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Team New England Motorsports II Wins Formula USA NRRS 200-mile Team Challenge

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc. By David Swarts Team New England Motorsports II’s Chad Healy and Jim Bonner won the 21-entry “Loudon 200” Formula USA NRRS 200-mile Team Challenge on a Dunlop-equipped Yamaha YZF-R6 Friday at New Hampshire International Speedway. Healy and 50-year-old Bonner ran out of gas once, coasted to the pits, made only one other pit stop for fuel, completed 123 laps of the 1.6-mile road course and won by 35 seconds over second-place GMD Computrack/Seacoast. The race was stopped short of its scheduled 200-mile distance when its 2-hour, 45-minute time limit was reached at 5:50 p.m. Eastern Time. GMD Computrack/Seacoast’s Michael Martire, David Ruocco, Charles Sandoz and Peter Kates rode one, 40-minute shift each on their Dunlop D208GP-fitted ex-John Hopkins Suzuki GSX-R750. After the race, GMD Computrack – Boston’s Kates said their race was uneventful. Taking third overall and the GT Lights class win 67 seconds behind the winners was Team All-Star Pepsi’s John Lounsbury, Malcolm Bradsher and Rick Douchette. Riding a Supersport-spec Suzuki SV650 shod with Dunlop DOT-labeled tires, Team All-Star Pepsi said their small Suzuki was the perfect bike for going fast on the tight, technical Loudon track. New England Motorsports’ number one team of Gus Holcomb and Mark Reynolds lost the overall race lead on lap 28 when Holcomb crashed in turn 11. Holcomb picked up the team’s lightly damaged Suzuki GSX-R600 and finished his shift but the team could do no better than fourth overall, one lap down to Team New England Motorsports II. Fifth overall, Team Daemon/Bikeworx’s Galen Miller and Paul Luevano won the GTU class with a Honda CBR600F4 on Pirelli DOT-labeled rubber. Loudon 200 Provisional Overall Results: 1. Team New England Motorsports II, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTO, 123 laps; 2. GMD Computrack/Seacoast, Suzuki GSX-R750, GTO, -35.217 seconds; 3. Team All-Star Pepsi, Suzuki SV650, GT Lights, -67.812 seconds; 4. New England Motorsports, Suzuki GSX-R600, GTO, -1 lap; 5. Team Daemon/Bikeworx, Honda CBR600F4, GTU, -30.259 seconds; 6. Team Hooters/Orient Express Racing, Suzuki GSX-R600, GTU, -3 laps; 7. Crowbar Racing, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTU, -7.043 seconds; 8. Team Extreme, Yamaha YZF-R1, GTO, -8.784 seconds; 9. Starnet/4&6 Racing, Kawasaki ZX-6R, GTU, -17.529 seconds; 10. T Bone Racing, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTU, -26.618 seconds

Updated Post: Eric Wood Sets The Pace In Formula USA Practice At Loudon

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Sportbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Buell XB9R, 1:14.034
2. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.059
3. Shawn Higbee, Buell XB9R, 1:14.226
4. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.486
5. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.491
6. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.595
7. Craig Connell, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.873
8. Don Canet, Buell XB9R, 1:15.443
9. Matt Wait, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:15.963
10. Ray Bowman, 1:15.963
11. Jeff Wood, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:16.181
12. Matthew Silva, 1:17.009
13. Cory West, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:17.378
14. William Fray, 1:17.407
15. Peter Ribaudo, 1:17.429
16. Jim Lester, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:17.475
17. Jeff LaPointe, 1:17.721
18. David Schweitzer, 1:17.758
19. Craig Recore, Honda CBR600, 1:17.762
20. Richard Kjar, 1:17.969

Friday Morning Unlimited Superbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.925
2. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.250
3. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.367
4. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.418
5. Pit Stop Motorsports, 1:13.556*
6. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.587
7. Des Conboy, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.958
8. Matthew Silva, 1:14.349
9. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:14.473
10. Michael Himmelsbach, Aprilia RSV1000R, 1:14.475
11. Darian Polach, Honda CBR929RR, 1:14.723
12. Matt Wait, Honda CBR954RR, 1:15.210
13. Joe Spina, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.426
14. George Tarricone, 1:16.104
15. George Jones, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.208
16. Bob Blanchette, Kawasaki ZX-9R, 1:16.591
17. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.990
18. Robet Belensky, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:17.271
19. John Madden, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:17.640
20. Senen Vega, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:17.760

Friday Afternoon Unlimited Superbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.380
2. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.569
3. Charles Chouinard, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.696
4. Pit Stop Motorsports, 1:13.148*
5. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.171
6. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.205
7. Michael Himmelsbach, Aprilia RSV1000R, 1:13.271
8. Des Conboy, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.330
9. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.775
10. Matthew Silva, 1:13.875
11. Darian Polach, Honda CBR929RR, 1:13.967
12. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:14.046
13. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:14.133
14. Matt Wait, Honda CBR954RR, 1:14.922
15. Joe Spina, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.108
16. Michael Niksa, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.314
17. Chris Rockwell, 1:15.665
18. George Tarricone, 1:15.907
19. George Jones, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.568
20. Bob Blanchette, Kawasaki ZX-9R, 1:16.620

*The Pit Stop Motorsports lap times are believed to be the times of Arclight Suzuki’s Craig Connell. The confusion was caused by a crash of the timing and scoring computer Friday morning.

Buell Lightning & Thunderbike Practice Times:

1. Bryan Bemisderfer, Buell 1200, 1:18.361
2. Jerry Wood, Ducati 944, 1:18.854
3. Richie Morris, Buell 1200, 1:19.086
4. Jeff Johnson, Buell 1200, 1:19.264
5. Clint Brotz, Buell 1200, 1:20.672
6. David White, Suzuki SV650, 1:21.001
7. Rick Patrolia, Suzuki SV650, 1:21.281
8. Sam Rozynski, Buell 1200, 1:22.125
9. Bart Chamberlain, Kawasaki EX500, 1:22.155
10. Galen Miller, MuZ 720, 1:22.773
11. Steve Luxem, Buell 1200, 1:23.569
12. Malcolm Bradsher, Suzuki SV650, 1:23.665
13. Carl Sargent, Suzuki SV650, 1:24.038
14. Alan Quin, Suzuki SV650, 1:24.117
15. Michael De Lage, 1:24.309
16. Glen Piro, Kawasaki EX500, 1:24.685
17. Jeff Harding, Buell 1200, 1:24.704
18. Sean Byrnes, 1:24.733
19. Patrick Wakefield, 1:24.761
20. Charles Brighenti, 1:25.241

125cc & 250cc Grand Prix Practice Times:

1. Chris Reynolds, 1:16.952
2. Jerry Wood, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.039
3. Gregor Halinda, 1:17.180
4. Todd Puckett, 1:17.193
5. Steve Scott, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.260
6. Tony Iannarelli, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.551
7. Brian Kcraget, Honda RS125, 1:17.830
8. Dale Greenwood, Jr., Honda RS125, 1:18.539
9. Jim Bonner, Yamaha TZ250, 1:19.059
10. Scott Moxey, 1:19.463
11. Joe Ford, Yamaha TZ125, 1:19.604
12. David Arvidson, Honda RS125, 1:19.645
13. Rick Moreaun, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.456
14. Timothy O’Conner, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.654
15. Daniel Rios, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.985
16. unknown, 1:21.230
17. Richard Gosselin, Honda RS125, 1:22.025
18. Sean Wray, 1:22.123
19. Bill Cole, Honda RS125, 1:22.260
20. Tim Courts, 1:22.772

Rossi Sets The Pace In MotoGP Practice At The Gran Premi Marlboro De Catalunya

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:45.693
2. Loris Capirossi, Honda NSR500, 1:46.062
3. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:46.175
4. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:46.341
5. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:46.358
6. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:46.530
7. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:46.674
8. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.727
9. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:46.946
10. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:47.032
11. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.117
12. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.326
13. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.383
14. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.386
15. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:47.647
16. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.662
17. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:48.070
18. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:48.278
19. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:48.639
20. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:48.761
21. Alex Hofmann, Yamaha YZR500, 1:50.782

Pro Thunder Champion Tom Montano To Appear At Fund Raiser

From a press release issued by Dave Neal:

The Full Circle Program runs several residential houses and a farm in Dogtown, CA (Marin County) for abused boys. This program has been very successful in turning around the lives of boys who, in all probability, were on the fast track to prison. The program has been so successful in helping direct these young lads to productive lives that is has been studied by many others who are working to accomplish the same goals.

However, like most charitable programs, it is in constant need of additional financial support. Toward this end, The Sunday Morning Ride has adopted this program via an annual fundraiser. Participation in this event not only gives the attending motorcyclists the fun and satisfaction of supporting this most worthwhile cause, but also helps improve the image of motorcyclists in the eyes of the community.

Please use any or all of the following information as you see fit to help us generate an even bigger turn out this year in support of Seventh Annual Full Circle Ride.

On Sunday, August 12, 2001, nearly 170 Sunday Morning Riders attended the fund raising breakfast at the Full Circle Program farm at Dogtown in West Marin. Most of the riders left the Arco Station at Tam Junction (just off the Hwy 1 exit from Hwy 101 in Mill Valley) at the usual 7:30 departure time for The Sunday Morning Ride. They were joined by approximately 80 to 90 more riders who arrived at the Dogtown location on Highway 1 over the next two hours. Many attendees were accidental participants in that despite coverage in City Bike, Road Racing World, Friction Zone, Norton Notice and posters and fliers in motorcycle dealerships, they were unaware of the event and simply set out to enjoy Highway 1 on a sunny Sunday morning.

Attending riders had the opportunity to meet local motorcycle hero, star of “On Any Sunday,” and former Grand National Champion, Mert Lawwill who autographed photos and spoke to the assembled riders. Kurtis Roberts donated a set of leathers that were auctioned at the event. For their $10 or more donations, riders were treated to a magnificent breakfast spread consisting of coffee, pancakes, sausage, granola, yogurt, sweet rolls, bananas, oranges and melons. Commemorative T-shirts picturing Kurtis Roberts on his number one plate 600 Honda and sponsored by various industry supporters were given to all who attended.

Bay Area motorcycle dealers and accessory manufacturers supported the event with over $5000 worth of merchandise and gift certificates, which were raffled off after breakfast. During and after the raffle there was a great deal of swapping going on between winners as they traded one prize for another of more interest. Munroe Motors donated a 2001 CR50 Husky mini motocross bike, which was also raffled off. Amazingly, the bike raffle was won by a guy with 4-year-old twins!

More than $7500 was raised for the Full Circle Program. The money was used to equip the farm with a complete computer lab with all peripherals including 10 computers, printer, and satellite internet connection, equipment that the program wanted but could not otherwise afford. The boys at the farm learned that there are a lot more people outside the program who care about them. The participating motorcyclists enjoyed a beautiful day both on the roads of West Marin and at the farm. Nevertheless, 80 to 90% of the riders who attended were current or former Sunday Morning Ride regulars. For this year’s event, we hope to see a lot more new faces. This is too much fun to be enjoyed by so few.

Announcement:

The organizers (whoever they may be) of the Sunday Morning Ride for Full Circle will appreciate any and all support you can provide for the seventh annual event. The ride will take place on August 25, 2002. Riders can join with other riders at the Arco station at Tam Junction (just off Hwy 101 at the Hwy 1 North exit in Mill Valley). Riders will be leaving starting at 7:30 (the regular departure time for The Sunday Morning Ride) and continuing until 10:30 (to arrive by 11:00 AM). This annual fundraising event benefits the Full Circle Program. Full Circle provides residential and counseling services for boys who have been abused or seriously neglected by the persons who should have been caring for them. Kids who may have been on the straight track to prison are turned around in a loving and caring environment that helps them to become productive and well adjusted members of society. All participants will receive a free T-shirt with Tom Montano’s picture on his Pro Thunder Championship winning 748 Ducati. Tom and his number one plate wearing Ducati will be present. He will sign autographs and answer questions about the bike and racing.

The event, which includes a great breakfast for a $10 donation, free T-shirt and a drawing for motorcycle accessories and discount coupons from local dealers, raised over $7,500 last year. We hope to top that amount this year. Last year local motorcycle dealers and shops contributed more than $5,000 worth of accessories and gift certificates. More than one rider left with $200 to $300 in motorcycle gear for his $10 to $20 investment in raffle tickets. All left with a feeling of having contributed to a very worthwhile cause. This year a 2002 Husky CR50R mini motocross bike donated my Munroe Motors in San Francisco will be raffled along with motorcycle accessories.

Breakfast and the drawings are held at the Full Circle farm in Dogtown on Hwy 1 about 1 mile north of Bolinas. We would like to encourage as many riders as possible to support this worthwhile event and take the opportunity to meet some of the boys in residence. It is also a great excuse to get out and enjoy the pleasures of Hwy 1 in Marin on a Sunday morning. Please invite 4 or 5 friends who would not otherwise be there to join you for the event. Let’s see if we can’t double last year’s turnout and funds raised!

Loris Capirossi On Provisional Pole At Catalunya, Rossi 4th, Roberts 5th, Hopkins 8th

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday MotoGP Qualifying Results:

1. Loris Capirossi, Honda NSR500, 1:45.451
2. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:45.532
3. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:45.619
4. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:45.787
5. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:45.842
6. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:45.923
7. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:45.948
8. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR-500, 1:45.967
9. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:46.057
10. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:46.187
11. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:46.245
12. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.264
13. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.328
14. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:46.506
15. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:46.806
16. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:46.810
17. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.839
18. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.571
19. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.931
20. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:48.405
21. Alex Hofmann, Yamaha YZR500, 1:49.063

MotoGP Team Press Releases From Catalunya

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From Telefonica MoviStar Suzuki:

Team Telefónica MoviStar Suzuki rider Sete Gibernau was a stunning second fastest in today’s first timed practice for Sunday’s Catalunyan GP, with team-mate Kenny Roberts less than four tenths slower, on the second row of the provisional starting grid.

Both riders enjoyed the benefit of not only the latest generation of Michelin tyres, which they are using for the first time, but also a series of engine upgrades – part of the continual programme of development to the new Suzuki GSV-R, youngest of the three new-generation Japanese 990cc MotoGP four-strokes.

The power-up engine improvements include a new Mk3 crankcase, with reduced internal friction, and revised engine control mapping for the ECU. But engine designer Kunio Arase, at the track along with fellow factory engineers and factory rider Akira Ryo, was anxious to stress this is just another interim stage. Development is constant, and the factory is determined to continue the rapid rate of improvement already achieved in the bike’s first five races. Ryo, second in Japan and a wild card entry for this GP, placed 19th today, his first ride on the GSV-R on Michelin tyres. He uses Dunlops racing the bike at home in Japan.

Held in blazing sunshine at the 4.727km circuit outside Barcelona, the first session was very close. Gibernau was just eight hundredths slower than provision pole qualifier Loris Capirossi, and the first 13 riders were within one second of Capirossi’s time.

SETE GIBERNAU – Second Position, 1:45.532

“I had one or two small problems this morning, so I’m happy with the time this afternoon. You have to remember that it was only one lap, and Loris (Capirossi) helped me a lot, because I was following right behind him. The whole GSV-R package is becoming much better. The Michelins are part of the package, and we have to thank them for the new tyres. I’m hoping to have no problems tomorrow, and to pick up my pace to do strings of fast laps.”

KENNY ROBERTS Jr. – Sixth Position, 1:45.923

“I think my level is probably the closest we’ve been to the other bikes all year, especially in terms of race settings. I’m pretty comfortable, and able to do consistent laps. My time came on the fifth or sixth lap, and using race tyres. It wasn’t just one lap, tucked in, balls out and hope you survive the lap, which is what I’ve had to do a couple of times this year. The new tyres are a big jump – the biggest jump since 1999, when I changed to Michelins for the first time. The new engine also seems to be an improvement. There are a couple of kilometres more top speed and it’s a little stronger mid-range.”

KUNIO ARASE: Engine Designer

“This is the third generation of crankcase, designed to reduce further the mechanical losses. The exact way we do it is a secret; the result is a little more horsepower through the rev range. This is the first race for the new crankcases, but they have undergone extensive reliability testing in Japan. The other difference here is a refinement to the engine management mapping, which improves the performance in back-shifting by reducing engine braking. We are continuing work in that area, but the main priority at the moment is increased engine power. This engine is improved, but I don’t believe by enough. I can’t say when we will have more power, but it will be during this season.”

WARREN WILLING: Technical Advisor

“The new crankcases and mapping are another small step, and the bike is more consistent now in engine braking. The 2002 tyres are definitely more consistent, with better steering characteristics. We’re playing catch-up to an extent with getting the bike settings right for the tyres, but not with choice – like all the Michelin teams we had a choice of two this morning, and having established which variation we prefer we then got another choice in that direction. On average, the bigger footprint of the rear tyre allows softer compounds. It’s a definite improvement.”

RYO SETTLES IN

Japanese Superbike Champion Akira Ryo made a steady start to his three-stop MotoGP campaign in Catalunya, taking 18th place in the first qualifying session before Sunday’s race. Ryo’s time of 1.47.931 was just 2.468 slower than the provisional pole position time of 1.45.451 set by Italian rider Loris Capirossi,and he is confident that he can improve even further as he settles in to his first ever race outside of Japan.

Suzuki gained three ‘wild-card’ MotoGP entries for Ryo, starting with this weekend’s race in Catalunya, then moving on to the next round at Assen in the Netherlands and finally Donington Park in the UK.

Ryo gave the new GSV-R four-stroke race machine a sensational second place debut at the first round of the new MotoGP series back in April, when he took a home wildcard entry at Suzuka, leading for most of the race before losing out to World Champion Valantino Rossi in the closing laps.

Ryo’s three-race MotoGP campaign is designed to accelerate the on-going development programme of the new Suzuki GSV-R machine alongside the official factory MotoGP Telefonica Movistar Suzuki team riders, Kenny Roberts and Sete Gibernau. Ryo’s machine is identical to the other two Suzuki pilot’s bikes, but he is racing in the factory’s official blue and white livery.

Commenting on his first qualifying session, Ryo said, “All the testing and racing I have done so far on the GSV-R has been on Dunlop tyres and so I am still getting used to the different feel of the Michelin’s that we are racing on here. We have played with a number of different settings today and I think that we have made some progress. Tomorrow, if the weather holds, we will make more progress I am certain.”

More, from Yamaha:

Checa set for a front row start

Round: 6 – Catalunya MotoGP
Circuit: Catalunya
Date: 14 June 2002
Temp: 32°C
Weather: Sunny

Sweltering heat greeted the 21-bike contingent for the opening qualifying session of the Catalan MotoGP, held June 14. Carlos Checa (Marlboro Yamaha Team) set the early benchmark for his home event before finishing the day with the fourth fastest time. The Spaniard held provisional pole position until a five-way bullfight began between Loris Capirossi (Honda, 1’45.451), Sete Gibernau (Suzuki, 1’45.532), Tohru Ukawa (Honda, 1’45.619), Checa (1’45.787) and Valentino Rossi (Honda, 1’45.842) – the quintet finishing in that order with only 0.391 seconds separating them.

Max Biaggi’s (Marlboro Yamaha Team, 1’45.948) best put him seventh fastest – 0.497 seconds off pole, and only 0.025 seconds behind sixth-placed Kenny Roberts (Suzuki, 1’45.923). The YZR-M1 mounted Italian was closely followed by the ever-improving John Hopkins; the young American posting a 1’45.967 aboard the Red Bull Yamaha WCM YZR500 to be eighth fastest.

Norick Abe (Antena 3 Yamaha d’Antin, 1’46.264) completed day one in 12th, just ahead of Shinya Nakano (Gauloises Yamaha Tech 3, 1’46.328), while the most recent Red Bull Yamaha rider replacement, Alex Hofmann, completed the lineup in 21st with a 1’49.063.

Marlboro Yamaha Team

Carlos Checa 4th, 1’45.787:
“We’re very focused for this weekend, but so far we’re quite far from where we want to be. We had a few settings problems this morning and, although we worked hard to improve things this afternoon, we’ll need to make a few more changes for tomorrow. The heat means that everyone’s lap times aren’t fantastic, and while I wasn’t using a soft tyre at the end of the session, I was trying my maximum on my best lap. Tomorrow I’ll need the bike to keep rolling more easily through the corners, and I’ll also need better feeling on the corner exits. But compared to before, we’re okay. This was never a good track for us with the 500, but this bike already feels better here. Now we’re working to make sure it’s even better at the end of the weekend.”

Max Biaggi 7th, 1’45.948:
“We had a few little problems this afternoon, which held me back a bit. The power didn’t seem to be consistent, sometimes I would lose power out of a corner, other times it would be fine. But I’m not too worried; it’s always better to have your problems in practice rather than in the race! All being well, we should have more time to work on settings tomorrow. We started this morning with a base setting we came up with at Valencia, then we made a small change for this afternoon and now we need to further adapt the bike to this track, mostly working on the front-end. There’s more to do but I feel we should be okay here for race day.”

Red Bull Yamaha WCM

John Hopkins 8th, 1’45.967:
“I think half a second is the closest to pole position that I’ve been so far this year. I’m really happy with my performance throughout that whole session, but I know I can still improve as I made a few small mistakes, even on my best lap. We also think we can modify the set-up to improve the feedback too, which should help.

Hopkins closes in on the leaders
“The grip levels weren’t great, I think it’s a combination of the high temperatures and the circuit beginning still a little dirty. I focused on finding a race set-up rather than just a fast lap. I only put on a softer rear in the last few minutes and I couldn’t have timed it better. I got out just behind Capirossi and Gibernau when they put in their fast laps and it was great to see what they can do.”

Alex Hofmann 21st, 1’49.063:
“I’m just trying to get to know the bike at the moment. I focused on learning how the bike will respond with each chassis modification, this way I have a better understanding of its limitations, and mine. Feel is the main thing I’m looking for, and we’ve got some ideas to help improve things in that area, and then we’ll look at improving the grip.”

Antena 3 Yamaha d’Antin

Norick Abe 12th, 1’46.264:
“It is so hot out there today! These are very difficult conditions to be riding in, not only for the rider but the bike too. When it is this hot the bikes tend to lose power, and the tyres lose grip. I did try a softer tyre in the last few minutes, and it help to better my time, but it wasn’t enough to make much of a difference to my position. We have some things we’d like to try with the front set-up, so that the bike turns in better, and then we’d like to look at improving the drive off the turns.”

Pere Riba 18th, 1’47.571:
“I’m quite happy with that, even if I am still only 18th. The time is not that much better than what I did during the test earlier in the year, partly because of the high temperatures, but I’m feeling much more comfortable now at this speed. I can feel what the bike is doing where before I was just guessing. The test we recently had in Valencia really helped out in this regard, as track time is just what I’ve been needing all along.”

Gauloises Yamaha Tech 3

Shinya Nakano 13th, 1’46.328:
“We concentrated on one bike this afternoon, using a chassis geometry based on what we ran here last year. It seems to have been a good choice through the medium and high-speed sections of the circuit, but I’m lacking some feel from the front in the last stage. Tomorrow we’ll try a few things that should improve the front-end feel. I hope that will be the case, for my fan club at least, which has come all the way from Japan to watch me race this weekend.”

Olivier Jacque 21st, 1’49.063:
“I just can’t seem to get the feedback I need from the front of the bike, which is crucial around here for a fast time. Combine the lack of feel with the limited grip we have in these conditions and I just don’t have the confidence to push hard. The crash I had didn’t help either. It was only my second lap on a new set of tyres and I wasn’t even pushing hard. We’ll have a good think about it tonight and hopefully come out fighting tomorrow.”

Even more, from Red Bull Yamaha:

HOT LAP HOPKINS ON THE FASTEST 2 STROKE YAMAHA

John Hopkins the 19 year old American rookie has put in another exceptional performance in Friday’s qualifying session in Barcelona aboard the Red Bull Yamaha YZR 500. Finishing 8th in the scorching 34 degree temperature, Hopper is very pleased with his performance in this his sixth MotoGP event of his career.

Hopkins performance today, positions him as the fastest 2 stroke Yamaha in the session and sees him again in Fridays Top Ten list, a feat he accomplished for the first time at the Italian GP, 2 weeks ago.

Only a mere 0.125 seconds behind the reigning World Champion, Valentino Rossi (in 5th position), Hopper clocked the Fastest Top Speed for a 2 stroke Yamaha at 306.6km, ahead of his nearest 2 stroke Yamaha rival Shinya Nakano.

Newcomer to the team, German Alex Hofmann, made history today as the first German ever to ride a 500cc Yamaha 2 stroke. Hofmann improved on this mornings practice session by 1.719 seconds and with each lap, the young 22-year-old begins to understand the performance of the YZR 500.

This weekend, the Red Bull Yamaha riders line up as the 2 youngest riders on the MotoGP grid.


JOHN HOPKINS – 8th – 1’45.967

“I’m getting more comfortable on the bike now, I’m learning to understand it more at each race and I am working in really well with the team and my mechanics.

“I’m pretty happy with my performance today and I feel like I found my rhythm fast here. I had a full two dry days testing here in March and I know about the track straight up so I can concentrate on the bike from first thing Friday morning.

“We have a lot of work to do tonight, to select the tyres for the heat here; we will be working on the grip and our race set-up. I am focusing on the beginning of the race and the start so I can get stronger here. I want to be on the second row on Sunday and I will do all I can to achieve that.”


ALEX HOFMANN – 21st – 1’49.063

“I am feeling better on the bike with each lap and getting more comfortable on the 500 and I am making progress. We are fighting for grip on the rear in these hot conditions and I have been sliding a lot in this session and going sideways. So we have to make some changes for the set-up for tomorrow to improve this.”


Peter Clifford – Team Manager

“Just another step forward for John and its incredible to see how steady and sure his progress is. We have to thank Dunlop for the work they are putting in, which is helping with John’s progress.

“It’s only Alex’s second day riding with the Team and it was another professional and intelligent session as he gets use to the motorcycle.”

More, from Aprilia:

Laconi and RS Cube make third provisional row with ninth time in qualifying practice.

With 9th quickest time in the qualifying sessions today, Laconi has placed the RS Cube on the third provisional row for the start, just 6 tenths from the (again provisional) pole scored by Loris Capirossi. Régis’s time, 1’46.057, was clocked during the final sorties in this afternoon’s session after the rider mounted qualifying tyres. The minimal gap from today’s leader shows that yet another step forward has been made in developing the Cube, and that the tests at Mugello straight after the Italian GP made a yet another considerable improvement. The qualifying tyres gave some good results, and tomorrow’s work will concentrate on choosing the race tyres and testing them over a distance.


# 55 Regis Laconi – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 9th – 1’46.057

“We worked hard this morning with the bike in qualifying configuration. I tried a front tyre that gave a great sensation and let me break harder and take the corners faster. So I’m feeling quite relaxed and happy with the Cube in “qualifying mode”: now we’ve got to work on the best race configuration. The distance from today’s best time is really minimal: just 6 tenths. I think that says a lot about the bike’s potential. And that’s not all: in terms of speed, we made third fastest today, and we’ve only got two Honda four-strokes in front of us. We’ve sure go the power. Tomorrow, we’ll sort out the fine details to make sure we have a good race. The track’s full of potholes, which are annoying but I’ve got the secret for solving the problem: I’ll just go faster!”.


Second quickest time, first provisional row for Marco “Macio” Melandri in sweltering Catalunya

Blistering heat in the 250 practice sessions too. Tough work for Marco Melandri, but certainly not easy for the others either. Once the Ravenna-born rider was satisfied with the set-up of his Aprilia RSW 250, he turned his full attention to the choice of tyres for a race which is going to be truly gruelling due to the extreme weather conditions, with over 30 degrees in the shade and almost 44 on the tarmac.

A number of different tyre solutions were tried out and, in the end, the best choice turned out to be a slightly softer mix than had been used at the start of the session.



# 3 Marco Melandri – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 2nd – 1’48.490

“Taking into account the scorching heat, we started the session using really hard tyres, but then towards the end – just 10 minutes before time was up – we tried out some softer ones we’d used in other races. Things got better and I went off to see if I could get provisional pole. It’s a pity De Puniet managed to go faster – I very nearly made it. The slightly softer tyres seem much less easy to handle when you need to control the bike in a skid, while harder ones don’t have this problem. Now we’ll need to see if the choice we’ve made can last out an entire race. Tomorrow we’ll be doing all the various tests. If the heat keeps up like this on Sunday, it’s the tyres that are going to make the difference. Otherwise, I’m very pleased with the set-up of the bike and I’m fully confident things’ll go well in the race the day after tomorrow.”




Hayes To Ride Again This Weekend

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Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Josh Hayes, injured during practice for the AMA National at California Speedway in April, will return to the track for the first time this weekend, during a WERA National Endurance Series and National Challenge Series event at Talladega Gran Prix Raceway in Talladega, Alabama.

Hayes will ride a Suzuki GSX-R600.

He hopes to return to AMA competition at The Colonel’s Brainerd International Raceway June 27-30.

Arai Introduces Smaller Helmet Sizes, For Women & Kids

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From a press release:


ARAI INTRODUCES
NEW XXS AND XXXS SIZES
FOR WOMEN AND YOUNGER RIDERS


(Daytona, FL) Arai has added new, smaller XXS and XXXS sizes to its Quantum/f full-face model. The move acknowledges the ever-growing number of women riders, and also the increased number of younger riders drawn to Arai helmets, based on the company’s latest research. The new XXS size is for heads measuring 51-52cm in circumference; XXXS for those measuring 49-50cm.



According to Bruce Porter, Arai’s Marketing Manager, the necessity of Arai introducing smaller sizes for female riders came from his own experience. “I attend all of the wintertime consumer shows, where we are constantly measuring riders’ heads, helping them learn how to get the proper helmet size and shape for their particular heads, and for several years I’ve been measuring women motorcyclists who have head sizes as small as 47cm, much smaller than our 53-54cm XS size. I mentioned this to Mr. Arai at a meeting at Arai Japan’s headquarters, along with figures on the ever-growing number of new women riders. I further reported that it had been my experience that almost all petite female consumers had distinctly round-shaped heads and that consequently they would fit our Quantum series shell shape very well.

“Mr. Arai responded to this unique need almost immediately by ordering the construction of the XXS and XXXS sizes in the Quantum/f.”

As if the women’s market wasn’t enough reason for Arai to move to smaller sizes, the company reported that its research over the past several years has shown a definite trend toward more younger riders buying Arais than ever before.

Arai’s Quantum series’ features include the company’s LRS tool-less shield removal mechanism, Arai’s unique “Double Delta-2” ventilation system, the advanced FFS “FreeFlow System” (whose cheekpad design, neck roll, and extended pull-down chinbar spoiler all combine to further reduce wind turbulence while increasing the exhaust of hot air from the face area), and removable, replaceable cheekpads in optional thicknesses for more personal comfort and fit (an Arai innovation now used by most other helmet makers).

Also, like all Arai Helmets, the Quantum series benefits from Arai’s handmade quality, exhaustive attention to detail, and multiple-density foam interiors that are still hand-fit into place, all combining to provide a level of comfort and fit so special that they have helped Arai just earn its fourth consecutive J.D. Power & Associates Award as the highest-ranking motorcycle helmet in customer satisfaction.*

Arai’s Quantum series helmets are available in sizes XXXS through XXL. MSRPs range from $426.95 to $533.95 depending on color and design.

Hofmann Is First German To Race Factory YZR500, And Hopper Says He’s Ready

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From a press release issued by Red Bull Yamaha:

HOFMANN MAKES HISTORY AT CATALUNYA GP

German Alex Hofmann makes racing history this weekend at the Catalunya GP in Spain aboard the Red Bull Yamaha YZR500. Hofmann, who has recently celebrated his 22nd birthday, has the honor this weekend of being the first German rider ever to race on a Factory 500 Yamaha.


Alex Hofmann
“I am the first German ever to compete on a Factory 500 Yamaha as well as the first German to race in the new MotoGP class so it’s history in the making this weekend. I am so happy to be here and to be given this opportunity. I am here to have fun and ride the bike at one of my favorite tracks. I am racing in the best class, with the best riders on the best bikes and I will be pushing myself to the limit.

“I tested the bike for only one day last week in Assen, so I plan to get as much track time as possible on Friday and Saturday so I can get a feeling for the bike. I have no expectations but I want to make solid progress over the weekend.

“I am sure that the German fans will pay more attention to the MotoGP class this weekend with a German racing a 500 and I guess there will be more watching the TV coverage and cheering me on from the sidelines, pushing me on. I am here to work hard and to do my best.”

Alex, who contested the 250 World Championship last season for the Aprilia Racing Factory Team will be competing on bike #66 this weekend, his racing number since 1995.

Hofmann rides the Red Bull Yamaha this weekend in place of the injured Jean-Michel Bayle, who is resting his torn left arm bicep muscle. Bayle, the 2002 Test Rider himself replaced Garry McCoy who is anticipated to be racing at the UK Grand Prix.

John “Hopper” Hopkins, teammate this year to McCoy, Bayle and Hofmann, is looking to score points again in this GP. The young American rookie who has finished in the points at every GP this year is hoping for his first Top 10 finish. Hopkins tested here in March this year so this will be one track that he has had a chance to get to know before the race weekend.


John Hopkins
“I like this track, the elevation changes, the layout and the tight corners. It will be good to get on the bike on Friday and concentrate solely on the bike set-up and not have to learn a new track. I feel like I’m in really good physical condition and the heat here is just like being at home on a Summer day in San Diego, California.”

The Schedule For World Superbike/AMA Race At Laguna Seca

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This just in:

AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship
Presented by Parts Unlimited
Honda International Superbike Classic
Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
July 11-14, 2002


Wednesday, July 10th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (in paddock at race information), 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM


Thursday, July 11th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (in paddock, race information), 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Practice (in the following order): 8:30 AM – 11:50 PM
1. Buell Pro Thunder
2. Chevy Trucks Superbike
3. Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme
4. Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport

Lunch Break/FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 11:50 AM – 12:50 PM

Mandatory Rider Briefing for All Classes, 12:10 PM

Buell Pro Thunder Qualifying, 12:50 PM – 1:40 PM

Chevy Trucks Superbike Qualifying, 1:50 PM – 2:50 PM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Qualifying, 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM

Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport Qualifying, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Friday, July 12th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Practice (in the following order): 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
1. Buell Pro Thunder
2. Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport
3. Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 10:00 AM

WSBK Practice, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Lunch Break, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport Final (60k – 17 laps), 12:30 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM

WSBK Qualifying, 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Qualifying, 3:20 PM – 4:10 PM

Buell Pro Thunder Final, (60k – 17 laps) 4:30 PM


Saturday, July 13th

Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Chevy Trucks Superbike Practice, 9:10 AM – 9:50 AM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Practice, 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 10:40 AM

WSBK Qualifying, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Lunch Break, 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

Stunt Show (Front Straight),12:00 PM – 12:15 PM


FINAL EVENTS (in the following order)

Chevy Trucks Superbike (100k – 28 laps),12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme (60k – 17 laps), 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

WSBK Practice,2:45 PM – 3:45 PM

WSBK Superpole,4:00 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Qualifying,5:00 PM – 5:30 PM


Sunday, July 14th

Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Tech Inspection Opens:8:30 AM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 8:40 AM – 9:00 AM

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 9:05 AM

WSBK Warm-up, 9:20 AM – 9:40 AM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Practice, 9:50 AM – 10:20 AM

Fan Ride/Keith Code Lap, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Stunt Show (Front Straight), 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WSBK Race #1(100.856k – 28 laps), 12:00 PM
Lunch Break/Stunt Show (Turn 4)12:50 PM – 1:30 PM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Race (60k – 17 laps), 1:30 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix (60k – 17 laps), 2:20 PM – 3:00 PM

WSBK Race #2 (100.856k – 28 laps), 3:30 PM
Stunt Show (Front Straight), 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Team New England Motorsports II Wins Formula USA NRRS 200-mile Team Challenge

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc. By David Swarts Team New England Motorsports II’s Chad Healy and Jim Bonner won the 21-entry “Loudon 200” Formula USA NRRS 200-mile Team Challenge on a Dunlop-equipped Yamaha YZF-R6 Friday at New Hampshire International Speedway. Healy and 50-year-old Bonner ran out of gas once, coasted to the pits, made only one other pit stop for fuel, completed 123 laps of the 1.6-mile road course and won by 35 seconds over second-place GMD Computrack/Seacoast. The race was stopped short of its scheduled 200-mile distance when its 2-hour, 45-minute time limit was reached at 5:50 p.m. Eastern Time. GMD Computrack/Seacoast’s Michael Martire, David Ruocco, Charles Sandoz and Peter Kates rode one, 40-minute shift each on their Dunlop D208GP-fitted ex-John Hopkins Suzuki GSX-R750. After the race, GMD Computrack – Boston’s Kates said their race was uneventful. Taking third overall and the GT Lights class win 67 seconds behind the winners was Team All-Star Pepsi’s John Lounsbury, Malcolm Bradsher and Rick Douchette. Riding a Supersport-spec Suzuki SV650 shod with Dunlop DOT-labeled tires, Team All-Star Pepsi said their small Suzuki was the perfect bike for going fast on the tight, technical Loudon track. New England Motorsports’ number one team of Gus Holcomb and Mark Reynolds lost the overall race lead on lap 28 when Holcomb crashed in turn 11. Holcomb picked up the team’s lightly damaged Suzuki GSX-R600 and finished his shift but the team could do no better than fourth overall, one lap down to Team New England Motorsports II. Fifth overall, Team Daemon/Bikeworx’s Galen Miller and Paul Luevano won the GTU class with a Honda CBR600F4 on Pirelli DOT-labeled rubber. Loudon 200 Provisional Overall Results: 1. Team New England Motorsports II, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTO, 123 laps; 2. GMD Computrack/Seacoast, Suzuki GSX-R750, GTO, -35.217 seconds; 3. Team All-Star Pepsi, Suzuki SV650, GT Lights, -67.812 seconds; 4. New England Motorsports, Suzuki GSX-R600, GTO, -1 lap; 5. Team Daemon/Bikeworx, Honda CBR600F4, GTU, -30.259 seconds; 6. Team Hooters/Orient Express Racing, Suzuki GSX-R600, GTU, -3 laps; 7. Crowbar Racing, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTU, -7.043 seconds; 8. Team Extreme, Yamaha YZF-R1, GTO, -8.784 seconds; 9. Starnet/4&6 Racing, Kawasaki ZX-6R, GTU, -17.529 seconds; 10. T Bone Racing, Yamaha YZF-R6, GTU, -26.618 seconds

Updated Post: Eric Wood Sets The Pace In Formula USA Practice At Loudon

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Sportbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Buell XB9R, 1:14.034
2. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.059
3. Shawn Higbee, Buell XB9R, 1:14.226
4. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.486
5. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.491
6. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.595
7. Craig Connell, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:14.873
8. Don Canet, Buell XB9R, 1:15.443
9. Matt Wait, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:15.963
10. Ray Bowman, 1:15.963
11. Jeff Wood, Suzuki GSX-R600, 1:16.181
12. Matthew Silva, 1:17.009
13. Cory West, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:17.378
14. William Fray, 1:17.407
15. Peter Ribaudo, 1:17.429
16. Jim Lester, Honda CBR600F4i, 1:17.475
17. Jeff LaPointe, 1:17.721
18. David Schweitzer, 1:17.758
19. Craig Recore, Honda CBR600, 1:17.762
20. Richard Kjar, 1:17.969

Friday Morning Unlimited Superbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.925
2. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.250
3. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.367
4. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.418
5. Pit Stop Motorsports, 1:13.556*
6. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.587
7. Des Conboy, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.958
8. Matthew Silva, 1:14.349
9. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:14.473
10. Michael Himmelsbach, Aprilia RSV1000R, 1:14.475
11. Darian Polach, Honda CBR929RR, 1:14.723
12. Matt Wait, Honda CBR954RR, 1:15.210
13. Joe Spina, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.426
14. George Tarricone, 1:16.104
15. George Jones, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.208
16. Bob Blanchette, Kawasaki ZX-9R, 1:16.591
17. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.990
18. Robet Belensky, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 1:17.271
19. John Madden, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:17.640
20. Senen Vega, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:17.760

Friday Afternoon Unlimited Superbike Practice Times:

1. Eric Wood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.380
2. Shawn Higbee, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.569
3. Charles Chouinard, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:12.696
4. Pit Stop Motorsports, 1:13.148*
5. Larry Pegram, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.171
6. Scott Greenwood, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.205
7. Michael Himmelsbach, Aprilia RSV1000R, 1:13.271
8. Des Conboy, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.330
9. Michael Barnes, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:13.775
10. Matthew Silva, 1:13.875
11. Darian Polach, Honda CBR929RR, 1:13.967
12. Lee Acree, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:14.046
13. Geoff May, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:14.133
14. Matt Wait, Honda CBR954RR, 1:14.922
15. Joe Spina, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.108
16. Michael Niksa, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:15.314
17. Chris Rockwell, 1:15.665
18. George Tarricone, 1:15.907
19. George Jones, Suzuki GSX-R750, 1:16.568
20. Bob Blanchette, Kawasaki ZX-9R, 1:16.620

*The Pit Stop Motorsports lap times are believed to be the times of Arclight Suzuki’s Craig Connell. The confusion was caused by a crash of the timing and scoring computer Friday morning.

Buell Lightning & Thunderbike Practice Times:

1. Bryan Bemisderfer, Buell 1200, 1:18.361
2. Jerry Wood, Ducati 944, 1:18.854
3. Richie Morris, Buell 1200, 1:19.086
4. Jeff Johnson, Buell 1200, 1:19.264
5. Clint Brotz, Buell 1200, 1:20.672
6. David White, Suzuki SV650, 1:21.001
7. Rick Patrolia, Suzuki SV650, 1:21.281
8. Sam Rozynski, Buell 1200, 1:22.125
9. Bart Chamberlain, Kawasaki EX500, 1:22.155
10. Galen Miller, MuZ 720, 1:22.773
11. Steve Luxem, Buell 1200, 1:23.569
12. Malcolm Bradsher, Suzuki SV650, 1:23.665
13. Carl Sargent, Suzuki SV650, 1:24.038
14. Alan Quin, Suzuki SV650, 1:24.117
15. Michael De Lage, 1:24.309
16. Glen Piro, Kawasaki EX500, 1:24.685
17. Jeff Harding, Buell 1200, 1:24.704
18. Sean Byrnes, 1:24.733
19. Patrick Wakefield, 1:24.761
20. Charles Brighenti, 1:25.241

125cc & 250cc Grand Prix Practice Times:

1. Chris Reynolds, 1:16.952
2. Jerry Wood, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.039
3. Gregor Halinda, 1:17.180
4. Todd Puckett, 1:17.193
5. Steve Scott, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.260
6. Tony Iannarelli, Yamaha TZ250, 1:17.551
7. Brian Kcraget, Honda RS125, 1:17.830
8. Dale Greenwood, Jr., Honda RS125, 1:18.539
9. Jim Bonner, Yamaha TZ250, 1:19.059
10. Scott Moxey, 1:19.463
11. Joe Ford, Yamaha TZ125, 1:19.604
12. David Arvidson, Honda RS125, 1:19.645
13. Rick Moreaun, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.456
14. Timothy O’Conner, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.654
15. Daniel Rios, Yamaha TZ250, 1:20.985
16. unknown, 1:21.230
17. Richard Gosselin, Honda RS125, 1:22.025
18. Sean Wray, 1:22.123
19. Bill Cole, Honda RS125, 1:22.260
20. Tim Courts, 1:22.772

Rossi Sets The Pace In MotoGP Practice At The Gran Premi Marlboro De Catalunya

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday Morning MotoGP Practice Times:

1. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:45.693
2. Loris Capirossi, Honda NSR500, 1:46.062
3. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:46.175
4. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:46.341
5. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:46.358
6. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:46.530
7. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:46.674
8. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.727
9. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:46.946
10. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:47.032
11. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.117
12. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.326
13. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.383
14. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.386
15. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:47.647
16. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.662
17. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:48.070
18. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:48.278
19. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:48.639
20. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:48.761
21. Alex Hofmann, Yamaha YZR500, 1:50.782

Pro Thunder Champion Tom Montano To Appear At Fund Raiser

From a press release issued by Dave Neal:

The Full Circle Program runs several residential houses and a farm in Dogtown, CA (Marin County) for abused boys. This program has been very successful in turning around the lives of boys who, in all probability, were on the fast track to prison. The program has been so successful in helping direct these young lads to productive lives that is has been studied by many others who are working to accomplish the same goals.

However, like most charitable programs, it is in constant need of additional financial support. Toward this end, The Sunday Morning Ride has adopted this program via an annual fundraiser. Participation in this event not only gives the attending motorcyclists the fun and satisfaction of supporting this most worthwhile cause, but also helps improve the image of motorcyclists in the eyes of the community.

Please use any or all of the following information as you see fit to help us generate an even bigger turn out this year in support of Seventh Annual Full Circle Ride.

On Sunday, August 12, 2001, nearly 170 Sunday Morning Riders attended the fund raising breakfast at the Full Circle Program farm at Dogtown in West Marin. Most of the riders left the Arco Station at Tam Junction (just off the Hwy 1 exit from Hwy 101 in Mill Valley) at the usual 7:30 departure time for The Sunday Morning Ride. They were joined by approximately 80 to 90 more riders who arrived at the Dogtown location on Highway 1 over the next two hours. Many attendees were accidental participants in that despite coverage in City Bike, Road Racing World, Friction Zone, Norton Notice and posters and fliers in motorcycle dealerships, they were unaware of the event and simply set out to enjoy Highway 1 on a sunny Sunday morning.

Attending riders had the opportunity to meet local motorcycle hero, star of “On Any Sunday,” and former Grand National Champion, Mert Lawwill who autographed photos and spoke to the assembled riders. Kurtis Roberts donated a set of leathers that were auctioned at the event. For their $10 or more donations, riders were treated to a magnificent breakfast spread consisting of coffee, pancakes, sausage, granola, yogurt, sweet rolls, bananas, oranges and melons. Commemorative T-shirts picturing Kurtis Roberts on his number one plate 600 Honda and sponsored by various industry supporters were given to all who attended.

Bay Area motorcycle dealers and accessory manufacturers supported the event with over $5000 worth of merchandise and gift certificates, which were raffled off after breakfast. During and after the raffle there was a great deal of swapping going on between winners as they traded one prize for another of more interest. Munroe Motors donated a 2001 CR50 Husky mini motocross bike, which was also raffled off. Amazingly, the bike raffle was won by a guy with 4-year-old twins!

More than $7500 was raised for the Full Circle Program. The money was used to equip the farm with a complete computer lab with all peripherals including 10 computers, printer, and satellite internet connection, equipment that the program wanted but could not otherwise afford. The boys at the farm learned that there are a lot more people outside the program who care about them. The participating motorcyclists enjoyed a beautiful day both on the roads of West Marin and at the farm. Nevertheless, 80 to 90% of the riders who attended were current or former Sunday Morning Ride regulars. For this year’s event, we hope to see a lot more new faces. This is too much fun to be enjoyed by so few.

Announcement:

The organizers (whoever they may be) of the Sunday Morning Ride for Full Circle will appreciate any and all support you can provide for the seventh annual event. The ride will take place on August 25, 2002. Riders can join with other riders at the Arco station at Tam Junction (just off Hwy 101 at the Hwy 1 North exit in Mill Valley). Riders will be leaving starting at 7:30 (the regular departure time for The Sunday Morning Ride) and continuing until 10:30 (to arrive by 11:00 AM). This annual fundraising event benefits the Full Circle Program. Full Circle provides residential and counseling services for boys who have been abused or seriously neglected by the persons who should have been caring for them. Kids who may have been on the straight track to prison are turned around in a loving and caring environment that helps them to become productive and well adjusted members of society. All participants will receive a free T-shirt with Tom Montano’s picture on his Pro Thunder Championship winning 748 Ducati. Tom and his number one plate wearing Ducati will be present. He will sign autographs and answer questions about the bike and racing.

The event, which includes a great breakfast for a $10 donation, free T-shirt and a drawing for motorcycle accessories and discount coupons from local dealers, raised over $7,500 last year. We hope to top that amount this year. Last year local motorcycle dealers and shops contributed more than $5,000 worth of accessories and gift certificates. More than one rider left with $200 to $300 in motorcycle gear for his $10 to $20 investment in raffle tickets. All left with a feeling of having contributed to a very worthwhile cause. This year a 2002 Husky CR50R mini motocross bike donated my Munroe Motors in San Francisco will be raffled along with motorcycle accessories.

Breakfast and the drawings are held at the Full Circle farm in Dogtown on Hwy 1 about 1 mile north of Bolinas. We would like to encourage as many riders as possible to support this worthwhile event and take the opportunity to meet some of the boys in residence. It is also a great excuse to get out and enjoy the pleasures of Hwy 1 in Marin on a Sunday morning. Please invite 4 or 5 friends who would not otherwise be there to join you for the event. Let’s see if we can’t double last year’s turnout and funds raised!

Loris Capirossi On Provisional Pole At Catalunya, Rossi 4th, Roberts 5th, Hopkins 8th

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Friday MotoGP Qualifying Results:

1. Loris Capirossi, Honda NSR500, 1:45.451
2. Sete Gibernau, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:45.532
3. Tohru Ukawa, Honda RC211V, 1:45.619
4. Carlos Checa, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:45.787
5. Valentino Rossi, Honda RC211V, 1:45.842
6. Kenny Roberts, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:45.923
7. Max Biaggi, Yamaha YZR-M1, 1:45.948
8. John Hopkins, Yamaha YZR-500, 1:45.967
9. Regis Laconi, Aprilia RS3, 1:46.057
10. Alex Barros, Honda NSR500, 1:46.187
11. Daijiro Kato, Honda NSR500, 1:46.245
12. Norick Abe, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.264
13. Shinya Nakano, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.328
14. Jeremy McWilliams, Proton KR3, 1:46.506
15. Nobuatsu Aoki, Proton KR3, 1:46.806
16. Jurgen vd Goorbergh, Honda NSR500, 1:46.810
17. Olivier Jacque, Yamaha YZR500, 1:46.839
18. Pere Riba, Yamaha YZR500, 1:47.571
19. Akira Ryo, Suzuki GSV-R, 1:47.931
20. Tetsuya Harada, Honda NSR500, 1:48.405
21. Alex Hofmann, Yamaha YZR500, 1:49.063

MotoGP Team Press Releases From Catalunya

From Telefonica MoviStar Suzuki:

Team Telefónica MoviStar Suzuki rider Sete Gibernau was a stunning second fastest in today’s first timed practice for Sunday’s Catalunyan GP, with team-mate Kenny Roberts less than four tenths slower, on the second row of the provisional starting grid.

Both riders enjoyed the benefit of not only the latest generation of Michelin tyres, which they are using for the first time, but also a series of engine upgrades – part of the continual programme of development to the new Suzuki GSV-R, youngest of the three new-generation Japanese 990cc MotoGP four-strokes.

The power-up engine improvements include a new Mk3 crankcase, with reduced internal friction, and revised engine control mapping for the ECU. But engine designer Kunio Arase, at the track along with fellow factory engineers and factory rider Akira Ryo, was anxious to stress this is just another interim stage. Development is constant, and the factory is determined to continue the rapid rate of improvement already achieved in the bike’s first five races. Ryo, second in Japan and a wild card entry for this GP, placed 19th today, his first ride on the GSV-R on Michelin tyres. He uses Dunlops racing the bike at home in Japan.

Held in blazing sunshine at the 4.727km circuit outside Barcelona, the first session was very close. Gibernau was just eight hundredths slower than provision pole qualifier Loris Capirossi, and the first 13 riders were within one second of Capirossi’s time.

SETE GIBERNAU – Second Position, 1:45.532

“I had one or two small problems this morning, so I’m happy with the time this afternoon. You have to remember that it was only one lap, and Loris (Capirossi) helped me a lot, because I was following right behind him. The whole GSV-R package is becoming much better. The Michelins are part of the package, and we have to thank them for the new tyres. I’m hoping to have no problems tomorrow, and to pick up my pace to do strings of fast laps.”

KENNY ROBERTS Jr. – Sixth Position, 1:45.923

“I think my level is probably the closest we’ve been to the other bikes all year, especially in terms of race settings. I’m pretty comfortable, and able to do consistent laps. My time came on the fifth or sixth lap, and using race tyres. It wasn’t just one lap, tucked in, balls out and hope you survive the lap, which is what I’ve had to do a couple of times this year. The new tyres are a big jump – the biggest jump since 1999, when I changed to Michelins for the first time. The new engine also seems to be an improvement. There are a couple of kilometres more top speed and it’s a little stronger mid-range.”

KUNIO ARASE: Engine Designer

“This is the third generation of crankcase, designed to reduce further the mechanical losses. The exact way we do it is a secret; the result is a little more horsepower through the rev range. This is the first race for the new crankcases, but they have undergone extensive reliability testing in Japan. The other difference here is a refinement to the engine management mapping, which improves the performance in back-shifting by reducing engine braking. We are continuing work in that area, but the main priority at the moment is increased engine power. This engine is improved, but I don’t believe by enough. I can’t say when we will have more power, but it will be during this season.”

WARREN WILLING: Technical Advisor

“The new crankcases and mapping are another small step, and the bike is more consistent now in engine braking. The 2002 tyres are definitely more consistent, with better steering characteristics. We’re playing catch-up to an extent with getting the bike settings right for the tyres, but not with choice – like all the Michelin teams we had a choice of two this morning, and having established which variation we prefer we then got another choice in that direction. On average, the bigger footprint of the rear tyre allows softer compounds. It’s a definite improvement.”

RYO SETTLES IN

Japanese Superbike Champion Akira Ryo made a steady start to his three-stop MotoGP campaign in Catalunya, taking 18th place in the first qualifying session before Sunday’s race. Ryo’s time of 1.47.931 was just 2.468 slower than the provisional pole position time of 1.45.451 set by Italian rider Loris Capirossi,and he is confident that he can improve even further as he settles in to his first ever race outside of Japan.

Suzuki gained three ‘wild-card’ MotoGP entries for Ryo, starting with this weekend’s race in Catalunya, then moving on to the next round at Assen in the Netherlands and finally Donington Park in the UK.

Ryo gave the new GSV-R four-stroke race machine a sensational second place debut at the first round of the new MotoGP series back in April, when he took a home wildcard entry at Suzuka, leading for most of the race before losing out to World Champion Valantino Rossi in the closing laps.

Ryo’s three-race MotoGP campaign is designed to accelerate the on-going development programme of the new Suzuki GSV-R machine alongside the official factory MotoGP Telefonica Movistar Suzuki team riders, Kenny Roberts and Sete Gibernau. Ryo’s machine is identical to the other two Suzuki pilot’s bikes, but he is racing in the factory’s official blue and white livery.

Commenting on his first qualifying session, Ryo said, “All the testing and racing I have done so far on the GSV-R has been on Dunlop tyres and so I am still getting used to the different feel of the Michelin’s that we are racing on here. We have played with a number of different settings today and I think that we have made some progress. Tomorrow, if the weather holds, we will make more progress I am certain.”

More, from Yamaha:

Checa set for a front row start

Round: 6 – Catalunya MotoGP
Circuit: Catalunya
Date: 14 June 2002
Temp: 32°C
Weather: Sunny

Sweltering heat greeted the 21-bike contingent for the opening qualifying session of the Catalan MotoGP, held June 14. Carlos Checa (Marlboro Yamaha Team) set the early benchmark for his home event before finishing the day with the fourth fastest time. The Spaniard held provisional pole position until a five-way bullfight began between Loris Capirossi (Honda, 1’45.451), Sete Gibernau (Suzuki, 1’45.532), Tohru Ukawa (Honda, 1’45.619), Checa (1’45.787) and Valentino Rossi (Honda, 1’45.842) – the quintet finishing in that order with only 0.391 seconds separating them.

Max Biaggi’s (Marlboro Yamaha Team, 1’45.948) best put him seventh fastest – 0.497 seconds off pole, and only 0.025 seconds behind sixth-placed Kenny Roberts (Suzuki, 1’45.923). The YZR-M1 mounted Italian was closely followed by the ever-improving John Hopkins; the young American posting a 1’45.967 aboard the Red Bull Yamaha WCM YZR500 to be eighth fastest.

Norick Abe (Antena 3 Yamaha d’Antin, 1’46.264) completed day one in 12th, just ahead of Shinya Nakano (Gauloises Yamaha Tech 3, 1’46.328), while the most recent Red Bull Yamaha rider replacement, Alex Hofmann, completed the lineup in 21st with a 1’49.063.

Marlboro Yamaha Team

Carlos Checa 4th, 1’45.787:
“We’re very focused for this weekend, but so far we’re quite far from where we want to be. We had a few settings problems this morning and, although we worked hard to improve things this afternoon, we’ll need to make a few more changes for tomorrow. The heat means that everyone’s lap times aren’t fantastic, and while I wasn’t using a soft tyre at the end of the session, I was trying my maximum on my best lap. Tomorrow I’ll need the bike to keep rolling more easily through the corners, and I’ll also need better feeling on the corner exits. But compared to before, we’re okay. This was never a good track for us with the 500, but this bike already feels better here. Now we’re working to make sure it’s even better at the end of the weekend.”

Max Biaggi 7th, 1’45.948:
“We had a few little problems this afternoon, which held me back a bit. The power didn’t seem to be consistent, sometimes I would lose power out of a corner, other times it would be fine. But I’m not too worried; it’s always better to have your problems in practice rather than in the race! All being well, we should have more time to work on settings tomorrow. We started this morning with a base setting we came up with at Valencia, then we made a small change for this afternoon and now we need to further adapt the bike to this track, mostly working on the front-end. There’s more to do but I feel we should be okay here for race day.”

Red Bull Yamaha WCM

John Hopkins 8th, 1’45.967:
“I think half a second is the closest to pole position that I’ve been so far this year. I’m really happy with my performance throughout that whole session, but I know I can still improve as I made a few small mistakes, even on my best lap. We also think we can modify the set-up to improve the feedback too, which should help.

Hopkins closes in on the leaders
“The grip levels weren’t great, I think it’s a combination of the high temperatures and the circuit beginning still a little dirty. I focused on finding a race set-up rather than just a fast lap. I only put on a softer rear in the last few minutes and I couldn’t have timed it better. I got out just behind Capirossi and Gibernau when they put in their fast laps and it was great to see what they can do.”

Alex Hofmann 21st, 1’49.063:
“I’m just trying to get to know the bike at the moment. I focused on learning how the bike will respond with each chassis modification, this way I have a better understanding of its limitations, and mine. Feel is the main thing I’m looking for, and we’ve got some ideas to help improve things in that area, and then we’ll look at improving the grip.”

Antena 3 Yamaha d’Antin

Norick Abe 12th, 1’46.264:
“It is so hot out there today! These are very difficult conditions to be riding in, not only for the rider but the bike too. When it is this hot the bikes tend to lose power, and the tyres lose grip. I did try a softer tyre in the last few minutes, and it help to better my time, but it wasn’t enough to make much of a difference to my position. We have some things we’d like to try with the front set-up, so that the bike turns in better, and then we’d like to look at improving the drive off the turns.”

Pere Riba 18th, 1’47.571:
“I’m quite happy with that, even if I am still only 18th. The time is not that much better than what I did during the test earlier in the year, partly because of the high temperatures, but I’m feeling much more comfortable now at this speed. I can feel what the bike is doing where before I was just guessing. The test we recently had in Valencia really helped out in this regard, as track time is just what I’ve been needing all along.”

Gauloises Yamaha Tech 3

Shinya Nakano 13th, 1’46.328:
“We concentrated on one bike this afternoon, using a chassis geometry based on what we ran here last year. It seems to have been a good choice through the medium and high-speed sections of the circuit, but I’m lacking some feel from the front in the last stage. Tomorrow we’ll try a few things that should improve the front-end feel. I hope that will be the case, for my fan club at least, which has come all the way from Japan to watch me race this weekend.”

Olivier Jacque 21st, 1’49.063:
“I just can’t seem to get the feedback I need from the front of the bike, which is crucial around here for a fast time. Combine the lack of feel with the limited grip we have in these conditions and I just don’t have the confidence to push hard. The crash I had didn’t help either. It was only my second lap on a new set of tyres and I wasn’t even pushing hard. We’ll have a good think about it tonight and hopefully come out fighting tomorrow.”

Even more, from Red Bull Yamaha:

HOT LAP HOPKINS ON THE FASTEST 2 STROKE YAMAHA

John Hopkins the 19 year old American rookie has put in another exceptional performance in Friday’s qualifying session in Barcelona aboard the Red Bull Yamaha YZR 500. Finishing 8th in the scorching 34 degree temperature, Hopper is very pleased with his performance in this his sixth MotoGP event of his career.

Hopkins performance today, positions him as the fastest 2 stroke Yamaha in the session and sees him again in Fridays Top Ten list, a feat he accomplished for the first time at the Italian GP, 2 weeks ago.

Only a mere 0.125 seconds behind the reigning World Champion, Valentino Rossi (in 5th position), Hopper clocked the Fastest Top Speed for a 2 stroke Yamaha at 306.6km, ahead of his nearest 2 stroke Yamaha rival Shinya Nakano.

Newcomer to the team, German Alex Hofmann, made history today as the first German ever to ride a 500cc Yamaha 2 stroke. Hofmann improved on this mornings practice session by 1.719 seconds and with each lap, the young 22-year-old begins to understand the performance of the YZR 500.

This weekend, the Red Bull Yamaha riders line up as the 2 youngest riders on the MotoGP grid.


JOHN HOPKINS – 8th – 1’45.967

“I’m getting more comfortable on the bike now, I’m learning to understand it more at each race and I am working in really well with the team and my mechanics.

“I’m pretty happy with my performance today and I feel like I found my rhythm fast here. I had a full two dry days testing here in March and I know about the track straight up so I can concentrate on the bike from first thing Friday morning.

“We have a lot of work to do tonight, to select the tyres for the heat here; we will be working on the grip and our race set-up. I am focusing on the beginning of the race and the start so I can get stronger here. I want to be on the second row on Sunday and I will do all I can to achieve that.”


ALEX HOFMANN – 21st – 1’49.063

“I am feeling better on the bike with each lap and getting more comfortable on the 500 and I am making progress. We are fighting for grip on the rear in these hot conditions and I have been sliding a lot in this session and going sideways. So we have to make some changes for the set-up for tomorrow to improve this.”


Peter Clifford – Team Manager

“Just another step forward for John and its incredible to see how steady and sure his progress is. We have to thank Dunlop for the work they are putting in, which is helping with John’s progress.

“It’s only Alex’s second day riding with the Team and it was another professional and intelligent session as he gets use to the motorcycle.”

More, from Aprilia:

Laconi and RS Cube make third provisional row with ninth time in qualifying practice.

With 9th quickest time in the qualifying sessions today, Laconi has placed the RS Cube on the third provisional row for the start, just 6 tenths from the (again provisional) pole scored by Loris Capirossi. Régis’s time, 1’46.057, was clocked during the final sorties in this afternoon’s session after the rider mounted qualifying tyres. The minimal gap from today’s leader shows that yet another step forward has been made in developing the Cube, and that the tests at Mugello straight after the Italian GP made a yet another considerable improvement. The qualifying tyres gave some good results, and tomorrow’s work will concentrate on choosing the race tyres and testing them over a distance.


# 55 Regis Laconi – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 9th – 1’46.057

“We worked hard this morning with the bike in qualifying configuration. I tried a front tyre that gave a great sensation and let me break harder and take the corners faster. So I’m feeling quite relaxed and happy with the Cube in “qualifying mode”: now we’ve got to work on the best race configuration. The distance from today’s best time is really minimal: just 6 tenths. I think that says a lot about the bike’s potential. And that’s not all: in terms of speed, we made third fastest today, and we’ve only got two Honda four-strokes in front of us. We’ve sure go the power. Tomorrow, we’ll sort out the fine details to make sure we have a good race. The track’s full of potholes, which are annoying but I’ve got the secret for solving the problem: I’ll just go faster!”.


Second quickest time, first provisional row for Marco “Macio” Melandri in sweltering Catalunya

Blistering heat in the 250 practice sessions too. Tough work for Marco Melandri, but certainly not easy for the others either. Once the Ravenna-born rider was satisfied with the set-up of his Aprilia RSW 250, he turned his full attention to the choice of tyres for a race which is going to be truly gruelling due to the extreme weather conditions, with over 30 degrees in the shade and almost 44 on the tarmac.

A number of different tyre solutions were tried out and, in the end, the best choice turned out to be a slightly softer mix than had been used at the start of the session.



# 3 Marco Melandri – (MS APRILIA RACING) – 2nd – 1’48.490

“Taking into account the scorching heat, we started the session using really hard tyres, but then towards the end – just 10 minutes before time was up – we tried out some softer ones we’d used in other races. Things got better and I went off to see if I could get provisional pole. It’s a pity De Puniet managed to go faster – I very nearly made it. The slightly softer tyres seem much less easy to handle when you need to control the bike in a skid, while harder ones don’t have this problem. Now we’ll need to see if the choice we’ve made can last out an entire race. Tomorrow we’ll be doing all the various tests. If the heat keeps up like this on Sunday, it’s the tyres that are going to make the difference. Otherwise, I’m very pleased with the set-up of the bike and I’m fully confident things’ll go well in the race the day after tomorrow.”




Hayes To Ride Again This Weekend

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Josh Hayes, injured during practice for the AMA National at California Speedway in April, will return to the track for the first time this weekend, during a WERA National Endurance Series and National Challenge Series event at Talladega Gran Prix Raceway in Talladega, Alabama.

Hayes will ride a Suzuki GSX-R600.

He hopes to return to AMA competition at The Colonel’s Brainerd International Raceway June 27-30.

Arai Introduces Smaller Helmet Sizes, For Women & Kids

From a press release:


ARAI INTRODUCES
NEW XXS AND XXXS SIZES
FOR WOMEN AND YOUNGER RIDERS


(Daytona, FL) Arai has added new, smaller XXS and XXXS sizes to its Quantum/f full-face model. The move acknowledges the ever-growing number of women riders, and also the increased number of younger riders drawn to Arai helmets, based on the company’s latest research. The new XXS size is for heads measuring 51-52cm in circumference; XXXS for those measuring 49-50cm.



According to Bruce Porter, Arai’s Marketing Manager, the necessity of Arai introducing smaller sizes for female riders came from his own experience. “I attend all of the wintertime consumer shows, where we are constantly measuring riders’ heads, helping them learn how to get the proper helmet size and shape for their particular heads, and for several years I’ve been measuring women motorcyclists who have head sizes as small as 47cm, much smaller than our 53-54cm XS size. I mentioned this to Mr. Arai at a meeting at Arai Japan’s headquarters, along with figures on the ever-growing number of new women riders. I further reported that it had been my experience that almost all petite female consumers had distinctly round-shaped heads and that consequently they would fit our Quantum series shell shape very well.

“Mr. Arai responded to this unique need almost immediately by ordering the construction of the XXS and XXXS sizes in the Quantum/f.”

As if the women’s market wasn’t enough reason for Arai to move to smaller sizes, the company reported that its research over the past several years has shown a definite trend toward more younger riders buying Arais than ever before.

Arai’s Quantum series’ features include the company’s LRS tool-less shield removal mechanism, Arai’s unique “Double Delta-2” ventilation system, the advanced FFS “FreeFlow System” (whose cheekpad design, neck roll, and extended pull-down chinbar spoiler all combine to further reduce wind turbulence while increasing the exhaust of hot air from the face area), and removable, replaceable cheekpads in optional thicknesses for more personal comfort and fit (an Arai innovation now used by most other helmet makers).

Also, like all Arai Helmets, the Quantum series benefits from Arai’s handmade quality, exhaustive attention to detail, and multiple-density foam interiors that are still hand-fit into place, all combining to provide a level of comfort and fit so special that they have helped Arai just earn its fourth consecutive J.D. Power & Associates Award as the highest-ranking motorcycle helmet in customer satisfaction.*

Arai’s Quantum series helmets are available in sizes XXXS through XXL. MSRPs range from $426.95 to $533.95 depending on color and design.

Hofmann Is First German To Race Factory YZR500, And Hopper Says He’s Ready

From a press release issued by Red Bull Yamaha:

HOFMANN MAKES HISTORY AT CATALUNYA GP

German Alex Hofmann makes racing history this weekend at the Catalunya GP in Spain aboard the Red Bull Yamaha YZR500. Hofmann, who has recently celebrated his 22nd birthday, has the honor this weekend of being the first German rider ever to race on a Factory 500 Yamaha.


Alex Hofmann
“I am the first German ever to compete on a Factory 500 Yamaha as well as the first German to race in the new MotoGP class so it’s history in the making this weekend. I am so happy to be here and to be given this opportunity. I am here to have fun and ride the bike at one of my favorite tracks. I am racing in the best class, with the best riders on the best bikes and I will be pushing myself to the limit.

“I tested the bike for only one day last week in Assen, so I plan to get as much track time as possible on Friday and Saturday so I can get a feeling for the bike. I have no expectations but I want to make solid progress over the weekend.

“I am sure that the German fans will pay more attention to the MotoGP class this weekend with a German racing a 500 and I guess there will be more watching the TV coverage and cheering me on from the sidelines, pushing me on. I am here to work hard and to do my best.”

Alex, who contested the 250 World Championship last season for the Aprilia Racing Factory Team will be competing on bike #66 this weekend, his racing number since 1995.

Hofmann rides the Red Bull Yamaha this weekend in place of the injured Jean-Michel Bayle, who is resting his torn left arm bicep muscle. Bayle, the 2002 Test Rider himself replaced Garry McCoy who is anticipated to be racing at the UK Grand Prix.

John “Hopper” Hopkins, teammate this year to McCoy, Bayle and Hofmann, is looking to score points again in this GP. The young American rookie who has finished in the points at every GP this year is hoping for his first Top 10 finish. Hopkins tested here in March this year so this will be one track that he has had a chance to get to know before the race weekend.


John Hopkins
“I like this track, the elevation changes, the layout and the tight corners. It will be good to get on the bike on Friday and concentrate solely on the bike set-up and not have to learn a new track. I feel like I’m in really good physical condition and the heat here is just like being at home on a Summer day in San Diego, California.”

The Schedule For World Superbike/AMA Race At Laguna Seca

This just in:

AMA Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike Championship
Presented by Parts Unlimited
Honda International Superbike Classic
Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
July 11-14, 2002


Wednesday, July 10th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (in paddock at race information), 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM


Thursday, July 11th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (in paddock, race information), 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Practice (in the following order): 8:30 AM – 11:50 PM
1. Buell Pro Thunder
2. Chevy Trucks Superbike
3. Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme
4. Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport

Lunch Break/FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 11:50 AM – 12:50 PM

Mandatory Rider Briefing for All Classes, 12:10 PM

Buell Pro Thunder Qualifying, 12:50 PM – 1:40 PM

Chevy Trucks Superbike Qualifying, 1:50 PM – 2:50 PM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Qualifying, 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM

Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport Qualifying, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Friday, July 12th

Registration: Riders, Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Practice (in the following order): 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
1. Buell Pro Thunder
2. Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport
3. Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 10:00 AM

WSBK Practice, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Lunch Break, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport Final (60k – 17 laps), 12:30 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM

WSBK Qualifying, 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Qualifying, 3:20 PM – 4:10 PM

Buell Pro Thunder Final, (60k – 17 laps) 4:30 PM


Saturday, July 13th

Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Tech Inspection: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Chevy Trucks Superbike Practice, 9:10 AM – 9:50 AM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme Practice, 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 10:40 AM

WSBK Qualifying, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Lunch Break, 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

Stunt Show (Front Straight),12:00 PM – 12:15 PM


FINAL EVENTS (in the following order)

Chevy Trucks Superbike (100k – 28 laps),12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

Lockhart Phillips USA Formula Xtreme (60k – 17 laps), 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

WSBK Practice,2:45 PM – 3:45 PM

WSBK Superpole,4:00 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Qualifying,5:00 PM – 5:30 PM


Sunday, July 14th

Registration: Crew, Sponsors & Guests (Embassy Suites, Seaside), 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Tech Inspection Opens:8:30 AM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix Practice, 8:40 AM – 9:00 AM

FIM Track/Medical Inspection, 9:05 AM

WSBK Warm-up, 9:20 AM – 9:40 AM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Practice, 9:50 AM – 10:20 AM

Fan Ride/Keith Code Lap, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Stunt Show (Front Straight), 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WSBK Race #1(100.856k – 28 laps), 12:00 PM
Lunch Break/Stunt Show (Turn 4)12:50 PM – 1:30 PM

Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock Race (60k – 17 laps), 1:30 PM

MBNA 250 Grand Prix (60k – 17 laps), 2:20 PM – 3:00 PM

WSBK Race #2 (100.856k – 28 laps), 3:30 PM
Stunt Show (Front Straight), 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM

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