The Roadracing World Action Fund has given Most Valuable Contributor awards to Brooks Gremmels of Shogun Motorsports, Mr. & Mrs. Fred Bittner, Mark Brereton and Marcus McBain for their extraordinary efforts and contributions.

A strong supporter and frequent contributor to the 2001 Airfence Campaign, Brooks Gremmels and Shogun Motorsports showed enthusiastic recommitment to the cause of motorcycle racing safety with a donation of $10,000 in December of 2004, marking the largest lump-sum contribution from a for-profit corporation ever received by the Action Fund. Most Valuable Contributor honoree Gremmels’ grand total now stands at an amazing $14,150.

Fred and Adrienne (Eckart) Bittner have made it a point to donate the equivalent of a single section of soft barrier, or $2900, each year since 2002. That first year’s contribution was made in honor of Papa Thiam, who was seriously injured at Summit Point. In 2003, they once again donated $2900, along with $450 for dirt track soft barriers. With that second donation, racer Fred wrote: “Like many others, my wife and I continue to find the news about injuries sustained by road racers as a result of contact with unprotected barriers troubling. We therefore decided to make an additional contribution to the Roadracing World Action Fund, and consider it an investment in the future safety of road racers. I would like to note that I am racing this year, and am very gratified to see that several of the manufacturers and service providers whose goods and services I use also support the Fund. Nevertheless, I would be very proud to be able to say that all the companies and organizations associated with my racing program have contributed to the Fund. To this end, I am in the process of contacting nearly 100 organizations in an effort to encourage them to do just that.” Then in 2004, when author C. Edward Link auctioned a racer-autographed copy of The Little Motorcycle on eBay and pledged the proceeds to the Roadracing World Action Fund, the Bittners posted the winning bid of $415, then quickly followed up with a contribution of $2485, the amount needed to make it the full $2900 for a complete section of soft barrier, designating the section for dirt track use.

For their generosity and commitment to the cause of race track safety through their efforts and donations totally $9150 to the Action Fund, the Bittners have earned the Most Valuable Contributor designation.

Marcus McBain has become a Most Valuable Contributor, with a Roadracing World Action Fund four-year total contribution of $5785 ($5025 plus $760 as winner of an eBay auction benefiting the Action Fund.) At first donating as an individual in 2001, McBain expanded his support by donating a portion of the profits from his business, Racing Performance Services, steadily making contributions several times each year. For consistently supporting and spreading the word for the cause of promoting motorcycle racing safety, McBain deserves this important recognition as Most Valuable Contributor.

Filmmaker Mark Brereton, whose popular WERA-track, racer’s view action DVD RoadRACE became the cornerstone of a 2-year fundraising drive for the Roadracing World Action Fund, is the next inductee to the exclusive club of Most Valuable Contributor award recipients. Pledging $5.00 per DVD sold, Brereton has raised $4015 to date. With a follow-up DVD to RoadRACE due for release early this year, Brereton has pledged to continue to donate a portion of the proceeds to the Roadracing World Action Fund.

Brooks Gremmels, Fred & Adrienne Bittner, Marcus McBain and Mark Brereton join previously honored Max McAllister of Traxxion Dynamics as Most Valuable Contributors.

On behalf of everyone who has crashed on a racetrack and slid or flown into a soft barrier instead of a hard surface–and on behalf of everyone who may in the future do the same–we thank them.

From a press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A.:

Factory Yamaha Team romps in Daytona tire test

The Factory Yamaha Road Race Team set the standard during the annual Daytona tire test January 3-5, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Not only did 20-year old Jason DiSalvo post the quickest lap in class on his Yamaha YZF-R1 Superstock machine, he also rode his new YZF-R6 to the quickest lap in the Supersport class. Just behind, Damon Buckmaster nabbed the second fastest Supersport time aboard another new R6, with last year’s Daytona Superstock winner and reigning Champion, Aaron Gobert, notched a fifth ranking on his Supersport-class R6. The final Factory Yamaha rider, last year’s second-place Daytona Superstock finisher Jamie Hacking, sat out the tire test to give last season’s collarbone injury more time to heal..

Trap speeds were spectacular, as DiSalvo ‘s YZF-R1 Superstock bike went a ballistic 193.281 mph. That’s within just 1.354 mph of the fastest Superbike-class machine during the tire test – remarkable since the rules allow Superbikes to be more heavily modified than Superstock machines like DiSalvo’s R1.

Damon Buckmaster was impressed with the evolutionary changes that have been made to his Superstock R1. “The team has been doing a lot of work on the R1 in the off season,” he says. “They’ve made the bike more rideable and manageable.”

Team manager Tom Halverson says 600 Supersport team riders also picked up significant top speed. “Last year the R6 would do about 167 or 168 though the traps, and now it’s up at about 171 mph,” he says. “The bigger throttle bodies that come on the new R6 are definitely adding to the top end, but we haven’t sacrificed any of the bottom or mid range.”

DiSalvo found big improvements in the R6 in the infield, thanks to the new the inverted fork and larger brakes. “The R6 is really strong in the infield,” DiSalvo says. “You can take it right up to the limit, and it’s really defined. The feedback is so good, it’s easy to stay right at the limit.”

The strong performance in both the Supersport and Superstock classes during the tire test bodes well for Team Yamaha’s chances in the upcoming racing season, which kicks off at Daytona on March 9-12. Halverson says, “We have a good mix of riders – two seasoned veterans, and two young guys – all with a lot of talent and enthusiasm. I think we have a great chance of winning both the Supersport and Superstock championships in 2005.”



More, from a press release issued by P.R. firm Vreeke & Associates on behalf of Dunlop:

Dunlop concludes tire testing session at Daytona International Speedway

Daytona, FL – Dunlop Motorcycle Tires concluded three days of tire testing Wednesday, January 5 at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) in preparation for the 2005 AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) Superbike series. It was a productive session which utilized virtually all of the 1100 tires Dunlop brought to equip the Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha factory and support teams competing in the Superbike series, as well as the Superstock, Supersport and Formula Xtreme support classes.

“The elimination of the west banking—even with the increased number of turns on the infield—has positively impacted tire temperatures,” said Jim Allen, Dunlop’s manager of U.S. road racing, as he took measure of the changes made to DIS since the teams last competed here in March, 2004. “This track has always generated a lot of wear and heat in the left portion of the rear tire tread. With more infield turns, most of them lefts, we are still seeing wear on the left side,” explained Allen. “But tread temperatures are down, due to less time on the banking, and that is a very good sign.”

The unseasonably warm weather was a good barometer of the conditions expected for the AMA Superbike series kickoff in early March. Superbike competitors evaluated a number of Dunlop tires, six front tires and 14 rear tires in all. The variations included multi-compound rear tires and a new-generation rear tire designed to maximize turning and straight-line traction and stability. Superstock riders tested four front and six rear tires and the Supersport teams had various combinations as well.

Another significant change for the teams competing in the 2005 Daytona 200 is the AMA’s decision to run the Formula Xtreme (FX) class instead of the Superbikes. For this reason, Dunlop provided FX teams with four front and six rear tires to assess, including the multiple compounds noted above.

At the conclusion of the three-day test, Allen was pleased with the results. “Overall, the changes that have been made here will make for a better race, and we applaud Daytona’s management for stepping up to do so. We are looking forward to returning in March and the beginning of the AMA series.”

About Dunlop Tires

Dunlop Tires is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S. and the only manufacturer of motorcycle tires in North America. With North American operations headquartered in Buffalo, NY, Dunlop has been making and selling high-quality tires in the U.S. since 1923. For more information, please contact visit www.dunlopmotorcycle.com.

From a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

SUZUKI DONATE TO EARTHQUAKE FUND

Suzuki Motor Company has joined many leading international companies in announcing that it has made a donation to help victims of the powerful earthquake and tsunamis that struck southern Asia earlier this week.

Suzuki has production bases within the devastated area in India and Indonesia, and the parent company will donate 10 million yen ($95,210.90) through the Japanese Red Cross Society.

Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary Maruti Udyog Ltd. will also donate about 25 million yen ($238,027.25) along with relief supplies.

Another Indian subsidiary and a Thai subsidiary will give 2.3 million yen ($21,898.50) and 2.8 million yen ($26,659.05), respectively.

From a press release issued by Triumph Motorcycles (America):

TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES REPORTS RECORD REVENUE AND PROFIT FOR 2005 FISCAL Year

Triumph Motorcycles’ success continues

Triumph Motorcycles, Ltd., the global parent of US distributor, Triumph Motorcycles (America), Ltd. remained on its strong growth path in the 2004 fiscal year that ended on June 30th 2004.

Group revenues rose by 14% from $211m to $240m. Operating profit, before interest and taxes, grew to $2.8m.

Two years ago Triumph had a serious factory fire that disrupted production for six months. This contributed to a loss, before interest and tax, of $8.5m for the prior year that ended on June 30th 2003. The 2004 results reflect a full recovery from the fire.

Bloor Holdings Limited owns the Triumph Group. Bloor Holdings is a closely held private company with net assets of $517m.

Significant growth in sales

The successful launch of two new models – the Rocket III and Thruxton 900, a new marketing strategy and a restructuring of the dealer network has resulted in significant sales growth for Triumph.

Triumph’s dealer restructuring program has resulted in higher sales per dealer and quicker stock turnover leading to significantly increased dealer profitability. In recognition of the impact of Triumph’s new strategy in terms of sales, service and exposure, Triumph was awarded the ‘British Brand of the Year’ title at the 2004 Walpole British Excellence Awards.

Promising start to the current financial year

In the first 6 months of the current fiscal year, Triumph’s global sales have increased over 30% and this trend is expected to continue.

Tue Mantoni, Commercial Director says, “Consumer reaction to our recently launched new models – the new Sprint ST and Speed Triple – has been superb and our dealers have received an exceptional number of deposits for both bikes.”

As a result of the continued positive development, Triumph will increase overall production for the next financial year by more than 25%, taking production at the Hinckley facility to record levels.

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Triumph Motorcycles, Ltd., a manufacturer of Triumph motorcycles and accessories. Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is located in Newnan, GA and services the Triumph dealer organization throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America.

From a press release:

Atlanta Bike Fest expected to attract motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country this summer.

ATLANTA – This high energy celebration of bike culture will be held at the historic Lakewood Exhibition Center & Fairgrounds from July 14-17, 2005, attracting thousands for one of the most diverse showings of biker comraderie.

The multi-faceted event includes indoor and outdoor vendor markets that will feature over 300 vendors selling parts and accessories, apparel, t-shirts, custom bikes, production motorcycles and more. Attendees will also enjoy demo rides, nonstop music, charity bike ride, educational panes, family fun, motorcycle give-aways, competitions, food, beer and more. Official Atlanta Bike Fest merchandise will also be sold.

Local bands will delight crowds with late afternoon concerts on the beach. Two of the buildings on this 100-acre property will be transformed into trendy night clubs and bars featuring a diverse selection of music ranging from country, to, jazz, to blues, to rock, to pop, to hip-hop.

On Lakewood Fairgrounds’ 15 acre lake, the Celebrity Beach Volleyball Tournament and the Beach Basketball Challenge will offer a competitive atmosphere featuring nationally known celebrity motorcycle enthusiasts challenging grassroots motorcycle organizations.

The Miss Atlanta Bike Fest Pageant will feature classy biker babes from the Southeast Region. The twelve finalists will be on-site as will the Ms. Atlanta Bike Fest calendar and other novelty items.

Registration is available online. Four-day passes are available for $45 and include parking. One-day passes are $12.50 each. Group discounts are also available. For more information on this year’s Atlanta Bike Fest, visit the Website at www.AtlantaBikeFest.com or call 877-BIKE-FEST (877-245-3337)

From a press release issued by Daytona International Speedway:

Motorcycle Test Wraps Up; Hodgson Makes Return To Daytona

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., — The three-day motorcycle tire test at historic Daytona International Speedway wrapped up on Wednesday with more than 20 riders turning laps on the new 2.95-mile road course in preparation for Daytona 200 Week on March 3-12.

The test gave riders the first opportunity to shake down the new infield motorcycle road course as well as utilize the new amenities from the multi-million, multi-faceted infield renovation.

For new Ducati Austin rider Neil Hodgson, everything at Daytona International Speedway seemed new.

“It feels so different,” Hodgson said during the lunch break on Wednesday. “My bike was just a privateer Ducati. I spoke to the technicians here and they think the (1995) bike would have less power than a 600 would have now. All I remember was going around the bike comfortable and relaxed enjoying the ride. Now we you get on those beasts, it feels like warp speed.”

Hodgson made his first and only visit to the “The World Center of Racing” back in 1995 when he competed in the Daytona 200 finishing 16th aboard a privateer Ducati.

Since then, Hodgson won the British Superbike championship (2000) and World Superbike championship (2003) and has now returned to America to compete in the AMA Superbike championship with Ducati Austin.

Besides breaking in the new infield motorcycle course, Hodgson also noticed all the changes in the infield such as the new garages, new Gatorade Victory Lane and Daytona 500 Club, FanZone and massive Turn 1 tunnel.

“I remember it was a bit scruffy,” Hodgson said of his first visit to the track. “It looked dated 10 years ago. I’m glad they put all these new garages in for me. That’s very kind. I really impressed with that.”

Hodgson will compete aboard the 999 Ducati in the opening round of the AMA Superbike championship series at Daytona on Saturday, March 12 as he tries to become the first rider in history to win World, British and America championships.

He’s ready for the challenges that Daytona presents.

“It’s not a picnic,” Hodgson said. “At this track, there’s nowhere to rest. Obviously, the banking, you can’t relax on it. When you come off the banking go towards to the finish line, you’re going so fast and there’s so much wind on you, you’re just trying to hold onto the thing.”

This week’s test was the first with his new team. So far, Hodgson has been impressed.

“I think the team is really looking promising,” Hodgson said. “They’ve got fantastic support from Italy. They’ve got some fantastic technicians here. I didn’t know what to expect. This is my first test with the team and I’m pleasantly surprised. Everybody has been extremely professional. I think we’ve got a fair chance.”

Next up at Daytona International Speedway is Rolex Sports Car Series testing in preparation for the Feb. 5-6 Rolex 24 At Daytona. Testing is free and open to the public with access to the Oldfield Grandstand through the lobby of DAYTONA USA.

Tickets for Daytona 200 Week are available online at http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.

From a press release:

Didn’t get what you deserved for xmas? onbike.tv has released 2 new DVD’s from the 2004 Can-Am Challenge Series:

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Both races were shot by the PMP crew and edited by onbike.tv They are available to order online NOW for only $20 USD, shipping included.

From a press release:

National City Motorcycle Opens New Service Center

National City Motorcycle, Inc. (NCM), is proud to announce the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art service department. This new facility nearly doubles the square footage of the previous shop, and boasts new Coats automatic tire changer and electronic wheel balancer, and other high-tech computerized equipment.

NCM will now be able to offer even more while-you-wait services without an appointment, including: tire mount and balance; oil and filter change; brake line and brake pad installation; suspension adjustment; chain and sprocket installation; and exhaust slip-on and accessories installation. You will be able to choose from a large array of Bridgestone, Dunlop, Michelin, Avon, Pirelli, Metzeler, and Maxxis tires for motocross, cruisers, and sportbikes.

Also available to are over 10 major brands of lubricants; 5 brands of brake pads; Galfer brake lines; 6 brands of sprockets and chains; GPR stabilizers; and many other billet and custom accessories in stock.

Additionally, Nitrogen tire fills are now available – the same inert gas utilized by many professional roadracers, NASCAR and INDY teams for better performance and longer tire life.

To compliment this new service center, NCM will be adding the first Dynojet dynamometer in San Diego’s South Bay by late Spring.

Since 1981, National City Motorcycle, Inc. has been one of San Diego’s premier independent motorcycle dealerships. With Japanese and Harley Davidson MMI certified mechanics on staff, NCM specializes in servicing Japanese, American, and European motorcycles. NCM also stocks one of the largest selections of motorcycle accessories and women’s and men’s apparel in San Diego County.

Moreover, NCM is a proud sponsor of AMA Formula Extreme racer Tim Knutson. For more information regarding National City Motorcycle and the services it provides, please contact Parts Manager Diego Garijo or Service Manager Rob Brown at (619) 474-2025, [email protected], 1504 National City Boulevard, National City, California 91950.

From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

HODGSON AND BOSTROM TEST AT DAYTONA SPEEDWAY

Daytona International Speedway (Florida), Thursday 6 January 2005:

Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin riders Neil Hodgson and Eric Bostrom completed three promising days of testing with their Ducati 999s at the Daytona International Speedway on Wednesday. The duo began preparations for the 2005 AMA Superbike campaign which is scheduled to begin at Daytona in March.

Both riders recorded impressive top speeds on the recently revised 3.0 mile (4.8 km) circuit. Hodgson’s Ducati 999 was the fastest bike at the test, having motored through the speed trap at 194.635 mph according to the AMA’s timing equipment.

Neil was particularly impressive in his first US test as an AMA Superbike regular, the British rider turning in a positive 1:40.711 on the final day, which was good enough for third quickest overall. The former World Superbike champion got up to speed on the unique Daytona speed bowl best known for its fearsome banked sections.

“It’s really good to be here. I love Daytona and its history and I like racing on classic circuits like this,” said the 31-year old Isle of Man resident. “It was a bit of an eye-opener, coming here. It looks a lot easier on television, that’s all I can say — you know, (with) the banking and everything. But it’s exciting!”

“It was going really well working with Neil. He gave us a good direction with the bike and his lap times continued to drop after the riders lapped enough to clean off the circuit and give more grip,” said Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin race engineer Luca Ferraccioli.

Eric Bostrom turned in a best lap of 1:41.1 late on Wednesday, although the lap was credited to his teammate on the AMA’s timing monitors. His lap time was good for fifth quickest over the course of the three-day test.

Bostrom, who set pole and was a contender for the win in last year’s 200-mile race at the Speedway, saw his lap times remarkably drop by over a second in the morning session on Wednesday. In the afternoon, Eric rode Neil’s 999 to set his quickest time of the day as he continued to improve.

“I’m happy with the way things are going. It was definitely a good test for us. The Dunlop tires were good, I’m still learning the front and I’m still looking for one more second,” said Eric. “The new suspension link we tried seemed to really help on the banking and my confidence is just getting better with each lap.”

Eric continued: “We learned some things when I rode Neil’s bike. His settings did some things a little better than mine and we’ll have to see if that can translate to my set-up or not. I think there’s a lot to learn from having a teammate and I look forward to it this year.”

“I think it was very positive,” said chief mechanic Gary Medley of the test. “We got a lot of information from Eric over the three days and the team worked well together. With a few more tests, we will be ready for the season.”

The Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin team will test again this spring before the 2005 AMA championship begins at Daytona on March 13th.


More, from a press release issued by Team M4 EMGO Suzuki:

HASKOVEC AND MAY TEST AT DAYTONA

Team M4 EMGO Suzuki kicked off the 2005 season with a three-day test at Daytona International Speedway this week. The team’s duo of Vincent Haskovec and Geoff May rode the revised 3.0-mile Florida circuit for the first time since the track was modified this off-season, ending up with promising results on the both the Suzuki GSX-R1000 and Suzuki GSX-R600.

Haskovec was impressive from the start, quickly getting up to speed on the Superstock GSX-R1000 now shod with Pirelli tires. Haskovec’s trademark fiery, inspired riding hasn’t lost momentum over the winter layoff as he begins his second year with the team.

“It was tremendous to ride the new GSX-R 1000. Everyone knows the bike has improved for this season,” said Vincent, clocked at 1:42.589 on the GSX-R1000. “We got the bike even more stable on the banking as the test went on as we found some solutions. With every track, you’ll have some compromises where the bike may be very good in one section and not so good in another. Here, the set-up has to be very good for the banking and the rider must do his best in the infield.”

On Wednesday, Haskovec rode the Formula Xtreme bike he used to earn podium finishes in the class. “It’s a bike I know well from last year, but with different tires,” he said. Vincent’s time on the Suzuki GSX-R600 was 1:44.494, good for fastest FX time in that session.

Geoff May was last year’s top privateer in AMA Superbike and now he has joined a factory-supported team. “I can’t wait until the season starts,” said May, who was timed at 1:42.334 on Wednesday. “Right off the bat, things are going really well with the team, Pirelli tires, and the bike. We just got our Suzuki GSX-R1000s right before this test. They are right out of the crate, the engines are completely stock, but we’re up there with some of the factory Superbikes.”

May also rode the Formula Xtreme machine. “I haven’t raced a 600 in a few years and that’s the area I might need some seat time to get back into it. The riding style is totally different than the big bikes,” he said.


More, from a press release issued by Michael Barnes’ publicist:

MICHAEL BARNES DISCUSSES DAYTONA TIRE TEST

Daytona, USA — Riding an ex-factory Supersport 2003 Yamaha YZF-R6 owned by David Knapp, father of 17 year old AMA competitor Taylor Knapp, Michael Barnes completed three days of tire testing at Daytona International Speedway with good results. The invitation to participate in
the test was extended to Mike by east coast Pirelli dealer “Moose” of Trackside Racers Supply. “Moose gave me a call last week and let me know that Dave Knapp had two R6’s that were going to the test, one that his son Taylor was riding, and another that was available”, said Mike. “It was a great opportunity to get some development time in for Pirelli and also ride
the new track configuration that I had provided input on.”

After the first day of testing, Mike managed a best time of 1:46.342, fifth fastest in Supersport, slightly less than .1 seconds behind factory rider Damon Buckmaster. Because of delays in getting to the track, Mike was only
able to complete twelve laps. “I had a good idea how the track layout was going to be, so learning the course was not that difficult. The biggest issue initially was a dusty track from the fresh construction and paving, so I tried to get up to speed quickly so I could think about the changes over night,” said Mike.

At the end of Tuesday’s testing, Mike had logged the fastest Supersport time with a 1:44.955, almost a second and a half improvement on the previous day.

Mike said, “Tuesday I continued familiarizing myself with Taylor’s bike and tried a couple of different new compounds from Pirelli, which I was pleased with. Once again I didn’t complete that many laps, this time due to a front end issue which we were getting close to dialing in. We had planned on doing an endurance run, but we put it off till Wednesday due to Mladin’s incident shortening our schedule a little. I’m glad he is mostly alright, it sounded worse at the time.”

By the end of the test on Wednesday, Mike was able to further reduce his lap time to a best of 1:43.548, again the fastest Supersport time of the day.

“We went out for a morning session 20 lap run or so, and logged some very consistent times, I looked forward to the afternoon when I could try a softer tire for a quick lap,” said Mike. “After lunch I went out for 6-8 laps on what I thought was a soft tire, which is when I did a couple of 43’s the better being a 43.5. Later that afternoon I went out on what I thought
was a race tire and not pushing that hard tried to get another consistent run in. Around lap nine or so the tire was sliding around a bit going into corners, so I backed off a little for a lap or so to let the tire cool a bit. Around lap 11 or 12, trying to finish my 20 lap stint the rear tire came around on me and I high sided in the new turn four. When I saw the tire, I knew that it was the softer tire that I thought I was on earlier. This in a way was kinda cool, because that meant that the tire I did my fast
lap on was really a race tire!”

Mike’s view of the track changes and new layout at Daytona were positive.

“The changes will definitely help the tire wear problem here by eliminating one section of the banking. The new layout is technical but fun. In traffic, it will demand your complete attention and require patience, as Daytona always has. There are only a few areas that need some attention, like the ripples and dip in the new transition to the banking, but both the AMA and
the track are very responsive and completely on top of it.”

Regarding plans for the 2005 season, Mike commented “My plans are not yet firm, but it appears as if I’ll probably be riding a Buell for Rich Cronrath’s team starting after Daytona, which means I need to find a Formula Extreme ride for the 200. I am talking to someone about Daytona, but this is not yet firm. Thanks to all at Daytona for their help at the tire test,
especially Gary Van Voorhis and Ron Barrick.”