Inside Motorcycles Breaking News Blog

Ducati - Canadian Connection Part 1

2011-12-21T12:13:00.006-05:00

Ducatista wannabes across the country, rejoice! Here's your chance to join the club.

Thanks to a partnership with the National Bank/Banque Nationale, Ducati has launched the "Freedom Of Choice" event, a finance offer with a great introductory rate of 5.45% on all new Ducati models in Canada. And yes, this applies to the 1199 Panigale.

In celebration of the promotion, Ducati has launched a brand new, dedicated Canadian website at www.canada.ducati.com. The online portal is specific to the Canadian market, providing direct access to everything Ducati.

The "Freedom Of Choice" offer ends on March 1, so head on over to your neighbourhood Ducati dealer and ride away a Ducatista!

For more information, visit the new www.canada.ducati.com.

BMW Motorrad Brings Maxi-Scooters to Canada

2011-12-20T13:13:00.009-05:00

BMW Motorrad Canada recently announced their 2012 product and pricing updates for the Canadian market, including the introduction of the C600 Sport and C650GT Maxi Scooters. In an effort to address growing traffic volumes, rising energy costs and increasing pressure on CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency, BMW, as part of their strategy for sustainable mobility, are introducing these two premium vehicles in the maxi-scooter segment.

According to BMW Motorrad, "The BMW C600 Sport and C650GT combine the outstanding riding characteristics of a motorcycle with the agility, weather protection and comfort of a scooter, creating a whole new dynamic riding experience."

Conceptually unique, the two BMW maxi scooters appeal to a wide target group: The C600 Sport is aimed at riders with sporting preferences, while the C650GT has been designed for customers who place a great emphasis on comfort and touring capability. Both BMW maxi scooters incorporate the unique, modern and dynamic design language of BMW Motorrad.

Both the C600 Sport and the C650GT come with a powerful 2-cylinder water-cooled inline DOHC four-valve engine with a displacement of 647cc. Both models are equipped with electronic fuel injection and have a class-leading output of 60hp at 7500rpm, with maxium torque of 48.7 ft-lb at 6000rpm.

The suspension design of the C600 Sport and the C650GT features a tortionally rigid hybrid interconnection of tubular steel bridge frame and diecast aluminium unit at the swingarm bearing with the engine functioning as a load-bearing member. Up front, an upside down fork presents a generous fixed fork diameter of 40mm. The rear employs a reclining spring strut on the left side. The overall objective being to combine direction stability at highway speeds with agile handling in city traffic, just like a motorcycle.

Both maxi-scooters also come equipped with duel 270mm disc brakes with double-piston floating calipers and a single 270mm disc with double-piston caliper at the rear.

The C600 Sport comes with a world premiere FlexCase/ variable stowage space concept in the tail section under the seat, while the C650GT gets large stowage space of about 60 litres in the rear. Both are able to accommodate two helmets.

As with all BMW Motorrad products, a full range of accessories are also available.

According to BMW Motorrad, pricing for the new BMW Maxi Scooters will be announced in the Spring of 2012 and will reach dealers in the Fall of 2012 as 2013 models.

Additional 2012 product announcements from BMW Motorrad Canada included the introduction of the new G650GS Sertao, part of the BMW Enduro family. Echoing the previous-generation F650GS Dakar, the Sertao offers greater off-road practicality, with equipment and design graphics reflecting the more rugged orientation. The G650GS Sertao has an MSRP of $9,750.00

Products that get significant upgrades for 2012 include the S1000RR superbike which we reviewed previously, as well as the BMW F800R.

CMA Elects Directors & Officers for 2012

2011-12-16T19:14:00.000-05:00

The Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA) held their Annual Meeting of the members of the Association in Hamilton, Ontario on Thursday, December 8th. A number of elections were made including:

Board of Directors with a mandate ending in 2013:

• David Hewgill, Calgary, Alberta

• Paul Imrie, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

• Hugh Lim, Ajax Ontario

Continuing on the Board with a mandate through 2012 are:

• Joseph Godsall, White Rock, B.C.

• Holly Ralph, Ancaster, Ontario

At a Board of Directors Meeting held immediately after the AGM the following elections/appointments took place:

Elected:

• President - Joseph Godsall

• Vice President - Hugh Lim

• Member Executive Committee - Paul Imrie

The President, Vice President and CEO (ex officio) are automatically members of the Executive Committee.

The CMA theme for 2012 is "APPRECIATE THE PAST - EMBRACE THE FUTURE - FOCUS ON YOUTH"

Further information about the CMA can be found online at www.canmocycle.ca

Jordan Szoke Joins HotLap TV

2011-12-15T22:22:00.002-05:00

HOT LAP, the motorcycle racing reality TV game show is pleased to confirm Jordan Szoke as its newest cast member. Szoke will be appearing as Team Coach and Technical Advisor for the production, which starts filming at the most famous racetracks across North America in 2012.

“HOT LAP is a great concept for a motorcycle television reality show,” says Jordan. “I am looking forward to coaching the team to win on the most challenging race tracks in the world.”

Jordan is the most winning Superbike Champion in Canadian history, finishing his seventh Superbike championship in 2010 with an unprecedented perfect season. Jordan is the owner of Waznie Racing, a successful privateer team, and has successfully worked with most major bike manufacturers and premium racing brands capturing a total of seventeen No.1 plates during his career.

“Clearly this is a big win for HOT LAP” said Andrew Shaw, producer of the show. “Having Jordan Szoke on board with this production raises our profile within the industry and the team is excited to have a world class champion as our coach.”

HOT LAP gives amateur riders a chance to race at ten of the fastest tracks in North America. Featuring amateur riders, the series is the first motorcycle racing game show where challengers race for the fastest lap of the day to win a ticket to attend the season grand finale episode

HOT LAP launches its TV production at the International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW January 6-8, 2012, where a track day riders casting call is being held to attract some of the 100,000 plus attendees to sign up for a chance to participate on the show as a challenger.

Canadian Dan Kruger: Endurance Race Report from China

2011-12-13T08:47:00.002-05:00

Team Kawasaki/BG finished 2nd in Free Practice, took Pole in Qualifying by only 100th of a second (On the first flying lap), and led the first 2 laps of the 103 lap, 3 Hour Endurance Race at Zhuhai on December 11th. The team swapped the lead with Factory Yes Yamaha and it was starting to appear to be more of a 3 Hour sprint race until about half way through when Yamaha encountered some engine problems. They pitted and rolled out the other bike. The rules in this event allow for 2 bikes and 2 or 3 riders on the track for 45 minutes at a time maximum.

Team Kawasaki/BG consisted of regular Dan Kruger from Canada and Alan Vilches Alejes from Spain. Alan currently competes in the Spanish 1000 Superstock Championship also on a Kawasaki. They made a good team today as they both followed the strategy 100% and as a result, brought home the win in convincing fashion. Alan was new to this track but picked it up pretty fast.

According to Dan Kruger: “I was pleased to have the quickest lap time of the event barely dipping into the 1:39's. Considering the weather and track conditions, I was pleased with that time and the Kawasaki ZX10 traction control played a key role in today's victory. Ending the season beating the YES Yamaha Team only makes me wish the 2012 season was already here. This was my 2nd Endurance race in 10 days, the last one being at Phillip Island for 8 hours. We finished 3rd in 1000Superstock and 10th Overall in that event”

Dan will be back over in China testing a Moto 2 machine in late December. January will be mainly training and a break. He will return to testing in February and racing for 2012 begins in March. The team expects to announce a major sponsor within 2 weeks if all goes according to plan.

FIM CUP: Effenbert Liberty Racing signs Canadian Brett McCormick

2011-12-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

(PRAGUE) - Liberty Racing is pleased to announce the signing of rider Brett McCormick. The Canadian champion will be part of the new team competing in the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup in 2012.

The talented 20 year-old, coming off a season in which he dominated the MOPAR Canadian Superbike Championship, is an experienced racer. He rode BMW RR1000 in the final rounds of the 2011 FIM Cup (in France and Portugal). In October, Liberty Racing invited him to participate in private tests in Portimao on the Ducati 1098F. He delivered a positive performance.

McCormick is the second rider signed to the team, which was formed to support and advance young riders; a priority for Liberty CEO Dr. Mario Bertuccio and the team.

The Superstock team will campaign the new 1199 Panigale, which is replacing the successful 1098F.

Brett McCormick’s first official appearance on the new Ducati masterpiece is scheduled for February 13 during a three-day test session at Australia's Phillip Island circuit.

Commenting on the news, McCormick said, "It has been my goal and my dream to race in the world championships, and I have to thank the Effenbert-Liberty team for giving me a test in Portimao. Their team and bike are among the best, and they are serious about winning, so I plan to return their faith in me by putting the team colours at the front! At the test I found the bike to be the best I’ve ever ridden. And working with the team from both a technical and human standpoint was awesome, so I can’t wait for the season to start!”

From Effenbert Liberty Racing

Ontario gets a newly formed Supermoto Club; Supermoto Ontario

2011-12-08T23:51:00.004-05:00

from Supermoto Ontario

Kitchener, Ontario - Supermoto Ontario is a newly formed club focused on promoting Supermoto riding/ racing in Ontario. The club is incorporated as a non for profit organization and is made up of a board of directors who are all riders passionate about the sport.

Supermoto racing in Ontario reached its peak around 2005 and has been in a decline ever since. The club is working to change this by rebuilding the sport in Ontario from the ground up. Supermoto Ontario will be organizing open track days for the 2012 season where riders will be able to come and participate on a Supermoto specific track. The goal is to increase participation and add racing to the 2013 schedule.

The track will be setup in the parking lot of the Shell truck stop in Drumbo, Ontario (between Kitchener and Woodstock) directly off hwy 401 at exit 250. The lot is freshly paved, has a very large area to work with and an area for a dirt section to be constructed. These track days will be focused on inexpensive fun with instruction available onsite.

For those of you who have an Offroad/MX bike and have always wanted to try supermoto, now is the time! To get your bike setup properly it is as simple as swapping out your knobby tires to something non-knobby like a dual sport or flat track racing tire. Mounting a fluids catch can and axle sliders is required for safety. Supermoto is one of the cheapest disciplines of motorcycle riding and racing.

A website for Supermoto Ontario has been setup at www.supermotoontario.com. When finalized, the event schedule will be posted on the website. There is a bunch more info there on Supermoto including what it takes to get your bike setup, what it needs to pass technical inspection as well as pictures and videos.

Supermoto Ontario will be present at the North American International Motorcycle Super Show this coming January 6-8 at the International Centre in Toronto. Please come by our booth to check out some bikes, videos and get all of the info you will need to get out riding Supermoto with the club. A special thanks to the Super Show for donating the booth space to the Club.

For more information please visit the club website: www.supermotoontario.com or send an email to supermotoontario@gmail.com

Supermoto Ontario is sponsored by NineOneNine Designs, Maxima Oils, Artisan Complete and SuperShow Events.

BMW Motorrad Canada Announces 2012 Road Racing Program

2011-12-08T13:50:00.001-05:00

BMW Motorrad Canada has announced their 2012 road racing competition program. If you are interested in purchasing a new S1000RR for the sole purpose of competing in the Canadian Superbike Championship, there is a special competition package available from any BMW Motorrad Retailer. This program is open to any PRO or AM licensed racer while supplies last. Packages are limited so act fast.

Competition Package:

Option #1 – 2011 S1000RR $12,500 (Very limited while supplies last)
Option #2 – 2012 S1000RR $13,500

Both options include: A new S1000RR, Race ABS, Dynamic Traction Control, BMW Gear Shift Assist, One complete spare set of wheels and a $1000 parts support credit. *Additional options if requested and retailer prep are extra.

Competition Package Requirements

• A copy of a current and valid Canadian roadracing license
• Provide the retailer and BMW Motorrad Canada a race resume complete with projected 2012 activities

National Contingency Program: Canadian Superbike Championship – National Series

Pro Superbike Class Amateur Superbike Class
1st $2500 1st $1000
2nd $2000 2nd $600
3rd $1400 3rd $400
4th $1000 4th $300
5th $700 5th $250
6th $400
7th $300
8th $250
9th $150
10th $100

CSBK Superbike Championship Bonus:

PRO Superbike Class $10,000
AM Superbike Class $5,000

BMW Motorrad Contingency Requirements
• Official series results will only be accepted.
• Only Canadian spec S1000RR models qualify for contingency.
• There must be a minimum of 10 competitors start the race to qualify for contingency.
• The BMW logo and “BMW Motorrad” must be present on both sides of the motorcycle fairings.
• A colour photo must be submitted with the request for contingency.
• BMW Motorrad Canada Roadracing Program Registration form must be submitted each time.
• No regional contingency program will be offered at this time.

Please feel free to contact Chris Duff ( chris.duff@bmwgroup.ca) at BMW Motorrad Canada if you have any additional questions about the 2012 BMW Motorrad Canada Roadracing Program.

Ducati Panigale comes to Toronto Motorcycle Show

2011-12-08T10:14:00.002-05:00

By far one of the most popular motorcycles on display at the EICMA Motorcycle Show in Italy last month, the highly acclaimed 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale makes its way to Canada.

This year, for the first time in Canada, Ducati brings their 1199 Panigale to the Toronto Motorcycle Show. This bike, direct from Italy, boasts an all-new Superquadro engine that uses titanium valves, vacuum die-cast crankcases, race-derived pistons and the traditional Desmodromic valve system. Also included is eight-position traction control and Brembo radial monobloc brakes. This new model is setting the benchmark high in Superbikes. Come and check out this beauty first at this year’s Toronto Motorcycle Show.

The Toronto Motorcycle Show takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre this weekend, December 9-11, 2011. For show hours and ticket information please visit www.torontomotorcycleshow.ca

Inside Motorcycles 2011 Holiday Buyers' Guide... great gift ideas!

2011-12-07T11:21:00.001-05:00

The Inside Motorcycles Holiday Buyers' Guide is full of great gift ideas for the two-wheel enthusiasts on your list. Support the businesses that support the Canadian motorcycle and motorsports communities! Click on the flip book below to open the document on your computer.

Click to launch the full edition in a new window

CSBK Returns to Mont-Tremblant in 2012

2011-12-06T10:35:00.004-05:00

As was rumoured back in late September, The Canadian Superbike Championship will indeed return to Circuit Mont-Tremblant in Quebec next year.

According to a December 6 press release, from Frontline SBK, the national event will take place at Le Circuit on August 10-12 and marks the Canadian series' first visit to Tremblant in five years.

“We’re very excited about the 2012 return to Mont-Tremblant,” explains CSBK’s Kevin Graham. “It’s a premier venue that all competitors, sponsors and crew really enjoy. The CSBK team and its loyal partners continue to strive towards the betterment of national roadracing in Canada. We have a very large and loyal following in Quebec and it is great offer another event at such a prestigious venue.”

The scenic and challenging 4.275 km track first hosted Canadian Superbikes in 2003, with the last round being held in 2007. According to track manager Vincent Loughran, the venue is planning a week full of bike activities leading up to the weekend event.

Expect more details on the 2012 Canadian Superbike Championship season to be released during this weekend's Toronto Motorcycle Show.

(photo courtesy blogtremblant.com)

Catch the Action at the Toronto Motorcycle Show

2011-12-03T11:40:00.006-05:00

The Toronto Motorcycle Show is less than one week away, taking place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from December 9-11, 2011.

While you're there, be sure to catch your favourite riders and journalists being interviewed live on the Go Tour Ontario Interview stage. The schedule for the weekend is as follows:

Go Tour Ontario: Interview Stage

Friday December 9th

11:00: Pat Milligan The Canadian Race Communications Association

12:00: Superbike Super news: Kevin Graham and Colin Fraser are joined by Rahul Dua.

12:30: radX BMW Superbike team: Brett McCormick and Micheal Ferrera.

1:00: Motorcycle Mojo Magazine presents Irish motorcycle author Paddy Tyson.

1:30: Mike Jacobs from Tour Ontario and Kristopher Garvie, Inside Motorcycles Amatuer Sportbike Champ

2:00: Vintage Road Race Association Dan Gosen and Steve Hoffarth

2:30: Andrew Murray news from FOGI

3:00: John Gilbank Touring Mexico

3:30: Patrick Trahan Out of Africa

4:00: Canadian Superbike has a New Sponsor Kevin Graham, Colin Fraser and our new partner's representative.

4:30: Think FAST Michel Mercier and Rahul Dua

5:00: She Rides Night with Liz Jansen

5:30: Lise Grenier and Barbara Wynd

6:00: Toni Sharpless and Kathleen Cobourne

6:30: Sue Cannell with YRA girl and Mx girl

7:00: "Ass Class" by Lissa Hill Leathers

7:30: Gwen Roberts Vicki Schouten and Nancy Irwin

8:00: Alex Carroni Laura Lang and Karen Hodgson

8:30: "Ass Class" Lissa Hill Leathers

9:00: Sandra Hinksman and Durham Divas

Saturday December 10th

10:30: A morning meeting with motorcycle magazine men: Graeme Jones of Inside Motorcycles, Glen Roberts from Motorcycle Mojo and Neil Graham of Cycle Canada

11:00: Inside Motorcycles Sportbike Champ Kristopher Garvie and AMA Flat Track star Doug Lawrence

11:30: The Bookmakers Paddy Tyson, Don Empey and Liz Jansen

12:00: "The Kid" is now the champ Brett McCormick and his radX BMW Superbike team mate Michael Ferrera

12:30: The History Makers Deeley H-D dirt track champ Don Taylor and Honda CBR Challenge champion Stacey Nesbitt

1:00: Patrick Trahan "The desert is my home."

1:30: Mike Jacobs from Go Tour Ontario

2:00: Jodi Christie Honda's Pirelli Pro Sportbike Champion and Golo Racing's Rahul Dua

2:30: John Gilbank Mexico by Motorcycle

3:00: CRCA Pat Milligan

3:30: Rene Cormier The University of Gravel Roads and Emily Roberts undergraduate.

4:00: Ask the students, see their results Michel Mercier of the FAST Riding School

4:30: The Vintage guys Dan Gosen and Steve Hoffarth

5:00:

5:30:

6:00:

6:30:

7:00:

Sunday December 11th

10:30: Paddy Tyson will he ever find Faglioli

11:00: Kristopher Garvie and Donald Taylor fast fellows from different facets.

11:30: Syacey Nesbitt, Emily Roberts and Liz Jansen

12:00 radX BMW Superbike team Brett McCormick and Michael Ferrara

12:30: Michel Mercier of FAST, Marty Cooper of CRCA and Golo Racing's Rahul Dua

1:00: John Gilbank Mexico motorcycling spoken here

1:30: Mike Jacobs Tour Ontario

2:00: Darren James fast suit from Deeley H-D and Andrew Murray news from FOGI

2:30: Craig Jones Tour Northumberland

3:00: Rene Cormier The value of time. Patrick Trahan making wishes come true.

3:30: A vintage view with Steve Hoffarth and Dan Gosen.

4:00:

For ticket information and show hours for the Toronto Motorcycle Show, visit www.torontomotorcycleshow.ca . Be sure to stop by the Inside Motorcycles booth and get the latest issue!

Szoke and Parts Canada Reunite for 2012

2011-12-01T15:59:00.002-05:00

Waznie Racing and Jordan Szoke are excited to continue their successful relationship with Parts Canada for 2012. Szoke and Parts Canada worked together for a successful season in 2011 finishing the Canadian Superbike Championship season with a win at Mosport International Raceway. A narrow defeat in the bid for the Superbike Championship, with a margin of only 10 points, Szoke and Parts Canada line themselves up for an exciting 2012 season. Szoke will continue to represent Parts Canada by representing Alpinestar leathers, HJC helmets and Thor dirt gear.

The 7 time Canadian Superbike champion says “I am very excited to work with Parts again for 2012. There are many products that they carry that co-exist with our current committed sponsors which makes branding of our team just that much better for everyone involved. It is such a positive statement for our industry that companies are still continuing to support roadracing. Mosport had one of it’s biggest spectator attendances in 2011, it’s good to see that a company like Parts can still see the value in marketing through our sport.”

Watch for Szoke competing for his eighth Superbike title during the Canadian Superbike Championship, whose schedule is expected to be announced December 9th 2011 at the Toronto Motorcycle Show.

Toronto Motorcycle Parking: Benefits Outweigh the Costs

2011-12-01T12:41:00.012-05:00

Free motorcycle parking in Toronto may soon come to and end if Toronto budget chief Mike Del Grande and Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam get their way. In a recent report from the Toronto Sun, Del Grande was quoted as saying about motorcycles, "They burn gas just like everyone else. You take a parking spot, you pay what you pay for cars." Del Grande and Wong-Tam are encouraging other council members to consider charging for motorcycle parking in Toronto.

Inside Motorcycles caught up with Daniel Tessier, President and CEO of the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada, to get his views on the matter. According to Tessier, "Six years ago, the City of Toronto demonstrated real traffic management leadership by providing free street parking and other improvements for motorcycles and motorized scooters. But the City is about to take a step back if it continues with a proposal to enforce parking charges and fees for motorcycles." Tessier notes that from a strictly functional point of view, parking receipts tend to disappear from parked motorcycles resulting in unwarranted fines. He also points out that by taking up less space on the road, motorcycles have less of an impact on road infrastructure thereby saving municipal dollars. Further, the existing program to encourage free motorcycle parking compliments the Ontario government's tourism strategy to attract motorcyclists from border provinces and states.

Tessier went on to explain the benefits of free motorcycle parking and noted that not only should the parking program be preserved , but the city would benefit from the implementation of a motorcycling strategy. Tessier suggests a traffic safety management strategy could result in less accidents by opening up the lines of site at busy intersections by reserving parking spaces for motorcycles. "Reserving the last parking space at major intersections for motorcyclists would provide systemic allocation of motorcycle parking space. This traffic management approach would ensure uncluttered and clear lines of site for all road users, reducing the number of crashes at intersections involving motor vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. The City would save emergency response; but more importantly, it would save lives and reduce injury."

RACE Superseries Announces 2012 Schedule

2011-12-01T12:05:00.002-05:00

The RACE Superseries has announced their 2012 road racing schedule with six rounds taking place at Shannonville Motorsport Park (SMP). The series has also expanded the number of race schools being offered in 2012, including six schools throughout the season, scheduled on the Friday prior to each race weekend. The full schedule is as follows:

2012 RACE Superseries Schedule:

May 4-6: SMP Long Track

June 22-24: SMP Pro Track

July 20-22: SMP Long Track

August 11-12: SMP Pro Track

August 31- September 2: SMP Long Track

September 21-September 23: SMP Pro Track

2012 RACE Schools:

May 4: Shannoville Motorsport Park

June 22: Shannonville Motorsport Park

July 20: Shannonville Motorsport Park

August 11: Shannonville Motorsport Park

August 31: Shannonville Motorsport Park

September 21: Shannonville Motorsport Park

The 2012 RACE Test Days will take place on April 21 (SMP Fabi) and April 22 (SMP Nelson), while two Vintage Road Racing (VRRA) Festival dates have also been added June 1-3 and July 13-15, 2012.

Further information and a detailed schedule can be found online at the Shannonville Motorsports Park website.

Inside Motorcycles Wants You to take part in the Toronto Motorcycle Show

2011-11-29T13:28:00.002-05:00

Motorcycle clubs, associations/rides and not-for-profit motorcycle groups take note: Inside Motorcycles wants you to be a part of the Toronto Motorcycle Show, December 9-11, 2011 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

The Toronto Motorcycle Show is excited to announce that Inside Motorcycles is the new presenting sponsor of their reformatted "Rider's World" area. Be a part of the exciting Premier Manufacturer Showcase Show, the only one of its kind in Ontario, where the major manufacturers bring in their new models!

Your Investment:

$200.00 + HST for a 10X10 booth space that includes décor.

Your Value in Return:

Booth space plus carpet, table & two chairs. Regular booth value is over $1500.00

PLUS Inside Motorcycles wants to PROMOTE YOU!

As part of your booth space cost above, you will receive the additional from Inside Motorcycles:

1. One NO charge 1/4 page ad in an issue of Inside Motorcycles- $600.00 value;

2. Editorial coverage in an issue of Inside Motorcycles on one of your major rides or events of the season;

3. Discounted subscriptions to Inside Motorcycles for all your members and families.

SPACE IS LIMITED! ONLY 20 booths available!

For further information please contact Neal Diefenbaker at neal@sportshows.ca or call 905-361-2679.

We look forward to seeing you at the Toronto Motorcycle Show, December 9-11, 2011!

Please note: Booth space costs will not be reduced for any groups wanting to bring in their own décor items or not wanting to participate in the advertising package being offered.

Canadian Team FOGI Racing Brings Home Second Place Finish At Jerez

2011-11-24T14:51:00.001-05:00

From FOGI Racing

Jerez, Spain – Canadian motorcycle road racing team FOGI Racing with Scottish rider Kev Coghlan finished on a high Sunday at the final round of the Buckler CEV Moto2 Championship held in Jerez, Spain. Coghlan finished an admirable 2nd place after qualifying 10th on the starting grid.

Within the first lap the young Scot battled through to 2nd position and held off #4 Dan Linfoot until Linfoot passed Coghlan on the 9th lap. Coghlan returned the pass in lap 14 taking him back to 2nd position. Charging for the lead on his FOGI/FTR M211 machine, he took the checkered flag 0.601 seconds behind the race winner Lucas Mahias.

Coghlan was asked about the race and replied, “I’m very happy with a P2 result in tricky conditions to finish off the year!! Big thanks to everyone at FOGI Racing, Honda Joe Darcey Team, and everyone else involved.”

Following the final World Championship round at Valencia FOGI Racing received their FTR M211 Moto2 machine back from the Avintia STX team were Kenny Noyes piloted the FOGI FTR to a strong final round finish as well. With this bike as well as a M210 version already in Valencia, FOGI Racing invited Coghlan back to the team to take part in the final two rounds of the CEV Spanish Moto2 Championship.

In the penultimate round of the CEV series at Valencia Kev ran extremely well until a decision on tyre compound proved to be the wrong choice. Settling for 7th in Valencia, he used the time to reacquaint himself with the FOGI Racing FTR and the Michelin tyres, while planning for a strong finish to Jerez.

Following an emotional podium finish for the FOGI Racing team and team manager Miguel Gomez who had worked with Kev in 2010, FOGI Racing would like to take a moment to thank Honda Joe Darcey Team for all their support in these last two rounds, along with the exceptional team headed by Miguel Gomez and Anton Gruschka.

FOGI Racing is now planning to build its team for 2012 and 2013 in hopes to bring young riders the opportunity to prove themselves on the world stage, as part of the Buckler CEV Spanish Moto2 Series, and the World Championship MotoGP Series. Further information on the FOGI Racing team can be received by contacting Andrew Murray at (902) 499-3610 or amurray@fogi-racing.com

Supershow Snags Honda Canada

2011-11-23T11:46:00.004-05:00

On the heels of a recent announcement that Canadian Kawasaki Motors will be participating in only one Toronto-based motorcycle show this winter, the North American International Supershow reports that Honda Canada will also be returning to the popular consumer show held at the Toronto International Centre in Mississauga from January 6-8, 2012.

In a recent press release from the North American International Motorcycle Supershow, the organization notes that Honda Canada is finalizing arrangements to once again exhibit at the show. According to the press release, the Honda Corporate Booth will be located in Hall 3 and will feature the Honda motorcycle and ATV 2012 line-ups, including the best selling CBR250R, plus their extensive line of Honda Power Equipment.

According to Nick Pollice, of Honda Canada, "The Honda Canada booth will be the booth to visit this year at the North American International Motorcycle Supershow 2012. We look forward to seeing you there!"

The recent move calls into question the future of the upcoming Toronto Motorcycle Show being held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from December 9-11, 2011. With the December show traditionally the venue for manufacturers to launch their latest product to the Canadian market, the question remains whether other manufacturers will also see the North American International Motorcycle Supershow as the premiere venue to launch new product offerings. In today's economy, consolidating a number of trade shows in one market certainly makes fiscal sense.

To purchase advance tickets to the 36th annual North American International Motorcycle Supershow or to become an exhibitor, please call 1-888-661-SHOW (7496).

DualSport Plus Christmas Open House

2011-11-21T14:31:00.002-05:00

DualSport Plus in Stoney Creek, ON is having a Christmas Open House this Saturday, November 26. The event will be highlighted by the attendance of rally rider Patrick Trahan, organizer of Ride Africa 4 Wishes program.

The Opne house will run from 9am to 4pm on Saturday. For more information contact DualSport Plus at:

Phone: 905-664-8811
Toll Free: 1-888-990-9013
www.dualsportplus.com

221 Barton St., Unit I,
Stoney Creek, Ontario
Canada, L8E 2K3

Canadian Kawasaki to Participate at International Motorcycle Supershow

2011-11-21T08:40:00.007-05:00

From the North American International Motorcycle Supershow

Newmarket, Ontario: Breaking news from North America’s Largest Attended Motorcycle Show lights up the Motorcycle Industry as Canadian Kawasaki Motors announces that they will debut their complete 2012 motorcycle offering during the 36^th Annual North American International Motorcycle SUEPRSHOWat the Toronto International Centre, January 6, 7, 8, 2012.

A huge move made by Kawasaki to solely participate in only on show in Toronto market this year. Motorcycle enthusiasts will be able to see the complete range of 2012 Kawasaki models at the Kawasaki Corporate display in Hall 3 where they will be featuring the North American Debut of the Versys 1000, along with the All-New and highly anticipated Ninja ZX-14R. The Kawasaki Corporate Booth will be one of the most exciting and busiest displays at any Motorcycle Show this year, and will only be found at the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW in Toronto.

“Canadian Kawasaki is pleased to be returning to the North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW stated Claude Gagne, National Sales and Marketing Manager. This show has always played a significant role within the Ontario market place and Canadian Kawasaki is excited to present our strong mix of 2012 models to the enthusiasts that frequent this show each year.” For more information on the complete 2012 Kawasaki model line-up visit Kawasaki online at www.kawasaki.ca

The 36th annual North American Motorcycle SUPERSHOW takes place January 6-8, 2012 at the International Centre. To purchase advance tickets or be an exhibitor at the show please call 1-888-661-SHOW (7469).

DP Brakes announces two North American National Road Racing Championships in 2011

2011-11-18T16:13:00.002-05:00

From a Press Release from DP Brakes

BUFFALO, NY. – DP Brakes has announced two Road Racing Championships in North America for 2011.

In the AMA Pro Racing Eastern and Supersport National Series, James “The Rocket” Rispoli took the overall Championship in both with DP Brakes.

Rispoli said, “What an awesome 2011 season I had. Winning my first AMA Pro Racing Supersport Championship in the eastern division and also the National title along with The Young Gun Award in the same year was almost unreal”.

He added, “ I can honestly say I would not be here if not for the awesome stopping power of my DP Titanium Race Pads. Time and again I was able to overtake my competitors by going in deeper, and braking later, with confidence. Also, with no brake fade, they allowed me to hold a lead and cross the stripe on top. This could not have happened without the consistent performance of my DP Brakes.”

DP Brakes also won the Parts Canada Pro Canadian Superbike Championship with Rad X/BMW Motorrad rider Brett McCormick.

Rad X/BMW Motorrad Team manager, Chris Duff gave credit to the DP Brakes RDP X-Race Titanium compound.

He said, “The Rad X/BMW Team was proud to once again use DP Brake Pads in our S1000RR bikes for 2011. The stopping performance provided our team riders to be able to brake late, with confidence and trust that the brake feel is the same fromlap one to the end of the race and ultimately achieving a championship”.

“We are truly honored to be associated with such high profile teams and individuals. We congratulate them on such a terrific year of racing and are very proud to part of their success.” stated Larry Mills, President of DP Brakes North America.

Mills continued, “All riders were using our New High Performance RDP X-Race Titanium brake pads. Results have so far proven that we have a compound available to be competitive with all other brands and even show an upgrade over those. The superb initial response, incredible feel and fade free performance puts us at the top of the charts”.

These RDP X-Race Titanium Brake pads are available exclusively through Parts Unlimited, in the US, Parts Canada.

For more information on the complete line-up of DP Brakes brake pads, shoes, rotors and clutch kits, contact DP Brakes North American Headquarters/Tony Mills International Inc. at 4401 Walden Avenue, Lancaster, NY 14086, (716) 681-8806, or visit them on the web at www.dp-brakes.com .

Milan: EICMA Motorcycle Show Round-Up

2011-11-10T15:57:00.030-05:00

This week we had the opportunity to head to EICMA, the 69th International Motorcycle exhibition in Milan, Italy. Truly the largest Motorcycle Exhibition in the world, EICMA did not disappoint with the unveiling of several new 2012 models. With over 1400 exhibitors covering more than 58,000 m2 of exhibit space, the show was nothing short of overwhelming.

Perhaps the hottest topic of the show was the all new 2012 Ducati Panigale. A next generation Superbike, the Panigale V-Twin will be run by a powerful "Superquadro" engine putting out a claimed 195 HP. It looks stunning as well.

The BMW S1000RR also gets a number of refinements for 2012. Just when you thought one of the world's best-selling Superbikes couldn't get any better, BMW has trimmed down the bodywork, made some changes to the chassis and the electronics to translate into a much smoother ride for enthusiasts of all levels. For 2012, the S1000RR is also available in 4 different colour schemes including this distinct blue model.

BMW also launched their new line of "Urban Mobility" scooters, which include a 600cc and 650cc scooter that is expected to prove quite popular in Europe, and BMW expects, the rest of the world too.

KTM has been a popular booth to visit, as they unveiled several new motorcycles for 2012 including a 200cc street bike, a 650cc street bike and a 350cc "Freeride" dirt bike that also comes in an Electric version. Unfortunately, we are told that none of these models will be available in North America for 2012. The 200cc street bike is shown here.

KTM has also stepped up it's racing efforts, with the introduction of their Moto3 bike, which will be raced in the World Championship MotoGP series in the new Moto3 class in 2012.

Moving over the Japanese manufacturers, Kawasaki had their new ZX14R on hand. The fastest accelerating production motorcycle ever made and with the most power production engine ever built, expect to see this motorcycle winning at drag strips around the globe.

Honda introduced several new models for 2012 including the CBR 1000RR Fireblade Superbike and the CBR 250R. The Japanese manufacturer also released the Crosstourer, a maxi enduro bike that will unfortunately not yet be available in Canada. The all new CBR 250R is shown here.

To complete the new 2012 Superbike round up, Suzuki and Yamaha also introduced their new models, the 2012 GSXR1000 and the R1 50th Anniversary edition respectively.

Yamaha's 2012 YZF-R1 comes in 50th Anniversary edition colours:

Also new for 2012 is the Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200. While we weren't able to snag a photo of this new adventure touring beauty, this all new shaft-driven motorcycle from Triumph should prove a powerful contender to the BMW 1200GS.

In addition to the 2012 Tiger Explorer, Triumph also unveiled their all new 2012 Daytona 675R sport bike. Decked out in full Ohlins trim, this motorcycle is ready for the racetrack.

There was simply so much to see and capture at EICMA that we couldn't possible catch it all, but these are the highlights. Below are some more images from the show in no particular order.

BMW's 1600 GTL Touring Bike will be tough to beat.

The scooter market is really picking up, with signs of Scooter racing as well!

A look inside the Ducati Panigale Superquadro power house:

Even the Province of Quebec was on hand! Motorcycle tour in Quebec? Why not!

And of course there was lots of fun, extreme stuff kicking around too....

The 2012 models will be available for viewing in Canada starting with the Toronto Motorcycle Show from December 9-11, 2011. You won't want to miss it!

Spring bike show moves to March

2011-11-09T22:08:00.000-05:00

From SUPERSHOW Events

TORONTO, ON -- The 2012 SPRINGSHOW at Toronto's International Centre will expand into Halls 1, 2, 3 and 3A, on new dates of March 17-18, while also holding Halls 4 and 4A for future growth.

“For a number of years the Motorcycle SPRINGSHOW’s major new motorcycle exhibitors have requested earlier dates to better accommodate their Spring sales timing," said show manager Peter Derry. "We are happy to report that the International Centre, recognizing the growth needs of the SPRINGSHOW, has now been able to reorganize available dates to accomplish a realignment of available halls.”

The Motorcycle SPRINGSHOW will now exhibit on over 200,000 square feet at the International Centre, the established venue of choice for thriving powersports consumer shows, providing an excellent opportunity for exhibitors to expand with the Show and allowing attendees to enjoy a greater shopping experience with larger displays and feature areas.

The SPRINGSHOW, now in its 22nd year, has established itself as the leader in Spring retail motorcycle shows and attracts record numbers of motorcyclists to the International Centre to shop for all that’s new in motorcycling and plan for a new year of great riding. SPRINGSHOW details are available at www.supershowevents.com.

First Look: 2012 BMW S1000RR Superbike

2011-11-09T15:05:00.010-05:00

When BMW first introduced the S1000RR superbike in 2009, it quickly became one of the best selling superbikes on the market; and it was no slouch on the racetrack either, proving itself right out of the box in the Canadian Superbike championship, and taking the 2011 Championship title.

So how does a company take a top selling, near perfect sportbike and make it even better? We caught up with Markus Poshner, Head of Model Lines 2, BMW Motorrad at the EICMA trade show in Milan. Poshner oversees the development of all of the "S" and "K" series BMW motorcycles, and admits that the S1000RR is "his baby".

For 2012, BMW brought about some refinements to the S1000RR; small changes that would bring about a significantly improved and easier to handle ride. For starters, BMW addressed some concerns about a hyper-sensitive throttle in "race" and "slick" power modes. New maps were introduced for the different power modes, and a new throttle tube was installed with a shorter pull for better handling. The throttle also gets heated grips, the first superbike ever to do so, and something Canadian consumers may well appreciate!

A new exhaust pipe was also installed, giving the S1000RR more mid-range power and a more linear power curve, ultimately making the BMW's powerful superbike easier to handle.

The chassis was also modified with changes to the swingarm and pivot point, as well as the geometry of the front forks. The front end of the motorcycle was raised 5mm, while the shock length was decreased by 4mm. The engine and mainframe are turned slightly backwards and the wheelbase was shortened by 9mm as the rear sprocket was replaced with one-tooth smaller sprocket. The 2012 model also gets a 10-way adjustable steering damper for better control and smoother operation.

According to Poshner, the electronics package on the S1000RR has totally changed. The Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) system was updated significantly and the traction control is now much smoother than the first generation S1000RR. The instrumentation panel is much easier to read and more features are available. One new feature in particular is the "Best Lap in Progress" option that records a rider's best lap on given markers on the racetrack. A green light is displayed if you went faster than your previous lap. The brightness of the display is also adjustable in five settings.

Aesthetically, the BMW S1000RR got some re-shaped side panels and a smaller, more streamlined tail section to help with aerodynamics. The 2012 model is also available in 4 sharp colour options- Racing Red with Alpine White, Bluefire, Sapphire Black Metallic and BMW's traditional BMW Motorrad Motorport colours.

The overall refinements should lead to a much smoother, easier handling ride and will make the BMW S1000RR superbike more comfortable to handle for riders of all levels. Judging from the line-ups at EICMA to see the new S1000RR, we're certain that BMW is going to continue to top the charts with this best-selling superbike.

Bautista to Gresini Honda in 2012

2011-11-09T09:49:00.004-05:00

The San Carlo Gresini Honda MotoGP team confirmed much anticipated rumours today that Alvaro Bautista will ride for the Honda satellite team in 2012. The parties have reached an agreement for the 2012 MotoGP World Championship season, which will see Bautista campaign the Honda RC213V.

With Suzuki unable to confirm their plans for MotoGP beyond December 31, 2011 Bautista held out for as long as he could before he accepted the offer from Gresini. According to Bautista, "I am very sad to be leaving Suzuki after the two great years that I have had here. It has been a great team to work in and I have learnt a lot of things from everyone in the team...I don't feel like I am leaving a team, but a group of friends that I hope I will know for a long time."

Gresini's boss, Fausto Gresini noted, "I'm particularly satisfied that Alvaro Bautista will ride a Honda R213V in the San Carlo Gresini team colours next year. He is a very fast rider and I hold him in high regard for his personality and pleasant nature."

While Bautista has had his fair share of ups and downs during the 2011 season, he has demonstrated his talent in the latter half of the season with some strong results in qualifying and practice and indeed has become a sought-after rider in the paddock. He hasn't had the greatest of luck during Sunday's races, but perhaps that will all change in 2012 aboard the Honda machinery.

Bautista tested the RC212V Honda in Valencia this morning, where he rode the motorcycle of Hiroshi Aoyama in the Valencia MotoGP test.

Hall of Fame photos

2011-11-08T23:39:00.014-05:00

Canadian legends honoured

2011-11-08T23:01:00.004-05:00

Eleven of Canada's most influential motorcycle competitors, builders and enthusiasts were honoured this past Sunday at the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.

Inside Motorcycles was on hand for this prestigious event held at the Delta Meadowvale Hotel & Resort in Mississauga, ON. It was a memorable night with some of Canada's biggest two-wheel legends reminiscing on stage about their storied careers.

The display and showcase featured an array of bikes including Reuben McMurter's 1984 Honda VF 750 R that he raced to sixth at Daytona and 3rd overall in AMA Superbike that same year. Other bikes on display included a pair of Allan Johnson's rare Brough Superiors, one of the late Moe Fraser's flat track bikes and Len Dillon's speedway bike. Toni Sharpless and Kathleen Coburn had a wonderful display of memorabilia from their racing heritage.

Inside Motorcycles would like to congratulate all of the inductees and thank the MCC for an unforgettable ceremony. Watch for more in-depth coverage to appear in an upcoming issue of IM!

MotoGP: Exciting Season Finale in Valencia

2011-11-06T10:59:00.011-05:00

The 2011 MotoGP season was nothing short of spectacular in a cloudy Valencia today, with Casey Stoner narrowly claiming his 10th victory of the season catching Ben Spies at the wire.

While the race had been declared wet, most riders swapped to slick tires immediately prior to the start. Slippery conditions made traction difficult and the first casualties came in turn one off the race start. Rizla Suzuki's Alvaro Bautista started a chain reaction when he fell down, taking out Pramac Ducati rider Randy de Puniet, who proceeded to take Factory Ducati teammates Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden with him. While all riders were forced to retire, the race continued and recently crowned World Champion Casey Stoner got away with the lead.

A battle for second quickly ensued between Stoner's team mates, Dani Pedrosa and Andrea Dovizioso, who were also battling for third place in the championship. Factory Yamaha's Ben Spies, showed no signs of relent and was right on the wheels of the two Repsol Hondas.

With less than ten laps remaining, Spies made a pass on Dani Pedrosa to move into third. The Factory Yamaha rider was on the move and within a few laps quickly overtook Andrea Dovizioso for second place. While Stoner was still a few seconds ahead, Spies was not about to let up, and started reigning in the World Champion. According to Stoner "I wasn't really willing to push (in the rain) and everybody else was willing to take more risk or felt more comfortable in those conditions."

Spies was able to make a move on Stoner with less than 4 laps remaining when Stoner made a mistake and his motorcycle went into neutral. Stoner made quick work to catch up but with only two laps left the victory looked to belong to Spies. With the checkered flag at the ready, Spies brought his Yamaha onto the front straight for the final time, yet Stoner managed to get a better drive out of the corner and make the pass at the wire to reclaim the lead. Andrea Dovizioso would round out the podium in third.

According to Spies, he decided to sit on the back of Pedrosa and Dovizioso and wait to see what happens. An opportunity came up and he made some passes, and all of sudden rain came, yet he was feeling comfortable. He mentioned that the last few laps were tough because there was nobody in front of him and there was no benchmark as to how slick the conditions were. Spies exlplained, "At that point I was like okay, let's try to win the race but we gotta try to keep this thing on the podium." After the last month of bad luck he wasn't willing to throw it all away again. Overall Spies was happy to end the season on a high note.

Cal Crutchlow made the chase for the Rookie of the Year Award, by making a late pass on Dani Pedrosa to take home an astounding 4th place finish, moving Pedrosa back to 5th. Yamaha Factory test rider rode home to a 6th place finish after an early battle with wild card rider Josh Hayes. In an exceptional effort for his first ever MotoGP race, American Superbike Champion Josh Hayes guided the Tech3 Yamaha to a 7th place position; Hayes also topped the charts in morning warm-up by leading the session with a time of 1:40: 469.

Karel Abraham, Loris Capirossi, Toni Elias, Hector Barbera and Hiroshi Aoyama rounded out the remaining positions while De Puniet, Bautista, Rossi and Hayden did not finish the race.

Today's race marks the end of the 800cc MotoGP era, as the series moves to the more powerful 1000cc machines in 2012. It also marked the last race of Loris Caprirossi's 22 year-long career.

MotoGP Tribute to Marco Simoncelli

2011-11-06T05:43:00.004-05:00

The MotoGP community paid tribute to Marco Simoncelli in Valencia today, in a special lap of the Ricardo Tormo circuit in honour of the fallen rider. At 10:10am local time, riders from all three classes lined up for a procession which was led by Simoncelli's Honda Gresini RC212V bike, ridden by 1993 World Champion Kevin Schwantz.

In the spirit of Simoncelli's spirited character, a two-minute fire cracker display and moment of "noise" took place to celebrate the Italian rider. Members from Marco's family, friends, Dorna, IRTA and FIM governing bodies, racers and fans from the paddock were all invited to participate in the emotional ceremony which took place on an overcast day in Valencia prior to the start of the afternoon's race finals.

Bradl Crowned Moto2 World Champion

2011-11-05T16:37:00.005-04:00

Germany's Stefan Bradl was crowned the 2011 Moto2 World Champion in Valencia, Spain today following the withdrawal due to injury of his biggest challenger, Marc Marquez. The twenty-one year old Bradl is the first German to take a motorcycle world championship since Dirk Raudies in the 125cc class in 1993.

The son of World Championship runner-up and 250cc ace, Helmut Bradl, Stefan attributes much of his success to his father. According to Bradl this championship is special as 2o years after his father was 2nd in the world championship, Bradl is now a champion himself. Bradl says of his father, "He's the biggest part in my life, supporting me from every second of racing."

Winning the World Championship is still sinking in for Bradl, as the title did not come easily. Rookie Repsol Honda rider Marc Marquez put up a strong fight, and took over the championship points lead in Motegi. It was then that Bradl decided to take an all or nothing approach to score some good results, remain consistent and take the championship title. Bradl says of his battles with Marquez, "I think everybody has enjoyed this Moto2 season. It was a very good battle in the end between Marc and me and I think there hasn't been a single race which has not been exciting. Sometimes as a rider you think 'Oh F***! Another race like that!', and you just want to go away and do your own race, but in this class everything is just so close."

For Sunday's final Moto2 race of the season, Bradl's goal is to win and enjoy the moment; "My goal for tomorrow is to win the race, because now everything is so free; I'm just enjoying racing."

Stefan Bradl is expected to remain with the Veismann Keifer Racing squad in the Moto2 class in 2012.

MotoGP: Stoner Clinches Decisive Pole in Valencia

2011-11-05T14:38:00.011-04:00

MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner clinched his 12the pole position at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia today, in decisively convincing fashion with a best lap time of 1:31:861, over a second ahead of second place finisher and Respol Honda teammate Dani Pedrosa (1:32:875). Stoner also equalled the record of five-time world champion Mick Doohan of 12 pole positions in a single season.

Track conditions were tough for this afternoon's qualifying, as the track started out wet and then began to dry up towards the end of the session. Riders have been struggling all weekend with rainy and damp practice conditions on Friday, followed by dry conditions for Saturday morning's free practice. According to Stoner, "This afternoon conditions were very tricky, some parts of the track the rain was a little heavier and you weren't sure how far to push". Conditions started to improve towards the end of the session and with under 10 minutes remaining, Stoner went out on a soft rear tire and set a lap time of 1:31:861 which would remain unchallenged for the rest of the session.

Dani Pedrosa qualified second and also struggled with the wet racetrack, "Qualifying was very tricky especially in the middle of the practice, it was a bit raining and you didn't know how hard to push."

Factory Yamaha's Ben Spies bounced back from a difficult past few weeks by clinching the third spot on the front row of the grid. "It was actually a pretty good session. It was definitely difficult like they said with spitting rain the whole time and not knowing how hard to push on certain parts of the track." Spies circulated patiently on the racetrack, keeping the tires hot in case there was a break in the weather. The strategy paid off as a time of 1:33:057 was quick enough to secure a spot on the front row.

In Moto2 action, Gresini Honda's Michele Pirro secured his first and very special position. According to Pirro, "It is a special pole position because I dedicate the pole to Marco, his family and the team." The entire Gresini Honda family has been struggling all weekend in what has been described as a "surreal atmosphere" by the entire team as the experience the gaping hole left by the loss of Marco Simoncelli. All of the riders in the Gresini Honda camp are working hard and dedicating their riding to their friend and fellow rider this weekend.

History was also made in 125cc qualifying as Mahindra Racing's Danny Webb secured his very first pole position ever, and also the last pole position in the 125cc class, which will be replaced by the Moto3 race category in 2012. Webb took a gamble going out on dry tires about half way through the session, but his feeling to switch to slicks paid off when he pulled in a best time of 1:45:898, nearly a half a second faster than second place rider Louis Rossi. Webb also noted it was an important result for Mahindra, as he and his teammate are about the only two riders in the 125cc class who are not equipped with an Aprilia or Derbi motorcycle. Webb's pole position also comes on the same weekend that Mahindra Racing unveiled its 2012 Moto3 bike.

Follow Inside Motorcycles as we continue to cover MotoGP action from Valencia. Racing takes place on Sunday afternoon in the final round of the world championship series.

MotoGP Final at Valencia: Hayes Settles In

2011-11-04T15:54:00.007-04:00

Two-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes wishes it were under different circumstances that he was to be riding the Monster Energy Tech 3 Yamaha at the MotoGP season finale in Valencia this weekend. He is replacing an injured Colin Edwards, who was involved in a an incident which took the life of Marco Simoncelli in Malaysia two weeks ago.

This weekend will mark the first time that the reigning AMA Champion has ridden the Valencia circuit, as well as his first experience aboard the powerful MotoGP livery. "I really don't belong here," said an overwhelmed Hayes on Thursday afternoon in a rainy MotoGP paddock, "I don't fit in." For those who have had the opportunity to get to know Josh, he is a humble and down to earth character. He comes into the weekend with no expectations other than to learn the workings of the Yamaha YZR-M1 equipment and to do his best to represent the Yamaha squad.

Wet track conditions during Friday's free practice sessions meant that Hayes' MotoGP debut would be a soggy one. Hayes spoke about his first day on the GP bike, "My first day in MotoGP has been very difficult and scary at times to the honest. Before I went out this morning I don't think I have ever been so nervous in my life. I was happy with my lap times this morning in the tricky conditions but then in the full wet this afternoon it meant it was quite a scary introduction to MotoGP."

While Hayes may not yet have had the opportunity to experience the full potential of the Monster Energy Tech3 Yamaha, the seasoned rider certainly appeared right at home in Valencia. Aside from an uncharacteristically (and to be expected) high level of nervousness prior to the session, Hayes managed to complete his first free practice in 15th position with a time of 1:48:037, a mere 2.524 seconds off morning leader and recently crowned World Champion Casey Stoner. During the afternoon session, Hayes was the first to get out onto the wet racetrack and quickly went to work. After turning countless laps around the 2.5 mile circuit, Hayes found himself in 10th place at the end of the session, with a best lap time of 1:50:509, again 2.5 seconds behind the leader, Suzuki's Alvaro Bautista, who had a best time of 1:47:975 on a wet to damp racetrack.

While Hayes is still learning about the motorcycle, he hopes for some dry conditions prior to Sunday's race so his has an opportunity to test the carbon brakes. According to Hayes, "I don't want to be going into the race on Sunday having to learn to ride in the dry and also adjust to the carbon brakes after two wet days. That would be the worse case scenario for me but I enjoyed today a lot. It was a good experience and once again I want to thank everybody at Yamaha, Tech3 and Monster that made this possible."

Watch for Josh Hayes and the rest of the MotoGP field to be racing the final round of the series this coming Sunday at 2pm local time. All riders have agreed that racing on Sunday is what Marco Simoncelli would have wanted, and a number of riders and teams are sporting the #58 on their motorcycles or gear this weekend in honour of the fallen Italian rider. This weekend will also mark the last race for Pramac Ducati's Loris Capirossi, who after 22 successful years of road racing, will be retiring at the end of this season. Capirossi will be racing with the #58 on his motorcycle this weekend, in honour of his friend.

CSBK planning for a successful 2012

2011-11-04T14:33:00.003-04:00

Canadian Superbike Championship series organizers Frontline CSBK sent out a much-anticipated press release regarding its plans moving forward without longtime title sponsor, Parts Canada.

"Central sponsors including BMW Motorrad Canada, Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, Honda Canada and Mopar have confirmed their intention to continue supporting the National Series," the release announced.Pirelli will also return as official tire supplier. A season schedule is currently in the works and will be announced at the Toronto Motorcycle show opening on December 9th.

One thing is for sure, and that is the return of the successful double header event at Mosport in late August. Inside Motorcycles broke the news early last month that the series was looking at running the Mont Tremblanc circuit, although nothing will be confirmed until the full schedule is released December 9th.

After a very successful first running in 2011, the H-D XR1200 class will be back and, as the press release indicates, some U.S. racers may be taking part in the Canadian series next year. CSBK also officially announced the debut of Honda's all-new youth-based CBR250R spec class on the full tour. Pro Superbike will remain the national series' flagship class, while Amateur Superbike, Pro Sport Bike and Amateur Sport bike will all remain unchanged for 2012.

(photo courtesy CSBK.ca)

BCCOM proposes lane filtering in B.C.

2011-11-01T11:02:00.002-04:00

The British Columbia Coalition of Motorcyclists (BCCOM) has written a proposal letter for the legalization of lane filtering in the province. The letter is to be discussed with B.C. Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Shirley Bond in the next two weeks, with the results of the discussion to be announced at a BCCOM meeting on November 17. The organization also mentioned that the letter would be sent to the Ministry of Transportation.

Below are some of the safety measures that BCCOM has proposed to allow lane filtering:

- The operator must operate the motorcycle no more than 10 km/h faster than the rest of traffic
- Traffic can’t be going over 30 km/h
- Lane splitting can’t be done in a school crossing zone, park area, area with a high volume of crossing pedestrians, or somewhere where the speed limit is less than 30 km/h
- Motorcyclists must never ride in between vehicles equipped with mirrors that won’t be able to see them (semi-trucks, large RV’s)

Whether the Ministries of Safety and Transportation see this proposal as a way to improve congestion and safety remains to be seen. In the U.S., similar proposals have seen resistance, with some transportation officials arguing that such legislation has no effect traffic congestion, given the fact that motorcycles make up such a small percentage of vehicles on the road in North America.

Two-wheel quarter-mile record smashed

2011-11-01T00:15:00.003-04:00

France's Eric Teboul smashed his own records for the quickest elapsed time and fastest speed ever recorded by a motorcycle in the quarter-mile during an event at Santa Pod Raceway in England this past weekend. Teboul ran an almost surreal 5.209-second lap at 281.47 mph on his hydrogen peroxide-powered Rocket Bike.

It was a fitting tribute to his late friend and rocket car legend Sammy Miller, who passed away nine years ago to the day in a non-racing accident.

Teboul admits that the bike has four-second, 300 mph potential, but stopping the motorcycle at those speeds is proving to be the biggest drawback in attempting such a feat.

Colin Edwards to miss MotoGP Final at Valencia

2011-10-28T12:43:00.006-04:00

Colin Edwards will not be riding at the MotoGP final in Valencia, Spain next week as the 37-year-old Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider is still recovering from injuries sustained at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang last weekend.

According to a news release from Yamaha Racing, "Edwards was assessed by orthopedic specialist Dr. Henry Small at the University General Hospital in Houston on Wednesday and it was confirmed he has multiple fractures to the top of his left humerus bone, which connects the shoulder to the elbow." The release went on to explain that Edwards will require surgery next Tuesday, and with a four-week recovery period, Edwards will be unable to participate in the final round of the MotoGP series in Valencia on November 6.

Updated: According to a press release from Teknic, AMA Pro Superbike Champion Josh Hayes will replace Colin Edwards on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team at the final round in Valencia, Spain next weekend. Hayes got the call from Yamaha late on October 26 asking if he would replace the injured rider. Teknic, one of Hayes' sponsors, has agreed to supply him with the suits required for his MotoGP debut.

Everyone at Inside Motorcycles wishes Colin a speedy recovery both physically and emotionally is he is no doubt also struggling with the emotional consequences of a tragic and unfortunate racing incident that took the life of fellow rider Marco Simoncelli in Sepang last weekend.

Marco Simoncelli Laid to Rest: Thousands Bid Farewell

2011-10-27T11:47:00.005-04:00

Marco Simoncelli was laid to rest today in his hometown of Coriano, Italy. Thousands of family, friends and motorcycle enthusiasts lined the streets surrounding the Santa Maria Assunta church in Coriano to bid farewell to the 24-year-old rising MotoGP star who was involved in a tragic accident at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia last Sunday.

Among those who joined Marco's family- his father Paolo, mother Rosella, sister Martina and girlfriend Kate- were his close friend Valentino Rossi, as well as Loris Capirossi, Andrea Dovizioso, Jorge Lorenzo, Toni Elias, Randy de Puniet, Sete Gibernau, and close friend and former team mate Marco Melandri as well as his 2011 team mate Hiroshi Aoyama.

Marco's casket was flanked by his Gilera bike, on which he won the 2008 250cc World Championship, and his Gresini Honda RC212V motorcycle on which he competed in the MotoGP championship.

Thousands watched from television screens outside the church, sporting #58 apparel, flags and memorabilia, while other donned their racing leathers. A television screen was also set up at the nearby Misano Circuit. #CiaoMarco quickly trended as the world said goodbye to a dynamic, energetic and spirited rider.

According to Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, "What I experienced in Coriano was very moving. After seeing the turnout of citizens, fans and the whole paddock there is no doubt that a great rider and a brilliant person has left us. The outpouring of affection that has been shown demonstrates that he has left his mark." Rest in Peace, Marco.

McCormick comes home, sets the record straight

2011-10-24T11:31:00.007-04:00

[Editor's note: Contrary to some internet reports, Canadian champ Brett McCormick has not signed on with Team Effenbert Liberty to race WSBK next year...]
Reigning Canadian Superbike Championship by Parts Canada overall number one Brett McCormick of Saskatoon, SK, has certainly been on the move of late. Following three weeks in Europe competing in SuperStock rounds in France and Spain and visiting the BMW works SBK team in Germany, McCormick has finally returned to Canada.

Now McCormick is on a road trip, relaxing and exercising while visiting race and school friends at various points in western Canada. Slated to spend Halloween on the west coast with Harley-Davidson XR1200 Cup Pro aces Darren James and Steve Crevier, IM caught up with McCormick on Sunday night, October 23, following a full day of mountain biking west of Calgary, AB.

When asked about rumours that he was slated to ride for a works supported Ducati effort on the World Superbike tour in 2012, McCormick explained that “everyone acts really interested, and it seems like there are opportunities with both BMW and maybe Ducati in Europe. It could be World Superbike, or it could be a full season on the FIM SuperStock 1000 Cup bikes.”

McCormick, age 20, competed in the final two rounds of the Superstock tour in Europe, riding for the Garnier Alpha Racing Team aboard a BMW S1000RR in a “sorta try out” arranged by BMW Motorrad Canada. After a rough start at Magny-Cours October 2 where he worked his way up to 13th overall, McCormick was happier at the series finale at Portimao October 16 where he edged his teammate to net 10th out of 29 entrants.

Superstock is considered a stepping stone for the feature Superbike class, and the rules are similar to those used in the Canadian SBK class, where McCormick won six out of a possible seven 2011 races aboard his works-supported BMW.

Following the race in Portugal, McCormick represented Inside Motorcycles at the same venue in an exclusive works machinery track test – check an upcoming issue for the Champ’s review. A strong effort during the Monday Media Day led to series tire supplier Pirelli recommending McCormick for a Ducati Superbike tire test the next day.

So on Tuesday, October 18, McCormick spent the afternoon turning 30 laps aboard the Effenbert Liberty Ducati 1098R, turning the ninth best lap time of the day. His best lap at 1:44.2 compared well with that posted by regular rider veteran Jacob Smrz in the actual second race, quickest of the day at 1:44.08.

“I’m not counting my chickens,” continued McCormick, referring to his aim of moving to the European tour next season. “I think I showed that I belong there. I feel capable of doing well in Europe, and my trip overall bodes well.”

“We should know more in a couple of weeks. My goal, I think my best chance for seasoning, is Superstock. I’d be happy to move straight to Superbike, I don’t think I’m far off the pace at all, but I think Superstock would be my first choice, to learn the tracks and get used to everything.”

SOAR announces 2012 Schedule

2011-10-23T17:32:00.003-04:00

The Southern Ontario Association of Racing has released its 2012 schedule.

The motorcycle road racing series will make four stops at Grand Bend Motorplex, a positive sign for the new road course that SOAR made their first stop at this past August. Toronto Motorsports Park, which has been the unofficial 'home' track of SOAR over the past few years, will host two events.

Round #1 May 25-27
Grand Bend Motorplex Long Track

Round #2 June 15-17
Grand Bend Motorplex Modified Track
With Thunder by the Beach all bike drag races

Round #3 July 28-30
Grand Bend Motorplex Technical Track

Round #4 September 7-9
Toronto Motorsports Park Reverse Direction

Round #5 September 28-30
Grand Bend Motorplex Screaming Alien Track

Round #6 October 12-14
Toronto Motorsports Park Regular Direction

R.I.P. Marco Simoncelli

2011-10-23T10:39:00.003-04:00

It is with great sadness that we learn today that Marco Simoncelli succumbed to his injuries in Sepang, Malaysia following Sunday's MotoGP race.

The 24-year Italian rider was involved in an accident on lap two of the Malaysian Grand Prix. The race was red flagged and later cancelled. Despite the efforts of the medical team, Marco succumbed to his injuries at 4:56pm local time.

Marco will be remembered as a vibrant, enthusiastic rider who always brought lots of energy to the MotoGP paddock. Inside Motorcycles would like to express our sincerest condolences to Marco's friends and family.

Charly Vu Returns from Red Bull Rookies Tryouts

2011-10-21T12:24:00.003-04:00

Charly Vu, the 13 year old Toronto-based motorcycle racer was the sole Canadian participant for the 2012 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Selection event at Motorland Aragon in Spain. Charly had arrived in Spain 3 days prior to the selection event in order for him to adjust to the time and climate change.

Once Vu had arrived at the Motorland Aragon Circuit on a very warm Tuesday morning, he was quite surprised to learn that the 100 participants including himself would not be riding the full GP circuit, instead they would be riding the kart track which was much more technical and more suited to the specially prepared Metrakit 125cc bikes.

Vu quickly learned the circuit and his machine during his 15 minute warm-up session. Despite slippery track conditions and worn out tires for his second session he drastically increased his confidence and speeds around the new track and as such was pushing the bike and himself to absolute limit. Unfortunately after 8 laps Vu lost the rear while exiting the final corner coming onto the front straight and was no longer able to continue due to a mechanical issue with his bike. According to Charly, "This event has motivated me even more than ever and now I want nothing more than to be over there to compete against the best."

Lorenzo's Surgery a Success; Yamaha Rider to miss Malaysian Grand Prix

2011-10-18T11:13:00.005-04:00

from MotoGP.com

Following successful surgery in Australia, Yamaha Factory Racing rider Jorge Lorenzo has now flown home to Barcelona for a period of recovery.

As already confirmed, the Mallorcan rider will miss this weekend’s Grand Prix of Malaysia. A decision on his participation in the final race of the season at Valencia will be made within the next two weeks dependent on the progress of his recovery.

“Casey has had an incredible season with very few mistakes,” commented Lorenzo. “He has always been very strong and consistent so it has been very difficult to beat him. Congratulations to him, he has been the best this year and deserves his second title, a huge achievement as it comes with a different manufacturer. I would have liked to have fought until the end, maybe until Valencia but the accident on Sunday made it impossible. I am very proud of my team for all the hard work they have put in to take second place in the championship. Now we have to think about next year and work as hard as possible to win again. After the crash I was very worried that I would not have full feeling in my finger again, after the excellent treatment I received, I have been assured that I will have complete feeling in my nerves and tendons. This gives me good confidence; I can’t wait to get back on my M1 again!”

Pirelli brings 17" Tires to World Superbike

2011-10-18T10:57:00.004-04:00

Magny-Cours (France), October 1, 2011 - Pirelli announces that starting from 2013, it will begin supplying all the tires for the World Superbike Championship, which currently are produced in 16.5", in the 17" size. This radical option will allow Pirelli to remain even closer to its philosophy, its unique approach towards competition with its continuous transferring of solutions developed in the racing environment into the hands of motorcyclists and into road going product through technologies and developments coming from the highest level production series World Championship for which Pirelli is the sole supplier.

Pirelli's 16.5" Diablo Superbike tires are currently used not only in the Superbike World Championship, but also in World Endurance, BSB and CIV which have been the reference to date. Until 2004 in fact, the unique supplier agreement did not exist in the Superbike World Championship so Pirelli adapted itself to the sizes offered by other suppliers.

In line with the primary goal of WSBK to showcase in the highest level of racing the products also sold on the market, Pirelli will replace the current 16.5" tires with 17" sized tires which have already been successful in the local Superbike championships in New Zealand, Holland, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, Canada, Malaysia and many other local championships.

The 17” slick tire is the optimal response for those seeking top performance without having to modify the chassis: ultra-high performance without mounting a new set of wheels or changing the bike’s settings.

Over the past three years, Pirelli has greatly accelerated its tire development to meet end users’ needs and the power delivered by new bikes: in 2009, Pirelli introduced the new 190/60R17 size, in 2010 introduced a new high modulus carcass (Pirelli Patent), continuously improving compounds and finally in 2011 introduced the new 200/60R17 size.

Compared to the 16,5” slick tire, the 17" one offers a thicker tread for better handling and consistency, its footprint in mid to full lean is approx 10% wider thanks to a higher profile and a carcass able to endure more side force, all those features will definitely bring great benefits to motorcyclists all over the world.

The Superbike World Championship will be an excellent environment that will allow Pirelli, as sole supplier, to develop the best tires for 17", a size that is now more and more demanded by the market, thus remaining faithful to its motto "We sell what we race" and thus continuing to offer riders the highest quality products developed with the help of the great Superbike champions.

McCormick Posts Top 10 Finish in Portimao

2011-10-16T11:44:00.002-04:00

Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick is showing the world what Canadians are made of with a top 10 finish aboard his Garnier Alpha Racing Team BMW S1000 RR in the World Superstock FIM Cup 1000 race in Portimao, Portugal this weekend.

McCormick worked his way up from 20th position in the first qualifying session to 15th position in Qualifier #2. On Sunday, the Canadian managed a highly successful 10th place finish with a fastest lap time of 1:47:330, finishing just over 18 seconds behind race winner Danilo Petrucci, who finished with a best time of 1:45:066.

Full results of the Superstock FIM Cup 1000 race can be found on the World Superbike website.

New MotoGP Champion Crowned

2011-10-16T09:03:00.003-04:00

From MotoGP.com

In front of his home fans at Phillip Island, Casey Stoner rode a flawless race to claim his second MotoGP World Championship title at the Iveco Australian Grand Prix. Simoncelli and Dovizioso joined the newly crowned Champion on the podium.

The Australian dominated the weekend for the fifth year running, leading the race from start to finish, giving Honda their first riders title since 2006. The 26 year old took the holeshot from pole position and never looked back as the rest of the field battled for positions.

With a strong breeze blowing and darkening skies, the MotoGP race commenced with a rearranged grid following the withdraw of both Yamaha Factory riders and Héctor Barberá’s replacement rider, Damian Cudlin on the Mapfre Aspar team. Jorge Lorenzo withdrew after a high side in the morning warm up left him with a severely injured finger that will require surgery, while Ben Spies is still mildly concussed after a crash in qualifying on Saturday. Cudlin withdrew due to injuries from a crash in Saturday morning practice.

Nicky Hayden (Ducati Team) and Marco Simoncelli (San Carlo Honda Gresini Team) followed Stoner into turn one, with the Italian making an early move on Hayden to take second. Simoncelli then spent the remainder of the race tussling with Andrea Dovizioso (Repsol Honda), beating his compatriot across the line for his best MotoGP finish of second.

Dani Pedrosa was ten seconds adrift of team mate Dovizioso to finish fourth, giving Honda a 1-4 finish, while Colin Edwards (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) inherited fifth place after first Valentino Rossi (Ducati Team) and then Álvaro Bautista (Rizla Suzuki) crashed out of that position. Rossi fell after making a pass on the Bautista, ending his 13 year string of podium finishes at the Australian circuit, while the Suzuki man slipped toward the end of the race as rain began to fall.

The white flag had been shown on lap ten as scattered rain drops appeared, giving riders the option to swap bikes, though the rain didn’t start in earnest until nearly the end, when it claimed not only Bautista but then Cal Crutchlow (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) and Hiroshi Aoyama (San Carlo Honda Gresini).

Hayden was the first to enter the pits to change bikes, followed by Loris Capirossi (Pramac Racing), though it did not help their finishing positions as Hayden ended the race seventh behind Randy de Puniet (Pramac Racing) despite the Frenchman having had an earlier offtrack excursion, while Capirossi finished ninth behind Toni Elías (LCR Honda).

The final race finisher was Karel Abraham (Cardion AB Motoracing), who crossed the line tenth.

Canadians Invade Trials des Nations

2011-10-13T11:23:00.010-04:00

The annual Trial des Nations was held in Tolmezzo Italy on Sept 18th, a small quaint town located in the province of Udine, at the base of the Strabut Mountain. This Team Event is is the most important Motorcycle Trials competition of national teams organized by the International Motorcycling Federation. It has been held since 1984 at many different countries. Each team is represented by four riders representing their country. The riders compete together to combine a score at the end of the day. The team with fewest total penalties is awarded the title.

Team Canada was a perfect mix of east and west talents including 2 Time CMA National Champion Jordan Szoke, 2011 WEC National Champ Champion Jonathan English, 2010 WEC National Champ Champion Will Duggan and 2010 WEC National Expert Champion Devon D’Argis along with Minders Jon Nelson and Chris Duggan.

This particular event was laid out in and around the town of Tolmezzo including rough rocky rural hillsides mixed in with stadium like urban terrain. The challenging loop included 18 sections that were to be completed within the 7hr time limit. Any second over would result in penalty points.

Saturday morning came early as the team picked up their specific motorcycles from their manufacturers. Not a moment was wasted in the pits as a few minor tweaks and adjustments were made. With helmets strapped on they greeted the beautiful sunny skies in the practice area just a few short km’s up the mountain. Mother Nature wasn’t as kind to the riders all weekend as thundershowers were predicted for the event on Sunday.

Team Canada found themselves one of the earliest teams out in the morning to meet their first group of sections. They arrived just in time for the thunder and lightning storms that were predicted. The torrential downpours created a serious challenge to our riders as they navigated through the first slippery loop of two.

“I like the terrain, although I believe that if there were some bigger splatters in there instead of all the technical off camber turns and stuff, it would have suited most of our team’s riding preferences better. We all love the big hits!” smiles Szoke.

Into the pits for a quick sandwich, the guys headed out to complete their last loop, with intermittent showers. “I think the arrival times we had to the sections and the way the weather played into it, it affected us a bit more than we anticipated. Timing was everything with the weather and sometimes I think we may have gotten the short end of the stick on that one.” says Szoke.

Team Canada finished the event 13^th overall with a combined score of 339.

When asked about his experience at his fifth TDN for Team Canada Jon English remarks, “The Italian fans are so very knowledgeable, they would be cheering us on like mad through the rough sections even while we were struggling to save a 3.”

To read more about Team Canada’s TDN experiences watch for an upcoming feature article in Inside Motorcycles.

2012 ZX-14 features big changes

2011-10-12T17:22:00.003-04:00

1,441cc's. Nine-second quarter miles off the showroom floor. Welcome the new 2012 Kawasaki ZX-14R.

Kawasaki went back to the drawing board to improve upon what has been touted as the most powerful production motorcycle ever built (though BMW's S1000R, the Yamaha V-Max and soon the Ducati Panigale could challenge that claim).

For starters, they added the 'R' designation, Kawi's identification that this is a racing model (like the previous versions weren't already!).

The engine was entirely revamped and features a massive list of upgrades including a longer 65mm stroke, surface-milled (not cast) combustion chambers, improved intake ports and more durable intake valves, meaning you don't have to get the heads ported - it's done for you already. Camshafts are more radical, redesigned pistons feature oil-jet cooling and a 12.3:1 compression ratio. Kawasaki also noted that connecting rods are now beefier, crankshaft main journals are thicker, and airflow capability is improved by 40%. The fuel injection and exhaust systems have also been revamped for 2012.

The transmission gears have been heat- and surface-treated for durability and smoother shifting, while a race-bred slipper clutch and KTRC (Kawi's traction control) have the task of safely applying all that power to the road or track. The KTRC system will have three modes adjusted by bar-mounted switch and can be monitored on the cockpit's LCD info screen.

Frame, suspension, brakes and bodywork ahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifll got upgrades as well, giving the 14 a well-deserved, front-to-back upgrade (the bike has been relatively unchanged since 2006).

This bike was invented for the drag strip, but is becoming more versatile thanks to some of these upgrades. And anyone who's been astride a 14 knows that it's one of the most comfortable sportbikes to ride, period.

Click the link below for a cool (albeit disputable) video of drag racing legend Rickey Gadson racing the ZX-14R against its arch nemesis, the Suzuki Hayabusa on the dragstrip.

http://ninja14r.kawasaki.com/?cm_mmc=MY12NinjaZX14R-_-KMCPromo-_-HomepageBucket-_-Microsite#details/videos/24

Ducati 1199 Panigale powered by "Superquadro"

2011-10-11T18:41:00.004-04:00

With just a matter of weeks to go until the final unveiling of Ducati’s brand new 1199 Panigale at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in Milan (10-13 November), the Italian manufacturer now reveals the secrets behind the awesome power of its 2012 Superbike.

Ducati’s latest engine, the Superquadro, goes beyond the barriers of engineering to enable the introduction of a futuristic Superbike today. Its no-compromise approach to design, combined with Ducati’s Italian innovation has now set the most extreme benchmark ever and stands as the latest milestone in Ducati’s long and iconic history of Superbike engines.

Ducati engineers were given a near impossible design brief to create the new generation Superbike engine for the Ducati 1199 Panigale. Increase power, torque and user- friendliness and reduce overall vehicle weight and scheduled maintenance costs seemed impossible tasks, but given a “blank canvas” to create the new power-plant and encouraged to think outside-of-the-box to achieve the unachievable, engineers have finally ticked all the boxes.

The innovative Superquadro engine, so called because of its massively over-square bore and stroke ratio, has increased power to an absolute production twin-cylinder milestone of 195hp and torque to 98.1 lb-ft (13.5kgm) with user-friendly Riding Modes that deliver that power appropriate to the rider’s style and environment. Its construction has enabled a radical reduction in overall vehicle weight and, further identifying Ducati’s constant pursuit of performance perfection, major services have been extended to 24,000km (15,000 miles).

Only Fabio Taglioni’s masterpiece 90° L-twin configuration and Desmodromic valve control have been retained from previous engines. Everything else is new.

Parts Canada Withdraws from Canadian Superbike Series

2011-10-11T15:29:00.003-04:00

Parts Canada announced today that it will not be renewing sponsorship for 2012 with CSBK for the Canadian Superbike Championship.

Parts Canada has proudly supported the Canadian National road racing series as title sponsor since 1990. Even through the economic downturn and with other series partners finding it necessary to cut back (or disengage completely), Parts Canada continued to support the series as its title sponsor, and has provided support in many other ways including team support, and rider support, both amateur and professional.

After a successful 2011 season with new ownership and the new title of CSBK Parts Canada, Parts Canada was excited to be discussing the program for 2012. Having fulfilled all of its obligations for the 2011 season and looking forward to 2012, Parts Canada was forced to re-evaluate its investment in the series. In part, this decision is as a result of recent public events related to the series organizer, with which Parts Canada does not want to be associated. Parts Canada intends to stand firm in its corporate beliefs and as a result must pull away from the current series.

James Danyluk, President of Parts Canada adds, “This is not an easy decision for us, as we are proud of our racing heritage. Parts Canada has and will continue to be one of the preeminent sponsors of motorcycle racing in Canada, be it road racing, motorcross, drag racing or any other type. Parts Canada respects all of the supporters, riders, team owners, technicians and fans, and does not wish to be associated with or condone conduct that is not consistent with this philosophy. We support the sport, and will continue our efforts to promote motorcycling in Canada. We are looking forward to a fresh beginning.”

Dovizioso to Tech3 Yamaha in 2012

2011-10-11T09:45:00.002-04:00

Recent news that Colin Edwards would be leaving Monster Yamaha Tech3 MotoGP squad for a spot on the Forward Racing Claiming Rule Team (CRT), opened the door for a seat next to Cal Crutchlow on the satellite Yamaha MotoGP squad in 2012. Enter Italian Andrea Dovizioso. The current Respol Honda rider will move to the Yamaha Tech 3 team for 2012, joining Cal Crutchlow.

Dovizioso, who was 125cc World Champion in 2004 and twice runner-up in the 250cc class, is excited with the new opportunity, "I'm happy to have reached this agreement with Tech 3 for next year and I want to thank Hervé Poncharal for the opportunity he is giving me. I am excited to become part of Hervé's squad and to be teamed with Cal. I am sure this new challenge will be exciting, motivating and fun. Now that 2012 is sorted I want to focus on finishing the season in the best possible way."

The 25-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the French-based Tech 3 Team having proven to be one of the fastest and most consistent performers on the grid since his MotoGP debut in 2008. Five podium finishes, including four second places in 2011, have put Dovizioso in a fantastic third place in the World Championship standings with just three races remaining.

Damian Cudlin to Replace Injured Barbera at Phillip Island

2011-10-08T11:25:00.003-04:00

Mapfre Aspar's Hector Barbera suffered a broken clavicle at the Motegi GP, and while the Spanish rider underwent successful surgery, he will not be fit to race the next MotoGP round at Phillip Island next week. In his place, Australian Damian Cudlin will race the Mapfre Aspar machinery.

This will be Cudlin's second appearance in MotoGP, as the twenty-eight-year old replaced an injured Loris Capirossi only weeks early at the Motegi MotoGP. According to Cudlin, "“To get the call up the first time to replace Loris was a big enough shock, but to get another start in MotoGP for another team at the very next race is just unbelievable to me.” Cudlin explained. “You wait your whole life to get a shot at MotoGP and then suddenly two come along at once. If I’m dreaming, don’t wake me up!”

Cudlin will ride a Ducati Desmosedici for the Mapfre Aspar Team at his home Grand Prix at Phillip Island next weekend, October 14-16, 2011.

New ZX-14 to be unleashed on Monday

2011-10-08T00:31:00.005-04:00

MV Agusta F3 Serie Oro coming to Canada

2011-10-07T16:49:00.003-04:00

Inside Motorcycles has just received word that MV Agusta's limited edition F3 Serie Oro will be coming to Canada in July 2012 via Canadian distributor Motovan.

The Serie Oro version of the F3 appeals to collectors and enthusiasts of Italian engineering excellence; a maximum of 200 will be built, with a Canadian price tag of $28,995. Several aesthetic and engineering upgrades have been made from the base F3, making this unique model a real keeper.

More info is expected on the MV Agusta Canada website shortly.

Ducati announces 2012 Multistrada and Hypermotard

2011-10-07T13:18:00.007-04:00

With the new 1199 Panigale Superbike set to debut at the EICMA show in a month, Ducati preceded that intro with the announcement of the Multistrada and Hypermotard models for 2012.

The award-winning Multistrada family is Ducati's top-selling motorcycle, featuring the Multistrada 1200, 1200 S Sport Pikes Peak Special Edition and 1200 S Touring. In addition to standard red and arctic white color schemes, the 1200 S Touring model will also be offered in a brand new race titanium matte colour scheme with a racing black frame in December (pictured above). All 2012 models will have a revised, comfort-enhanced rider’s seat with an increased front and rear length.

The 2012 Hypermotard 1100EVO SP is now available as a Corse Edition and will feature high ground clearance, high spec suspension, new seat aesthetics and high bars to make it track ready. the 1100EVO SP Corse Edition comes in full red, white and black Ducati Corse official colors and is available immediately.

Ben Young to test Moto3 Machine at Indiana

2011-10-06T21:08:00.003-04:00

from Fogi Racing Development Team

Fogi Development rider Ben Young has been invited to test / race the prototype Yamaha powered Gptech Moto3 Grand Prix machine at Putnam Park, Indiana at the USGPRU season finale 7th – 9th Oct.

The Moto3 machine is the brain child of Geoff Maloney owner of Gptech LLC. Gptech in striving to assist the growth of the domestic GP motorcycling racing industry while providing an easier, more affordable way to do it. It will be an affordable, competitive GP race bike to develop young racers skills. The Yamaha WR250 powered bike will be going into production this coming winter.

Fogi Racing team manager Scott Young was asked about Young’s opportunity in testing / racing the Moto3, “This is great for Ben. We know Geoff from working closely with Angus Borland, team owner with the FTR Moto2 bike in MotoGP. It was fantastic Ben testing the FTR Moto2 bike last weekend and now with him being invited to test the prototype Moto3 bike is finishing off our season on a huge high. I would like to thank Geoff Maloney and Gptech for their support to Ben and Fogi Racing."

Nesbitt Plans Perfect Step with CBR250R Cup in 2012

2011-10-06T16:18:00.014-04:00

Stacey Nesbitt is getting used to the added media attention after having become arguably the first female in road racing history to win a mixed gender National Championship title. With Honda Canada's recent announcement to hold a National CBR25oR Cup in 2012, the current CBR 125 Cup champion is ready and willing to carry the Number One plate into the 2012 season.

Honda Canada's Kim Moore has already told Stacey she can sport the Number One plate in the 2012 CBR250R Cup, "Kim's already told us we can put the Number One plate on my bike next year," said Nesbitt, "but I am also still going to keep my number 316 and find room for it on there as well."

Stacey caught up with us at Inside Motorcycles to talk about her plans for 2012 and what she thinks of Honda's recent announcement to host a National CBR25oR Cup next year. "It's really the perfect step," she explained, "I think it's easier to go from a CBR125 to a CBR250 than it is to jump all the way to the 600 (sportbike)."

Honda Canada invited Stacey and fellow Honda competitor and former CBR125 ace Bodhi Edie to test the CBR250R at a media event at St. Eustache recently. The experience was certainly worthwhile and has left no doubt that Stacey plans to compete in the CBR250R Cup in 2012. According to Nesbitt, "The bike was a lot of fun. It's bigger, its got great acceleration, it really is the perfect step."

While Honda Canada is still finalizing the details of the 2012 CBR250 Cup, it is expected that the series will run as part of the Canadian Superbike Series and that the CBR125 Cup will move to regional level events. A race kit will be available for purchase for the CBR250R and while Honda continues to work out the details, they have been considering input from the Nesbitt's and other 125 Cup riders as well.

When asked about her winter plans to prepare for the upcoming 2012 season, Stacey already had a number of goals in mind. She mentioned that the Canadian Superbike Series intends to send the championship winner to the Kevin Schwantz School in Alabama, "but that likely won't happen until Spring, likely March break", said Stacey. So in the meantime, her and her dad, Grant, have been keeping their eyes peeled for a dirt bike that she can ride at an indoor track or on the ice this winter. When asked about any other riding schools or opportunities south of the border, the fourteen-year-old noted, "We're going to focus on the Canadian CBR250R Cup for 2012, so we haven't thought about schools in the U.S. much, but we also wouldn't say no right away either."

The Nesbitt's are currently working on a support package for Stacey for her 2012 racing program. In the meantime, Stacey herself won't be expected to start contributing to her own racing budget just yet, as her parents encourage her to spend her time focussing on attaining good grades in school. "Maybe in November once we see how my grades are," explained Stacey, "but for now I want to get good grades too." Nesbitt seems just fine with her parent's plan for her to focus on school, having returned home a little early the day of our interview as she "drove herself home on the scooter" (in Quebec, riders can apply for a scooter license at age 14).

When asked about her favourite riders on the world cup level, Nesbitt responded without hesitation that Honda's Marco Simoncelli and Yamaha Factory rider Jorge Lorenzo were her favourite MotoGP riders. "Everyone says that Simoncelli is so aggressive," Stacey advised, "but really he's just an old school racer. It's going to be a little aggressive, that's part of racing." Perhaps more importantly, Stacey also pointed out that she likes Simoncelli's personality. She realizes the importance of being available to talk to fans and supporters and appreciates that Simoncelli (as well as many other world cup level riders) are available to talk to fans. "Why wouldn't you?" she offered, "I'd want to thank them any way I could."

Sounds like Stacey's on the right track to defending her number one plate in 2012, and that she'll be a road racing force to be reckoned with for years to come. Watch for her in the 2012 CBR250R Cup in Canada next season.

Stacey Nesbitt right at home on the CBR125R; moving up to the CBR250R class in 2012

Photo courtesy of Neil Cameron

MV Unveils F4 R Corsa Corta

2011-10-06T14:02:00.009-04:00

MV Augusta announced the launch of the F4 R Corsa Corta on October 6 from their headquarters in Varese, Italy.

According to the manufacturer, the big news here is the homologated 195-hp Corsa Corta engine which until now was only featured on the F4 RR, MV Augusta's top Superbike. The engine capacity of 998cc was met by using a bore of 79 mm and a stroke of only 50.9 mm. Peak power comes at 13,000 rpm. Every component in the F4 R's Corsa Corta engine was thoroughly engineered and designed with the intent to minimize internal friction.

Highlights include 100% titanium valves (the first time ever on a production motorcycle), a new primary gear ratio (allowing a drastic reduction in rpm of both generator and water pump, thereby limiting the absorbed power) and a removable 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch which according to MV Augusta "assures precise control even during the most violent braking manoeuvres."

The electronic management system has been endlessly enhanced, the traction control has been improved thanks to a new algorithm and also maintains the two rider selectable engine maps, all of which are now comfortably adjustable by means of the new control situated on the left handlebar.

The manufacturer is pleased with the upgraded 4-2-1-4 primary section of the exhaust system, which not only allows the engine to breathe more efficiently but also produces a very distinct rumble.

The F4 R remains faithful to the brand's structural tradition of mixing a steel tubular trellis to cast aluminium side-plates. MV Augusta considers the exceptional rear single-sided swingarm, a 'real engineering jewel' that weighs a scant 5 kg, believed to be the lightest of its kind in history.

Suspension goodies include competition-derived front forks and a front axle carrier that uses a rapid release system for the wheel, reminiscent of the first F4, the legendary Serie Oro. A fully adjustable Sachs shock absorber out back is equipped with a nitrogen reservoir (separated and integrated within the body). Shock linkage allows ride height to be adjusted.

Stopping power comes from Brembo Monobloc brakes up front and an exclusive MV rear braking system in the rear.

The new F4 R, already on sale at official dealers, is available in 2 colours: red/grey and white/medium grey, at a price of 18.800 € (approx. $26,000 CDN) including tax in Italy (though every country could have a price variation due to local import duties and taxes).

Yamaha Motor Canada Transferred to Yamaha USA; Organizational Structure Unchanged

2011-10-05T18:22:00.003-04:00

Yamaha Motor Canada will see all of its shares transferred to the U.S. subsidiary, Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A., according to a recent announcement on Yamaha's corporate website. The share transfer is expected to create a more efficient regional management structure, under which Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. will assume responsibility for all North American territories.

"The transfer, expected to be completed by December 31, 2011, will see Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. assume additional responsibilities for financial reporting and audit," according to a press release issued today by Yamaha Motor Canada (YMCA) Ltd. The statement from Yamaha Canada went on to assure us that "the investment arrangement will not impact YMCA's organizational structure. YMCA will maintain all of its current, independent responsibilities to serve the Canadian dealers and customers."

The change is reportedly part of an ongoing business reform process for Yamaha Motor Corporation to simplify reporting for North American business. Yamaha is not the first company to run their Canadian operations from the United States. Both Ducati and Triumph also run their Canadian operations south of the border. While Yamaha Canada will maintain it's organizational structure, implications to consumers, if any, remain to be seen.

YMCA joins nine other subsidiaries, including Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America, Skeeter Products Inc. and Tennessee Water Craft Inc., under the Yamaha Motor U.S.A. ownership portfolio.

Pro Street record smashed

2011-10-05T15:47:00.005-04:00

It seems like forever since Brock Davidson wheeled his nitrous-fed Suzuki Bandit to the first seven-second streetbike lap in the world. In fact, that lap was made 10 years ago and in the years since, the Pro Street class (formerly Streetbike Shootout) has been dominated, for the most part, by turbocharged motorcycles with little more than a peep from the nitrous contingent.

Things have come full circle however as Ryan Schnitz (Decatur, IN) piloted the nitrous-injected, Cecil Towner-tuned HTP Performance Suzuki Hayabusa to the first six-second pass by a Pro Street motorcycle, clocking in at 6.907-seconds (quarter-mile) at 203.06mph. The run was made during the MIROCK Fast By Gast Fall Nationals at Maryland International Raceway this past weekend.

Pro Street bikes are highly modified production motorcycles running D.O.T. rubber and no wheelie bars. However, nitrous bikes in the class are allowed to run centrifugal 'slider' clutches and auto transmissions.

Schnitz was unable to back up the number within 1% for an official series record, but will forever have the distinction of being the first 'streetbike' racer to post a six-second elapsed time.

You can watch a video of the run at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4s_7F3SI_l8

Canadian Racing Pioneer Harold Cole Honoured

2011-10-05T10:59:00.003-04:00

Toronto, ON - October 3rd, 2011: From his first days as a teenager on the Exhibition Oval in Toronto, Harold Cole was known as a feisty, exciting rider-called the greatest living motorcycle racer in Canada in his heyday- and a self-made track expert who presided over the front rank of motorcycle stars. On Saturday, November 5th, Harold Cole will be honoured as an Historical Inductee at the Sixth Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Reunion at the Delta Meadowvale Resort and Conference Centre in Mississauga, Ontario.

Born in Toronto in 1895, Harold Cole became the owner of his first motorcycle-a 4hp Yale- on June 1, 1910, at age fifteen. After his first spin around the old Exhibition oval that same day, Cole and the track became inseparable.

Racing stole his heart at an early age, and Cole attempted to enter competitions at the dangerous quarter-mile track at Scarborough Beach and Exhibition Place during the summer and autumn of 1910. The Toronto Motorcycle Club advised him he was too young, however-so in the meantime, Cole took his Yale on a solo trip to Buffalo, NY.

The next summer Cole finally had the opportunity to shine in a three-mile race on the Waterloo quarter-mile dirt track on July 1, 1911. He won his heat and the final, with an average time of 1:20/mile. That same week, Cole won his first event on his home track at Exhibition and set a new record for Eastern Canada-twice in one day.

After those first heady days on the track, Cole went on to a distinguished career as a motorcycle racer, setting records for distance in both dirt track and motordrome races. He was Dominion Champion and took home the Commeford Cup three times before his death in Toronto in the mid 1950s.

Harold Cole, a pioneer of Canadian motorcycle racing, will be made a historical inductee into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame on November 5th.

To order tickets for the Sixth Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet & Reunion, please visit www.hofbanquet.eventbrite.com.

Kruger in China: End of Season ReCap

2011-10-04T11:33:00.008-04:00

from Dan Kruger

Riding the 2011 ZX-10 fully race prepped, Canadian Dan Kruger topped the qualifying in Q1 with a 1:39.9. Kruger had been testing the new bike all week and was quite happy with the setup. Saturday Morning kruger missed out on pole as the local favourite YES Yamaha China Rider put in a blistering 1:38.4 on a Japan Yamaha factory prepared R1. The best Kruger could do was a 1:39.3 (His best time ever at this race track).

Race 1 saw everyone get off with a clean start and Kruger simply could not hang with the Yamaha rider after 3 laps. He gradually fell back but at the same time pulled steadily away from the rest of the 22 riders. With less than 2 laps to go heading into turn one at about 265km per hour, Kruger was the 2nd of 5 to fall victim to oil on the track. The first being the Japanese rider that was dropping oil. Sliding over 200 feet on pavement before hitting the rumble strip and sliding another 80 feet, Kruger’s lowside damaged his bike badly, destroyed his new leathers and badly injuring his right hand/fingers/knuckles. 3 other riders crashed into the same corner and they immediately red flagged the race. Final positions were calculated from a lap earlier and Kruger still got 2nd putting him 3rd overall in the Championship.

Race 2 was not so easy… With broken bones in his hand, Kruger was sceptical of even finishing a lap. With the full grandstands behind his every move, he managed to hold of the 2nd factory YES Yamaha Rider and nab another 2nd place. “It was a really tough race and my hand kept sliding off the throttle body. It was definitely not a smooth race or very much fun but I knew I had a lot to prove with the new bike and a lot of support in the paddock and in the grandstands. The new Kawasaki ZX-10 is amazing and we barely had time to fit it with any factory parts. 2012 will be a very good year for us, that is for sure!”

The two 2nd place finishes gave Kruger the 3rd overall in the Elite Superbike Class 1 Championship results. The end of season banquet was held that night and Kruger proudly took 3rd overall with his broken hand in tow.

"We are leading the Chengdu Superbike Championship at the moment with 1 event left in November. Things are looking good there and I plan to ride a consistent race and take that inaugural #1 plate for 2011. We also have been confirmed to ride the prestigious 8 hour Endurance race at Phillips Island in Australia Dec 2-4 and then straight to China for an end of season 2 hour Endurance event at Zhuhai Dec.

McCormick Settles In at Magny-Cours

2011-10-02T09:46:00.007-04:00

Despite struggling with tires and suspension set up early on this weekend, Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick demonstrated he's more than capable of competing amongst a tough European field in the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup.

Riding for the Garnier Alpha Racing Team at Magny-Cours, France this past weekend aboard a BMW S1000 RR, McCormick came from a 19th place start to finish 13th in a field of 28 riders. McCormick's fastest lap was a time of 1:42:903, less than 2 seconds off the pace of the race winner Danilo Petrucci (1:41:453).

The twenty-year-old McCormick now heads to Portimao, Portugal to compete in the next round of the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup on October 16, 2011.

Full race results from Magny-Cours can be found online at www.wsbk.com

McCormick struggles on day one at Magny-Cours

2011-09-30T16:51:00.005-04:00

Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick struggled in the first session of Superstock 1000 aboard the Garnier Alpha Racing BMW S1000R at the World Superbike event in Magny-Cours, France on September 30.

McCormick is currently qualified 19th out of twenty-eight riders with a 1'44.533, more than three seconds behind current top qualifier Davide Giugliano aboard the Althea Racing Ducatio 1098R.

"(Brett) looks to be on the pace in all the split time sections except section 4, the fastest part of the track," noted Chris Duff, Marketing and Race Team Manager for BMW Motorrad Canada. "His bike looks to be down on power compared to some of the others."

Check out www.worldsbk.com for the latest news including detailed timing results from the event.

MotoGP heads to Motegi, Japan

2011-09-29T22:08:00.011-04:00

Photo courtesy of MotoGP.com

The MotoGP world championship heads into the final stretch this weekend as riders and crew arrive in Motegi, Japan for Round #15 of the eighteen-round series. Following plenty of controversy leading up to the event, the Grand Prix of Japan takes place this coming weekend and all series regulars, with the exception of those injured, are expected to compete.

Repsol Honda rider Casey Stoner leads the series ahead of defending World Champion Jorge Lorenzo. Despite being 44 points down, Lorenzo will not give up, "Casey has won so many races and finished on the podium more than any other rider, so it's normal he has so many points. Maybe it's too late to fight with him for the Championship, but anyway there are still 4 races to go, 100 points to be taken, so you never know. You have to give everything and anything is possible. We must fight for the win in every race." explained the Yamaha rider.

San Carlo Honda Gresini rider Hiroshi Aoyama is excited for the series to return to his home track. According to the Japanese rider, "I want to say thanks to those who came here to race because it was, I think, a hard decision and it means a lot for Japanese motorcycle fans. Personally this is my home race and for sure it’s very important."

In an effort to bring a fantastic line-up to Japan, HRC test riders Shinishi Ito and Kousuki Akiyoshi will also race in Motegi. Ito will be a wild card entry in an HRC Team while Akiyoshi will ride alongside Elias for LCR Honda.

Damian Cudlin will replace Pramac rider Loris Capirossi, who is not able to race Motegi due to an injured shoulder.

Free practice sessions have already gotten underway in Japan, and Casey Stoner shows no signs of slowing as he leads the first free practice session with a time of 1:47:289, three tenths of a second quicker than his teammate, Andrea Dovizioso. Nicky Hayden rode to an impressive third place in Friday morning practice with a time of 1:47:732. Respol Honda's Dani Pedrosa was fourth, with a time was just over a half second off the leading time posted by Stoner, while Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jorge Lorenzo completed the top five with a time of 1’47.912.

Canadian Teenager Charly Vu to Tryout for Red Bull Rookies

2011-09-29T11:33:00.007-04:00

Thirteen-year old Canadian road racer Charly Vu will have a chance to show off his skills at the upcoming Red Bull Rookies tryouts which take place at Motorland Aragon, Spain from October 10-12. The teenager was selected among a large pool of applicants to tryout for the prestigious development series. "I still can't believe that this is happening to me," states an ecstatic Vu, "This has been my goal since I first started racing and I will give it everything I've got to show them that I want and deserve to compete in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup."

Racing since the age of eight, Vu got his start on mini-motos. Following a three-year stint with the Ontario Mini-Moto Racing Association, Charly graduated to his first full-sized motorcycle, a 2004 Honda NSR50R, which he used to compete in the Ohio Mini Roadracing League where he was crowned Novice Formula 3 Class Champion, Runner-up in the Novice Formula 4 class, and Runner-up with Overall Points for Novices. Vu was also awarded with the 2010 Novice of the Year Award. In 2011, he competed in Ontario's SOAR and RACE series, aboard a Honda RS125 GP bike.

Charly will travel to Motorland Aragon in Spain in October to tryout for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, where he will be showcasing his talent aboard specially prepared Metrakit 125cc motorcycles in front of some of the biggest names in motorcycle road racing.

The Red Bull Rookies Cup is a series designed to develop talent amongst the best riders from around the world, preparing them for top level international racing series such as MotoGP. Selected riders compete against each other aboard identical 125cc Grand Prix bikes, the KTM RC125. The series visits some of the most prestigious racetracks around the world in front of thousands of race fans, as races are held on MotoGP race weekends.

Hopkins to Rizla Suzuki for Malaysian GP

2011-09-29T10:03:00.005-04:00

From Rizla Suzuki

John Hopkins will re-join the Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team as a wild-card rider in Sepang for the Malaysian Grand Prix on Sunday 23^rd October.

Hopkins will make a welcome return to the Rizla Suzuki squad for his second wild-card event of the season. His first event was at Brno where he unfortunately crashed and injured his right hand in a practice session. He had shown huge potential during the first day and had finished in 10^th place on the time-sheets, but his injury on day two stopped the Anglo-American from showing what he might have achieved after a full weekend on-board the Suzuki GSV-R. Hopkins has already completed a MotoGP race this season, after he deputised for Álvaro Bautista at Jerez and scored a creditable 10^th place at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Hopkins is currently leading the British Superbike championship onboard his Suzuki GSX-R1000 with the Samsung Crescent Racing team. The final event of the season will see him compete in a triple-header race weekend at Brands Hatch in England on Saturday 8^th and Sunday 9^th October, as he attempts to secure the championship during his debut season.

According to Hopkins, “I am really pumped to get this chance to ride in a MotoGP race with the Rizla Suzuki team. I thought after Brno that I wouldn’t get the opportunity again and was really disappointed that I missed out there due to a silly mistake, so to be heading to Sepang is fantastic. It is one of my favourite tracks and I know it well because we used to test there a lot. My main focus is on the British Championship at the moment, but as soon as that is over I will be in MotoGP mode and putting all my efforts into getting a good result at Sepang and showing that I can perform at the highest level. I really want to get back into MotoGP and this is a great chance to show what I can do. “Again I need to thank everyone at Rizla Suzuki for giving me this opportunity and my Samsung Crescent team – I hope that by the time I get back on the MotoGP bike we will have been celebrating something really big at Brands Hatch!”

Team manager Paul Denning states, “We’d intended to give John at least one outing on the Rizla Suzuki Grand Prix bike this year and we’re delighted that he’ll join us in Malaysia to form a two–man team with Álvaro. Sepang is one of John’s favourite tracks and also one that the GSV-R has performed well at in the past. What happened in Brno – with John’s injury – and the way he has worked so hard to come back from it, and challenge for the British Superbike Championship, has only reaffirmed his commitment to success and getting back to the top level. Let’s hope at Sepang we manage to line up at the start of the race with two Rizla Suzukis and that Álvaro and John can show what they and the team are all capable of producing.”

The Malaysian Grand Prix takes place October 21-23 at the Sepang Circuit, Malaysia. The series heads to Motegi, Japan this weekend for Round #15 of the World Championship series.

Ducati welcome the 2012 "Panigale" 1199 Superbike

2011-09-27T19:15:00.003-04:00

Ducati officially announces the naming of its new generation 2012 Superbike as the "Ducati 1199 Panigale" and confirms that the unveiling and first public display will be at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in Milan, Italy, November 10-13, 2011.

Having attracted massive, world-wide interest during the machine's many test phases, the exciting new model is also now officially named in an emotional video released on the Italian manufacturer's website, www.ducatiusa.com, and Ducati Motor Holding's official Youtube channel.

The wait to discover the incredible performance, innovative design and ground-breaking technologies of the new 1199 Panigale will continue for just a few more weeks.

Pronounced "Pan-ee-gah-lee", the new model breaks with Ducati's
Superbike tradition by adding a name to its 1199cc engine capacity (referred to as eleven-nine-nine), making a significant and warm association to its historic roots in the Borgo Panigale area of Bologna.

In an Italian territory known as "Motor Valley" and where high
performance and racing runs through the veins of its passionate people, Ducati now underline their pride in being world ambassadors for the "Made in Italy" title by immortalizing their home town in the name of the new Superbike.

Developed as a true sport bike with competition in its DNA, the Ducati 1199 Panigale will first see racing action in the 2012 FIM Superstock Championship and, in accordance with the factory's development program, make its debut in World Superbike in 2013.

The two-stage introduction enables Ducati additional development for the Superbike version of the 1199 Panigale, appropriate to the more open regulations of the World Superbike category, and in addition help control costs for World Superbike teams who can continue to compete with a 2012 version of the 1198 with technical support from Ducati Engineers.

No slowing down for CSBK in 2012

2011-09-27T15:43:00.006-04:00

The Canadian Superbike Championship presented by Parts Canada is alive and well and will return in full force in 2012.

After a meeting with series partners that took place today, Frontline CSBK President Kevin Graham spoke with Inside Motorcycles about the organization’s future plans. “Our main partners remain fully engaged and committed to the success of the series,” Graham stated after the meeting that included Parts Canada, BMW Motorrad Canada, Deeley Harley-Davidson and Honda Canada. Each of these partners as well as Chrysler Canada has pledged strong support of the series in 2012.

On the heels of last week’s announcement that Canadian Kawasaki Motors would not be supporting the Canadian series next year, the green manufacturer has agreed to homologate next year, and discussions are underway with Suzuki and Yamaha to do the same (as was the case in 2011).

CSBK will include seven rounds in 2012, Graham indicated. The Mosport double-header season finale will return, as will stops at Autodrome St-Eustache, Shannonville Motorsports Park and Atlantic Motorsports Park, while Circuit ICAR has been dropped from the schedule.

Most notably, the series is in talks with Circuit Mont Tremblant about hosting a potential double-header event next season, although nothing is set in stone at this time. “(The series) wants to run at Mont Tremblant, and (the track) wants us there too,” admitted Graham. “But it all boils down to costs. It has to make sense.”

Pirelli Wins 24 Hour of Le Mans

2011-09-26T19:27:00.002-04:00

from Pirelli

Le Mans, (France), September 26, 2011 – Pirelli and the KAWASAKI-SRC racing teams’ Diablo Superbike SC equipped #11 bike won the 34th edition of the 24 hours of Le Mans this past weekend in a fast and very spectacular race.

Qualifying third on the grid, Julien Da Costa made an exceptional running start and was in first position after the first curve. It was the beginning of a memorable 24 hour fight for the victory between the Kawasaki and the Suzuki-SERT #1 bike ridden by Delhalle, Sakai and Guittet. Sunday morning at 10:40 am, the dueling motorcycles were still lapping within the same minute but the Suzuki was forced to pit once more for a technical problem and lost one lap. This was the turning point of the race and from then on the Pirelli-shod machine remained in the lead through the checkered flag.

After incredible suspense, the KAWASAKI-SRC won this historical 34th edition, taking home with them a new record for this endurance race, covering 834 laps (or 3490.29 km) in the 24-hour period.

Additionally, it is the first time history that the same team has won the 24 hours of Le Mans twice in a row with the same riders and the same tire manufacturer.

24 hours of Le Mans 2011

1. Da Costa/Leblanc/Four (Kawasaki-SRC) 834 laps or 3490.29km

2. Delhalle/Sakai/Guittet (Suzuki-SERT) 833 laps

3. Jerman/Martin/Baz (Yamaha-Monster-Yart) 826 laps

4. Saiger/Stamm/Tangre (Kawasaki-Bolliger Team Switzerland) 823 laps

5. Mc Guinness/Amor/Donald (Honda-Honda TT Legends) 819 laps

World Superbike heads to Russia in 2012

2011-09-25T09:49:00.005-04:00

The FIM released a provisional calendar for the 2012 World Superbike Championship yesterday, adding a stop at Moscow International Raceway in Russia. The Moscow stop solidifies the strength of the World Superbike series as a World Championship, with races in Australia, USA and now Russia, outside the balance of western European venues. The 2012 provisional World Superbike Championship also highlights an estimated 15 race venues, up from 13 in 2011. The series comes to North America on May 28, to Miller Motorsports Park, Utah.

Provisional 2012 FIM World Superbike calendar:

26 February Australia Phillip Island

4 March t.b.a. t.b.a

1 April Europe t.b.a

22 April Netherlands Assen

6 May Italy Monza

13 May Europe Donington

28 May USA Miller Motorsports Park

10 June San Marino Misano Adriatico

1 July Spain Motorland Aragon

22 July Czech Republic Brno

5 August U.K. Silverstone

26 August Russia Moscow Int'l Raceway

9 Sept. Germany Nurburgring

7 October France Magny-Cours

21 October Portugal Portimao

Rea and McGuinness Unveil 20th Anniversary Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade

2011-09-23T21:35:00.004-04:00

From Castrol Honda World Superbike Team

In carefully-coordinated presentations this evening, Honda riders Jonathan Rea and John McGuinness took the covers off the 2012 version of Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade.

Rea is racing for the Castrol Honda team at Imola in Italy in round eleven of the World Superbike championship this weekend, while McGuinness is competing for the Honda TT Legends World Endurance championship team at the iconic 24-hour race at Le Mans in France.

Both riders will contest the weekend’s races on the current version of the Fireblade but officially revealed next year’s model, which will also be on public display at the forthcoming EICMA show in Milan (8-13 November), for the first time this evening.

The iconic Fireblade will celebrate its 20^th anniversary in 2012 and the new model maintains the original’s ethos of ‘total control’, a philosophy that has been continually refined and evolved during the past 20 years.

The 2012 Fireblade features a number of innovative features including new wheels and front and rear suspension enhancements to improve handling, traction and braking performance. The advanced Balance Free Rear Cushion rear suspension is a world-first for a production motorcycle.

The design team has also created a new, even more aggressive styling to better communicate the dynamism and sheer speed of the new CBR1000RR. In addition, the already comprehensive instrument panel has additional functionality making the bike more user-friendly, helping riders get the most from Honda’s most exciting and advanced supersport machine yet.

“This is a stunning-looking new Fireblade,” said Jonathan Rea, after revealing the bike in Imola. “But it’s not just cosmetic changes on this model – there’s some clever new technology on the bike, too. I’m looking forward to these final three rounds of this year’s World Superbike championship, but I can’t wait to begin testing for next year on the new machine.”

2012 AMA Rulebook Released

2011-09-23T18:51:00.002-04:00

The 2012 AMA Pro Road Racing Rules Package has been released and is now available at the Competitor Information section of AMAProRacing.com. All changes from the 2011 rules package are noted in red. A direct link to the new rules can be found online at: 2012 AMA Pro Road Racing Rulebook.

Szoke Confident About Future

2011-09-22T14:49:00.004-04:00

Seven-time Canadian Superbike Champion Jordan Szoke has every intention of moving forward with his future racing plans, despite recent news that one of his primary sponsors, Canadian Kawasaki Motors, announced yesterday their withdrawal from the Canadian Superbike Series.

Grateful for the long history the accomplished rider has had with Canadian Kawasaki (he has won 5 of his 7 Superbike championships and 4 of his 5 Sportbike titles aboard Kawasaki livery), Szoke has every intention to keep his job as a motorcycle racer in 2012. According to Szoke, "I am still young, fit and successful. This is my job. It's what I do."

Szoke intends to continue racing in Canada or abroad and has reportedly been in talks with his 2011 sponsor, Competition Systems, about continuing to ride their ZX10R's or possibly another brand of motorcycle. Szoke made it clear that he wishes to continue racing and continue to work with his current sponsors, "We want to assure our existing sponsors that we will be continuing to represent them for 2012," explained Szoke, "Right now we are open to any and all potential manufacturers and sponsors for 2012 to continue our program."

Times remain tough for professional motorcycle racers who have been all too familiar with the industry's economic decline, but Szoke brings with him years of talent and experience, as well as a handful of Number One plates; even in these tough times, that's still got to count for something.

Kawasaki Out of Canadian Superbike Series

2011-09-22T10:17:00.009-04:00

Photo courtesy of Richard Coburn

Canadian Kawasaki Motors has announced their official withdrawal from participation in the Canadian Superbike Series. In an email to friends and media colleagues yesterday evening, Canadian Kawasaki's Jeff Comello stated, "Its with sadness that I inform of Canadian Kawasaki Motors decision to withdraw from the Canadian Superbike Championship."

With a long history of supporting road racing in Canada, the manufacturer who holds a number of Canadian Superbike titles sites the severe economic downturn that continues to affect the industry as the reason for their withdrawal. According to their press release "without the full support of all manufacturers, Canadian Kawasaki Motors was forced to re-evaluate its future racing investment and direction."

Canadian Kawasaki Motors will ensure that all Kawasaki riders are able to participate with the homologation of current Kawasaki models, and assures us that "we eagerly await the opportunity to officially re-enter the sport as market conditions improve."

Frontline CSBK Inc., organizer of the Canadian Superbike Series, responded to the news today thanking Canadian Kawasaki for their long-time support. "Kawasaki has always been a cornerstone of our series here in Canada," explained Frontline principal Kevin Graham, "they not only won on a regular basis but they have helped form and build our series."

The news comes at a time when the road racing series in Canada is already struggling and brings into question the future of the Canadian Superbike Series. Here's hoping the folks at Frontline CSBK can drum up some support over the long winter months ahead.

Take an Adventure with Ducati Multristrada

2011-09-20T22:17:00.005-04:00

Now, through November 30, 2011, receive a set of Panniers or a Top Case for free with the purchase of your new Ducati Multistrada 1200!*

Coming off of an incredible record setting victory at Pikes Peak and just voted “Best Open Streetbike” by Cycle World Magazine for the second year in a row, the Multistrada 1200 has proven to be the most versatile Ducati ever made. With outstanding inventory selection in Canada, now is the time start your next adventure with a Ducati Multistrada 1200.

For a limited time, Ducati will be including a set of Ducati Performance Panniers with the purchase of any new 2010 Multistrada 1200 and 1200 S Sport model or a Ducati Performance Rear Top Case with the purchase of any new 2010 Multistrada 1200 S Touring model – the perfect accessories for your next touring adventure!

For additional information on this amazing opportunity, please visit www.ducatiusa.com, or

your local Ducati dealer.

*Offer valid in Canada only. All new 2010 Multistrada 1200, Multistrada 1200 S Touring and Multistrada 1200 S Sport models are eligible for this promotion.

Support Rally for Vita & Kahuna Powersports this Sunday

2011-09-20T16:10:00.003-04:00

Looking for somewhere to ride this weekend? How about attending the Motorcycle "Rally for Vita"? This Sunday 25 September, Kahuna Powersports, Toronto’s largest motorcycle and powersport dealership will kick off the “Rally for Vita” fundraiser motorcycle ride - an event designed to raise funds for Vita, a Community Living Services charitable organization that supports individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or serious mental illness.

The purpose of the “Rally for Vita” is to create further awareness of the “Vita Community Living Services” foundation and to raise funds to purchase a MV1 wheelchair accessible vehicle, a key component to Vita’s abilities to service individuals in and among local communities. “Kahuna Powersports is extremely excited to be part of this first motorcycle ride and fundraiser for Vita. In the Powersports business we understand the importance of mobility and access. Raising funds to assist Vita with the purchase of the new MV1- Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle seemed a goal we just had to part of”, states Joe Linardi, President of Kahuna Powersports.

“Rally for Vita” will start off with a welcome breakfast from 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. at Kahuna Powersports. At 9:45 a.m. registered riders, along with police motorcycle escort, depart on a three hour scenic ride ending at Mercedes Benz in Barrie, Ontario. Lunch will then be served featuring “Hero Burgers”. After lunch and from 1.45 p.m. onward the first annual “Rally for Vita” motorcycle “Show ‘N’ Shine” competition takes place to recognize the participating riders. By registering for the “Rally for Vita” riders automatically get their motorcycle entered for the Show ‘N’ Shine competition. There will be winners announced in four categories which are: Street Bike; Stock/Modified; Vintage and Custom.

The “Rally for Vita” mission is to be an annual signature fundraising event that combines the popularity of motorcycle riding to a great cause. “We’ve always hosted ‘bike nights’ or in-store events at Kahuna Powersports which often incorporate a good cause. Joining forces with Vita’s goals allows us to ‘give back’ yearly and support our local community further”, adds Joe Linardi.

For Further Information: To register for the ride go to the Rally for Vita website: https://rallyforvita.com/index.html or visit www.kahunapowersports.com

Stoner Widens Points Lead at Aragon

2011-09-18T10:18:00.004-04:00

Casey Stoner claimed another valuable 25 points in the MotoGP championship at Motorland Aragon this past weekend, running a flawless race, giving the Australian rider his 8th victory of the season and increasing his lead in the championship by 44 points over defending champion Jorge Lorenzo.

Starting from pole position, Stoner did not get the start he wanted as he and fellow Repsol Honda team mate Dani Pedrosa got tangled up, allowing Yamaha's Ben Spies to take the early lead. Stoner made quick work of the Yamaha, however, and was soon out front followed only by Pedrosa who finished in second place, over 8 seconds behind Stoner.

The battle for third place stretched its way out over the course of several laps, with Ben Spies taking the early position for third but being studied carefully by Marco Simoncelli. Defending champion Jorge Lorenzo was also able to close the gap and challenge for the third and final spot on the podium. While Spies and Simoncelli battled for third, it was eventually Jorge Lorenzo whose consistently quick ride brought him to finish in third position. Marco Simoncelli finished in 4th place while Ben Spies settled for 5th.

Spain's Alvaro Bautista put in yet another impressive performance finishing 6th aboard his Rizla Suzuki, ahead of American Nicky Hayden, who finished in 7th position on his Ducati. Hector Barbera, Cal Crutchlow and Valentino Rossi, who started from pit lane due to an engine penalty, rounded out the top ten.

Rookie rider Karel Abraham crashed out of the race on the first lap, as did Honda's Andrea Dovizioso. Loris Capirossi and Toni Elias also did not finish as the two collided in the latter half of the race.

With four races remaining, Casey Stoner seems well on track to win the world championship title with a total of 284 points, 44 points ahead of defending champion Jorge Lorenzo. Andrea Doviziosi remains third in the championship, but with only 185 points, it seems only Lorenzo will be able to challenge the Australian Honda rider for the championship.

Current MotoGP championship standings:

1. Casey Stoner, Honda, 284 points

2. Jorge Lorenzo, Yamaha, 240 points

3. Andrea Dovizioso, Honda, 185 points

4. Dani Pedrosa, Honda, 170 points

5. Ben Spies, Yamaha, 146 points

6. Valentino Rossi, Ducati, 139 points

7. Nicky Hayden, Ducati, 114 points

8. Marco Simoncelli, Honda, 106 points

9. Colin Edwards, Yamaha, 90 points

10. Hiroshi Aoyama, Honda, 87 points

11. Hector Barbera, Ducati, 77 points

12. Alvero Bautista, Suzuki, 67 points

13. Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha, 52 points

14. Karel Abraham, Ducati, 50 points

15. Tony Elias, Honda, 47 points

16. Randy de Puniet, Ducati, 33 points

17. Loris Capirossi, Ducati, 29 points

Allen Clinches Western and National Championships

2011-09-16T17:50:00.002-04:00

Story and Photos Courtesy Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada

EDMONTON, Alberta (September 14, 2011) – Castrol Raceway - The silence at Castrol Raceway broke with the thunder of two V-Rod® Destroyer motorcycles, ridden by the two men who lined up for the prestigious title of Canadian Champion of the Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada-sponsored V-Rod® Destroyer Series. The Eastern Champion, Rocky’s Harley-Davidson®-sponsored Pete Thomson, once again faced off against the Western Champion, Redline Harley-Davidson® rider, Nick Allen, for the final CMDRA drag racing event of 2011.

A feeling of déjà vu fell over the Castrol Raceway when Saturday’s torrid temperatures gave way to bone-chilling cold and light rains that threatened to, once again, leave the championship undecided.

Both riders ran almost identical times all weekend. It would take one final run up the drag strip, and one of the most exciting finishes in V-Rod® motorcycle racing history, to answer the pending question of who would reign.

Our collective breath was held for the 9.521 seconds it would take to see in which lane the white finish lights would flash and decide the hard fought championship. Allen was first out of the box with a solid reaction time of .098 and gained a slight advantage at the 60 foot mark; it was enough for him to slide through the traps first and into his fifth consecutive Canadian Championship. Thomson gave it his all, but his slower reaction time would be his undoing; he crossed the line with a very good time of 9.544, only .023 of a second behind Allen. Both riders crossed the finish line at over 137 mph, the best top speeds of the day.

A disappointed Thomson commented after the race, “that was a really tough time for the sun to come out like that. I had trouble seeing the tree and I didn’t even see Nick’s lights at all. It was a good race though, and we did all we could do.”

Allen shared feelings of joy and relief, and clearly showed the strain of a hard fought battle after the race, saying, “this is the coolest thing ever. You know, we set out five years ago to go for five wins and we did it. We had a really tough year; we lost some races and we had to work really hard, so I’d say this victory is the one that will stand out.”

In the final Western event of the season, Saturday’s qualification turned out to be completely unpredictable with many of the top riders struggling and others rising to the occasion to show their mettle.

First round qualifications saw Allen’s protégé, Chris Perkins, also racing for Redline Harley-Davidson®/Volution Tune, slide to the top of the order with Allen close behind. Pete Thomson slid just ahead of Edge Harley-Davidson® rider, Rick Adams, while Rocky’s Harley-Davidson® rider, Dan Thomson, held a strong fifth, despite coming in under weight. Edge Harley-Davidson® rider, Jamie Moench, sat in a disappointing sixth overall. However, by the third round things began to shake up with Allen atop the leader board, just ahead of Perkins and the Heritage Harley-Davidson® rider, Shaun Rude, who made a dramatic rise into third. Moench improved his times enough to move up to fourth, while Pete Thomson slid backwards to fifth.

With the dramatic change of weather for Sunday’s elimination rounds, coupled with some long delays in the racing action, it was anyone’s guess as to the outcome of the finals.

First up was Nick Allen, who would eliminate Harley-Davidson®/Buell of Prince George rider, Kelly McCuaig, for the day’s action. Allen had a good run with an ET of 9.572 and a top speed of 136.77 mph. Next up was youngster, Chris Perkins, who dispatched the first of the Eastern riders when he sent Thunder Road Harley‑Davidson® rider, Paul Guerrieri, to the sidelines. Shaun Rude had a close battle with Mike Evanyshan and narrowly edged out the Sylvan Lake, Alberta, rider. Edge Harley-Davidson®-sponsored Rick Adams sent the second of the Eastern riders to the sidelines when he beat out MotoSport Plus of Kingston-sponsored Mitch McCallum. Jamie Moench then relegated Eastern import, Dan Thomson, to spectator status. Pete Thomson became the only rider from the Eastern contingent to move into round two when he displaced Pido Productions and Harley’s Hardrock Saloon racer, Jeff Pitre.

In the second round of eliminations, Allen beat out Rick Adams, who fouled out at the light, while Pete Thomson advanced ahead of Chris Perkins. Shaun Rude backed up his first round run with an ET of 9.693 and a top speed of 134.89 mph with a holeshot win to narrowly beat out brilliant young rookie, Jamie Moench.

Round three of eliminations saw Nick Allen with a bye run of 9.600 even and a top speed of 135.99 mph. Shaun Rude continued his torrid pace and sent the final Eastern rider, Pete Thomson, to the sidelines with another good run of 9.620 and a top speed of 135.99 mph, earning himself a well-deserved chance in the final.

As the day drew to a close, Allen and Rude lined up for the final race of the Western V-Rod® Destroyer Series. Once again, Allen showed his poise and charged to victory with an ET of 9.56 and a top speed of 136.67 mph to Rude’s run of 9.65 and top speed of 135.66 mph. Despite the loss, Rude was excited and proud of his run into the final saying, “I had a great weekend and I left nothing on the table. A great way to end the season.” The newly retired Allen has now won the Western V-Rod® Destroyer Series Championship for five consecutive seasons and looks ready to do so for many years to come.

Varsity Speed Park stays alive

2011-09-16T17:31:00.002-04:00

With the closure of Race City Motorsport Park this coming fall, it looked like racers were also going to lose the adjacent Varsity Speed Park as well. But Jay Fox, President of the Alberta Mini Roadracing Association (AMRA) happily announed that "we will have a separate lease with the City of Calgary and our great track will live on, supporting strong Mini Roadracing, Kart and Supermotard clubs. Thanks to all that never gave up and supported us all along."

Cownden Wins 2nd Straight Championship

2011-09-16T16:42:00.004-04:00

Damian Cownden and the DCR Top Fuel team arrived at Castrol Raceway in Edmonton, Alberta on September 10th with hopes of securing a second consecutive Drag Specialties/Parts Canada CMDRA Screamin' Eagle Top Fuel Championship. The team rolled their Nitro Harley-Davidson out of the hauler with a slim point lead over season long arch rival Nate Gagnon on the Big Kids Racing Nitro Harley.

After breaking the input shaft in the transmission during the first round of qualifying, the team replace the part in time to make one qualifying pass, and they made it a good one as Cownden qualified on the pole with a 6.54-second run at 217 mph. Nate Gagnon was just a tick behind at 6.58 but with a booming 224 mph speed.

Sunday morning the DCR team once again had issues this one traced to the electrical system. The crew was once again able to make repairs and get Damian to the starting line for the first round of eliminations against Jeff Knowles. Damian took the win and moved on to the semi-finals with a low 7-second run at 204mph over Knowles.

The team continued to battle electrical issues but were able to get past Kevin Boyer to earn a berth in the final round.

The final round could not have been scripted better. Cownden had a 25-point lead over Gagnon going into the final round, and a round win is worth 20 points. However if Gagnon could win and back up his 224mph run for a new record, he could take the championship from Cownden's hands. This left the entire Damian Cownden Racing team on edge; after all, they were still uncertain as to what the issue with their bike was. When the lights came down, Nate Gagnon took the lead and was ahead until the 1000-foot mark when his rear tire began to spin and he slowed enough to allow Cownden to slip by for the win.

“This was a difficult season," confessed Cownden after the race. "It didn’t start like we wanted, but we caught some breaks and were able to turn our season around. I have to give Nate Gagnon and his team credit - they brought out a brand new bike and were able to bring home the win in the first two events of the season, which is virtually unheard of. From then on they have been a contender for the win at every event.”

Cownden went on to discuss the importance of winning his second Top Fuel championship. "When I first started drag racing I never thought I would be racing in the Top Fuel class, let alone be fortunate enough to win two championships," he said. "I never could have done it without my dedicated team and sponsors. Having such a strong competitor like Nate only pushes us all to bring 110% to every event.”

Along with his second consecutive championship and three event wins in 2011, Damian Cownden was also awarded the CMDRA's coveted and humbling Rick Davie Memorial Award for Sportsmanship. The team now has three weeks to prepare for the final event of the AHDRA series in Rockingham North Carolina on October 8th and 9th.

Photo by Laura Millsip

Sachsenring Out; Argentina In for Future of MotoGP

2011-09-13T16:43:00.002-04:00

by Vicki Schouten

In a press conference held at Sachsenring this afternoon, organizers of the German MotoGP round announced that they will no longer be hosting MotoGP events as of 2012. ADAC, the organizer for Sachsenring's GP, sited financial losses as the reason for no longer hosting the prestigious world championship event. Losses from the 2011 race alone amounted to 600,000 Euros, meanwhile increases in Dorna's fees to host the event have also doubled, from 2 million Euros to 4 million Euros. Despite efforts to increase ticket prices, ADAC was still coming up short and is no longer able to host the MotoGP events. Sachsenring has played host to MotoGP events since 1998. It is expected that the Sachrenring event will be replaced by Lausitzring or Nurburgring.

Hot on the heals of the Sachsenring announcement, news also surfaced that MotoGP would return to Argentina in 2013. According to MotoGP.com, an agreement was signed in Paris today between the Argentian government, the Governor of Santiago del Estero province, OSD and Dorna Sports which secured a round of the MotoGP World Championship in Argentina for 2013. The Grand Prix of Argentina will be held at the Autodromo Termas de Rio Hondo in the Santiago del Estero province, as part of a three year deal. The agreement is subject to the necessary renovations being carried out to bring the circuit within the required MotoGP safety standards, according to MotoGP.com.

All of this news comes as riders and teams travel to Spain's Motorland Aragon for Round#14 of the MotoGP World Championship this weekend.

Toseland Announces Sudden Retirement

2011-09-09T12:07:00.001-04:00

from worldsbk.com

Double World Superbike Champion, James Toseland is retiring from professional motorcycle racing with immediate effect following a visit to Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mike Hayton, yesterday. The visit confirmed Toseland's worst fears that the damage sustained to his right wrist during a testing crash at Aragon earlier this year is irreparable and no amount of physiotherapy can repair the injury.

The crash which has turned out to be career-ending took place at the Spanish circuit in March this year and the 31-year-old's resulting battle to return to full fitness has been well publicised. However, having struggled with the injury during recent races and following a further crash at the last race at Nurburgring in Germany, the Yorkshireman has been told that it is no longer safe for him to continue his career in professional motorcycle racing.

Consultant Mike Hayton said: "JT has shown dedication and determination in our aim to recover the best possible function in his right wrist. We acted quickly to repair the damage with surgery and rehabilitation and, initially, believed that this had gone well, but we had also been clear from the outset that this was a potentially career-threatening and devastating injury.

"While his approach to recovery has been admirable and he has continued to make good progress, he has not recovered enough range of movement in the right wrist to continue as an elite motorcyclist. We had a difficult discussion on his future career, in which he showed a true sense of professionalism and an unselfish approach to making way for young, talented riders. To work with athletes like JT is a privilege and makes us do what we do."

James added: "2011 has been a tough year for me and this week has been one of the most difficult of my life, but advice from professionals has made it clear that my crash at Aragon has left me with a permanent disability, which means that I will never again be able to ride competently at this level. While that's hard to hear, I have to place the emphasis on the safety of other riders in the paddock as well as myself and I realise that it's not fair to occupy a World Superbike seat with a team as professional as BMW Motorrad Italia when there are fit and talented riders available who are desperate for this type of opportunity.

"I've been extremely fortunate to have enjoyed a long and successful career doing something I love and I'm really grateful for that. I've been lucky enough to bounce back from serious injuries in the past and I've had the support of a great family, brilliant friends and a fantastic fanbase to see me through the highs and lows. I'd like to thank the BMW Motorrad Italia team for their support and understanding and all of the personal sponsors who have remained loyal to me, including MMCG, Henderson and Bennetts.

"I hope that the team can find a replacement who is able to do justice to the bike and the people working on it. I hadn't expected my retirement to come at this time or in this way and I'm extremely sad to be leaving racing behind, but I still have the memories of the amazing opportunities and success that this career has provided me with."

Andrea Buzzoni, Project Director of the BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team and Director of BMW Motorrad Italia, declared: "On a personal level I am very sorry about James' retirement. This year I have had the opportunity to meet and work with James and I have been able to appreciate not only his professionalism, in such a difficulot year, but in particular his qualities as a person."

MotoGP Championship Tightens

2011-09-06T19:47:00.002-04:00

by Vicki Schouten

The fight for the MotoGP championship is far from over. Atleast, that's if defending number one plate holder Jorge Lorenzo has anything to say about it. The Factory Yamaha rider completed the perfect race at the Misano circuit in Italy last Sunday, grabbing the holeshot from points leader Casey Stoner and holding off the Repsol Honda rider, crossing the line 7.299 seconds clear of second place finisher Dani Pedrosa, and a full 11.967 seconds ahead of Stoner. "This was a special victory," explained Lorenzo, who had been fighting off difficulties in the last few rounds, "the championship is not over."

Stoner, who had won the last three MotoGP races, was struggling to recover from the travel period between Indianapolis and Misano, as well as a lingering neck injury he received in Assen, "We had the bike to win the race today," explained Stoner, "I just started to get tired and there was no way I could keep the pace."

After attempting to challenge Lorenzo for the first half the race, Stoner was eventually overtaken by Repsol Honda teammate Dani Pedrosa who crossed the line in second, leaving the current world championship points leader to settle for third.

A three-way battle for fourth entertained the crowd as Honda's Marco Simoncelli worked his way through the grid from 7th position, challenging Yamaha's Ben Spies and Repsol Honda's Andrea Dovizioso in a tight three way battle that saw the Italian Simoncelli come out on top. Although quite pleased with his 4th place result, Simoncelli only wishes he'd had a better start that might have afforded him the opportunity to challenge for a podium position, "I'm satisfied with this result as 4th place was a realistic target," explained the Italian, "but I'm a little bit angry because I made a mistake off the start."

Spies, who struggled in morning warm-up, made a big change to the motorcycle before the race and it took him a while to get used to the new settings. By the time he got comfortable with the changes and closed on Rossi, he wasn't quite able to overtake the Honda riders, leaving the popular Texan to settle for 6th place position.

Casey Stoner continues to lead the MotoGP championship by 35 points over Jorge Lorenzo. With 5 races remaining the battle for the championship is tightening. The next round of the MotoGP series takes place at Motorland Aragon on September 16.

Current MotoGP World Standings after 13/18 races:

1. Casey Stoner, Respol Honda, 259 Points;

2. Jorge Lorenzo, Yamaha Factory Racing, 224;

3. Andrea Dovizioso, Repsol Honda, 185;

4. Dani Pedrosa, Repsol Honda, 150;

5. Ben Spies, Yamaha Factory Racing, 135;

6. Valentino Rossi, Marlboro Ducati, 133;

7. Nicky Hayden, Marlboro Ducati, 105;

8. Marco Simoncelli, San Carlo Gresini Honda, 93;

9. Colin Edwards, Monster Tech 3 Yamaha, 87;

10. Hiroshi Aoyama, San Carlo Gresini Honda, 82;

11. Hector Barbera, Mapfre Aspar Ducati, 69;

12. Alvara Bautista, Rizla Suzuki, 57;

13. Karl Abraham, Cardion AB Ducati, 50;

14. Tony Elias, LCR Honda, 47;

15. Cal Crutchlow, Monster Tech 3 Yamaha, 45;

16. Randy de Puniet, Pramac Ducati, 29;

17. Loris Capirossi, Pramac Ducati, 29;

18. John Hopkins, Rizla Suzuki, 6;

19. Kousuke Akiyoshi, San Carlo Gresini Honda, 3

Excitement All 'Round at Indianapolis MotoGP

2011-08-28T16:01:00.012-04:00

Story and photos by Vicki Schouten

Casey Stoner increased his championship points lead at Indianapolis MotoGP today when he took the checkered flag, his seventh of the season and his third win in a row, ahead of team mate Dani Pedrosa and American favourite Ben Spies who fought to a well earned third place position.

Dani Pedrosa took the early lead, followed by defending champion Jorge Lorenzo while Stoner chased in third. Stoner acted quickly to overtake Lorenzo and tried to close the gap on Pedrosa. With 22 laps remaining, Stoner assumed the lead, while Pedrosa followed.

Ben Spies put in an exciting effort, as the rider who appeared the sole challenger to Stoner all weekend long. Spies had a bad start, combined with making contact with another rider into turn four, which meant he lost quite a lot of ground in the early laps and had his work cut out for him. The Yamaha Factory rider struggled at first to pass on the slick Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but eventually over took Nicky Hayden, Andrea Dovizioso, Marco Simoncelli and Jorge Lorenzo to take 3rd position.

According to Spies, it was a tough race following the challenges off the start. He came from a long way back and "had to make some creative passes" to move towards the front. Once he made the pass on his team mate for third, he rode a few hard laps to increase the gap but then settled into a comfortable pace for third as he knew the Repsol Honda riders were out of reach. Happy with third place in front of a home crowd, Spies now hopes to take this confidence to Misano.

Factory Yamaha rider Jorge Lorenzo finished in 4th position, while Andrea Dovizioso rounded out the top five.

Rizla Suzuki's Alvaro Bautista finished in 6th position with one of his best results of the season.

Valentino Rossi struggled with his Ducati throughout the race and eventually finished in 10th place, behind Colin Edwards (7th); Randy de Puniet (8th) and Hiroshi Aoyama (9th). Cal Crutchlow (11th); Marco Simoncelli (12th); Tony Elias (13th) and Nicky Hayden (14th) rounded out the finishing field.