Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda, 1:51.043
2. Sete Gibernau, Honda, 1:51.626
3. Max Biaggi, Honda, 1:52.166
4. Loris Capirossi, Ducati, 1:52.235
5. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha, 1:52.388
6. Tohru Ukawa, Honda, 1:52.696
7. Carlos Checa, Yamaha, 1:52.796
8. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha, 1:52.826
9. Makoto Tamada, Honda, 1:52.937
10. Alex Barros, Yamaha, 1:53.057
11. John Hopkins, Suzuki, 1:53.280
12. Marco Melandri, Yamaha, 1:53.500
13. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, 1:53.532
14. Colin Edwards, Aprilia, 1:53.605
15. Nicky Hayden, Honda, 1:53.627
16. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki, 1:53.809
17. Noriyuki Haga, Aprilia, 1:54.442
18. Garry McCoy, Kawasaki, 1:54.613
19. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton, 1:54.813
20. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton, 1:54.919
21. Andrew Pitt, Kawasaki, 1:55.209
22. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, 1:55.844
23. David De Gea, Harris WCM, 1:56.218
24. Chris Burns, Harris WCM, 1:57.237

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday’s Provisional MotoGP Qualifying Results:

1. Max Biaggi, Honda, 1:49.876
2. Loris Capirossi, Ducati, 1:50.212
3. Sete Gibernau, Honda, 1:50.234
4. Valentino Rossi, Honda, 1:50.322
5. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha, 1:50.844
6. Alex Barros, Yamaha, 1:50.876
7. Makoto Tamada, Honda, 1:50.957
8. Tohru Ukawa, Honda, 1:51.240
9. Troy Bayliss, Ducati, 1:51.254
10. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha, 1:51.385
11. Garry McCoy, Kawasaki, 1:51.395
12. Nicky Hayden, Honda, 1:51.420
13. John Hopkins, Suzuki, 1:51.802
14. Noriyuki Haga, Aprilia, 1:51.870
15. Marco Melandri, Yamaha, 1:52.099
16. Carlos Checa, Yamaha, 1:52.266
17. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki, 1:52.583
18. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton, 1:52.848
19. Andrew Pitt, Kawasaki, 1:52.857
20. Colin Edwards, Aprilia, 1:52.883
21. David De Gea, Harris WCM, 1:53.521
22. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton, 1:53.708
23. Ryuichi Kiyonari, Honda, 1:53.913
24. Chris Burns, Harris WCM, 1:55.314


More, from a press release issued by Pramac Honda Racing Information:

SEVENTH QUICKEST, MAKOTO TAMADA MAKES SEVENTH PROVISIONAL PLACE IN RIO.

On the circuit for the first time, Makoto sliced two seconds off his afternoon’s time and came seventh in the first day in Brazil. Not a bad result by any means. The team technicians worked hard on the calibration of the suspension and enabled Makoto, who in the morning reported considerable vibration due to the uneven terrain, put the problem to rest in the afternoon’s qualifying round. Makoto’s RC211V was thus able to match up almost exactly to the harshness of the terrain and give the rider the right feeling to go really fast.

This meant the tyre tests could be carried out today and the initial choices could be made. Now that he is happy with the front tyre, Makoto still needs to make his choice of rear since he pointed out that the grip on the corners was not perfect when the tyre remains down for a long time.

The weather – cloudy but without rain – should stay exactly the same for tomorrow. This means it will be possible to test the tyres better and find the ideal solution. This initial day of tests in Brazil also shows how a good basic level of settings has been obtained for the RC211V, enabling Makoto to get straight into the job of working on the individual characteristics of each different circuit.

MAKOTO TAMADA (PRAMAC HONDA TEAM): 7th – 1:50.957

“I like Rio. I like the circuit, and already in the afternoon the bumps weren’t a problem for me any more. The front of the bike’s fine now, the tyre’s great, but we’ve still got to do some work to get better grip at the back. On the tyre bead, when the bike leans down for a long time, I still don’t have the grip I’d like to have, so I can’t open up the gas fast enough. This is a snag we know about and we’re trying to get it solved. We’ve been working very well on the settings and we’ve still got time to achieve the result we’re aiming for.”


More, from a press release issued by Harris WCM:

QUALIFYING THURSDAY ­ 19TH SEPTEMBER

David de Gea – 21st ­ 1:53.521

“I like this track very much, yes very much, I am happy with my time from today but I think it is possible for me to faster tomorrow. Today a 53.5, tomorrow I am aiming for a 52.5 ­ 52.8.

My mechanics are working on some problems that I had through the session with the exhaust, but overall I am happy with today.”

Chris Burns – 24th 1:55.314

“I haven¹t been to this track before and I find the track a little tricky to learn quickly. I’m happy though that I¹ve had a full day of qualifying on the four stroke without too many dramas, which is a good sign for tomorrow.

Today I rode both the 4 stroke that I rode in Estoril but qualified today with the even newer engine we have here. So I was switching back and forth, which is a bit of a handful, but the new engine is faster and I just have to get on with it and keep my head down. I’ll think about the track tonight to work out how I can improve my time tomorrow.”

Peter Clifford – Team Manager

“Overall a good day. Chris struggled a little bit with the new circuit and minor frustration’s with the motorcycle but David enjoyed his day I’m sure, even though he had a couple of technical problems that prevented him from being further up the grid.

It leaves me optimistic that both guys can improve tomorrow.”


More, from a press release issued by Alice Aprilia Racing Information:

BRAZIL GP/1st QUALIFYING SESSION
WAITING FOR A BETTER POSITION ON GRID
Chattering problems for the RS Cube of Alice Aprilia Racing Team. Colin and Nori did all the best to get a good lap time but all th e technicians are working hard in order to improve: the main objective is a better grid positions for tomorrow. They already made some changes on the setting especially in the front. Unfortunately a technical problem for the American rider forced him to use the bike no. 2 with different regulations compared with the first one.

COLIN EDWARDS: “I feel disappointed cause the day was not so positive but we are trying to get a better setting for tomorrow in order to start from the firsts positions for the race. I am ready cause I studied the track today: this is my first time on this circuit”.

NORIYUKI HAGA: “Well. there’s a lot of things to do but I got a good lap in the final part of the session. Anyway we will have to work hard tomorrow as well”.

GIGI DALL’IGNA (Project Leader): “Unfortunately we still have chattering problems on this track as well. We are ready to try different settings tomorrow concentrating our efforts in the fork. We had a technical problem on Colin bike no. 1 and he was forced the use the second one with different regulations. So we lost the chance to exploit the qualifying tyre. its’ a pity!”


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

DARK SKIES IN RIO AS FORTUNA YAMAHA TEAM COMPLETE FIRST QUALIFYING

The first day of the Rio Grand Prix proved more than challenging for Fortuna Yamaha Team riders Marco Melandri and Carlos Checa as they struggled with set-up difficulties in today’s qualifying session. Both riders endeavoured to find a suitable base set-up for the slick and bumpy Nelson Piquet circuit and focused on feeling rather than lap times, finishing this afternoon’s session 15th and 16th fastest respectively. Although weather conditions gradually improved throughout the day after a damp morning, the dry but gloomy afternoon qualifying session didn’t offer any relief for Yamaha’s Factory squad, who moved to Brazil from the European continent earlier this week with the rest of the MotoGP paddock.

Camel Pramac Honda Pons rider Max Biaggi led the rider board today with a lap time of 1:49.876, breaking his own circuit best lap record of 1:50.568 which gave him pole position here last year. Biaggi was closely followed by riders Loris Capirossi (1:50.212), Sete Gibernau (1:50.234) and Valentino Rossi (1:50.322), completing the provisional front row for Sunday’s race. The Rio Grand Prix marks the first of four intercontinental ‘flyaway’ races, followed by rounds in Japan, Malaysia and Australia.

After initially producing the 12th fastest time in this morning’s practice, Melandri showed some promise of improvement during this afternoon’s hour-long qualifying session. However he eventually finished 15th, with a best lap time of 1:52.099. Although the 250cc World Champion was able to show flashes of speed on his YZR-M1, instability over the bumpy tarmac hindered his feeling and consistency and, in turn, a competitive lap. Stability will be the target of Melandri’s crew and engineers this evening when they will work to put the 21-year-old back in the hunt for another front row start.

“That was a really difficult day, and I’m quite disillusioned because I thought I could start from a comfortable set-up straight away,” said Melandri, who has started from the front row of the grid twice this season.

“Instead I feel quite a long way behind the top riders and I can’t get a good feeling. It’s hard to know which tyres to use here, so we have to work hard to sort out these problems. I tried using softer tyres towards the end of the session but it didn’t make that much of a difference and I couldn’t even try for a fast lap. I really hope tomorrow will be better.”

Today’s qualifying session was equally disappointing for team-mate Carlos Checa, who produced one of his most determined rides in last year’s Rio Grand Prix. The Spaniard was unable to match his morning practice performance of seventh fastest, despite improving his lap time significantly. Checa sits in 16th place on the provisional starting grid with a time of 1:52.266.

“We have probably tested too many things today,” said a frustrated Checa, “and I couldn’t find the right way to go with the bike. We altered more than the suspension; we altered both the chassis and the engine set-up. I started this morning with my base set-up from Estoril, but the balance didn’t feel right and I didn’t have the confidence to push at all, so we have changed many things. We have lost one day doing this. For tomorrow we will go back to the base set-up. I hope that we can make up for lost time and that the weather stays dry so I can get a better lap time and grid position.”

Team Director Davide Brivio said, “We have some serious work to do tonight! Both riders had difficulties finding the right direction for setting. We need to check all the information from today and sit the riders down with the engineers to discuss every possibility. For sure we can improve tomorrow. Both riders were so busy changing their set-ups that, for different reasons, they were unable to try for a hot lap. We need the weather to hold out for tomorrow so they can move up the starting grid.”


More, from a press release issued by Team Proton KR:

Proton KR pair on fast learning curve in Rio

Jeremy McWilliams: 18th, 1:52.848
Nobuatsu Aoki: 22nd, 1:53.708

Team Proton KR riders Jeremy McWilliams and Nobuatsu Aoki made an encouraging start to the radical new four-stroke Proton KR V5’s sixth race at Rio today – but ran into problems in the afternoon that slowed progress of the fast-developing new racer.

Both riders lost track time to small but costly problems. All the same, results were encouraging, after the team achieved the new bike’s first double race finish at the Portuguese GP two weeks ago. The four machines in Rio are basically the same as those used in Portugal, but the all-too-public race development programme continues to give improvements, while back in England engineers are working on the next upgrade to the unique 60-degree V5 engine. The sweet-sounding KR V5 is already on the heels of back end of the pack of factory MotoGP four-stroke racers, although still in relatively rough prototype form.

The 4.933km Nelson Piquet circuit at Jacarepagua outside Rio poses special problems because of its extremely bumpy surface. This makes it a severe test not only of chassis design and integrity, but also of geometry and suspension settings. The newness of the KR V5 means that riders and team technicians are still learning fast, as they work towards base settings of a machine that raced for the first time only in June, at the Italian GP.

McWilliams was concentrating on suspension developments, and was in and out of the pits trying different rear suspension links. The down time meant he completed only 14 laps in the afternoon, compared with more than 25 for most runners. Aoki ran 12 laps, but ran into engine trouble that kept him off the track for the last half of the session – a disappointment after his latest chassis adjustments yielded a significant improvement.

Today’s first practice took place in overcast conditions, with some rain leaving the track damp in the morning. The forecast for tomorrow is for similar conditions, and rain would prove costly to Proton Team KR, needing as much track time as possible to push the development forward.

Jeremy McWilliams
I didn’t get anywhere near enough laps today. We’ve been making too many changes . clutching at straws to try and find more rear grip, and none of them really worked out. They’re changes that we haven’t tested before at the bike’s first time at this track, and today we went almost full circle, getting back to more or less where we started in the morning. The lap time was better, but it was hard work. We’re messing with rear suspension links, trying to get the rear to grip over the bumps. I’m losing the racing line because the bike won’t settle and dig in. It’s not the tyres. It’s a chassis issue. It will take us until tomorrow afternoon to get it right. We really need for it not to rain.

Nobuatsu Aoki
I have a bad cold, but that’s not the real problem. One of my bikes has some engine problem . just no power. The other was working well, then halfway through the session there was an oil problem, and I pulled in. I tried the other bike again, but only for a couple of laps, so that was the end of my session. Until then, things were going pretty well. The biggest benefit is that I was able to use a new Bridgestone rear tyre for the first time – it’s not new, but we couldn’t get it to work before. This afternoon I tried it again, and immediately went one second quicker. It’s easier to turn, and to control the slide.

Chuck Aksland – Team Manager
We were struggling a bit this afternoon. On Jeremy’s side it’s a set-up thing, with chassis that work differently from morning to afternoon. We’ll have to look at the data to understand what is happening. We are struggling to keep Nobu’s engine going. He was doing good, with his lap times coming down, until he had that problem.


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

Ducati Marlboro Team Immediatly on the pace at Rio

Ducati Marlboro Team rider Loris Capirossi was in the thick of the battle for provisional pole position at Jacarepagua this afternoon, even though this is the Italian factory team’s first visit to the high-speed circuit outside Rio de Janeiro. The Italian ended the day second quickest, just 0.336 seconds off provisional pole position. Team-mate Troy Bayliss had never ridden the track before this morning but was a promising ninth fastest this afternoon, 1.378 seconds off pole.

“This track isn’t so complicated,” explained Ducati Marlboro Team technical director Corrado Cecchinelli. “The only thing we’ve really got to work on is grip, because the surface is pretty slippery. We started today with the set-up we ran at Estoril, with different gearbox ratios, and we were pretty close from the start. Once we had made some changes Loris was able to run up front, while Troy just needs another day to keep learning the track, so we hope for good weather tomorrow.”

Capirossi second by a fraction of second
Loris Capirossi was in the hunt for provisional pole position throughout today’s first qualifier. Three minutes from the end of the session the Ducati Marlboro Team went fastest, but was then demoted to second in the final minute. However, Capirossi and his crew learned plenty from their first day together at this bumpy, slippery circuit and are confident of upping their pace tomorrow.

“I’m really happy because we improved the settings from this morning,” said the Italian, currently fourth in the World Championship. “We worked mainly on suspension and gearbox set-up and we were able to run a good pace. This is only our first day here with the Desmosedici, but things are going well and they can be better tomorrow because we’ve already found the right direction in which to work. This afternoon’s session helped us to understand what kind of pace we’ll be able to run here, because we are always working towards the race.”

Rio newcomer Bayliss 0.014 seconds off row two
Ducati Marlboro Team rider Troy Bayliss quickly got to grips with the Jacarepagua circuit, ending the day ninth fastest, just one hundredth of a second off the provisional second row. Australian Bayliss has his two Desmosedicis equipped with different Ohlins forks here – one bike uses the latest, larger diameter Ohlins, the other is fitted with the forks that he’s used for much of the season.

“It’s not a bad track,” said the hard-riding MotoGP rookie. “It’s easy enough to learn but like most places it’s getting the last little bit out of it which isn’t so easy. The only thing that most people are complaining about is that there isn’t much grip, so we’re working on the settings to improve feel from the rear, and we’ve a few ideas about what to do for tomorrow. I’ve liked the new forks since I tested them at Mugello last week. Why? Because they give me a better lap time! They just seem more stable under braking. I’ve been using the new forks most of today but I may give the old forks a bit of a try tomorrow just to see how they go.”

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Thursday Morning 250cc Grand Prix Practice Times:

1. Toni Elias, Aprilia, 1:54.086
2. Manuel Poggiali, Aprilia, 1:54.729
3. Sebastian Porto, Honda, 1:54.946
4. Roberto Rolfo, Honda, 1:55.015
5. Fonsi Nieto, Aprilia, 1:55.030
6. Franco Battaini, Aprilia, 1:55.239
7. Randy De Puniet, Aprilia, 1:55.356
8. Sylvain Guintoli, Aprilia, 1:56.348
9. Erwan Nigon, Aprilia, 1:56.742
10. Alex Baldolini, Aprilia, 1:57.102
11. Naoki Matsudo, Yamaha, 1:57.159
12. Anthony West, Aprilia, 1:57.261
13. Hugo Marchand, Aprilia, 1:57.358
14. Joan Olive, Aprilia, 1:57.413
15. Hector Faubel, Aprilia, 1:57.459


25. Katja Poensgen, Honda, 2:02.748

FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: His considerable talent on a motorcycle was surpassed only by his success at being a giving, caring person. Jody helped me numerous times at the track with helpful hints, sage advice and cheerleading support. His impact on me was far greater than our casual friendship might imply. We have lost one of the truly good guys. Reg Kittrelle Scotts Valley, California FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I was shocked when I logged on this afternoon. I couldn’t believe what I had just seen, Jody Hendley R.I.P. Jody was a way cool bro from So Cal. I remember my club racing days with John Hilton. Jody was always around and he was always pleasant to be around. And it was always cool to see him at the AMA nationals riding that ‘0l 883 in the Superstock and twins classes. He tried so hard. He was always thinking positive, even on his bad days. My condolences to his family. Joey Lombardo LBC FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I feel I have to pass on a few general memories and statements about Jody, and the impact he had on a lot of people. From the first time I met Jody, it was quite obvious that he was an exceptional person. You see, the first time I met the man was in turn 9 at Willow Springs, and I had just started racing. Riding my semi-new 96 YZF 750 in practice, I was (I thought) railing through turn 9 and going no faster than any man could go. Then here comes this orange monstrosity by me just before the apex – and I could not believe it, I had just gotten passed by a Hardley Able-to. So I had to go meet this guy. Well the person who I thought I was going to meet was way different in my mind than the person that I talked to. One of the most sincere, nice and quality individuals that I have ever met in my life. For the 3 or so years that followed, every time I saw him at any track, or if he saw me, we always had a few words, a handshake, a smile and appreciation for each other. Appreciation – not for any particular reason, mind you, or at least none that I could fathom. Just the fact that we were around, and enjoying racing. I wish there were more like you around Jody. A whole lot more. The world is definitely a lesser place for his passing. I never met Jody’s family, but please know that he was one of the best people I have ever met in my life, and he will definitely be missed. My sincere condolences. Godspeed Jody. Steve Sturm WSMC #98 Glendora, California

From a press release issued by KTM:

990 DUKE (PRE SERIES MODEL)
An uncompromising motorcycle for the streets with minimalist equipment, stronger than the common Naked Bike Twins, ultra light and with a more aggressive, more independent appearance. The 990 DUKE for street use with the 75° fuel injection-V twincylinder LC8 engine. Planned series debut autumn 2004. You will find detailed information starting overleaf.

990 DUKE: PRE SERIES MODEL
KTM definitely moves into the street motorcycle market with this model, but not without remaining true to the brand’s philosophy: with clear-cut identity, groundbreaking technology, and a sports-orientation which is already found in the core segment of off-road motorcycles.

ENGINE

Weight of the LC8 engine?

> The engine weighs 58 kg, approximately 20% lighter than the competition.
>The low weight results from the intelligent engine concept.
> Each component constructed from the viewpoint of durability and low weight.

Engine concept

> Two cylinder, 999 cc displacement.
> Short stroke V-engine with 75° cylinder arrangement
> Electronic fuel injection.
> The LC8 engine is vertically split at different levels for a spacesaving arrangement of the crankshaft and the two shafts of the six gear transmission.
> A space-saving “Multifunction Shaft” rotates in the V between the two cylinders, this supports two counter weights, drives the water pump and the centrifuge of the engine case vent, and serves as an idler for the starter and the two timing chains.
> The gear chains drive in the symmetrical (turned at 180° degrees) cylinder heads, each with 2 overhead camshafts.
> A nearly linear torque curve for a predictable performance pattern.
> Dry sump lubrication with a 3-liter oil tank under the water radiator.
> Series performance 122 hp at 9000 rpm, 99 Nm at 7000 rpm.
> 6-gear transmission gradation and cylinder heads distinguish themselves from the Adventure version.

CHASSIS

Frame concept

> Extremely robust, self-supporting, chromium molybdenum tube frame (round tubes).
> Total weight under 9 kg.

Weight / Tank volume?
> Dry weight 179 kg, at least 15% lighter than what is typical for the class.
> Ready incl. fuel 195 kg.
> The weight distribution is 51% in the front and 49% in the rear.
> The low mounting of the engine (no oil pan) and the positioning of the battery lead to an extremely low centre of gravity and optimal handling.
> The tank volume of the 990 DUKE is around 15 litres.

Shock elements / Seat height
> White Power shock absorber linked directly to the swing arm.
> the shock absorber is both in pressure (high, low speed) and in rebound and spring preload fully adjustable and holds 160 mm suspension travel.
> The fork is a 48 mm White Power USD fork “Multi Adjuster” with 135 mm suspension travel.
> The seat height of the 990 DUKE is just barely over 850 mm.

Cockpit / Equipment
> Centrally arranged, analogue tachometer and multifunctional cockpit display: daily kilometre (mileage) counter, tank stopdistance display, total kilometres (mileage), speed, time, low fuel warning light, cooling temperature, control lights.

Lighting
> Characteristic, extremely lightweight front headlight (only 800 grams) with very high luminance factor.
Brakes
> BREMBO radial hand brake cylinder with 320 mm double disc and 4-piston Brembo brake calliper (with 4 brake pads) in the front.
> 240 mm rear wheel disc brake with single-piston Brembo brake calliper.

Tyre equipment
> Wheel dimensions of 3.5″ in the front and 5.5″ in the rear for guaranteed optimal handling.
> Tyres come into use standard with the dimensions 120/70-17″ resp. 180/55-17″.

All declarations apply to the 990 DUKE pre series model, September 2003 stand, and are subject to technical changes up to the series debut.

990 DUKE: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION (STATUS SEPTEMBER 2003)

ENGINE…2-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, V 75°
Displacement…999,8 cc
Bore x Stroke…101 x 62,4 mm
Performance…122 HP / 9000 rpm
Max. torque…99 Nm / 7000 rpm
Compression ratio…11,8 : 1
Starter…E-starter
Transmission…6 gears, dog clutch engagement
Fuel…95 ROZ
Mixture conditioning… Electronic fuel injection
Control…DOHC
Valve…spur-gear driven tooth-type chain
Lubrication…Pressure circulation lubrication
Engine oil…Motorex Power Synt 4T, SAE 10W-50
Primary drive…67 : 35
Cooling…Liquid cooling
Clutch…Wet multi-plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Ignition…Denso battery ignition
Spark plug…NGK DCPR 8 E

CHASSIS
Frame…Chromium molybdenum tubular space frame, powder-coated
Subframe…Aluminum
Handlebar…Aluminum conified
Suspension front…WP-USD 48 Multi Adjuster
Suspension rear…WP- Multi Adjuster
Suspension travel front/rear…135 / 160 mm
Brake front…Double disc Ø 320 mm
Brake rear…Disc Ø 240 mm
Rim front/rear…3,5 x 17 ” / 5,5 x 17″
Tire front/rear…120/70 – 17″ / 180/55 – 17″
Transmission ratio…17:38
Battery…12 Ah
Steering head angle…66,5°
Wheelcaster…103 mm
Wheelbase…1438 mm
Ground clearance (unloaded)…165 mm
Seat height (unloaded)…855 mm
Tank capacity…approx. 15 l
Dry weight…approx. 179 kg
Weight (ready to race)…approx. 195 kg


660 SMS „FACTORY REPLICA”

This year the SMS will be offered in two different displacement models: 660 and also for the first time a 450cc. These motorcycles were built for racing and are not street-legal.

The 660 SMS is powered traditionally by the strong LC4 motor, with it is torque and sound performance. It is the ideal motorbike for the open class which it dominates mostly with private riders on a national level.

The 450 SMS, which is equipped with the well known racing motor from the enduro- and motorcross field, is adored for its agility and its light weight. It was therefore made to be THE bike for the small class, especially for young talents it allows the chance to show what they can do. It will be buildt on the base of a 450 Racing SX-basis with reinforced frame etc.

Features 660SMS
> Adjustable geometry of the chassis.
> Small plastic tank with single-piece carbon-spoiler-cowl for freedom of movement and first class handling. The reinforced seat base is made of carbon with an improved fit to increase stiffness and service life.
> Radiator air deflector guarantees an optimum of air supply.
> Carbon rear end with integrated air box is made of carbon to save additional weight, to increase the volume of the air box and to ease
the assembly of the air filter.
> Carbon front number plate for optimal aerodynamics and sleekly optic.
> The carbon used in all carbon parts is Boeing grade prepreg hardened at 180 degrees. The quality of the carbon fibre is up to aero space standard.
> 48mm WM SXS fork and SXS suspension strut with special layer and stiffer fork springs as well as improved tuning of the damping cater for a first class response. The setting was taken over directly from the factory team.
> Milled aluminum triple clamp.
> Racing Brembo brake system with milled 4-piston fixed brake caliper and 16mm radial pump.
> Dunlop slicks.
> Front brakes with cooling air scoop for optimal braking performance.
> Supermoto footrests for the enhancement of the inclined position.
> Akrapovic exhaust system with titanium silencer.

News 660SMS
> Highflow cylinder head.
> New positioning of the rear suspension reservoir for weight reduction, easier mounting and better access to the carburettor as well as a bigger range of excentric setting.
> Stainless steel seat mounting shackle for higher load carrying capacity and longevity.
> Adjusted exhaust mounting for enhanced torsional stiffness.
> Carbon rear end mounting with high strength aluminum alloy eye bolts.

From a press release issued by Mat Mladin Motorsports:

UNPRECEDENTED FOURTH AMERICAN SUPERBIKE TITLE AWAITS MLADIN AT ALABAMA

An unprecedented fourth American Superbike Championship title lies in waiting for Australian Mat Mladin, with this year’s AMA Chevy Trucks US Superbike Championship winding down this weekend with the final double-header round of the series taking place at Barber Motorsports Park, near Birmingham, Alabama.

Having won three consecutive AMA Superbike titles from 1999 to 2001, the 31-year-old currently holds that distinction with three legends of the sport, Reg Pridmore, Fred Merkel and Doug Chandler.

The Australian and his Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 have been the dominant force in this year’s championship, having won ten of the sixteen races held to date, but his season has not been without it’s problems as the increasing performance levels of modern Superbikes push the boundaries of components and more specifically tyres. A number of tyre failures during the season have cost Mladin valuable championship points while holding down a strong on-track position, but his experience and determination have seen his team overcome a number of these hurdles to place themselves in a strong position as they head into the final round of the championship.

Mladin will arrive at Alabama holding a 37-point lead in the championship over his Yoshimura Suzuki teammate Aaron Yates, with the pair a further 24-points clear of American Honda’s Ben Bostrom. Given the importance of the weekend, Mladin will have a number of race and championship scenarios on his mind as he takes to the new 16-turn 3.70km (2.3 miles) circuit which makes its first appearance on the AMA Superbike calendar.

“It’s going to be one of those weekends, where I’ve got a good points lead heading into the round and will only need to bring it home to wrap up the championship and then there’s a chance to go out and break some records as well,” said Mladin. “Having won ten races this year, I’ve been able to equal the all-time wins in a season record, so there’s a chance to come away with a record there and then there’s the all-time career win record where I’m two races short of that mark. So there’s a bit of pressure from those people interested in record books, but for me, it’s like I’ve said all year, the championship title is the one thing that we all want, not only from a personal level, but also from a team and Suzuki point of view.”

“I would love to win a couple more races, but it will be difficult to put all of the hard work that the team has done all year on the line just to win a race while a championship is there for us. At the end it will be a case of playing it smart and doing what it takes to win the championship.”

“We found that the Alabama circuit was tough on tyres when we tested there, so given the problems that we have had this year with tyres, we will need to come up with a race plan that gets us through. It’s a nice facility, but I honestly feel that it’s a bit tight for Superbike racing.”

Mladin’s on-track performances this season have seen him close in on, equal and extend a number of AMA records. His 30 career pole positions sees him well clear as the fastest qualifier in AMA Superbike, while his tally of 24 career race wins has him just two short of Miguel DuHamel’s all-time record of 26, ten of which were won this year, equally the all-time season win record held by former AMA and World Superbike champion Fred Merkel.

Qualifying for this weekend’s final round commences on Friday, with the final grid positions being determined during Saturday mornings second and final qualifying session prior to the opening 28-lap race which takes place later in the afternoon. The eighteenth and final AMA Superbike race of the season will then take place on Sunday afternoon.

BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK, – FAST FACTS

Circuit length: 3.70km / 2.3 miles

First time appearance on the AMA Superbike Championship calendar

16 turns, most of which are flowing

2003 AMA Chevy Trucks US Superbike Championship (points after 16 of 18 rounds):

1. M. Mladin (493); 2. A. Yates (456); 3. B. Bostrom (432); 4. K. Roberts (405); 5. M. DuHamel (393); 6. E. Bostrom (350); 7. S. Higbee (346); 8. J. Pridmore (339); 9. J. Szoke (260); 10. V. Haskovec (241).

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA PRO RACING CONFIRMS TV COVERAGE OF FINAL ROUND OF AMA CHEVY TRUCKS U.S. SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Sept. 17, 2003) — This weekend’s action from the AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship finale at Barber Motorsports Park will air on Speed during the race weekend, not a few days later as previously reported. A highlight of the action will be a live broadcast of the final race of the AMA 250 Grand Prix Series on Sunday.

This weekend’s coverage was originally scheduled to be shown starting Tuesday, Sept. 23. While neither of the AMA Superbike races will be shown live due to other commitments by Speed, both races will receive same-day coverage. Live coverage of Sunday’s Supersport race will begin at 1 p.m. and the 250 GP race at 2 p.m.

The complete schedule is as follows. All times EST.
AIR DATE TIME CLASS
Sat., Sept. 20 – 11 p.m. Superbike Race 1
Sun., Sept. 21 – 1 p.m. Supersport (LIVE)
Sun., Sept. 21 – 2 p.m. 250 GP (LIVE)
Sun., Sept. 21 – 5 p.m. Superbike Race 2
Tues., Sept. 23 – 4 p.m. Superbike Race 1
Tues., Sept. 23 – 5 p.m. Superbike Race 2
Tues., Sept. 30 – 5 p.m. Formula Xtreme

Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

There is so much joy when I think of Dave. When I first met him in the early eighties he was riding a 250 tuned by Bob Endicott, winning back to back Nationals at Laguna and enjoying life to the fullest. It didn’t matter what he was on, he was always competitive and he loved nothing better than a good race. About 12 years ago Dave came to work with the dP Safety School. Dave became a friend and riding buddy, a wonderful teacher who was able to infect others with his love for riding and mastering the art of high-speed competition. I remember one day he was so proud that he’d helped a student get to the point where he (Dave) couldn’t keep up! The student went on to win a couple of AFM titles.

Dave also introduced me to his wonderful family, I’d competed against Don in the early seventies and had enjoyed watching Dave win races and titles, after I’d quit racing and returned to college. It’s been wonderful riding with Nancy, and Chris, meeting Floyd and Flo, and watching Brian grow up. A couple of days before Daves’ accident some friends and I were riding on Hwy 36 in Northern California and my thoughts were of Dave and the first time I’d ridden this strech of road. When Dave rode with our School Sept 1, we’d made plans to get together for some road riding. He’ll always be riding with my memories. He made so many friends by sharing his love for riding, and life.
Godspeed Dave.
Dennis Pegelow
dP Safety School


FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

I would like to thank all of the friends and fans of Dave’s that have reached out to our family at this very difficult time. It brings us great comfort to hear all of the favorite experiences that they shared with Dave.

To keep this on the lighter side, I would also like to share one of my most unforgettable times with my brother. In 1992 Dave was working at Laguna Seca Raceway for Russell Racing. As a sideline he began working for Dennis Pegelow at DP Safety School as Head Instructor. A few years later, I was able to go up to Monterey to spectate at one of the DP track days. It was very impressive seeing how this whole thing worked. I couldn’t believe that a regular motorcycle rider was permitted to ride around the race track at Laguna Seca! How cool was that! After a few sessions, Dave came up to me and offered me a ride around the track. I jumped at this opportunity, not realizing at the time what he had in store for me.

When Dave wheelied up the front of the pit lane with me trying to stay on the back, I knew I was in for the ride of my life! As we entered the infield I thought, this is good, he will have to slow down now. Not a chance! As we worked our was through the corkscrew and back down through turns to the front straight away Dave accelerated even faster.

It was like turning on a light. This is what it feels like to go really fast! I had never had been on a Motorcycle at these speeds before! How great it was to feel what it feels like to be a Champion Motorcycle Road Racer!

The cornerworkers that day really had a great show as well, commenting on Dave’s smooth style, even with this chick on the back!

After a few more laps we came into the pits, where there were a bunch of guys that had big grins on their faces. Someone said, “That was your E-ticket ride”!

I am grateful for this fond and very fast memory. Thanks Dave!

Godspeed! I know he will have trouble keeping up with you!

Nancy Emde

TrailBoss Tours
Cardiff-By-The-Sea, California

From a press release issued by Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd.:

TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES INTRODUCES THRUXTON 900



Triumph Café Racer Legacy Continues with Thruxton’s Performance, Styling and Sound

NEWNAN, Ga. — Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., announced today the world introduction of a second exciting new motorcycle in the company’s 2004 model line-up — the Thruxton 900. This new machine was unveiled during a Triumph Motorcycles Limited press conference in Milan, Italy at the International Motorcycle Show. Also making its debut to the European market at this show is the Rocket III, Triumph’s thrilling new 2.3 liter power cruiser that was introduced to the world from the United States several weeks ago.

“The 2004 Triumph Thruxton remains true to its rich heritage,” said Ross Clifford, Triumph Motorcycles Product Manager, “with clip-on handlebars, rearset footpegs and megaphone silencers, this new motorcycle is the first Triumph café racer of the modern era.”

Named after a well-known racing circuit in Hampshire, England, the Thruxton pays homage to the original successes of Triumph’s 1969 sweep of first, second and third-place in the Thruxton 500 (a 500-mile endurance race), when a series of specialized racing Bonnevilles was born. During that time, the Bonneville Thruxtons were essentially racers for the road with well tuned engines and a pared-down, high performance look and riding position – an exciting, distinctive style that inspired the café racing street motorcyclists of the time.

To create the new Thruxton 900, the Bonneville’s 790cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine was enlarged to 865cc, then tuned with new cams, new carburetors and megaphone-style exhausts for more power and torque. The Thruxton’s engine has a peak power output of 69bhp at 7,250rpm and peak torque of 53ft.lb at 5,750rpm.

Revised telescopic forks and longer rear shocks (both with preload adjustment) enhance the suspension action while sharp steering geometry delivers responsive handling. A fully floating front disc and twin-piston brake caliper provide powerful, yet sensitive, braking performance. The tubular steel twin cradle frame and box section swingarm maximize the engine’s increased power output.

Polished engine covers, clip-on handlebars, rearset footpegs and a short front mudguard, further reinforces the bike’s café-racer detail. Color options are jet black or sunset red, both with a checkered-flag tank graphic and silver mudguards. The MSRP for the 2004 Thruxton 900 is $ 7,999.00 to be available at Triumph US dealerships in April 2004.

From a press release issued by WERA:

BIG FIELDS AND CLOSE COMPETITION FEATURED DURING WERA NATIONAL AT BARBER

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.- The WERA National Series visited Barber Motorsports Park for the first time during the weekend of September 13-14, and the large grids provided plenty of close competition for round nine of the series.

In the Dunlop/WERA National Endurance Series four-hour race held on Saturday, Vesrah Suzuki won by three laps. Tray Batey, Mark Junge and John Jacobi rode the Suzuki GSX-R1000, clinching their overall championship in the series.

Army of Darkness finished second overall, winning Mediumweight Superbike on a Suzuki GSX-R600. Sam Fleming and Jeff Walker rode for the team. Bradley Champion, Nicky Wimbauer and Brian Hanson won Mediumweight Superstock and finished third overall on the Team InfoTech/ValterMoto Yamaha YZF-R6.

Team OMC won Heavyweight Superstock with Morgan Broadhead, Corey Eaton and Opie Caylor on a Suzuki GSX-R1000. They finished sixth overall. Roaring Toyz won Lightweight Superbike in their first endurance race ever. Robert Fisher and Steve Leckie rode the Suzuki SV650 to a finish of 20th overall.

The grids for Sunday’s WERA National Challenge Series races were some of the largest of the season, and a number of AMA Pro racers entered the 8-lap sprints for extra practice before the upcoming AMA round at Barber.

AMA racer Lee Acree worked his way from the back of the pack to win 600 Superstock on his Triad Powersport Yamaha YZF-R6. Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki earned two victories during the day. Matt Furtek won 750 Superbike on a Suzuki GSX-R750 and Chris Ulrich won Pirelli Formula 1 on a Suzuki GSX-R750.

Vesrah Suzuki’s Tray Batey was the only expert to stand at the top of the podium more than once, winning 750 Superstock on a Suzuki GSX-R750 and Heavyweight Twins on a Suzuki TL1000R.

Mark Junge won Open Superstock on Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R1000, and David Weber won 600 Superbike on the XT Racing Suzuki GSX-R600.

Brian Kcraget rode his NESBA.com/Speed Werks Honda RS125 to a victory in 125 GP, while Chris Pyles won Formula 2 on a Honda RS250. Bradley Champion took his ninth win in Lightweight Superbike on a Suzuki SV650.

Sunday also featured a Suzuki World Cup Qualifier race. Opie Caylor made a last-lap pass to win by a bike length over Jake Holden on his Suzuki GSX-R750. Caylor will be one of three representatives at the Suzuki World Cup in France this fall.

In the novice races, Matt Lynn rode to three victories, the most of any racer that day. Lynn won the STAR School 600 Superstock, 600 Superbike and 750 Superstock races on his Suzuki GSX-R600.

James Chance III won both Lightweight Twins and Formula 2 on his Suzuki SV650.

Ryan Elleby won 750 Superbike on a Suzuki GSX-R750 and Fred Bittner rode his Ducati 996 to a win in Heavyweight Twins.

The tenth and final round of the WERA National Series will be held during the WERA Grand National Finals at Road Atlanta, October 29-November 2.

More information about WERA, including complete results from round nine at Barber, can be found on the Internet at www.WERA.com.