Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

By John Ulrich

This is my personal opinion, as an individual.

On Monday, Roadracingworld.com posted an opinion piece by Trudy C. Ulrich, President and Publisher, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

And yeah, I’m married to her, and, yeah, she has a son, Chris, who races. I met her in a college copy-editing class, and Trudy has been involved in motorcycle road racing over the last 27 years, doing everything from driving a box van full of bikes and equipment (and toddlers) cross-country to racetracks, to scoring endurance races, to handling the books for a race team, to retrieving injured racers from hospitals. Over the years, she has heard plenty of complaints about how AMA Pro Racing does business, from racers she interacts with on a daily basis, and she is a card-carrying AMA member. Since it went into business 13 years ago, she has handled the business side of Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Last year, she handled the establishment of the Roadracing World Action Fund, Inc., a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation designed to promote the use of soft barriers at racetracks through educational programs, including demonstration deployments. During the process of getting non-profit, tax-exempt status for the Roadracing World Action Fund, she learned that a non-profit cannot transfer any of its assets to a for-profit company if doing so will give the for-profit company a competitive advantage.

She quickly formed the personal opinion that AMA non-profit had given AMA Pro Racing, its for-profit subsidiary, a competitive advantage in the race promotion and race sanctioning marketplace by transferring AMA non-profit assets to AMA Pro Racing, a company which has lost money every year during the decade it has existed, not only in the form of annual operating deficits, but also in the form of money paid to defend and ultimately settle a lawsuit related to AMA Pro Racing’s business activities. One estimate of the amount of money AMA Pro Racing has cost AMA non-profit since its founding is $8 million. In theory, the way AMA Pro Racing advocates tell the tale, AMA Pro Racing was supposed to make money to support AMA non-profit’s important activities, including government relations. In actual fact, the money AMA non-profit has spent shoring up AMA Pro Racing and paying for its legal miscues could have paid for a lot of government relations activities.

At any rate, since forming her opinion, Trudy has written three versions of the editorial which was finally published earlier this week. The first version was written about six months ago. The second was written about three weeks ago. And she finished the final version last week.

For months, I have been telling her that posting her editorial opinion would bring accusations that she was fronting for me, that I had written the piece and was hiding behind her byline. I have told her that because I currently hold an elected seat on the AMA non-profit Board of Directors, posting her editorial would bring criticism from AMA Pro Racing supporters on the AMA non-profit Board.

However, Roadracingworld.com frequently posts opinion pieces written by not only staff members but also readers. Ultimately, she has as much right to express her opinion on a website she owns as anybody does. And so the piece was posted.

As I predicted, the criticism has been swift in coming. Proponents of AMA Pro Racing have accused me of writing Trudy’s editorial, and of hiding behind her byline. They have called her personal opinion lies, and have accused me of being a liar. They have accused me of seeking (how, I do not know) personal profit by running Trudy’s editorial.

Let me point out right here that nobody who is seeking personal profit would spend the kind of time and money I have—we have—on funding the majority of the inflatable soft barriers currently in use at road races in this country.

And let me say that while I did not write Trudy’s editorial, and while I do not personally agree with everything she says in that editorial, I do agree with about 90 percent of it. I think she makes very valid points, and I think that AMA Pro Racing is a freewheeling cancer that continues to eat away at AMA non-profit’s money, reputation and good will. AMA Pro Racing operations—the stuff AMA members encounter at the races and when trying to deal with headquarters staff—are a disgrace. The lack of accountability—from top to bottom—is appalling. In its interactions with what its advocates like to call “stakeholders,” AMA Pro Racing operates as a continuing, non-stop drama, with the biggest recent example involving renewal negotiations with AMA National Motocross Promoters.

And as seen again in this case, AMA Pro Racing’s instant, predictable reaction to any criticism is, A. It’s a lie; B. You can’t believe (insert name of critic here), he’s just seeking personal gain; C. It never happened; D. We didn’t do it.

Officiating is inconsistent, with a few examples following: Billy Joe Bob (a made-up name representing the majority of non-factory riders in the paddock) gets fined $100 for running down pit lane at 52 mph instead of 50 mph (and never mind that the radar speed display placed at the head of pit lane to allow riders to judge their speed often does not pick up and display the speed of approaching bikes), while Miguel Duhamel gets fined nothing for throwing rocks on an active racetrack. Chuck Chounaird gets completely thrown out of an AMA National for having valves that were cleaned using Scotchbrite; factory riders get fined money and points but keep their finishing position for such offenses as illegal cylinder head machining; non-stock, low-pressure oil pumps; and being underweight. Half the 250cc Grand Prix field was sent home for not getting within 112% of pole the first time timed qualifying was used for the class—never mind that most of practice had been rained out—at Fontana last year, with AMA Pro Racing taking the position that allowing riders who had not properly qualified, to race, presented a liability problem. Yet this year at Barber, riders who failed to make the cut in qualifying were allowed to race, with no explanation of what happened to that liability problem. Which way is it?

The claim that “stakeholders” will be allowed to comment on new rules is a sham; facing complaints that they recently enacted a new rule on short notice without allowing any comment, AMA Pro Racing first claimed that they didn’t have to allow comment because it wasn’t a rule, it was a regulation (look up those two words in a dictionary), then, facing the obvious complaint that a rule is a regulation and vice versa, claimed that they didn’t have to allow comment on operational rules, only on technical rules. Which isn’t what they said when they announced their new policy of allowing comment on proposed new rules.

Almost a year ago, the Board of Directors of AMA non-profit, acting as the shareholders of AMA Pro Racing, ordered AMA Pro Racing to improve operations by hiring a new operations chief by the end of the first quarter of 2003. We’re now in the fourth quarter, and the same guys are making the same mess of operations.

There have been some improvements. Timing and scoring is less screwed up—because the timing and scoring crew shows up earlier, an idea it took two years to get AMA Pro Racing to accept–and the system is usually working when official practice starts, and we just won’t talk about the guys who for some reason weren’t timed in qualifying sessions at a recent race.

But overall, AMA Pro Racing is far from what it should be, and it remains a drain on AMA non-profit in terms of money, prestige, reputation and staff time. It will continue to be a drain on AMA non-profit as long as it is managed the way it is managed now, and as long as its core group of entrenched bureaucrats remains in place, insulated and protected by a separate AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors that is not accountable to AMA members.

That’s what I think, and I’m not hiding my opinion.



See related post:

10/13/2003 Opinion: Time To End Misappropriation Of AMA Non-profit Assets by Dissolving AMA Pro Racing, Firing Everybody, And Starting Over

From a press release:

Motorsports Safety LLC / Fastrack Riders Announce Online WERA West Coast Survey

San Juan Capistrano, CA — Motorsports Safety LLC, the parent company of Fastrack Riders Association, announces a web-based survey to determine the amount of interest in a WERA West Coast Racing Series.

David Pyles, President of Motorsports Safety LLC says, “It’s no secret that we have had discussions with WERA, but unlike last year where we got the cart before the horse in announcing a deal with AFM North, we are going to do our homework and verify if there truly is enough interest in having a WERA West Coast Series. Last year, we had a deal worked out with AFM North, and then determined the cost of scheduling most of our events at California Speedway was beyond the average racer’s budget. So in the end, the deal fell through.”

Larry Pointer, Director of Operations for Motorsports Safety LLC, states, “This survey is directed towards club racers on the West Coast that might be interested in a national racing series like WERA. If you are a club racer or seriously considering becoming one, then by all means go to the site and fill out the survey.”

The survey will be up for only two weeks, so be sure to take the survey sooner than later. “If we get a very positive response, we will go forward. If not, we will revisit the opportunity for next year.” David Pyles concludes.

The survey is located at http://www.werawest.com

From a press release issued by Team Oliver Yamaha:

Rich Oliver’s Mystery School sponsored Rich Oliver and mechanic Robert Ward are headed south to the beautiful Willow Springs International Motorsport Park in Rosamond Ca. The “fastest road in the west” will be home this weekend to the Roadracingworld.com 250/50, and also the Toyota 200 mile unlimited event.

Rich comments, “Right away I could tell this race was quite different, as the management of Willow Springs actually called me to invite us down to race. They arranged our parking and have lots of media set up to interview us when we get there. We are even going to be a part of the video production covering both races. At least we are actually wanted there, unlike at the AMA events! Also, the purse for each race is the highest amount we have seen all year.”

Rich knows the competition for the Roadracingworld.com 250/50 race will be tough. He had these thoughts, “The huge purse will bring out everyone who rides these Grand Prix machines well. They could come from all over the country and even overseas. It’s really the last chance this season to professionally race the bikes, and to go for the highest purse on the super challenging Willow 9 turn track. It should be tight.”

As far as the Toyota 200 mile event goes, Rich thinks that the Yamaha TZ 250 that the team has used all year with such domination will be on the edge of reliability. “We have so much power pumping through that motor now, that I’m not sure it will hold together for the whole 200 miles. It’s up close to 100 horsepower and that’s quite a bit above stock. It will be a miracle if it holds for the complete race, I think the first thing to go will be the wrist pins. They could snap and cause a huge explosion, but at least I won’t cover the track with oil like a four stroke would! We don’t have quick wheel change equipment so our pit stops will be a little slow, but we are easy on tires, so we may not have to stop as often. I think we can run pretty good pace for as long as my little engine pulls me along. I just don’t know what to expect, but that’s not going to stop us from giving each race everything we’ve got. That’s what we always do.”

From a press release:

Vincent Haskovec Set To Race Willow Springs’ Toyota 200

Popular Czech rider finished on podium there last year; looking to improve in ’03

FLORENCE, Ky., (October 15, 2003) – Fresh off being one of two riders invited for a successful AMA Superbike test session at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Formula One road course, Vincent Haskovec will roll out his own Suzuki GSXR 1000 this weekend at Willow Springs International Motorsports Park for the annual Toyota 200, part of the WSMC Toyota Cup Road Race Series weekend at the challenging Southern California track.

Haskovec enjoyed a successful AMA/Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship campaign this summer, finishing on the overall podium in the Superstock class and in the top ten overall in the premier Superbike class. He returns to the Toyota 200 this year as a defending overall podium finisher (3rd) and is looking forward to improving upon his efforts of last year.

“Willow Springs is special to me in that it’s the first track I ever raced when I came here from Czechoslovakia,” said Haskovec. “It’s a fast track with good flow and I’m very comfortable racing there. I look forward to getting back on a bike and racing this weekend.”

Haskovec also added that the Toyota 200 is “One of the most difficult races in the world.”

“In the afternoon the wind blows so severely that it becomes difficult to do 80 laps,” he said. “So not only does the race require intense mental focus, it also takes an extreme toll on your body. Strength and endurance will be key if I hope to make it back on the podium this year, hopefully on the top.”

Action gets underway at Willow Springs on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 & 18, with qualifiers for the Toyota 200. Sunday’s (Oct. 19) races will feature the RoadracingWorld.com 250 Grand Prix, followed by the Toyota 200. For more information on the race weekend check out willowspringsraceway.com.

From a press release issued by Daytona International Speedway:

Classic Cycle Club Offers The Ultimate Fall Cycle Scene Hospitality Experience

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — If you want to attend the Oct. 16-19 Fall Cycle Scene in style, there’s no better way than through the Classic Cycle Club.

The Classic Cycle Club, the exclusive fan hospitality package for Fall Cycle Scene, will be available on Oct. 18-19 and offers a guest a private suite in the Winston Tower that provides the perfect view of all of the championship motorcycle racing.

Also included in the Classic Cycle Club is a complimentary event souvenir pin, preferred parking (first come, first parked basis), unlimited soda and water, four beer tickets per day, light continental breakfast and picnic style lunch buffet.

The Classic Cycle Club costs $50 on Saturday, Oct. 18 and $70 on Sunday, Oct. 19 but is also available as a two-day package for $115. Availability in the Classic Cycle Club is limited. For more information, contact the Speedway ticket office at (386) 253-RACE.

From a press release issued by Southern California Ducati:

Grand Opening of Southern California Ducati in Brea, CA.

Saturday, November 15th, 2003

Already awarded by Ducati North America as the “Best New Ducati Dealer In The U.S.,” Southern California Ducati is destined to be one of the leading Ducati Dealers in the country. Our Grand Opening celebration will include:

Demo Rides

Discounts on Accessories

Raffle and Door prizes

Food and Drink

Vendors

Service Specials

Factory Representatives

Music


Event hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

From a press release issued by Fuchs Kawasaki:

MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2003
ROUND 15 – AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX
15TH OCTOBER 2003 – MOTOGP RACE RESULT

HOME AT LAST FOR FUCHS KAWASAKI RIDERS

After ten months of testing and racing across five continents, Fuchs Kawasaki riders Garry McCoy and Andrew Pitt finally touchdown at home for the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island this Sunday.

Phillip Island is expected to bring a welcome relief from the heat and humidity of last weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix, where Pitt finished just outside the World Championship points. Track knowledge and cooler conditions are expected to provide a platform for both Kawasaki riders to aim for a points scoring finish in their home Grand Prix.

The pre-race preparations will be more intense than usual, with Pitt and McCoy engaged in a series of media and corporate appearances that are all part of the demands of modern MotoGP competition, especially racing at home for a high profile factory team.

But both Australians know what to expect from previous international success. Pitt was Supersport World Champion in 2001 with Kawasaki, while McCoy has five career Grand Prix victories to his credit.

And the Phillip Island visit is not just a home race for the riders. The Kawasaki race team has a solid representation of Australian technicians in the garage, all of whom will also enjoy the opportunity of racing in familiar surroundings.

As the ambitious and constantly evolving Kawasaki Ninja ZX-RR project enters its second year of GP racing there is no lack of motivation to aim for the best possible result at Phillip Island with the support of family, friends and home fans alike.

The Phillip Island circuit, with its amphitheatre style seaside location, is a spectacular race track setting. The undulating layout combines the challenging test of a high speed straight, a sequence of long and fast curves and two hairpin corners that provide the ultimate test of braking skills.

Andrew Pitt
“I just love racing at Phillip Island; it’s almost like being on holidays with the beach and staying in Cowes. Plus a bunch my mates will be there for the race so it will be good to catch up with everyone. I think most riders enjoy racing here and, like Assen, it is one of the great tracks on the calendar. Phillip Island has always been a tough test on tyres but I’m sure the Dunlop guys are ready for that; they’ve made some good progress this season and the cooler weather should work in our favour. The speed of the ZX-RR will be strong on the first half of the circuit, which is really fast, but the back section, up past the hay shed to Lukey Heights, could be hard work for us.”

Garry McCoy
“It’s always exciting racing at the Island with a big crowd, but it’s also a lot of extra work with the media, team and sponsorship schedule; everyone wants some of your time. I would like qualify on the front row again like last year, but that will depend on how the ZX-RR and our tyres shape up with the track and hopefully cooler weather. The Island is fast and the Kawasaki is not short of power, but the long, high speed corners make it hard for us to get on the throttle early; I reckon we’ll be hanging off the bike through the fast stuff out the back.”

Harald Eckl – Team Manager
“All season our goal has been to develop the Ninja ZX-RR for a top performance at Phillip Island, and our early aim was the podium because Garry and Andrew know this track very well. Unfortunately, at this stage of our new MotoGP programme, we have not reached the point of being able to provide our riders with a bike that will allow them to really show their home fans what they are capable of and a podium position is out of reach in our first season. But as always, Andrew and Garry will be highly motivated and again we are expecting strong support from our tyre partners Dunlop, who have been working hard on the special demands of Phillip Island.”



More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX – PREVEW
Phillip Island, October 17/18/19

TROY’S HOMECOMING FOR DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM

Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss returns to Australia this weekend to contest his first race on home tarmac in 18 months. The hugely popular Aussie, currently fifth overall and top rookie, is joined by team-mate Loris Capirossi, the man who clinched the squad’s first MotoGP victory at June’s Marlboro Catalan GP.

The Ducati Marlboro Team has played a starring role in the 2003 MotoGP World Championship, racking up enough points to put Ducati second in the Constructors’ World Championship standings. Both Bayliss and Capirossi will be aiming for more podium finishes on the Island to further strengthen the factory’s stunning rookie MotoGP campaign.

Sunday’s Australian GP concludes a gruelling run of three back-to-back ‘flyaway’ races which has taken the MotoGP circus from Motegi in Japan to Sepang in Malaysia and to Phillip Island in the space of just three weekends. After this event teams return to Europe for the season finale, the Marlboro Valencia GP, in Spain on November 2.


DUCATI MARLBORO TEAM ALL SET FOR ISLAND RACE
The Ducati Marlboro Team contests its first Australian MotoGP event this weekend, ten months after the squad’s Desmosedici machine underwent its first full tests at Phillip Island. Riders Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss were bang on the pace in that outing but much has changed since then – the Desmosedici has been substantially developed and the MotoGP pace has got faster and faster.

“We tested at Phillip Island last December, it was our first real track test of the circuit when we did our first race simulations with Loris and Troy,” says Ducati Marlboro Team technical director Corrado Cecchinelli. “Our lap times were very fast, though we were using 2003 Michelins compared to the 2002 tyres that riders used during last year’s Australian GP, so it was difficult to draw direct comparisons. Anyway, we’re confident that we can run a good pace at this track.

“The circuit is unusual – it’s a very flowing, high-speed track with only one area of heavy, prolonged braking, at Honda corner. Most of all it’s very hard on the left side of the rear tyre. The last double left-hander generates a huge amount of heat in the tyre because the bike is at the same lean angle for a long time, with full throttle in fourth gear.

“You need a very stable bike for this track, especially if it’s windy. The wind can be worst on the start-finish straight – as the riders pass the end of the pit wall they encounter strong side winds. You can do a few things to make life easier for the rider in such conditions: maximise stability, reduce the fairing’s surface area by drilling holes in it and lowering the bike. But the number one thing is a good, stable set-up. And, of course, you have to hope that no seagulls get in the way!”

Before competing on the Island, Capirossi and Bayliss take part in a street parade, organised by fuel and lubricant partners Shell Advance, in nearby Melbourne on Wednesday.

“Both our guys are looking forward to racing at Phillip Island – the fans are so appreciative of our sport in Australia,” adds Ducati Marlboro Team director Livio Suppo. “We therefore go into the penultimate race of our first MotoGP campaign in positive mood. Troy can’t wait to race in Australia again, it’s been a long time. He’s got some great memories of this track, and Loris too, he won his first World Championship here in 1990.”


CAPIROSSI AIMS FOR ANOTHER PODIUM FINISH
Loris Capirossi comes to Phillip Island aiming for another high-scoring finish on his Ducati Marlboro Team Desmosedici. The hard-riding Italian has already achieved some remarkable results on the awesomely powerful V4, including the bike’s historic first win, four podiums and ten front-row starts. Capirossi has enjoyed plenty of success in Australia – he won the 1996 500 GP at Eastern Creek and the 1990 and 1991 125 GPs at Phillip Island.

“I like Phillip Island so much, but it’s a difficult track, especially for tyres,” says Capirossi. “But we did a race simulation during our tests at Phillip Island and the Michelins worked well. We also tried many different chassis and engine settings to get less wheelspin, and I think we worked in a good direction. Everyone in the team is working so hard to make the bike better. This is our first year but I think we can be very happy with what we’ve achieved so far. And next year should be even better because we’ll have full track data from which to work.”

Capirossi always looks forward to returning to Phillip Island, for it was here that he secured his first World Championship way back in 1990. That year he won the 125 crown at his first attempt at the age of 17 years old, and he’s still the youngest winner of a World Championship. The win captured the hearts of local Australians – one Cowes pizzeria even created the Capirossi pizza in celebration of the teenager’s triumph! “A long time ago, but it’s still a sweet memory,” he smiles.


BAYLISS RETURNS TO HAPPY HUNTING GROUND
Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss has high hopes for the 2003 Australian GP. He rode the most crucial races of his career on the Island – the 1997 Australian Superbike round and the ’97 250 GP – which launched his international career. Four years later Bayliss was World Superbike champion and last year he won both races at the Island round of the series. This weekend he rides his first MotoGP race at the track.

“Phillip Island will be the busiest race of the year for me,” says Bayliss. “My plan had been to head back to my home town for a few days after Malaysia, but there’s been too much going on, I’ve had to do a fair bit of press and PR work. I like the atmosphere and I like the track because I like tracks where the racing tends to be close. It’s a place I do well at. It was one of the first tracks where we tested the Desmosedici and the tests went okay, so this weekend should be good for us. I’ll have a lot of friends and fans down there, they’ll make sure I pull my finger out, and I’ll be aiming for the podium.”

Bayliss’ wife Kim will be absent this weekend. She’s at home in Monaco looking after the couple’s third child – Ollie, born on the weekend of last month’s Rio GP – with help from her mum and aunt. “I always look forward to Phillip Island so much,” says Kim. “It’s our only chance during the season to catch up with old mates, but it looks like I’ll be missing it this year.”


THE TRACK
The Phillip Island circuit is the second fastest currently used for motorcycle GP racing (after Dutch GP track Assen, another rider favourite) and also demands much of machines and tyres. Its only downside is the area’s unsettled early spring weather that can whip up dangerously strong winds off the nearby Bass Strait.

There are three essentials for a good result at the Victorian state venue: guts, determination and a sweet-handling motorcycle. Most riders count the track as one of their favourites because unlike many modern circuits that have been built to contain the flight of F1 cars, the Island is dominated by high-speed curves that test rider skill and daring to the limit.

Situated 130 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, the island hosted its first motorcycle races way back in the 1920s, when riders competed over a dusty 12-mile street circuit, and the only access to the island was by boat! The circuit fell into disrepair but was redeveloped in the late eighties and hosted Australia’s first bike GP in 1989. Since then the circuit has been renowned for creating ultra-close racing action.



More, from a press release issued by Pramac Honda:

PRAMAC RACING PREVIEW

MotoGP – Round 15
Phillip Island (Australia)
17/18/19 October 2003

PENULTIMATE ROUND OF 2003 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP: PHILLIP ISLAND (AUSTRALIA)

Ending the long tour away from Europe before the “Grand Finale” in Valencia, the Phillip Island Grand Prix is still of great interest for the championship standings, even though the world title has already been assigned in the premier class. Although Rossi has already won his fifth world title, there are still two races to go and the challenge for the vice-championship is still open.

Sete Gibernau and Massimiliano Biaggi will be battling it out in the final rush. Gibernau, currently in second place with 244 points and Biaggi, just behind with 215, are separated by only 29 points – but there are still 50 to be won. The final dash could bring some real excitement.

South of Melbourne, on Phillip Island, the Australian track that hosts the penultimate round of the season is a circuit of rare beauty. Just by the sea, it is surrounded by lawns and has some very special technical characteristics: fast sweeping curves, slight inclinations and tight corners that are perfect for overtaking while braking. Riders need to watch out for the weather, however, for it can be very windy and often rainy, and this is the ideal place for large seagulls – that have been hit more than once by riders when racing or practising.

The circuit.
Length: 4,448 metres
7 left-handers
5 right-handers –

longest straight: 900 metres
Maximum width: 13 metres
built in 1956 – modified in 1988

2002 winners. 125 class: Poggiali (RSM) Gilera – 250 Class: Melandri (ITA)
Aprilia – MotoGP Class: Rossi (ITA) Honda.

Circuit records – 125: 1’37.983, Pedrosa 2002 – 250: 1’33.556, Rossi, 1999 –
MotoGP: 1’32.233, Rossi, 2002.

MAX BIAGGI: NINTH PODIUM OF THE SEASON

CAMEL PRAMAC PONS TEAM SECOND IN TEAM RATINGS.

On the podium in 9 races out of 14, with two victories. This is the positive outcome of Massimiliano Biaggi’s 2003 season two rounds from the end. Currently third in the ratings, the four-times world champion still has second place, and the title of vice-champion, in his sights.

The gap separating him from today’s number two, Sete Gibernau, is now 29 points, but the 50 remaining to be won mean that second place is still within Max’s grasp. Biaggi’s podium placing and Tohru Ukawa’s seventh position gave the Camel Pramac Pons Team another 25 points, firmly endorsing its second place in the special team ratings. A prestigious position it is expected to maintain through to the end of the championship.

MAKOTO TAMADA: THE WILL TO WIN
Rear tyre too soft for the Pramac Honda Team’s Japanese rider in the Sepang race – and the heat did the rest. The fact is that, after two spectacular qualifying sessions and his start from the front row with third-quickest time, Makoto Tamada lost all hope of confirming his winning streak and arrived tenth in the Malaysia race. An honourable position, but one that does not reflect the full potential that Makoto is able to express in this stage of the championship.

So the desire for a comeback is strong and the conditions are ripe for Tamada to raise his sights in the last two races. He rode on both circuits, Phillip Island and Valencia, during the winter tests and, particularly here in Australia, Bridgestone achieved brilliant results last year.

The main objective is therefore to perfect the set-up of Makoto’s RC211V right at the beginning of the sessions and then work out the best choice of tyre so as to put the Japanese rider in the ideal conditions for him to aim for the top. Tamada is now 11th in the standings, 16 points from Alexander Barros who is 10th. So Makoto’s aim could be to beat the Brazilian and end the season in tenth place.



More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing:

HONDA RACING INFORMATION
Australian Grand Prix, Phillip Island
October 17, 18, 19

ROSSI MOVES TO MILK MOMENTUM OF MAGICAL TITLE SEASON

Three times MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Repsol Honda RC211V) heads to Phillip Island determined to make the most of a season where he has had to work harder than ever to retain his status as the number one rider in the world. But his erstwhile rivals Sete Gibernau (Telefonica Movistar Honda RC211V) and Max Biaggi (Camel Pramac Pons RC211V) still have second place to fight for and will, as ever, make life less than easy for the champ.

MotoGP makes the last of three ‘flyaway’ temporary encampments at Phillip Island, 130km south east of Melbourne in Australia this weekend for the penultimate race of the 16 Grands Prix season. This is the third of three back-to-back races that test teams to the maximum in terms of human endurance and logistical expertise.

Rossi has cemented his reputation as one the all-time greats with his third consecutive World Championship and the Repsol Honda Team has clinched the new Team Championship. Honda has also wrapped up the Manufacturers title. But the competitive edge remains as sharp as ever.

Phillip Island is a place where talent shines and riders know that to be fast at this bleak but beautiful and far-flung environment requires the utmost commitment – titles have been won and lost here. Part of that is due to the race calendar and accumulated points. Much else is due to the demanding nature of the track.

The 4.488km track hosted the first Australian motorcycle Grand Prix in 1989 and the contests have rarely been less than spectacular. Much of that is down to the layout of the track. Another element is the fulsome participation of the committed crowd. The end of season atmosphere cannot be discounted either.

But as well as the dispute for the runner-up honours in the premier class much is at stake in the smaller categories too. The 250 title is still up for grabs and notwithstanding Daniel Pedrosa (Telefonica Movistar Junior Team RS125R) having already lifted the World 125cc Championship, that class will continue to provide racing of the highest calibre whenever the gantry lights go green.

But, as ever, it’s the technicalities of the tarmac and the riders’ approaches to the event that are of primary importance.

“It’s sometimes difficult to restart after such a great weekend,” says Rossi. “But I love Phillip Island. I’ve had great experiences there and we’ll try for another good result. The bike works so well at the moment and we’ll just try to have some fun for the rest of the season. I want to get on the podium for every race this season and that is my motivation now we’ve won the title and the team Championship.”

But the track is a tough one and tyre wear is a huge issue. The two left-hand turns onto the main straight are punishing on rubber and machine set-up is directed as conserving tyres. But there are so many fast changes of direction on this circuit and sustained periods of high lean angle that riders have to prepare for late laps when grip has all but evaporated.

Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC211V) is prepared. “When I tested here at the start of the year I really enjoyed it,” said the American rookie. “The track, the atmosphere, the ocean in the background makes it special. The layout is great and the big left-handers are real fun. I want to finish my first MotoGP season on a high and I just want to up the momentum.”

Sete Gibernau has it all to ride for having proved to be Rossi’s main rival this season. “I’ve got two races left to win although the title is over,” said the Spaniard. “And I’ll give it my best shot as always. I’ll have the support of a great team behind me like I’ve had all season and like most riders I relish the challenge of this track.”

Max Biaggi too is geared to go. “I want to finish my season well,” said the Roman Rossi rival. “I’ll try to get some revenge there, although he (Rossi) is a great rider and has had a top-level season. The track is one of my favourites although I won’t leave from Malaysia for a while because I’ve heard it’s quite freezing there. I’ll arrive on Wednesday morning!”

Tohru Ukawa (Camel Pramac Pons RC211V) is ready too. “When you test there in winter the weather is always good, but when you race there it’s windy and cold,” he said. “This year we haven’t tested there, but we still have an idea what to expect. Last year I was third on the podium, and I’ll be trying to better that this year. Tyre choice is always crucial here, because they get a really hard time.”

For Makoto Tamada (Pramac Honda RC211V) Phillip Island represents a chance to continue the progress the Japanese rookie has made this year. “Last year Jeremy McWilliams got pole, so we know we have capability for good lap times here,” he said. “And we’ll be hoping for a repeat result in qualifying – and in the race.”

In the 250 class Roberto Rolfo (Fortuna Honda RS250RW) will continue his determined bid to snatch the 250 crown with his resolute and consistent style. “I like the Phillip Island track very much,” he said. “The circuit has some fast sections where you need a fast engine but the corners there will allow me to exploit the handling qualities of my Fortuna Honda. The Championship is not over and I am still in there fighting. Everything is possible until the very last chance has gone.”

Honda hotshot Sebastian Porto (Telefonica Movistar Junior Team RS250RW) will give it everything too. “Phillip Island I like very much, in fact it’s one of my favourite circuits,” said the Argentine rider. “The track has everything, it’s a real rider’s circuit and I have done well there in the past. I don’t have a favourite section – I like every aspect of the place. My bike will work well there, even if I do need a little more power. I also like Australia very much and that helps a lot.”

Dani Pedrosa, the new 125cc World Champion from the Telefonica Movistar Honda Junior Team is relaxed and raring to go. “Phillip Island is a good track, but it’s very difficult for a 125,” he said. “The gearing is very difficult to get right because of the wind. It helps you going in one direction but hurts you going the other way. Nobody really has an advantage at Phillip Island because so much of the track is in fifth and sixth gear, full open on the gas running up to the last corner and down the front straight, and also at the back of the circuit. Slipstreaming is very, very important. The only problem is the wind – it’s a little dangerous sometimes, very much so when it comes from the side. The races are always really good for the fans and television because they are always close.”

Thomas Luthi (Elit Grand Prix Honda RS125R) is keen to build on a fine first full season of top level competition. “Phillip Island is not an easy track for me,” said the Swiss teenager. “Last year was not so bad for me and I enjoyed racing there but the wind was a big problem. I’m very light and I got caught you by the wind and crashed three times! Slipstreaming is very important at that track and I have to improve the way I use slipstreaming. My bike is really working well now, the engine is good and that’s important at Phillip Island. I’m looking forward to the race.”

Andrea Dovisioso (Team Scot Honda RS125R) will be going all-out out to secure a high finish in the points table. The Italian currently lies fourth. “All Grand Prix riders like racing at Phillip Island and for sure I have a good feeling when I’m there,” he said. “If everything is okay with the bike I’m sure I can finish in the top five. The only problem we face is with the wind but it’s the same for everybody.”

From a press release issued by Harley-Davidson:

HARLEY-DAVIDSON REPORTS RECORD Third QUARTER Earnings

Milwaukee, Wis., October 15, 2003 — Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record earnings for its third quarter ended September 28, 2003. Third quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were 62 cents, a 14.8 percent increase compared with last year’s 54 cents. Revenue for the quarter was $1.134 billion, which compares to $1.135 billion in the year-ago quarter.

“I am pleased to report that we delivered our third quarter shipment target for Harley-Davidson® motorcycles while starting up our new factory for Softail® motorcycles in York, Pennsylvania,” said Jeffrey L. Bleustein, chairman and chief executive officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. “Achieving total revenues that equaled last year’s record third quarter performance was also a significant accomplishment since last year’s quarter benefited from the extraordinary impact of the introduction of our 100th Anniversary products.” Revenue growth in the third quarter of 2002 was 28.4 percent for motorcycles, 32.3 percent for Parts & Accessories (P&A) and 88.5 percent for General Merchandise. “During this year’s third quarter, we also successfully began production of our new 2004 line of motorcycles, including a completely redesigned Sportster® family,” said Bleustein.

“Strong demand continued throughout the third quarter as our dealer network sold Harley-Davidson motorcycles in record numbers. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the U.S. grew over 27 percent compared with last year’s third quarter and resulted in a decline in dealer inventories of nearly 12,000 units during the quarter,” added Bleustein.

Continued strong demand for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and planned increases in production capacity support the Company’s new 2003 target of 291,000 units and a 2004 target of 317,000 units. The 2004 target represents an 8.9 percent increase over the 2003 target.

Motorcycles and Related Products Segment – Third Quarter Results

Third quarter revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $844.3 million, an increase of 1.4 percent over last year. Worldwide shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the third quarter totaled 67,458 units, in line with the Company’s previously announced target of 67,500. This compares to last year’s third quarter shipments of 67,474 motorcycles.

Third quarter revenue from P&A, which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $207.8 million. This is a 4.3 percent increase, or $8.5 million more than the year-ago quarter.

Third quarter revenue from General Merchandise, which consists of MotorClothes* apparel and collectibles, totaled $60.5 million, down 27.2 percent over the same period last year.

Both P&A and General Merchandise revenue benefited from strong sales of 100th Anniversary products in 2002. Excluding the $46 million of revenue from 100th Anniversary products, the P&A growth rate is 15.8 percent and the General Merchandise growth rate is 3.5 percent over 2002’s third quarter.

For the longer term, the Company expects the growth rate for P&A revenues to be slightly higher than Harley-Davidson’s motorcycle unit growth rate, and the General Merchandise growth rate is expected to be lower than the motorcycle unit growth rate.

Third quarter gross margin improved from 34.9 percent of revenue in 2002 to 35.6 percent in 2003. Gross margin was impacted primarily by foreign currency exchange rates. Third quarter operating margin of 21.3 percent increased from 19.6 percent in 2002. This increase was driven primarily by higher gross margin and the timing of operating expenses in 2002 and 2003.

Motorcycle Retail Data – Nine Month Results
Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the United States were up 12.9 percent for the period January through September 2003 when compared to the same period last year. Harley-Davidson retail sales in Europe and Japan were up 9.5 and 12.6 percent, respectively, when compared with 2002. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles have outpaced the heavyweight motorcycle industry in the U.S., Europe and Japan as shown in the accompanying table.

Financial Services Segment
Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. (HDFS) reported third quarter operating income of $46.2 million, up 55.7 percent from $29.7 million in the year-ago quarter. The segment’s performance was driven by continued strong marketplace acceptance of its finance and insurance products as well as a favorable interest rate environment.

The Company’s third quarter securitization of $475 million of motorcycle retail loans resulted in a gain of $22.2 million that compares to a securitization of $390 million and a gain of $17.0 million during the third quarter of 2002. The gain as a percentage of loans securitized increased from 4.36 percent in the third quarter of 2002 to 4.67 percent in the third quarter of 2003, as HDFS continued to benefit in this low interest rate environment.

Annualized credit losses on a managed portfolio basis increased slightly in the first nine months of the year from 0.68 percent in 2002 to 0.73 percent in 2003.

The Company is raising its expectation for HDFS’s operating income for 2003 to be approximately 55 percent higher than in 2002. Over the long term, the Company expects the HDFS growth rate to be slightly higher than the Company’s motorcycle unit growth rate.

Cash Flow – Nine Month Results
Operations generated cash of $862.6 million. The Company invested $124.4 million in capital expenditures, declared dividends of $34.9 million and repurchased 750,000 shares valued at $30.6 million.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. – Nine Month Results
For the nine month period, revenue totaled $3.466 billion, a 13.1 percent increase over the year-ago period. Diluted earnings per share were $1.90, an increase of 34.8 percent compared to the same period last year.

Through the first nine months of this year, shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were 214,091, an 8.3 percent increase over last year’s 197,683. Harley-Davidson motorcycle revenue was $2.676 billion, a 14.3 percent increase over $2.341 billion in revenue in 2002. P&A revenue totaled $571.8 million, a 14.5 percent increase over last year’s $499.3 million. General Merchandise revenue totaled $160.7 million, a 9.1 percent decrease compared with $176.7 million during the same period in 2002.

For the first nine months, HDFS operating income was $134.0 million, a $55.2 million increase over last year’s first nine months.