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Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

Good stuff.

You bring back days when we seemed much freer and willing to experiment. Engineers will give you the science and math but tuning a chassis and suspension is art. Gusseting, bracing and triangulating for strength v trimming tabs and unneeded sections to save weight were the black art of tuning frames in the day. Lord save the poor sod on the bike or in the cockpit of the car if it went wrong.

mgcn.nl: Dr John 2v Racer – an article on a dutch website.

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Ferraci is still fast :evil ferraci.com

motorcyclemesum.org: 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Kenny Robert's dirt track racer

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Look at the skinny tubing on that rear swing arm and frame v today's massive units.

superbikeplanet.com: Yamaha TZ750 – Where legends began

I have managed to have a great time while almost getting some work done.
 
Oh wow , the memories !!

Dr. John had this girl Gina ( don't remember her last name) rider , she was a weapon in disguise. Very nice lady to boot !!

Spent some time listening and trying to understand Eraldo explain how things worked. Some times his English eluded many of us, but I think that was part of an act and his charm.
His piloto; as he called him at the time was Jimmy Adamo. We were all sad when Jimmy died at Daytona. A terrible end of a great talent.

Last I heard , our old TZ750 was in the care of Nick Ianatch the moto journalist.
I rode it a few times but never came to grips with it and was better suited to my TZ250.

Have pleasant memories of being a front, to middle of the pack, club racer , who occasionally had moments of brilliance and got up there with the fast guys. Did not take this old Detroit boy long to decide I was not supposed to be up there. Those guys are aliens IMHO !!

Every time I go to a vintage race and come home all excited. SWMBO tells me that even though I have the spirit to get out there with the old farts dragging parts. If the AMA starts allowing old guys with bum tickers to compete she will have another plan, and it probably does not include me and will cost me a lot more money.:dance
 
Wednesday, 11 April

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Melandri moves forward with S1000RR in testing

FWIW: Sportrider.com Suspension Tuning Guide gives a nice overview of the issue to understand the problem any rider faces to get the suspension set up to work for them and their ridding style. The article comes at it from a sport rider perspective but gives a nice overview discussion of all the components. However, there are major differences in the challenges sport riders and factory racing riders like Melandri and his team face in setting up suspension.

For the street sport rider the road is dynamic while the bike is static. The street rider is traversing frequently changing surfaces and conditions. Concrete to black top and back and forth between them. Within the same surface material you can be confronted with different ages of what you are riding over giving different grip characteristics and more. While the street is dynamic the bike static in the sense you will be using the same suspension bits, tires and electronics for extended stretches of the riding season. Sorting out the various settings for dampening, ride height, electronics and all the other bits and pieces till you have the set up you want can be great sport and can burn up a set of tires in the fun. A new set of the same tires will require a few tweaks to get the job done. Change tire selection may require a bit more refinement to get you to the point you want. That is half the fun.

For a Melandri and his BMW team the reverse is true in many ways. True track surfaces vary from track to track. Yet within one track the rider and team will be faced with a surface that has all been laid down at the same time. Allowing for problem areas of the track surface you may, unlike their street counterparts, assume a single consistent surface condition as you th the setup compromises. The bike is the dynamic component for the racing team.

When we open the garage door we are confronted with the bike, tools of the trade and a limited, if any, set of alternate suspension parts. For the factory racer the team unpacks on Thursday while he is at the press shows. When he walks through the garage doors he is confronted with a bike and a huge pile of parts. Various springs, shocks, swing arms, forks, triple clams and constantly changing and refining electronics. SBK bikes may be production based bikes but at this level they are the development bikes for the yearly iterations produced for us. History will help you sort through the pile to come up with solutions to questions of which parts and settings works best on that given track for a given racing weekend. That brings us to tyres.

Limited only by the strength of our wallet, we may select tires from a variety of brands and compounds. Conversely, factory teams have huge wallets but are limited to one brand, all be it with a variety of compounds, but with a very limited number of these for testing, practice, qualifying and racing. Racing compounds are the rarest of these and thus increases the challenge in testing to recreate a racing problem while working within the confines of the tyre allotment allowed by the rules.

Once all the parts and tyres are sorted out for either team member it should be a simple case of setting both team bikes up the same way. Haslam does not seem to be complaining about chatter so just have Melandri use his setup. The parts are the same and could be sorted out the same way and off we go racing. Right? This is where street and racing come together; the human element.

In the Corser/Xaus era of BMW SBK racing Xaus found himself on a bike set up for Corser on several occasions. Crashes race weekend or just setting the base line lead to this. No big deal right? Wrong! Several times over their time together Xaus observed that the suspension setup that really worked for Corser on a given track yielded a bike that was 'unrideable' for Xaus. The team of Haslam/Melandri appears to be much more closely aligned in skill and potential; yet, the too are different riders with very different riding styles requiring individual set ups.

The news in the WorldSBK release is encouraging. Melandri and his crew appear to have made a break through. Now the challenge is to build on that. Haslam's physical recover is very encouraging for fans following the fortunes of the Roundel racing team. The best news may be for the production line workers and the street riders lurking in the dealer showrooms. The S1000RRv1 was a bench mark bike. That mark has been moved in the right direction with the S1000RRv2. The factory teams are keeping this going. The racing S1000Rv2 was the season base line. Melandir's test bike is a S1000RRv2.025. The team will field the V2.03 at Assen. Things look promising on the racing side and bode well for more improvements in further S1000RRvX.

Now if only my knees bent like the did once upon a time and my wallet was thicker I would be sorting out the chatter problem on my RR instead of listening to the chatter of my keyboard while writing this. But those are other stories and dreams to be told over a large cup of coffee from the Official Fly-Over-Land coffee stop where for a buck you will get change and free parts like sugar or cream to refine the cups setup to your drinking style.


WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com: Edwards hails great job from team

motocycledaily.com: Valentino Rossi out of excuses after Qatar performance.

visordown.com: Rossi ÔÇ£I can't ride this DucatiÔÇØ

motorcyclistonline.com: Moto Guzzi V8 icon


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Ferrari still almost a second off the pace

formula1.com: Q&A with McLaren's Paddy Lowe on rules, tyres and upgrades

speedtv.com: Matchett ÔÇô More challenges ahead for Ferrari

racer.com: Bahrain chief blames 'scaremongering'

speedtv.com: FOTA says FIA not teams must make Bahrain call

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Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

Biandronno, 9th April 2012 ÔÇô The Husqvarna Motocross Team By Ricci Racing had a tough start to the World Championship on the Dutch sands of Valkenswaard where the opening race of the MX2 championship took place. Ale Lupino on his Husqvarna TC250 notched up the best result finishing in 13th place in both of the races held...MORE

FIM-live.com BMW Motorrad France Team Thevent head to Magny-Cours for this weekend's 76th edition of the Bol d'Or determined to get their 2012 Endurance World Championship campaign off to a flying start.

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On the Street

BMW Motorrad had a record first quarter but in the UK...
motorcyclenews.com: Honda CBR1000RR-FIREBLADE outsells R1200GS in March.
The big GS has been the leading bike in the UK what seems like years. Okay liars figure and figures lie but either way dealers sold more Firblades [CBR1000RR] than R1200GS'.

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Saxon motorcycles is for sale

indiancarsbikes.in: 2012 BMW F650GS launched, India price 999 lakhs
XE.com: exchange rates

jsonline.com: Analyst says Harley-Davidson sales will improve with better economy

motorcycle.com: Brammo Empulse finally headed for production

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The Mothership

MORE


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Cage World

Surfs up!
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FWIW

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</object>

Woot of the Day

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MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: When you drink alcohol, the first thing to go is your judgment. So when youÔÇÖre riding ÔÇô DUH ÔÇô donÔÇÖt. P.55 http://t.co/jfDAORhW

QOD: Which is true of riding in staggered formation with a group? http://t.co/vYxQ3hxt


Bike Candy

An interesting pair from Le Container

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Thursday, 12 April - Late abbreviated edition

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Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Marinellis view of new Panigales first racing steps

worldsbk.com: New Crescent FIXI Suzuki Squad comes on in leaps and bounds

motorcycle-usa.com: Five questions with Tom Sykes

visordown.com: Lascorz remains in intensive care [ based on press release 11 April]

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com: Ducati Rossi marriage on the rocks?

gazzetta.it[: Vale ÔÇô Ducati face to face needed . The image of both is at stake

gpone.com: Ago ÔÇô A private team isn't Rossi's answer

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

FIA.com: Grand Prix of China
FOM Circuit Map
FIA Circuit Map

Thursday Press Conference

formula1.com: China preview quotes

formula1.com: China preview ÔÇô who can spring a Shanghai surprise?

formul1.com: FIA rejects Lotus protest over Mercedes wing
FIA Documents: Protest, Decision

formula1.com: Q&A with Nico Hulkenberg

formula1.com: Susie Wolff joins Williams as development driver

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express.com: Teams meet to discuss Bahrain

bbc.co.uk: F1 teams expect Bahrain Grand Prix to be called off



Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

fim-live.com: SERT takes early lead in qualifiers ÔÇô [Bol d'Or]

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indycar.com: Barrichello gets extra time at certain tracks

They want to do it again: BMW Team RLL returns to Long Beach
..MORE

On the Street

amaproracing.com: Tech ÔÇô Thread lock

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zobOzpKb0dI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

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MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


Bike Candy

IOMTT ÔÇô Driver challenges abound.

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Friday, 13 April

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Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Joan Lascorz update

crash.net: June date scheduled for Checa Panigale test

worldsbk.com: [18 year old American] PJ Jacobsen with Bagdanka at Assen

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com; Ellison pleased with positive weekend

cycleworld.com: New MotoGP tire debuts at Jerez

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

FIA.com - Chinese GP
Stewards Biographys

formula1.com: Sebastian Vettel Q&A ÔÇô Red Bull wins are just a matter of time

reuters.com: Webber speaks up where others stay silent | Bahrain

But:

formula1.com: FIA announces Bahrain race will go ahead

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Chinese GP ÔÇô Practice 1 Hamilton tops damp session

First Session Classifications
First Session Lap Times

But - fia.com Hamilton takes grid penalty
formula1.com: Lewis Hamitlon Q&A ÔÇô Fighting back from a five place penalty should be fun

Chinese GP ÔÇô Practice 2 Schumacher pips Hamilton to set the pace
Second Session Classifications
Second Session Lap Times

formula1.com: Friday Practice ÔÇô Selected team and driver quotes

fia.com: Friday Press Conference
TEAM REPRESENTATIVES ÔÇô Matt MORRIS (Sauber), Antonio CUQUERELLA
(HRT), Dave GREENWOOD (Marussia), James ALLISON (Lotus), Paddy LOWE
(McLaren), Pat FRY (Ferrari)

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

fim-live.com: Eventful free practice at the Bol d'Or

gazzetta.it: China ÔÇô everything points to McLaren. Alonso: We are like ants

racintoday.com: Jim Hall Blew 'em away in paddock, on tracks

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Munich, 12th April 2012. BMW Motorsport and technical partners Castrol EDGE, today unveiled Augusto Farfus (BR) as the driver of the Castrol EDGE BMW M3 DTM for the manufacturerÔÇÖs first season in the series for twenty years. The 28-year-old Brazilian will be competing in the number 16 Castrol EDGE BMW M3 DTM for the yearÔÇÖs eleven race events...MORE

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indycar.com: Chevy to change 11 engines - entries will be penalized

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On the Street

jsonline.com: Motorcycle runs on vegetable oil: pass the french fry grease, please

thekneeslider.com: Garage life feeds your workshop fantasy

moneycontrol.com: 2012 BMW S1000RR ÔÇô first ride
FWIW: Not new ground but new site for BMW's S to conquer

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motorcyclenews.com: Own a bespoke classic BMW cafe racer

i-qtp2FRD-M.jpg


visordown.com: Riders wanted for BMW GS Trophy [GB Team]

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Cage World

roadandtrack.com: Porsche buys Nardo

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UkrZ0g2imkU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5yJcWBfMQjI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Where you ride in a lane may vary, but always, always avoid riding in another vehicleÔÇÖs blind spot. P.16 http://t.co/jLCSL9Kj

QOD: When parking in a parallel parking space next to a curb, which of the following is true? http://t.co/LQn2kZLZ

Bike Candy

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Saturday, 14 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today


motogp

motomatters.com: After a week of rumors Rossi tells Italian TV he will stay with Ducati
FWIW: For now. With ex's and Rossi you never know for certain.

motomatters.com: Casey Stoner explains how to slide a MotoGP bike

motogp.com: Capirossi appointed BMW m MotoGP expert
FWIW: don't get all excited.

MotoGP Rewind – Qatar


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

Friday Leftovers :eat

fia.com: Vettel happier with older spec Red Bull RB8

fia.com: Ferrari to face a major overhaul – Fry

fia.com: Lotus moves on from 'DDRS' protest

gazzetta.it: Montezemolo optomistic “Ferrari like little ant”

formula1.com: Friday analysis – are Mercedes really in the hunt?

Saturday P3 and Qualifying Chinese GP

P3 Classifications
P 3 Lap Times

formula1.com: Final practice – Hamilton heads McLaren one two
The McLaren boys showed up at the end of the session and took it away from the Tri-Star gang.

Qualifying
Classification
Lap Times
Maximum Speed
Sector Times
Speed Trap

Qualifying Notes
Q1: Perez and Sauber top the field at the end of Q1. Red Bull has split their cars with Webber taking the latest version and Vettel the older. Webber as the edge in qualifying. Less than a second cover P1 to P17. P18 -24 are knocked out after Q1 but Karthykeyan in P24 is just shy of being two seconds quicker than the 107% pace so there will be a full field. Stewards are investigating various block allegations. Grid penalties could be handed out.

Q2: Webber jumped to P1 on his final flyer to take P1 in this session while Vettel was ten slots behind in P11 and will not advance to Q3. Massa P12 will join him at the bar but ant Alonso P10 squeaks into Q3. Ferrari had not be expected to get a car into Q3. The Mercedes and Saubers best the McLarens and the Lotus tandem are just ahead of Alonso. Less than three tenths of a second separate P1 and P10 as the session ends.

Q3: Hamilton takes the early lead with Schumacher in P2. The board jumbles as others post times only to have Hamilton and Schumacher head the field on their second flying laps for the first round of qualifying laps in this session. At the halfway mark Rosberg pits on top of the board while Webber comes out for his first runs. Rosberg remains in the pit while everyone else is on track trying to best his time of 1:35.121 a full half second faster than Hamilton in P2 when the flag falls and people are making their final flyers. No one can and Rosberg takes the pole for Mercedes. Hamilton's gear box penalty translates his P2 qualifying effort into a P7 on Sunday's grid. This promotes Schumacher to P2 and gives Mercedes the front row.

Many interesting story lines for Sunday. Mercedes has clean air qualifying pace but do they have racing pace this weekend? How will the Red Bull split work out? Webber opted for qualifying speed but Vettel felt the old spec car better balanced. Will balance and strategy move him up in race conditions? Parked on row 5 waiting for the red lights to go out Alonso is in position to bring home a little bit for Ferrai once again. Toss a pair of Saubers and Lotus into the mix for some spice and the seeming dominate McLarens will be lined up in P5 and 7; not the anticipated 1,2.

More penalties could be handed out mixing the field a bit more. For now it is a Mercedes 1,2 front row for the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix.

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

motorcycle-usa.com WERA cancels Talladega National

asphaltandrubber.com: Bol d'Or qualifying results

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zg6f9OzPy7A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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cycleworld.com:: The Circuit of the Americas marks a construction milestone


On the Street

thekneeslider.com: Rediscover lost knowledge : The concrete lathe

motorcycle.com: Michigan mandatory helmet law repealed

motorcycledaily.com: A beautiful hoax | 2013 Harley-Davidson FXDX

motorcyclenews.com: James Toesland gets back on two wheels with Harley-Davidson

visordown.com: Six words, three half truths

webbikeworld.com: 2012 Honda CRF 250

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The Mothership

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3O3eASgXACA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


i-xPthPmT.jpg


FWIW

speigel.de: 'We read best on paper' : Cultural resistance hobbles German ebook market

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<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/C9UD2oslR9k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>



Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations – Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series – Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey…
Before a log trip…
Before winter…
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Never use your throttle and front brake at the same time except when matching the RPM during a downshift with a short rev or blip.

QOD: Which of the following is true of making eye contact with other drivers? http://t.co/FvClLdvE


Bike Candy

i-CVQFBbb-L.jpg
 
Last edited:
Sunday, 15 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today

Formula 1

Qualifying Leftovers :eat

Qualifying Press Conference

fia.com: Magical day for Mercedes
formula1.com: A look at Merccedes' rear wing

fia.com: 11th palced Vettel banks on race pace

formula1.com: Red Bull RB8 oldstyle exhaust setup and the standard exhaust setup Webber will be using.

fia.com: Sauber welcome qualifying gains

orlandosentinael.com: Alonso says usual suspects will fight for Formula 1 title

speedtv.com: F1 Grand Prix news briefs

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RACE:

Look for a post this evening with all the numbers, press conference transcripts and more. Till then here are my race notes. I am off to bed.

Formula 1 Chinese GP Race notes

The Mercedes had qualifying pace but do they have race pace? Can Hamilton overcome his five spot grid penalty? Which RB8 spec will be the quicker in race conditions. Will Lotus be a factor in more than the first laps of the race? These are a few of the story lines to follow.

The story lines to follow expanded overnight. Toro Rosso driver Jean Eric Vergne will start the race from the pit lane. The team made changes to his car after qualifying P18. The change needed was worth incurring the required penalty. Trough be told it can be something of an advantage in some cases.

The red lights come on as the field lines up on the grid after the formation lap. Red then green and the race is under way.

1/56
Rosberg and Schumacher hold position with Button Raikkonen and Hamilton in tow. Hamilton has made short work of the penalty. Webber is falling back to P9 from his P6 start. Vettel is headed in the wrong direction in the race standings too.

3/56
Rosberg still in the lead and going purple with each lap. A 0.7 second lead has grown to 1.6 seconds.

4/56
Vernge is listed in P20 after his pit lane start.

The field is tightly bunch. 15 seconds split P1 and the current P15 of Maldonado.

7/56
Webber dives into the pits to switch to mediums. A very early stop for him.

8/56
Webber is listed in P20 but his sector times are lighting up purple then he sets a new best lap. The tire change may have been worth it but how will he cycle when others make their stops? Meanwhile up from Rosberg is 4.7 away on Schumacher who is leading the parade behind him.

10/56
The board lights up as several drivers head into the pits to make changes. Mediums appear to be the choice for the second leg of the race.

Hulkenberg takes a new nose along with his tires during his first pit stop. There is a story there but I don't know what it is.

11/56
Vettel made a pit stop a lap ago for a set of mediums and now goes purple setting the new best lap.

13/56
Schumacher pits. Rosberg still out on the track is shown with a 9 second lead over Perez currently P2.

Rosberg pits. How will the Silver Arrows cycle through the field?

Perez and Massa are P1 and 2 currently but have yet to make their first stop.

Rosberg has settled in to P3 behind them while teammate Schumacher has parked it on the side of the track and is out of the race. Replays show problems during the pit with the front right. Tire problems it would seem. The team may get penalized for an unsafe release.

16/56
Perez pits from the lead.

17/56
Rosberg passes Massa for the lead and promptly goes purple.

19/56
Massa pits and now the front 10 have all maade at least one pit stop.

Lap 20
P1-10: Rosberg, Button, Hamilton, Webber, Raikkonen, Alonso, Kobayashi, Grojean, Vettel and Perez. Rosberg's currently showing a 4.7 second lead on the field.

21/56
Webber pits. He will rejoin in P14. This sets off another round of stops.

Rosberg is not pulling away. The McLarens are matching or slightly bettering him in each sector.

23/56
Hamilton pits from P3 returns in P13.
Button is now 4.3 seconds adrift of Rosberg.
Webber goes purple. He is currently in P14.

25/56
Button pits for another set of mediums. Rosberg should pit shortly. He has an 11.5 second lead over the new P2 Raikkonen. Time will tell.

26/56
Hamilton has been pressuring Massa and finally makes it past for P11 throwing the Ferrari into the clutches of Webber. P 7 Button goes purple on his new set of tyres.

27/56 .
Webber makes his way around Massa. Alonso pits from P3 and takes a set of softs.

At the half way point Rosberg is in the lead with a 16.4 second lead over Grojean in P2. Neither has made the second pit stop. Vettel was in P3 when I began this sentence now Button has mad it past him. Vettel pits right away.

The field is cycling their pits stops in a very strung out fashion. Positions are being traded based more on pit stop timing that track performance.

31/56
Venge P16 goes purple with a 1:41.417
32/ 56
Button goes purple with a 1:40.908! The lead is down to just over 12 seconds for Rosberg. When will he pit?

33/56
Vettel's turn to go purple.

34/56
Hamilton is defending from Webber.

35/56
Rosberg pits. Webber pits too. Not having to defend Hamilton begins to attack Perez for P3.

Rosberg rejoins in P2 9.5 seconds behind Button. Hamilton makes it past Perez as he pits. Hamilton is 4.3 seconds adrift of Rosberg in P3. Alonso P4 is 0.7 seconds behind him and charging.

37/56
Rosberg is listed 8 seconds behind Button. Live timing is speculating on pit stops remaining. Will Button have to pit one more time? That is there estimate. Rosberg may be able to make it to the end without another stop forcing Button to take him on the track instead of the pits.

39/56
Button pits. Problems in the pit and he returns in P6.

41/56
Button passes Grosjean for P5. Massa currently listed in P2 has yet to make his second stop. This gives Button another slot without a fight on the trak.

42/56
Massa pits. Rosberg is showing a 22.2 second lead over Raikkonen in P2. 3-10 currently are Vettel, button, Grosjean, Webber, Senna, Hamilton, Maldonado and Alonso. From 2-10 there is a second or less between each car.

43/56
Alonso makes a mistake. Perez takes advantage of it collecting P10 in the process. In the points paying positions The McLarens and Webber have made 3 stops. The rest have made two and are big question makes about making it to the end.

45/56
Rosberg is showing a 24.1 second lead. With 11 laps to go do you dive into the pits and pick up new tyres or dial it back and conserve the ones you have? The latter strategy has the dual advantage of less risk while baiting the train behind to fight each other for position.

46/56
Mercedes is urging Rosberg to take care of his tyres. The strategy may be set. May being the key.

Raikkonen is in P2 25.5 seconds behind the leader but Vettel and Button are within a second of him.

48/56
Vettel and Button make it past. Raikkonen is off line in the process and gives up position to Hamilton the Webber. Next Gosjean and Senna make it past and he keeps falling down the grid.

50/56
Rosberg's lead is 25.1 seconds. Vettel in P2 and less than a second behind is Button. The remaining top ten are Hamilton, Webber, Grosjean, Senna, Maldonado, Alonso and Kobayashi.

51/56
Button passes Vettel. Can he hunt down Rosberg in time? Unless Rosberg has a serious problem I doubt it. Can Vettel hold off P4 Hamilton? That may depend his defensive ability and how much pressure Webber can put on Hamilton. In the closing laps of the race this threesome will duel for P3.

54/56
Hamilton makes it past. Vettel is 0.1 behind but as the sector times go up he is losing ground to the McLaren.

55/56
Webber takes P4 from Vettel. Webber too does not show the sector times to catch Hamilton.

Rosber takes the chequered flag for a Mercedes victory! Button and Hamilton will fill the rest of the podium slots. The remaining points positions in order are Webber, Vettel, Grosjean, Senna, Maldonado, Alonso and Kobayashi.

Rosberg's Mercedes had race pace. One has to wonder where Schumacher would have slotted in if he had not had problems in the pits.

The McLarens remain strong and should go into the next round, where ever that is, as favorites.

Not much to choose between the versions of the RB8s. Webber may have finished ahead of Vettel but he only gained two grid spots in the end while Vettel moved from P11 to P5 in his race.

Ferrari's up hill struggle is underscored with Alonso's P9 and Massa's P13. Grosjean, Senna and Maldonado bested him; while Kobayashi, Perez and Di Resta slotted between him and Massa.

Alonso was a good 'ant' and brought a little bit home but not enough to keep the surprising lead he took to China. Hamilton takes the Driver Championship lead with Button just behind moving Alonso to third. Webber and Vettel are right on his tail.

Both Ferrari and Red Bull have a good deal of work to do when they get back home and the European tracks. Red Bull task seems more one of refinement while Ferrari is looking for full make over. Bahrain is between them and home.

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

fim-live.com: Sidecar Championship - PAIVARINTA & HANNI WINNERS IN FRANCE!

A concept bike that won't die on the web.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Qp-8YzPt2lY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
2012 BMW R12 Cafe Racer & Roadster design by Nicolas Petit photo compilation / More infos*http://petit-motorcycle-creation.over-blog.com*/ Many thanks designer NICOLAS PETIT / More motorcycle videoshttp://www.youtube.com/user/2012motorcycles

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WH241F3v3m4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MLPul4dkYiE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

indycar.com: Briscoe sets record, Franchitti stats 1st

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/K5LlRFsfIVs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

On the Street

motorsportwire.com: Ducati North America reports seven consecutive quarters of retail growth

asphaltandrubber.com: zecOO: An electric maxi-scooter from Japan

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Fast motorcycle industry news


The Mothership

NHTSA Campaign No. 12V16000
Dated: APR 05, 2012 BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 5-SERIES, 5-SERIES GRAN TURISMO, MODEL YEAR 2012 6-SERIES CONVERTIBLE, 7-SERIES, X5 SAV, AND X6 SAV VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8- OR 12-CYLINDER, TURBOCHARGED, EN...

[url=http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/recalls/results.cfm?rcl_id=12V166000&searchtype=quicksearch&summary=true&refurl=rss]NHTSA Campaing No. 12V188000
Dated: APR 05, 2012 ROLLS-ROYCE IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 GHOST VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8- OR 12-CYLINDER, TURBOCHARGED, ENGINES BECAUSE THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE ELECTRIC AUXILIARY WATER PUMP CAN OVERHEAT.


[url=https://www.press.bmwgroup-sport.com/pressclub/p/sp/pressDetail.html?outputChannelId=52&id=T0126211EN&left_menu_item=node__7136 ]Double podium for BMW Team Schubert at the N??rburgring.


FWIW

WSBK has talked about changing their format. The Bol d'Or video from Honda TT legends gives an idea of the more relaxed pit stops in endurance racing. Would flying pit stops for fuel and tyres work in SBK?

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Penguin on a plane
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/C9CA7sDFWV8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Motorcycling excellence. You know the best defense to avoid trouble in traffic is to be skilled in the use of your eyes

QOD: What should you do to ride safely at night? http://t.co/554BqJ6h


Bike Candy

Check out Pipeburn for more information and bits of this candy

i-FpmHsZD-M.jpg


:snore
 
Racing Update: Sunday, 15 April

SBK

motomatters.com: Ten Kate Honda squad complete testing at Assen

Formula 1 RACE -

FIA Press Conference

RACE:
Starting Grid
Classifications
Lap Chart
Lap Analysis
Fastest Laps
Race History
Maximum Speeds
Pit Stop Summary
Sector Times
Speed Trap

From the official FIA.com news site:

Stewards fined Mercedes Ôé¼5,000 for their pit stop incident. The prompt action of the driver to park the car was taken into consideration.

Rosberg makes history with victory
Red Bull fights back in China
Grosjean makes his mark
Double points finish for Williams

From the official Formula1.com news site:

Selected team and driver quotes

Other Sources:

bbc.co.uk; Lewis Hamilton will not take championship lead for granted.
 
Monday, 16 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

Assen Preview
Munich/Stephanskirchen, 16th April 2012. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport heads to the Dutch province of Drenthe for the next race weekend. The iconic ÔÇ£TT CircuitÔÇØ in Assen will host the third round of the 2012 FIM Superbike World Championship from 20th to 22nd April. The team, with factory riders Leon Haslam (GBR) and Marco Melandri (ITA), is looking to continue the fine form it showed in the opening two rounds of the season. ...MORE

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

mot-station.com; MotoGP 2013 ÔÇô Budget limits, Honda and Yamaha mixed


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

]formula1.com: China analysis ÔÇô Mercedes makes the breakthrough

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

fim-live.com: The SRC Kawasaki clinches the victory at Bol d'Or

fim-live.com: BMW S 1000 RR: DIFFICULT START TO THE 2012 ENDURANCE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aJBEFIS-L7k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

motoracinglive.com: A question of age
Endurance racing is one of the few world championships where youngsters compete directly with riders aged 40 or more.* 

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kNN5b2Unj6c" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

fim-live.com: Qatar Sealine Cross-Country Rally

espn.com: IndyCar ÔÇô Will Power exceeds expectations.

stayontheblack.com: Points and a podium finish for Buildabase BMW Motorrad at Thruxton

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/J3ztg1cYZzY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

gazzetta.it: Difficult debut for Rossi ÔÇô Finished 18th in the rain at Monza

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vWUbqh8U4v4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


On the Street

cycleworld.com: Electric brakes ÔÇô The next revolution in motorcycling?

thejakartapost.com: Honda motorcycle sales up 75% in the first quarter.
FWIW: world markets are improving for the big four


The Mothership

BMW Team RLL at Long Beach; Four Years ÔÇô Four Podiums
15.04.2012
Woodcliff Lake, N.J.  April 14, 2012*With a second place GT class finish by the No. 56 BMW Team RLL M3 GT in todays American Le Mans Series at Long Beach race, BMW is tied for the manufacturers point lead. The second podium of the young ALMS season for Joey Hand and Dirk M??ller solidifies their lead in the drivers standings...MORE

Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: SEE: Search - Evaluate - Execute. To Evaluate, plan how you're going to handle information or hazards gathered in the Search process.

QOD: If you accidentally lock the rear brake on a good traction surface, what should you do? http://t.co/NRUGYx2v


Bike Candy

i-Vr2RxNW-M.jpg


A picture is worth a thousand words; especially when the words are in Japanese. I follow the various blogs from Ritmo Sereno, the Japanese specialty shop. The photography of the development of their project bikes is incredibly instructive. For a thousand words in English and some more pictures of today's treat head on over to BikeEXIF
 
Tuesday, 17 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Sykes overjoyed with ZX-10R progress

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

asphaltandrubber.com: Jerez remains on the 2013 calendar but only 3 Iberian races next year


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Bahrain preview quotes

formula1.comQ&A with Mercedes Norbert Haug

formula1.com: Q&A with Sebastian Vettel - ÔÇ£We simply weren't fast enoughÔÇØ

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/l5sC4RyWKGs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LwDNtl1Uiqk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Ww3ooSvoAP0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

asphaltandrubber.com: Husqvarna Nuda 900R goes racing

motorcyclistonline.com: MV Agusta Quattro 500

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YoXv_TCwv5k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VAwS7Iuw6to" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


On the Street

sundayworld.com: Trail blazer

cycleworld.com: Two stroke return?

cyrilbuzeblog.com: Show me your office ÔÇô Jeff Decker

moto-station.com: Maxitest ÔÇô Suzuki GSX1250FA, on the brink of a GT

visordown.com: Triump 125cc rumors reemerge

webbikeworld.com: Arai XD4 review

Wish the Intercity Fly-Over-Land Airport had a display like Zurich's
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oZF1m-7Sois" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
We don't even allow bicycles.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KI1eSnj0Xo4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9EpKPHtSag4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-aEN8Huwb3I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oq8YJQH2ifs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Cage World

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MJQAS8qnjKY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-o7ic1oqeoc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VWVdLJTqLjQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RyzvaRcXJIw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

i-NGF8K5H-S.jpg


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Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Need to slow down in a corner? Keep looking through the corner and sensitively, smoothly keep braking. http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: What should you do when riding through turns? http://t.co/UrEVMN3D


Bike Candy

BMW R65 Cafe Racer via Caferrecerculter.net

i-XBGRH89-M.jpg


i-r6GF92X-M.jpg


i-MXcPhdn-M.jpg


i-fcKP3Gd-M.jpg
 
Wednesday, 18 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

gpone.com: Assen to turn 300

worldsbk.com: Points leader Checa prepares for Dutch action

speedtv.com: BMW hunting first victory

roadracingworld.com: Crescent FIXI Suzuki building momentum for Assen attack

BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA GOLDBET SBK TEAM - ASSEN - PREVIEW....MORE

worldsbk.com: Xaus helps to promote WSB in Russia

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

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Translation: 'we have evolved to much for my taste'
FWIW: What do cartoon 'writers' know.

motogp

motogp.com: Hayden to test at Mugello

motogp.com: Crutchlow ÔÇô I'm a lot more confident this year

motomatters.com: Between the devil and the deep blue sea
Valentino Rossi's options for the future


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Bahrain preview quotes

jamesallenonf1.com: Caterham working on exhaust improvements

telegraph.co.uk: Bahrain Grand Prix 2012 ÔÇô 'no Formula One over our blood' cry protesters ahead of weekends race

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4SPAIfJsphk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zbOzzOm-hZc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

bbc.co.uk: Ecclestone cast doubts on US [NJ] race

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/HYfQBOQe99M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

ultimatemotorcycling.com: IOMTT.com to stream TT 2012 live

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BIwNEDAukug" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

On the Street

ÔÇ£*"The Ducati acquisition is driven by VW's passion for nameplates rather than industrial or financial logic," said Credit Suisse's Arndt Ellinghorst. ÔÇ£

HOWEVER YOU COUNT THEM, AUDI BUYS DUCATI FOR A LOT OF ?ú, Ôé¼, $ AND DEBT
the stories ÔÇô all are based on a story by reuters.com with different spins.

visordown.com
motorcyclenews.com
motoblog.it
asphpaltandrubber.com
cyrilhuzeblog.com
dealernews.com

<script src="http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?height=360&embedCode=RhN2VoNDrhqh6HoxIvW62fZUjMdlGDh7&width=640&deepLinkEmbedCode=RhN2VoNDrhqh6HoxIvW62fZUjMdlGDh7"></script>

FWIW: Everyone will be second guessing Audi and this deal.

Technology for small engines has been touted as one of the values of the acquisition. It makes good press but I am less sanguine that is a valid explanation. At various times different portions of the conglomerate that is Volkswagen Group have been linked with various technical projects that parallel what Ducati may have to offer.

The cash portion may not be all that bad. Ducati's recovery has been ahead of the industry curve. It is an attractive brand for expansion in the hot South American and Indian markets. In normal business terms it may not be out of line; however, the roughly 600+ mln euro is significantly more than other motorcycle companies have recently demanded. But then Ducati presents a much different situation than they.

Several of the articles point to the debt acquisition portion of the deal. We don't know is what that debt is for. If it will help support increases in business, great. It is not inconceivable that VW/Audi with some of the 342 (and growing in number) companies that make up the group may already be supplies and in effect own some of that debt. The other little secret is in the acquisition process an unknown portion of it will be negotiated away with the vendors and various holders.

The sale price and how the balance sheet looks in the end are fun to talk about down at the Official Coffee Shop but little more.The bottom line for motorcycle enthusiasts is what does this mean for riders. If it maintains or improves the marque, fantastic. Great news for Ducati fans and keeps the pressure on the competition, like BMW/Husqvarna, to improve to fight off competition. The danger of a specialty brand being lost in a big conglomerate and lowering the bar is a potential.

For all points only time will tell if this makes sense for anyone other than Investindustrial, who will be depositing VW/Audi's check in their bank account.

cycleworld.com: Will the motorcycle of the future come from Pasadena

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Convincing Harley-Davidson print magazine ad

motorsportsnewswire.com: 2012 BMW S1000RR gets an 8.5 horsepower boost from the Two Brothers Racing full exhaust system

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WxwDu8sUgLk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The Mothership

Singapore. Cycle paths and single tracks will be more vibrant this summer thanks to the fresh colour combinations of BMWÔÇÖs 2012 bikes. The BMW Cruise Bike and Mountainbike Enduro will have a hip new design with exciting colour accents....MORE

Woodcliff Lake, NJ  April 17, 2012**BMW is pleased to present a new series of sounds works presented with Frieze that will be part of inaugural program for Frieze New York....MORE

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/G9nOMePaP48" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Cage World

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nCa--xuKTYM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fhaKMyu_o3s" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aqIZC25aYxc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JREEUGaRxN0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

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Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

QOD: Which of the following is a feature of a shatter resistant face shield? http://t.co/CGi1agNu


Bike Candy

I really like technical drawings, especially exploded diagrams. :smile

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Thursday, 19 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

paddocktalk.com: World Superbike faces an unpredictable weekend at Assen

crash.net: Haslam – first BMW win is close

crash.net: 'Privateer' Rea riding on the edge

crash.net: Giugliano out to forget Imola disaster

roadracingworld.com: No replacement rider for Kawasaki's Joan Lascorz at Assen

mcnews.com.au: A statistical look at Assen

bikesportnews.com: Assen WSBK – time to step up for fully fit Laverty

stayontheblack.com: Fabrizio and Badovini test at Mulgellos Autodromo National

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7e_CjpMl_8w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp


MotoGP – After the Flag at Qatar

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Bahrain preview and quotes

reuters.com: Bahrain not business and normal for Formula 1

gazzetta.it: Alonso pushes Ferrari 'Lets make this jump'

autoweek.com: Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix primer

speedtv.com: 2012 rules deliberately attacked Red Bull claims Helmut Marko

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ksn3bUePZwo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/e15ojeJ84rk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

Biandronno, 18th April 2012 – The second round of the MX2 World Championship takes place this weekend at the superb Sevlievo track in Bulgaria. Over the years Sevlievo has earned its place as perhaps the finest circuit that the world of motocross has to offer, and has always been lucky for the Husqvarna colours. In fact, it was Sevlievo that played host to Husqvarna’s last victory in a world motocross race – 23rd June 2002 - with Alex Puzar on his Husqvarna CR 125. ...MORE

utlitmatemotorcycling.com: Sealine KTM Coma wins stage one

dealernews.com: Norton Motorcycles to field 2012 Isle of Man TT competitor

visordown.com: Norton's Aprilia based TT bike
motorcyclenews.com: New Norton V4 to race senior TT

i-QN9NVWq-S.jpg


<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Ol_u7ixHhhY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

indcar: Moving a racing series to Brazil

On the Street

Hot topic so take your pick of articles and explanations.
asphaltandrubber.com: Officially official – Audi's board approves the acquisition of Ducati
and in cycleworld.com, motoblog.it, motorcycle-usa.com, wired.com, washingtonpost.com, nytimes.com, businessweek.com, latimes.com, msnbc.com

motorradonline.de: MC Airbag by Dainese

webbikeworld.com: Nelson Rigg CL 950 saddlebag review
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/b64LJUhMTlM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


The Mothership


reuters.com: Audi - Ducati, :scratch They did WHAT? :rofl

Cage World

i-rrJ4NtP-M.jpg


FWIW

POLARIS [parent company of Victory and Indian Motorcycles] REPORTS RECORD FIRST QUARTER 2012 RESULTS; EPS INCREASED 27% to $0.85 ON 25% SALES GROWTH
First Quarter Highlights:
?À Net income increased 27% to $60.1 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, with sales climbing 25% to $673.8 million, representing a record for first quarter sales and earnings.*
?À Off-Road Vehicle sales increased 30% and On-Road Vehicle sales increased 44% during the 2012 first quarter.
?À North American retail sales remained strong, increasing 17% in the first quarter compared to a year ago.
?À Gross profit margins expanded 60 basis points to 28.9% due to manufacturing realignment savings and lower product and warranty costs.
?À Raising guidance for full year 2012 earnings to a range of $3.85 to $4.00 per diluted share, an increase of 20% to 25% over 2011 based on expected full year 2012 sales growth of 10% to 13%.

On-Road Vehicle sales, comprised primarily of Victory motorcycles, but also including
Indian motorcycles and our GEM and Goupil electric vehicles, increased 44 percent over Q1 2011
to $64.7 million. Notably, the 2011 acquisitions of Indian, GEM and Goupil contributed about half of
On-Road Vehicles first quarter revenue growth. North American industry heavyweight cruiser and
touring motorcycle retail sales increased mid-teens percent during the 2012 first quarter compared
to the prior year’s first quarter. Over the same period, Victory North American unit retail sales
increased approximately 40 percent, while North American Victory dealer inventory increased
slightly versus 2011 levels to support these sales and market share gains. During the 2012 first
quarter the Company began shipments of two new Victory models, the Victory Hard-Ball™ and the
new Victory Judge™, an American muscle motorcycle. Polaris sales of On-Road Vehicles to
customers outside of North America, now including Goupil, increased over 100 percent during the
2012 first quarter compared to the prior year’s first quarter.

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</object>


Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations – Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series – Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey…
Before a log trip…
Before winter…
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: It only takes a 25 mph wind to make m/c riding challenging. Gusty is worse. How to handle here. P.42 http://t.co/jfDAORhW

QOD: MSFs SEE strategy stands for what? http://t.co/v0066Goh


Bike Candy

i-z8LhkMn-M.jpg
 
Friday, 20 April

i-2Zd7bR6-S.jpg
Members with Birthdays Today

Early edition for Friday and the beginning of a busy racing weekend. Teams are preparing for Assen and questioning why they are at Bahrain. Posts and updates will follow through the weekend.



SBK

bikesportnews.com: Assen WSBK – 'There is no margin for error' – Biaggi

motomatters.com: Assen World Superbike press release preview roundup

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

ducati.com: Rain affects Ducati test at Mugello

gpone.com: Stoner – 'Stop change the MotoGP rules'

motogp.com: De Angelis completes MotoGP test for Forward

moto-station.com: A softening of the Ducati GP12 engine


motoblog.it: After Yamaha, Honda now excludes the return of Rossi to in the factory team

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

FIA Bahrain GP information
http://www.bahraingp.com
Race Preview
Stewards
[http://fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/f1_media/Documents/bhn-circuit.pdf ]FOM Circuit Map[/url]
FIA Circuit Map

Thursday Press Conference – Bahrain GP
DRIVERS – Heikki KOVALAINEN (Caterham), Romain GROSJEAN (Lotus), Timo
GLOCK (Marussia), Lewis HAMILTON (McLaren), Nico ROSBERG (Mercedes), Felipe
MASSA (Ferrari)

bbc.co.uk: Vettel happy to change cars again

formula1.com: Nico Rosberg – Tyres the key to title

reuters.com: Bahrain GP – Game of brinksmanship over hunger strike

reuters.com: Protest rage as Bahrain GP starts

telegraph.co.uk: Bahrain Grand Prix 2012 – Two Force India workers fly home afet mechanics escape Molotov cocktail attack

independent.co.uk: Force India vow to race despite petrol bomb incident

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

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amaproracing.com: AMA ProRacing roars back at Road Atlanta this weekend

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On the Street

bikeexif.com: Interview with Miguel Galluzzi

thisis****horpe.co.uk: Outstanding handling really adds up
FWIW: BMW's new scooter

crash.net: Del Torchio – Audi will strengthen Ducati

asphaltandrubber.com: Audi bought 100% of Ducati's stock
Most stories had Audi picking up InvestIndustrial's portion leaving the rest in other hands. Today it appears it will become a totally owned subsidiary.
visordown.com: Conflicting reports over Audi – Ducati deal
-and-
online.wsj.com: Audi takes on BMW with North American plant and Ducati

i-CJPGnC4-S.jpg


cyrilhuzeblog.com: Three Crocker Motorcycles to headline Bonhams auction at Quail Lodge in August
-related-
motorcyclistonline.com: Quail motorcycle gathering announces new Quail Marketplace to display vintage and modern

motorcycle.com: Traction control explained.

dealernews.com: Does rider training cause more crashes? Insurance group is trying to find out

motorcycledaily.com: New Honda CRF250L designed for sale in the United States

Dominos Netherlands fleet of silent electric scooters presented a 'menace'. This has been solved [???] with a loudspeaker attached to the throttle.
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The Mothership

Exide Technologies new “official partner” of BMW Motorsport

Enjoy an exclusive tour of Munich in a historic BMW. From 22 April 2012 the BMW Museum again offers a limited number of city tours in vintage and classic BMWs...MORE



Cage World

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FWIW

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</object>


Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations – Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series – Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey…
Before a log trip…
Before winter…
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


Bike Candy

World Superbike in Junior TT format at Assen :smile

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Racing Update: Friday 20 April

SBK

Melandri fastest out of the box at Assen

bikesportnews.com: Melandri heads Checa in first practice

Assen - SUPERBIKE - Free*Practice

1.*Marco Melandri (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'37.582
2.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'37.711
3.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'37.781
4.*Michel Fabrizio (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'37.891
5.*Jonathan Rea (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'38.168
6.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'38.188
7.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'38.192
8.*Eugene Laverty (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'38.298
9.*Niccol?? Canepa (Red*Devils*Roma) Ducati 1098R 1'38.302
10.*Maxime Berger (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.482
11.*Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.503
12.*Leon Camier (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'38.543
13.*John Hopkins (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'38.633
14.*Jakub Smrz (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'38.647
15.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.686
16.*Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'38.781
17.*Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'38.928
18.*Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'39.299
19.*David Salom (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'39.388
20.*Mark Aitchison (Grillini*Progea*Superbike*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.966
21.*Chaz Davies (ParkinGO*MTC*Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'40.053
22.*Leandro Mercado (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'40.291
23.*Brett McCormick (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'40.643

Fast out of the box and on Sunday?

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Formula 1

Classification
Lap Times

Force India did not participate in the second Friday practice session. The team made the decision to have all of its team back in their hotel rooms before dark. Rumors flowed through the pits but the rest of the teams opted to participate.

aljazeera.com: Clashes ahead of F1 race

telegraph.co.uk: Force India to skip second practice for safety reasons
and from the bbc.co.uk

indpendent.co.uk: Security can't be guaranteed at Grand Prix says Yates of the Yard

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I will be back late this afternoon with a summary of SBK first qualifying and the news from Bahrain. Now I am off to a day long meeting with no laptops or cell phones allowed. Didn't know they existed for people like me in this wired world.
 
Racing Update: Friday, 20 April

SBK

Was BMW sandbagging during wet Friday Qualifying at Assen? All four Team BMW's provisionally advance to the Superpole after today's qualifying. Q2 will sort them out more.

The German team may have been sandbagging a bit. Team tyre management sent P1 leader Melandri and teammate Haslam on used tyres to do just enough to advance in the rain. They will have to defend and hopefully improve on Saturday. The Italian B squad finished ahead of the German A team but on new tyres. Atchison, the BMW independent, has work to do.

A decent bit of work for the day.

worldsbk.com: Guintoli from Sykes at a wet Assen

Assen - SUPERBIKE - Qualifying*1

1.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'37.600
2.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'37.630
3.*Leon Camier (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'38.468
4.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.665
5.*Jonathan Rea (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'38.873
6.*Michel Fabrizio (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.062
7.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.125

8.*Marco Melandri (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.127
9.*Maxime Berger (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'39.286
10.*Chaz Davies (ParkinGO*MTC*Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.362
11.*Eugene Laverty (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.485
12.*Jakub Smrz (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'39.605
13.*John Hopkins (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'39.625
14.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.770
15.*Brett McCormick (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'39.915
16.*David Salom (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'40.124
17.*Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'40.231
18.*Niccol?? Canepa (Red*Devils*Roma) Ducati 1098R 1'40.859
19.*Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'41.161
20.*Leandro Mercado (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'41.693
21.*Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'41.768
22.*Mark Aitchison (Grillini*Progea*Superbike*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.144
23.*Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'50.808

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Assen - Qualifying Practice 1
20.04.2012
Assen – Free Practice & Qualifying Practice 1.
Friday, 20th April 2012.


Weather conditions: Cloudy with rain in the afternoon.
Temperature: Air: 14 – 16 ??C, Track: 8 – 16 ??C
Number of riders participating: 23 from 13 teams
Fastest lap Free Practice: Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 1:37.582 min
Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing) 1:37.600 min


Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport had a positive start to the third round of the 2012 FIM Superbike World Championship at the “TT Circuit Assen” (NED). In the first free practice this morning, factory rider Marco Melandri (ITA) was fastest on his BMW S 1000 RR. His team-mate, Leon Haslam (GBR) finished the practice in sixth. Times from the first qualifying practice held this afternoon fell quite short due to rain showers. Only a few minutes after the start of the session it started to rain and all riders returned to the pits after having completed just a couple of laps. It continued to rain throughout the session so it was not possible to improve on lap times. Marco’s time was the eighth fastest, while Leon qualified a provisional 14th. Marco and Leon both did their laps on used tyres while many of their competitors went out on fresh rubber. If it also rains for tomorrow’s second qualifying session, both will have qualified for the Superpole. Marco and Leon used the rest of the session to put in some laps for testing settings and tyres for the wet.

BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet SBK Team rider Michel Fabrizio (ITA) finished the first qualifying practice in sixth in front of his team-mate Ayrton Badovini (ITA), who was seventh.


Marco Melandri:
Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:37.582 min (P1)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: 1:39.127 min (P8)
“Today’s conditions during the qualifying session were difficult. It was dry in the beginning, but we expected the rain to come very soon. We knew we had to get a good lap time right at the start. I went out with a used tyre, and the bike felt quite good straight away. As expected it started to rain after a few laps, and I am happy that we are safely qualified as of now. I went out in the rain to get a feel for the bike in wet conditions. It was the first time for me on the BMW in the rain, but I got more and more confident after a couple of laps. Overall, we have got good data for Saturday, no matter what conditions. I am looking forward to tomorrow. The team is very focused and working well *thanks to everybody.”

Leon Haslam:
Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:38.188 min (P6)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: 1:39.770 min (P14)
“These were the changing conditions that are normal for Assen. In the first qualifying, we went out on a hard tyre and only got one lap on it before it rained so I was quite lucky to be in the top 16. After that we rolled out on the wet tyres. It was the first time we used the new bike in the wet, so we gathered some important information. We did have a few issues; some things did not work, but I feel things are good and we know which way we need to head. I am looking forward to tomorrow. In Imola we were already close to the top and we made some more improvements at the test at Mugello this week. Hopefully we will have stable conditions and can progress further.”

Andrea Dosoli (Head of Race Operations):
“Overall this was a very positive day. All the hard work that the guys in the workshop and at the track have put in during the last few weeks seems to be paying off. The days following the races in Imola were busy – we tested a further day there before heading to Mugello for another test this week. It seems that the set-up solutions also work well here on this track. In the dry our riders were at the front. Of course, the set-up has not been perfect yet, but we are heading the right way. In the afternoon’s session both riders qualified provisionally for Superpole. In the wet we gathered important data as well. Leon unfortunately had a small crash this afternoon but this should not affect our programme for tomorrow. We are confident that we are in good shape for the weekend. The main target is to be ready under all conditions.”

BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA GOLDBET SBK TEAM - ASSEN – FRIDAY
20.04.2012

The*BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet Superbike Team*has completed its first day of practice and qualifying for World Superbike round 3 at Assen.*Michel Fabrizio*and*Ayrton Badovini*took fourth and seventh positions respectively at the end of Free Practice 1, while in the afternoon qualifying they finished sixth and seventh.

Both riders had a lot of track time in the 45 minutes of free practice, despite the cold track temperatures, thanks to fairly good weather conditions. Michel put in a total of 16 laps with a best time of 1'37.891 while Ayrton completed 17 laps and set a best lap of 1'38.192.

The arrival of the rain five minutes after the start of the qualifying session limited the amount the track-time available, and both riders only managed to complete three laps. Michel, thanks to his best lap of 1'39.062 ended the session sixth, while Ayrton finished 7th and set a personal best time of 1'39.125.
In the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup*Sylvain Barrier*and*Lorenzo Baroni*took first and a third position after the chequered flag of qualifying 1. The French rider had also topped the timesheet during the morning free practice, followed in the classification by his team-mate in second.

Serafino Foti,*BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet Superbike Team Manager,*said:
"It's been a fairly positive day. During the morning session we were able to do our job the way we wanted but unfortunately the afternoon rain spoilt our plans a bit. We're happy with the feedback we got even though we know there's still a lot to do on Sunday. We're also happy with the first and third positions for our Superstock 1000 riders Sylvain Barrier and Lorenzo Baroni."

Michel Fabrizio #84 - FP1 4th - QP1 - 6th:*"I'm quite happy. I feel comfortable with the bike and during the morning we had a lot of track-time, as well as collecting some good data. It's a bit of a shame about the afternoon rain; I will keep my fingers crossed for tomorrow!"

Ayrton Badovini #86* - FP1 7th - QP1 - 7th:*"It was important not to make any mistakes today - as we knew it was going to rain - so we had to get the best out of the few laps on the dry track during qualifying. I was comfortable with the bike and I enjoyed riding it."


worldsbk.com: Joan Lascorz – Friday, 20 April

WSS – Qualifying

worldsbk.com: BMW on top with Barrier


Formula 1 Practice 2:

Classifications
Lap Times

From the official FIA.com news site:

Friday Press Conference
TEAM REPRESENTATIVES – Bob FERNLEY (Force India), Stefano
DOMENICALI (Ferrari), Eric BOULLIER (Lotus), Martin WHITMARSH
(McLaren), Norbert HAUG (Mercedes), Christian HORNER (Red Bull)

Whitmarsh – wind direction critical

Consistency the key says Hamilton

From the official Formula1.com news site:

Rosberg still flying for Mercedes

Selected team and driver quotes

Other Sources:

reuters.com: Police and protesters face off as Bahrain GP begins
 
Last edited:
I love the track at Assen.
Had the opportunity to attend a Moto GP race there in the 80's

Still have my entry wrist band attached to my tool box !!
 
Saturday, 21 April

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Members with Birthdays Today

Wet weather continues at Assen.
Hacker protesters appear to have taken down the Formula 1 Live timing.
I will post Superpole and Qualifying results a bit later in the day.
Here is the Saturday post.

SBK

Friday leftovers :eat

bikesportnews.com: Haslam lucky to make top sixteen

bikesportnews.com: Biaggi facing fifth row start in Holland

superbike.co.uk: The BMWs looked strong on Friday at Assen

suzuki-racing.com: Camier 3rd in rain hit Assen qualifying

hondaproracing.com: Rain arrives on cue for Assen qualifying

motomatters.com: 2012 Assen World Superbike press release roundup

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Saturday Q2

Wet weather continues at Assen

worldsbk.com: Smrz quickest ÔÇô Guintoli remains at the top

Assen - SUPERBIKE - Qualifying*2

1.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'37.600
2.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'37.630
3.*Leon Camier (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'38.468
4.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.665
5.*Jonathan Rea (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'38.873
6.*Michel Fabrizio (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.062
7.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.125
8.*Marco Melandri (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.127
9.*Maxime Berger (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'39.286

10.*Chaz Davies (ParkinGO*MTC*Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.362
11.*Eugene Laverty (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.485
12.*Jakub Smrz (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'39.605
13.*John Hopkins (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'39.625
14.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.770
15.*Brett McCormick (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'39.915
16.*David Salom (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'40.124
17.*Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'40.231
18.*Niccol?? Canepa (Red*Devils*Roma) Ducati 1098R 1'40.859
19.*Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'41.161
20.*Leandro Mercado (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'41.693
21.*Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'41.768
22.*Mark Aitchison (Grillini*Progea*Superbike*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.144
23.*Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'50.808


WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com: Bautista ÔÇô Top five this season would be good


motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

Friday leftovers :eat

gazzetta.it: Montezemol's orders ÔÇ£Heads down FerrariÔÇØ

telegraph.co.uk: Bahrain GP 2012 ÔÇô City burns but Bernie Ecclestone insists the show must go on

bbc.co.uk: Crown prince supports race despite protesters

independent.co.uk: Robert Fisk ÔÇô This is politics not sport. If drivers can't see that they are the pits

dailyezpress.co.uk: Hackers threaten F1 teams

Satruday

Practice 3

formula1.com: Final practice ÔÇô Red Bull close in on Mercedes

Classifications
Lap Times

formula1.com: Mercedes 'double DRS' overview

formula1.com: Gearbox penalty for Maldonado [five grid places]

bbc.co.uk: Protesters shot dead in the street

Qualifying Bahrain GP

Formula 1 Live Timing was a big blank screen for me as hackers appear to have made good on their promise. bbc.co.uk Live Timing call was available.

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver
fia.com: 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship - Race Information & Event Starting Times for the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship


Other Racing

motorcycle-usa.com: AMA Pro Racing Road Atlanta ÔÇô Friday 2012

ultimatemotorcycling.com: KTM's Coma maintains Sealine lead

i-GvXrLSZ-L.jpg


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indycar.com: Video ÔÇô What is a torque sensor and what is its use?



On the Street

gpone.com: BMW ÔÇô Ducati will remain the same
The view from the paddock of DucAudi deal

visordown.com: BMW R1200GS tops first quarter [UK] sales

motorcyclenews.com: BMW maxi-scooters delayed

motoblog.it: Vyrus 986 M2 road version

motorradonline.de: BMW, Yamaha and Kawasaki power bikes test

clutchandchrome.com: Victory and Indian motorcycles see sunny roads ahead

dealernews.com: Accident scene management ÔÇô One of the best 'crash courses' a dealer can offer

motorcyclistonline.com: Spring riding | 'tween seasons | Street Savvy

motorcycledaily.com: Scooter share the next big thing?

asphaltandrubber.com: Motorcycle front wheel KERS ÔÇô Chip Yates patent

cyrilhuzblog.com: Fast motorcycle industry news

gulfnews.com: India's Royal Enfield is king of the road again

cycleworld.com: CW ÔÇô Evaluation: Veskimo personal cooling system

gpone.com: Roma Motorrad ÔÇô BMW record

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The Mothership

MINI at the Auto China Beijing 2012...MORE
ROLLS-ROYCE ACHIEVES IMPRESSIVE MIDDLE EAST SALES IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2012
...MORE

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Cage World

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FWIW

i-mMpctkW-M.jpg


i-KFxkctG-M.jpg


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Now the important stuff -

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Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Sedalia, MO 65301

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

Governor's Highway Safety Association. ghsa.orgHighway safety law charts

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

1224188747_KnFmX-Ti.jpg
Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Video: BMW Final Drive Disassembly

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Always know what speed you and your bike can handle and adjust that speed with your controls. http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: If the throttle cable becomes stuck, what is the appropriate action? http://t.co/nEBxt96T


Bike Candy

i-WS4hnxk-L.jpg
 
Racing Update: Saturday 21 April

SBK

worldsbk.com
Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) was over a second faster than any of his rivals in a Tissot-Superpole contest run under 'wet' conditions. The wet Superpole rules dictated that there were two sessions only, not the usual three, with the top eight riders only from Superpole 1 moving on to Superpole 2.

Despite being declared wet, the track surface during the second session in particular was almost completely dry, allowing Sykes to get to within less than half-a-second of the track best. This was his third Superpole win in succession this season.

Second fastest overall was the Honda of Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) from Jakub Smrz (Liberty Racing - Team Effenbert) and Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert - Liberty Ducati).

World Championship leader Carlos Checa (Althea Racing Ducati) was fifth fastest, from the first BMW rider, Michel Fabrizio (BMW Motorrad Team Italia Gold Bet) in sixth. Official BMW Motorrad Motorsport rider Leon Haslam was seventh, Crescent Fixi Suzuki rider John Hopkins placed eighth, with Hopkins now the last rider on the second row of the grid.

1.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.399
2.*Jonathan Rea (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'36.432
3.*Jakub Smrz (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'36.566
4.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'36.875
5.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'37.156
6.*Michel Fabrizio (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'37.311
7.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'37.592
8.*John Hopkins (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'37.913
9.*Marco Melandri (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'40.516
10.*David Salom (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'40.523
11.*Chaz Davies (ParkinGO*MTC*Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'40.627
12.*Leon Camier (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'40.681
13.*Brett McCormick (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'41.962
14.*Eugene Laverty (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.947
15.*Maxime Berger (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'44.022
16.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.500
17.*Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'40.231
18.*Niccol?? Canepa (Red*Devils*Roma) Ducati 1098R 1'40.859
19.*Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'41.161
20.*Leandro Mercado (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'41.693
21.*Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'41.768
22.*Mark Aitchison (Grillini*Progea*Superbike*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.144
23.*Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'50.808



Formula 1 Qualifying -

Lots of action on and off the track for 2012 Bahrain GP qualifying.

Protesters appear to have hacked the Formula 1 Live Timing feed. Here in Fly-Over-Land the screen came up live briefly then went blank and remained so until the session was ended when it came back up. In the daily post there is a link to the BBC.co.uk Live Timing commentary.

On the track things were exciting too.

Q1: The shocker in this session was Michael Schumacher getting knocked out. The Mercedes DRS system failed in his car putting him on the wrong side of the bubble when the session ended. The midfield times were very close. Without the aerodynamic aid he was not fast enough and will start in P17. Back in P24 Karthkeyan was just over two seconds fast enough to beat the 107% time so there will be a full grid for Sunday's race.

Q2: Not as much of a shocker was Massa failing to advance to Q3. He can not seem to turn around his fortunes.

Q3: Ten cars advance to Q3. In this session nine different teams had a car in the hunt. McLaren was the only team to advance both of their cars, but they were not at the top of the heap when the session started. Ferrari, Force India, Lotus, Sauber, Toro Rosso, Mercedes were represented along with the McLarens.

Hamilton looked set to take the pole when Vettel snatched it from him on his final flyer setting the front row of Sundays race. Webber and Button on row 2. Rosberg and Ricciardo on row 3, Grosjean and Perez on row 4 and row 5 Alonso and Di Resta.

Qualifying : 2012 Bahrain GP
Classifications
Lap Times
Maximum Speeds
Pit Stop Summary
Sector Times
Speed Trap

formula1.com: Vettel takes pole

formula1.com: Qualifying ÔÇô selected team and driver quotes
 
Racing Update:


Saturday leftovers :eat

BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA GOLDBET SBK TEAM - ASSEN – SATURDAY
21.04.2012
The*BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet Superbike Team*has completed the second day of the 2012 Assen World Superbike round during which the afternoon's Superpole defined the starting grid for the two Sunday races. Tomorrow*Michel Fabrizio*will start from sixth spot on the grid, second row, while*Ayrton Badovini*will move off from sixteenth position, fourth row.
The day started with the second qualifying session, which took place in the wet. Both Michel and Ayrton got on track and put in nine and 12 laps respectively to try out the set-up for the conditions, albeit they knew they could not better their lap-times set in the dry during yesterday's qualifying. The rider from Rome had a crash at turn nine, from which he escaped uninjured, during the 45 minute session. Michel ended the session twelfth with a best lap of 2'00.040, with Ayrton setting a lap-time of 1'58.284 and was seventh.
Thanks to the sixth and seventh positions obtained in Qualifying 1, both riders could take part in the Superpole in the wet format - comprising two sessions of 20 minutes each. Michel finished both mini-sessions in sixth place, earning sixth spot on the grid. Ayrton crashed in the early stages of Superpole 1 at "Haarbocht", the first turn after the finish straight. Fortunately he was uninjured and will start the race from sixteenth place on the grid.
In the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup*Sylvain Barrier*claimed pole position at the end of Qualifying 2, thanks to a best lap of 1'39.566.*Lorenzo Baroni*will also be on the first row as he set a 1'39.888 to take the third grid slot for tomorrow's race.
Serafino Foti,*BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet Superbike Team Manager, said:
"It hasn't been an easy day as the weather conditions of Assen - that have always been unpredictable but even more so today - force you to make quick changes to the whole bike set-up from one moment to another. The team did a fantastic job and was well prepared for the weather changes. A positive thing is that no matter if the track was wet or dry, we maintained a satisfactory level of performance. The riders have been good. It's not easy to keep the concentration going in those kind of situations. I'm sorry about Ayrton's crash. He's had a quite big one but fortunately he's fine".
Michel Fabrizio #84 - QP2 12th ( 2'00.040) - Superpole 6th (1'37.311)
"I'm quite happy with the second row. The result follows my consistency in free practice and qualifying. It's a shame we couldn’t get the best from the Superpole tyre. I wasn’t injured in this morning's crash and now we must focus on tomorrow hoping the weather will be good."
Ayrton Badovini #86 - QP2 7th (1'58.284) - Superpole 16th (1'44.500)
"Unfortunately the crash I had in Superpole has slightly compromised the work done so far, but I want to stay positive as we have improved and I still believe I can do well in the races. I'm sorry for the team."

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Assen – Superpole
21.04.2012
*

Language Version:
EN
DE
Assen – Qualifying Practice 2 & Superpole.
Saturday, 21st April 2012.
*
*
Weather conditions: Rain in the morning, rain showers in the afternoon.
Temperature: Air: 8 – 13 ??C, Track: 4 – 10 ??C
Number of riders participating: 23 from 13 teams
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing) 1:37.600 min
Fastest lap Superpole 2: Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) 1: 35.399 min
*
*Due to the unpredictable Dutch weather, today’s Superpole qualifying at Assen (NED) turned out to be a kind of lottery with Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport having mixed fortunes. Factory rider Leon Haslam (GBR) will start the third round of the 2012 FIM Superbike World Championship from seventh, on the second row, with his team mate Marco Melandri (ITA), who qualified ninth, on the third row on his BMW S 1000 RR.
*
Today’s deciding qualifying was held under the new “Wet Superpole” format that was introduced for this season. When a Superpole is declared wet by the race director, it is reduced to two individual sections, each of which lasts 20 minutes. The fastest eight riders from the first section progress to the second and final section. In today’s Superpole 1, conditions were changing throughout with slight rain in the beginning, a heavy shower halfway through and a dry track in the final minutes. In these tricky conditions, Leon was fourth quickest and qualified for Superpole 2, while Marco was ninth and only just missed out on the second section. BMW Motorrad Italia Goldbet SBK Team’s rider Michel Fabrizio (ITA) qualified sixth fastest today, while his team-mate Ayrton Badovini (ITA) will start from 16th on the grid.
*
*
Leon Haslam:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:39.770 min (P14) / Fastest lap FP: 1:38.813 min (P10) / Fastest lap Superpole 2: 1:37.592 min (P7)
“I felt quite happy with this morning. We were consistently one of the fastest guys out there. In dry conditions this weekend we have issues with the rear of the bike giving me some chatter. This is something we are working on hard, but as the conditions have been changing a lot it has been difficult to have a full session to properly resolve it. Given that, I am actually quite happy to be starting from the second row, but I am disappointed as well because I know that without the difficulty we could have challenged for the front row.”
*
Marco Melandri:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:39.127 min (P8) / Fastest lap FP: 1:37.802 min (P3) / Fastest lap Superpole 1: 1:40.516 min (P9)
“For sure I am disappointed with the qualifying result. In the dry we have good pace here but the first Superpole was very difficult. It was raining around the track, but not everywhere at the same time. I saw many riders crashing so even if it had been dry in the last few minutes, I was not confident enough to push. I think I made a mistake but it was definitely better than crashing. Now we will see what is possible tomorrow. It is not easy to pass on this track, but I feel okay for the race.”
*
Andrea Dosoli (Head of Race Operations):
“After what we had seen, both in the dry and wet sessions, we were obviously looking for some better results from Superpole. On the other hand, the conditions were really extreme, especially in Superpole 1 and overall the results are not too bad, as we qualified for the second and third rows. Although Marco will start from the third row, he is confident that he can have a good race and keep a good pace in both conditions. Leon is still looking for the best settings for this race track and it certainly did not help him that the weather conditions changed so often but we are confident that tomorrow both riders will be fighting for the top positions.”



World Super Stock 1000

BMW starts the race day with a win as Barrier wins again.

SBK

AND THE HITS KEEP COMING

Then Haslam topped the Sunday warmup session.

Assen - SUPERBIKE - Warm*Up

1.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'41.520
2.*Jonathan Rea (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'44.472
3.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.542
4.*Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'45.097
5.*Niccol?? Canepa (Red*Devils*Roma) Ducati 1098R 1'45.228
6.*Maxime Berger (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'45.723
7.*Marco Melandri (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'46.255
8.*Chaz Davies (ParkinGO*MTC*Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'46.512
9.*Brett McCormick (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'46.702
10.*Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda*World*Superbike*Team) Honda CBR1000RR 1'47.156
11.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'47.630
12.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert*Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'48.195
13.*John Hopkins (Crescent*Fixi*Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'49.722
14.*Michel Fabrizio (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 1'50.046
15.*David Salom (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'50.468
16.*Jakub Smrz (Liberty*Racing*Team*Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 1'50.850
17.*Leandro Mercado (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'51.962
18.*Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'52.875
19.*Mark Aitchison (Grillini*Progea*Superbike*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'55.062
20.*Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'55.212


RACE 1 Assen 2012

The race was suspended part way through. :blush Initially I reported these as the final results.

1 9 33 M. MELANDRI ITA BMW Motorrad Motorsport BMW S1000 RR 13 1'37.601 286,0 1'40.516 288,3 46 5

2 4 50 S. GUINTOLI FRA Team Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati 1098R 13 0.245 1'37.648 280,1 1'36.875 275,1 21 9

3 3 96 J. SMRZ CZE Liberty Racing Team Effenbert Ducati 1098R 13 0.507 1'37.573 277,9 1'36.566 270,9 30 7

4 7 91 L. HASLAM GBR BMW Motorrad Motorsport BMW S1000 RR 13 0.627 1'37.353 289,1 1'37.592 281,5 47 4

5 5 7 C. CHECA ESP Althea Racing Ducati 1098R 13 0.867 1'37.619 277,9 1'37.156 274,4 75 1

6 11 19 C. DAVIES GBR ParkinGO MTC Racing Aprilia RSV4 Factory 13 1.044 1'37.560 283,7 1'40.627 280,8 2 20

7 16 86 A. BADOVINI ITA BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet BMW S1000 RR 13 1.159 1'37.792 285,2 1'44.500 281,5 2 23

8 2 65 J. REA GBR Honda World Superbike Team Honda CBR1000RR 13 1.210 1'37.504 286,8 1'36.432 276,5 40 6

9 8 21 J. HOPKINS USA Crescent Fixi Suzuki Suzuki GSX-R1000 13 1.800 1'37.647 283,0 1'37.913 273,7 3 19

10 19 34 D. GIUGLIANO ITA Althea Racing Ducati 1098R 13 3.053 1'38.030 273,7 1'41.161 270,2 10 17

11 14 58 E. LAVERTY IRL Aprilia Racing Team Aprilia RSV4 Factory 13 3.461 1'37.601 286,0 1'43.947 280,8 29 8

12 6 84 M. FABRIZIO ITA BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet BMW S1000 RR 13 3.580 1'37.695 287,5 1'37.311 283,7 10 16

13 17 3 M. BIAGGI ITA Aprilia Racing Team Aprilia RSV4 Factory 13 6.471 1'37.621 289,1 1'40.231 280,8 71 2

14 18 59 N. CANEPA ITA Red Devils Roma Ducati 1098R 13 9.012 1'37.960 276,5 1'40.859 273,0 12 15

15 15 121 M. BERGER FRA Team Effenbert Liberty Racing Ducati 1098R 13 14.169 1'38.540 278,6 1'44.022 275,1 20 10

16 23 87 L. ZANETTI ITA PATA Racing Team Ducati 1098R 13 23.942 1'38.421 278,6 1'50.808 250,7 18 11

17 21 4 H. AOYAMA JPN Honda World Superbike Team Honda CBR1000RR 13 24.565 1'39.147 286,0 1'41.768 279,3 15 13

18 10 44 D. SALOM ESP Team Pedercini Kawasaki ZX-10R 13 25.614 1'39.320 279,3 1'40.523 273,7 2 22

19 20 36 L. MERCADO ARG Team Pedercini Kawasaki ZX-10R 13 26.591 1'39.437 276,5 1'41.693 270,9 2 21

20 12 2 L. CAMIER GBR Crescent Fixi Suzuki Suzuki GSX-R1000 12 1 Lap 1'37.934 277,9 1'40.681 273,7 12 14

21 22 18 M. AITCHISON AUS Grillini Progea Superbike Team BMW S1000 RR 9 4 Laps 1'40.301 279,3 1'43.144 271,6
--------------------------------------------------Not Classified--------------------------------------------------
RET 1 66 T. SYKES GBR Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX-10R 12 1 Lap 1'37.320 282,3 1'35.399 293,8 69 3
RET 13 68 B. MCCORMICK CAN Liberty Racing Team Effenbert Ducati 1098R 2 11 Laps 1'40.673 267,5 1'41.962 268,2


The final Race 1 results were not as great for BMW

Assen - SUPERBIKE - Race 1

1. Sylvain Guintoli (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing) Ducati 1098R 18'38.395
2. Davide Giugliano (Althea Racing) Ducati 1098R 18'41.028
3. Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) Ducati 1098R 18'41.426
4. Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 18'42.322
5. Eugene Laverty (Aprilia Racing Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 18'42.769
6. Michel Fabrizio (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 18'49.754
7. Jakub Smrz (Liberty Racing Team Effenbert) Ducati 1098R 19'04.807
8. Niccol?? Canepa (Red Devils Roma) Ducati 1098R 19'15.957
9. Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 19'28.291
10. Leandro Mercado (Team Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 19'47.242
11. Maxime Berger (Team Effenbert Liberty Racing) Ducati 1098R 19'50.155
12. Hiroshi Aoyama (Honda World Superbike Team) Honda CBR1000RR 19'52.383
13. David Salom (Team Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 20'05.414
14. Lorenzo Zanetti (PATA Racing Team) Ducati 1098R 19'33.081
15. Mark Aitchison (Grillini Progea Superbike Team) BMW S1000 RR 19'45.779
RT. Ayrton Badovini (BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet) BMW S1000 RR 12'40.295
RT. Chaz Davies (ParkinGO MTC Racing) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 6'43.300
RT. Leon Haslam (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 4'16.738
RT. John Hopkins (Crescent Fixi Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 2'26.685
RT. Leon Camier (Crescent Fixi Suzuki) Suzuki GSX-R1000 
RT. Jonathan Rea (Honda World Superbike Team) Honda CBR1000RR 
 
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