsport and because of this we have launched some of our most important motorsport projects from here; projects which have already been successful and which pushed Camel into renewing their challenge for the title once more this season. This is also why we have chosen two extraordinary riders; two racers who have demonstrated a most fantastic mix of experience and enthusiasm in MotoGP – Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss. They have an important attribute in common, they have an incredible desire to get back on top, and as such are hungry for victory. This makes them two fearful riders on the track for their adversaries. Speaking of their rivals this year, there is another out there who won’t necessarily be such, because he is a friend who got the opportunity to ride with the factory team but will still display the Camel brand: Max Biaggi. I’m enthusiastic about this team and we expect a championship full of excitement from them.” Ishii Tsutomu HRC General Manager “This year we don’t have a title to defend and so that objective is of utmost importance to Honda. I’m looking forward to a very successful season. I think that with Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss we have the potential to win the championship, but success is not achieved just by having a top bike and top riders, you also need good teamwork and the support of a big name like JTI. I am looking forward to next season with confidence, we want to win the championship once more.” Sito Pons Camel Honda “When we present the team at the beginning of a season, I get the same kind of excitement as when our bikes are on the starting grid waiting for the green light. In the team’s 24 years there have been many thrilling winning moments and times which we are happy to remember. It makes us very proud that JTI have chosen to be our partners once more with the prestigious Camel brand, a leader at world level with who we now have a relationship going back three years. The Honda name is now part of the team’s history and in my opinion the RC211V is the best bike. Both our new riders Troy Bayliss and Alex Barros have the necessary talent and experience to carry out the enviable yet arduous task of taking it to victory. To complete the winning formula we have Michelin tyres, meaning that Alex and Troy will have fantastic support in their fight for victory in 2005.” Alex Barros Camel Honda “I am delighted to be here today, because returning to this team, to Camel Honda, is like going back to your friends. This is the first time in two years that I have felt in perfect physical shape and I think that this can be one of the high-points of my career. I will start this championship aiming to win, because as I see it there is no point in fighting for second place. From what I have seen in the tests so far, I think I can say that next season will be one of the most competitive ever, there are at least ten riders fighting for the podium positions. I have got a first rate team, a first rate bike, and I feel good and I hope to be able to use a bit of my vast experience. It will be a fantastic championship.” Troy Bayliss Camel Honda “I have been training extensively and last weekend I got my first podium of the season, taking third place in a bicycle race in San Remo”¦! Joking aside, we head off now for six test days in Barcelona and Jerez and I can’t wait to get started. It is certainly a tough task to get where the others are already, but I want to be at 100% for the first race. At the moment I would say that I am at 80%. I still need to find a good feeling with the bike, but it is coming. Obviously for me to compete with the Camel Honda team is a massive change after so many years with the same bike, but above all it is a great opportunity. The team is fantastic and is work extremely hard to give me the best support possible. Our objective now is to find that missing 20 percent in the next tests. I can’t wait for this season to begin.”
PICKERINGTON, OHIO — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that Dave Despain, well-known motorsports television personality and member of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, is the latest recipient of the AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling. The formal presentation took place at Daytona Bike Week 2005, and Despain publicly accepted the award on Sunday, March 13, during his popular “Wind Tunnel” program on Speed Channel. The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling, established in 1971, was first presented to its namesake. Dud Perkins was a San Francisco motorcycle dealer who embodied tireless and generous dedication to every aspect of motorcycling, serving on many AMA committees and advancing the careers of many noteworthy professional motorcycle racers. The award is the Association’s highest honor for outstanding contributions to motorcycling. Dave Despain is arguably the best-known television personality in the history of motorcycling. He started calling local races in and around his home state of Iowa and progressed through the ranks as race announcer, radio disc jockey, television color commentator and, ultimately, host of a nationally broadcast weekly motorcycling program. Besides being the voice of motorcycle racing, Despain also has done just about everything else in motorcycling, from being AMA Public Relations Director, racer, motorcycle shop worker, journalist, promoter, AMA Pro Racing board member and founder of the Dirt Track Hall of Fame. From the mid-1970s through the 2000s, there’s been no more recognized face and voice in the sport of motorcycling. “There’s perhaps no more deserving recipient of the Dud Perkins Award than Dave Despain,” said Robert Rasor, President of the AMA. “His immeasurable contributions to motorcycling, both behind the microphone and beyond, showcase the very best of our sport, and we’re delighted to take this opportunity to honor him.” The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling is bestowed from time to time at the pleasure of the AMA Board of Directors. A complete list of the award’s past recipients can be found at ~http://www.ama-cycle.org/whatis/dudperkins.asp~
1. Mattia PASINI, Apr, 1:51.538 2. Thomas LUTHI, Hon, 1:51.547 3. Marco SIMONCELLI, Apr, 1:52.005 4. Gabor TALMACSI, KTM, 1:52.405 5. Hector FAUBEL, Apr, 1:52.545 6. Fabrizio LAI, Hon, 1:52.567 7. Pablo NIETO, Der, 1:52.764 8. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:52.811 9. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:52.984 10. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Hon, 1:52.997 11. Manuel POGGIALI, Gil, 1:53.036 12. Lukas PESEK, Der, 1:53.078 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Apr, 1:53.113 14. Mike DI MEGLIO, Hon, 1:53.322 15. Raffael DE ROSA, Apr, 1:53.387 16. Imre TOTH, Apr, 1:53.467 17. Toshihisa KUZUHARA, Hon, 1:53.474 18. Julian MIRALLES, Apr, 1:53.638 19. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Hon, 1:53.713 20. Federico SANDI, Hon, 1:53.777
British Superbike Test Brands Hatch Indy Circuit Unofficial Tuesday Afternoon Practice Times: 1. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Hon CBR1000RR, 45.973 seconds 2. Sean Emmett, Yam YZF-R1, 46.174 seconds 3. Gregorio Lavilla, Suz GSX-R1000, 46.405 seconds 4. Michael Rutter, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.447 seconds 5. Karl Harris, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.733 seconds 6. Scott Smart, Suz GSX-R1000, 46.853 seconds 7. Gary Mason, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.857 seconds 8. Jeremy McWilliams, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.164 seconds 9. Tommy Hill, Yam YZF-R1, 47.460 seconds 10. Michael Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.501 seconds 11. Ben Wilson, Kaw ZX-10R, 47.541 seconds 12. John McGuinness, Yam YZF-R1, 47.557 seconds 13. James Buckingham, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.586 seconds 14. John Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.638 seconds 15. Tristan Palmer, Kaw ZX-10R, 47.871 seconds 16. Stuart Easton, Duc 999RS, 47.890 seconds 17. Eugene Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.920 seconds 18. Jonathan Rea, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.955 seconds 19. Danny Beaumont, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.112 seconds 20. Dennis Hobbs, Yam YZF-R1, 48.142 seconds More, from a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki: Rizla Suzuki relaxed as pre-season testing finishes RIZLA SUZUKI racer Scott Smart finished pre-season testing at Brands Hatch today and is in a relaxed mood for the start of the racing season in just two week’s time. The 28-year-old York based Londoner set the sixth fastest time during the cloudy test sessions and made significant progress in developing the GSX-R1000K5 to match his all-action riding style. Former Suzuki World Superbike star Gregorio Lavilla joined Rizla Suzuki to test alongside Scott and his feedback has helped accelerate the development of the all-new GSX-R1000K5. Finishing third on the time sheets, he has also been measured to fit the motorcycle in case Rizla Suzuki’s British Champion John Reynolds, who is recovering from a broken right leg sustained in testing last month, is unable to race at the opening round. The Official British Superbike Championship Series Launch takes place at the Audi Forum in London tomorrow, Wednesday, March 16th, and the team will be in attendance. The first round of the 2005 Championship is at Brands Hatch Indy circuit in Kent on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th. Scott Smart: “We have used this test very productively. For us today wasn’t about outright lap times, it was about getting the best possible setting for Brands Hatch Indy circuit for when we come to race here at the opening round in a fortnight. “On race tyres and riding within myself, we are right on the pace. We will just get faster and faster as we complete more laps and there is still a lot of pure performance to come from the GSX-R1000K5 – we have only scratched the surface! “I didn’t go flat out today, there are no points for finishing first in testing. When we come back here to race though, I’ll not be holding back and I think we have a package with my GSX-R1000 and Rizla Suzuki team that is going to be difficult to beat. I can’t wait for the racing.” Gregorio Lavilla: “The Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 is a very fast motorcycle and I have enjoyed riding it. Thank you to Rizla Suzuki for inviting me to this test. We finished the day with a faster setting than when we started, which is good progress and helps the team.” Niall Mackenzie, Team Performance Co-ordinator: “Rizla Suzuki has taken another step forward in the development of the GSX-R1000K5 and we are getting quicker with every lap completed. “Scott is happy with his set-up and dialing himself in nicely on his Rizla Suzuki. We tried a few specific changes to his bike and have a direction to follow when we return here in two weeks time for the first round of the Championship. “Our thanks to Gregorio for joining us, his feedback has been invaluable. It has been a big benefit having a second rider on our bike getting through some hard testing work. “JR came to support the team this morning and is keener than ever to be racing at the opening round after watching Gregorio and Scott on track. He plans to be with his doctors for the rest of the week receiving specialist treatment and Alpinestars is providing him with a reinforced boot in a bid to help him to race at the opening round. All our fingers are crossed for JR, we want him defending his title from the off.” Brands Hatch test times: 1: Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda) 45.973, 2: Sean Emmett (Yamaha) +0.201, 3: GREGORIO LAVILLA (RIZLA SUZUKI) +0.432, 4: Michael Rutter (Honda) + 0.474, 5: Karl Harris (Honda) +0.760, 6: SCOTT SMART (RIZLA SUZUKI) +0.880
Lüthi sets pace on first day of official 125cc test Swiss teenager Thomas Lüthi was the quickest 125cc rider on the first day of official tests at the Catalunya circuit near Barcelona, Spain, on Tuesday. The Honda youngster, preparing for his fourth season in the World Championship, set a time of 1:52.789 to oust Aprilia rival Mattia Pasini from top spot after the Italian had dominated the time sheets for much of a cloudy but dry day. “This is a track I really like and the conditions today were perfect for testing,” commented Lüthi, who enjoyed his best ever career finish at this circuit with second place after a last-lap battle for victory with eventual World Champion Dani Pedrosa in 2003. “I had a small crash but it was nothing serious and I was able to get back on the bike and set my fastest time,” he continued. “Last season was a bit of a disaster for me but I have worked hard over the winter to make sure I am in top physical shape. I had a plate removed from my collarbone two weeks ago and I feel great. Hopefully this can be a good season for myself and the team.” With bright sunshine emerging for the final hour of the test, the majority of riders lapped until the track closed at 6pm. It provided an entertaining end to the day’s action, with riders from five different factories establishing their top six credentials for what promises to be another open and entertaining season. Whilst Gabor Talmacsi is entering his first season as a factory rider with KTM, former World Champion Manuel Poggiali returns to the class with Gilera, the factory with which he won the title in 2001, and Pablo Nieto is back at Derbi, where he made his entrance to Grand Prix back in 1999. Mattia Pasini and Marco Simoncelli, meanwhile, are two of Aprilia’s main hopes for glory, with the former having being crowned Rookie of the Year last season whilst the latter clinched his first victory at Jerez. The 125cc official test continues on Wednesday until 14.00h before making way for their 250cc counterparts. The premier-class MotoGP machines take to the track for three days of tests on Friday morning at 10.00h. 125cc Test Times: 1. Thomas LUTHI, Hon, 1:52.789 2. Mattia PASINI, Apr, 1:52.797 3. Gabor TALMACSI, KTM, 1:52.879 4. Marco SIMONCELLI, Apr, 1:53.022 5. Manuel POGGIALI, Gil, 1:53.117 6. Pablo NIETO, Derbi, 1:53.163 7. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:53.191 8. Mike DI MEGLIO, Hon, 1:53.201 9. Fabrizio LAI, Hon, 1:53.348 10. Hector FAUBEL, Apr, 1:53.357 11. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:53.390 12. Lukas PESEK, Der, 1:53.482 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Apr, 1:53.801 14. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Hon, 1:53.847 15. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Hon, 1:53.863 16. Federico SANDI, Hon, 1:53.925 17. Andrea IANNONE, Apr, 1:54.124 18. Toshihisa KUZUHARA, Hon, 1:54.189 19. Jordi CARCHANO, Apr, 1:54.220 20. Imre TOTH, Apr, 1:54.231
British Superbike Test Brands Hatch Indy Circuit Unofficial Tuesday Morning Practice Times: 1. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.319 seconds 2. Sean Emmett, Yam YZF-R1, 46.676 seconds 3. Michael Rutter, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.834 seconds 4. Karl Harris, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.142 seconds 5. Gregorio Lavilla, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.417 seconds 6. Scott Smart, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.457 seconds 7. Gary Mason, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.844 seconds 8. Tristan Palmer, Kaw ZX-10R, 48.087 seconds 9. Ben Wilson, Kaw ZX-10R, 48.195 seconds 10. Danny Beaumont, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.311 seconds 11. Jeremy McWilliams, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.354 seconds 12. John Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.403 seconds 13. Cal Crutchlow, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.421 seconds 14. Michael Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.515 seconds 15. Eugene Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.568 seconds 16. Jonathan Rea, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.602 seconds 17. John McGuinness, Yam YZF-R1, 48.676 seconds 18. Marty Nutt, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.832 seconds 19. Dennis Hobbs, Yam YZF-R1, 48.968 seconds 20. James Buckingham, Suz GSX-R1000, 49.017 seconds
Three vastly experienced riders from the World Endurance and Masters of Endurance Championships will take part in this year’s Isle of Man TT Races with Amaury Baratin and Emmanual Cheron from France and German rider Frank Spenner the latest star names added to the entry list for TT 2005. Baratin and Cheron are team mates who have finished sixth for the last two years at the infamous Bol D’Or 24 Hour event and are regular top ten finishers in the break away Masters of Endurance series. Together they finished fourth in the overall standings in 2003, with three factory backed teams ahead of them. German star Spenner is a regular point scorer in the World Endurance series and has also scored impressive results in some of the Pure Road Races on the continent. The TT continues to have strong links to Endurance Racing with current TT stars John McGuinness, Ian Lougher, John Barton, Bruno Bonhuil, Jun Maeda, Gus Scott and Mirko Kalsek all competing in the World Endurance and/or Masters of Endurance Championships in recent years. Commenting on the three riders, TT Team and Rider Liaison Officer Paul Phillips said: “Endurance racing has some similarities to the TT, as riders require the same high, sustained levels of concentration. Therefore it is inevitable that some riders from these championships will consider racing at the TT. Amaury, Emmanual and Frank have enjoyed a lot of success in recent years in Endurance Racing and I am sure they will turn out to be excellent TT riders in the years ahead. We hope to bring over more talented riders from Endurance racing in the future, and we have spoken to a number of prime candidates already who would greatly enhance the TT entry, some of whom may join these three lads on the entry for this year.” David Cretney MHK, Minister for the Department of Tourism and Leisure and Chairman of the TT Co-ordinating Committee added: “It is great to see more talented overseas riders taking up the TT challenge. I am sure that Amaury Baratin, Emmanual Cheron and Frank Spenner will rise to that challenge having already shown their credentials in the competitive Endurance Championships on the continent. I have said it many times already this year, but I will say it again; TT 2005 is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory and I can’t wait for it all to start for another year.”
DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM RETURNS TO EUROPE FOR IRTA TEST AT BARCELONA, FIRST OFFICIAL APPOINTMENT OF THE 2005 MOTOGP SEASON After a lengthy series of winter tests, Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa are ready for the first official confrontation of the season. After a positive conclusion to the winter test schedule, which saw the Ducati Marlboro Team involved at faraway circuits in Sepang, Phillip Island and Doha, the Italian squad returns to Europe for the first official appointments of the 2005 MotoGP season: the IRTA Tests at Barcelona and Jerez. Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa will be back on their Desmosedici GP5 machines, ready to face up to their rivals in what promises to be a long season ahead but motivation is high due to the excellent results achieved by both riders in the past at the Montmelò circuit. Loris, on his debut with Ducati, set quickest time in the IRTA Test two years ago and then, a few months later, took the top podium slot in the race. Carlos, in front of his home crowd, scored a first-ever 500 win here in 1996. The positive results of the winter tests have helped fuel the motivation of Ducati Marlboro Team engineers and riders in view of the start of the 2005 MotoGP championship. “It is with great pleasure that we return to Barcelona. On this track Loris has given us some incredible moments of joy, such as the surprising fastest lap he set during the 2003 IRTA Test or the first win of the Ducati Marlboro Team in the sixth Gp of the same year. This is also Carlos’s home track and it is particularly dear to him as he scored his first 500 win here in 1996. I am sure that both our riders can’t wait to take part in this first real confrontation” declared Livio Suppo, MotoGP project manager. “The results of the winter tests are very encouraging and they demonstrate that the technical decisions taken have put the development of the Desmosedici on the right track. The collaboration with Bridgestone is also continuing well and is giving great satisfaction to both parties. I believe that all the conditions are there for an interesting season ahead! Now all we have to do is wait for Sunday afternoon, when we will see what the lap times are like”. Encouraged and motivated by the pre-season tests, Loris Capirossi is raring to get back onto his Desmosedici GP5 at the Spanish circuit. “We worked a lot during the winter, both on the track and in the company, and I am curious to see how we go against all the other riders at what is universally considered to be more or less the first ‘race’ of the season” declared Loris. “I have splendid memories of Barcelona and hopefully I’ll be able to add some new ones!”. Ready for his first official outing on a factory Ducati machine, Carlos Checa is also anxious to face up to all his rivals. “Here I took part in my first race in the 125 world championship as a wild-card and three years later I scored my first win in 500. All of my friends will be there to cheer me on and this year they will see me on a Ducati: that’s an emotional feeling!” commented Carlos. “I am pleased with the way the bike improved over the winter, I know that we still have to work hard to be up with the front-runners but I am ready. I know that the Desmosedici adapts well to this track and I hope that we can get the most out of these three days of testing”. At Barcelona the Ducati Marlboro Team factory riders will also be flanked by Vittoriano Guareschi with the Development Team and Shinichi Ito, who will be working with the Bridgestone technicians. Vitto will continue the development, which began at Jerez in February, of a new system of engine braking modulation. This is a special software designed by Ducati Corse that acts on engine and clutch management parameters to give greater stability under braking by reducing the rear-wheel braking effect which is common with four-stroke machines. MotoGP Test Schedule Friday 10.00 – 18.00 Free Practice 1 Saturday 10.00 – 18.00 Free Practice 2 Sunday 10.00 – 13.00 Free Practice 3 13.30 – 13.50 Photo opportunity 14.05 – 14.45 Televised MotoGP Practice session 14.45 – 15.00 BMW award ceremony 15.15 – 18.00 Free Practice 4 Circuit de Catalunya: Lap record: Sete Gibernau (Honda), 1m44.641s, 162.624 km/h (101.050 mph) Pole position 2004: Sete Gibernau (Honda), 1m 42.596s Inaugurated in 1991 Modified in 1995 Length: 4.727 km. Length of pit straight: 1.047 km Corners left: 5 Corners right: 8
Jeff Williams has teamed up to ride for Z1cycletech Ducati in the Canadian Cuperbike Championship. The 11 year veteran superbike rider will race a 2005 999R in the Parts Canada series. Team owner Zaid Saleemi said “Jeff is a colorful racer and a great addition to our team, I think we can expect big things because he always gives 100 percent”.
Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates and Ben Spies were each fined $1000 by AMA Pro Racing for technical violations following the 2005 AMA season-opening races at Daytona International Speedway March 9-12. Roadracingworld.com has learned that the fines were for not having a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the frame of each rider’s 2005 GSX-R1000. Yates received his fine in Superstock. Spies was penalized in Superbike. Rules for each class require that frames have VIN numbers. No points were taken from either rider, according to the fines and penalties section of the official AMA Pro Racing website. Only riders are penalized for technical violations because AMA Pro road racing rules do not recognize the existence of teams, and the sanctioning body’s only official relationship is with licensed riders. Roadracingworld.com has asked AMA Pro Racing officials how, given the lack of VIN numbers, they were able to determine that Yates and Spies were using production frames at Daytona. AMA Pro Racing has acknowledged receipt of Roadracingworld.com’s March 15 e-mail but has not responded as of Wednesday morning.
Camel Honda team launches 2005 MotoGP mission In the prestigious surroundings of the Palazzo della Borsa in Milan, the Camel Honda team officially presented its 2005 line-up to the world’s media. Troy Bayliss and Alex Barros will this year proudly wear Camel Honda’s colours in the MotoGP World Championship 2005, and appeared on the stage alongside Roberto Zanni – Senior Vice President of JT International, Ishii Tsutomu – HRC General Manager and two-times World Champion, Sito Pons – Team Manager. Roberto Zanni JT International Worldwide Market and Sales Senior Vice-President “We chose to have this event here in Milan because Italy is an important market for JTI, and one where we are particularly competitive. Italy is also a country of motorsport and because of this we have launched some of our most important motorsport projects from here; projects which have already been successful and which pushed Camel into renewing their challenge for the title once more this season. This is also why we have chosen two extraordinary riders; two racers who have demonstrated a most fantastic mix of experience and enthusiasm in MotoGP – Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss. They have an important attribute in common, they have an incredible desire to get back on top, and as such are hungry for victory. This makes them two fearful riders on the track for their adversaries. Speaking of their rivals this year, there is another out there who won’t necessarily be such, because he is a friend who got the opportunity to ride with the factory team but will still display the Camel brand: Max Biaggi. I’m enthusiastic about this team and we expect a championship full of excitement from them.” Ishii Tsutomu HRC General Manager “This year we don’t have a title to defend and so that objective is of utmost importance to Honda. I’m looking forward to a very successful season. I think that with Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss we have the potential to win the championship, but success is not achieved just by having a top bike and top riders, you also need good teamwork and the support of a big name like JTI. I am looking forward to next season with confidence, we want to win the championship once more.” Sito Pons Camel Honda “When we present the team at the beginning of a season, I get the same kind of excitement as when our bikes are on the starting grid waiting for the green light. In the team’s 24 years there have been many thrilling winning moments and times which we are happy to remember. It makes us very proud that JTI have chosen to be our partners once more with the prestigious Camel brand, a leader at world level with who we now have a relationship going back three years. The Honda name is now part of the team’s history and in my opinion the RC211V is the best bike. Both our new riders Troy Bayliss and Alex Barros have the necessary talent and experience to carry out the enviable yet arduous task of taking it to victory. To complete the winning formula we have Michelin tyres, meaning that Alex and Troy will have fantastic support in their fight for victory in 2005.” Alex Barros Camel Honda “I am delighted to be here today, because returning to this team, to Camel Honda, is like going back to your friends. This is the first time in two years that I have felt in perfect physical shape and I think that this can be one of the high-points of my career. I will start this championship aiming to win, because as I see it there is no point in fighting for second place. From what I have seen in the tests so far, I think I can say that next season will be one of the most competitive ever, there are at least ten riders fighting for the podium positions. I have got a first rate team, a first rate bike, and I feel good and I hope to be able to use a bit of my vast experience. It will be a fantastic championship.” Troy Bayliss Camel Honda “I have been training extensively and last weekend I got my first podium of the season, taking third place in a bicycle race in San Remo”¦! Joking aside, we head off now for six test days in Barcelona and Jerez and I can’t wait to get started. It is certainly a tough task to get where the others are already, but I want to be at 100% for the first race. At the moment I would say that I am at 80%. I still need to find a good feeling with the bike, but it is coming. Obviously for me to compete with the Camel Honda team is a massive change after so many years with the same bike, but above all it is a great opportunity. The team is fantastic and is work extremely hard to give me the best support possible. Our objective now is to find that missing 20 percent in the next tests. I can’t wait for this season to begin.”
PICKERINGTON, OHIO — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that Dave Despain, well-known motorsports television personality and member of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, is the latest recipient of the AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling. The formal presentation took place at Daytona Bike Week 2005, and Despain publicly accepted the award on Sunday, March 13, during his popular “Wind Tunnel” program on Speed Channel. The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling, established in 1971, was first presented to its namesake. Dud Perkins was a San Francisco motorcycle dealer who embodied tireless and generous dedication to every aspect of motorcycling, serving on many AMA committees and advancing the careers of many noteworthy professional motorcycle racers. The award is the Association’s highest honor for outstanding contributions to motorcycling. Dave Despain is arguably the best-known television personality in the history of motorcycling. He started calling local races in and around his home state of Iowa and progressed through the ranks as race announcer, radio disc jockey, television color commentator and, ultimately, host of a nationally broadcast weekly motorcycling program. Besides being the voice of motorcycle racing, Despain also has done just about everything else in motorcycling, from being AMA Public Relations Director, racer, motorcycle shop worker, journalist, promoter, AMA Pro Racing board member and founder of the Dirt Track Hall of Fame. From the mid-1970s through the 2000s, there’s been no more recognized face and voice in the sport of motorcycling. “There’s perhaps no more deserving recipient of the Dud Perkins Award than Dave Despain,” said Robert Rasor, President of the AMA. “His immeasurable contributions to motorcycling, both behind the microphone and beyond, showcase the very best of our sport, and we’re delighted to take this opportunity to honor him.” The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling is bestowed from time to time at the pleasure of the AMA Board of Directors. A complete list of the award’s past recipients can be found at ~http://www.ama-cycle.org/whatis/dudperkins.asp~
1. Mattia PASINI, Apr, 1:51.538 2. Thomas LUTHI, Hon, 1:51.547 3. Marco SIMONCELLI, Apr, 1:52.005 4. Gabor TALMACSI, KTM, 1:52.405 5. Hector FAUBEL, Apr, 1:52.545 6. Fabrizio LAI, Hon, 1:52.567 7. Pablo NIETO, Der, 1:52.764 8. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:52.811 9. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:52.984 10. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Hon, 1:52.997 11. Manuel POGGIALI, Gil, 1:53.036 12. Lukas PESEK, Der, 1:53.078 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Apr, 1:53.113 14. Mike DI MEGLIO, Hon, 1:53.322 15. Raffael DE ROSA, Apr, 1:53.387 16. Imre TOTH, Apr, 1:53.467 17. Toshihisa KUZUHARA, Hon, 1:53.474 18. Julian MIRALLES, Apr, 1:53.638 19. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Hon, 1:53.713 20. Federico SANDI, Hon, 1:53.777
British Superbike Test Brands Hatch Indy Circuit Unofficial Tuesday Afternoon Practice Times: 1. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Hon CBR1000RR, 45.973 seconds 2. Sean Emmett, Yam YZF-R1, 46.174 seconds 3. Gregorio Lavilla, Suz GSX-R1000, 46.405 seconds 4. Michael Rutter, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.447 seconds 5. Karl Harris, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.733 seconds 6. Scott Smart, Suz GSX-R1000, 46.853 seconds 7. Gary Mason, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.857 seconds 8. Jeremy McWilliams, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.164 seconds 9. Tommy Hill, Yam YZF-R1, 47.460 seconds 10. Michael Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.501 seconds 11. Ben Wilson, Kaw ZX-10R, 47.541 seconds 12. John McGuinness, Yam YZF-R1, 47.557 seconds 13. James Buckingham, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.586 seconds 14. John Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.638 seconds 15. Tristan Palmer, Kaw ZX-10R, 47.871 seconds 16. Stuart Easton, Duc 999RS, 47.890 seconds 17. Eugene Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.920 seconds 18. Jonathan Rea, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.955 seconds 19. Danny Beaumont, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.112 seconds 20. Dennis Hobbs, Yam YZF-R1, 48.142 seconds More, from a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki: Rizla Suzuki relaxed as pre-season testing finishes RIZLA SUZUKI racer Scott Smart finished pre-season testing at Brands Hatch today and is in a relaxed mood for the start of the racing season in just two week’s time. The 28-year-old York based Londoner set the sixth fastest time during the cloudy test sessions and made significant progress in developing the GSX-R1000K5 to match his all-action riding style. Former Suzuki World Superbike star Gregorio Lavilla joined Rizla Suzuki to test alongside Scott and his feedback has helped accelerate the development of the all-new GSX-R1000K5. Finishing third on the time sheets, he has also been measured to fit the motorcycle in case Rizla Suzuki’s British Champion John Reynolds, who is recovering from a broken right leg sustained in testing last month, is unable to race at the opening round. The Official British Superbike Championship Series Launch takes place at the Audi Forum in London tomorrow, Wednesday, March 16th, and the team will be in attendance. The first round of the 2005 Championship is at Brands Hatch Indy circuit in Kent on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th. Scott Smart: “We have used this test very productively. For us today wasn’t about outright lap times, it was about getting the best possible setting for Brands Hatch Indy circuit for when we come to race here at the opening round in a fortnight. “On race tyres and riding within myself, we are right on the pace. We will just get faster and faster as we complete more laps and there is still a lot of pure performance to come from the GSX-R1000K5 – we have only scratched the surface! “I didn’t go flat out today, there are no points for finishing first in testing. When we come back here to race though, I’ll not be holding back and I think we have a package with my GSX-R1000 and Rizla Suzuki team that is going to be difficult to beat. I can’t wait for the racing.” Gregorio Lavilla: “The Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 is a very fast motorcycle and I have enjoyed riding it. Thank you to Rizla Suzuki for inviting me to this test. We finished the day with a faster setting than when we started, which is good progress and helps the team.” Niall Mackenzie, Team Performance Co-ordinator: “Rizla Suzuki has taken another step forward in the development of the GSX-R1000K5 and we are getting quicker with every lap completed. “Scott is happy with his set-up and dialing himself in nicely on his Rizla Suzuki. We tried a few specific changes to his bike and have a direction to follow when we return here in two weeks time for the first round of the Championship. “Our thanks to Gregorio for joining us, his feedback has been invaluable. It has been a big benefit having a second rider on our bike getting through some hard testing work. “JR came to support the team this morning and is keener than ever to be racing at the opening round after watching Gregorio and Scott on track. He plans to be with his doctors for the rest of the week receiving specialist treatment and Alpinestars is providing him with a reinforced boot in a bid to help him to race at the opening round. All our fingers are crossed for JR, we want him defending his title from the off.” Brands Hatch test times: 1: Ryuichi Kiyonari (Honda) 45.973, 2: Sean Emmett (Yamaha) +0.201, 3: GREGORIO LAVILLA (RIZLA SUZUKI) +0.432, 4: Michael Rutter (Honda) + 0.474, 5: Karl Harris (Honda) +0.760, 6: SCOTT SMART (RIZLA SUZUKI) +0.880
Lüthi sets pace on first day of official 125cc test Swiss teenager Thomas Lüthi was the quickest 125cc rider on the first day of official tests at the Catalunya circuit near Barcelona, Spain, on Tuesday. The Honda youngster, preparing for his fourth season in the World Championship, set a time of 1:52.789 to oust Aprilia rival Mattia Pasini from top spot after the Italian had dominated the time sheets for much of a cloudy but dry day. “This is a track I really like and the conditions today were perfect for testing,” commented Lüthi, who enjoyed his best ever career finish at this circuit with second place after a last-lap battle for victory with eventual World Champion Dani Pedrosa in 2003. “I had a small crash but it was nothing serious and I was able to get back on the bike and set my fastest time,” he continued. “Last season was a bit of a disaster for me but I have worked hard over the winter to make sure I am in top physical shape. I had a plate removed from my collarbone two weeks ago and I feel great. Hopefully this can be a good season for myself and the team.” With bright sunshine emerging for the final hour of the test, the majority of riders lapped until the track closed at 6pm. It provided an entertaining end to the day’s action, with riders from five different factories establishing their top six credentials for what promises to be another open and entertaining season. Whilst Gabor Talmacsi is entering his first season as a factory rider with KTM, former World Champion Manuel Poggiali returns to the class with Gilera, the factory with which he won the title in 2001, and Pablo Nieto is back at Derbi, where he made his entrance to Grand Prix back in 1999. Mattia Pasini and Marco Simoncelli, meanwhile, are two of Aprilia’s main hopes for glory, with the former having being crowned Rookie of the Year last season whilst the latter clinched his first victory at Jerez. The 125cc official test continues on Wednesday until 14.00h before making way for their 250cc counterparts. The premier-class MotoGP machines take to the track for three days of tests on Friday morning at 10.00h. 125cc Test Times: 1. Thomas LUTHI, Hon, 1:52.789 2. Mattia PASINI, Apr, 1:52.797 3. Gabor TALMACSI, KTM, 1:52.879 4. Marco SIMONCELLI, Apr, 1:53.022 5. Manuel POGGIALI, Gil, 1:53.117 6. Pablo NIETO, Derbi, 1:53.163 7. Mika KALLIO, KTM, 1:53.191 8. Mike DI MEGLIO, Hon, 1:53.201 9. Fabrizio LAI, Hon, 1:53.348 10. Hector FAUBEL, Apr, 1:53.357 11. Julian SIMON, KTM, 1:53.390 12. Lukas PESEK, Der, 1:53.482 13. Lorenzo ZANETTI, Apr, 1:53.801 14. Alvaro BAUTISTA, Hon, 1:53.847 15. Tomoyoshi KOYAMA, Hon, 1:53.863 16. Federico SANDI, Hon, 1:53.925 17. Andrea IANNONE, Apr, 1:54.124 18. Toshihisa KUZUHARA, Hon, 1:54.189 19. Jordi CARCHANO, Apr, 1:54.220 20. Imre TOTH, Apr, 1:54.231
British Superbike Test Brands Hatch Indy Circuit Unofficial Tuesday Morning Practice Times: 1. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.319 seconds 2. Sean Emmett, Yam YZF-R1, 46.676 seconds 3. Michael Rutter, Hon CBR1000RR, 46.834 seconds 4. Karl Harris, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.142 seconds 5. Gregorio Lavilla, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.417 seconds 6. Scott Smart, Suz GSX-R1000, 47.457 seconds 7. Gary Mason, Hon CBR1000RR, 47.844 seconds 8. Tristan Palmer, Kaw ZX-10R, 48.087 seconds 9. Ben Wilson, Kaw ZX-10R, 48.195 seconds 10. Danny Beaumont, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.311 seconds 11. Jeremy McWilliams, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.354 seconds 12. John Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.403 seconds 13. Cal Crutchlow, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.421 seconds 14. Michael Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.515 seconds 15. Eugene Laverty, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.568 seconds 16. Jonathan Rea, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.602 seconds 17. John McGuinness, Yam YZF-R1, 48.676 seconds 18. Marty Nutt, Hon CBR1000RR, 48.832 seconds 19. Dennis Hobbs, Yam YZF-R1, 48.968 seconds 20. James Buckingham, Suz GSX-R1000, 49.017 seconds
Three vastly experienced riders from the World Endurance and Masters of Endurance Championships will take part in this year’s Isle of Man TT Races with Amaury Baratin and Emmanual Cheron from France and German rider Frank Spenner the latest star names added to the entry list for TT 2005. Baratin and Cheron are team mates who have finished sixth for the last two years at the infamous Bol D’Or 24 Hour event and are regular top ten finishers in the break away Masters of Endurance series. Together they finished fourth in the overall standings in 2003, with three factory backed teams ahead of them. German star Spenner is a regular point scorer in the World Endurance series and has also scored impressive results in some of the Pure Road Races on the continent. The TT continues to have strong links to Endurance Racing with current TT stars John McGuinness, Ian Lougher, John Barton, Bruno Bonhuil, Jun Maeda, Gus Scott and Mirko Kalsek all competing in the World Endurance and/or Masters of Endurance Championships in recent years. Commenting on the three riders, TT Team and Rider Liaison Officer Paul Phillips said: “Endurance racing has some similarities to the TT, as riders require the same high, sustained levels of concentration. Therefore it is inevitable that some riders from these championships will consider racing at the TT. Amaury, Emmanual and Frank have enjoyed a lot of success in recent years in Endurance Racing and I am sure they will turn out to be excellent TT riders in the years ahead. We hope to bring over more talented riders from Endurance racing in the future, and we have spoken to a number of prime candidates already who would greatly enhance the TT entry, some of whom may join these three lads on the entry for this year.” David Cretney MHK, Minister for the Department of Tourism and Leisure and Chairman of the TT Co-ordinating Committee added: “It is great to see more talented overseas riders taking up the TT challenge. I am sure that Amaury Baratin, Emmanual Cheron and Frank Spenner will rise to that challenge having already shown their credentials in the competitive Endurance Championships on the continent. I have said it many times already this year, but I will say it again; TT 2005 is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory and I can’t wait for it all to start for another year.”
DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM RETURNS TO EUROPE FOR IRTA TEST AT BARCELONA, FIRST OFFICIAL APPOINTMENT OF THE 2005 MOTOGP SEASON After a lengthy series of winter tests, Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa are ready for the first official confrontation of the season. After a positive conclusion to the winter test schedule, which saw the Ducati Marlboro Team involved at faraway circuits in Sepang, Phillip Island and Doha, the Italian squad returns to Europe for the first official appointments of the 2005 MotoGP season: the IRTA Tests at Barcelona and Jerez. Loris Capirossi and Carlos Checa will be back on their Desmosedici GP5 machines, ready to face up to their rivals in what promises to be a long season ahead but motivation is high due to the excellent results achieved by both riders in the past at the Montmelò circuit. Loris, on his debut with Ducati, set quickest time in the IRTA Test two years ago and then, a few months later, took the top podium slot in the race. Carlos, in front of his home crowd, scored a first-ever 500 win here in 1996. The positive results of the winter tests have helped fuel the motivation of Ducati Marlboro Team engineers and riders in view of the start of the 2005 MotoGP championship. “It is with great pleasure that we return to Barcelona. On this track Loris has given us some incredible moments of joy, such as the surprising fastest lap he set during the 2003 IRTA Test or the first win of the Ducati Marlboro Team in the sixth Gp of the same year. This is also Carlos’s home track and it is particularly dear to him as he scored his first 500 win here in 1996. I am sure that both our riders can’t wait to take part in this first real confrontation” declared Livio Suppo, MotoGP project manager. “The results of the winter tests are very encouraging and they demonstrate that the technical decisions taken have put the development of the Desmosedici on the right track. The collaboration with Bridgestone is also continuing well and is giving great satisfaction to both parties. I believe that all the conditions are there for an interesting season ahead! Now all we have to do is wait for Sunday afternoon, when we will see what the lap times are like”. Encouraged and motivated by the pre-season tests, Loris Capirossi is raring to get back onto his Desmosedici GP5 at the Spanish circuit. “We worked a lot during the winter, both on the track and in the company, and I am curious to see how we go against all the other riders at what is universally considered to be more or less the first ‘race’ of the season” declared Loris. “I have splendid memories of Barcelona and hopefully I’ll be able to add some new ones!”. Ready for his first official outing on a factory Ducati machine, Carlos Checa is also anxious to face up to all his rivals. “Here I took part in my first race in the 125 world championship as a wild-card and three years later I scored my first win in 500. All of my friends will be there to cheer me on and this year they will see me on a Ducati: that’s an emotional feeling!” commented Carlos. “I am pleased with the way the bike improved over the winter, I know that we still have to work hard to be up with the front-runners but I am ready. I know that the Desmosedici adapts well to this track and I hope that we can get the most out of these three days of testing”. At Barcelona the Ducati Marlboro Team factory riders will also be flanked by Vittoriano Guareschi with the Development Team and Shinichi Ito, who will be working with the Bridgestone technicians. Vitto will continue the development, which began at Jerez in February, of a new system of engine braking modulation. This is a special software designed by Ducati Corse that acts on engine and clutch management parameters to give greater stability under braking by reducing the rear-wheel braking effect which is common with four-stroke machines. MotoGP Test Schedule Friday 10.00 – 18.00 Free Practice 1 Saturday 10.00 – 18.00 Free Practice 2 Sunday 10.00 – 13.00 Free Practice 3 13.30 – 13.50 Photo opportunity 14.05 – 14.45 Televised MotoGP Practice session 14.45 – 15.00 BMW award ceremony 15.15 – 18.00 Free Practice 4 Circuit de Catalunya: Lap record: Sete Gibernau (Honda), 1m44.641s, 162.624 km/h (101.050 mph) Pole position 2004: Sete Gibernau (Honda), 1m 42.596s Inaugurated in 1991 Modified in 1995 Length: 4.727 km. Length of pit straight: 1.047 km Corners left: 5 Corners right: 8
