From a press release issued by Team Suzuki News Service:

ROAD TO RIO CONTINUES SUZUKI’S JOURNEY

MotoGP – Round 12, Jacarepagua, Brazil, September 21, 2002.

Team Telefónica MoviStar Suzuki embarks on the long trip down south to Rio de Janeiro with high hopes, after very fruitful tests followed a “best-so-far” Portuguese GP.

Fourth was former World Champion Kenny Roberts’ best result of the season on the all-new V4 four-stroke GSV-R racer, after a dogged race in appalling conditions.

But although a similar achievement remained elusive for team-mate Sete Gibernau – robbed of certain victory when he crashed out of the lead with less than four laps to go – his superb ride had until that moment also been his best yet on the new four-stroke. The Spanish rider seized the lead on the third of 28 laps, and pulled out a decisive margin on the streaming and treacherous track, before he fell with the flag almost within sight.

Gibernau flew home to Spain directly for treatment for his injuries … no fractures, but a painful collarbone dislocation.

Roberts stayed on at Estoril for a series of tests that took the still-developing bike to another level of feel and rider-friendliness.

The big step forward started before the race, with a new Suzuki-designed slipper clutch – a device that reduces the engine braking of the high-compression four-stroke.

The latest version was hailed as a big improvement by both riders even on their first outing. That was as practice began for the GP, severely limiting time both to get the sophisticated new clutch unit set up, and also to get the bike settings dialled in to the new possibilities offered for faster and more consistent corner entry.

“We knew right away it was a step forward,” said team manager Garry Taylor. “Sete proved that with a truly superb ride. He had lapped everybody up to ninth place, and had title leader Valentino Rossi beaten when unfortunately he suffered a little glitch with big consequences.

“After the race we had the time to work on integrating the clutch, and the other improvements that keep coming from the factory, with the whole package.

“Kenny was delighted. He said it made the bike feel more like a 500. In other words, he was able to ride it much more aggressively into the corners and everywhere on the track, in spite of the extra bulk and weight of the more powerful four-stroke prototype,” Taylor concluded.

The improvements should pay big dividends in Rio, the first of four “flyaway” races that continue with a gruelling schedule taking in Japan, Malaysia and Australia within the next five weeks.

Fast, wide and very bumpy, the scenically spectacular Nelson Piquet circuit at Jacarepagua outside Rio is highly technical, and exacting both on riders and on machine set-up.

The Rio race is the 12th of 16 rounds on the MGP calendar.


KENNY ROBERTS – “GETTING CLOSER THAN EVER”
“The tests at Estoril went really well. We did a lot of stuff with the new clutch, and got it so it takes a lot of pressure off the bike. It’s the closest since the first tests in January it’s been to feeling normal for me … like a 500. It’s better into the corners, but also just generally riding. It doesn’t do what it wants to do any more. It does what I want. I hope it carries over to Rio. We went pretty well there in qualifying last year, though the rain didn’t help us on race day. I believe our bike should work pretty good there.”


SETE GIBERNAU – “GOING TO RIO WITH GOOD RHYTHM”
“In the crash at Estoril, my collarbone was dislocated, but popped back in again. It was really painful, and it’s the sort of injury, like a broken rib, where you can’t really do anything except wait for it to get better. I’ve been getting treatment, and it’s still giving me trouble, but I hope it will be better in time to let me ride well. I’ve always liked Brazil, and now we are going there with a good rhythm. Maybe it will rain … but I think we need to consider doing well in the dry, like we did in Donington Park and Brno.”



ABOUT THIS RACE
The first GP in Brazil took place in 1987, at the inland circuit of Goiania. The race stayed there for two more years, then began a troubled search for a new home as that track was no longer homologated. After several false starts and cancellations, and a single round at the F1 circuit of Interlagos at Sao Paulo, the event moved to the rebuilt Nelson Piquet circuit outside Rio in 1995. The next year saw the name change to the Rio GP for 1996 and 1997. Another late cancellation in 1998 continued the oft-interrupted history of Brazilian GP racing, but it rejoined the calendar in 1999 to resume business as usual. This year’s race is the only one apart from the Dutch TT to be held on a Saturday.


ABOUT THIS CIRCUIT
The Rio circuit was an early example of a modern trend – circuits incorporating NASCAR-style banked oval tracks, with the three-mile road-racing circuit sharing part of the tarmac. Bumps and surface-changes at these junctions further complicate an already bumpy surface, of a track much more technically challenging than the simple layout suggests. Apart from a spectacular location on reclaimed marshland, among towering granite peaks, the Nelson Piquet’s plus point is its scale. With huge grandstands adding to atmosphere, looping corners are wide and fast. Like other seldom-used tracks, the surface is hard to read. Grip varies according to temperature, and though the racing line improves with use during practice and qualifying days, the track remains very slippery off line. Accurate riding is important, and overtaking difficult.


RACE DATA
Nelson Piquet Circuit – Jacarepagua

Circuit Length: 3.065 miles / 4.933 km.

Lap Record: 1:51.928 -98.588 mph / 158.662 km/h. T Okada (Honda), 1997

2001 Race Winner: V Rossi (Honda)

2001 Race Average: 45:57.414 – 96.045 mph / 154.569 km/h

2001 Fastest Race Lap: 1:53.258, Rossi

2001 Pole Position: T Ukawa (Honda) 1:51.431

2001 Kenny Roberts: 16th, qualified Third (Telefónica MoviStar Suzuki)

2001 S Gibernau: 12th, qualified Sixth (Telefónica MoviStar Suzuki)

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Former Superbike World Champion and current World Superbike points leader Colin Edwards is seriously disappointed with Honda.

After years of being told by Honda officials that he can’t move to MotoGP with Honda because he’s an American and marketing reasons preclude putting an American on a works Honda MotoGP team, Edwards has just seen fellow American Nicky Hayden get the MotoGP ride of his dreams.

It’s left Edwards seriously disenchanted.

He’d already agreed to leave Honda and join Ducati for 2003 with a shot at the Italian company’s MotoGP team, but that ride will go to Troy Bayliss, so Edwards has lost out on a shot at a 2003 MotoGP ride twice.

This is what Edwards told Roadracing World GP Editor Mat Oxley about the news that newly crowned AMA Superbike Champion Hayden will ride a works Honda RC211V in MotoGP next year: “I’m looking forward to Imola, but after that, with all this shit that’s goin’ on with Honda, I just need to go home and relax. It feels like someone’s ripped their foot out of my ass real fast!”

Edwards confirmed that Hayden will ride in the Repsol Honda team.

From a press release issued by Suzuki:

FANTASTIC FOUR WINS SUZUKI GSX-R WORLD CUP

Suzuki GSX-R Cup Final, Race Two Result, Magny Cours, France, September 14th:

OLIVIER FOUR won the second dramatic GSX-R Cup race and took the overall Suzuki GSX-R World Cup title for himself and France at Magny Cours today.

Four, 25, who won the first race yesterday by a convincing margin, only took the lead with one-lap to go when his Italian rival Giuseppe Fiorillo out-braked himself going on to the start finish straight.

“That was harder than yesterday,” said Four, the reserve rider for the Suzuki Endurance Race Team which will take part in the Bol d’Or 24-hour Masters of Endurance event later in the day. “As long as I finished in front of Giuseppe Fiorillo, I knew I could win the title. Giuseppe came past me with a lap to go and then made a mistake which let me back in front. I then rode defensively. I am very proud to win this event at my home track and in front of my home crowd. It is a good result for Suzuki France as well.”

Fiorillo, 32, was gutted to have finished in runners-up position. He said: “Coming to the last lap, I went down one gear too many while braking for the last corner and the bike had a big slide. I am disappointed not to win, but pleased to take second spot in the event for Italy.”

It was Fiorillo’s team mate Luca Conforti who led for most of the race. But he was knocked off his bike in yesterday’s race and was out of contention for the title. With just over one-lap to go, he let his team mate pass into the lead and then watched in despair as he made a mistake and Four went on to win.

“I had no chance for the overall victory, so I pulled over for Giuseppe with a lap to go. He made a mistake and Four won the race,” said Conforti, 27. “I could have won the race easily today. I led for the first eight-laps and my tyres were good, but I rode for my team. Maybe next-time I will win both races.”

It was between the USA’s Jason DiSalvo and the UK’s Steve Brogan for the final spot on the overall podium which is made up from the combined results of both races. DiSalvo, 18, took the fastest lap of the race and fought his way from 11th to fourth in 10-laps to edge the Englishman. DiSalvo said: “I got the hole-shot and then I went backwards to 11th. My tyres took a while to heat up but then when I got my act together, I got the fastest lap. It’s good to be on the overall podium for the USA.”

American Kevin Schwantz, the 1993 500cc World Grand Prix Champion and the 1988 winner of the Daytona 200 on a Suzuki GSX-R750, took the top three riders overall on two parade laps of the circuit after the second race. He sees a bright future for the GSX-R Cup.

Schwantz said: “I rode in the Transatlantic series in the ’80s, but it always ended up more of Britain versus America. The GSX-R Cup allows teams from all around the world to compete and everybody stands a chance of winning. It is a better mix and it makes for really exciting racing.”

Suzuki is hoping to organise another GSX-R Cup Final in 2003 after the success of this year’s event.

Race Two Result:
1: Olivier Four (France) 17:42.262
2: Giuseppe Fiorillo (Italy) +0.448
3: Luca Conforti (Italy) +1.550
4: Jason DiSalvo (USA) +3.419
5: S Charlton (Australia) +4.160
6: John Dugan (USA) +4.566
7: Steve Brogan (UK) +5.781
8: S Jond (France) +8.220
9: KH Henemann (Germany) +8.530
10: L Pini (Italy) +9.736
11: F Heidger (Germany) +12.609
12: Brian Livengood (USA) +16.926
13: J Tangre (France) +18.318
14: RDV Molen (Netherlands) +30.425
15: J Hurtado (Spain) +30.704
16: J Matrtensen (Germany) +36.897
17: RK Valderhaug (Norway) +38.441
18: Zenon Nelson (Canada) +40.870
19: Tim Easton (Canada) +41.670
20: G Roelens (Belgium) +45.991
21: C Pfeifer (Austria) +56.951.


Final Points Standings: 1: Four 40
2: Fiorillo 34
3: DiSalvo 26
4: Brogan 24
5: Dugan 21
6: Jond 17
7: Hennemann 17
8: Conforti 15
9: Charlton 13
10: Heidger 11
11: Livengood 8
12: Hurtado 8
13: J Kirkham (UK) 8
14: Pini 7
15: Tangre 6
16: T Fluckiger (Switzerland) 5
17: Molen 2.


More, from a press release issued by DiSalvo’s team:

TEAM AMERICA GRAND PRIX RACING
PRESS INFORMATION

THIRD PLACE FOR DISALVO IN SUZUKI WORLD CUP

Team America’s Jason DiSalvo emerged with a pair of fourth-place finishes to take an impressive third overall on aggregate in the Suzuki GSX-R World Cup Final at Magny Cours in France this weekend.

Spurred on by former World Champion Kevin Schwantz and in front of 80,000 fans, the 18-year-old from Batavia, New York overcame a strong international challenge to follow up his fourth-place finish in Friday’s first leg with a similar result in Saturday’s leg two to take the final rostrum position on combined points.

In the opening race, DiSalvo overcame a race stoppage before the UK’s Steve Brogan narrowly beat him after the pair enjoyed a race long battle and it took Brogan to set the fastest lap of the race – 1:44.910 – to claim the last spot on the podium.

But it wasn’t easy for third-place-qualifier DiSalvo who, despite getting a good start in the second race also, faded back in the early stages as he fought to get heat into the road-based tires but as soon as they were up to temperature, he started charging through the field going from 11th to fourth place.

“I realized that in Europe that they don’t use a white flag to indicate the final lap and I thought there was more laps to go! The tires took some time to heat up but as soon as I got going, I could pick up the pace again. To finish top American rider and beating some top Europeans is great for me,” said Jason.

Team Owner Jim DiSalvo was equally happy with the result:
“We’ve spent a lot of time in Europe and to gain this result is very satisfying. Jason rode well and to beat the likes of Steve Brogan who is a top rider in the UK is even more pleasing.”

From a press release issued by Monstermob Ducati:

MONSTERMOB DUCATI BRITISH SUPERBIKE TEAM

Round 12 – 2002 MCN British Superbike Championship, Mallory Park

Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2002

SECOND FOR HISLOP AND EASTON

MonsterMob Ducati rider Steve Hislop kept his championship aspirations on course with second fastest time in this afternoon’s Superpole to start Sunday’s races alongside pole setter Michael Rutter.

Despite suffering from an upset stomach, Hislop became the fastest man ever around the 1.3 mile Leicestershire circuit before local ace Rutter edged him out by a tenth of a second but was happy enough after a number of niggling problems had blighted his weekend.

“I’ve struggled all weekend around the Hairpin and Bus Stop and whilst things are better, it’s not perfect. The power delivery is so unpredictable I’ve nearly been over the bars a couple of times. I was going so slow through the bus stop, it felt like I was waiting for one! But I’m happy with the front row, especially as I’ve felt ill all day, and it’s important for me to be ahead of Sean (Emmett)” said the Scot.

Indeed if Hislop manages to repeat the feat and finish ahead of Emmett in both of Sunday’s 30 lappers, it will be mission accomplished and he will land his first title since 1995.

Also gunning for glory will be Supersport rider Stuart Easton who just needs three points to be guaranteed his first championship.

The 18 year old from Hawick set second fastest time aboard the 748cc MonsterMob Ducati and is still undecided as to how to go about the task in hand which will see him clinch the title with a 13th place finish even if main rival Scott Smart wins.

“I’m confident as I did the times on a race tyre and not a qualifier. My plan for the race is to try to get a good start and play it from there. If I’m comfortable running at the front I’ll stick at it but if they’re all over me, I may have to have a rethink. I just need to finish,” said Easton.

Superpole Result:
1. Michael Rutter (Ducati) 46.584
2. Steve Hislop (MonsterMob Ducati) 46.692
3. Shane Byrne (Ducati) 46.813
4. John Reynolds (Suzuki) 47.231
5. Sean Emmett (Yamaha) 47.426
6. Glen Richards (Kawasaki) 47.432
7. Karl Harris (Suzuki) 47.588
8. Dean Ellison (Ducati) 47.710
9. Steve Plater (Yamaha) 47.726
10. John Crawford (Suzuki) 47.763

Supersport Qualifying:
1. Simon Andrews (Honda) 49.306
2. Stuart Easton (MonsterMob Ducati) 49.328
3. Michael Laverty (Honda) 49.415
4. Rob Frost (Kawasaki) 49.437
5. Scott Smart (Honda) 49.485
6. Jeremy Goodall (Suzuki) 49.753
7. Danny Beaumont (Yamaha) 49.779
8. James Buckingham (Yamaha) 49.826
9. Tom Tunstall (Suzuki) 50.005
10. Ben Wilson (Honda) 50.018

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By David Swarts

Hyper Cycle Suzuki’s Vincent Haskovec won the WSMC Toyota Cup Unlimited Race and the Open Superstock sprint on his Dunlop-equipped Suzuki GSX-R1000s; Lee’s Cycles’ Jeremy Toye was first in 750cc Supersport, 750cc Modified Production and 750cc Superbike; and Tommy Hayden won the 650cc Superbike and WSMC Formula Two races on his Kawasaki ZX-6R Saturday at Willow Springs International Raceway.

Haskovec and Graves Motorsports Yamaha’s Chuck Graves dueled for 12 blistering laps–lap times in the high-1:21s–in the WSMC Toyota Cup Unlimited Race. Graves held the early lead but ran wide twice. Capitalizing on Graves’ second mistake, Haskovec took the lead from Graves on lap four. As Haskovec led the final eight laps, Graves looked to be sizing up a last-lap move. A backmarker, however, got in Graves’ way on the final lap, securing Haskovec’s win.

Further back than normal, Toye finished third on his GSX-R1000. Toye said he is still trying to set up his bike after adding new hardware to it for the WSMC Toyota 200 race on Sunday.

Riding a GSX-R1000, Team Orthopedics’ Jack Pfeifer held off Hayden to finish fourth. Hayden brought his Kawasaki 600 home in fifth with Team Embry/Roadracingworld.com’s Geoff May sixth on a Pirelli-slick-shod GSX-R750 Superbike. Jeff Stern, Andrew Nelson, Marte Cooksey and Mark Watts rounded out the top 10.

Later in Saturday’s race program, Haskovec came from behind on his Suzuki GSX-R1000 to beat Yamaha YZF-R1-mounted Graves by half a wheel in Open Superstock.

After crashing unhurt in Saturday-morning practice, Graves skipped most of his WSMC races except for the Toyota Cup and Open Superstock events.

Toye turned high-1:22s on his GSX-R750 to beat Haskovec in 750cc Superstock. Toye then took a runaway victory over Frank Aragaki and Cooksey in 750cc Superbike. Toye’s third win came in 750cc Modified Production.

Young gun Jason Perez led the first lap of the 650cc Superbike race with Jacob West, Jeff Dixon, Kenny Kopecky, Robbie Dowie and Hayden in hot pursuit. Kopecky faded, but the remainder of the five-rider group battled fiercely including going into turn one five-wide at one point. After too many passes to keep track of, Hayden took control of the race on lap three. On lap four, Hayden turned a 1:23.86, the fastest lap of the race, and cruised home to win ahead of Dowie.

Perez and West were close behind Dowie on lap five when Perez fell in turn two. Perez lowsided directly in front of West, who couldn’t avoid the fallen teenager and ran over his arm. West also crashed, destroying his Yamaha YZF-R6 in the incident. The full extent of Perez’s injuries were not known at post time.

Dixon took third in 650cc Superbike with Canadian teenager Andrew Nelson closing fast in fourth. Kopecky placed fifth.

Hayden returned to win the eight-lap Formula Two event by over eight seconds. Dowie was holding off Nelson through most of the race, but a slower rider in turn four on the last lap forced Dowie to check up. Nelson made the pass and held on to take second over Dowie.

Dowie beat Nelson earlier in the day in 600cc Modified Production with Dixon third.

Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By Beth Wyse

Vesrah Suzuki clinched the overall WERA National Endurance Championship and the Heavyweight Superbike class Championship by winning a 6-hour race at Texas World Speedway Saturday.

Tray Batey and John Jacobi rode the Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R1000 to a four-lap margin of victory.

Semoff Brothers Racing led much of the race before crashing. The SBR Suzuki GSX-R750 ridden by Glenn Szarek and Joe Prussiano wound up fifth overall.

Team Xtreme’s Suzuki GSX-R1000 ridden by Billy Ethridge and Robert Jensen finished second overall, with Army of Darkness one lap behind in third. Mark Crozier and Jim Williams shared the AOD Suzuki GSX-R600, which ran in the Mediumweight Superbike class.

Team Chicago earned its first victory of the season in the Mediumweight Superstock class on a Yamaha YZF-R6 ridden by Dan Schmitt, Steve Karson and Phil Caudill; the team finished eighth overall.

Local team Scotty’s Speed Shop won Lightweight Superbike on a Suzuki SV650 ridden by Scott Fisher, Mark Gifford, Phillip Fish, Craig Montgomery and Scott Stevens, with a two-lap margin of victory.

An Aprila RSV1000 ridden by Herd of Turtles finished 19th overall and first in the Heavyweight Superstock class. Travis Pierce, Alan Blair, Link Harris, Dustin Daniels and Scott Lapierre rode for the team.

OVERALL RESULTS:
1. Vesrah Suzuki (Tray Batey/John Jacobi), Heavyweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 186 laps

2. Team Xtreme (Billy Ethridge/Robert Jensen), Heavyweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 182 laps

3. Army of Darkness (Mark Crozier/Jim Williams), Mediumweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R600, 181 laps

4. Bent Racing (Jim Bishop/Ty Stranger-Thorsen), Mediumweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R600, 181 laps

5. SBR (Glenn Szarek/Joe Prussiano), Heavyweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R750,
179 laps

6. Cycle Therapy (Cole Regal/Ricky Ford/Neil Mummau/Shane Stoyko), Heavyweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R1000, 176 laps

7. Crash Clinic (Paul Hellawell/Bill Lesur/Scott Crawford/Larry Locklear), Heavyweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R750, 174 laps

8. Team Chicago (Dan Schmitt/Steve Karson/Phil Caudill), Mediumweight Superstock, Yamaha YZF-R6, 173 laps

9. Team Life (Joe Milanesi/Kevin Warner/Justin Marm), Mediumweight Superstock, Yamaha YZF-R6, 173 laps

10. 14k The Movie (Mike Swank/David Alley/Arthur Diaz), Mediumweight Superbike, Suzuki GSX-R600, 172 laps

This just in:

HONDA RACING INFORMATION

Nicky Hayden will contest the 2003 MotoGP class in WGP

Mr. Suguru Kanazawa, President of HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) confirmed today in Rome that Nicky Hayden, the 21-year-old AMA Superbike Champion in 2002 “will contest the 2003 MotoGP World Championship on a RC211V Honda,” as announced yesterday evening during the American Honda dealers convention in Chicago (USA).

“We are happy Nicky is joining road racing Grand Prix next year,” added Mr. Kanazawa, “even if we don’t know yet which team he will cooperate with, as we announced our 2003 strategy some weeks ago in Brno.

“As Honda is a global player, we are proud to say that we are going to race in the World Championship leading class, as MotoGP is, with European, US and Japanese riders – the three leading motorcycle markets in the world.”

From a press kit released by American Honda:

CBR600RR

Introducing the all-new CBR600RR! Inspired by Honda’s conquering RC211V five-cylinder MotoGP bike, the CBR600RR’s revolutionary GP-derived technology and design is destined to dominate on the track and street.


Features & Benefits

Unique CBR600RR Features

• Unit Pro-Link(r) rear suspension and swingarm design inspired by RC211V.

• Dual Stage Fuel Injection system features two injectors per cylinder.

• High-revving engine redlines at 15,000 rpm.

• New-style center-up exhaust system.

• Centrally located fuel tank increases mass centralization and allows more compact frame design.

• New Line Beam Headlight features three-piece reflector design.

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Engine/Drivetrain

• All new liquid-cooled DOHC 16-valve 599cc four-stroke inline four-cylinder engine features oversquare bore and stroke of 67mm x 42.5mm.

• High-revving engine has 15,000-rpm redline (CBR600F4i redlines at 14,200), wider powerband and more over-rev than CBR600F4i.

• New engine is more compact-engine length is now 236mm vs. 266mm-which helps move the rider forward 70mm.

• New iridium-tip spark plugs improve fuel combustion and performance.

• Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) system features two injectors per cylinder-one upper and one lower-controlled by an ECU that senses rpm and throttle opening. Lower injector enhances rideability while upper injector improves top-end horsepower. At lower rpm only the lower injector is working. Above 5500 rpm both injectors are activated. The system uses 40mm throttle bodies.

• New Denso injectors with 12 laser-drilled holes deliver a finely atomized fuel mixture for optimum combustion efficiency and power.

• Auto enriching system is integrated into PGM-FI module, eliminating the need for a manual choke.

• Two-stage ram-air system provides a high volume of cool air to the airbox for linear power delivery and incredible engine performance.

• Airbox volume increased to 15 liters (compared to CBR600F4i) for improved performance.

• Cylinder head features angled valve inset to improve air flow.

• Cylinder head features two springs per intake valve and two springs per exhaust valve for optimum high-rpm valve operation and durability.

• Direct shim-under-bucket valve actuation ensures high-rpm performance and durability and offers 16,000-mile maintenance intervals.

• New lighter pistons, piston pins and nutless connecting rods contribute to higher revving engine.

• New double-pivot cam-chain tensioner improves cam chain durability.

• Starter gears moved to the right side for increased lean angle.

• New lightweight aluminum oil cooler.

• Center-up muffler design increases lean angle and reduces wind drag.

• Smooth-shifting close-ratio six-speed transmission is closely matched to the engine’s powerband.

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Chassis/Suspension

• Completely new die cast aluminum frame utilizes new manufacturing methods to provide optimum rigidity while reducing weight. Frame is tuned for precise handling characteristics.

• Large, 45mm cartridge front fork offers rebound and compression damping and spring preload adjustability.

• New Unit Pro-Link rear suspension system is patterned after RC211V GP racer. In this system, the upper shock mount is contained within the swingarm rather than the frame. With no top frame-mount for the shock, this unique system eliminates negative suspension energy from being transmitted into the frame, allowing optimum frame rigidity and improved rideability out of corners. The HMAS shock offers rebound and compression damping, and spring preload adjustability.

• Rear swingarm technology derived from RC211V.

• Braking system features twin four-piston front calipers, dual 310mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc for optimum stopping power.

• New center-up exhaust system features four-into-two-into-one design for increased performance and aerodynamics.

• Handlebars located below top triple-clamp for precise handling.



Additional Features

• Industry-leading ergonomic design features maximum rider comfort for minimum fatigue in all riding conditions.

• Centrally mounted 4.8-gallon fuel tank is positioned low in the frame, increasing mass centralization and allowing a more compact design. This design positions the rider 70mm forward for optimum handling.

• New plastic tank shell cover protects tank and airbox.

• New Line Beam Headlight features three- piece reflector design (first in the world) utilizing two H7 bulbs for optimum light distribution, and unique compact design.

• New instrumentation is more compact and features tachometer, speedometer and fuel gauge.

• Attractive hollow-spoke aluminum alloy wheels feature race spec 3.5 x 17-inch front and 5.5 x 17-inch rear dimensions.

• Increased radiator capacity to match increased engine performance.

• New one-piece fan assembly increases cooling efficiency.

• Maintenance-free battery.

• Optional seat cowl.

• Compact rear cowl storage compartment for U-type locking devices (lock not included) under the passenger seat.

• Folding aerodynamic mirrors.

• Integrated ignition switch/fork lock for added security.

• Convenient push-to-cancel turn signal switch.

• Transferable one-year, unlimited mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

• Ownership includes one-year complimentary Membership in the Honda Rider’s Club of America(tm). Benefits include discounts, travel benefits, roadside assistance and much more. For HRCA(r) details, call 1-800-847-HRCA.


Specifications

Model: CBR600RR

Engine Type: 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder

Bore and Stroke: 67mm x 42.5mm

Compression Ratio: 12.0:1

Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder

Carburetion: Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI)

Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping

Transmission: Close-ratio six-speed

Final Drive: #525 O-ring-sealed chain

Suspension
Front: 45mm HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Rear: Unit Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.7 inches travel

Brakes
Front: Dual 310mm discs with four-piston calipers
Rear: Single 220mm disc

Tires
Front: 120/70ZR-17 radial
Rear: 180/55ZR-17 radial

Wheelbase: 54.7 inches

Rake (Caster Angle): 24.0°

Trail: 95mm (3.7 inches)

Seat Height: 32.3 inches

Dry Weight: 370 pounds

Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve

Colors : Red/Black, Black, Pearl Yellow

California version Meets CARB 2004 emissions standards.




More, from a press release issued by American Honda:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Honda unveils 2003 motorcycle models in Chicago

Chicago, IL— American Honda’s Motorcycle Division unveiled 8 new and updated models — including five early-release 2004 models — at the company’s annual dealer show Thursday night, September 12, at the Navy Pier in Chicago.

Representing the continuing theme of Honda’s branding strategy “Performance First”, the new products are designed to strengthen Honda’s position in the American powersports market. Since 1999, Honda has introduced or redesigned
more than 70 percent of its motorcycle, scooter and all terrain vehicle (ATV) models.


Included in Honda’s announcements are two cruiser models, one super-sport motorcycle, two off-road bikes, one scooter, one ATV, and a new 2-passenger 4-stroke personal watercraft model.

The assembled dealers, who have already benefited from over 30 new Honda product launches in the previous 3 years, were enthusiastic about the new offerings. Honda’s product lineup, already the broadest in the industry, grew to over 60 motorcycle, scooter, ATV and personal watercraft models.

Honda Motor Ltd. President, Mr. Hiroyuki Yoshino, reminded dealers of the importance of the U.S. market, “It was Honda motorcycles that established the Honda brand in America. The U.S. market has always been important to our motorcycle business — not only as a place to sell our products, but a place that influences our product direction”

Yoshino continued with a strong environmental message, “Together with ‘performance first,’ we also put the environment first. Introducing 4-stroke technology throughout the lineup and other new technologies that will make our products more friendly for the environment – even as we advance our performance image.”



2003 New Model Preview


CBR600RR
With the CBR600RR and the CBR600F4i in the line-up for ’03, Honda has aimed both barrels at the middleweight class. The new CBR600RR is a masterpiece of technological innovation, designed to supplement the wildly popular CBR600F4i. The CBR600RR borrows heavily from Honda’s very latest racing technology, in the form of the V-5, RC211V that has practically worn a hole atop the MotoGP winner’s podium.


Ruckus
If you’ve got the merest pinch of mechanical sense running around your brain, you just have to split an ear-to-ear grin when you see the new Honda Ruckus. This scooter fairly drips with personality, and your imagination immediately begins to work overtime dreaming up possible uses and applications. Trips around town, wheels for the college campus, a little runabout on family camping trips-the Ruckus can do it all.


AquaTrax R-12X
Leave it to Honda to come up with the world’s first two-passenger, intercooled, turbocharged, four-stroke, personal watercraft. The AquaTrax R-12X follows in the footsteps of the AquaTrax F-12X, and carries the promise of one of the most agile and stable hull designs imaginable.

For sport-minded riders, the 2003 AquaTrax R-12X is going to set new–and higher–levels of performance that will take the market by storm.


2004 New Model Preview


Valkyrie Rune
Do you remember the T2 concept bike Honda revealed in the March/April 2001 issue of Honda Red Rider? Essentially, the Valkyrie Rune takes the T2 concept to the production line, and will be available in limited numbers. The Valkyrie Rune incorporates a unique diamond-shaped aluminum frame for robust strength along with light weight, plus a fuel-injected 1832cc engine based on the GL1800 power plant. Before you think the Valkyrie Rune is merely a hot-rod exercise in radical style, take a look at the bike’s innovative suspension systems.

Meanwhile, styling element after styling element tears at your eyeballs, vying for attention. Where to look? At the chromed cylinder head covers evocative of muscle car hardware? The gorgeous, smoothly flowing six-into-two exhaust system so artfully sculpted into place? The brawny disc brakes, which are the largest ever mounted on a Honda motorcycle? Or how about the gracefully flowing lines of the neo/retro low-slung bodywork with the solo seat that beckons you to slide aboard for the ride of your life?

The Valkyrie Rune redefines the ultimate performance custom.


VTX1300C
The new-for-2004 VTX1300C capitalizes on its forerunners’ success in two different areas: the mechanical soundness and fine overall balance of the recently introduced VTX1300, plus the muscular hot-rod styling treatment of the original VTX1800C.


CRF250R
Honda, the undisputed leader in four-stroke Performance First power, introduces the latest innovation in no-compromise motocross race bikes: the all-new 2004 CRF250R. Hot on the heels of the race-winning and award-winning CRF450R, this new all-out racer will dominate 125cc-class competition alongside the CR125R.

Whether you’re a Veteran Class racer looking for the inherent advantage of a broad four-stroke power delivery or you’re a young gun seeking a traction advantage in the ultra-demanding 125 class, with the new 2004 Honda CRF250R you’ll dust the guys who aren’t Riding Red.


CRF250X
Take what is basically the all-new CRF250R and put a button on the handlebar that’s connected to a lightweight, electric starter. That’s a sure-fire formula for building the most serious off-road motorcycle to enter the dirt market in a long, long time. Meet the brand-new CRF250X: X marks the spot where you’ll find a full-on, competition-oriented, off-road machine, coming from Honda.

FourTrax Rancher AT
Just because the FourTrax Rancher has been the best all-around ATV the world over for years doesn’t mean Honda’s hard-working engineers couldn’t carve out a little room for improvement. So 2003 brings the new 2004 Honda FourTrax Rancher AT with redesigned styling, a larger engine and a next-generation successor to the legendary HFT automatic transmission, plus an optional version with GPSCAPE®, a GPS unit to ease navigation chores.


About Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through Honda authorized dealers. For further information about Honda products, racing teams, programs, and dealer locations, visit the Honda web site at: www.honda.com.

From tardy press releases issued by series organizers:

STUART NODELL IS 2002 CHAMPION

By virtue of his pole position and second place finish in the final round of the series on September 1st, Stuart Nodell is the 2002 Diablo Paintball Can-Am 125GP Challenge Champion.

Nodell was the model of consistency on his Canada Post sponsored Honda RS125. Nodell never finished lower than third at any race this year andqualified on pole twice.

Stuart had not intended to race the series this year. He rented a bike from series organizer John Bickle for the first two rounds this year, then bought a bike from Japan after he had finished second and third in the opening two rounds.

Stuart would like to thank his tuner Ben Gartner who helped him to secure his 125 from Japan.

Stuart Nodell is sponsored by the following:
Canada Post, CROSSBEAM.COM, Absolute ADventures, EBC Brakes, WASP Performance, Ben Gartner, Joel Nodell, Kelly Haughton, Norm & Valerie Nodell, Lindsey Nodell, Cassandra Alexopoulos, Ashley Alexopoulos, Peter Gartner, and Sarah Gartner.


LOGAN MYERS WINS CAN-AM 125 GP CHALLENGE RISING STAR AWARD

Logan Myers, the 15-year-old rider from Wheeler, MI is recognized by the series as one of the outstanding up and coming riders in North America.

While the Can-Am series does not make a distinction between Expert and Amateur riders, Myers was the top finishing Amateur rider in the series this year. Logan, who has also been recognized by the AMA Dirt Track series as a rising star finished seventh in the Can-Am series championship this season.

One of the driving forces in why series organizer John Bickle put this series together was for young riders like Myers to be featured and develop in a professional series.


ANDREW HILLIER WINS CR125 DIRTBIKE

As part of their title sponsorship package Diablo Paintball donated a CR125 dirt bike to be given away in a drawing at the final round of the
series.

Riders who entered all six rounds of the series were given three entries, riders who entered five races were given two and one entry was given for riders who entered four races.

Diablo Paintball CEO Richard Italia drew the winning name on the podium after the final round of the series, and Andrew Hiller of Toronto, ON was the winner.

Hillier, who competed in all six events this year, finished 17th in the series championship and was the fourth overall Amateur.