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.

From a press release issued by the AMA:

CALIFORNIA HELMET BILL AMENDED, ORGAN-DONOR PROVISIONS OUT

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has learned that a proposed law in California that could have forced some motorcyclists to become organ donors against their wishes has been amended, and will be reconsidered without the organ-donation provisions.

The amended Assembly Bill 1200 proposes allowing adults 18 and older to decide whether to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. The organ-donation provisions, which had outraged the AMA and motorcyclists nationwide, stated that those who chose not to wear a helmet are “deemed to have consented to the making of an anatomical gift under this act.”

The AMA worked directly with Assemblyman John Longville (D-San Bernardino) to remove all of the organ-donation provisions from AB-1200, which was granted reconsideration and has been referred again to the Assembly Transportation Committee.

“The AMA applauds Assemblyman Longville for his support of voluntary helmet use, and for responding to our concerns about compulsory organ donation,” said AMA Western States Representative Nick Haris. “We encourage California motorcyclists to support the amended AB-1200.”

To express support for the bill via e-mail, go to www.AMADirectlink.com and click on “State,” under “Rights.”

From a press release issued by AMA:

AMA ANNOUNCES ELECTION RESULTS

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced the results of its recent election for the AMA Board of Directors.

Rick Gray has been elected to represent the Northeast region.

Jeff Smith has been elected to represent the North Central region.

Dal Smilie has been elected to represent the Northwest region.

The AMA Board of Directors consists of twelve members. Six individual Directors are elected by the general membership in their respective regions and serve three-year terms. Six corporate Directors are elected by the corporate membership and serve two-year terms. The AMA Board of Directors meets four times a year.

The three new individual Directors will be seated at the Saturday, February 14 session of the scheduled Board meeting, which will follow the election of corporate Directors at the annual Corporate Member meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Votes cast in this election were independently tabulated and the results certified by the accounting firm of Ernst & Young, which also verified the ballots’ eligibility.

From a press release:

USGPRU Announces 2004 National Series Sponsors

ODENTON, MD.– Jan. 19, 2004 – The United States Grand Prix Riders Union (USGPRU) today announced sponsorship programs exceeding $70,000 for the 2004 season. Cash prizes, contingency money, merchandise, and merchandise certificates from industry sponsors are included in the sponsorship programs. The 2004 USGPRU National Series sponsors include 888-Fastlap, CCS/F-USA, GPC Moto, Motion Pro, Bridgestone, Dunlop, EBC Brakes, Hjelm Motorsports, Redline Cycle Imports, Silkolene, Speed Fiber and VP Fuel.

“Support for the USGPRU this year has been phenomenal, and I’m thrilled to have such strong backing and support from such well-established industry organizations,” said Stewart Aitken-Cade, president of the USGPRU. “Their interest demonstrates real commitment and support for ‘True GP’ racing in the U.S. and the development of new racers.”

Returning sponsors this year are Motion Pro with over $2400 in tools, VP Fuel with cash payouts through tenth place at each event. EBC Brakes, Silkolene, Hjelm Motorsports, and Bridgestone are all offering certificates or merchandise discounts.

New sponsors to the series include 888-Fastlap with contingency money for FM Helmets, Kobe Leathers and Extreme Tech Steering Dampers. Also new in 2004 are Speed Fiber, Dunlop, GPC Moto and Redline Cycle Imports.

Most of the sponsors are also including special bonus prizes at the Grand Finale.

About USGPRU
The USGPRU, a chartered member of the AMA, is the officially recognized Motorcycle Grand Prix Road Racing US National Championship series. The USGPRU emulates true World MotoGP racing experience and serves to attract young riders to gain experience in a professional environment and provide a path to world-class motorcycle racing. The USGPRU structures events with extended length grand prix racing exclusive to the GP machines, timed qualifying and strong contingency and sponsor support. For additional details, visit www.USGPRU.net.


Contact Information:

Stewart Aitken-Cade
President, USGPRU
Phone: 650-776-6225
Email: [email protected]

From a press release issued by WSMC:

2003 WILLOW SPRINGS WINNERS HONORED AT AWARDS BANQUET

Lancaster, CA. – Top motorcycle racers gathered at Lancaster’s Park Plaza Hotel Saturday as Willow Springs International Raceway honored the winners of the 2003 season of the Toyota Cup Series.

Winning top spot in overall track points and the #1 plate for the 2003 season was Jeff Stern with 603 points. Stern who is based in Las Vegas races a Sukuki under the Motul/EBC, banner. He earned his position by taking top honors in both the 750 Superbike class and Formula 40 series. Stern also finished second in Formula 1 and Open Superbike classes to secure his points advantage.

Second place honors went to Robbie Dowie with 538 points. Dowie, topped the Formula Two, 650 Superbike and 600 Modified Production classes and competed strongly in the Formula 1 series.

Third in the overall standings was Burbank’s Stoney Landers who managed to rack up 535 points throughout the season. Landers won the top spot in two classes – Open Mod Prod and Open Superbike, while finishing 3rd in Toyota Cup Formula 1 racing.

Finishing out the top ten overall were last year’s #1 plate holder Jeremy Toye, who was sidelined late in the season due to injuries, 600 Superstock champ, Chris Siglin in 5th, Tyler Paulson who topped the Open Superstock class finished 6th overall. Mark Watts who rode to the top spot in the 250 GP series and Formula 40 lightweights finished in 7th overall. Sam Carnibucci who enjoyed strong finishes in 600 Superstock, 600 Mod Prod and 650 Superbike classes earned 8th place honors while Clinton Whitehouse III who competed in eight separate classes racked up 413 points to earn the 9th slot. Corey Eaton of Placerville finished in 10th place overall with strong finishes in 750 SuperStock (1st), 750 Mod Prod (2nd), 750 Superbike (4th) and Formula 1 (4th).

Also leaving the banquet hall happy were Stephen Hewitt who won a Suzuki RM125 bike and Jack Pfeifer who was awarded a brand new Toyota Tundra pickup courtesy of Toyota Motorsports, sponsors of the yearlong Formula 1 series. A dozen other riders won free track time, merchandise and discounts from various sponsors.

Willow Springs Motorcycle Club sponsors motorcycle road racing in 18 separate classes including the no holds barred, Unlimited Formula One Series. This series leads up to the challenging Toyota 200, one of the most grueling road races around. The 200-mile contest commands more than just raw speed and power, it requires remarkable endurance and a skilled pit crew, elements unneeded in shorter races.

The rewards for success in the 200 can be substantial. With a $150,000 purse, the Toyota 200 is among racing’s most lucrative events. The winner will pocket $50,000 for his troubles, with second place earning a hefty $30,000 reward. Every qualifier is guaranteed at least $1,000 in prize money. This years running will be held October 17th at Willow Springs International Raceway in Rosamond.

Now in its second half-century as the “Fastest Road in the West” Willow Springs has over 100 motorcycle track days scheduled for 2004 in addition to numerous stock and sport car events, kart racing as well as vintage auto and cycle gatherings. The track is also a favorite with Hollywood and is often used as a location and training ground for movies, TV shows and commercials.

Round Two of the Toyota Cup will be held Valentine’s Day Weekend, February 13th-15th and will include special Street Rider’s Track Day on Friday and New Racer’s School on Saturday. For registration information call (661) 256-1234.

Spectators continue to enjoy one of Southern California’s best entertainment values at Willow Springs in 2004. Admission for an entire weekend of racing including pit passes and camping privileges is just $ 10/person. Kids eight and under are free. For ticket information, please call (661) 256-6666 or visit www.willowspringsraceway.com.

From a press release issued by KTM:

FIRST TIME VICTORY FOR A SPANISH RIDER!

KTM writes another page of Dakar History.

Dakar, January 18th, 2004

After twenty six years of hard fighting for the title, Nani Roma won the first “Dakar” for Spain. In so doing, he fulfilled a dream of all Spanish motorsport enthusiasts. It has been a long fight for him to reach the top spot on the podium in 2004.

Supported by a strong Spanish Repsol KTM Team, he rode a smart race avoiding mistakes and was always strictly focused to gain the overall victory.

Huge respect also goes to the second-placed rider and last year’s winner Richard Sainct of the French Gauloises KTM Team. After a serious arm injury, he was still able to fight for the win in the 26th Dakar. It was a tremendous performance, which also makes him a winner of this year´s Dakar.

His Gauloises KTM France team mate Cyril Despres earned third place. Winning several stages he showed all is potential. He will, undoubtedly, be one of the main contenders in the toughest race of the world in the future.

The best privateer of the 26th Dakar was Norwegian KTM rider Pal-Anders Ullevalseter. With a fifth place he put himself between the world´s top rally riders. It was an extraordinary performance for a private rider.

For the Team KTM Red Bull USA this year’s Dakar was a first attempt to compete with the world’s best rally riders. Although gaining experience was the primary goal for the American team, the riders proved their abilities with two top twenty rankings. They are sure to return to fight for the top places and further strengthen the sport.

The dramatic fight between the teams during this Dakar proved KTM´s decision for individual country teams to be a good one. Equipped with identical material and equal support this helped to make the race even more attractive. Therefore KTM will stick on this strategy in the future.

From a press release issued by Harley-Davidson:

HARLEY-DAVIDSON NAMED IN THE 100 BEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR

Harley-Davidson Motor Company ranks 79 in Fortune magazine’s list of “100 Best Companies to Work For.” Fortune selects companies for this list based on what employees say about their workplaces.

Some 46,526 randomly selected employees from 304 candidate companies are asked to complete an employee-opinion survey (the Great Place to Work Trust Index, an instrument created by the Great Place to Work Institute in San Francisco), employees may also submit written comments about their workplace. The candidate companies are also asked to complete a questionnaire detailing its people policies, practices and philosophies. Companies are evaluated based on the employee surveys, employee comments and candidate questionnaires.

The list of top companies appears in the February 16 issue of Fortune magazine and is also available online at http://www.fortune.com/.

From a press release issued by Team Hammer, Inc.:

Registration Now Open For 2004 Team Hammer Talent Search Presented by Alpinestars

Lake Elsinore, Calif. – Registration is now open for the 2004 Team Hammer Talent Search Presented by Alpinestars, a comprehensive career development program designed to help participants reach the highest level their talent will allow in motorcycle road racing. The program covers riding, bike set-up, sponsorship, dealing with the media and other major components of professional motorcycle road racing, and is open to serious Expert or Pro-licensed riders. Participants in the program will receive honest advice and evaluation, and straight answers to their questions, including The Big Question: “How do I get from where I am to where I want to be in motorcycle road racing?”

The program is being run by Team Hammer, Inc., which currently races primarily in AMA Pro competition as Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki; the team was founded in 1980 and has raced continuously since the start of the 1981 season, winning dozens of National Championships with various sanctioning bodies.

Two participants in the program will earn full rides for the 2004 Suzuki Cup Finals held in conjunction with the WERA Grand National Finals, including the use of one Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki racebike for the event weekend, the full-time attention of a team mechanic at the event, tires, entry fees and a set of brand new Alpinestars leathers, boots and gloves in team colors. The best finishing semi-finalist in the Suzuki Cup Finals will take home one of the team’s 2004 Suzuki GSX-R racebikes, and one of the two finalists will be considered for a 2005 season ride with the team.

The program includes monitoring of each rider’s results and progress during the season as well as two set-up seminar and instruction sessions, held in conjunction with Michelin test days at California Speedway February 18-19 and at Barber Motorsports Park March 18-19. Also included is participation in Team Hammer Practice days at Daytona February 25 and at Brainerd June 24 as well as participation in Michelin test days at Road America April 20-21, Pikes Peak May 5-6, Brainerd June 8-9, Mid-Ohio June 30-July 1, Road Atlanta August 2-3 and VIR August 11-12.

Evaluation and judging of program participants will be based on race results during the entire 2004 season; riding improvement seen during the season; and performance in designated special events, including AMA Sports races at Mid-Ohio July 19-22, and WERA National Challenge Series races at California Speedway June 11-13 and at Barber Motorsports Park September 24-26.

The 2003 semi-finalists were Greg Moore, 25, of Brookwood, Alabama and Chris Siglin, 22, of Clayton, California. As the best Talent Search finisher at the 2003 Suzuki Cup Finals, Siglin won the race-prepped 2003 Valvoline EMGO Suzuki GSX-R750 he rode at the event.

Registration forms and details are available online at Teamhammer.com, by calling (909) 245-6414 or via e-mail, [email protected]. Registration closes February 17, 2004.

From a press release issued by John Hopkins’ publicist:

Grand Prix Tours signs Hopkins

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – Grand Prix Tours is happy to announce a personal sponsorship agreement with Suzuki MotoGP rider John Hopkins. In 2004 Grand Prix Tours is organizing tours to MotoGP events in Jerez, Spain, Donington Park, England and Brno in the Czech Republic. Hopkins will make personal appearances at functions put on by Grand Prix Tours during these world championship events.

“We are thrilled to have this relationship with John,” said Grand Prix Tours president Barry Simpson. “One of the things people who attend our tours enjoy most is personally meeting the racers. John is a great young rider and already has a strong following among American MotoGP fans. We look forward to working with John this summer and wish him a successful season on the track.”

Hopkins, the 20-year-old two-time AMA road racing champion, is entering his third season in the ultimate road racing championship in motorcycling. He’s looking forward to getting more people enthused about MotoGP.

“I want Americans to get to know MotoGP,” Hopkins said. “I can’t think of a better way to become a follower of the sport than to come to watch the race live and meet the racers. Hopefully I’ll win some new fans along the way. With five Americans in the series next year there’s never been a better time for fans from the States to come to watch a MotoGP.”

Since 1983 Grand Prix Tours has offered enthusiast the ultimate experience with racing tours offering unrivaled service. The company’s expertise in producing sensational motor racing theme, dinner or cocktail parties in magnificent locations is without parallel. Meeting riders and race personalities gives guests a personal stake in the race. Our connections with hotels close to the track offer the best rooms and locations available. The knowledge of the event location allows for easy access to and from the track.

For additional information contact:

GRAND PRIX TOURS

1071 CAMELBACK STREET

NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660-3228


EMAIL: [email protected]

TEL (TOLL FREE): 1 800 400-1998

TEL (DIRECT): +1 949 717-3333

FAX: +1 949 717-3344


You can also visit us on the web at www.gptours.com.