PO Box 123888
Ft. Worth, TX 76121
Phone: 817-377-1599
FAX: 817-377-1655
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
CMRA’s New Address And Phone Number
2003 WMRRA Boards Announced
From a press release issued by WMRRA:
The Washington Motorcycle Road Racing Association would like to welcome the new members of the 2003 Executive Board and Board of Directors:
Executive Board:
President: Joel Crabtree
1st VP: Jimmy Stewart
2nd VP: Mark Creager
3rd VP: April Brock
Secretary: Diane Thompson
Treasurer: John Muir
Novice Rep: Paul Gienau
Supersport Rep: Luke Gaylor
Superbike/GP Rep: Tyler Sandell
Vintage Rep: Duncan Craick
Board of Directors:
Kory Gill
Mark McGuire
Greg Zanghi
Briggs Willoughby
On Schwantz, Roberts And Hopkins At Sepang
From a press release issued by Suzuki:
TWO CHAMPIONS, ONE ROOKIE CLOSE FIRST FOUR-STROKE CHAPTER
Team Suzuki HQ, Edenbridge, England. November 20th 2002
The first chapter in the life of Suzuki’s new-this-year prototype four-stroke Grand Prix racer – the 200-plus horsepower GSV-R – was closed in fitting style in Malaysia in the fortnight after the bike’s last race, when racing legend Kevin Schwantz joined the factory teamsters for final tests.
Also in action was 2000 World Champion Kenny Roberts Jr., looking forward to his fifth year with the factory Suzuki team, and fellow-American John Hopkins, a four-stroke first-timer who will be Kenny’s team-mate in 2003.
Roberts (29) is fresh from the 2002 season, a year of on-track development of the all-new machine, in which a path of steady improvement from raw prototype at the first races took him to the top-three rostrum in Brazil at the other end of the season.
Teenager Hopkins (19) had just completed his first GP season after a rapid rise through US racing. Riding a 500cc two-stroke, “Hopper” was far and away top newcomer, with a string of points-scoring rides.
1993 World Champion Schwantz (38) was officially at the tests to gain impressions of the exciting new GSV-R for major US monthly magazine Cycle World. Such was the legendary Suzuki star’s speed, however, that he also found himself acting as consultant to the factory engineers.
“Revvin’ Kevin” rode for Suzuki throughout an astounding racing career, which started with a blaze of glory in US Superbikes, then took him to legendary status in ten years as the swashbuckling star of the 500cc class. Schwantz won the World Championship in 1993, and racked up 25 GP wins in spectacular style, putting him in the top five of all-time GP winners.
The major purpose of the three-day tests, aside from introducing Hopkins to his new machine, was to assess a further evolution to the chassis, and to finalise data on other aspects. All this information will be added to that gathered in the racing season, to be built in to next year’s Mk2 version of the 200mph GSV-R. This will take the exciting V4 project from first prototype to fully fledged racer, with the clear aim of achieving race-winning and title-winning potential from the start the 2003 season.
“The weather wasn’t kind to us, but we expected that in Malaysia, and that was why we booked three days when we could have done what was needed in two. As it turned out, we used all three days,” said team manager Garry Taylor.
“Kenny worked hard assessing the new evolutionary chassis, and made good progress. We’re not releasing lap times, but they were very competitive.
“John was very impressive – taking it steadily and getting faster and faster throughout the tests. His team were particularly struck by his mature approach, considering he is still only 19. We’re all really looking forward to next year with him,” Taylor continued.
“It was fantastic to see Kevin on a GP bike again. He asked us at the start of the year, but he said he wanted a proper test, and he ran a couple of GP distances. He hasn’t lost his touch at all, and he was physically just as fit and vital as during his career. His times would have embarrassed a few other riders at the first day of qualifying for this year’s Malaysian GP.
“It was very useful to have some like Kevin’s insight, and we’d love to do it again some time. The factory and team engineers were also really interested in his opinions, which backed up Kenny’s. It all helps to clarify the requirements for next year’s machine, which will take the V4 concept a stage further,” said Taylor.
“It was hard on riders and team to have to test with the GP season barely over, but now we will take a break until January. The good thing is that the factory engineers now have a long spell to concentrate on incorporating everything we have learned into next year’s bike, which is already at an advanced stage on the drawing board,” the team manager concluded.
KENNY ROBERTS – LAP TIMES AND TIME ZONES: The tests were useful. The new chassis ideas seemed to be of benefit, although more in comfort of riding the bike, and in improving the overall race pace rather than individual lap times at this stage. We can work on that. Other bits and pieces we tested were nothing compared with what the next step’s gonna be. In the last part of the season we’ve been working hard on what we need for next year’s bike.
Kevin looked good and had a lot of fun on the bike. He was able to point out some things right away, that were the same as me. The factory engineers are pretty confident with the rider information they’re getting now. John was good and steady. He has a lot to learn, but for how young he is he did a great job.
Now I’m just trying to get used to getting back into a normal sleeping rhythm – for a couple of months now we’ve been changing time zones just about every week. I’ve a few things to do right up almost until Christmas, so I’ll be grabbing time off wherever I can in between.
JOHN HOPKINS – GETTING TO KNOW YOU: I thought my first ride on the Suzuki was really good. I went out and had fun and put in the laps. The bike was everything I’d expected, and it was really good to get back on Michelin tyres. I felt real confident on them right away, and that’s one of the big things I’m happy about. To ride, the bike is a little like a 500 in some ways, and in other ways more like my old Formula Xtreme machine (Hopkins won that title in 2001 on a race-kitted Suzuki GSX-R1000). The way it handles is like the GP bike, but it seemed quite a bit easier to ride than a 500. It gets the power to the ground more like the Formula Xtreme bike. And there’s a real lot of power.
I’m taking a break now – just being home is a holiday after my first season and all the travel. I’ll spend as much time as possible riding my motocross bike, and we’re also moving into a new house that was built while I was away during the season.
KEVIN SCHWANTZ – FUN AND FAST AGAIN, JUST LIKE BEFORE: On the way to Malaysia I was wondering why I was flying 14 hours just to ride a motorcycle. I have lots of them at home. After riding the GSV-R, I want to ride it again. I’d be prepared to fly to Japan to do it! I really liked it and had a good time riding it.
To me, I guess the biggest difference compared with the four-stroke 500 was how physical you have to be to change direction when you’re on the gas – like through S-bends. I guess that would be because of the extra mass of the crankshaft spinning up. The clutch didn’t seem a big drama to me, but at the same time I was lapping three seconds off. Whenever anybody rode my bike, I didn’t think much of their comments if they were a second or even half-a-second slower than me!
It has tons of power. I found if I would roll through the turns a gear higher than Kenny, with lower revs, it would immediately wheelie off the turn because of the torque. You have to use more revs to spin the rear or make the front light to finish off the corners.
At the moment I run my racing school several times a year in the US, work with the AMA, and also with Suzuki here with their AMA race team at all the national Superbike races. Next year I’m hoping to run some race shools at a track in Britain, and to attend a few GPs.
Pacific Track Time Releases 2003 Track Day Schedule
From a press release:
Pacific Track Time announces 2003 event schedule!
March 17 (Monday) – Streets of Willow Springs
March 31 (Monday) – WSIR (Big Track)
April 7 (Monday) – Thunderhill Park
April 14 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
April 15 (Tuesday) – Streets of Willow Springs
May 12 (Monday) – Thunderhill Park
May 13 (Tuesday) – Thunderhill Park
May 31 (Saturday) – Laguna Seca
June 9 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
September 1 (Labor Day Monday) – Thunderhill Park
September 2 (Tuesday) – Thunderhill Park
September 15 (Monday before Toyota 200) – WSIR Big Track
September 22 (Monday after Toyota 200) – Streets of Willow
October 13 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
Fall Laguna dates TBA soon
Order Your Umbrella Girl Now, And Generate What This Release Calls Male Energy
From a press release issued by UmbrellaGirls USA:
THE NEW GIRLS TO ADD GLAMOUR TO THE GRIDS
A new class of UmbrellaGirl have strutted into the American motorsports to liven up the grids of racetracks across the nation. UmbrellaGirls USA is a modeling/marketing agency with a difference, specializing in gorgeous women who have been selected specifically to work in the fast paced world of motorsports.
Each woman either works in the industry or has a passion for high-octane sports. Many of the UmbrellaGirls are bilingual, making them perfect for the likes of Laguna Seca’s World Superbike or the Indianapolis Formula 1.
When appearing on behalf of their own agency, the UmbrellaGirls will tote their own signature pink umbrellas and sport custom designed outfits ala World Superbike (with the exception of the West outfits used to launch Noriyuki Haga’s sponsorship). UmbrellaGirls USA will also design custom outfits for their clientele that will not only be attractive and eye catching, but will stand apart on the grid and in the paddock.
The motivation behind UmbrellaGirls USA came when owner, Ann Asiano, a civil litigation attorney with Bradley Curley Asiano & McCarthy and part owner of Ducati Triumph Yamaha of Marin in San Rafael, attended Misano’s WSB race earlier this year.
“The male energy of looking for the pretty girls, at Misano, was absolutely palpable,” says Ann. “I saw how the Europeans recognize the importance of having young, beautiful women associated with their motorsports events and how much it adds to the experience. I noticed there was not the same concentrated effort at the American WSB round and felt many teams and manufacturers had missed a golden opportunity to market themselves and their products.
“That is when I decided to introduce the first organized motorsports modeling and marketing agency, supplying women who are not only striking but who know the sport, are conversant in the products and can communicate with fans, teams and riders. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of young women that fit these criteria. The UmbrellaGirls models are very excited to support the motorsports industry and to convey their true enthusiasm for the sports and products they will represent.
“The fans will appreciate the added dimension UmbrellaGirls USA brings to the events and we also hope to serve our goal of raising female awareness within the industry.”
UmbrellaGirls USA specializes in: Models (both promotional, print and fashion), Hospitality Hostesses, Trophy and UmbrellaGirls.
They have made their official debut at the International Motorcycle Show in San Francisco at the San Mateo County Fairgrounds on November 8th-10th. Judging by the attention and the hits to the website, they will be a force in the industry.
The next official appearance of UmbrellaGirls USA will be at the Indy Dealer Expo 2003 in Indianapolis February 15-17th, 2003.
For more information call Ann Asiano direct at: 415-472-1965 or visit the website at: www.umbrellagirlsusa.com.
AMA Asks EPA To Consider Cost Of Emissions Regulations
From a press release issued by the AMA:
AMA: “Safety, Costs Important In Streetbike Emissions Rules”
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) told the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that its proposed new streetbike emissions standards must not compromise the safety of riders, dramatically increase costs, or reduce motorcycle performance.
In written comments submitted to the EPA on Nov. 20, the AMA also stressed that the proposed rules should continue to allow for the installation of after-market products, and allow owners to work on their own motorcycles.
“The AMA and the motorcycling community remain concerned that certain provisions in this (proposal) may result in fewer choices, higher prices and even tighter restrictions on future highway motorcycle models,” Edward Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, said in the comments. “Again, safety, cost, performance, continued availability of after-market products and self-maintenance are paramount in the minds of the motorcycle owners we represent.”
The AMA also disagreed with the EPA’s assertion that highway motorcycles are a “significant contributor” to air pollution. But the Association agreed with the EPA proposal to give small manufacturers of custom motorcycles more time than other motorcycle manufacturers to meet the new proposed emissions standards.
The EPA is considering implementing revised national emissions standards for new road motorcycles that would require those bikes to meet strict emissions standards beginning with 2006 models, although small manufacturers would have a 2008 deadline. The federal standards would be the same as those adopted by the state of California, but would go into effect two years after California’s standards.
A second tier of national emissions standards would be in place for 2010 models. It would be decided later whether small manufacturers would need to meet those standards.
Some motorcycles sold in the United States already meet California’s strict 2008 standard, which is the same as the proposed federal 2010 standard.
The new national emissions standards are expected to result in an increased use of fuel injection and catalytic converters on new motorcycles.
Moreland commented that catalytic converters, designed to operate at high temperatures, may not be appropriate for some motorcycles where the exhaust system is placed near the legs or feet of a rider or passenger, creating a possible safety hazard.
In addition, the AMA fears that new and replacement exhaust emission control components, coupled with the cost of repair and maintenance of complex equipment, will drive the cost of motorcycle ownership out of the reach of some owners.
“Increased costs at all levels of the motorcycling industry will result in fewer choices and reduced sales,” Moreland said. “This will result in economic hardship for many, especially small businesses involved in sales, services, and parts and accessories from non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) suppliers.”
The new California standard that begins with the 2004 model year, and the proposed federal standard that would take effect for the 2006 model year, require new motorcycles to emit no more than 1.4 grams per kilometer traveled of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, and 12 grams of carbon monoxide.
The California standard for 2008, which would also be the national standard beginning in 2010, sets a limit of 0.8 grams per kilometer of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides and 12 grams per kilometer of carbon monoxide.
The current federal emissions standards for street motorcycles are 5.0 grams of hydrocarbons and 12 grams of carbon monoxide per kilometer traveled.
The EPA is accepting written comments on its proposed street motorcycle emissions rules until Jan. 7. You can e-mail comments to [email protected], or go to the Rapid Response Center at the AMA website at www.AMADirectlink.com to send comments. You can see the proposed rules, and the entire text of Moreland’s comments, in the “Protecting Your Right to Ride” part of the website.
Another Company Accepting Race Support Resumes
From a press release:
BRP, the U.S. importer of Champion Equipment, is currently accepting racer resumes for the 2003 season.
For more information visit www.fastbikes.us or call 866.462.7770.
BRP RACER SUPPORT TEAM
And The Rain In Spain Also Falls On The Ducati Desmosedici
From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:
DUCATI CORSE PRESS INFORMATION
Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)
Wednesday 20 November 2002
DUCATI DESMOSEDICI TESTING AT JEREZ CONCLUDES WITH MORE BAD WEATHER
Bad weather again affected Ducati Corse testing today at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit in Spain. The Italian manufacturer, which will make its MotoGP debut in 2003, had planned a three-day session this week at the venue for next May’s Spanish round of the championship, but the final day was also disturbed by rain.
The unusually uncertain weather conditions in the south of Spain in this period led to a change in the programme, allowing Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss to test the Ducati Desmosedici in wet-weather set-up, and although both riders put in few laps today, numerous positive indications emerged on a technical level.
While Loris lapped with the ‘Four Pulse’ version of the Italian V4 engine, Troy tested the Desmosedici with the ‘Twin Pulse’ layout. The Australian established a good feeling with this version of the power-unit, which adapts well to low-grip conditions. The two riders will continue the next tests with both engine versions.
Track Technical Director Corrado Cecchinelli commented: “Unfortunately we haven’t been very lucky in the last two days but day 1 gave us a series of positive indications. Loris lapped quite well on a track he loves, while for Troy it was his first time out on a new circuit. Today both riders did very few laps due to the bad weather but despite this we look at the three-day ession here at Jerez as positive”.
Ducati Corse is unable to supply any images or rider comments of Loris Capirossi until the end of 2002.
Apparently Even The Barber Museum Glass Contractor Reads This Site
FIRST PERSON/OPINION: This just in, via e-mail: Regarding the article written on 11/18/02 by Michael Hannas about his visit to the Barber Motorsports Park: The facility is everything, and more, as he stated. But, as the Project Manager for the glass contractor on the Museum I feel I must clear up the comment about the glass replacement on the Museum Building. “All” of the glass was not replaced. Only about 15 pieces of glass were installed as Mock-up pieces of glass for the sole purpose of letting the people with the Barber organization view it before ordering the huge quantity of glass required for the job. It is true that the mock-up glass was not up to their expectations. Another glass supplier was brought in that has produced acceptable glass and we are installing the glass now. Just wanted to put an end to one of the many over-exaggerated rumors coming out of that project. Scott Padgitt Alabaster, Alabama
Updated Post: Blashfield And Strohman Dissolve MB Motorsports
Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
By David Swarts
MB Motorsports co-owners Frank Strohman and Matt Blashfield have decided to end their two-year partnership and concentrate on their separate businesses.
“He’s got to concentrate on his sign business (Blashfield Signs/Communications),” Strohman told Roadracingworld.com Wednesday from his shop in Fayetteville, North Carolina. “He has a lot at stake there, and he’s been real busy this past year and hasn’t had much time to devote to MB Motorsports, as he would like to. So he basically just wanted to get out.
“Basically our philosophies were a little bit different,” continued Strohman. “I was more racing oriented and wanted to do the racing and the R&D (research and development) through the racing, and I think Matt wanted to go in the direction of more marketing for parts and stuff like that. So you know, just a little bit of difference of philosophy, but more than anything else he had to have the time to concentrate on his business.
“He does a lot of military work (for the U.S. Army post, Fort Bragg). He hasn’t had the opportunity to travel with the team and help like he kind of wanted to. So he just needed to back out. I think he’s going to do some of the little regional races, he teaches at that Learning Curves school and I think that’s about all he has time for right now.”
With several National road racing Championships as a rider and a tuner to his credit, Strohman plans to continue doing engine building, chassis tuning and race-prep work for lightweight Twins under a new company name, Twin Works Factory, and says he will start expanding into big-bore Twins. “I figured that we’d go ahead and start another company and have that company carry the race team through next year and so on,” said Strohman. “So nothing’s really changed except the name, and it will be a sole proprietorship. We’re busy getting a website together to put up right now.
“Nothing’s really changed except for one less partner. Everything else, all the services remain the same, same race team, same people on the race team, nothing’s changed, except the name. Bradley (Champion) will be riding. Bobby Fisher is coming back next year; so he’ll be back. So between Bradley and Bobby and backing them up with Zoran and Bernie Huntt, we ought to be pretty damn good to go.”
MB Motorsports won the 2002 SV650 Suzuki Cup Championship with Bradley Champion and the 2001 CCS Lightweight Superbike National Championship with Robert Fisher, also on a Suzuki SV650, as well as many other Championships. For more information on Twin Works Factory, call Strohman at (843) 665-9255.
Reached by phone and asked to comment, Blashfield said, “Until my legal representation has completed the dissolution process, I have been advised not to comment on the situation.”
CMRA’s New Address And Phone Number
PO Box 123888
Ft. Worth, TX 76121
Phone: 817-377-1599
FAX: 817-377-1655
2003 WMRRA Boards Announced
From a press release issued by WMRRA:
The Washington Motorcycle Road Racing Association would like to welcome the new members of the 2003 Executive Board and Board of Directors:
Executive Board:
President: Joel Crabtree
1st VP: Jimmy Stewart
2nd VP: Mark Creager
3rd VP: April Brock
Secretary: Diane Thompson
Treasurer: John Muir
Novice Rep: Paul Gienau
Supersport Rep: Luke Gaylor
Superbike/GP Rep: Tyler Sandell
Vintage Rep: Duncan Craick
Board of Directors:
Kory Gill
Mark McGuire
Greg Zanghi
Briggs Willoughby
On Schwantz, Roberts And Hopkins At Sepang
From a press release issued by Suzuki:
TWO CHAMPIONS, ONE ROOKIE CLOSE FIRST FOUR-STROKE CHAPTER
Team Suzuki HQ, Edenbridge, England. November 20th 2002
The first chapter in the life of Suzuki’s new-this-year prototype four-stroke Grand Prix racer – the 200-plus horsepower GSV-R – was closed in fitting style in Malaysia in the fortnight after the bike’s last race, when racing legend Kevin Schwantz joined the factory teamsters for final tests.
Also in action was 2000 World Champion Kenny Roberts Jr., looking forward to his fifth year with the factory Suzuki team, and fellow-American John Hopkins, a four-stroke first-timer who will be Kenny’s team-mate in 2003.
Roberts (29) is fresh from the 2002 season, a year of on-track development of the all-new machine, in which a path of steady improvement from raw prototype at the first races took him to the top-three rostrum in Brazil at the other end of the season.
Teenager Hopkins (19) had just completed his first GP season after a rapid rise through US racing. Riding a 500cc two-stroke, “Hopper” was far and away top newcomer, with a string of points-scoring rides.
1993 World Champion Schwantz (38) was officially at the tests to gain impressions of the exciting new GSV-R for major US monthly magazine Cycle World. Such was the legendary Suzuki star’s speed, however, that he also found himself acting as consultant to the factory engineers.
“Revvin’ Kevin” rode for Suzuki throughout an astounding racing career, which started with a blaze of glory in US Superbikes, then took him to legendary status in ten years as the swashbuckling star of the 500cc class. Schwantz won the World Championship in 1993, and racked up 25 GP wins in spectacular style, putting him in the top five of all-time GP winners.
The major purpose of the three-day tests, aside from introducing Hopkins to his new machine, was to assess a further evolution to the chassis, and to finalise data on other aspects. All this information will be added to that gathered in the racing season, to be built in to next year’s Mk2 version of the 200mph GSV-R. This will take the exciting V4 project from first prototype to fully fledged racer, with the clear aim of achieving race-winning and title-winning potential from the start the 2003 season.
“The weather wasn’t kind to us, but we expected that in Malaysia, and that was why we booked three days when we could have done what was needed in two. As it turned out, we used all three days,” said team manager Garry Taylor.
“Kenny worked hard assessing the new evolutionary chassis, and made good progress. We’re not releasing lap times, but they were very competitive.
“John was very impressive – taking it steadily and getting faster and faster throughout the tests. His team were particularly struck by his mature approach, considering he is still only 19. We’re all really looking forward to next year with him,” Taylor continued.
“It was fantastic to see Kevin on a GP bike again. He asked us at the start of the year, but he said he wanted a proper test, and he ran a couple of GP distances. He hasn’t lost his touch at all, and he was physically just as fit and vital as during his career. His times would have embarrassed a few other riders at the first day of qualifying for this year’s Malaysian GP.
“It was very useful to have some like Kevin’s insight, and we’d love to do it again some time. The factory and team engineers were also really interested in his opinions, which backed up Kenny’s. It all helps to clarify the requirements for next year’s machine, which will take the V4 concept a stage further,” said Taylor.
“It was hard on riders and team to have to test with the GP season barely over, but now we will take a break until January. The good thing is that the factory engineers now have a long spell to concentrate on incorporating everything we have learned into next year’s bike, which is already at an advanced stage on the drawing board,” the team manager concluded.
KENNY ROBERTS – LAP TIMES AND TIME ZONES: The tests were useful. The new chassis ideas seemed to be of benefit, although more in comfort of riding the bike, and in improving the overall race pace rather than individual lap times at this stage. We can work on that. Other bits and pieces we tested were nothing compared with what the next step’s gonna be. In the last part of the season we’ve been working hard on what we need for next year’s bike.
Kevin looked good and had a lot of fun on the bike. He was able to point out some things right away, that were the same as me. The factory engineers are pretty confident with the rider information they’re getting now. John was good and steady. He has a lot to learn, but for how young he is he did a great job.
Now I’m just trying to get used to getting back into a normal sleeping rhythm – for a couple of months now we’ve been changing time zones just about every week. I’ve a few things to do right up almost until Christmas, so I’ll be grabbing time off wherever I can in between.
JOHN HOPKINS – GETTING TO KNOW YOU: I thought my first ride on the Suzuki was really good. I went out and had fun and put in the laps. The bike was everything I’d expected, and it was really good to get back on Michelin tyres. I felt real confident on them right away, and that’s one of the big things I’m happy about. To ride, the bike is a little like a 500 in some ways, and in other ways more like my old Formula Xtreme machine (Hopkins won that title in 2001 on a race-kitted Suzuki GSX-R1000). The way it handles is like the GP bike, but it seemed quite a bit easier to ride than a 500. It gets the power to the ground more like the Formula Xtreme bike. And there’s a real lot of power.
I’m taking a break now – just being home is a holiday after my first season and all the travel. I’ll spend as much time as possible riding my motocross bike, and we’re also moving into a new house that was built while I was away during the season.
KEVIN SCHWANTZ – FUN AND FAST AGAIN, JUST LIKE BEFORE: On the way to Malaysia I was wondering why I was flying 14 hours just to ride a motorcycle. I have lots of them at home. After riding the GSV-R, I want to ride it again. I’d be prepared to fly to Japan to do it! I really liked it and had a good time riding it.
To me, I guess the biggest difference compared with the four-stroke 500 was how physical you have to be to change direction when you’re on the gas – like through S-bends. I guess that would be because of the extra mass of the crankshaft spinning up. The clutch didn’t seem a big drama to me, but at the same time I was lapping three seconds off. Whenever anybody rode my bike, I didn’t think much of their comments if they were a second or even half-a-second slower than me!
It has tons of power. I found if I would roll through the turns a gear higher than Kenny, with lower revs, it would immediately wheelie off the turn because of the torque. You have to use more revs to spin the rear or make the front light to finish off the corners.
At the moment I run my racing school several times a year in the US, work with the AMA, and also with Suzuki here with their AMA race team at all the national Superbike races. Next year I’m hoping to run some race shools at a track in Britain, and to attend a few GPs.
Pacific Track Time Releases 2003 Track Day Schedule
From a press release:
Pacific Track Time announces 2003 event schedule!
March 17 (Monday) – Streets of Willow Springs
March 31 (Monday) – WSIR (Big Track)
April 7 (Monday) – Thunderhill Park
April 14 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
April 15 (Tuesday) – Streets of Willow Springs
May 12 (Monday) – Thunderhill Park
May 13 (Tuesday) – Thunderhill Park
May 31 (Saturday) – Laguna Seca
June 9 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
September 1 (Labor Day Monday) – Thunderhill Park
September 2 (Tuesday) – Thunderhill Park
September 15 (Monday before Toyota 200) – WSIR Big Track
September 22 (Monday after Toyota 200) – Streets of Willow
October 13 (Monday before WSMC) – WSIR Big Track
Fall Laguna dates TBA soon
Order Your Umbrella Girl Now, And Generate What This Release Calls Male Energy
From a press release issued by UmbrellaGirls USA:
THE NEW GIRLS TO ADD GLAMOUR TO THE GRIDS
A new class of UmbrellaGirl have strutted into the American motorsports to liven up the grids of racetracks across the nation. UmbrellaGirls USA is a modeling/marketing agency with a difference, specializing in gorgeous women who have been selected specifically to work in the fast paced world of motorsports.
Each woman either works in the industry or has a passion for high-octane sports. Many of the UmbrellaGirls are bilingual, making them perfect for the likes of Laguna Seca’s World Superbike or the Indianapolis Formula 1.
When appearing on behalf of their own agency, the UmbrellaGirls will tote their own signature pink umbrellas and sport custom designed outfits ala World Superbike (with the exception of the West outfits used to launch Noriyuki Haga’s sponsorship). UmbrellaGirls USA will also design custom outfits for their clientele that will not only be attractive and eye catching, but will stand apart on the grid and in the paddock.
The motivation behind UmbrellaGirls USA came when owner, Ann Asiano, a civil litigation attorney with Bradley Curley Asiano & McCarthy and part owner of Ducati Triumph Yamaha of Marin in San Rafael, attended Misano’s WSB race earlier this year.
“The male energy of looking for the pretty girls, at Misano, was absolutely palpable,” says Ann. “I saw how the Europeans recognize the importance of having young, beautiful women associated with their motorsports events and how much it adds to the experience. I noticed there was not the same concentrated effort at the American WSB round and felt many teams and manufacturers had missed a golden opportunity to market themselves and their products.
“That is when I decided to introduce the first organized motorsports modeling and marketing agency, supplying women who are not only striking but who know the sport, are conversant in the products and can communicate with fans, teams and riders. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of young women that fit these criteria. The UmbrellaGirls models are very excited to support the motorsports industry and to convey their true enthusiasm for the sports and products they will represent.
“The fans will appreciate the added dimension UmbrellaGirls USA brings to the events and we also hope to serve our goal of raising female awareness within the industry.”
UmbrellaGirls USA specializes in: Models (both promotional, print and fashion), Hospitality Hostesses, Trophy and UmbrellaGirls.
They have made their official debut at the International Motorcycle Show in San Francisco at the San Mateo County Fairgrounds on November 8th-10th. Judging by the attention and the hits to the website, they will be a force in the industry.
The next official appearance of UmbrellaGirls USA will be at the Indy Dealer Expo 2003 in Indianapolis February 15-17th, 2003.
For more information call Ann Asiano direct at: 415-472-1965 or visit the website at: www.umbrellagirlsusa.com.
AMA Asks EPA To Consider Cost Of Emissions Regulations
From a press release issued by the AMA:
AMA: “Safety, Costs Important In Streetbike Emissions Rules”
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) told the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that its proposed new streetbike emissions standards must not compromise the safety of riders, dramatically increase costs, or reduce motorcycle performance.
In written comments submitted to the EPA on Nov. 20, the AMA also stressed that the proposed rules should continue to allow for the installation of after-market products, and allow owners to work on their own motorcycles.
“The AMA and the motorcycling community remain concerned that certain provisions in this (proposal) may result in fewer choices, higher prices and even tighter restrictions on future highway motorcycle models,” Edward Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, said in the comments. “Again, safety, cost, performance, continued availability of after-market products and self-maintenance are paramount in the minds of the motorcycle owners we represent.”
The AMA also disagreed with the EPA’s assertion that highway motorcycles are a “significant contributor” to air pollution. But the Association agreed with the EPA proposal to give small manufacturers of custom motorcycles more time than other motorcycle manufacturers to meet the new proposed emissions standards.
The EPA is considering implementing revised national emissions standards for new road motorcycles that would require those bikes to meet strict emissions standards beginning with 2006 models, although small manufacturers would have a 2008 deadline. The federal standards would be the same as those adopted by the state of California, but would go into effect two years after California’s standards.
A second tier of national emissions standards would be in place for 2010 models. It would be decided later whether small manufacturers would need to meet those standards.
Some motorcycles sold in the United States already meet California’s strict 2008 standard, which is the same as the proposed federal 2010 standard.
The new national emissions standards are expected to result in an increased use of fuel injection and catalytic converters on new motorcycles.
Moreland commented that catalytic converters, designed to operate at high temperatures, may not be appropriate for some motorcycles where the exhaust system is placed near the legs or feet of a rider or passenger, creating a possible safety hazard.
In addition, the AMA fears that new and replacement exhaust emission control components, coupled with the cost of repair and maintenance of complex equipment, will drive the cost of motorcycle ownership out of the reach of some owners.
“Increased costs at all levels of the motorcycling industry will result in fewer choices and reduced sales,” Moreland said. “This will result in economic hardship for many, especially small businesses involved in sales, services, and parts and accessories from non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) suppliers.”
The new California standard that begins with the 2004 model year, and the proposed federal standard that would take effect for the 2006 model year, require new motorcycles to emit no more than 1.4 grams per kilometer traveled of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, and 12 grams of carbon monoxide.
The California standard for 2008, which would also be the national standard beginning in 2010, sets a limit of 0.8 grams per kilometer of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides and 12 grams per kilometer of carbon monoxide.
The current federal emissions standards for street motorcycles are 5.0 grams of hydrocarbons and 12 grams of carbon monoxide per kilometer traveled.
The EPA is accepting written comments on its proposed street motorcycle emissions rules until Jan. 7. You can e-mail comments to [email protected], or go to the Rapid Response Center at the AMA website at www.AMADirectlink.com to send comments. You can see the proposed rules, and the entire text of Moreland’s comments, in the “Protecting Your Right to Ride” part of the website.
Another Company Accepting Race Support Resumes
From a press release:
BRP, the U.S. importer of Champion Equipment, is currently accepting racer resumes for the 2003 season.
For more information visit www.fastbikes.us or call 866.462.7770.
BRP RACER SUPPORT TEAM
And The Rain In Spain Also Falls On The Ducati Desmosedici
From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:
DUCATI CORSE PRESS INFORMATION
Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)
Wednesday 20 November 2002
DUCATI DESMOSEDICI TESTING AT JEREZ CONCLUDES WITH MORE BAD WEATHER
Bad weather again affected Ducati Corse testing today at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit in Spain. The Italian manufacturer, which will make its MotoGP debut in 2003, had planned a three-day session this week at the venue for next May’s Spanish round of the championship, but the final day was also disturbed by rain.
The unusually uncertain weather conditions in the south of Spain in this period led to a change in the programme, allowing Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss to test the Ducati Desmosedici in wet-weather set-up, and although both riders put in few laps today, numerous positive indications emerged on a technical level.
While Loris lapped with the ‘Four Pulse’ version of the Italian V4 engine, Troy tested the Desmosedici with the ‘Twin Pulse’ layout. The Australian established a good feeling with this version of the power-unit, which adapts well to low-grip conditions. The two riders will continue the next tests with both engine versions.
Track Technical Director Corrado Cecchinelli commented: “Unfortunately we haven’t been very lucky in the last two days but day 1 gave us a series of positive indications. Loris lapped quite well on a track he loves, while for Troy it was his first time out on a new circuit. Today both riders did very few laps due to the bad weather but despite this we look at the three-day ession here at Jerez as positive”.
Ducati Corse is unable to supply any images or rider comments of Loris Capirossi until the end of 2002.
Apparently Even The Barber Museum Glass Contractor Reads This Site
FIRST PERSON/OPINION: This just in, via e-mail: Regarding the article written on 11/18/02 by Michael Hannas about his visit to the Barber Motorsports Park: The facility is everything, and more, as he stated. But, as the Project Manager for the glass contractor on the Museum I feel I must clear up the comment about the glass replacement on the Museum Building. “All” of the glass was not replaced. Only about 15 pieces of glass were installed as Mock-up pieces of glass for the sole purpose of letting the people with the Barber organization view it before ordering the huge quantity of glass required for the job. It is true that the mock-up glass was not up to their expectations. Another glass supplier was brought in that has produced acceptable glass and we are installing the glass now. Just wanted to put an end to one of the many over-exaggerated rumors coming out of that project. Scott Padgitt Alabaster, Alabama
Updated Post: Blashfield And Strohman Dissolve MB Motorsports
Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
By David Swarts
MB Motorsports co-owners Frank Strohman and Matt Blashfield have decided to end their two-year partnership and concentrate on their separate businesses.
“He’s got to concentrate on his sign business (Blashfield Signs/Communications),” Strohman told Roadracingworld.com Wednesday from his shop in Fayetteville, North Carolina. “He has a lot at stake there, and he’s been real busy this past year and hasn’t had much time to devote to MB Motorsports, as he would like to. So he basically just wanted to get out.
“Basically our philosophies were a little bit different,” continued Strohman. “I was more racing oriented and wanted to do the racing and the R&D (research and development) through the racing, and I think Matt wanted to go in the direction of more marketing for parts and stuff like that. So you know, just a little bit of difference of philosophy, but more than anything else he had to have the time to concentrate on his business.
“He does a lot of military work (for the U.S. Army post, Fort Bragg). He hasn’t had the opportunity to travel with the team and help like he kind of wanted to. So he just needed to back out. I think he’s going to do some of the little regional races, he teaches at that Learning Curves school and I think that’s about all he has time for right now.”
With several National road racing Championships as a rider and a tuner to his credit, Strohman plans to continue doing engine building, chassis tuning and race-prep work for lightweight Twins under a new company name, Twin Works Factory, and says he will start expanding into big-bore Twins. “I figured that we’d go ahead and start another company and have that company carry the race team through next year and so on,” said Strohman. “So nothing’s really changed except the name, and it will be a sole proprietorship. We’re busy getting a website together to put up right now.
“Nothing’s really changed except for one less partner. Everything else, all the services remain the same, same race team, same people on the race team, nothing’s changed, except the name. Bradley (Champion) will be riding. Bobby Fisher is coming back next year; so he’ll be back. So between Bradley and Bobby and backing them up with Zoran and Bernie Huntt, we ought to be pretty damn good to go.”
MB Motorsports won the 2002 SV650 Suzuki Cup Championship with Bradley Champion and the 2001 CCS Lightweight Superbike National Championship with Robert Fisher, also on a Suzuki SV650, as well as many other Championships. For more information on Twin Works Factory, call Strohman at (843) 665-9255.
Reached by phone and asked to comment, Blashfield said, “Until my legal representation has completed the dissolution process, I have been advised not to comment on the situation.”