From a press release issued by Team Hammer:

Moore, Siglin Are Semi-Finalists In Team Hammer Talent Search Presented By Alpinestars

Greg Moore, 25, of Brookwood, Alabama and Chris Siglin, 22, of Clayton, California have been chosen as semi-finalists in the Team Hammer Talent Search Presented by Alpinestars.

Moore and Siglin will both be outfitted with Alpinestars leathers, boots and gloves in Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki colors and will have the use of Valvoline EMGO Suzuki racebikes, mechanics and Michelin tires at the Suzuki GSX-R750 Cup Finals held in conjunction with the WERA Grand National Finals October 29-November 2 at Road Atlanta. The rider who finishes best in the Suzuki GSX-R750 Cup Final at Road Atlanta will take home a race-prepped 2003 GSX-R750.

Moore and Siglin were chosen based on the judging criteria announced at the beginning of the season. Judging in the program was based on each rider’s ability to be competitive at a variety of racetracks, their improvement during the 2003 season and their results in designated special events at Daytona, Mid-Ohio and Barber as well as in AMA, F-USA and WERA National Series events.

Early results saw five riders immediately stand out in the program, including Moore, Siglin, Darren Luck, Jack Pfeifer and John Ross. But Moore’s performance in the designated special event at Mid-Ohio and Siglin’s performance in the designated special event at Barber helped them in the judging, as did their improvement throughout the 2003 season. Conversely, Ross’ injury-forced early-season layoff, Pfeifer’s injury-forced mid-season layoff and Luck’s disqualification from an AMA Supersport National for running what officials said was an oversize engine, hurt them in the judging. Complicating matters, Siglin started racing a Yamaha as well as his Suzuki late in the season, but only his Suzuki results were considered in final judging. The final judging between Siglin and Pfeifer was extremely close, with special-event performance and improvement during the season making the difference. Pfeifer, 35, is from Las Vegas, while Ross, 39, is from San Antonio and Luck, 28, is from Bonita Springs, Florida.

Other participants in the program showed substantial improvement over the course of the season, but their results in the designated special events and in National races hurt them in the final judging.

Other program participants included Matt Elliott, 17, of Blountsville, Tennessee; Ivan Garza, 26, of El Paso, Texas; Paolo Mariano, 22, of Canyon Country, California; and Mathew Wise, 24, of McKinney, Texas.

The Team Hammer Talent Search Presented By Alpinestars is run by Team Hammer, Inc., which races as Team Valvoline EMGO Suzuki. The team’s administrative offices are in Lake Elsinore, California, and the team’s race shop is located in Athens, Alabama.

From a press release issued by Formula USA:

Formula USA Thunderbike National Champion David Estok (Kosco Buell/HD) will be featured on Speed Freaks National Radio Show at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time today.

Listen in and hear him discuss his success in the 2003 Formula USA Thunderbike class, and his preparation for Daytona next week October 16-19. (See link below for a list of stations in your area.)

David is the Formula USA “Thunderbike” National Champion on a Buell XB-9R motorcycle.

David Estok
* David Estok clinched the 2003 Formula USA “Thunderbike” Nat’l Championship at the last round held at Summit Point in West Virginia September 5-7.
* David races for the New England based Kosco Buell / Harley-Davidson team, managed by Rich Cronrath of Innovative Motorcycle Research.
* Cronrath has been the Championship tuner for the former Buell Lightning Series Nat’l Champion Michael Barnes, since 2000 and presented Buell with their first win in 600cc competition at the 79th Loudon Classic in 2002 with Eric Wood on board.
* David enters the final round at Daytona Speedway next week already a Champion.
* David rides a Buell XB-9R motorcycle. The only American-made Sportbike that has ever won a 600cc based class against the Japanese manufacturers.
* The Buell is built from an Eric Buell designed chassis, with a Harley-Davidson 1000cc motor.
* David has been a dominant force in Formula USA competition and has set the bar for the Thunderbike class.
* David previously raced Harley 883s, and 600cc machines.
* The Formula USA “Thunderbike” class features twin cylinder machines such as Buell Lightnings, Buell XB9, Suzuki SV650, Triumph Speed Triples, Ducati 750, etc…

* It is the 20th Anniversary of the Buell Motorcycle… for Estok to give them a win in a major national class on their 20th Anniversary is the “icing on the cake” for Buell in 2003.

For more information on the Formula USA “Thunderbike” class… visit www.FormulaUSA.com!


For radio stations in your area, visit:
www.SpeedFreaks.tv

From a press release issued by Fuchs Kawasaki:

MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2003
ROUND 14 – MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX
7TH OCTOBER 2003 – EVENT PREVIEW

NEXT STOP MALAYSIA FOR FUCHS KAWASAKI TEAM

The whirlwind end of season MotoGP schedule continues this week with Fuchs Kawasaki riders, Andrew Pitt and Garry McCoy, on a tight deadline to prepare for this Sunday’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

The race at the Sepang circuit is the second of three GPs being conducted on consecutive weekends with the swing through the Asia Pacific region completed next week when Pitt and McCoy will compete at home in the Australian GP at Phillip Island on Sunday 19th October.

But for the now the task is adapting to the energy-sapping equatorial climate of Malaysia, and already last Sunday’s Pacific GP in Japan is a distant memory.

For Pitt the race will mark the first anniversary of his GP debut and the end of his rookie status. Twelve months ago Pitt, who won the World Supersport Championship with Kawasaki, received a late call-up to replace the injured Akira Yanagawa and made his GP debut on the ZX-RR at a track he had never seen before.

Meanwhile team-mate McCoy will be simply looking for a change of fortune. Minor mechanical problems have forced the Australian to retire his Ninja ZX-RR early from the past two races in Rio and Motegi.

But the omens look good for McCoy in Malaysia, a country that has always been favourable to the hard riding Australian. It was at the Shah Alam track in 1995 that McCoy scored the first of five career Grand Prix victories, in the 125cc Malaysian GP.

More recently McCoy has twice been on the podium at Sepang in the blue-riband class, with close third places in the Malaysian Grand Prix races of 2000 and 2001.

Tropical heat, humidity and often thunderous afternoon storms are all part of the racing equation at Sepang, a circuit that features the unusual combination of two parallel straights, hard braking hairpins and a sequence of long, fast sweepers.

Andrew Pitt
“I’m looking forward to Sepang. It’s 12 months since I got thrown in the deep end for my GP debut and as a rider this race will give me a chance to gauge myself against the other guys and how much I have improved. At least this time around I know the track and the ZX-RR after a year of riding, and the bike will basically be the same as it has been for a while now, apart from the recent engine upgrade. I expect to be faster than before at Sepang, although it’s a track where we still face some familiar problems; not being able to get on throttle quick enough on corner exit and then trying to keep the front end down.”

Garry McCoy
“I’m here to race and get the best possible result and hopefully I’ll get a chance to go the full distance this weekend – I haven’t seen the chequered flag for a couple races now. Malaysia has some happy memories for me, so hopefully that’s a positive sign. At least we know what to expect here from the ZX-RR because we did a lot of laps in pre-season testing and hopefully all that technical and tyre data will give us a base to work from this weekend.”

Harald Eckl
“Sepang is a track that puts some emphasis on the chassis and even though we have raced and tested the ZX-RR here, it’s in these areas that Kawasaki have some catching up to do. While the recent power update is not a huge change it is a good overall step forward. It will be nice for Andrew to celebrate his GP anniversary and for us to measure his progress from last year. For Garry I’m hoping we can give him a bike that will go the full race distance; he’s a racer and I know that for him not to finish because of minor problems is frustrating.”

From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

2004 AMA SUPERSPORT, SUPERSTOCK AND FORMULA XTREME RULES FINALIZED

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Oct. 7, 2003) — The AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors has given final approval to a rules package for support classes competing in the 2004 AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship. Affected classes include Supersport, Superstock and Formula Xtreme. An overview of the final technical rules for the entire series can be viewed at www.USSuperbike.com

AMA Pro Racing CEO, Scott Hollingsworth stated that while the specific needs and goals of each class differ, the overall objectives for improving the championship as a whole are the same. “Maintaining close competition, delivering an entertaining show to our loyal fan base and slowing escalating costs to participants, the same criteria we applied to establishing our Superbike rule structures, were priorities here as well,” said Hollingsworth. “Once we consider the broad needs of the championship we then look at the specific needs of each class. The proposed rules were announced in August and, after taking into account a considerable amount of input received during the 30-day public comment period, the AMA Pro Racing Board of Directors approved the final set of rules. As a testament to the value of the comment period, as well as the input of the Road Race Advisory Board, some of the initially-proposed rules were amended based on quality feedback we’ve received.”

Hollingsworth added that a couple of significant issues needed to be dealt with in regards to the support classes, specifically Superstock.

“Ultimately we elected to enact a rule that prevents factory-supported riders from competing in both Superbike and Superstock,” said Hollingsworth. “This was done primarily to prevent riders from entering classes simply to gain extra practice time with no intention of actually competing in the class as well as to provide a place for independent teams to showcase their riders. However, some factory teams expressed a desire to be able to compete in both classes, so we wrote the rule accordingly.”

Another new rule enacted for the Superstock class is the requirement to use slick tires. This was done primarily for safety reasons. Supersport rules are largely unchanged and displacement limits for Formula Xtreme have been lowered to reflect the direction the majority of manufacturers are taking in terms of marketing their sport bikes.

“Of course it’s impossible to create a set of class structures and technical rules that satisfies everyone,” said Hollingsworth. “However, we are confident that we have done a thorough job of considering all the information available to us in terms of current technology, motorcycle market conditions and the goal of maintaining steady growth of motorcycle racing in the United States. The 2003 racing season saw some of the most competitive, spirited racing ever in the United States and we’re convinced that the evolution of these rules for 2004 will continue to achieve that objective.”

From a press release issued by John Hopkins’ publicist:

HOPKINS DISAPPOINTED WITH SUSPENSION, VOWS TO RETURN A SMARTER RIDER

RAMONA, Calif. – First year Suzuki factory rider John Hopkins was disappointed with the decision passed down Sunday by MotoGP officials that resulted in his suspension from the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix, however Hopkins promises to learn from the incident and return a better rider.

“I made a mistake and am deeply sorry to the riders caught up in the accident,” Hopkins reiterated. “I understand the importance of rider safety, but I was stunned by the penalty I received. If I had a pattern of dangerous riding I could understand the suspension, but my crash in Japan was a single mistake in judgment and I don’t feel it warranted such a harsh punishment. The last thing I want is to put myself and my fellow riders in danger.”

Hopkins went on to thank Suzuki in supporting him in filing an appeal on his behalf. He was also grateful for the support shown him by many of his fellow GP riders including two that were directly affected by the first-turn accident.

“No one felt worse about the accident than John,” said Hopkins’ manager Douglas Gonda. “John showed a lot of courage by admitting his mistake immediately afterwards. It’s unfortunate that officials rewarded his sincere apologies and honesty with a suspension.”

Gonda added that Hopkins has himself been a victim of riding mistakes by other riders in the past and he didn’t expect those riders to be suspended. “John knows everyone makes mistakes,” Gonda said. “John’s never had the reputation as a reckless rider and that’s what’s so tough. He’s a clean rider who made a mistake. If John had pulled off the pass he would have been praised for his bravery and skill.”

Hopkins said he would take the time off to prepare for the final two rounds of the 2003 campaign. He added that he would try to turn his suspension into a positive by returning a smarter rider.

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

AMA Superbike Top Speeds from VIR Race 2 (generated by official Timing & Scoring):

1. Kurtis Roberts, Honda RC-51, 174.4 mph*
2. Jordan Szoke, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 172.6 mph
3. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 171.3 mph
4. Aaron Yates, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 170.9 mph*
5. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 169.6 mph
6. Miguel Duhamel, Honda RC-51, 169.6 mph*
7. Andy Deatherage, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 168.8 mph
8. Jason Pridmore, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 168.8 mph
9. Ben Bostrom, Honda RC-51, 168.4 mph*
10. Mat Mladin, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 167.5 mph*
11. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 166.7 mph
12. Byron Barbour, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 166.7 mph
13. Tom Wertman, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 165.6 mph
14. Vincent Haskovec, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 165.5 mph
15. Giovanni Bussei, Ducati 996, 165.1 mph*
16. Jeremy Toye, Suzuki GSX-R750, 164.7 mph
17. Marco Martinez, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 164.3 mph
18. Douglas Duane, Suzuki GSX-R750, 162.7 mph
19. J. J. Roetlin, Suzuki GSX-R750, 162.0 mph
20. Mike Ciccotto, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 161.6 mph
21. Anthony Fania, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 161.2 mph
22. Steve Rapp, Suzuki GSX-R750, 160.8 mph
23. Scott Jensen, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 160.9 mph
24. Dean Mizdal, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 160.1 mph
25. John Haner, Suzuki GSX-R750, 159.7 mph
26. Robert Christman, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 159.3 mph
27. James Kerker, Honda CBR954RR, 158.9 mph
28. Mickey Lane, Suzuki GSX-R750, 158.9 mph
29. Jacob Holden, Suzuki GSX-R750, 158.6 mph
30. Rick Narup, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 157.8 mph
31. Chris Ulrich, Suzuki GSX-R750, 156.4 mph
32. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 156.0 mph
33. Scott Carpenter, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 155.3 mph
34. Kevin Hanson, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 154.6 mph
*Factory riders

From a press release issued by FIM:

Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix
Pacific Grand Prix: decision of the Race Direction

On Sunday 5th October, during the MotoGP race, American rider John Hopkins has ridden in an irresponsible manner causing danger to other riders.

For this infraction to Art. 1.21.2 of the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix Regulations, the Race Direction decided to impose upon him a suspension for the next Grand Prix event (Malaysian Grand Prix, Sepang, 10-12 October 2003).

This decision of the Race Direction was subsequently confirmed in appeal by the FIM Stewards.


The decision of the FIM Stewards is final.


More, from another press release issued by FIM:

Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix
Pacific Grand Prix: decision of the Race Direction

On Sunday 5th October, during the MotoGP race, Japanese rider Makoto Tamada has ridden in an irresponsible manner causing danger to Spanish rider Sete Gibernau.

For this infraction to Art. 1.21.2 of the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix Regulations, the Race Direction decided to disqualify him from the race results.

This decision of the Race Direction was subsequently confirmed in appeal by the FIM Stewards.

The decision of the FIM Stewards is final.

From a press release:

The Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® Presented By Toyota Trucks Announces 2003/2004 Schedule

Fun For Motorcycle Fans This Winter In Thirteen U.S. Cities

Santa Ana, CA — This winter, powersports fans, manufacturers and dealers are coming together to celebrate a common passion: motorcycles. The Powersports Group, producer of the popular Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® presented by Toyota Trucks, has just announced its 2004 show schedule. Traveling to 13 major cities across the country, the series is an unparalleled opportunity for bike buffs along with casual enthusiasts to experience the cutting-edge of powersports vehicles, products, and services.

SAN FRANCISCO
November 7-9, San Mateo County Exposition Center

DALLAS
November 21-23, Dallas Convention Center

SEATTLE
December 5-7, Seahawks Exhibition Center

LONG BEACH
December 12-14, Long Beach Convention Center

DENVER
December 19-21, Colorado Convention Center

NEW YORK
January 2-4, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

WASHINGTON
January 9-11, Washington DC Convention Center

ATLANTA
January 16-18, Cobb Galleria Centre

OHIO
January 30-February 1, IX Center (Cleveland)

CHICAGO
February 6-8, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

DETROIT
February 20-22, COBO Conference/Exhibition Center

DAYTONA
March 3-7, Daytona International Speedway

MINNEAPOLIS
March 26-28, Minneapolis Convention Center

Popular with powersports fans across multiple segments and skill levels, all thirteen shows are fully supported by the industry’s major Original Equipment Manufacturers—Aprilia, BMW, Buell, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory, and Yamaha. The Powersports Group is also pleased to welcome back KTM, as well as Ducati, and Moto Guzzi this time for the full tour. As always, an onslaught of the hottest sportbikes, cruisers, scooters, dualsport machines, off-road bikes, motocross and 4-wheel ATVs will be represented.

Show attendees who want in-depth information on motorcycle parts and accessories can visit the expert staff in “The Factory,” a showcase of the latest aftermarket products and essential riding gear where they can compare and discuss everything from performance parts to the latest communications hardware with manufacturer representatives. We are please to have the following companies participating in the Factory: Arai Helmets, Avon Tyres, Bell Powersports, Inc., Chatterbox, Cobra Engineering, Desser Tire & Rubber Co., Dowco, Inc., Dunlop North America, HJC America, K & N Engineering, Kendon Industries, Metzeler Motorcycle Tire, Pirelli Motorcycle Tires, Progressive Suspension, Shoei Helmets, Suomy Helmets, Top Gear Accessories, Travelcade, Ventura and Yuasa Battery, Inc.

Show highlights will include stunt riders, special demonstrations and interactive features. This year’s series premiers the Ball of Steel Stunt Show complete with gravity-defying stunts and caged performances by extreme motorcycle riders in an enclosed steel ball. Attractions will also include vintage displays highlighting vehicles of all makes and models, the innovative Video Lounge showing the latest extreme motorcycle videos on the market, and the all-new Club House with special features, message boards, and contests targeting motorcycle club members.

“We’ve got big plans for this year’s International Motorcycle Shows,” enthuses Show Director, Jeff D’Entremont. “After 23 years, the series has taken on a life of its own and has become an annual tradition for most attendees. Drawing folks from every walk of life – from families with kids to hard-core, 20-something riders – the series will be this winter’s must-see event for motorcycle fans across the nation.”

The Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® presented by Toyota Trucks kick off this November in San Francisco, with later stops across the U.S. including: Dallas, Seattle, Southern California, Denver, New York, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Ohio, Chicago, Detroit, Daytona, and Minneapolis.

Tickets are available in advance at www.motorcycleshows.com and on-site at the box office. Members of the American Motorcyclist Association who show their membership cards when purchasing tickets at the box office on-site are eligible for a $1 rebate coupon redeemable at the AMA booth inside the show. Discount coupons are also available at participating local dealers. Visit www.motorcycleshows.com for a complete list of participating dealerships. Only one discount will be granted per ticket; no discount offers may be combined.

Please direct all reader inquiries to the InfoLine at (800)-331-5706 CST and (218)-723-9130 CST or to www.motorcycleshows.com.