Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

FIRST PERSON/OPINION:

Via e-mail:

Aim Racing Products will be closing business as of Jan 31, 2005. I would like to thank all customers and I will be honoring any remaining warranties on oxygen sensor kits and lap timers. The parent company AIM Inc will continue to operate from the same location and I can be reached at 888-323-5100 or 425-771-5100.

Sincerely,
Steve Dahlstrom
AIM INC
Lynnwood, WA

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA PRO RACING HOSTS TIMING AND SCORING SUMMIT PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Jan. 26, 2005) – AMA Pro Racing recently hosted a unique timing and scoring conference with officials from the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, Indy Racing League (IRL) and Champ Car World Series at its headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio, on January 13.

The conference, proposed by AMA Pro Racing Director of Timing and Scoring Ken Rogers to bring together each North American sanctioning body currently using the AMB-i.t. Timegear timing and scoring system, was held to discuss operational challenges and share best practices of each group.

Joining Rogers at the first-ever summit were NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Director of Timing & Scoring Steve Lowery, Indy Racing League Director of Timing & Scoring Jon Koskey and Champ Car World Series Director of Timing & Scoring Bill Skibbe. AMB-i.t. based in The Netherlands, was represented by Boris Nagels, the chief software designer of the innovative Timegear software.

“Every motorsports sanctioning body faces smilar challenges,”Rogers said. “After discussing our idea with NASCAR, Champ Car and the IRL, we all felt this conference would be a very productive way to explore solutions that can be used by each of our organizations.”

Among the items discussed were hardware set-up, software applications, staffing issues and the evolution of traditional timing and scoring functions into comprehensive mobile information technology services. Group members also compared notes on how they transmit information using the Timegear system. While there are commonalities among the various sanctioning bodies, each organization approaches timing and scoring functions a little differently.

“The Champ Car Series and IRL each rely on the individual tracks’ wiring infrastructures to transmit information, and NASCAR uses a portable fiber optic network,” Rogers said. “AMA Pro Racing is really the only series that uses wireless connectivity to relay information from each remote timing point.”

As these four organizations are the primary sanctioning bodies in the world using the Timegear multi-point timing software, Rogers said the collective feedback shared by all four organizations will be used by Nagels and his team to generate updated software releases. Additionally, all four groups have initiated plans to expand the conference into an annual multi-discipline event.

About AMA Pro Racing

AMA Pro Racing is the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States. Its properties include the THQ AMA Supercross Series, the AMA Motocross Championship, the AMA Superbike Championship, the AMA Flat Track Championship and the AMA Supermoto Championship. For more information about AMA Pro Racing, visit www.amaproracing.com

From a press release issued by Sidi importer Motonation:

Scott Greenwood signs with Sidi boots.

Scott Greenwood, one of New England’s most prolific road racers recently signed an agreement with Motonation in which he will wear Sidi boots in the 2005 season. Scott plans on riding the Formula USA series in both the
Sportbike and Superbike classes as well as in select AMA Nation rounds when the schedules do not conflict.

Motonation is proud to have Scott join the Sidi team of riders and is looking forward to working with him for many, many years to come.

From a press release issued by the CMRA:

Christopher and Stephen Corder and Marianna Essing have agreed to move their existing sponsorship to the “Mr. Corder Racing Fast Lap”. They will pay $150 to the rider setting the fastest transponder-recorded lap, (regardless of
bike size or class) during Sunday’s sprint races (not practice) at all ten CMRA events. The winning rider will be announced following the event, with a post on the CMRA message board and the rider’s name and lap time posted underneath the Mr. Corder Racing logo on the home page, where it will stay until the following race.

Thanks to Mr. Corder racing for their continued support!

From a press release issued by California Superbike School:

“A Twist of the Wrist” in Estonian?

Marching along with the translations of Keith Code’s “A Twist of the Wrist” books into other languages is the completed Estonian version.

A proof copy of the translation has already been submitted and adopted as recommended reading by the Estonian DMV and plans to open a California Superbike School are in progress. Estonians will be off to a good start, using the “A Twist of the Wrist” books, as we did here in America, for their rider improvement bibles.

Estonia, ever heard of this tiny country slightly smaller than Vermont and New Hampshire combined? Its on the Baltic Sea south of Finland and north of Latvia right next to Russia. It’s 1.3 million population has 98 FIM licensed racers and about 3,000 people who own modern street bikes.

If America had this same enthusiasm per capita we would have over 20,000 internationally licensed racers! Top all that off with three race tracks and you have a picture of Estonian enthusiasm.

Races typically draw around 150 competitors, again, very healthy numbers for the size of the country. But check out the attendance figures: races average 20,000 people per event. Can you imagine 20,000 people showing up for a WERA, CCS, AFM or any other non national event?


From another press release issued by California Superbike School:

Color Media to Publish Keith Code’s “A Twist of the Wrist” books in France

French publisher Color Media and Keith Code have completed the translation and inked a publishing and distribution contract for Code’s ground breaking and ever popular “A Twist of the Wrist” book. Color Media publishes “Sport Bikes” magazine in France among other titles.

Sport Bikes editor in chief, Diane de Salve, met with Code and 2002 125cc World Champion Arnaud Vincent at a track day in southern France this October held at Ales, a small circuit north of Marseilles, France.

Vincent and Code spent the entire day going over the “A Twist of the Wrist” material with Vincent recording his notes which will appear in the margins of the French translation along with Eddie Lawson and Wayne Rainey’s comments and observations on the book material.

“Arnaud was really surprised by the whole experience. First off, he had never ridden a street bike before in his life and second, no one had ever asked him specific questions about his skills. After I’d already asked him two dozen questions on his riding he asked me if there were any more and I said ‘lots more’, he grinned and wanted to continue.”

Depending on the success of the first book, Color Media has interest in the other two of Code’s books, “A Twist of the Wrist, Volume II” and “The Soft Science of Roadracing Motorcycles”. The first book is set for Spring release and will feature new photography and upgraded graphics, the text will remain the same as the original but in French of course.

Another notch up in our continuing process of educating riders around the world.

Twist Of The Wrist

From a press release issued by Troy Corser’s publicist:

GOOD TEST FOR TROY!

After a really relaxing but fun time with my family and friends over Christmas and New Year, it was good to get back in the saddle again. And what a good test it was for us! After three days and nearly 190 laps, I left Phillip Island with the feeling that I could’ve raced the Alstare Suzuki GSXR1000 the very next day! It was good because the bike was as good at the start of the test as it had been at the end of the previous test, so we had a good base to start working. Over the three days, I never felt that I was having to push hard, but my laps times were good and very consistent. I did a race simulation on the final day and we were all very pleased with the time we achieved.

During the tests, we tried many different changes and loads of tyres and tried to get a good base set-up. Phillip Island is a good track for testing, because it has a great variety of corners and if you can find a good set-up for your bike there, it’s going to work pretty well almost any other circuit.

As usual, I had a bit of a problem with the Phillip Island wildlife! Because there was only me and my team mate Yukio on the track, the local birdlife didn’t have heaps of bikes charging round to scare them off the track, so they were a constant threat. The stupid things would just stand there in the middle of the track usually on the racing line for some reason ­and only get out of the way (or not!) at the last moment. In three days, I hit three of them (all plovers I think) and ended up with one smashed screen and a cracked front mudguard. Twice I had to wipe blood of my leathers after a collision, but at least I didn’t crash like Yukio. Mind you he didn’t hit a bird, he hit a hare! And really, he didn’t crash when he hit it, he just tipped off in the gravel trap after he went off the track.

The team is gelling really well and the new members have all slotted in almost perfectly. Of course, the Alstare Suzuki is still very new and there’s heaps of work to be done, but at this stage things are looking good. Yukio did pretty good at the test and because he is such an aggressive rider, he’s gonna keep my on my toes for sure. It’s good having a strong team mate, and once he understands the limits of the Pirellis he’s going to be a real threat. At the moment, I think we have a great package and certainly I’ll be going for the title right from the start. With all the strong riders and new teams coming into the series, it’s going to be a tremendous year for World Superbike fans.

It’s great riding a fast bike again and after years of looking at the back of other riders, I’m looking forward to them seeing my back!

See ya.

Troy

From a press release issued by Pine Run Motorsports Park:

New race track planned for Pine County

Investment group introduces new club membership concept to the Upper Midwest

FOREST LAKE, Minn. ­ A motorsports facility with multiple race tracks is in the development stage in Pine County.

The project, named Pine Run Motorsports Park, will offer a variety of racing, featuring a 3.9-mile road course, a quarter-mile championship dragstrip, a go-cart track, a clubhouse with lounge, locker room and observation deck, and a “vehicle dynamics area.”

Pine Run will also offer a number of spectator events involving sanctioned professional motorsports racing as well as other events such as snowmobile grass drags and snowcross races.

For day-to-day use, Pine Run will feature club racing where sports car owners can buy an annual membership and then race their car on designated days. It¹s a concept that’s growing rapidly in other parts of the country because owners of high-performance sports cars want a safe facility in which to drive their cars fast.

The proposed track configuration is four tracks in one, with a tri-oval track (three turns and three straightaways) wrapped around two short road courses that can be connected to make one four-mile road course. A road course involves both right and left turns, unlike an oval track that features all left turns.

The vehicle dynamics area will be used for driving instruction, and to test vehicles in varying road conditions. It’s basically a large, open paved area used to train drivers in skid recovery, slalom, evasive and defensive driving, braking, etc.

Pine Run is being developed by Forest Lake-based JD Investments on a 500-acre parcel about 10 miles west of Pine City, Minn., near the town of Henriette. JD Investments is currently working with Pokegama Township and Pine County to acquire approval for the project.

“We’ve very excited to start working with local governments and neighbors to move our project forward,” said Jed Copham, JD Investments CEO. “As a recreation destination, we believe Pine Run will be a fantastic asset for Pine County as it brings business to this area, creates jobs and generates significant taxes for the county.

Those who use Pine Run are expected to come from the Twin Cities, Duluth and central Minnesota, Copham said. But the facility could host drivers and car clubs from throughout the country. And its spectator events could bring competitive and professional racers from around the globe.


Editorial Note: Pine City, Minnesota is located approximately halfway between the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and Duluth, one hour from each, just off Interstate 35.

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Endurance World Championship

2005 Permanent Teams

2, Suzuki Castrol Team, FRA, Suz GSX-R1000, Vincent Philippe, FRA, Matthieu Lagrive, FRA, Keiichi Kitagawa, JPN

3, Yamaha Phase One Endurance, GBR, Yam YZF-R1, Andi Notman, GBR, Damian Cudlin, AUS, Dean Ellison, GBR

4, Benelli X – One, ITA, Ben Tornado TRE 900, Paolo Tessari, ITA, Riccardo Ricci, ITA, tba, tba

5, Bridgestone Bikers Profi Team, GER, Suz GSX-R1000, Tim Roethig, GER, Thomas Cziborra, GER, Stefan Strauch, GER, Ame Tode, GER

6, Shell Endurance Academy, GBR, Yam YZF-R1, Henry Ficher, GBR, Marko Rohtlaan, EST, Alek Buseski, POL

7, Yamaha Austria Racing Team, AUT, Yam YZF-R1, Horst Saiger, AUT, Igor Jerman, SLO, Gwen Giabbani, FRA, Thomas Hinterreiter, AUT

8, Bolliger Team Switzerland, SUI, Kaw ZX-10R, Marcel Kellenberger, SUI, David Morillon, FRA, tba, tba

10, Ducati Spring Team, ITA, Ducati 999, Matteo Colombo, ITA, Lorenzo Mauri, ITA, tba

11, MV Agusta Burger King Lust Racing, GER, MV Agusta F4 1000, Gerd P. Meyer, GER, Stefan Meyer, GER, tba

14, Maco Moto Racing Team, SLK, Yam YZF-R1, Martin Kuzma, SLK, Milos Cihak, CZE, Marek Svoboda, CZE

15, Team Innodrom Racing, GER, Suz GSX-R1000, Niggi Schmassmann, SUI, Lars Albrecht, GER, tba

18, Suzuki Eurosport Benelux, NED, Suz GSX-R1000, tba, tba, tba

21, Kawasaki Endurance Germany, GER, Kaw ZX-10R, Mark Bruning, GER, Thomas Roth, GER, tba

44, No Limits & R.T. Motor Team, ITA, Suz GSX-R1000, Roberto Ruozi, ITA, Moreno Codeluppi, ITA, Andrea Giachino, ITA

51, Suzuki Fabi Corse, ITA, Suz GSX-R1000, Patrizio Fabi, ITA, tba, tba

68, Team Power Bike, FRA, Yam YZF-R1, David Barrot, FRA, Patrick Viera, FRA, tba

76, Suzuki Austria Team 76, AUT, Suz GSX-R1000, Gerhard Klein, AUT, Sandor Bitter, HUN, Marjan Malec, SLO

666, Kawasaki Diablo 666, GBR, James Hutchins, GBR, Kevin Falcke, GBR, Steve Mizera, GER, Mike Edwards, GBR

From a press release issued by Yamaha Racing:

Yamaha riders leave Australia in a positive mood

Yamaha’s officially supported Superbike and Supersport World Championship teams completed their three-day test at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia today, with good weather conditions combining with two days of development work to allow the riders to push their machines to the limit and chase ultimate lap times.

Yamaha Motor Italia’s superbike riders Noriyuki Haga and Andrew Pitt spent the day fine tuning their YZF-R1. Both saw their times drop from the previous two days testing, but more importantly both were able to complete their scheduled programmes of parts evaluation that will be used to build the final specification machines in time for next month’s opening race in Qatar.

Scorching air temperatures of around 30 degrees and a track temperature in excess of 50 caused the tyre technicians some problems during the day, but with the riders dialed into their machines after two previous days’ testing lap times were still able to drop for Haga and Pitt.

Pitt ended the test as the fastest of Yamaha Motor Italia’s superbike riders, setting an ultimate best lap time of 1:33.9. More significantly he was able to lap consistently in the 1:35 bracket despite the extreme weather conditions.

Haga left the test a little slower than his colleague, but had a greater understanding of the YZF-R1 after his first three days on the bike. Haga’s best time of the test, also set today, was a 1:35.0. The Yamaha Motor Italia team is now heading back to Europe with a huge database of information about their new machines. Within the next few days they will decide whether to spend the three weeks leading up to the official pre-season tests in Qatar developing the machines at their Milan headquarters or to carry out further track testing at the Valencia circuit in Spain.

In supersport, Yamaha Motor Germany’s Broc Parkes left Phillip Island feeling confident after three days on his YZF-R6. With the new R6 featuring completely new suspension, that was the area of development that the young Australian and his team concentrated most of their time working on. Parkes’ best time was a 1:37.6, marginally slower than his team-mate Kevin Curtain. Curtain elected to sit out of today’s testing after breaking his collarbone yesterday. His best time from the test was a 1:37.2 on the first day.

Andrew Pitt (Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team YZF-R1) “From the first day to the last we’ve made a lot of progress here at Phillip Island. Based on how well we went in Valencia, I think that we came here believing that we were a little bit further ahead than we actually were, although in the end everything has worked out fine. Sure we can go a little bit faster through improvements to the front end but even in these hot conditions I was able to consistently keep it in the low 35s on a race tyre.”

Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team YZF-R1) “Again we learned more about the bike today. The 1000cc four-cylinder is very fast of course, but we have also just started working with the bike so there is a lot of learning to do. For sure this is the challenge for us. The bike has a lot of potential but we must still make some small changes to get it just right. We need more testing and development before we are able to win, but I am sure we can do it!”

Massimo Meregalli (Team Coordinator – Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team) “Today was very hot with track temperatures of 50 degrees, which caused us some problems with grip today. Fortunately we do not expect it to be as hot when we return here for the race, or even at the first round in Qatar. We have had no crashes or mechanical failures here and now we know the direction to take with development of the bike, so it has been worthwhile for us to come here.”

Broc Parkes (Yamaha Motor Germany World Supersport Team YZF-R6) “We’ve got the suspension working much better now and we were able to put in a lot of laps today. The lap times haven’t improved much from the first day but the feeling is better and I’m a lot more comfortable on the bike now.”

Terrell Thien (Team Manager Yamaha Motor Germany World Supersport Team) “Other than Kevin’s injury it’s been a worthwhile test. He did consider riding but it is too big a risk and it is better he concentrates on the first race. We’ve been able to get a good understanding of both the bike and Broc. Our main focus has been suspension, as this is all new on the 2005 R6 but we’ve been able to try a lot of other things. We tried a new slipper clutch, which worked perfectly, our engines seem strong and we have found two front tyres which work well with the bike.”

From a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

GAULOISES YAMAHA TEAM TEST
Sepang, Malaysia
Tuesday, January 25, 2005

Ambient temperature: 34 degrees
Track temperature: 52 degrees
Humidity: 30%


YAMAHA MEN COMPLETE SUCCESSFUL SEPANG TEST

The first Gauloises Yamaha Team test of 2005 was rounded off this afternoon with another set of good lap-times from factory team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards. The two team-mates and their crews were satisfied with the work completed over the three days and will now head home for a short rest before returning to Sepang in just over two weeks to continue the busy winter testing schedule.

World Champion Rossi and Yamaha new-recruit Edwards both completed long runs on their 2005-specification YZR-M1s this afternoon and also spent time testing different tyres for Michelin. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) set the unofficial fastest time for the third consecutive day with a lap of 2:00.54, followed by Honda rider and last year’s championship runner-up Sete Gibernau with a time of 2:01.21. Rossi completed 45 laps and improved from yesterday with the third fastest lap of the day in a time of 2:01.36. He was followed by Honda team-mates Nicky Hayden (2:01.68) and Max Biaggi (2:01.91) with Edwards sixth fastest after 43 laps and a best time of 2:01.93.

Valentino Rossi, (2:01.36, 45 laps)
“I am very happy with this test, especially today. It’s been a very important test with the new bike, and we’ve done some good work. We did quite a few laps together today and the bike felt really good, as did the tyres. We’ve improved from the race last year and from the last test in November, which is encouraging. We still have a lot of things to test with the new bike and a lot of work to do, but we are looking forward to another good test next month.”

Colin Edwards (2:01’93, 43 laps)
“Today was good. I did a long run of laps in the hottest part of the day, and the wind had changed so all the brake markers were different! It took me a couple of laps to readjust and I made a few mistakes, but once I got settled I kept a good pace and it all felt okay. I’m leaving here on a positive note and I’m pleased with what we’ve achieved. I can’t wait to come back and hopefully carry on the good work!”

Jeremy Burgess, Valentino Rossi’s Crew Chief
“The test has been a success and we’re on schedule. The lap times have been better and we’ve improved the new bike; we’re not unhappy in any regard. This is only the first test of the year, but Yamaha has done an excellent job and given us a good bike, so now it’s up to us to get it ready for the start of the season.”

Daniele Romagnoli, Colin Edwards’ Crew Chief
“This has been a positive test all round. We’ve found a good feeling with the bike and the set-up is okay. The bike is turning well and we’ve improved stability over the course of the test. Colin did a long run this afternoon and his pace was fast, better than in the race last year. Of course we need to come back here for the next test and continue with everything we’ve been doing; we need to work on the settings for the chassis and suspension and continue making small improvements, but we’ve got a good base to start from.”

Unofficial Lap Times:

1. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 2:00.54
2. Sete Gibernau (Honda) 2:01.21
3. VALENTINO ROSSI (YAMAHA) 2:01.36
4. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 2:01.68
5. Max Biaggi (Honda) 2:01.91
6. COLIN EDWARDS (YAMAHA) 2:01.93


More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

First test session of 2005 concludes at Sepang

The first test session of the 2005 preseason concluded today for the Camel Honda team riders. There was a slight setback for Alex Barros today, who had run two sets of five laps, the first of which had seen him set an excellent time of 2:01.95 followed by a second quick lap. Whilst he was talking with his Chief Technician Ramon Forcada in the box, Alex got caught by a cold blast of air and his neck stiffened up. Despite an instant massage and painkiller, he was forced to pull out of the test. Troy Bayliss continued to improve after spending the first few laps behind his new team-mate, with whom he has already built up an excellent understanding, and was able to complete his testing programme and leave his difficulties from yesterday behind. Troy’s learning process on the RC211V is well on schedule and the Australian and his crew are all looking forward to the next test in optimistic mood. The next date on the calendar is again at the Malaysian track, with three days planned from 11th to 13th February.

Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Chief Technician Alex Barros)
“Over the first two days we followed the testing programme perfectly but today a completely banal incident has prevented us from finishing it. Here it’s over 30ºC in the shade and when the riders come back they are are hot and sweaty and try to cool down. Alex unzipped his leathers in front of the fan and the cold air stiffened him up. It’s something which will clear up in a few days but it meant that he couldn’t finish the job today: a few other new rear tyres and some more set-up work. Looking at the time Alex did on his second lap today, and that of his team-mate, it’s clear they’re in the right shape to do well. We’ll just have to be patient, we’ve got some top results here and gathered some good information to give to HRC. We’re very satisfied.

Alex Barros – Camel Honda – 2:01.95 (10 laps)
“Today started off really well, I was riding quick straight away but then I got a stiff neck from the air. They gave me a massage but even after the painkillers it was useless. It’s a shame but that’s the way things go. We’ll make up for it at the next test.”.

Santiago Mulero – Camel Honda (Chief Technician Troy Bayliss)
“Today was a completely different story. We analysed all the data we had, came up with a few solutions and they were proved right on the track. Troy feels much more comfortable now and at the next test we’ll be able to take another step forward, because we’ll be able to set it up perfectly for him. We’re happy to have put Troy in the right shape to look forward to the next test with a lot of faith”.

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda – 2:02.691 (67 laps)
“Today I can finally say that I’m happy, I’ve taken 1.3 seconds off my time from yesterday. Everything went better and we’re back on the right path, so much so that I’ve gone quicker now than in testing and the race here last year. I did two mini simulations of ten laps each at a really good pace. I’m sure that when we return here in a little over two weeks’ time we’ll be able to pick up where we’ve left off. The whole team reacted quickly to a difficult start. This morning I was able to follow Alex for a few laps just to be on the safe side and things got better and better from there. I’m disappointed for him that he had his setback but I’m sure he’ll be better soon.”


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

Honda MotoGP teams complete successful three-day Sepang test

The three-day MotoGP test at Sepang, Malaysia ended on a high note for HRC and the Honda RC211V riders. HRC staff engineers achieved all he objectives set for the test asthey prepare to build the 205 versions of he V5 990cc grand prix machine. “The data we have gathered from this test will be used to finalise the2005 specifications of the RC211V.” Said the content HRC Managing Director Satoru Horiike.

The Repsol Honda team spent their day confirming all they had learned from the technical aspect of the test, and competing extensive Michelin tyre testing. Nicky Hayden put in a grueling 99-laps during the day testing a range of new tyres running both short stints and endurance tests.

Hayden’s teammate, Italian Max Biaggi confirmed the variety of engine and chassis improvements HRC have made before concentrating on testing tyres. Biaggi was pleased with the results and is looing forward to returning to Sepang with the 2005 RC211V.

Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda) finished testing all the new components HRC had brought to Sepang and left for home very satisfied with the test. Teammate Marco Melandri ended the test in buoyant mood. The young Italian tested different geometry on his RCV with both 2004 Michelin tyres and the latest rubber from the French manufacturer. He finished the test happier with his performance at Sepang than ever before.

Camel Honda riders Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss worked in harmony during the morning with Barros sharing his vast experience of the Honda RC211V with his new to Honda teammate Bayliss.

Despite incurring severe neck cramp early in the day Barros was satisfied with his test results. Bayliss ended the session a much happier man than he was on the first two days of the test. The Australian slashed 1.3s off his best time of yesterday and is now looking forward to returning to Sepang for the next HRC test in two weeks time.

Konica Minolta rider Makoto Tamada was the happiest of the RCV riders. The Japanese rider gets more comfortable on the machine fitted with Michelin tyres each time he takes the bike out onto the track.


HONDA TEAM QUOTES:

Satoru Horiike – Managing Director of HRC: “This three-day test has been very worthwhile for us. The two Repsol Honda factory riders and the five riders from the satellite teams have given their best efforts over the three days, we very much appreciate the work the have done. The data we have gathered from this test will be used to finalise the 2005 specifications of the RC211V. I hope the test results will be a step forward for the next test here at Sepang. We wish to thank everyone involved in Honda Racing and our technical partners for their support.”

Makoto Tanaka – HRC Repsol Honda Team Manager: “This is a very important and difficult period for us. We have a new rider, some new mechanics and Erv Kanemoto has joined the team. But we have worked together very well and step by step achieved the objectives we set for this test. This is a very important season for Honda and we will give our best to win back the MotoGP title.”

Max Biaggi, Repsol Honda, 2:01.91 – 83 laps: “The good thing about this test session is that I am here and I am among the fastest riders. Believe me, I was not sure to make it. I started trusting my ankle only after 25/30 laps. On the other hand, I understood that there’s not too much time and there is a lot of job to do. Thanks God, I don’t miss the strength and the will to make it. During all the test days I’ve never left the circuit before 10 p.m. Would you believe me if I tell you that I was the one who closed the track gate? Of course, HRC team led by Erv Kanemoto spent all these evenings with me because we all have a common goal: building The Winning Machine.”

Nicky Hayden, Repsol Honda: 2:01.68 – 99 laps: “The test has been pretty silky smooth really after having been off the bike for a while. Sure, we’ve still got a lot of work to do but it’s great the team is working so well. The mechanics, HRC, the Michelin and the Showa boys; they sure ain’t scared of doing some work which is what we have to do as we know what we’re up against. We put a lot of laps in – probably too many really but we had lots of things to look at – lots of new tyres from Michelin and some real good ones as well. I’d say its been a really valuable start to the year.”

Erv Kanemoto, Repsol Honda Team Technical Director: “Overall a very positive test for the whole team. We came here as really a new team. In a very short time we have found a good working method and there is a good spirit in the team. We have used the three days to look at some of the new parts we have developed for the RCV but more we have used the test to learn about the machine and how the riders can extract the best from it. I think we have made a good base and we can build on this solid platform at the next test.”

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:01.325 – 61 laps: “We have done a good job evaluating the parts HRC brought here for us to test. HRC needed to evaluate the parts before building the 2005 RC211V. I was able to do many laps at 2:02 and a few inside 2:01.this test also helped us understand why we had such a bad race at this track last year.”

Marco Melandri, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:02.1 – 66 laps: “I’m very happy about today because, like everyone else, it was hard work for me in the heat this afternoon. We changed the geometry a little and the bike was better. With the changes to the geometry and the new Michelin tyres everything was much better. Before this test I was a little worried about how I would perform because this track was not great for me in the past. Now I like the track a bit better because in the past the Yamaha used to take me round, now I take the Honda round.”

Alex Barros, Camel Honda: 2:01.90 – 10 laps: “Today began very well I was soon very fast and set a time of 2:01.9 on the second lap. When I went into the pits I took off my leathers but standing near the cold air fan I got cramps in my neck. It’s a shame because the track conditions were very good for my colleagues and they set fast times. We have given HRC a lot of information and this test session has been very good for us.”

Troy Bayliss, Camel Honda: 2:02.69 – 67 laps: “Today was much better and finally I can say I’m happy. I am faster than I was with the Ducati last year, even if I only really got to work. I’m ready for the next test. I did two mini runs of 10 laps with a good rhythm. In the morning I did a few laps with Alex (Barros) to verify a few things and from then on everything went better. I’m sorry had the inconvenience of the cramps but I’m sure he will be better for the next test.”

Makoto Tamada (Konica Minolta Honda): 2:02.8 – 73 laps: “I wanted to make my time attack when the temperature was cooler but I couldn’t even finish my long run because the tyre and rim dislocated. So my best lap time was set on the second lap this morning. Still we gained a lot of precious data from the test. For the coming test, here at Sepang, in February we will have the new RCV so maybe I will have to start all over again. But now I’m really enjoying riding the bike, everything I tested was fruitful.”


More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki Racing Team:

KAWASAKI CONCLUDE SUCCESSFUL FIRST OUTING AT SEPANG

Kawasaki riders, Shinya Nakano and Alex Hofmann, ended the three day test at Sepang with career best performances at the Malaysian track today.

Both Ninja ZX-RR pilots were in great form, despite another day of tropical heat and humidity with track temperatures reaching an exhausting 59 degrees.

Nakano completed 34 laps today with a fastest time of 2:02.7, his best of the Sepang test and 1.5s faster than his previous best in last October’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

With a final day total of 48 laps, Hofmann posted an improved time of 2:03.7, a personal best by 2.9s seconds at the 5.5 km circuit. Unfortunately the test schedule did not allow the 24-year-old German rider an opportunity to do a final run on the best combination of front and rear tyres.

The primary aim of the test was to evaluate prototype versions of the 2005 Ninja ZX-RR and a new generation of Bridgestone tyres, both front and rear.

The new tyre selection included revised constructions, contours and compounds and clearly showed that Kawasaki’s tyre partner have done a lot of development work during the winter off-season.

The chassis and suspension set-up programme for the Sepang test was designed to provide data for the development of the Ninja ZX-RR chassis, which will evolve over the next three months, before being debuted by Nakano and Hofmann in the first race of the 2005 season at Jerez.

Back-to-back runs with the well balanced ’04 ZX-RR were an essential point of comparison, and both Nakano and Hofmann continued that programme today.

This test was the first appearance of the revised chassis and, not surprisingly, it will now undergo further refinement based on the feedback from Sepang.

For the tyre tests Kawasaki and Bridgestone engineers used the known performance base of last year’s ZX-RR on which Nakano scored Kawasaki’s first four-stroke MotoGP podium in the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi.

Shinya Nakano: #56
“Today was important to provide feedback on the ’05 prototype ZX-RR frame with different stiffness, and it was good to have engineers from both Kawasaki and SRT in the pit box with us to assess the performance of the new chassis. This is our first test with the new machine and, at the moment, we don’t have the same balance as we do with the ’04 bike. But this is to be expected at a first test, and it’s important that we come away from here with a clear direction that will allow us to move forward with the development of the ’05 bike. I did my fastest lap with the best combination of the new Bridgestone front and rear tyres, both of which were very consistent and a clear step forward.”

Alex Hofmann: #66
“The new frame has some positive points, but like all new developments, there are also some areas for improvement, and it was important to learn these things early in the development programme. For me, a big advantage is the packaging and the way I sit on the bike with my 1.8 metre height; I feel much more comfortable and relaxed and part of the machine. I also need less pressure on the handlebars under acceleration. This test showed just how good the ’04 ZX-RR chassis is; I’m still faster on the ’04 bike, but that’s to be expected on the first outing and is sure to change at subsequent tests. As for the latest Bridgestone tyres, I really like the new fronts. They give more grip and confidence on turn-in, as well as better balance as you release the brake. I think any rider using Bridgestone tyres this year will be very happy.”

Naoya Kaneko: Technical Coordinator
“The main chassis work today was to evaluate a variation of the 2005 prototype with a different stiffness option. The total package of the ’05 bike still needs some changes to improve on the very good balance of last year’s Ninja ZX-RR, so this was a valuable opportunity to obtain the required data in back-to-back runs. Both riders are impressed with the new generation Bridgestone tyres, and Shinya found an excellent combination of new contour front and rear tyres for his best lap time. The positive points of the tyres are improved cornering and drive grip. Overall this test has provided the direction we needed for further chassis and tyre development for the coming season.”


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

TEAM TELEFONICA MOVISTAR HONDA COMPLETE THE FIRST TEST SESSION AT SEPANG

The three-day MotoGP test at Sepang, Malaysia ended with good results for the Telefonica MoviStar Honda Team.

Despite the hot temperatures (52 degrees the asphalt temperature), Sete Gibernau completed 57 laps running consistently on a pace of 2:02, he also made some fast laps on 2:01.

Marco Melandri, improved his feeling with the RC211v and lapped consistently improving his lap time.

Juan Martinez, Sete Gibernau’s chief mechanic:
“Today we finished the program scheduled for this first test session, we also tested different chassis. Now we need to analyse all the data gathered here, this analyse is fundamental to start working for the 2005. I’m satisfied of the results we got so far, Sete run faster and more consistent on this track, now we have to verify if the modifications we mage here are good also for the other tracks.”


SETE GIBERNAU – 2:01.2, 57 laps: “We have done a good job evaluating the parts HRC brought here for us to test. HRC needed to evaluate the parts before building the 2005 RC211V. I was able to do many laps at 2:02 and a few inside 2:01. This test also helped us understand why we had such a bad race at this track last year.

One of my aim before coming here was also to work in strong cooperation with Michelin and HRC and I think that we have worked well.”


Fabrizio Cecchini, capotecnico di Marco Melandri:
“We leave Malaysia satisfied and with some good results, Marco has entered the Honda Gresini family after two difficult seasons on MotoGP and I’m happy to say that now he is enjoying riding and he has improved his pace a lot. He had a good rhythm today with used tyres! We didn’t make a long run but we used the same tyres for more than 20 laps and Marco was doing well.”


MARCO MELANDRI – 2:02.19, 66 laps:
“I’m very happy about today because, like everyone else, it was hard work for me in the heat this afternoon. We changed the geometry a little and the bike was better. With the changes to the geometry and the new Michelin tyres everything was much better. Before this test I was a little worried about how I would perform because this track was not great for me in the past.

Today we made many laps with used tyres and I have seen that I’m not too far from the other riders. As for the single lap time, it’s still a little bit early for me to make a very good fast lap because I need to know the bike better. “


LAP TIMES
SETE GIBERNAU 2:01.2
MARCO MELANDRI 2:01.29


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONCLUDE TESTING PROGRAMME IN SATISFACTORY FASHION AT SEPANG

Fortuna Yamaha riders Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus today ended their first session of preseason tests on their new Yamaha YZR-M1 machines. Elias and Xaus continued to run up the laps in tough conditions at Sepang, with circuit temperatures reaching 52ºC. However, the riders stuck to their testing programme and rode throughout the day without making too many changes to the set-up of their YZR M1 machines. Yesterday evening Elías visited the Subang hospital, where doctors diagnosed a fracture to the little finger of his right hand, suffered on Sunday. His team-mate Rubén Xaus ended his first ever test with the M1 in positive mood although he had some problems adjusting to the bike because of his height and he suffered blistering where his body rubbed against the YZR M1. The best time of the day again came from Loris Capirossi (Ducati), who was also testing in Sepang alongside several MotoGP teams. Loris set a best lap of 2:00.54 whilst Elías (Fortuna Yamaha) managed an impressive 2:02.8 after 51 laps with his injured hand. His team-mate Rubén Xaus’ best effort was a 2:04.00 after 52 laps. Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus will both return to Europe tomorrow and continue their physical training programmes ahead of the next set of tests programmed by the Fortuna Yamaha team.

Toni Elías, (2:02.80) 51 laps

“I’m really satisfied because things were tough at the start after my crash on Sunday but in the end we were able to complete the testing programme we had planned. This afternoon I was even able to do my first tyre tests with Michelin. We haven’t made any major changes to the M1 although we have adjusted a few minor technical aspects. It doesn’t feel quite so strange to be riding the M1 anymore although there are a few things that don’t come naturally to me yet. But everything needs time and I’ll adapt eventually to the bike. The tests went much better here than in Valencia, where I rode the M1 for the first time. I have to get used to test sessions as long as this one and hopefully I can keep going like this. I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m leaving here a happy man!”

Rubén Xaus (2:04.00) 52 laps

“Riding a bike which is so different to what I am used to has given me a few physical problems and I’ve suffered a few blisters as a result of the bike rubbing me. Today we concentrated on continuing to get to know the M1 because yesterday we were lapping quickly all day and this is a difficult track. You can see clearly on the telemetry that I’m giving it plenty of gas. The bike is shorter and the weight transfer is very different to the Ducati. With me not being used to the M1, I worked harder than the bike over the first two days! The relationship with the team is good although I still have to get used to the way the Japanese work. Maybe it would have been easier to ride the bike for the first time in Europe, where I’ve got more references. Anyway, we had to do it here and I’m very happy with the way the first test has gone with Yamaha!”

TIMES

1 Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 2:00.54
2 Sete Gibernau (Honda) 2:01.21
3. VALENTINO ROSSI (Yamaha) 2:01.36
4. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 2:01.68
5. Max Biaggi (Honda) 2:01.91
6. COLIN EDWARDS (Yamaha) 2:01.93


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DESMOSEDICI GP5 ENDS SEPANG TESTING WITH RECORD TIME

Capirossi sets quickest time during the three-day test (2:00.54), the Italian improving the Malaysian circuit’s official pole record by 1.3 seconds.

Sepang (Malaysia) 25 January 2005 – The Ducati Marlboro Team ended the three-day test session at the Malaysian circuit with smiles all around from the results of the development work on the new Desmosedici GP5. The team leave Sepang with the knowledge that they are heading in the right direction, even though there is still a lot of work to be done in view of the difficult championship that lies ahead. The only regret was the forced absence of Carlos Checa, who had to remain in bed all day with a high temperature and a massive headache.

“These were three positive days, especially because we were able to get down to some real testing” declared Loris Capirossi. “We worked methodically on the suspension settings and tyres and managed to find the right balance. I’m very satisfied with the latest technical innovations: the chassis, the swing-arm and the ECU have all made improvements to the Desmosedici. With Bridgestone tyre development is continuing non-stop and in the next test session at Sepang we will be concentrating on the rear tyre to further improve duration over a race distance, which is already quite good. In any case, irrespective of the times we set, we have to continue along this path without getting all carried away. But I have to admit that it’s great to be competitive!”

“I had intended to get back out on the track again, but my headache was still giving me problems and sadly I had to stay in the hotel”, declared Carlos Checa. “Loris did a great job and I can’t wait to return to Sepang in a couple of weeks to finally get a chance to ride my Ducati.”

“This was a positive test”, declared Livio Suppo, MotoGP project manager. “The GP5 seems to have started off well and the Bridgestone tyres have already proved themselves to be at an excellent level both in race and qualifying set-up. It was a real pleasure to see a smile back on Loris’s face again and watch him ride in the way only he knows how! It was a pity about Carlos, but I am sure that he will be OK for the next tests and will return to Sepang with even more determination. A big thanks to all of our partners, and in particular to Shell Advance, who are allowing us to obtain these results”.

Loris Capirossi 2:00.54