From a press release issued by Repsol Honda:


South Africa opens the door to the most expected world championship

The first of 16 rounds of the 2004 Motorcycle World Championship will take place next weekend at the South African circuit of Welkom. As every season, the winter has been much too long and all riders, teams and fans are looking forward to the first race of the season.

With the switch of the reigning World Champion Valentino Rossi to Yamaha, the Repsol Honda Team will make its debut with a new formation after the arrival of Alex Barros as new teammate to Nicky Hayden. Barros, who had a difficult season last year in Yamaha, a season full of injuries and crashes, gets back onto the bike with which he managed a superb end of the season in 2002. After a slow but positive recovery of the shoulder he got injured in 2003, the Brazilian rider gets back to Honda, this time within the Repsol Honda Team and with the firm objective of fighting for the 2004 title. His teammate Nicky Hayden will face his second season and, as his results during winter have shown, he will be aiming to everything this season, which is just about to start. Hayden, who this year won’t have the burden to race on circuits he doesn’t know, has had an impressive progression since he arrived at the World Championship last year. With two podiums and the final fifth overall position in the last Championship, the young North American rider from Kentucky has set the title as his aim for 2004.

Nicky Hayden
“I’m so excited about this season and can’t wait to go racing now. The winter testing has been good and I think we’re in real good shape for the season. The 2004 RC211V is awesome, by far the trickest bike I’ve ever ridden. I feel now I’m riding much nearer the limit where as last season was really a learning year. Now I know the tracks; I feel very comfortable with the team and I know the competition. It’s going to be super competitive this year as no one has really stood out in testing. That’s what is so great about GP. The best riders in the world on the best bikes every other Sunday. Sure going to be a good show.”

Alex Barros
“In all the years I’ve been racing I can really say that I have never felt as positive as do now at the start of this very exciting year. I have a strong team, a fantastic bike and a real opportunity this season. Back in February when I first ride the RC211V we make a plan to get to the first GP in good shape after the surgery I have to my shoulder over the winter. So in Sepang, Phillip Island and in Spain we learn a lot about the bike and my condition comes better and now we are ready to race. It will be a long season and very close. All points will be very important at the end. We are ready now!.”

GP venue: Phakisa Freeway
Brought about through an initiative of the South African government in early 1998, the Phakisa Freeway in Welkom is one of the newest race circuits on the World Championship calendar. Phakisa means “hurry up” in Sotho, the local language, and that’s the way it was built: in a hurry. The first National race event was held a mere 6 months after the work had started and the entire facility was completed in time for the 1999 Motorcycle Grand Prix, five months later. Designed in conjunction with officials of the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), the Phakisa Freeway is considered as one of the safest circuits of the calendar.

With 5 left and 9 right-hand corners and relatively short straights, the top speed on the 4242 m of this track, is usually slower than on most of the tracks. This circumstance is compensated by the altitude (1350 m above sea level), which reduces around 20% of the engines’ power turning the races into a question of skill rather than horsepower. The layout includes a classic racetrack and an oval for car racing. Being a fast track with some of the most challenging corners of the calendar, turn this race into one of the most exciting events of the year.

From a press release issued by Erion Racing:

Anaheim, CA—Erion Racing announced today that it is releasing rider Anthony Gobert from the Erion team effective immediately.

Gobert was hired by the Honda-supported Erion Racing team to compete in the new AMA Superstock class in 2004.

“There is a level of commitment and dedication that is required to be a rider on our team,” said team owner Kevin Erion. “Unfortunately, Anthony was unwilling to demonstrate the level of commitment and dedication required to get the job done. We wish Anthony well. He has displayed great talent over the years.”

No further comment is available at this time.


See related post:

4/9/2004 Erion: No Action On Anthony Gobert DUI Arrest Until At Least Next Week


And now, some reader reaction:

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

You are welcome to publish my submission, although I don’t expect you will.

I’ve read the letter(s) regarding the decline of AMA racing followed by the letter regarding the release of Anthony Gobert after being “charged” with DUI.

The real scary decline in this sport is how BORING it is becoming. WSBK is rubbish. AMA is rubbish. It’s unbelievable to think that people expect motorcyclists to continue supporting this nonsense.

Real talented riders like Aaron Yates and Go-show get abused, fined and worse while morons with Red-Bull sippy cups end up boring us on the TV. Give me a break.

This year I’m going to go to some club races regardless of how far I have to travel. Motorcycle racing cannot be this bad. Can it ?

I’ll buy the DVDs for MotoGP and BSB at the end of the year and I’m even revising my opinion of IOM TT which the political correctness and politics in these other series’ can only serve to bolster.

Excuse me now, I’m off to cancel my DirecTV subscription.

Great magazine and great website. Keep it up.

Malachy O’Connell
Arlington Virginia



FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

Is ANYONE shocked at this??

Gary Hilliard
Dover,Delaware

From a press release:

Join Pro Italia on Saturday April 17th 10am-4pm for our annual Aprilia Demo Day. Aprilia USA has provided Pro Italia with a full fleet of 2004
Aprilia demos including RSV-R, Futura, Falco and Capo Nord models.

Aprilia Demo Day:
– Demo Rides 10am-4pm
– Shoei Helmet representative
– SIDI Boots representative
– Save thousands of dollars on new 2003 Aprilia RSV Mille (black & red)
and RSV Mille R (silver).
– Food (Our own David Patton will be working the grill.)
– Beverages

We have a limited number of available demo rides. Please call or email Pro Italia Sales to reserve your preferred time.

818 249-5707
[email protected]

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

I would like to respond to Marcus McBain’s opinion (4/11/2004 A Racer’s Opinion On Declining AMA Pro Road Racing Participation):

Marcus McBain offers some interesting opinions on responsibility for the decline in participation in AMA Pro Racing’s road racing program. I agree with some of them, most significantly “everyone is to blame.” I think that he is misinformed in other aspects.

McBain wishes to paint AMA Pro Racing as pro-factory, anti-privateer. Given the circumstances, this would seem reasonable, as the AMA’s organizational structure grants significant representation to motorcycle manufacturers, and manufacturer’s executives that control factory racing budgets sit on both the AMA Pro Racing board and the AMA board itself. The problem is that the bias isn’t supported, and when he tries to slip “lack of integrity” into his criticisms, he lacks the substance to back up his position.

Many of us have participated in racing organizations that blatantly lacked integrity, where track records set by infrequent participants were erased, or homeboys were literally given different rules. The person who made the profit off the entries was the same person who officiated – and heard appeals. The manufacturer who sponsored the series controlled the television coverage, and when the wrong brand won, it didn’t get covered.

AMA Pro Racing has demonstrated their integrity by avoiding these influences. I have personally seen race officials stand by officiating decisions in the face of the influential manufacturers’ executives who sit on their own board. I have heard presentations to appeal boards where the AMA strictly limits their position to the facts, treats the appellant with respect, and avoids the issues and politics, while the appellant shows no such discipline. Despite their influence, I have seen the factories lose appeals – a reflection of AMA Pro Racing’s integrity. Most recently, I have seen Aaron Yates effectively given the “death penalty”, in a situation where no one wanted that to have to happen. The AMA’s integrity came through. The integrity of the sport was more important than a competitive season’s points chase.

We have seen AMA Pro Racing offer various privateer spiffs, such as top privateer qualifier, fastest privateer lap, etc. We have seen privateers exempted from tire compound rules and practice restrictions. We have seen the 1000cc Superbike rule that eliminates factory modifications that were common on the 750 Superbikes in order to help reduce the gap between factories and privateers. I have seen the AMA give free season entries to club racing champions.

The success of road racing is limited to what promoters wish to pay for, and in turn, what people want to pay to watch (and during which advertisers want to place their ads.) I have consistently heard that the promoters are not interested in classes that do not feature the big names and personalities of racing. They do not want to give up the track time, pay the fees or purses or offer up the television coverage for a race that doesn’t have Miguel DuHamel or the Bostroms in it. Somehow, I believe that this, rather than AMA Pro Racing, is why “privateer classes” are not treated in the way McBain wishes. The crowd and the television want an exciting two hour show. Improving the market appeal of the premier class racing product is the way to improve participation, and subsequent sponsorship and support throughout the racing hierarchy.

My personal opinion is that the television coverage needs to improve. We need an announcer who understands racing well enough to realize that Mladin’s lap times are three seconds a lap better than DuHamel’s, and that DuHamel will be passed in the pits at the current rate, rather than the contorted explanation that we listened to while watching Daytona. We need support shows that highlight racing personalities in a fun way, not Greg White’s “I’m a stud” attitude. (Imagine Steve Crevier as a host. We’d be tied to the tube. Your mother would be tied to the tube.) We need NASCAR-style ads, that make you actually want to see them, not Japanese-style fantasy ads.

Privateer classes at nationals are definitely not the answer.

Jay Sherritt
Boulder, Colorado

(Sherritt is a former racer and team owner…editor.)



FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

Regarding your post, 4/7/2004, AMA Pro Road Racing Participation Declining:

A brief comment on the continual decline in the AMA pro road racing. Our 100% privateer race team ran AMA Pro Racing series for eleven years. I may be under an incorrect ASSUMPTION BUT, during that time there were an astonishing number of road blocks from a variety of AMA Pro Racing management and selected corporate supporters of the series that continually popped up stalling and some times stopping us from participating. Lack of dissemination of information to the NON- FACTORY teams, unavailability of selected equipment, tires, engine parts to non-factory supported groups. Unique interpretation of rules or regulations not specifically listed in the AMA rulebook, then when a 100% privateer actually does good and sets up a non-industry sponsor, not affiliated with the selected group, Bam! a new rule change only affecting one rider AFTER the season starts and you’re left on the sideline. Seems like that has happened more than once.

After Daytona 2003 we basically pulled out of the AMA series and our rider took a position with a motorcycle company overseas as a test pilot. We no longer directly participate in the AMA series but do provide some support for riders in several other road racing series and the AMA MX/SX/AX series.

Justin & Bruce Blake
Caledonia, Michigan

From a press release issued by Moto Guzzi North America:

Moto Guzzi and Sportbike Track Time Announce Special Offer For All MGS-01 Corsa Buyers



Atlanta, GA—Moto Guzzi North America will partner with the premier track-day provider in the country to offer buyers of the high-performance MGS-01 Corsa an unlimited 1 year pass to unwind their bikes under safe, controlled conditions. The lucky owners of the first Corsa models to be imported will enjoy the thrill of riding without cars, signals, driveways, radar guns, gravel, double yellow lines, or other distractions.

“Our track days are all about just the pure joy of riding,” says Monte Lutz, who, along with partner Bonnie Strawser, founded Sportbike Track Time (STT) in 1997. In 2004 the Delta, Ohio-based company is offering nearly 100 event dates at 23 tracks across the United States. MGS-01 Corsa owners will be able to participate at any of those tracks or dates (excluding Talladega GP and Grattan).

The first 32 MGS-01’s to be imported are “track only” models, so the Sportbike Track Time offer is a perfect match to this one-of-a-kind bike whose introduction took the Intermoto show in Europe by storm. (A street version of the bike is scheduled for U.S. release late in 2004.) According to STT’s Monte Lutz, the collaboration was inspired when the first MGS-01 Corsa he saw “stopped me dead in my tracks. There have been only two motorcycles in my 40 years that have captivated me like that. I have admired this unique design which is a perfect blend of form and function.”

There is much to admire in the MGS-01 Corsa, which came to life from the imagination of the esteemed motorcycle designers Ghezzi and Brian working at the Moto Guzzi Style Laboratory in Mandello del Lario, Italy. The team is developing a new range of modern, agile, sport motorcycles to embody all the rich racing history and spirit of the famous Eagle brand. The MGS-01 Corsa’s designers decided to work with the existing 4 valve V-twin power plant originally developed for the Centauro. The new Corsa racing engine has chrome cylinder walls, Cosworth triple ring racing pistons, and (31 mm exhaust, 36 mm intake) nymonic valves. The choice for the transmission was the current V11 Sport’s road-tested six-speed gearbox and shaft drive.

Sportbike Track Time designs its events to be a cut above in every aspect. Not a racing school, or an “open practice” session for racers preparing for their race weekend, SST events cater to select individuals who want to have a quality experience while riding at their own pace. Events are open to riders of all skill levels. Personalized instruction is provided and encouraged. All novice group participants receive class-time and on-track instruction with qualified instructors at no additional cost. Personal instruction is available for the intermediate and advanced riders by the STT staff.

Sportbike Track Time is an approved AHRMA licensing school. STT operates events at Road America, Mid Ohio, Grattan, Pahrump, Gingerman, Beaver Run, Moroso, Talladega, North Florida Motorsports Park, Putnam Park, Virginia International Raceway, Barber Motorsports Complex, and other top facilities.

For more information about the MGS-01 Corsa, contact your nearest Moto Guzzi dealer or visit the Moto Guzzi North America website, www.motoguzzi-us.com. For information about Sportbike Track Time, visit www.sportbiketracktime.com.

From a press release issued by Ducati North America:

MICHAEL TAYLOR RACING DUCATI 999S IN PARTS CANADA NATIONAL SUPERBIKE SERIES

Four-time Canadian National Champion Michael Taylor will be riding the 2004 Ducati 999S for Z1 Cycletech in the Parts Canada National Superbike series.

Ducati increases its North American racing support with the addition of four-time National champion, Michael Taylor in the Parts Canada National Superbike series. Taylor, who recently returned from testing the Ducati 749R in Spain for Cycle Canada Magazine came home from the press launch enthusiastic about Ducati. He will campaign a 999S in the Canadian Superbike series this year. The 999 already dominates World Superbike and took the podium twice in the AMA series so far this year.

Michael Taylor declared himself completely fit and eager to go racing. “Five months ago I asked myself the question, will I be strong enough to compete? Indeed I will! My new team has the right bikes, the right people AND the right tires and I will be faster this year!”

Zaid Saleemi, owner of Z1 Cycletech is also looking forward to the challenge. “Having someone of Michael’s caliber and experience certainly makes my job a lot easier. We’re all really excited about the 999, everyone knows it’s a great platform to go racing. And I think Canadian fans are going to appreciate seeing a Ducati. I’m sure in some ways this will be a learning year for both of us, but as the season progresses be prepared for some surprises.”

The newly formed Z1 Cycletech Ducati team is supported by Eurocorsa performance, Importations Thibault Ltd, VP Racing Fuels, Steen Hansen, Shift Art & Design, Terminal Velocity Ducati and will use Dunlop tires.

Founded in 1926, Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. Ducati has won eleven of the last thirteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. The Company produces motorcycles in five market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport; Monster, Sport Touring and Multistrada. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 40 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European and North American markets. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at http://www.ducati.com.

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Mies, April 13, 2004

Superbike & Supersport World Championships
Regulations – Decisions of the Superbike Commission

The Superbike Commission, composed of Messrs. Claude Danis (FIM), Paolo Alberto Flammini (FGSport) and Giulio Bardi (Team representative), has unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the Road Racing World championship Regulations for Superbike & Supersport, for immediate application:

1.15.2 Practice Sessions
iii) The end of practice will be indicated by the waving of a chequered flag at which time the pit exit will be closed. A rider’s time will continue to be recorded until he passes the finish line after the allotted time has elapsed (to delete the rest of the sentence). After the chequered flag riders may complete one additional lap prior to entering the pits.

1.22 Behaviour during Practice and Race
8) Riders may enter the pits during the race. Refuelling and changing motorcycle are strictly prohibited.

1.23.2 Red Flag and Red Lights
To delete: At the end of each practice session and warm-up, the red lights will be switched on at the start line.

2.4.6.7 and 2.5.6.7 Tyres
To add at the end of each article:
After the samples have been delivered to the Technical Director at the beginning of the event, modification of the tread pattern (with the exception of the normal wear) is not permitted.

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA Pro Racing and Daytona International Speedway Officials to Meet

Pickerington, Ohio (April 12, 2004) — Officials from AMA Pro Racing and Daytona International Speedway are scheduled to meet this week to discuss AMA-sanctioned motorcycle racing at the race track. Issues related to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as the track’s upcoming renovation project are agenda items to be discussed during the meeting.

AMA Pro Racing Vice President, Director of Communications Kerry Graeber confirmed that Daytona remains an essential part of the championship. “There is so much history and importance surrounding Daytona,” says Graeber. “We’re looking forward to sitting down with Daytona’s leadership to map out the future of AMA motorcycle racing at the facility.”

Motorcycles have raced at Daytona International Speedway since 1961. The Daytona 200 by Arai is the cornerstone of motorcycle racing activities occurring each March. In addition to the AMA-sanctioned road races held at the facility, AMA Pro Racing sanctions a supercross race that’s part of the AMA Supercross Series as well as an AMA Flat Track Championship event at nearby Municipal Stadium. All of the races are held during Daytona’s “Bike Week” which draws thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. The 2004 event drew the largest crowds in recent years to view motorcycle racing at the facility.

Graeber stated that the major motorcycle manufacturers view Daytona as the premier event on the championship calendar. “Winning at Daytona is a tremendous accomplishment for any individual and, to a large extent, defines him as racer,” said Graeber. “Plus, when you consider the amount of effort put forth by the manufacturers in promoting their success at Daytona through advertising and marketing support, it’s obvious how important this single event is in everyone’s mind.”

Copyright 2004, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Racer Reuben Frankenfield and wife Brittany had a daughter, Mia Rose Frankenfield, April 10 in Indianapolis, Indiana.