From a press release issued by CMRA:

Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association Championship Series
Round 1
Oak Hill Raceway
Henderson, TX
Feb. 19-20, 2005

Ty Howard claimed over $4500 in CMRA purse and Kawasaki contingency money at round one of the 2005 CMRA Championship Roadracing Series held at Oak Hill Raceway near Henderson, Texas this weekend. The opening round of the series was well attended with 552 sprint entries, 45 mini sprint entries and 31 mini endurance teams gracing the grids over the two days of action, despite off-and-on rain, which kept track conditions constantly changing.

The Kawasaki-mounted Howard won four of the five sprint events he entered on Sunday, after crashing out while leading the A Superstock Expert race, and was pushed hard by Heath Small and Craig Montgomery throughout Sunday’s sprint action. Howard claimed wins in the Racing Performance Services B Superstock Expert race, which paid a $150 purse, the C Superstock Expert race, which paid a $500 purse, the Raceworx C Superbike Expert race, which paid a $150 purse and the Pace American Trailers Formula One Expert race, which paid a $1000 purse.

Small claimed the $175 Fast Lap bounty sponsored by Mr. Corder Racing for the fastest Sunday lap time when he turned a 1.23.378 in the C Superbike Expert race, a race that was won by Howard. The lap record is 1:22.565, set last year by Michael Sanchez. Small also added wins in the Motorcycles Unlimited-sponsored A Superbike Expert race and the B Superbike Expert race.

Other money winners included Will Gruy, who also won four Expert events, including the South Central Race Center D Superbike Expert, Unlimited Super Motard, Super Motard and Lightweight Twins Expert classes.

Ronnie Lunsford took top prize money in the AF1 Racing Heavyweight Twins Expert race then later added a win in the Formula 40 Expert race.

Craig Montgomery won the Sum Of All Parts-sponsored A Superstock Expert race, featuring a $150 purse, while Tyler McDonald grabbed a win in the 125cc GP race ($250 purse).

Cory Burleson was the class of the Novice divisions, taking wins in the A Superstock, B Superstock, B Superbike, C Superstock, C Superbike, D Superbike and D Superstock Novice races.

Additional Expert winners include Chase Vivion (Formula 2 Expert), Chris Vinson (Classic Unlimited), Zac Chapman (Formula CMRA Lightweight), Dustin Dominguez (D Superstock Expert), Scott Levine (Formula 40 LW), David Petitpas (Classic Superbike), Chris Vinson (Formula CMRA HW) and Michael Humphries (Formula CMRA MW).

On Saturday, the Mini Sprints hit the track with Tyler McDonald winning first place money in the $250 Formula 4 race, while Kelly Tompkins was top rider in the Formula 6 division. Derrick Wagnon took the win in the Formula 5 race and Dirk Anderson won the Formula 7 race.

After the Mini Sprint action, the Shogun Motorsports Mini Endurance Series, which featured a $500 purse got underway in a light rain. Team K&N #1 won the overall and the Formula 4 class during the 4-hour event, while Team Extreme Powers won the AF1 Racing Formula Mini Endurance Formula 5 class, which featured a $250 purse. The Formula 6 division was won by Team Crossroads Honda and the Formula 7 class was topped by Team Excel.

The CMRA returns to action on March 19-20 at Motorsport Ranch near Cresson, Texas.

From a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

CONFIDENCE HIGH IN WINSTON TEN KATE SUPERSPORT TEAM

Winston Ten Kate Honda’s two World Supersport championship riders, Sébastien Charpentier and Katsuaki Fujiwara, declared themselves confident for next weekend’s (26 Feb) first round after completing a two-day test in Doha, Qatar today.

Charpentier was able to improve his time from yesterday’s first day by half a second to stay on top of the official timing sheets, while Fujiwara climbed to 5th place as he continues to become accustomed to his new Honda machinery.

“I’m very happy today,” said Charpentier, “as we were able to do some longer distance runs in order to simulate the race conditions that we expect next Saturday. I tried two possible set-ups today and think that I can improve my lap time even more with the best one.”

As well, as learning about his new CBR600RR, Fujiwara is, like all his fellow competitors, still learning his way around the 5.38km Losail circuit on the outskirts of Doha. He is also confident about the championship’s first round.

“What gives me the most confidence,” he said, “is that I was able to maintain similar lap times right the way through an extended 12-lap run. I tried to put in a fast lap but made a small mistake, which shows me I still have things to learn about the bike and the track!”

Losail Circuit – Doha, Qatar, day two times (World Supersport):
1.Sébastien Charpentier, FRA (Winston Ten Kate Honda) – 86 laps, 2m 04.259s
2.Fabien Foret, FRA (Honda) – 89 laps, 2:05.083
3.Kevin Curtain, AUS (Yamaha) – 57 laps, 2:05.194
4.Michel Fabrizio, ITA (Honda) – 83 laps, 2:05.295
5.Katsuaki Fujiwara, JAP (Winston Ten Kate Honda) – 88 laps, 2m 05.662s
6.Gianluca Nannelli, ITA (Ducati) – 67 laps, 2:05.917
7.Stephane Chambon, FRA (Honda) – 71 laps, 2:06.271
8.Broc Parkes, AUS (Yamaha) – 78 laps, 2:06.436
9.Xavi Fores, SPA (Suzuki) – 97 laps, 2:06.582
10.Christophe Cogan (FRA (Suzuki) – 75 laps, 2:06.777


More, from a press release issued by FGSport Group:

WORLD SUPERSPORT
Winston Ten Kate Honda rider Sebastien Charpentier set his fastest time of the test in the first session on Sunday morning, and it proved the fastest one of all, at 2’04.259. His countryman, and 2002 World Champion Fabien Foret (Team Megabike), scored a second place overall, improving his best to a 2’05.083. Top Yamaha runner was the officially supported Aussie Kevin Curtain (Yamaha Motor Germany) despite him falling and twisting his knee on the previous day. Michel Fabrizio (Team Italia Megabike Honda) slotted in fourth, putting his Team Megabike machine on what would be a front row grid position in normal qualifying. Top Ducati man was tireless charger Gianluca Nannelli, who finished his two days on an SC Caracchi Ducati sixth. Young Spaniard Javier Fores scored a top ten time riding an Alstare Corona Extra Suzuki.

Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

World Superbike
Test
Losail Circuit, Qatar
Official Best Overall Lap Times:

1. Yukio Kagayama, Suz GSX-R1000, 102 laps, 2:01.480
2. Troy Corser, Suz GSX-R1000, 101 laps, 2:01.554
3. Jose Luis Cardoso, Yam YZF-R1, 86 laps, 2:01.797
4. Regis Laconi, Duc 999F05, 118 laps, 2:01.827
5. Sebastien Gimbert, Yam YZF-R1, 113 laps, 2:01.956
6. Alberola Ivan Silva, Yam YZF-R1, 127 laps, 2:02.194
7. Chris Walker, Kaw ZX-10R, 91 laps, 2:02.442
8. Marco Borciani, Yam YZF-R1, 96 laps, 2:02.548
9. Noriyuki Haga, Yam YZF-R1, 98 laps, 2:02.591
10. James Toseland, Duc 999F05, 85 laps, 2:02.639
11. Norick Abe, Yam YZF-R1, 147 laps, 2:02.652
12. Andrew Pitt, Yam YZF-R1, 114 laps, 2:02.713
13. Lorenzo Lanzi, Duc 999RS, 108 laps, 2:02.923
14. Pierfrancesco Chilil, Hon CBR1000RR, 83 laps, 2:03.008
15. Chris Vermeulen, Hon CBR1000RR, 39 laps, 2:03.072
16. Gianluca Vizziello, Yam YZF-R1, 120 laps, 2:03.095
17. Karl Muggeridge, Hon CBR1000RR, 68 laps, 2:03.391
18. Mauro Sanchini, Kaw ZX-10R, 109 laps, 2:03.398
19. Giovanni Bussei, Kaw ZX-10R, 96 laps, 2:03.602
20. Fonsi Nieto, Duc 999RS, 128 laps, 2:03.659
21. Max Neukirchner, Hon CBR1000RR, 122 laps, 2:03.874
22. Lucio Pedercini, Duc 999RS, 92 laps, 2:04.048
23. Ben Bostrom, Hon CBR1000RR, 83 laps, 2:04.285
24. Steve Martin, Foggy Petronas FP1, 107 laps, 2:04.483
25. Alessio Velini, Duc 999RS, 103 laps, 2:04.864
26. Ivan Clementi, Kaw ZX-10R, 65 laps, 2:05.047
27. Garry McCoy, Foggy Petronas FP1, 87 laps, 2:05.455
28. Miguel Praia, Yam YZF-R1, 103 laps, 2:05.472
29. Talal Al Nuami, Yam YZF-R1, 106 laps, 2:10.263


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

MORE TO COME FROM SUPERBIKE DUO

The flu that dogged Chris Vermeulen on yesterday’s first day of the official World Superbike test at Doha, Qatar spread to his team-mate Karl Muggeridge today, as Japanese rider Yukio Kagayama set the pace prior to next Saturday’s opening championship round.

The Winston Ten Kate Honda pair struggled for fitness on their Honda CBR1000RRs on the 5.38km Losail circuit and Vermeulen was able to add only 22 laps to the 17 he completed yesterday. Muggeridge, meanwhile, succumbed to the virus himself and sat out today’s morning session.

“Some riders have done well over 100 laps, but I’ve barely done 40,” said Vermeulen, “and I’ve struggled to do those. I know there’s more to come but only when I’m feeling better. The circuit’s good and the bike has had a lot more to offer than I’ve had over the last two days. It’ll be different when we’re back here on Thursday.”

Team-mate Muggeridge agreed, saying: “It’s frustrating – we’ve basically lost today because I’ve been feeling so rough and that’s not what you need when you’re getting used to a new bike and a new circuit. But it’s next weekend that matters and that’s what we’ll be working towards after I spend the next couple of days in bed.”

Winston Ten Kate Honda team manager, Ronald ten Kate, was philosophical about the lack of track time for his two superbike riders. “We may be two days behind the rest here,” he said, “but we only need to be a tenth of a second ahead at the end of next Saturday’s two races. The bikes are capable of quicker times than we’ve achieved so far, but so are the riders when they’re fully fit.”

Losail Circuit – Doha, Qatar, day two combined times (World Superbike):
1.Yukio Kagayama, JAP (Suzuki) – total 102 laps, 2m01.480s
2.Troy Corser, AUS (Suzuki) – 101 laps, 2:01.554
3.Jose Luis Cardoso, ESP (Yamaha)– 86 laps, 2:01.797
4.Regis Laconi, FRA (Ducati) – 118 laps, 2:01.827
5.Sébastien Gimbert, FRA (Yamaha) – 113 laps, 201.951
6.Ivan Silva Alberola, ESP (Yamaha) – 127 laps, 2:02.194
7.Chris Walker, GBR (Kawasaki) – 91 laps, 2:02.442
8. Marco Borciani, ITA (Yamaha) – 96 laps, 2:02.548
9.Noriyuki Haga, JAP (Yamaha) – 98 laps, 2:02.591
10.James Toseland, GBR (Ducati) – 85 laps, 2:02.639
15.Chris Vermeulen, AUS (Winston Ten Kate Honda) – 39 laps, 2:03.072
17.Karl Muggeridge, AUS (Winston Ten Kate Honda) – 68 laps, 2:03.391


More, from a press release issued by FGSport Group:

FGSport OFFICIAL PRE-SEASON TESTING – LOSAIL CIRCUIT, QATAR 19-20 FEBRUARY 2005

Final Day: The last day of testing before the World Superbike Championship kicks off at Losail in Qatar provided better track conditions for all 29 Superbike riders, and most made good use of their opportunities to set much improved lap times overall. The Suzuki pairing of SBK rookie Yukio Kagayama and his Alstare Corona Extra team-mate Troy Corser (suffering from the flu somewhat) went 1-2 in the timing sheets overall, with Kagayama setting an excellent best of 2’01.480 on his GSX-R1000, posted late in the final session.

Close Competition: With so many bikes gathering on the Superbike grid come the start of practice on Thursday 24th February, a good morale-boosting performance was a keen desire for all comers. With the top two Suzukis not just fast but consistently fast, the figure of Jose Luis Cardoso (Yamaha DFX Extreme) proved the closest challenger, going third quickest, with a 2’01.797 lap. The factory Xerox Ducati 999F05 of Regis Laconi recovered from some early setbacks to post fourth best time. World Champion James Toseland experienced a fast highside crash at turn 13 his Xerox Ducati, causing his team some concern, until a visit to the medical centre proved him cleared of any fractures. He was seen later walking around pitlane at close of play, ready to make a quick recovery for the first rounds of his title defence, having dropped to tenth fastest.

Almost There: Sebastien Gimbert (Yamaha Motor France) secured a magnificent fifth place, having led the ranking with only minutes of the final 2 hours and 20 minute session remaining. Gimbert is a full time SBK rookie, but a veteran of some excellent performances at Brands Hatch and Magny Cours last year. On a good day for riders new to the championship, wildcard Spaniard Ivan Silva Albertola (La Glisse Yamaha) went sixth fastest, another SBK star in the making.

Top Kwak: Chris Walker (PSG-1 Kawasaki ZX-10) ran out a promising seventh, no mean feat in what is proving to be a closely contested series for all riders. He was within one second of Kagayama’s leading time, with a 2’02.442. To underline the fact that the Qatar race and the 2005 Superbike series in general will be an unpredictable affair, Marco Borciani (DFX Yamaha) made a big jump from 25th on day one to eighth on day two, one place ahead of Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia) and two up on the luckless Toseland. Two more big names, Norick Abe (Yamaha Motor France) and Andrew Pitt (Yamaha Motor Italia) found the pace tough and had to settle for 11th and 12th respectively. Lorenzo Lanzi (Scuderia Caracchi Ducati) fought hard for his 13th place in the run-up to his rookie SBK race.

Honda Riders Struggle: A flu virus, rampant in the pit garages at Losail, claimed the best efforts of Karl Muggeridge (Winston Ten Kate Honda) and his team-mate Chris Vermeulen. With their heavily modified bikes unable to show their best due to their riders’ illness, Pierfrancesco Chili

(Klaffi Honda) took his hastily prepared machine, without a full race spec as yet, to 14th, the top Honda slot over the two days. Vermeulen was 15th, Muggeridge 17th, after posting a very small lap count. Ben Bostrom (Renegade Honda Koji) ended 23rd overall.

Fonsi Drops Down: Fonsi Nieto (Scuderia Ducati 999RS) slipped down the order after a bright showing on day one, ending his two days in 20th place. Rookie of the year max Neukirchner, on a roadbike engined Klaffi Honda, was 21st overall, happy with his induction into the bigger class.

Tough Time For Aussie Pair: Foggy Petronas FP-1 three-cylinder riders Steve Martin and Garry McCoy had torrid times against the more powerful 1000cc machines, taking their 900cc machines to only 24th and 27th places.


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DUCATI XEROX TEAM IN ACTION AT QATAR: LACONI FOURTH QUICKEST – TOSELAND ON THE PACE BUT CRASHES

Losail (Qatar), Sunday 20 February: Régis Laconi and James Toseland (Ducati Xerox Team) wrapped up their preparations for the 2005 World Superbike Championship with fourth and tenth quickest times respectively as the FGSport-organised pre-season tests at the Losail circuit in Qatar drew to a close.

All the WSBK contenders were again able to lap in perfect conditions today and accumulate a further five hours of valuable practice time prior to the race next Saturday. Both Laconi and Toseland were among the front-runners as the Suzuki pairing of Yukio Kagayama and Troy Corser ended up first and second fastest.

Day 2 saw Toseland suffer a nasty highside right after the British rider had set a quick lap of 2:02.639 early in the afternoon session. The world champion was going through the fast right-hander turn 13 when he lost the rear of his Ducati 999F05 and was catapulted into the air. Toseland landed heavily and suffered bruising to his left elbow and right upper backside.

“I was going into the second of the three successive fast right-handers and the rear let go,” explained Toseland. “I just looped over and landed on my side. I’ve never been up that high before!. Everything’s OK, I just need a couple of days rest, that’s all and then I’ll be back. It’s a pity really, because the bike felt a lot better this afternoon and it was unlucky to cancel out the progress we had made”.

Régis Laconi made a major improvement today during his long-run to move into fourth. He then consolidated his position in the afternoon with a lap of 2:01.827, a time he set on the one Pirelli qualifying tyre available for each rider.

“We worked very hard, the most important thing today was to have the durability in the front tyre and I am very happy with that after setting a good time on lap 17 of the long-run in the afternoon. We have to find a bit more speed now that we have durability, but the feeling is coming good and we made good progress from yesterday. Like everyone else we put a soft tyre on in the end and the lap time was good. We did a lot of testing but it’s very nice to be fast at the finish. Now we have to wait and see what will happen on Saturday”, declared Laconi.

The opening round of the 2005 world championship at the Losail circuit gets underway later this week, with free practice and qualifying taking place on Thursday and Friday and the two 18-lap races scheduled for Saturday.

OFFICIAL TIMES: 1. Kagayama (Suzuki) 2:01.480; 2. Corser (Suzuki) 2:01.554; 3. Cardoso (Yamaha) 2:01.797; 4. Laconi (Ducati Xerox) 2:01.827; 5. Gimbert (Yamaha) 2:01.956; 6. Silva Alberola (Yamaha) 2:02.194; 7. Walker (Kawasaki) 2:02.442; 8. Borciani (Yamaha) 2:02.584; 9. Haga (Yamaha) 2:02.591; 10. Toseland (Ducati Xerox) 2:02.639; etc.


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

FPR’s Aussie Pairing Complete Valuable Qatar Test

The Australian pair of Steve Martin and Garry McCoy completed a valuable second day of testing at Losail circuit in Doha, Qatar, with significant improvements on their fastest laps of yesterday with times of 2:04.483 and 2:05.455 respectively.

Yukio Kagayama was the fastest of the expanded World Superbike grid with a lap of 2:01.480 around the 5.380km circuit in the desert.

The eight hours of testing over the two days provided invaluable set-up data for the team’s Australian pair, who have been short of experience on the PETRONAS FP1, in advance of the first round of the season at the same circuit later this week.

Jack said: “We’ve had another positive day of testing and what we’ve achieved in just eight hours is really useful. Our main concentration was to get the optimum set up for this track and the riders’ preferences. A lot of data has been collected and we’re at a point where the over all package is working well and the set up we’ve achieved today we’ll use for the race weekend, which for us has been far more important than chasing lap times. Now we’ll only have fine tuning adjustments to make at the race which will provide us with more track time for running longer sets of laps.”

Steve said: “We continued our set up work from yesterday and particularly this morning, made some really good changes, to a point where I’m happy we’ve tested everything we possibly could have and found a good base setting for the race here. This afternoon’s progress was a bit slower as although we made some good moves, I wasn’t on the roll I had been on and also had a full tank of fuel on board. There’s still a bit more work I want to do on braking but other than that I’m feeling confident on the bike. Due to an incident on track I wasn’t able to make full use of my qualifying tyre which is really annoying, as I know I could have been in the 2:03s if I’d have had a clear lap on that.”

Garry said: “We continued this morning where we left off yesterday, trying to get a good base setting for this track and also my riding style. I’m happy that we’re pretty close now which is where I wanted to be at the end of this test, as for me, this is my first full test on the FP1. We’ve got a bit of work left to do to make both my bikes feel exactly the same but I know we can get this right in time for the race. I think this track will be a bit tough for us as we’re just that little bit down on power, although the bike’s handling is good so that gives us an advantage.”

The first round of the Superbike World Championship starts on Thursday 24 February, with race day on Saturday, 26 February.


More, from a press release issued by Scuderia SC Caracchi Ducati:

FIRST DIRECT CHALLENGE IN QATAR TESTS

On the 5380 meters of Losail circuit, close to the capital Doha in Qatar’s desert, the World Superbike and Supersport teams have had the first direct confrontation of the 2005 racing season.

A two-day test on this track, almost new for everybody, apart from a few riders moved in this season from GPs championship to Superbike arena which have the possibility to contest Qatar GP next fall. Big job for all the teams for setting the suspension and to select the tyre looking at the first round of the championship next week end. The sable flying from the desert onto the track, as well the surface has continuously cleaned, is a tyre-killer and the tyres go on just a few laps when the suspensions don’t work pefectly.

In Supersport Gianluca Nannelli, after the troubles with the front during the morning session, scored in the afternoon session a very good fifth fastest. The team and the rider made a big setting job and now the rear of the 749r Ducati is perfect. Go on some uncertainty in the front and the team will focus to solve tomorrow, in the final test day.

“We must believe this test the first ever on the 749R”. – said Gianluca Nannelli at the end of the test today. “We had never been able to test on dry conditions and it was important to verify all the work still made by the team. The bike scored the fastest top speed of all the group, thank the work made by Franco Farnè. The set up is quite good too, I’m the fastest in the first intermediate, then in the second I have not feeling with the front and I lose time from my rivals. I’m however quite satisfied for the result we got today, if we’ll be able to solve the front problem I’m confident we’ll earn a better position.”

In Superbike more as positive the debut of Fonsi Nieto, who on the 999RS made only some lap in wet condition during the Valencia test. The Spanish rider grabbed the fifth fastest, just a second behind the leader and ending before several factory bikes, carrying out a big work and running 61 laps to look the best feeling with a bike so different the machines he’s used before. Among other things Fonsi doesn’r ride street bikes, so the four stroke engine is totally new for him.

A bit behind Lorenzo Lanzi on the second 999RS. Despite the very good top speed (Lanzi was the fastest in the morning and the second fastest overall) the Italian rider has not been able to find a satisfying set up, which will try to find in the final day tomorrow.

Despite that Stefano Caracchi, SC Caracchi team owner della squadra, looks satisfied: “Lorenzo found more difficulties as he was expecting on this track very difficult for the tyres”. – commented the test day Caracchi. “But he’s a rider with great potential and I’m confident that, thank his crew work, he’ll be able to solve the today’s trouble and reach the position he deserves. Fonsi has been fantastic! We must remember that he made just a couple of day test under the rain in Valencia on the999RS and he rode just a second slower as the leader. We have a great trust in him, Fonsi is a great rider and just he’ll find the necessary feeling with the bike he’ll be one of the heroes of the racing season.”

Superbike – Saturday Test

1st Cardoso (Yamaha) 2’02.618; 2nd Corser (Suzuki) 2’03.044; 3rd Kagayama (Suzuki) 2’03.309; 4th Toseland (Ducati) 2’03.347; 5th Fonsi Nieto (Ducati SC Caracchi) 2’03.759; 6th Muggeridge (Honda) 2’03.870; 7th Walker (Kawasaki) 2’03.927; 8th Gimbert (Yamaha) 2’03.999; 9th Laconi (Ducati) 2’04.011; 10th Silva 2’04.077;…19th Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati SC Caracchi GA) 2’05.004

Supersport – Saturday Test

1st Charpentier (Honda) 2’04.716; 2nd Fabrizio (Honda) 2’05.982; 3rd Curtain (Yamaha) 2’06.397; 4th Parkes (Honda) 2’06.758; 5th Gianluca Nannelli (Ducati SC Caracchi) 2’06.960; 6th Chambon (Honda) 2’07.348; 7th Foret (Honda) 2’07.531; 8th Fujiwara (Honda) 2’07.812; 9th Cogan (Suzuki) 2’08.147; 10th Fores (Suzuki) 2’08.717


More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

KAGAYAMA TOPS QATAR TESTS

Team Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra riders Yukio Kagayama and Troy Corser topped the World Superbike tests in Qatar today with Kagayama deposing his team mate with 10 minutes to go.

The Japanese rider had been second quickest to Corser all day on his new GSX-R1000 Suzuki, but just as the sun was setting over the desert behind the grandstand, he blasted round the 5.380 kilometre circuit a tenth of a second faster.

At the end of the two days, both Yukio and Troy were happy about how the tests had gone and were feeling positive about the season-opening race next weekend at the Losail circuit.

The only note of caution, according to the Alstare team, is the varying condition of the track: Over the past two days, the World Superbike and Supersport riders had put down quite a bit of rubber and grip level has improved considerably. But now there are three days of inaction and so the first day of practice on Thursday this week may once again see the teams back to stage one.

However, Yukio and Troy’s performances over the two days have been impressive and has also fired an early-warning shot to their competitors.

YUKIO KAGAYAMA – Best lap, 2:01.480:

“I am very happy with everything we have done over these two days and I want to thank my team for all the good work they have done and all the help they have given me. We have tried many different things and many different tyres and now I hope that the condition of the track will be as good, if not better. If conditions improve, it may be possible for me to go quicker, but we will have to wait and see. At the moment, I am still learning about the Pirellis and the limit so I know there is more to come from me. For the race, my plan is the same as always: Head down, full gas and ride my maximum. It is the only way I know!”

TROY CORSER – Best lap, 2:01.554:

“I’m happy that we finished 1-2 because it is a good reward to the team for all the work and effort we have all done. I had a sneaky feeling that Yukio might go a bit quicker at the end and I might have had a chance to go a bit quicker, but Cardoso was waiting for me and looking for a tow, so I eased-off at the end. We’ve done a lot of work with altering the mapping and improved it considerably, though there’s more to do. We also made chassis and suspension changes – not big changes – and we’ve improved in that area as well.

“There are still a couple of sections on the track where I know I can go quicker, so Yukio had better watch out! Each day the track has felt different, so it’s been really good to have some understanding about how it behaves. If it changes next week, hopefully we’ll have the info to respond quickly and keep ahead of the rest. Here’s to it!”

Overall best times (2 days):

1 Yukio Kagayama (J-Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) 2:01.480, 2 Troy Corser (Aus-Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) 2:01.554, 3 Cardoso (E-Yamaha) 2:01.797, 4 Laconi (F-Ducati) 2:01.827, 5 Gimbert (F-Yamaha) 2:01.956, 6 Silva Aberola (E-Yamaha) 2:02.194, 7 Walker (GB-Kawasaki) 2:02.442, 8 Borciani (I-Yamaha) 2:02.548, 9 Haga (J-Yamaha) 2:02.591, 10 Toseland (GB-Ducati) 2:02.639,


FORES ON THE PACE:

Team Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra rider Xavier Fores finished the Qatar tests with the ninth fastest time, but was happy about the prospects ahead.

He and the team worked hard during the two days and gathered a lot of useful information, whilst learning the track and getting used to Pirelli tyres.

XAVI FORES – Best lap, 2:06.582:

“We came here to learn the bike, track and the tyres and I feel happy because we have made a lot of progress in just these two days. The track definitely got better today and the grip improved s o I began to feel a bit more confident about it.

“Over the two days, we changed the balance of the bike to try and improve my feeling and I’m happy because we made some steps forward. Today the bike was easier to change direction and at the end, I was happy enough with my lap times, all things considered.”

Overall best laps:

1 Charpentier (F-Honda) 2:04.259, 2 Foret (F-Honda) 2:05.083, 3 Curtain (Aus-Yamaha) 2:05.194, 4 Fabrizio (I-Honda) 2:05.295, 5 Fujiwara (J-Honda) 2:05.662. 9 Xavier Fores (E-Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) 2:06.582.

From a press release issued by Daytona International Speedway:

Dave Mason to Join John Kay in Double Headline Show


DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., — Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason will join John Kay and Steppenwolf to play Kickstand City in the infield of historic Daytona International Speedway, Wednesday, March 9 during Daytona Bike Week.

Mason was added to the show to give the Daytona Bike Week crowd a double dose of classic Rock and Roll at the height of Bike Week.

At age 18, Mason teamed with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood to form Traffic. At 19, he penned the song “Feelin’ Alright” which has since become a rock anthem, having been recorded by more than 50 artists, the best known version being Joe Cocker. Traffic’s profound influence over rock music is unquestioned even today.

In 1969, Mason took a solo career to the United States and scored a gold album with “Alone Together,” which is widely considered to be a rock classic.

Four of his next five albums went gold and “Let It Flow,” exceeded platinum standing with the top-ten single “We Just Disagree.”

Mason has performed on other bands’ albums including The Rolling Stones’ “Beggar’s Banquet,” George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass,” Paul McCartney’s “Listen To What The Man Said” and Jimi Hendrix’s “Electric Ladyland.”

Mason joined Fleetwood Mac in 1993 and toured extensively with them. His lead vocals are featured on the songs “Blow By Blow” and “I Wonder Why” on Fleetwood Mac’s “Time” album.

Kickstand City at Daytona will provide overnight parking and nightly concerts each day of Bike Week in the infield at Daytona International Speedway. Woodruff said more concert announcements will be coming soon. More information is available at www.kickstandcity.com.

From a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki:

Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 lives up to the hype

RIZLA SUZUKI finished its test at Valencia in Spain today and is confident the all-new GSX-R1000K5 can live up to its pre-season media hype.

Rizla Suzuki racer Scott Smart put the GSX-R1000K5 through its paces for more than 150-laps of the 4.005km Valencia circuit during the two-day test. Despite high winds today, he finished the test and told the team that the bike was every bit as good as the hype that has surrounded it since its launch late last year.

Smart spent the day testing various engine and chassis components and further refining his riding position. He lost the front end of his Rizla Suzuki and crashed at the same corner that caught his team mate John Reynolds out yesterday but walked away unscathed. He finished the test happy with his base setting and is eager to ride again.

After crashing at turn six yesterday, British Superbike Champion JR is now in Valencia General Hospital with his right leg in a cast after breaking his tibia and fibula. He will be flown by private plane to England tomorrow and will then be transferred to Queens Medical Facility in his hometown of Nottingham. He will meet a team of specialists on Monday to determine the best treatment for as quick a recovery as possible.

Team Rizla Suzuki will now return to the UK to continue its test schedule and further development of the GSX-R1000K5. The British Superbike Championship starts on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th, at the popular Brands Hatch circuit in Kent.

Scott Smart:
“That was a very busy day on track and I don’t mind admitting that I am absolutely shattered. We had so many things to test that it was always going to be hard work, but the guys kept me working to a schedule and we finished with plenty of useable data.

“Once that information is analysed back at the workshop we will have plenty of direction on what is working and what isn’t and will start our next test from a very strong baseline. That is exactly what the team wanted to achieve from this Valencia test.

“I can tell everyone the GSX-R1000K5 is every bit as good as the hype that has surrounded it. We have only scratched the surface at this test but it already has the feel of an accomplished race bike and once we get it dialed in and go for lap times, I think it is going to be awesome.”

Robert Wicks, team manager:
“We leave this test with confirmation that the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 is as good as we dared hope and absolutely delighted in how well Scott has taken to the team as well as his consistently fast lap times despite the windy conditions.

“As Scott has completed more and more laps we have watched him grow increasingly comfortable on his Rizla Suzuki. We are leaving the test in a strong position with him and once his technicians make the changes he has requested, it will be important to have him testing again to further develop the GSX-R1000.

“We have made a plan with JR to get him back to England from Spain and in front of a team of top fracture specialists as early as possible. One thing is for sure, JR’s determination to get back to fitness is second to none and he will have the best medical treatment to support him.”

From a press release issued by Foggy Petronas Racing:

FPR Boys Back On Track At Losail

New Foggy PETRONAS Racing pair Steve Martin and Garry McCoy made use of the first day of the official Superbike World Championship winter test at Qatar to become re-acquainted with the PETRONAS FP1.

Completing 55 and 41 laps respectively, Steve set a fastest time of 2:05.984 while Garry was within three hundredth of a second of his team-mate with a time of 2:06.015. Jose Luis Cardosa was the surprise front runner with a lap time of 2:02.628.

The FPR men, riding the FP1 for the first time since their initial outing at Valencia in November, took advantage of warm and sunny conditions to learn the fast and flowing Losail circuit, 25km from the Qatar capital, Doha.

Steve said: “I am happy with today because, after three months, it is like riding a completely different bike again. But I think we are starting to make steps forward. We know what the problems are and we are fixing them, so every time I get on we make an improvement. I think this is the sort of track where, when the bike is right, you can find a lot of time. I think I know the circuit pretty well now as I did quite a few laps today. And I think the circuit is going to make for an interesting race – it’s just a pity it’s so slippery off line as people aren’t going to want to go off line to pass. We have been making changes to the general run of the mill stuff, not only to suit the circuit but also to find the setting I like. I was going consistently two seconds a lap quicker in the afternoon, so the times indicate that we are going in the right direction.”

Garry said: “The bike needed a little bit of work for this track and I didn’t really get a chance to get a feeling or set-up when I was last on it at Valencia in November. So we have pretty much come here as though this is day one for me. We have made a lot of changes and found out what’s good and what’s bad, mainly working with the suspension at the front and rear, clutch settings and mapping. I did have a good feeling for the circuit but because we have been trying so many things it’s hard to go into the corners with confidence. So I haven’t been able to just ride round. But the race is next week! We have still a bit of a way to go but I definitely feel we are going in the right direction.”

Day one times, WSBK test, Qatar: 1 Cardosa (DFX) 2:02.618; 2 Corser (Alstare Suzuki Corona Extra) 2:03.044; 3 Kagayama (Alstare Suzuki) 2:03.309; 4 Toseland (Ducati Xerox) 2:03.759; 5 Nieto (Ducati Carrachi) 2:03.870; 6 Muggeridge (Winston Ten Kate Honda) 2:03.870; 7 Walker (PSG-1 Kawasaki) 2:03.927; 8 Gimbert (Yamaha France) 2:03.999; 9 Laconi (Ducati Xerox) 2:04.011; 10 Silva Alberosa (La Glisse) 2:04.077; 21 Martin (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 2:06.015; 22 McCoy (Foggy PETRONAS Racing) 2:06.015


More, from a press release issued by FGSport Group:

Pre Season Test – Losail Circuit, Qatar 19 – 20 February 2004


Day One: The magnificent facility that is the Losail International Circuit in Qatar hosted its first sessions of World Superbike Championship testing action today, in the warm and dry conditions that typify this promontory of land jutting into the Arabian Gulf.


Big Turn Out: a large field of World Superbike and World Supersport competitors enjoyed Qatar’s first SBK experience, each making their final preparations for raceday itself, which takes place on Saturday 26th February. Twenty-nine Superbikes and eighteen Supersport machines were in attendance on day one.


Quick Quixote: Fastest on day one proved to be Jose Luis Cardoso (DFX Yamaha), overcoming the tricky early conditions, in which lack of use had left the track covered in a film of dust and reduced in ultimate grip. As the track improved the times tumbled, with whole seconds taken from most rider’s best times between the morning and afternoon sessions.


Six Of The Best: Of great importance in the run up to the start of the season is the fact that all the volume motorcycle manufacturers in World Superbike this year – Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha – have bikes well capable of winning at the first 2005 attempt. In large part this is due to the close technical regulations and Pirelli spec tyres, designed to allow universal participation at a high level. Arguably the 900cc three-cylinder Petronas machine is the most technologically interesting of all the entries in World Superbike, and this year two such machines will be omnipresent again, bringing the total of manufacturers in the series to six.


Yamaha Top, Suzuki Chasing: Yamaha has not only the most numerous entries in the championship, but at this first attempt, the fastest rider on show as well – Iberian wizard Jose Luis Cardoso, the reigning Spanish Formula Extreme champion. A veteran of the R1 from his winning 2004 season, Cardoso set a best lap time of 2:02.618, holding off the attentions of Troy Corser (Alstare Corona Extra Suzuki) and his team mate and SBK season rookie, Yukio Kagayama, by over 0.4 and 0.7 seconds respectively. Kagayama has been a leading light in the British series for the past two years, and is the highest-placed rider to have had previous experience of racing at the unique Losail circuit. Despite this, he fell from his Suzuki in the early morning, without injury.


Ducati Demons: The Xerox Ducati 999F05 machines of reigning champion James Toseland and vice-champion Regis Laconi took Englishman Toseland to fourth and Frenchman Laconi ninth on the time sheets. Toseland, out to defend his crown against possibly the most competitive field in the championship’s history, had a small moment in the early morning, crashed in the afternoon, but praised both the track layout and way that its grip improved as the testing traffic increased, cleaning the surface with each lap that passed.


New Nieto: Fonsi Nieto (Ducati SC Caracchi) showed his intentions from the start, ending his day with a best time of 2:03.759, good enough for fifth fastest overall. The Spanish superstar has been a welcome addition to the Superbike field this off-season, and with previous experience of the Losail circuit, he should be on the pace from the very first race of 2005.


Honda Effort Led By Rookie: The early showings of 2004 World Supersport Champion Karl Muggeridge (Winston Ten Kate Honda) were a positive first step for one of Ten Kate’s Aussie fliers, especially as race eve approaches. Despite falling he was sixth fastest overall, from 29 riders on track, Muggeridge fared better than his team-mate Chris Vermeulen. The latter, a four-time race winner in 2004, was struck down by a flu infection, setting 18th fastest time in only 17 laps. Pierfrancesco Chili (Klaffi Honda) was getting used to his new bike once more, finishing 16th fastest and suffering a fall, while Ben Bostrom’s return to the Superbike fray on the Renegade Honda saw him only 28th overall, currently six seconds from the best pace.


K-Band Rider: Kawasaki rider Chris Walker showed that even some imperfect chassis settings on his ZX-10 were not enough to hold him back, setting seventh best time and completing the roll of honour for the major manufacturers in the top positions. His time of 2:03.947 was a boost fore the entire PSG-1 team, which has not had the chance to measure itself against its main rivals on many occasions this winter. The top ten was completed by Sebastien Gimbert (Yamaha Motor France IOPNE), Laconi, and wild card rider Ivan Silva Alberola (La Glisse Yamaha).


Other Top Riders: The Yamaha Motor Italia squad, featuring Andrew Pitt and Noriyuki Haga, slotted in a surprisingly lowly 11th and 12th respectively. Mauro Sanchini (Walker’s PSG-1 Kawasaki team-mate) went 13th fastest on the lurid yellow PSG-1 Kawasaki. Norick Abe (Yamaha Motor France-IPONE), whom many expected to be one of the outright quickest riders in the opening sessions, given his previous experience of the Qatar circuit, was only 14th fastest, albeit only 1.5 seconds down on Cardoso. The top 14 riders all finished within two seconds of Cardoso.


Petronas Pairing: The Foggy Petronas FP-1 three cylinder machine scored two podiums in 2004, but on first showing the 2005 season will be a very tough one for the Aussie pairing of Garry McCoy and Steve Martin. The latter scored the best Petronas time of day, 2:05.984, for 21st fastest, with McCoy one place behind.


One Day: With one complete day of testing remaining to run, the current first day times may mean little come tomorrow evening. As Sunday 20th is the last chance each team will have before qualifying begins for real on Thursday 24th February, Sunday will be the final guide to just how the inaugural Qatar World Superbike race will turn out.


In the World Supersport championship, Ten Kate Honda rider Sebastien Charpentier took the top spot, with a 2:04.716 lap, almost 1.2 seconds better than second place rider Michel Fabrizio (Team Italia Megabike Honda). Just outside the 2:05 minute laps, Kevin Curtain was the third quickest rider on display, the leading light in the factory Yamaha Motor Germany team. His team-mate Broc Parkes was 0.4 seconds down, with Ducati rider Gianluca Nannelli (SC Caracchi Ducati) fifth. Two former World Champions, both from France, slotted in sixth and seventh fastest, with Stephane Chambon (Gi Motorsport Honda) heading up Fabien Foret (Team Megabike Honda).


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

TOSELAND AND LACONI (DUCATI XEROX TEAM) IN DESERT ACTION IN QATAR WORLD SUPERBIKE TEST

Losail (Qatar), Saturday 19 February: James Toseland and Régis Laconi (Ducati Xerox Team) warmed up for the 2005 World Superbike Championship by setting fourth and ninth quickest times respectively on the first day of the final pre-season test session in Qatar. The two-day test, organized by WSBK promoters FGSport at the Losail circuit in the Arabian peninsula state, is the last opportunity for this year’s contenders to prepare for next Saturday’s opening round at the brand-new track built in the desert on the outskirts of the capital Doha.

Almost five hours of testing in warm conditions (air 24°C/track 44°C) on a slippery and sandy track surface left the two Ducati Xerox Team riders in a positive mood for the Losail race as they faced up against all of their main opponents for the first time this year. Toseland was one of three riders, together with Corser (Suzuki) and Cardoso (Yamaha), who constantly lapped quicker than the rest today. Despite losing almost one hour with a technical problem on one 999F05 and a low-speed crash when he lost the front of his other machine, the world champion was feeling good about today’s performance.

“I’m a bit disappointed to be in fourth but I’m sure I would have done Cardoso’s lap time if I hadn’t lost a lot of time in the second session”, declared Toseland. “The balance of the bike feels good and the rear tyre is fine, but we still need to work on the front because it’s chewing the tyre up after 10 laps. Since last year the changes have made a massive improvement, especially the front forks and the weight transfer so I’m feeling a lot more confident now. Tomorrow I’m sure will be better than today once the track gets a bit more grip and I believe we’ll be down to 2 minutes flat”, he concluded.

Laconi preferred to have a cautious approach while he learnt the track and tried to perfect his set-up for the race. “We haven’t done so many laps in the dry this year and this track is very slippery and very difficult to learn immediately so I just took it steadily”, said Régis. “I’m not entirely happy with the feeling but we are working step by step to make the right settings. In the morning we sorted out the rear tyre but then in the afternoon we had a bit of difficulty with the durability of the front and we still have to get the right feeling. The track is nice, but you don’t have much line and if you go off, you can lose it. I am not surprised to see a lot of riders go fast today but the hardest thing is to go fast lap after lap and I hope to be in a position to do that in the race next week”.

OFFICIAL TIMES: 1. Cardoso (Yamaha) 2:02.618; 2. Corser (Suzuki) 2:03.044; 3. Kagayama (Suzuki) 2:03.309; 4. Toseland (Ducati Xerox) 2:03.347; 5. Nieto (Ducati SC) 2:03.759; 6. Muggeridge (Honda) 2:03.870; 7. Walker (Kawasaki) 2:03.927; 8. Gimbert (Yamaha) 2:03.999; 9. Laconi (Ducati Xerox) 2:04.011; 10. Silva (Yamaha) 2:04.077; etc.


More, from a press release issued by Scuderia SC Caracchi:

FIRST DIRECT CHALLENGE IN QATAR TESTS

On the 5380 meters of Losail circuit, close to the capital Doha in Qatar’s desert, the World Superbike and Supersport teams have had the first direct confrontation of the 2005 racing season.

A two-day test on this track, almost new for everybody, apart from a few riders moved in this season from GPs championship to Superbike arena which have the possibility to contest Qatar GP next fall. Big job for all the teams for setting the suspension and to select the tyre looking at the first round of the championship next week end. The sable flying from the desert onto the track, as well the surface has continuously cleaned, is a tyre-killer and the tyres go on just a few laps when the suspensions don’t work pefectly.

In Supersport Gianluca Nannelli, after the troubles with the front during the morning session, scored in the afternoon session a very good fifth fastest. The team and the rider made a big setting job and now the rear of the 749r Ducati is perfect. Go on some uncertainty in the front and the team will focus to solve tomorrow, in the final test day.

“We must believe this test the first ever on the 749R”. – said Gianluca Nannelli at the end of the test today. “We had never been able to test on dry conditions and it was important to verify all the work still made by the team. The bike scored the fastest top speed of all the group, thank the work made by Franco Farnè. The set up is quite good too, I’m the fastest in the first intermediate, then in the second I have not feeling with the front and I lose time from my rivals. I’m however quite satisfied for the result we got today, if we’ll be able to solve the front problem I’m confident we’ll earn a better position.”

In Superbike more as positive the debut of Fonsi Nieto, who on the 999RS made only some lap in wet condition during the Valencia test. The Spanish rider grabbed the fifth fastest, just a second behind the leader and ending before several factory bikes, carrying out a big work and running 61 laps to look the best feeling with a bike so different the machines he’s used before. Among other things Fonsi doesn’r ride street bikes, so the four stroke engine is totally new for him.

A bit behind Lorenzo Lanzi on the second 999RS. Despite the very good top speed (Lanzi was the fastest in the morning and the second fastest overall) the Italian rider has not been able to find a satisfying set up, which will try to find in the final day tomorrow.

Despite that Stefano Caracchi, SC Caracchi team owner della squadra, looks satisfied: “Lorenzo found more difficulties as he was expecting on this track very difficult for the tyres”. – commented the test day Caracchi. “But he’s a rider with great potential and I’m confident that, thank his crew work, he’ll be able to solve the today’s trouble and reach the position he deserves. Fonsi has been fantastic! We must remember that he made just a couple of day test under the rain in Valencia on the999RS and he rode just a second slower as the leader. We have a great trust in him, Fonsi is a great rider and just he’ll find the necessary feeling with the bike he’ll be one of the heroes of the racing season.”

Superbike – Saturday Test

1st Cardoso (Yamaha) 2:02.618; 2nd Corser (Suzuki) 2:03.044; 3rd Kagayama (Suzuki) 2:03.309; 4th Toseland (Ducati) 2:03.347; 5th Fonsi Nieto (Ducati SC Caracchi) 2:03.759; 6th Muggeridge (Honda) 2:03.870; 7th Walker (Kawasaki) 2:03.927; 8th Gimbert (Yamaha) 2:03.999; 9th Laconi (Ducati) 2:04.011; 10th Silva 2:04.077;…19th Lorenzo Lanzi (Ducati SC Caracchi GA) 2:05.004

Supersport – Saturday Test

1st Charpentier (Honda) 2:04.716; 2nd Fabrizio (Honda) 2:05.982; 3rd Curtain (Yamaha) 2:06.397; 4th Parkes (Honda) 2:06.758; 5th Gianluca Nannelli (Ducati SC Caracchi) 2:06.960; 6th Chambon (Honda) 2:07.348; 7th Foret (Honda) 2:07.531; 8th Fujiwara (Honda) 2:07.812; 9th Cogan (Suzuki) 2:08.147; 10th Fores (Suzuki) 2:08.717

Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

A story appearing in the February 3 online edition of the “Modesto (California) Bee” newspaper (http://www.modbee.com), reported that racer Nicky Moore, 18, was arrested February 2 by the Modesto Police Department “for investigation of assault with a deadly weapon. Investigators believe he stabbed the victim twice in the leg and beat him with a baseball bat…” The alleged incident occurred January 28.

The report went on to state that Moore was being held in the Stanislaus County Jail in lieu of $20,000.

“It’s complicated. It’s not true,” Moore told Roadracingworld.com in a telephone interview February 18. “I just talked to the cops about it.

“I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Me and my girlfriend were on our way home from the movies, and we saw some of our buddies getting into a big fight, like with bats and stuff. I never got out of my truck, but my truck is real noticeable. It’s lifted like seven inches and has flames through the windows.

“They (Modesto Police) had me go down there (to the station) to give a statement. I was never arrested, never charged.

“The guy who got beat up is almost dating my sister. They’re talking and stuff. He knows I didn’t do it.”

Moore said he was never contacted by the Modesto Bee.

Roadracingworld.com then called the Modesto Police Department to clear up the conflicting stories and reached officer Rick Applegate in the MPD’s Media Relations department.

“He (Moore) was booked. I have a booking register that shows he was booked into the jail for assault with a deadly weapon and he posted $20,000 bail,” said Applegate, who was listed as a source in the Modesto Bee article.

Further attempts to reach Moore were unsuccessful.

From a press release issued by Telefonica Movistar Honda:

POSITIVE DAY OF TESTING FOR THE TELEFONICA MOVISTAR HONDA TEAM

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

Phillip Island, 19th February 2005

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

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


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

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


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

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



More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


More, from a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unofficial Lap Times:

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


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

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

HRC conclude successful Phillip Island MotoGP test session

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

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

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

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

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

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


Honda rider lap times and quotes.

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Telefonica MoviStar Honda:

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

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


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM CONCLUDES TESTING IN AUSTRALIA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONCLUDE THREE DAYS OF TESTS IN AUSTRALIA

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

Rubén Xaus, (1:31.98, 91 laps)

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

Toni Elías (1:32.96, 67 laps)

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


More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

Encouraging Australian test for Team SUZUKI MotoGP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From a press release:

Team Sheriff Racing “Beat The Heat” Track Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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