Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Australian racer Andrew Pitt, 27, has been signed to the Moriwaki Racing team to test and race its Honda V5-powered MD211VF prototype in as many as five MotoGP rounds.

Pitt is currently testing the Moriwaki machine on Dunlop tires at Sepang in Malaysia alongside several other MotoGP teams.

MD211VF project leader Mamoru Moriwaki told reporters that Pitt started his test Tuesday on the same spec bike that Tamaki Serizawa rode in the MotoGP race at Motegi last year and will move on to the 2004-version of the machine on Wednesday.

Pitt, the 2001 FIM Supersport World Champion, rode for Fuchs Kawasaki in 2003 and finished 26th, last, in the MotoGP Championship standings with a best finish of 14th at Assen.

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Mies, January 20, 2004

Nicolas Schmit

FIM Honorary President Nicolas Schmit passed away on Sunday evening in Luxembourg, at the age of 85.

Mr Schmit was elected FIM President at the Congress in Benalmadena, Spain, in October 1983, as the successor of Don Nicolas Rodil del Valle, and then re-elected in 1986 at the Congress of Palermo (Italy) for a second three-year mandate. He retired in 1989 at the Congress of Maastricht.

Nicolas Schmit entered the FIM at the 1966 Congress in Warsaw, as a member of the Commission Internationale de Tourisme Motocycliste. At the Congress in Ljubljana in 1969 he became Treasurer of the FIM, a function he would keep until his election as FIM President in 1983. He was also President of the Motor Union of Luxembourg for several years.

The funeral will be held for the family only. A mass will be celebrated at the decanal church in Wiltz, Luxembourg, on Thursday 22 January at 16h30.

All the members of the FIM present their sincere condolences to his family and friends.

From a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

MotoGP Test, January 20 2004, Sepang, Malaysia

2004 pre-season in full swing for Honda riders at Sepang

The New Year saw its first MotoGP action at the Sepang Circuit today, with a packed test session at the Malaysian track bringing to an end the testing prohibition in place for the last month. In contrast to the thunderous downpours that shrouded the region on the eve of the test, the Honda riders were greeted with bright sunshine on their arrival at the circuit around 9am, and began work right away to avoid the forecast afternoon drenching.

With the air temperature hovering between the 30º C and 35º C mark throughout the day, testing is tough at this circuit for both rider and machine, but the limit-pushing extremes of this, the accommodating yet challenging circuit and the constant warm asphalt temperatures mean that testing here is vital to most team’s pre-season plans. Camel Pramac Pons’ Max Biaggi is a past winner here, and is no stranger to the conditions, he clocked a lap time of 2:03.47 today, breaking the lap record set in the race here just three months ago. Following him past this benchmark was Telefonica MoviStar Honda’s Sete Gibernau, who set a best lap of 2:03.51, last year’s runner-up keen not to be outdone in the early psychological battles.

Gibernau’s new team-mate Colin Edwards continues his rapid adaptation to the RC211V, setting a 2:04.26, with Camel Honda’s Makoto Tamada enjoying the extreme track conditions to record a 2:04.00 on his Bridgestone shod RCV. Nicky Hayden made his first ride of the 2004 pre-season after undergoing surgery on his thumb, and posted a 2:04.72, whilst Tohru Ukawa rode a development machine in his new role as HRC’s official test rider, clocking 2:05.66. The riders stopped around an hour early at 4pm due to light rain affecting parts of the track.

Max Biaggi – 2:03.47. 47 laps

I had a good month’s rest, which we need to recharge the batteries for this pan-continental test. I like the conditions here in Malaysia, hot and humid, when you haven’t got too many things to test, it’s certainly good physical preparation. We are working on a single bike here, waiting for the new machines, and we are testing mainly suspension and tyres. It’s good, because it will make a good comparison when the 2004 bike arrives and we test it here next month.

Sete Gibernau – 2:03.51. 58 laps

I’ve trained well so it wasn’t really a problem riding today in the heat, although obviously you have to settle into things first. My morale is so high at the moment, and it’s helped today by the fact that we have already made improvements on the race record time. We worked mainly on tyres today, and with Michelin’s 17″ front. For the rest of the test we’ll probably move on to suspension and other such things, but I’m happy with our work today.

Makoto Tamada- 2:04.00. 41 laps.

We didn’t really work on tyres today as I expected, and concentrated more on the machine set-up as a whole, which showed some good results. The conditions are difficult here, but today as a whole was good, I’ve done my training well, so it was no problem for me at all. The rest of this test we will dedicate now to the tyres above all.

Colin Edwards – 2:04.72. 51 laps.

We were working a bit on the set-up, which isn’t too different from that of Valencia to be honest, and also playing with a few different rims, working with Michelin. We’ve tried a lot of that before so not much new there. As for my adaptation to the new bike in these conditions, after having been in the mountains and with thin air for a month I thought I might come here a hero, but it’s still too hot! As regards my adaptation, Hondas have a certain character, and whether it’s Superbike or MotoGP, it’s got those similar characteristics, so it’s never a problem for me, just getting back into the swing.

Nicky Hayden – 2:04.72. 57 laps

“That was great to get back on the bike and open the throttle after what has felt like quite a time. It’s good to see all the team again – exactly the same as last year so it feels real comfortable. We had a little difficulty at the start of the session but quickly resolved it and started to have fun. I had hoped to carry on more but the rain came so we packed up mid-afternoon. We’ve still got two days here, which is good. My hand has held up well today; feels a lil’ weak but that’s not surprising. A pretty good and enjoyable first day back.”

Tohru Ukawa – 2:05.66. 62 laps.

So this is the first time for me as a test rider, which is a strange situation. I’m happy with the direction that the development bike is going, with the new engine, frame and suspension spec all looking good to me. However I wasn’t happy with my lap time. The bike feels comfortable and everything, and physically I am okay, I think that just as test rider it will take time to get used to. There are still two days though, so by the last day I hope to have set a good time.

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Engineers and technicians from Bridgestone, Dunlop and Michelin are all present during MotoGP team tests currently under way at Sepang, Malaysia.

All three companies are conducting continuing development testing with their sponsored teams and are apparently unphased and unhindered by the presence of their competitors in the ongoing MotoGP tire war.

From a press release issued by Bridgestone:

Bridgestone Increases Road Race Contingencies for 2004

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Bridgestone/Firestone North
American Tire, LLC (BFNT) has announced an increase in the amount of contingencies offered to riders who participate in 2004 events sanctioned by fourteen various motorcycle clubs and organizations around the country. Winners using Bridgestone tires will earn a minimum of $100 in expert classes, up to $250 in Formula USA competition and $500 in AMA sanctioned nationals.

“We wanted to be sure that the riders who support our products are being rewarded,” said Bob Graham, Motorcycle & Kart Product Manager for BFNT.

“We have very competitive products that can get the job done on the track, but sometimes it takes a little incentive to get riders to make
the switch,” added Graham. “Some of the technology that we have learned in our MotoGP tire development will now be seen in a few of the tires that we offer in American competition.”

Bridgestone offers race tires for all motorcycle road racing divisions, including; Supersport, Superstock, Formula Extreme, Superbike, 250 Grand Prix and 125 Grand Prix.

All winnings will be paid in the form of tire certificates that can be used to purchase additional tires through Performance Tire Service Company in Indianapolis, Ind.

For a complete listing of 2004 contingencies, logon to www.motorcycle-karttires.com. If additional information is needed, please contact Bob Graham at 615-937-3442 or PTSC at 800-828-91343.

The Nashville-based Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire, LLC, is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc., whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is the world’s largest tire and rubber company. BFNT develops, manufactures, and markets Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton and associate and private brand tires. The company is focused on wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off-road, agricultural, motorcycle and other tires to its customers in North America.

From a press release issued by Proton Team KR:

Nobu Signs for 2004

Nobu Aoki stays with Proton Team KR for 2004

Japanese racing star Nobuatsu Aoki (32) will race the second-generation Proton KR V5 in 2004, for his third year with the independent England-based racing team.

Aoki, who was the first rider to score championship points last year on the all-new four-stroke prototype, agreed terms to remain with Proton Team KR early in January.

“I am very glad to stay with this exciting project. I was in it from the start, and it means a lot to me to be able to develop a completely original racing motorcycle,” said Aoki, speaking from his home in Japan.

The popular Nobu, who won a 250 class GP before moving to the premier class, where he finished third overall in his first season, is one of the most experienced riders on the MotoGP grid. He even spent a full year in 2001 as development tester for Bridgestone tyres, further polishing his analytical and development skills.

His experience was an important part of the effort that took the new V5 rapidly forward during its high-intensity race-development programme.

“All last year, the bike improved. Then after the season I tested a development chassis that was another step – much better rear control, and much easier to slide. The engine is also getting better.

“This team is always going forward. That is why I am so happy to be part of it,” he added.

“Of course, most of all I like to race. We all want the same thing. To make the V5 fully competitive as soon as possible.”

Team owner Kenny Roberts expressed his confidence in the Japanese rider, who combines development talent with a strongly competitive streak, once the race begins.

“Nobu has done a great job for the team over the last two years – making the most of things when the chances come up, and sticking with the programme during the difficult early development times of the new four-stroke.

“Of course it’s important to have continuity in developing a machine, and Nobu gives us that continuity,” said Roberts.

From a press release:

Learning Curves Race Licensing Clinics:
March 27 Heartland Park Raceway, KS
April 10 Virginia Intl’ Raceway, VA
April 23(Friday) Road America, WI
May 8 Blackhawk Farms, IL
May 15 Gateway Intl’ Raceway, IL
May 29 Blackhawk Farms, IL
June 12 Roebling Road Raceway, GA
June 19 Heartland Park Raceway, KS
June 26 Virginia Intl’ Raceway, VA
July 2(Friday) Mid America Motorplex, IO
July 17 Blackhawk Farms,IL
July 24 Roebling Road, GA
Aug. 1 Gingerman Raceway, MI
Aug. 14 Barber Motorsports Park, AL
Aug. 28 Blackhawk Farms, IL
Sept. 18 Blackhawk Farms, IL
Sept. 25 Virginia Intl’ Raceway, VA
Oct. 9 Gingerman Raceway, MI
Nov. 13 Heartland Park Raceway, KS

Learning Curves Advanced Racing Clinics
May 10 Blackhawk Farms, IL
May 31 Blackhawk Farms, IL

Learning Curves Ladies Only Street Clinics
July 19 Blackhawk Farms, IL
Aug. 30 Blackhawk Farms, IL

See the Learning Curves website for more details:

http://www.learningcurves,com
or E-mail: [email protected]

From a press release issued by CRA:

The Central Roadracing Association announces its 2004 Race Schedule

Come join us at one of the fastest tracks in the country, and test your skills on BIR’s mile-long straight away, and wide-open turn #1.

Round 1
April 30-May 2nd Brainerd International Raceway *New Riders School

Round 2
May 21-May 23 Mid America Motorplex *New Riders School

Round 3
June 18-June 20 BIR

Round 4
July 16-18 BIR

Round 5
Sept 10-12 BIR *5hr Endurance

Other notes
New Riders Classroom April 4th at Thunderbird Motel

For information and details check our Website www.cra-mn.com

Mark Miller
Vice-President, CRA
[email protected]
651-247-6405

From a press release:

Aprilia USA and Moto Guzzi North America Announce Flagship Manhattan Destination Store

Designed for moto and fashion enthusiasts on the move, SoHo’s newest store is a gallery of stylish motorcycles, scooters and urban gear

Woodstock, GA – Aprilia USA and Moto Guzzi North America, Italy’s on-the-move motorcycle and scooter manufacturers, today announced the opening of an expansive new store, showroom and service center at 155 Sixth Avenue and Spring Street. Located in the heart of Manhattan’s SoHo district, among eclectic art galleries, unique accessory shops and trend-setting Italian brand stores like Prada, Aprilia Moto Guzzi New York isn’t just designed to thrill the two-wheel crowd with award-winning scooters and motorcycles, but also features unique gear, parts, accessories, service operations and an environment tailor-made for benchracing. The 7,500- square foot, tri-level store, designed to a metallic black, brushed aluminum and red color palette, is a must-see destination for anyone who loves Italian and European style and fashion, from tailored leather wear and the latest eyewear styles to carbon fiber pens and cappuccino.

The 7,500-plus square-foot store features both Italian manufacturers’ complete lines of bikes and scooters, including the new Aprilia RSV 1000 R Factory super bike, the category-defining Aprilia 500 Atlantic touring scooter, the revolutionary new Moto Guzzi MGS-01 sport bike and the new mid sized 750cc Moto Guzzi Breva. Visitors will also discover the latest in helmets, protective gear, boots, racing leathers, cargo carriers and more. Motorcyclists will also want to preview the store’s pristine, multi-lift service operations, featuring racing-red bays and flooring as well as the very latest in tools and equipment. The SoHo store opening follows Aprilia’s recent debut of an exclusive scooter boutique within Marshall Field’s flagship Chicago retail store.

“SoHo is the ideal location for our latest expansion,” said Tom McDonald, Vice President and General Manager, Aprilia World Service USA, Inc., the U.S. importer and distributor of both brands. “New York and Soho are synonymous with freedom of expression, and that’s a characteristic shared by all moto enthusiasts.” McDonald pointed out that Aprilia and Moto Guzzi offer an unparalleled number of transportation and lifestyle choices. Aprilia, for example, offers more innovative scooter models to U.S. customers than any other company, ranging in engine size from 50cc to 500cc. In addition, Aprilia offers two models featuring patented Ditech, direct injection technology which allows performance up to 114 mpg. The company also features high-performance motorcycles that dominate on the track while doubling as pieces of visual art. Moto Guzzi cruisers, standards and sport bikes have a character all their own and remain unique featuring their transverse V-twin power plant and shaft drive.

Aprilia Moto Guzzi New York is the second retail location for Howie Mansdorf, who also owns Extreme Motorsports in Freeport, NY. Mansdorf will also manage the new Soho location.

“Whether visitors are looking for a new set of wheels to get around—or out of—Manhattan, or are in the market for this season’s hottest gear and fashion accessories, we’ve created Aprilia Moto Guzzi New York to become a haven for anyone tuned into Italian style, performance and la dolce vitae.”

Current store hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 9 am to 6 pm, Friday 9 am to 8 pm and Saturday 10 am to 5 pm. Summer hours will be added for Sundays and Mondays.



About Aprilia USA

Aprilia is Europe’s second largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturer. Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Noale, Italy—just outside Venice—the company is privately owned and has eight subsidiaries in key world markets. Aprilia World Service USA, Inc. is the company’s U.S. importer and distributor. The subsidiary is headquartered in Woodstock, Georgia, just a few miles north of metro Atlanta and at the entrance to some of the best riding roads in America. Aprilia USA’s 128 U.S. dealerships offer a full line of performance motorcycles and scooters, as well as electric bicycles. For information on Aprilia’s complete model line, visit www.apriliausa.com.


About Moto Guzzi North America

Moto Guzzi, the oldest continuous European manufacturer of motorcycles in the world, was founded in 1921 in Mandello del Lario, Italy, where the motorcycles are still manufactured today. The “Eagle” brand won its first racing prize, the Targa Florio, that same year and became a long-time force in European racing. Known for its signature 90° V-twin engine, Moto Guzzi later gained enthusiasts the world over with its classic touring machines as well. In 2000, Moto Guzzi was acquired by Aprilia S.p.A. and is a member of Aprilia World Service, USA, Inc. In 2004 sixteen motorcycle models as well as a complete line of apparel and accessories are offered through Moto Guzzi North America, the sole authorized distributor for motorcycles, parts and accessories to a growing dealer network in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, consumers can visit the Moto Guzzi North America web site at www.motoguzzi-us.com or phone 678-238-0902 for more information.