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Yamaha Releases 2005 Road Race Contingency Details

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

YAMAHA POSTS $1 MILLION ROAD RACE CONTINGENCY PROGRAM

CYPRESS, Calif., January 5, 2005 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, recently announced its 2005 U.S. road racing contingency program that offers over $1 million to regional and professional racers. Commenting on the program, Yamaha Racing Division Manager Keith McCarty said, “Our strong incentive program is designed to show our commitment to racing and reward Yamaha racers who put it on the box.” He added that last year’s strong contingency payouts and AMA Pro Racing results prove that the YZF-R6 and Superstock championship winning YZF-R1 are strong racing platforms and concluded, “this program is just the icing on the cake!”

Program details, list of eligible races and enrollment forms can be found at www.yamaha-motor.com.

Duhamel Leads AMA Test Times Wednesday Morning At Daytona

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Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

American Honda’s Miguel Duhamel was the quickest rider Wednesday morning at the multi-team tire test at Daytona International Speedway.

Duhamel lowered his time to 1:40.987 by switching to Ohlins suspension on his CBR1000RR “kit” Superbike and making some small adjustments, according to his Crew Chief Al Ludington.

Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin’s Neil Hodgson and Eric Bostrom were second- and third-fastest, respectively, Wednesday morning, with Bostrom making the large improvement due to his growing comfort with his 999 factory Superbike.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates made his first serious runs of the test on his new 2005 GSX-R1000 Superbike and concentrated mainly on getting the riding position right on his new bike. He will do an intensive tire test program Wednesday afternoon.

In limited time on a shared Michael Jordan Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R1000, Jason Pridmore was the fastest Superstock rider with a 1:42.150. Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s new rider Geoff May, however, was the second-fastest Superstock man at Daytona Wednesday morning on only his 17th lap on the same Pirelli-shod 2005 GSX-R1000 that his teammate Vincent Haskovec tested Monday and Tuesday.

Haskovec started looking for a baseline on his GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme bike Wednesday morning.

Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was once again the fastest 600cc rider, turning a 1:43.576 on his Supersport-spec YZF-R6 Wednesday.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Ben Spies spent most of this morning turning his first laps of the test on his GSX-R600 Supersport bike. He will switch back to his Superbike in the afternoon.

2004 AMA Supermoto Champion Jeff Ward rode an Erion Honda CBR600RR Formula Xtreme bike Wednesday morning, quickly getting down to the 1:51-range, where he said he was comfortable.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Mat Mladin, the fastest man during the first two days of the test, did not ride Wednesday after crashing heavily Tuesday afternoon. As eyewitness accounts of Mladin’s crash come in, it becomes increasingly apparent that he is lucky to have come away with only a chipped ankle bone and mild concussion.

Wearing a light splint on his left ankle and walking with crutches, Mladin came to the track as a spectator Wednesday and told reporters that he plans to see a doctor in Southern California Thursday, before heading home to Australia. He hopes he will not require surgery and will be ready to continue testing in February, when the next test is scheduled.

Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Mike Ciccotto also sat out Wednesday, after crashing his XB12R Formula Xtreme bike in the chicane Tuesday. Ciccotto told Roadracingworld.com that he suffered soft tissue injuries to his right hand and shoulder, as well as his neck and head, when he hit the barrier on rider’s left in the chicane.

The weather at Daytona has been picture-perfect since a brief, light rain shower hit the track at lunch time on Monday.

Wednesday Morning’s Best Lap Times (as supplied by AMA Pro Racing):

1. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:40.987
2. Neil Hodgson, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.027
3. Eric Bostrom, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.078
4. Aaron Yates, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:41.106
5. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:41.602
6. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:42.084
7. Jason Pridmore, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.150
8. Geoff May, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.334
9. Steve Rapp, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.334
10. Josh Hayes, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.060
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:43.102
12. Aaron Gobert, Yam YZF-R1 Superstock, 1:43.268
13. Jason DiSalvo, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:43.576
14. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR Supersport, 1:44.367
15. Damon Buckmaster, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.454
16. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:45.112
17. Michael Barnes, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:45.261
18. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme, 1:45.334
19. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:45.466
20. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:45.470
21. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:46.181
22. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:47.250
23. Montez Stewart, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:47.719
24. Ben Attard, Kaw ZX-6RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.965
25. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:48.341
26. Jeff Ward, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:51.813
27. Dan Bilansky, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:53.872


Wednesday Morning’s Fastest Trap Speeds At Start/Finish (as supplied by AMA Pro Racing):

Superbike: Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR, 192.361 mph
Superstock: Geoff May, Suz GSX-R1000, 188.367 mph
Formula Xtreme: Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR, 175.363 mph
Supersport: Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR, 172.975 mph


MRA Releases 2005 Racing Schedule

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From a press release:

MRA 2005 Season Schedule:

April ’05

April 2nd, 3rd – MRA School – Continental Divide Raceway

April 16th, 17th – MRA School – Continental Divide Raceway


May ’05

Saturday, April 30th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, May 1st Race #1 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park

Wedesday May 11 – Friday May 13th
Racing 2 Save Lives Endurance Fundraiser

Saturday, May 14th – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, May 15th Race #2 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway


June ’05

Saturday, June 4th – Second Creek Raceway
Afternoon Endurance Races

Sunday, June 5th Race #3 – Second Creek Raceway

Saturday, June 18th – Continental Divide Raceway
Afternoon Endurance Races

Sunday, June 19th Race #4 – Continental Divide Raceway


July ’05

Saturday, July 16th – La Junta Motorsports Park

Sunday, July 17th Race #5 – La Junta Motorsports Park


August ’05

Saturday, Aug 13th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Aug 14th Race #6 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park


September ’05

Saturday, Sept 3rd – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races (dbl points!)

Sunday, Sept 4th Race #7 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway (double header!)

Monday, Sept 5th Race #8 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway (double header!)

Saturday, Sept 24th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Sept 25th Race #9 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park


October ’05

Saturday, Oct 1st – Second Creek Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Oct 2nd Race #10 – Second Creek Raceway

**DOUBLE HEADER WEEKEND. We will run the normal Saturday schedule and the normal Sunday schedule. We will then run the Sunday schedule again on Monday. All classes run on Saturday will be double points. This results in 10 points paying events for the Sunday classes and the equivalent of 10 points events for the Saturday classes. Normal entry fees will apply to the Monday schedule, you will have to sign up and pay for Monday in addition to Sunday.

For more information and directions to the tracks go to www.mra-racing.org

Kawasaki Announces Changes To Owners Club Program

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From a press release issued by Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.:

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. announced the launch of the new Kawasaki owners club, effective immediately, which replaces the Good Times™ Owners Club (GTOC) and enhances member benefits to make Kawasaki motorcycle ownership even more enjoyable.

The new Riders of Kawasaki (ROK) owners club expands the benefits available to owners of street-legal Kawasaki motorcycles, including Vulcan® cruisers, Ninja® sportbikes and dual-purposes motorcycles such as the adventure-oriented KLR650. Member benefits include six issues of the new ROK magazine, special promotional packages and VIP hospitality at select national events, such as AMA Superbike races, and a membership kit.

ROK also offers a premium membership package that includes a 24-hour roadside assistance program with coverage extending from the continental United States to Canada, Alaska and Hawaii.

To help spread the word about ROK, Kawasaki is giving a free one-year membership, including the roadside assistance package, to those who purchase a new 2005 Kawasaki street bike. Plus, those who have a current GTOC membership will automatically become a ROK member with full premium package benefits. At the end of the one-year complimentary membership, however, those who wish to renew their membership must contact ROK to make arrangements to pay the annual fees for either the basic or premium package benefits.

Tom Orbe, vice president of sales and marketing at Kawasaki, said ROK was created to enhance the Kawasaki ownership experience while introducing a growing market of new riders to motorcycling.

“ROK is our way of showing appreciation to our loyal customers,” said Orbe. “It’s also a great way to introduce new buyers to an exciting lifestyle.”

An additional ROK benefit for new riders is that, upon completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course or Keith Code’s California Superbike School, Kawasaki will give new members a $50 gift certificate redeemable toward parts, accessories, apparel and service at any Kawasaki dealership.

Orbe added that while many owners clubs often attract older riders with many years of experience, ROK is for all ages and riding styles.

“Some clubs tend to focus a little more on one aspect of riding, such as touring, whereas ROK embraces every style of Kawasaki street bike,” he said. “Whether you’re into Ninja sportbikes, naked bikes or adventure-touring on a KLR650, it helps to provide more opportunities to ride and meet other people who enjoy doing the same things.”

For more information about joining ROK, consumers should visit their local Kawasaki dealer or call 1-877-ROK-CLUB. They can also apply for membership online at www.kawasaki.com.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and sells at wholesale Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, personal watercraft, utility vehicles and power products through a network of more than 1,500 independent retailers, with an additional 8,400 retailers specializing in power products and general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 2,400 people in the United States, with more than 350 of them located at the Irvine, California headquarters.

Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.™”, is recognized worldwide and the brand is aggressively carrying its heritage of leading-edge power, performance and exhilaration into the 21st century. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of recreational products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

British Superbike’s Rizla Suzuki Names New Oil Sponsor

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From a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki:

Shell Advances into the 2005 British Superbike Championship with Rizla Suzuki

RIZLA SUZUKI’S new for 2005 lubricant partner Shell Advance Motorcycle Oils vows its products will help riders John Reynolds and Scott Smart to get the most performance possible from their GSX-R1000K5 race bikes.

Shell Advance Motorcycle Oils are well known for their ability to increase engine performance while maintaining reliability – and these are the two key areas the Rizla Suzuki technicians will be focussing on as they develop the all-new GSX-R1000K5 into a Championship contender.

Boasting a top pedigree in the World Superbike and MotoGP Championships, Shell uses its wealth of racing experience to produce top quality Advance Motorcycle Oils for road use. The off-the-shelf Shell Advance Ultra 4 Motorcycle Oil that anyone can buy from Shell garage forecourts or local motorcycle dealers will be used in the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5.

Shell Advance is also promising to use its technical partnership with Rizla Suzuki to further refine and develop its Advance motorcycle oils for both track and road use. The highly tuned Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 being piloted by reigning BSB Champion JR and his hard-riding team mate Scott Smart will be the perfect test-bed for Shell Advance as it develops new motorcycle oil technology.

Shell UK Motorcycle Sector Manager Les Dash said: “Rizla Suzuki is the premier professional team in the British Superbike Championship and that reflects how we want to position Shell Advance in terms of the quality and performance of the range of products.

“We are absolutely committed to making the best Advance Motorcycle Oil possible and through our technical relationship with Rizla Suzuki we will be able to test our oil in the most competitive Superbike Championship in the world. Shell Advance is a range of dedicated motorcycle products and we now have a significant amount of experience in the Global MCO market and in motorcycle racing – Rizla Suzuki is the most dynamic and successful outfit in the UK and we are delighted to be joining the team.”

Rizla Suzuki team manager Robert Wicks said: “There isn’t a bigger name in motorcycle oil than Shell Advance and it is a real credit that this brand has picked Rizla Suzuki for a technical partnership.

“We shall use the off-the-shelf Shell Advance Ultra 4 fully synthetic oil for racing, confident it can deliver excellent engine power and reliability. The fact this product is available to buy for use in road bikes is amazing and shows how Shell Advance returns its racing technology and science to the end-user. We will also assist in developing new variations of oil to help Shell Advance stay well ahead of its competition, it is the perfect partnership.”

The British Superbike Championship starts on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th at Brands Hatch in Kent.

Several Racers To Appear At This Weekend’s International Motorcycle Supershow In Toronto, Canada

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From a press release issued by event organizers:

Canadian Racing Champions & Racers a big part of SUPERSHOW 2005

Toronto, Ontario, Canada – The 29th Annual International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW will be an extensive showcase of Everything in Motorcycling, opening this Friday, January 7th running through Sunday, January 9th at the Toronto International Centre, 6900 Airport Road.

Racers at this year’s SUPERSHOW include Canadian Champions Pascal Picotte, Jordan Szoke and Steve Crevier appearing on the Joe Rocket Racers Stage, as well as Michael Taylor, Frank Trombino, Steve Beattie, Pierce Chamberlain, Harley Dunn, Dave Connery, and Michelle Duff.

Saturday’s MAX Awards (Motorcycle Awards of Excellence) will present awards to the 2004 racing champions of all disciplines including International Competition, as well as to sponsors, media, and special ambassadors to motorcycling chosen by the MAX Awards committee. The presentation begins at 3:00pm on Saturday at the Joe Rocket Stage.

The 2005 New Model Motorcycles are featured predominantly in Hall 3, the Main Industry Hall. There are street bikes, touring bikes, cruisers, trikes, scooters, race bikes, exotics and more. Riders will be able purchase their new bike right at the Show! The Canadian Motorcycle Heritage Museum, also in Hall 3, has a great Tribute to Canadian Road Racing with 22 legendary bikes on display.

The SUPERSHOW is North America’s Largest motorcycle consumer Show with more than 300,000 square feet of motorcycle vendors and displays. Motorcycle enthusiasts will be checking out over a thousand motorcycles of all descriptions and meeting fellow riders at this traditional Social Event of the year. For more information on the SUPERSHOW go to www.supershowevents.com or call (905)655-5403.

High Demand Leads To Second Batch Of Yamaha FJR1300s For America

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

YAMAHA ANSWERS FJR 1300 DEMAND WITH SECOND ORDER PERIOD

CYPRESS, Calif., – Due to high demand for its award-winning 2005 FJR1300 Super Sport Touring motorcycle, Yamaha Motor Corporation recently announced a second priority delivery program for its coveted 2005 FJR1300 and FJR1300ABS. A customer’s $500 dealer deposit secures a unit for priority delivery beginning in March, 2005; with all deliveries expected to be completed by early spring. Since there are only a limited number available, the program will end when the production quantity has sold out.

According to Mark Dipko, Yamaha Motorcycle Marketing Manager, “Customer response to the FJR has been overwhelming. Each year sales have increased by over 25% and the FJR’s popularity continues to grow. To fill that demand, we requested additional production that will begin in January with delivery to customers at the beginning of the riding season.”

The model will be available in the popular Galaxy Blue color. MSRP for the standard FJR1300 is $12,099 and $13,199 for the FJR1300 ABS. For more product or program details, customers can visit any Yamaha dealer or go to www.yamaha-motor.com.

AGV Sport Sponsors Coolskunk KyDs Race Team

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From a press release issued by Coolskunk KyDs:

AGV Sport Group Sponsors Development Program for Young Dirt Trackers

Coolskunk Promotions announces new sponsor AGV Sports for the 2005 season. Founded in 1985, AGV Sports Group is one of the oldest rider-owned and operated apparel companies in the motorcycle industry.

The list of riders who have worn AGV Sport products at some point during their career reads like a Who’s Who of road racing – Randy Mamola, Loris Capirossi, Troy Bayliss, Keith Code, Roland Sands, Tom Kipp, Mike Smith, Gary Rothwell, Kurtis Roberts, Tommy Hayden, Steve Crevier, Ben Bostrom, Eric Bostrom, Thomas Stevens, Pascal Picotte, Roland Sands, Mike Hale, Randy Renfrow, Aaron Yates, and of course four-time AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin.

The sponsorship package will include AGV Sport custom leathers for all four members of the Coolskunk KyDs Road Racing Development Team in 2005.

According to Philip Rispoli, Founder of Coolskunk Promotions and the Coolskunk KyDs Road Racing Development Team, “this sponsorship further demonstrates the road racing communities support of our program philosophy of cross-training and making winners both on and off the track. We are excited that the AGV Sport Group would support our efforts to this degree.”

Coolskunk Promotions continues to seek additional companies to represent in 2005 and welcomes product sponsorship and/or race discounts as well as financial support for the Flat Track and Road Race teams.

For more information contact Philip Rispoli, Coolskunk Promotions telephone: 603 479 1259 or email at [email protected] check us out on the web at www.coolskunk.com

Mladin Goes Faster Tuesday Morning At Daytona Tire Test

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Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Mat Mladin was the fastest rider Tuesday at an AMA team test at Daytona International Speedway, turning a 1:40.547, 1.6 seconds faster than the time he led all riders with on Monday.

“It was the fairing,” joked the five-time AMA Superbike Champion, referred to the new carbon-fiber bodywork his GSX-R1000 was equipped with Tuesday. Mladin’s bike wore 2004 bodywork on Monday and a new, prototype 2005 set of bodywork Tuesday. Mladin’s bike also was equipped with a new engine while he mainly tested tires Tuesday morning.

“The track’s getting a bit of rubber down, evidently, because everyone is going quicker,” added the Australian.

Mladin’s teammate Ben Spies also lowered his best time to be second-fastest Tuesday morning, but he told Roadracingworld.com that he was not holding the throttle of his GSX-R1000 Superbike wide open around the 2.95-mile infield road course’s east banking.

Neil Hodgson, who said he had trouble getting used to the speed of Daytona’s high banks yesterday, improved his time even more than Mladin and Spies Tuesday, shaving 1.8 seconds from his Monday time to record a third-fastest 1:41.312 on his Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin 999F05.

The 2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is showing great potential as a Superstock racer at Daytona, as Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates, Michael Jordan Motorsports Suzuki’s Jason Pridmore and Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Vincent Haskovec were the fourth-, fifth- and sixth-fastest riders overall, respectively, and the fastest Superstock riders Tuesday morning.

Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was the fastest 600cc rider Tuesday morning, lapping at 1:43.510 and going past the radar gun at 166 mph on his factory YZF-R6. DiSalvo also had the fastest split time from the start/finish line to the exit of turn one of all riders so far at the test.

The only known crasher Tuesday morning was Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Dan Bilansky, who lost the front end of his XB12R Formula Xtreme bike in the new, turn four right-hander (the replacement to the Dogleg). Bilansky was uninjured in the crash, according to his Crew Chief Terry Galagan.

Alterations to the course between Monday and Tuesday included a change in the transition from the infield road course and the back straightaway and the addition of brake markers at turn one, turn four and the chicane.

Several riders complained about the lack of brake markers Monday.

AMA Pro Racing’s Ron Barrick also said that run-off room at the new turn seven would be increased before the AMA races in March.

Tuesday Morning’s Best Lap Times:

1. Mat Mladin, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:40.547
2. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:41.222
3. Neil Hodgson, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.312
4. Aaron Yates, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:41.671
5. Jason Pridmore, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.175
6. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.589
7. Damon Buckmaster, Yam YZF-R1 Superstock, 1:42.673
8. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:43.170
9. Josh Hayes, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.330
10. Eric Bostrom, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:43.395
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.484
12. Jason DiSalvo, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:43.510
13. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR Supersport, 1:43.784
14. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:44.053
15. Aaron Gobert, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.156
16. Michael Barnes, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.325
17. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:45.037
18. Steve Rapp, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:46.003
19. Mike Ciccotto, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:46.027
20. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:46.176
21. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:46.423
22. Jake Zemke, CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:46.497
23. Geoff May, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:46.662
24. Ben Attard, Kaw ZX-6RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.302
25. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.351
26. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:47.932
27. Dan Bilansky, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:54.548

CLASS Announces New Programs, Schedule For 2005

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From a press release issued by CLASS:

Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools
Announces 2005 Schedule and New Riding Experiences

CLASS’s Stellar 2005 Program includes: A Trip to Italy with a CLASS Day at Misano, the new “FORCE 5” Riding/Racing Club, Great new pricing on schools and the Safety First Challenge!

SANTA PAULA, CA – Three-time AMA Superbike champion, AMA Hall of Fame member and author Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools has just released its exciting 2005 school schedule and is now enrolling for the ‘05 season. CLASS will visit 9 racetracks around the USA in the new year (a complete calendar follows this release). Once again, hundreds of riders of every level will learn how to confidently ride their motorcycle faster, safer, and smoother than they ever thought possible. And in 2005, Reg has added more exciting horsepower to the CLASS curriculum to pull way ahead of the pack and provide you with greater choices and better savings!

EXCITING CLASS HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2005 INCLUDE:

•A trip to Italy that will include a week of touring on motorcycles plus a day of CLASS at the famous Misano Circuit.

•Incredible new price structuring that saves you money –First Time Friends Days (save $50 when you bring a friend that’s never been to CLASS), Honda Riders Club of America (HRCA) members discounts, plus at least 6 other ways to save money on CLASS in ’05 – not just token discounts, but true deals with serious traction!

•Friends of Reg’s CLASS Experience: “FORCE 5” is a brand new club dedicated to the love of sport bikes and track riding. Members are instantly eligible for some incredible offers including first dibs on tours, great deals on Dunlop tires and even a FREE Power Commander™ (subject to availability). And that’s after they get CLASS for rock bottom pricing. Check it out at www.forceV.org

•The CLASS Safety First Challenge! Turn $50 into $100 toward a CLASS Motorcycle School in Reg Pridmore’s Safety First Challenge. From December 2004 through December 2005 if you purchase a new 2005 sport bike, Reg will offer you $50 toward any CLASS school and challenge your dealer to match his offer to total $100 off your CLASS Motorcycle School. It’s all to help teach and reinforce sport-riding safety and to hopefully save lives! See www.classrides.com for rules and eligibility.

•CLASS returns to VIR: Back by popular demand, Reg will bring the CLASS program back to VIR in July 2005.

•CLASS follows the Road America AMA National: Two CLASS sessions will be held at Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, on June 6 and 7, following the AMA National. Come for the races and stay for 2 days of CLASS on this incredible 4 mile track!

•The CLASS Premier Exec Experience is a two-day CLASS that has all the bells and whistles. All you have to do is arrive at the hotel – we take care of all the details, including a CLASS Honda for the two days, gear, great meals and camaraderie with the CLASS Team and fellow Premier Exec riders, and first class accommodations. Dates include Oct 10/11 at Infineon Raceway (Sears Point). Hurry! This special course sells out quickly!

•Two-Up School at Streets of Willow: History was made at Streets of Willow a couple of years ago as Reg conducted the first ever Two-Up CLASS. It’s a great adventure for the riders and their passengers as they take to the track, pilot and passenger, to work on the finer points of
riding in the great learning environment of this very cool race track. October 6, 2005.

•CLASS Advanced School – For 2005, Reg has slated several advanced days including back to back days at Streets of Willow and Big Willow Springs. Another Advanced School will be held just before the AHRMA races at Mid Ohio in July.

•Bikes for rent! This year at all California CLASS Schools there will be a limited number of bikes for rent. Rent a fast and nimble Honda F4i or the sure-footed VFR800 and ride one of California’s fantastic race circuits.

•The best tracks in the country: As always, CLASS will visit the nation’s top venues, including California tracks such as Infineon Raceway, Willow Springs, Streets of Willow and Laguna Seca; as well as national tracks such as Road America, Mid Ohio, Grattan, VIR and the incredible Barber Motorsports Park.

About CLASS
Three-time AMA Superbike Champ and AMA Hall of Fame member Reg Pridmore has been teaching motorcyclists of all skill levels how to ride quickly, safely, and smoothly since 1974. CLASS (California’s Leading Advanced Safety School) was founded in 1986 and is conducted at leading racetracks around the country, from March through November.

Details on all dates, trips and discounts can be found on the web at www.classrides.com

MarchMon 28 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275First Time Friends Day!
AprilWed 27 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275Advanced CLASS
AprilThu 28Willow Springs (Big track)
Rosamond, CA$295Advanced Track Day
MayMon 9Infineon Raceway*
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School
MayTue 10Infineon Raceway*
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School
MayMon 16Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275Standard School
MayTue 17Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275FTF Day
June Mon 6Road America*
Elkhart Lake, WI$375Standard School
June Tues 7Road America*
Elkhart Lake, WI$295Standard School
JuneMon 13Grattan
Grattan, MI$295FTF Day
July Mon 11T Mid Ohio*
Lexington, OH$375Standard School
July Tue 12 TMid Ohio*
Lexington, OH$295Standard School
July Wed 13 TMid Ohio*
Lexington, OHSee website Advanced Day
July Thu 21 TVirginia Int’l Raceway
Alton, VA$340Standard School
July Fri 22 TVirginia Int’l Raceway
Alton, VA$385Standard School
AugWe’re planning a group trip to Italy sometime in August or September. Details to follow.
Sept
Oct.Thu 6Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$350Two Up School
Oct.Fri 7Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$295Standard School
Oct.Mon 10Infineon Raceway
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School Plus
Premier Exec Experience
Oct.Tue 11Infineon Raceway
Sonoma, CA$395
Oct. Mon 17Barber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, AL$395Standard School
Oct. Tue 18Barber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, AL$395Standard School
Oct. Wed 19TBarber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, ALtbdStandard School
NovThu 10 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275FTF Day
NovFri 11 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$295Standard School
Nov Wed 23T Laguna Seca
Monterey, CA$395Standard School
NovFri 25T Laguna Seca
Monterey, CA$395Standard School

* Near National Race; T = tentative

Yamaha Releases 2005 Road Race Contingency Details

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

YAMAHA POSTS $1 MILLION ROAD RACE CONTINGENCY PROGRAM

CYPRESS, Calif., January 5, 2005 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, recently announced its 2005 U.S. road racing contingency program that offers over $1 million to regional and professional racers. Commenting on the program, Yamaha Racing Division Manager Keith McCarty said, “Our strong incentive program is designed to show our commitment to racing and reward Yamaha racers who put it on the box.” He added that last year’s strong contingency payouts and AMA Pro Racing results prove that the YZF-R6 and Superstock championship winning YZF-R1 are strong racing platforms and concluded, “this program is just the icing on the cake!”

Program details, list of eligible races and enrollment forms can be found at www.yamaha-motor.com.

Duhamel Leads AMA Test Times Wednesday Morning At Daytona



Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

American Honda’s Miguel Duhamel was the quickest rider Wednesday morning at the multi-team tire test at Daytona International Speedway.

Duhamel lowered his time to 1:40.987 by switching to Ohlins suspension on his CBR1000RR “kit” Superbike and making some small adjustments, according to his Crew Chief Al Ludington.

Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin’s Neil Hodgson and Eric Bostrom were second- and third-fastest, respectively, Wednesday morning, with Bostrom making the large improvement due to his growing comfort with his 999 factory Superbike.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates made his first serious runs of the test on his new 2005 GSX-R1000 Superbike and concentrated mainly on getting the riding position right on his new bike. He will do an intensive tire test program Wednesday afternoon.

In limited time on a shared Michael Jordan Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R1000, Jason Pridmore was the fastest Superstock rider with a 1:42.150. Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s new rider Geoff May, however, was the second-fastest Superstock man at Daytona Wednesday morning on only his 17th lap on the same Pirelli-shod 2005 GSX-R1000 that his teammate Vincent Haskovec tested Monday and Tuesday.

Haskovec started looking for a baseline on his GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme bike Wednesday morning.

Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was once again the fastest 600cc rider, turning a 1:43.576 on his Supersport-spec YZF-R6 Wednesday.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Ben Spies spent most of this morning turning his first laps of the test on his GSX-R600 Supersport bike. He will switch back to his Superbike in the afternoon.

2004 AMA Supermoto Champion Jeff Ward rode an Erion Honda CBR600RR Formula Xtreme bike Wednesday morning, quickly getting down to the 1:51-range, where he said he was comfortable.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Mat Mladin, the fastest man during the first two days of the test, did not ride Wednesday after crashing heavily Tuesday afternoon. As eyewitness accounts of Mladin’s crash come in, it becomes increasingly apparent that he is lucky to have come away with only a chipped ankle bone and mild concussion.

Wearing a light splint on his left ankle and walking with crutches, Mladin came to the track as a spectator Wednesday and told reporters that he plans to see a doctor in Southern California Thursday, before heading home to Australia. He hopes he will not require surgery and will be ready to continue testing in February, when the next test is scheduled.

Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Mike Ciccotto also sat out Wednesday, after crashing his XB12R Formula Xtreme bike in the chicane Tuesday. Ciccotto told Roadracingworld.com that he suffered soft tissue injuries to his right hand and shoulder, as well as his neck and head, when he hit the barrier on rider’s left in the chicane.

The weather at Daytona has been picture-perfect since a brief, light rain shower hit the track at lunch time on Monday.

Wednesday Morning’s Best Lap Times (as supplied by AMA Pro Racing):

1. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:40.987
2. Neil Hodgson, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.027
3. Eric Bostrom, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.078
4. Aaron Yates, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:41.106
5. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:41.602
6. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:42.084
7. Jason Pridmore, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.150
8. Geoff May, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.334
9. Steve Rapp, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.334
10. Josh Hayes, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.060
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:43.102
12. Aaron Gobert, Yam YZF-R1 Superstock, 1:43.268
13. Jason DiSalvo, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:43.576
14. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR Supersport, 1:44.367
15. Damon Buckmaster, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.454
16. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:45.112
17. Michael Barnes, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:45.261
18. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R600 Formula Xtreme, 1:45.334
19. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:45.466
20. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:45.470
21. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:46.181
22. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:47.250
23. Montez Stewart, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:47.719
24. Ben Attard, Kaw ZX-6RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.965
25. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:48.341
26. Jeff Ward, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:51.813
27. Dan Bilansky, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:53.872


Wednesday Morning’s Fastest Trap Speeds At Start/Finish (as supplied by AMA Pro Racing):

Superbike: Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR, 192.361 mph
Superstock: Geoff May, Suz GSX-R1000, 188.367 mph
Formula Xtreme: Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR, 175.363 mph
Supersport: Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR, 172.975 mph


MRA Releases 2005 Racing Schedule

From a press release:

MRA 2005 Season Schedule:

April ’05

April 2nd, 3rd – MRA School – Continental Divide Raceway

April 16th, 17th – MRA School – Continental Divide Raceway


May ’05

Saturday, April 30th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, May 1st Race #1 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park

Wedesday May 11 – Friday May 13th
Racing 2 Save Lives Endurance Fundraiser

Saturday, May 14th – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, May 15th Race #2 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway


June ’05

Saturday, June 4th – Second Creek Raceway
Afternoon Endurance Races

Sunday, June 5th Race #3 – Second Creek Raceway

Saturday, June 18th – Continental Divide Raceway
Afternoon Endurance Races

Sunday, June 19th Race #4 – Continental Divide Raceway


July ’05

Saturday, July 16th – La Junta Motorsports Park

Sunday, July 17th Race #5 – La Junta Motorsports Park


August ’05

Saturday, Aug 13th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Aug 14th Race #6 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park


September ’05

Saturday, Sept 3rd – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races (dbl points!)

Sunday, Sept 4th Race #7 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway (double header!)

Monday, Sept 5th Race #8 – Pikes Peak Intl. Raceway (double header!)

Saturday, Sept 24th – Pueblo Mtrsports Park
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Sept 25th Race #9 – Pueblo Mtrsports Park


October ’05

Saturday, Oct 1st – Second Creek Raceway
Afternoon Endurance & SuperMoto Races

Sunday, Oct 2nd Race #10 – Second Creek Raceway

**DOUBLE HEADER WEEKEND. We will run the normal Saturday schedule and the normal Sunday schedule. We will then run the Sunday schedule again on Monday. All classes run on Saturday will be double points. This results in 10 points paying events for the Sunday classes and the equivalent of 10 points events for the Saturday classes. Normal entry fees will apply to the Monday schedule, you will have to sign up and pay for Monday in addition to Sunday.

For more information and directions to the tracks go to www.mra-racing.org

Kawasaki Announces Changes To Owners Club Program

From a press release issued by Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.:

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. announced the launch of the new Kawasaki owners club, effective immediately, which replaces the Good Times™ Owners Club (GTOC) and enhances member benefits to make Kawasaki motorcycle ownership even more enjoyable.

The new Riders of Kawasaki (ROK) owners club expands the benefits available to owners of street-legal Kawasaki motorcycles, including Vulcan® cruisers, Ninja® sportbikes and dual-purposes motorcycles such as the adventure-oriented KLR650. Member benefits include six issues of the new ROK magazine, special promotional packages and VIP hospitality at select national events, such as AMA Superbike races, and a membership kit.

ROK also offers a premium membership package that includes a 24-hour roadside assistance program with coverage extending from the continental United States to Canada, Alaska and Hawaii.

To help spread the word about ROK, Kawasaki is giving a free one-year membership, including the roadside assistance package, to those who purchase a new 2005 Kawasaki street bike. Plus, those who have a current GTOC membership will automatically become a ROK member with full premium package benefits. At the end of the one-year complimentary membership, however, those who wish to renew their membership must contact ROK to make arrangements to pay the annual fees for either the basic or premium package benefits.

Tom Orbe, vice president of sales and marketing at Kawasaki, said ROK was created to enhance the Kawasaki ownership experience while introducing a growing market of new riders to motorcycling.

“ROK is our way of showing appreciation to our loyal customers,” said Orbe. “It’s also a great way to introduce new buyers to an exciting lifestyle.”

An additional ROK benefit for new riders is that, upon completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course or Keith Code’s California Superbike School, Kawasaki will give new members a $50 gift certificate redeemable toward parts, accessories, apparel and service at any Kawasaki dealership.

Orbe added that while many owners clubs often attract older riders with many years of experience, ROK is for all ages and riding styles.

“Some clubs tend to focus a little more on one aspect of riding, such as touring, whereas ROK embraces every style of Kawasaki street bike,” he said. “Whether you’re into Ninja sportbikes, naked bikes or adventure-touring on a KLR650, it helps to provide more opportunities to ride and meet other people who enjoy doing the same things.”

For more information about joining ROK, consumers should visit their local Kawasaki dealer or call 1-877-ROK-CLUB. They can also apply for membership online at www.kawasaki.com.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and sells at wholesale Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, personal watercraft, utility vehicles and power products through a network of more than 1,500 independent retailers, with an additional 8,400 retailers specializing in power products and general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 2,400 people in the United States, with more than 350 of them located at the Irvine, California headquarters.

Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.™”, is recognized worldwide and the brand is aggressively carrying its heritage of leading-edge power, performance and exhilaration into the 21st century. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of recreational products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

British Superbike’s Rizla Suzuki Names New Oil Sponsor

From a press release issued by Rizla Suzuki:

Shell Advances into the 2005 British Superbike Championship with Rizla Suzuki

RIZLA SUZUKI’S new for 2005 lubricant partner Shell Advance Motorcycle Oils vows its products will help riders John Reynolds and Scott Smart to get the most performance possible from their GSX-R1000K5 race bikes.

Shell Advance Motorcycle Oils are well known for their ability to increase engine performance while maintaining reliability – and these are the two key areas the Rizla Suzuki technicians will be focussing on as they develop the all-new GSX-R1000K5 into a Championship contender.

Boasting a top pedigree in the World Superbike and MotoGP Championships, Shell uses its wealth of racing experience to produce top quality Advance Motorcycle Oils for road use. The off-the-shelf Shell Advance Ultra 4 Motorcycle Oil that anyone can buy from Shell garage forecourts or local motorcycle dealers will be used in the Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5.

Shell Advance is also promising to use its technical partnership with Rizla Suzuki to further refine and develop its Advance motorcycle oils for both track and road use. The highly tuned Rizla Suzuki GSX-R1000K5 being piloted by reigning BSB Champion JR and his hard-riding team mate Scott Smart will be the perfect test-bed for Shell Advance as it develops new motorcycle oil technology.

Shell UK Motorcycle Sector Manager Les Dash said: “Rizla Suzuki is the premier professional team in the British Superbike Championship and that reflects how we want to position Shell Advance in terms of the quality and performance of the range of products.

“We are absolutely committed to making the best Advance Motorcycle Oil possible and through our technical relationship with Rizla Suzuki we will be able to test our oil in the most competitive Superbike Championship in the world. Shell Advance is a range of dedicated motorcycle products and we now have a significant amount of experience in the Global MCO market and in motorcycle racing – Rizla Suzuki is the most dynamic and successful outfit in the UK and we are delighted to be joining the team.”

Rizla Suzuki team manager Robert Wicks said: “There isn’t a bigger name in motorcycle oil than Shell Advance and it is a real credit that this brand has picked Rizla Suzuki for a technical partnership.

“We shall use the off-the-shelf Shell Advance Ultra 4 fully synthetic oil for racing, confident it can deliver excellent engine power and reliability. The fact this product is available to buy for use in road bikes is amazing and shows how Shell Advance returns its racing technology and science to the end-user. We will also assist in developing new variations of oil to help Shell Advance stay well ahead of its competition, it is the perfect partnership.”

The British Superbike Championship starts on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th at Brands Hatch in Kent.

Several Racers To Appear At This Weekend’s International Motorcycle Supershow In Toronto, Canada

From a press release issued by event organizers:

Canadian Racing Champions & Racers a big part of SUPERSHOW 2005

Toronto, Ontario, Canada – The 29th Annual International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW will be an extensive showcase of Everything in Motorcycling, opening this Friday, January 7th running through Sunday, January 9th at the Toronto International Centre, 6900 Airport Road.

Racers at this year’s SUPERSHOW include Canadian Champions Pascal Picotte, Jordan Szoke and Steve Crevier appearing on the Joe Rocket Racers Stage, as well as Michael Taylor, Frank Trombino, Steve Beattie, Pierce Chamberlain, Harley Dunn, Dave Connery, and Michelle Duff.

Saturday’s MAX Awards (Motorcycle Awards of Excellence) will present awards to the 2004 racing champions of all disciplines including International Competition, as well as to sponsors, media, and special ambassadors to motorcycling chosen by the MAX Awards committee. The presentation begins at 3:00pm on Saturday at the Joe Rocket Stage.

The 2005 New Model Motorcycles are featured predominantly in Hall 3, the Main Industry Hall. There are street bikes, touring bikes, cruisers, trikes, scooters, race bikes, exotics and more. Riders will be able purchase their new bike right at the Show! The Canadian Motorcycle Heritage Museum, also in Hall 3, has a great Tribute to Canadian Road Racing with 22 legendary bikes on display.

The SUPERSHOW is North America’s Largest motorcycle consumer Show with more than 300,000 square feet of motorcycle vendors and displays. Motorcycle enthusiasts will be checking out over a thousand motorcycles of all descriptions and meeting fellow riders at this traditional Social Event of the year. For more information on the SUPERSHOW go to www.supershowevents.com or call (905)655-5403.

High Demand Leads To Second Batch Of Yamaha FJR1300s For America

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

YAMAHA ANSWERS FJR 1300 DEMAND WITH SECOND ORDER PERIOD

CYPRESS, Calif., – Due to high demand for its award-winning 2005 FJR1300 Super Sport Touring motorcycle, Yamaha Motor Corporation recently announced a second priority delivery program for its coveted 2005 FJR1300 and FJR1300ABS. A customer’s $500 dealer deposit secures a unit for priority delivery beginning in March, 2005; with all deliveries expected to be completed by early spring. Since there are only a limited number available, the program will end when the production quantity has sold out.

According to Mark Dipko, Yamaha Motorcycle Marketing Manager, “Customer response to the FJR has been overwhelming. Each year sales have increased by over 25% and the FJR’s popularity continues to grow. To fill that demand, we requested additional production that will begin in January with delivery to customers at the beginning of the riding season.”

The model will be available in the popular Galaxy Blue color. MSRP for the standard FJR1300 is $12,099 and $13,199 for the FJR1300 ABS. For more product or program details, customers can visit any Yamaha dealer or go to www.yamaha-motor.com.

AGV Sport Sponsors Coolskunk KyDs Race Team

From a press release issued by Coolskunk KyDs:

AGV Sport Group Sponsors Development Program for Young Dirt Trackers

Coolskunk Promotions announces new sponsor AGV Sports for the 2005 season. Founded in 1985, AGV Sports Group is one of the oldest rider-owned and operated apparel companies in the motorcycle industry.

The list of riders who have worn AGV Sport products at some point during their career reads like a Who’s Who of road racing – Randy Mamola, Loris Capirossi, Troy Bayliss, Keith Code, Roland Sands, Tom Kipp, Mike Smith, Gary Rothwell, Kurtis Roberts, Tommy Hayden, Steve Crevier, Ben Bostrom, Eric Bostrom, Thomas Stevens, Pascal Picotte, Roland Sands, Mike Hale, Randy Renfrow, Aaron Yates, and of course four-time AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin.

The sponsorship package will include AGV Sport custom leathers for all four members of the Coolskunk KyDs Road Racing Development Team in 2005.

According to Philip Rispoli, Founder of Coolskunk Promotions and the Coolskunk KyDs Road Racing Development Team, “this sponsorship further demonstrates the road racing communities support of our program philosophy of cross-training and making winners both on and off the track. We are excited that the AGV Sport Group would support our efforts to this degree.”

Coolskunk Promotions continues to seek additional companies to represent in 2005 and welcomes product sponsorship and/or race discounts as well as financial support for the Flat Track and Road Race teams.

For more information contact Philip Rispoli, Coolskunk Promotions telephone: 603 479 1259 or email at [email protected] check us out on the web at www.coolskunk.com

Mladin Goes Faster Tuesday Morning At Daytona Tire Test



Copyright 2005, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s Mat Mladin was the fastest rider Tuesday at an AMA team test at Daytona International Speedway, turning a 1:40.547, 1.6 seconds faster than the time he led all riders with on Monday.

“It was the fairing,” joked the five-time AMA Superbike Champion, referred to the new carbon-fiber bodywork his GSX-R1000 was equipped with Tuesday. Mladin’s bike wore 2004 bodywork on Monday and a new, prototype 2005 set of bodywork Tuesday. Mladin’s bike also was equipped with a new engine while he mainly tested tires Tuesday morning.

“The track’s getting a bit of rubber down, evidently, because everyone is going quicker,” added the Australian.

Mladin’s teammate Ben Spies also lowered his best time to be second-fastest Tuesday morning, but he told Roadracingworld.com that he was not holding the throttle of his GSX-R1000 Superbike wide open around the 2.95-mile infield road course’s east banking.

Neil Hodgson, who said he had trouble getting used to the speed of Daytona’s high banks yesterday, improved his time even more than Mladin and Spies Tuesday, shaving 1.8 seconds from his Monday time to record a third-fastest 1:41.312 on his Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin 999F05.

The 2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is showing great potential as a Superstock racer at Daytona, as Yoshimura Suzuki’s Aaron Yates, Michael Jordan Motorsports Suzuki’s Jason Pridmore and Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Vincent Haskovec were the fourth-, fifth- and sixth-fastest riders overall, respectively, and the fastest Superstock riders Tuesday morning.

Yamaha’s Jason DiSalvo was the fastest 600cc rider Tuesday morning, lapping at 1:43.510 and going past the radar gun at 166 mph on his factory YZF-R6. DiSalvo also had the fastest split time from the start/finish line to the exit of turn one of all riders so far at the test.

The only known crasher Tuesday morning was Hal’s Performance Advantage Buell’s Dan Bilansky, who lost the front end of his XB12R Formula Xtreme bike in the new, turn four right-hander (the replacement to the Dogleg). Bilansky was uninjured in the crash, according to his Crew Chief Terry Galagan.

Alterations to the course between Monday and Tuesday included a change in the transition from the infield road course and the back straightaway and the addition of brake markers at turn one, turn four and the chicane.

Several riders complained about the lack of brake markers Monday.

AMA Pro Racing’s Ron Barrick also said that run-off room at the new turn seven would be increased before the AMA races in March.

Tuesday Morning’s Best Lap Times:

1. Mat Mladin, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:40.547
2. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R1000 Superbike, 1:41.222
3. Neil Hodgson, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:41.312
4. Aaron Yates, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:41.671
5. Jason Pridmore, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.175
6. Vincent Haskovec, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:42.589
7. Damon Buckmaster, Yam YZF-R1 Superstock, 1:42.673
8. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superstock, 1:43.170
9. Josh Hayes, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.330
10. Eric Bostrom, Duc 999F05 Superbike, 1:43.395
11. Roger Lee Hayden, Kaw ZX-10R Superbike, 1:43.484
12. Jason DiSalvo, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:43.510
13. Tommy Hayden, Kaw ZX-6RR Supersport, 1:43.784
14. Miguel Duhamel, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:44.053
15. Aaron Gobert, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.156
16. Michael Barnes, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:44.325
17. Jake Zemke, Hon CBR1000RR Superbike, 1:45.037
18. Steve Rapp, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:46.003
19. Mike Ciccotto, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:46.027
20. Taylor Knapp, Yam YZF-R6 Supersport, 1:46.176
21. Ben Spies, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:46.423
22. Jake Zemke, CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:46.497
23. Geoff May, Suz GSX-R600 Supersport, 1:46.662
24. Ben Attard, Kaw ZX-6RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.302
25. Alex Gobert, Hon CBR600RR Formula Xtreme, 1:47.351
26. Matt Lynn, Suz GSX-R1000 Superstock, 1:47.932
27. Dan Bilansky, Buell XB12R Formula Xtreme, 1:54.548

CLASS Announces New Programs, Schedule For 2005

From a press release issued by CLASS:

Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools
Announces 2005 Schedule and New Riding Experiences

CLASS’s Stellar 2005 Program includes: A Trip to Italy with a CLASS Day at Misano, the new “FORCE 5” Riding/Racing Club, Great new pricing on schools and the Safety First Challenge!

SANTA PAULA, CA – Three-time AMA Superbike champion, AMA Hall of Fame member and author Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools has just released its exciting 2005 school schedule and is now enrolling for the ‘05 season. CLASS will visit 9 racetracks around the USA in the new year (a complete calendar follows this release). Once again, hundreds of riders of every level will learn how to confidently ride their motorcycle faster, safer, and smoother than they ever thought possible. And in 2005, Reg has added more exciting horsepower to the CLASS curriculum to pull way ahead of the pack and provide you with greater choices and better savings!

EXCITING CLASS HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2005 INCLUDE:

•A trip to Italy that will include a week of touring on motorcycles plus a day of CLASS at the famous Misano Circuit.

•Incredible new price structuring that saves you money –First Time Friends Days (save $50 when you bring a friend that’s never been to CLASS), Honda Riders Club of America (HRCA) members discounts, plus at least 6 other ways to save money on CLASS in ’05 – not just token discounts, but true deals with serious traction!

•Friends of Reg’s CLASS Experience: “FORCE 5” is a brand new club dedicated to the love of sport bikes and track riding. Members are instantly eligible for some incredible offers including first dibs on tours, great deals on Dunlop tires and even a FREE Power Commander™ (subject to availability). And that’s after they get CLASS for rock bottom pricing. Check it out at www.forceV.org

•The CLASS Safety First Challenge! Turn $50 into $100 toward a CLASS Motorcycle School in Reg Pridmore’s Safety First Challenge. From December 2004 through December 2005 if you purchase a new 2005 sport bike, Reg will offer you $50 toward any CLASS school and challenge your dealer to match his offer to total $100 off your CLASS Motorcycle School. It’s all to help teach and reinforce sport-riding safety and to hopefully save lives! See www.classrides.com for rules and eligibility.

•CLASS returns to VIR: Back by popular demand, Reg will bring the CLASS program back to VIR in July 2005.

•CLASS follows the Road America AMA National: Two CLASS sessions will be held at Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, on June 6 and 7, following the AMA National. Come for the races and stay for 2 days of CLASS on this incredible 4 mile track!

•The CLASS Premier Exec Experience is a two-day CLASS that has all the bells and whistles. All you have to do is arrive at the hotel – we take care of all the details, including a CLASS Honda for the two days, gear, great meals and camaraderie with the CLASS Team and fellow Premier Exec riders, and first class accommodations. Dates include Oct 10/11 at Infineon Raceway (Sears Point). Hurry! This special course sells out quickly!

•Two-Up School at Streets of Willow: History was made at Streets of Willow a couple of years ago as Reg conducted the first ever Two-Up CLASS. It’s a great adventure for the riders and their passengers as they take to the track, pilot and passenger, to work on the finer points of
riding in the great learning environment of this very cool race track. October 6, 2005.

•CLASS Advanced School – For 2005, Reg has slated several advanced days including back to back days at Streets of Willow and Big Willow Springs. Another Advanced School will be held just before the AHRMA races at Mid Ohio in July.

•Bikes for rent! This year at all California CLASS Schools there will be a limited number of bikes for rent. Rent a fast and nimble Honda F4i or the sure-footed VFR800 and ride one of California’s fantastic race circuits.

•The best tracks in the country: As always, CLASS will visit the nation’s top venues, including California tracks such as Infineon Raceway, Willow Springs, Streets of Willow and Laguna Seca; as well as national tracks such as Road America, Mid Ohio, Grattan, VIR and the incredible Barber Motorsports Park.

About CLASS
Three-time AMA Superbike Champ and AMA Hall of Fame member Reg Pridmore has been teaching motorcyclists of all skill levels how to ride quickly, safely, and smoothly since 1974. CLASS (California’s Leading Advanced Safety School) was founded in 1986 and is conducted at leading racetracks around the country, from March through November.

Details on all dates, trips and discounts can be found on the web at www.classrides.com

MarchMon 28 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275First Time Friends Day!
AprilWed 27 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275Advanced CLASS
AprilThu 28Willow Springs (Big track)
Rosamond, CA$295Advanced Track Day
MayMon 9Infineon Raceway*
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School
MayTue 10Infineon Raceway*
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School
MayMon 16Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275Standard School
MayTue 17Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275FTF Day
June Mon 6Road America*
Elkhart Lake, WI$375Standard School
June Tues 7Road America*
Elkhart Lake, WI$295Standard School
JuneMon 13Grattan
Grattan, MI$295FTF Day
July Mon 11T Mid Ohio*
Lexington, OH$375Standard School
July Tue 12 TMid Ohio*
Lexington, OH$295Standard School
July Wed 13 TMid Ohio*
Lexington, OHSee website Advanced Day
July Thu 21 TVirginia Int’l Raceway
Alton, VA$340Standard School
July Fri 22 TVirginia Int’l Raceway
Alton, VA$385Standard School
AugWe’re planning a group trip to Italy sometime in August or September. Details to follow.
Sept
Oct.Thu 6Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$350Two Up School
Oct.Fri 7Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$295Standard School
Oct.Mon 10Infineon Raceway
Sonoma, CA$395Standard School Plus
Premier Exec Experience
Oct.Tue 11Infineon Raceway
Sonoma, CA$395
Oct. Mon 17Barber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, AL$395Standard School
Oct. Tue 18Barber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, AL$395Standard School
Oct. Wed 19TBarber Motorsports Park
Birmingham, ALtbdStandard School
NovThu 10 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$275FTF Day
NovFri 11 Streets of Willow
Rosamond, CA$295Standard School
Nov Wed 23T Laguna Seca
Monterey, CA$395Standard School
NovFri 25T Laguna Seca
Monterey, CA$395Standard School

* Near National Race; T = tentative