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:

The Diablo SV-Cup round #5 from circuit Mt. Tremblant is available here: www.onbike.tv/svcup.htm

The Carrera Leathers 125GP round #5 from Mosport is available here: www.onbike.tv/canam.htm

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.”

From a press release issued by Piaggio, S.p.A.:

The fourth largest motorcycle company in the world is born with the acquisition of Aprilia by Piaggio Group. The new Italian two wheels group, present in 50 countries, have a production of over 600,000 vehicles for year, with the 24% of European market and 35% of Italian.

Piaggio & C., S.p.A. announces that today there took place the signing of the final contract with Aprilia S.p.A. and its shareholders (Ivano Beggio and his family, Holdipar s.r.l., European Moto Holding s.a.r.l., and Scarabeo s.s.), on the basis of which Piaggio & C. S.p.A. acquires 100% of the Aprilia Group.

The terms of the operation may be summarized as follows:

· the underwriting by Piaggio & C. of the whole Aprilia share capital increase for € 50 million, as previously voted on by the Company’s Shareholders’ meeting by means of a total make good of the losses, standing at approximately € 108 million at 31 October 2004 and the writing off of the share capital;

· the acquisition by Piaggio of loans claimed by banks from Aprilia for approximately € 98 million in nominal terms, by a payment of approximately € 34 million and the issue, by Piaggio in favor of those banks, of Piaggio financial instruments, with a maximum value of approximately € 64 million;

· the restructuring, with a guarantee from Piaggio, of the self-liquidating bank credit lines held by the Aprilia Group for € 78 million, of which approximately € 70 million have been extended to seven years duration at market rates and the remainder handled with a short-term credit line;

· the allocation to former Aprilia shareholders of Piaggio financial instruments and a possible earn out for a maximum overall amount of € 20 million, with a guaranteed minimum of € 4 million.

The outstanding Aprilia bonded loan of € 100 million will be fully repaid at its expiry in May 2005, with the revenue from a five-year bonded loan issued or guaranteed by Piaggio. IMMSI has undertaken to guarantee the placement of this bonded loan.

“Today’s signing sees the creation of the fourth largest motorcycle group worldwide.” said Roberto Colaninno, Piaggio Chairman “The new Italian two-wheel group, with revenues of 1.5 billion euro, a production capacity of over 600,000 vehicles a year and a presence in 50 countries, is ready to take up the challenge of the major international producers.”

“The acquisition of Aprilia” Colaninno added “is the result of the restoration and re-launch of Piaggio and will enable the full recovery of one of the most prestigious Italian motorcycle groups, with brands that are famous worldwide. It is a business transaction undertaken in full cooperation with the Italian banking system and which strengthens the Piaggio Group and projects its potential on a global scale”.

“The new Group” said Piaggio Chief Executive Officer Rocco Sabelli “has one of the most complete and diversified product ranges on the market, from 50cc scooters to 1000cc motorbikes, with a 24% market share in Europe and 35% in Italy, 8 industrial plants worldwide, six research and development centers, and 6,000 employees. We wish to maintain our ability to compete: the inclusion of the Aprilia Group in Piaggio will make our presence in key markets more incisive and will allow us to further increase and develop our investments in technological and productive innovation.”

From a press release issued by Shoei Safety Helmets:

Shoei Safety Helmet Corporation is pleased to announce that Attack Kawasaki rider Ben Attard will be protected by Shoei during the 2005 AMA racing season. Hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow Australian and 5 time AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin, Ben has crossed the Pacific Ocean to race the AMA Formula Xtreme and Super Sport series’. Ben finished 9th last year in the Super Sport series with help from the Corona Suzuki team, and looks to improve that standing aboard his new Kawasakis.

Ben said, “I’ve used Shoei helmets in the past, and I’m really happy to be back in the best helmets in the world. It’s been a while since I’ve tried one on, and I can’t believe how light Shoei’s X-Eleven is. Knowing I’m protected by the best certainly makes me more comfortable when I’m pushing it out on the track.”

Shoei hopes that Ben will join the long list of racers that have relied on our helmets to provide the safety and comfort they need to bring home championships.

More, from a press release issued by Motonation, U.S. importer for Sidi Boots:

Ben Attard changes teams but stays with Sidi.

New Zealand’s Ben Attard decided to change his bike team for 2005, now a part of the Attack Kawasaki squad, but there was one area of his program he did not want to mess with – his boots!

Having used Sidi in his first season in the USA and helping to develop the new Vertigo Corsa model Ben thought it would be crass to even consider listening to other boot offers. Staying with Sidi Ben can look forward to the best in protection and control in his Sidi Vertigo Corsa boots as well as many off weekend trips to Mexico with the Motonation team and company
mascot Tony the Burro.

Editorial Note: Attard is a native of Australia.

From a press release issued by Proforma:

Jason Pridmore’s STAR Motorcycle School 2005 Schedule:

March 21-22 Streets of Willow

March 26-27 Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch

April 11-12 Thunder Hill Raceway

April 13 Thunder Hill Raceway – Pro School

May 23-24 Second Creek Raceway

June 13-14 Road America

June 20-21 Autobahn Country Club

July 18-19 Autobahn Country Club

August 8-9 New Hampshire Int’l Raceway

August 15-16 Gingerman Raceway

August 20-21 Autobahn Country Club

August 25-26 Jennings GP

Sept 8-9 Hallet Raceway

Sept 26-27 Streets of Willow

Oct 3-4 Thunder Hill Raceway

Oct 5 Thunder Hill Raceway – Pro School

Nov 12-13 Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch

For more information, visit http://www.starmotorcycle.com/, or call (805)658-6333.