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Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

Saturday, 1 October - Update II ÔÇô WSBK/Magny Cours, MotoGP/Motegi

SBK

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fim-live.com: Rea wins his first pole

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Magny-Cours ÔÇô Qualifying Practice 2 & Superpole.
Saturday, 01 October 2011.

Weather conditions: Sunny.
Temperature: Air: 23 ÔÇô 27 ??C, Track: 28 ÔÇô 42 ??C
Number of riders participating: 18 from 12 teams
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: Marco Melandri (Yamaha WBK Team) 1:38.171 min
Fastest lap Superpole 3: Jonathan Rea (Castrol Honda) 1:37.490 min

Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport started with high hopes in todayÔÇÖs Superpole qualifying at Magny-Cours (FRA). In the previous practice and qualifying sessions, factory riders Leon Haslam (GBR) and Troy Corser (AUS) were close to the top on their BMW S 1000 RRs. But in the deciding Superpole qualifying both of them experienced some issues that prevented them from qualifying at the very front. Leon finished seventh and will start the penultimate round of the 2011 FIM Superbike World Championship from the second row. Troy qualified 12th and on the third row. Ayrton Badovini (ITA) from the BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team will start with his RR from 16th. His team mate Xavi Fores (ESP) qualified 17th.

Leon Haslam:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:38.483 min (P5) / Fastest lap FP: 1:39.344 min (P10) / Fastest lap Superpole 3: 1:38.382 min (P7)

ÔÇ£We had a few issues in Superpole, which made the bike quite difficult to ride. If we can sit down now and solve these issues before tomorrow then a podium finish is certainly what we are aiming to achieve. We have been strong so far this weekend and the times are good on race tyres, but we just need to make some small improvements then we will be in a good position for the races. Right now starting positions and lap times are not what I am thinking about because we know if everything falls into place then we can be right up there.ÔÇØ

Troy Corser:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:38.485 min (P6) / Fastest lap FP: 1:39.334 min (P9) / Fastest lap Superpole 2: 1:38.516 min (P12)

ÔÇ£It was a tough session. The qualifying tyres didnÔÇÖt really improve my time as I was able to do the same times on race tyres, and that cost us in the end. It is a little frustrating because in order to qualify well you need to be going faster on the softer tyres, otherwise you wonÔÇÖt be able to match the speed of the other guys who can. But on race tyres the bike is working really well and I am happy with the set-up, so let see what happens tomorrow. Around here you need to get away well and run with the leaders, otherwise it can become very difficult to make up the time. A lot will depend on the first lap tomorrow. We have been in the top five all weekend so we are optimistic.ÔÇØ

Rainer B?ñumel (Head of Race Operations):
ÔÇ£Leon did a good job. In Superpole 3 he did not have a qualifying tyre left. In view of this he did a good lap time. All the riders are very close and in Superpole 1 we had to send out both riders on qualifying tyres. Nearly everybody in the field did that, as one tenth of a second more or less means five places higher or lower. Troy unfortunately had some issues with his tyres in Superpole 2 that led to small mistakes. That is a shame, because otherwise he would also have made it to the next session.ÔÇØ

TroyCorser.com

Despite missing out on final Superpole today, Troy is feeling positive about tomorrowÔÇÖs 23-lap races in Magny-Cours. Although, he will have to start from the third row of the grid, he is happy with his bikeÔÇÖs handling and his pace on race rubber. Once again, TroyÔÇÖs problems in Superpole were to do with the bikeÔÇÖs performance on qualifying tyres. As it has been so many times, the bike doesnÔÇÖt seem to perform as well on the supersoft tyres and so Troy loses out in Superpole. TroyÔÇÖs team mate, Leon Haslam, also struggled, but just managed to get ahead of Troy on row two. Jonathan Rea (Honda) took Superpole this afternoon, with Eugene Laverty (Yamaha) second and series leader Carlos Checa (Ducati) third. Troy - 12th, 1:38.516 My grid position is not so good, but I am still pretty positive about tomorrow. I know that my pace on race rubber is good, so there is no reason why I cannot be competitive. I am really happy with the way the bikeÔÇÖs chassis is working and now that the bike is less physical to ride I can push harder without wearing myself out. The engine is still a bit too aggressive and the bike just wants to wheelie. Time spent in the air is time wasted, so itÔÇÖs important to try and get the bike to wheelie less. All year we have been trying to smooth out the engine power and we are still trying to find some good solutions. The sharpness of the engine is a characteristic that weÔÇÖre working on and trying to make the bike easier to control. I still feel that this bike has the potential to win a world championship. It may be that we will have to consider another electronics system, but thatÔÇÖs just one of the ideas we are thinking about. If I can make a couple of good starts tomorrow, I am positive that I can get some good results. See ya, Troy


BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA SUPERBIKE TEAM - MAGNY COURS ÔÇô SUPERPOLE
01.10.2011

In Magny-Cours Superpole, Ayrton Badovini, who took fourth in qualifying, could not repeat the lap times from the morning session and is set to start from the fourth row. Xavi Fores is constantly improving. First and second row for the Superstock riders: Lorenzo Zanetti put in the 4th fastest time followed by Sylvain Barrier with the 5th.

Emotions were high on the second day of testing at the Circuit de Nevers - Magny Cours for the BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team.

Ayrton Badovini put in a great performance in qualifying setting the fourth fastest time on a race tyre, but then failed to repeat his fast times in Superpole and will start tomorrow's race from the fourth row.
Ayrton said of his performance: "I'm not happy because we got a result in practice that we were unable to repeat in Superpole. For tomorrow I am more confident as today's pace promises a tough race as we are all very close. It has been my worst qualifying of the season. The races will be better."

Xavi Fores didn't qualify for Superpole but continues to improve every lap. In the second practice session he put in a time that saw him only a second behind the leader Carlos Checa.

In Superstock, Sylvain Barriercrashed at the beginning of qualifying yesterday. The team was able to rebuild the bike, allowing the Frenchman not only to set the fifth fastest time (second row) today but also to help Lorenzo Zanetti who was fourth quickest putting him on the front row.

Serafino Foti, sporting director of BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team at the end of the day of testing, said: "The Superpole went wrong because we failed to take advantage of the soft tyres. Ayrton was faster on the race tyre than the qualifying tyres. With race tyres we are not in bad shape and we will try to achieve as much as possible, knowing that starting from the fourth row penalises us a lot. Fores has missed the Superpole but had a good free practice session. He improves constantly and I think that he will have a good race tomorrow. In Superstock, Barrier crashed again unfortunately. It was a difficult qualifying session, but the guys were able to quickly patch up the bike and luckily Sylvain managed to make fifth. I am sure that without the problem he would have be better. Zanetti has improved a lot compared to yesterday and thanks to Sylvain giving him a tow. The race pace is good and both are sure to perform well in the race."

Superbike - Superpole: 1?? J. Rea (Honda) 1'37.490 - 2?? E. Laverty (Yamaha) + 0.110 - 3?? C. Checa (Ducati) + 0.442...16?? A. Badovini (BMW) - 17?? J. Fores (BMW)

Superstock - Qualifyng: 1?? D. Petrucci (Ducati) 1'41'335 - 2?? D. Giugliano (Ducati) + 0.037 - 3?? N. Canepa (Ducati) + 0.345 - 4?? L. Zanetti (BMW) + 0.355 - 5?? S. Barrier (BMW) + 0.493

hondaproracing.com: Rea takes pole in France

suzuki-racing.com: Fabrizio and Suzuki on 4th row

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MotoGP

motogp.com: Stoner leads again in Motegi warm up


Other Racing

fia.com: Rallye de France ÔÇô Day 2

reuters.com: Rally of France standings

In French
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Sunday, 2 October : MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan

Casey Stoner dominated the Motegi race weekend until Sunday. Dani Pedrosa takes the top spot on the podium with Jorge Lorenzo (+7.299) second and Stoner (+18.380) coming in third.

Rossi, Barbera, Bautista, Cudlin and Elias crashed and did not finish the race. Spies crashed but was able to rejoin the race and finished sixth. Simoncelli, Dovizioso and Crutchlow had to jump start their bikes during the race. Ride through penalties were given to each.

1 25 26 Dani PEDROSA SPA Repsol Honda Team HONDA 42'47.481 161.561
2 20 1 Jorge LORENZO SPA Yamaha Factory Racing YAMAHA 42'54.780 161.103 7.299
3 16 27 Casey STONER AUS Repsol Honda Team HONDA 43'05.861 160.413 18.380
4 13 58 Marco SIMONCELLI ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini HONDA 43'11.031 160.093 23.550
5 11 4 Andrea DOVIZIOSO ITA Repsol Honda Team HONDA 43'11.172 160.084 23.691
6 10 11 Ben SPIES USA Yamaha Factory Racing YAMAHA 43'25.085 159.229 37.604
7 9 69 Nicky HAYDEN USA Ducati Team DUCATI 43'26.648 159.134 39.167
8 8 5 Colin EDWARDS USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 YAMAHA 43'32.504 158.777 45.023
9 7 7 Hiroshi AOYAMA JPN San Carlo Honda Gresini HONDA 43'36.555 158.531 49.074
10 6 14 Randy DE PUNIET FRA Pramac Racing Team DUCATI 43'46.503 157.931 59.022
11 5 35 Cal CRUTCHLOW GBR Monster Yamaha Tech 3 YAMAHA 44'01.445 157.037 1'13.964
12 4 64 Kousuke AKIYOSHI JPN LCR Honda MotoGP HONDA 44'09.190 156.578 1'21.709
13 3 72 Shinichi ITO JPN Honda Racing Team HONDA 44'13.862 156.302 1'26.381

Not Classified
24 Toni ELIAS SPA LCR Honda MotoGP HONDA 30'50.565 158.773 7 laps
19 Alvaro BAUTISTA SPA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP SUZUKI 23'26.728 159.722 11 laps
6 Damian CUDLIN AUS Pramac Racing Team DUCATI 23'53.901 156.696 11 laps
8 Hector BARBERA SPA Mapfre Aspar Team MotoGP DUCATI 1'57.120 147.571 23 laps
46 Valentino ROSSI ITA Ducati Team DUCAT


Stoner continues to hold a 40 point lead over Lorenzo, the current champion and nearest rival.World Championship Classification after the Grand Prix of Japan


SBK

Sunday Warmup:

Just over a second separated P1 and P16 in the warmup session for the day of racing. Troy Corser was the rider in P1 until Carlos Checa clawed his way past on the last lap of the session.. Haslam and Badovini took turns next to him on the chart only to be supplanted by other riders.

Magny-Cours - SUPERBIKE - Warm*Up

1.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.764
2.*Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'38.886
3.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'38.919
4.*Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'38.992
5.*Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'39.061
6.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'39.173
7.*Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.197
8.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.231
9.*Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'39.287
10.*Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'39.293
11.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.405
12.*Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'39.495
13.*Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'39.615
14.*Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'39.626
15.*Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'39.868
16.*Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'39.886
17.*Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'40.003
18.*Roberto Rolfo (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'40.661

Great stuff but only the races count for points. Stay tuned.
 
Last edited:
Sunday, 2 October: Update II

SBK

A win and Championship for Checa, a P3 podium finish for Haslam, Melandri is official for BMW 2012 and there still is one race to go today!

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[http://www.worldsbk.com/en/news/5-news/9082-checa-the-champion-after-13th-race-win.html]worldsbk.com[/url]: Checa the champion after 13th race win

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Magny-Cours - SUPERBIKE - Race*1

1.*Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 38'16.465
2.*Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 38'18.666
3.*Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 38'19.683
4.*Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 38'20.261
5.*Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 38'22.067
6.*Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 38'26.099
7.*Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 38'26.279
8.*Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 38'27.852
9.*Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 38'33.608
10.*Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 38'40.988
11.*Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 38'50.997
12.*Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 39'36.207
13.*Roberto Rolfo (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 39'30.062
RT.*Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 16'55.986
RT.*Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 6'43.296
RT.*Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 6'43.693
RT.*Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 3'22.430
RT.*Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'38.643

BMW makes it official -

worldsbk.com: Melandri lines up alongside Haslam for BMW in 2012

Marco Melandri lines up alongside Leon Haslam for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in 2012
02.10.2011

Marco Melandri lines up alongside Leon Haslam for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in 2012.


Munich/Stephanskirchen, 2nd October 2011. BMW Motorrad Motorsport has confirmed its second rider for the 2012 FIM Superbike World Championship: alongside BritainÔÇÖs Leon Haslam (28), 29-year-old former MotoGP rider Marco Melandri (ITA) will ride the second BMW S 1000 RR for the team from Munich and Stephanskirchen.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Bernhard Gobmeier says: ÔÇ£We are really looking forward to working with Leon and Marco. I am convinced we will have arguably the strongest riderÔÇÖs line up in the Superbike World Championship field. We are delighted to have two riders who are both hungry and experienced for the coming season. That is the next important step for our team.ÔÇØ Gobmeier adds: ÔÇ£Marco has performed brilliantly this season, even during difficult periods. He impressed us in his first season in the championship, and we are pleased to be able to welcome him into our team.ÔÇØ


Profile: Marco Melandri

Date of birth:************************** 7th August 1982
Place of birth:************************* Ravenna (ITA)
Place of residence:**************** Ravenna (ITA)
Family status:************************* Engaged
Height:************************************ 1.66 m
Weight:*********************************** 60 kg
Hobbies:********************************* All kinds of motorsports, cycling, music**
Passion:********************************** Bikes
First bike:******************************** Malaguti Grizzly 50ccm
First race: ********************************1989, Mini-Bikes, Cattolica (ITA)
Career highlight:********************* 250ccm World Champion (2002), 2nd MotoGP (2005)
Superbike World Championship record: *** ***** 22 races, 12 podium finishes, 3 wins, 5 second and 4 third places, 1 pole position, 3 fastest race laps

Website:********************************* www.marcomelandri.it
 
Sunday, 2 October : Update - WSBK Race 2 and more

SBK

Sykes crashed on the opening lap and Fabrizio on the second. Atchison parked his Kawasaki on lap 3. By lap 4 the dust had setteled and Rea had the lead. By lap 7 he yielded it to Laverty. Checa would slowly fight his way back into contention. 13 laps into the race he advanced from midfield to P2. The next lap he would take the lead. Mean while once race leader Rea was out of the race on the same lap. Future teammates Melandri and Haslam worked their way through the field with the Italian having the better time of it taking P3 as Checa took P1 leaving Haslam in P5 trying to get past Camier and his Aprilia. He made it past with 4 laps remaining to catch up to battle Melandri for P3. The trouble is Melandri had taken advantage of the open track and had rabbited ahead in to try and catch the leaders. Haslam settled down in P4 for the rest of the run.

Magny-Cours - SUPERBIKE - Race*2

1. Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 38'17.851
2. Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 38'19.118
3. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 38'19.894
4. Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 38'24.357
5. Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 38'25.694
6. Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 38'26.211
7. Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 38'33.136
8. Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 38'33.400
9. Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 38'34.129
10. Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 38'40.847
11. Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 39'00.983
12. Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 39'05.697
RT. Roberto Rolfo (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 32'02.403
RT. Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 21'36.461
RT. Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 20'27.804
RT. Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 3'21.492
RT. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'39.136

fim-live.c0m: BMW sign Melandri for 2012

MotoGP

Official Video Podcast ÔÇô Japanese GP

bbc.co.uk: Dani Pedrosa claims dramatic MotoGP win in Japan

hondaproracing.com: Pedrosa celebrates home victory for Honda

motogp.com: Lorenzo delivers in action packed Japan GP

ducati.com: Ducati team has bad luck at Motegi, but shows promising signs

rizla-suzuki.co.uk: Bautista crashes out from fourth position in Motegi

gresiniracing.com: Sweet and sour Japanese GP for Simoncelli

teamtech3.fr: Edwards and Crutchlow take points in incident packted Motegi race

[urrl=http://www.teamaspar.net/2011/10/02/hector-barbera-crashes-heavily-at-motgei/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TeamAspar+%28TeamAspar.net+%7C+News%2C+Features+%26+Interviews+-+MotoGP%2C+Moto2%2C+250cc%2C+125cc%29]teamaspar.net[/url]: Hector Barbera crashes heavily at Motegi


Other Racing

After winning the driver and team championships:
BMW also secures the ALMS manufacturersÔÇÖ title at Petit Le Mans.


Munich/Atlanta, 1st October 2011. BMW has written another chapter in motorsport history in the USA at the finale of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), the 1000-mile Petit Le Mans, at Road Atlanta, in Braselton, Georgia. BMW Team RLL won a second consecutive manufacturersÔÇÖ championship in the GT class to complete a 2011 hat-trick of titles. The driversÔÇÖ and team championships had already been secured two weeks ago with one race still to go. The last time BMW achieved this feat was in 2001 with the BMW M3 GTR. BMW only returned to the ALMS with the BMW M3 GT in 2009.

After a thrilling race, Dirk Werner (DE), Bill Auberlen (US) and Augusto Farfus (BR) ultimately achieved a third place finish, completing 367 laps around the 2.54-mile circuit. After an incident with a slower car in the closing stages of the race caused two pit stops to repair the damage, their teammates Dirk M??ller (DE), Joey Hand (US) and Andy Priaulx (GB) finished the race in ninth place. At least one BMW M3 GT finished on the podium in every single race this season. Dirk M??ller and Joey Hand secured first place in the driversÔÇÖ championship, ahead of Oliver Gavin and Jan Magnussen (Corvette). Dirk Werner and Bill Auberlen (US) finished third overall. BMW Team RLL clinched victory in the team competition, ahead of Corvette Racing. In the ManufacturersÔÇÖ Championship, BMW finished ahead of Porsche.

With this strong result, the BMW drivers scored valuable points for two championships. The 1000 mile race at the roller coaster Road Atlanta circuit not only counts towards the American Le Mans Series, but also the 2011 Intercontinental Le Mans Cup.

ÔÇ£The entire team deserves a huge compliment. Everyone involved on both sides of the Atlantic have been justly rewarded for their tireless effortsÔÇØ, said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. ÔÇ£To celebrate this kind of success in one of the toughest racing series in the GT class is a fantastic result. Throughout the season, the key to this success was excellent drivers, a very low error rate, a team working in almost perfect harmony, our strong tire partner Dunlop ÔÇô and the BMW M3 GT, of course. Our engineers really raised the bar in GT racing with this car this year.ÔÇØ

Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW of North America, added: ÔÇ£Congratulations to everyone at BMW Team RLL. To achieve an excellent result like this with the BMW M3 GT in one of the most prestigious GT racing series in North America is simply fantastic. We can all be proud of this achievement. More BMW M cars are sold in the USA than anywhere else in the world, underlining the importance of this success.ÔÇØ

BMW also emerged victorious in the "Green X Challenge" category, which is all about using resources responsibly.

Bobby Rahal: ÔÇ£We came here to win the Manufacturers Championship for BMW and we did it. It was not an easy race. We had a number of tire punctures, an incident with a slower car in the dark, and so much traffic.* This kept us from the top of the podium, but we knew what we had to do to win the Manufacturers Championship and I am certainly pleased to bring the title to BMW for the second consecutive year. I am extremely grateful to all of the sponsors and partners that support BMW Team RLL.ÔÇØ

Dirk M??ller: ÔÇ£In the race, I had a moment of shock. I came into a blind apex in fourth gear and just avoided crashing into another car that was stopped on track. I just clipped the right side of my car and had to pit for repairs. Right now, I am just happy to be here in one piece. Nevertheless, we had a great season. I am very, very pleased that were able to secure the driverÔÇÖs championship at the last race. We can be very proud on our achievements.ÔÇØ

Joey Hand: ÔÇ£It is a great feeling racing here as the 2011 driverÔÇÖs champion. It was a great effort from everyone, BMW Motorsport, BMW Team RLL, Dunlop and Crowne Plaza. This championship was not just won by me and Dirk. It was won by the entire program over the course of three years. This BMW is the coolest and most comfortable racing car I have ever driven. I simply had the greatest year of my career.ÔÇØ

Andy Priaulx: ÔÇ£I raced at Sebring where this successful season began, so it was another great experience coming over here and be part of BMW Team RLL once more at the Petit Le Mans. The atmosphere here is as brilliant as the BMW M3 GT. Congratulations to Dirk and Joey for winning the driverÔÇÖs title and a big thank you to everybody in the team. I enjoyed the weekend very much.ÔÇØ

Dirk Werner: ÔÇ£It is a bit of a pity that we lost a second place finish, but weÔÇÖve been able to secure the manufacturerÔÇÖs title for BMW with a podium. It was a very tough race. As they did the entire season, the team helped us with great pit stops to gain positions in the race. The team did an absolutely fantastic job.ÔÇØ

Bill Auberlen: ÔÇ£Petit Le Mans is always very tough race. Dirk did an absolutely great job in the final stint to keep us on the podium. I am very proud to be part of this team and continue to add to BMWÔÇÖs trophy case. Congratulations to Dirk and Joey for winning the driverÔÇÖs title.ÔÇØ

Augusto Farfus: ÔÇ£It is always great to race in America. The event here at Road Atlanta is amazing. I would compare it to a small N??rburgring with regards to both the racetrack and the atmosphere. There are a lot of BMW fans. The spectators are very close to the circuit and we can see them waving and cheering. This season has been very successful for BMW, and I am proud that I was given another chance racing in the ALMS with such great teammates.ÔÇØ

This completes an extremely successful motorsport season in the USA for BMW. On September 17th, TELMEX Chip Ganassi Racing, with Felix Sabates drivers Scott Pruett and Memo Rojas behind the wheel of a BMW Riley, secured the driversÔÇÖ title in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sport Car Series at the EMCO Gears Classic in Lexington/Ohio. For the pair in the TELMEX Chip Ganassi Racing BMW number 01, this was the second consecutive title with BMW Power. Paul Dalla Lana of the Turner Motorsport team also had reason to be happy. He drove a BMW M3 to the driversÔÇÖ title in the 2011 Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Grand Sport Class ÔÇô also at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. The Turner Motorsport team can also celebrate the team title, while the championships also went to BMW for a second consecutive year in the engine and manufacturer competitions.

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Tuesday, 4 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

fim-live.com: Checa relishes 'great moment'

bikesportnews.com: Heat prevents Haslam podium double

ducati.com: Ducati win all 4 World Superbike and Superstock riders and manufacturer's titles

illawarramercury.com.au: Wollongong's Troy Corser splits with BMW

TroyCorser.com

The weekend that had started so positively for Troy ended in frustration and disappointment. Troy used the same bike and same set-up for both races, but the tyres that had worked well enough on Friday and Saturday behaved differently today and caused grip problems in both races. So, once again, Troy ended a raceday feeling that things should’ve gone better and wondering why they did not. Carlos Checa (Ducati) comfortably won both races and also took the 2011 World Superbike title. Marco Melandri (Yamaha) took second place in race one, with Leon Haslam (BMW) third. Melandri also took runner-up spot in race two, though this time it was his team mate Eugene Laverty in third. Troy - Race 1: 9th, Race 2: 9th It’s been another one of those Sundays and I feel disappointed and frustrated yet again. I was happy with the bike the past two days and honestly believed that I would get at least top five finishes today - and possibly a podium in things had gone well. Today I wasn’t the only one to suffer a lack of grip - Tom (Sykes) and Nori (Haga) obviously had some tyre issues - but it is frustrating when things have previously gone well. I used the same bike for both races today and the same set-up we found in practice and qualifying. The tyres were the same type and I felt confident because I had done seventeen laps on one yesterday and it had lasted pretty well. So we put the same type of tyre on the bike for race one and it started spinning up after just four or five laps and just got worse. When the grip goes, the bike becomes much harder to ride and I have to fight it more and more. The engine characteristic is such that, when grip goes, the bike is more difficult to control. I used the same bike and set-up for race two and the same type of tyre because none of us believed that we would have the same problems again. At the start it was not so bad, but the performance dropped off after 12 laps and then again towards the end of the race. Some other bikes seem able to manage their tyres better than us and I think that this is probably to due with our engine character and/or electronics. It’s something that we continue to work on and continue to try and find good solutions. It would be really good to have no problems in Portimao in the final round. I would like to have a good practice and qualifying and then really be able to attack in the races. It has been frustrating at times this season, so it would be good to have a round with no major problems and end the season on a positive note. See ya, Troy


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MotoGP

Motegi Post Race interview:
Dani Pedros
Jorge Lorenzo
Casey Stoner

motogp.com: Bridgestone reviews a drama-filled Japanese GP

gpone.com: Rossi - “I was in the wrong place

Formula 1

formula1.com: Japan preview quotes

Team Japan GP Previews:
ATT Williams
Lotus Renault GP
[url-http://www3.mercedes-gp.com/en/#/s/news/1033/suzuka-preview-ross-suzuka-is-a-track-which-should-be-more-suited-to-our-car-so-we-will-work-hard-to-have-a-stronger-weekend-here]Mercedes GP[/url]
Sauber F1 Team
McLaren
redbull.com

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

Other Racing

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8l6HfFMWFRY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/HC3t1EwRU7k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

On the Street

visordown.com: BMW G650GS Sertao revealed

motorcyclenews.com: first Triumph tiger 800 Supermoto

bizjournals.com: Harley-Davidson CEO aims to Wow

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-lYbvAGSm4k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

clutchandchrome.com: Politician and Abate argue motorcycle safety programs

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2GaYqJYhCB0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/e041FY7XtG8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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FWIW

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Cage World

Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

QOD: What is the first step in controlling your motorcycle? http://t.co/oNWvlxjh

TIP: When turning, use these four steps for better control: SLOW, LOOK, PRESS, ROLL. Learn more here, P.14 http://t.co/jLCSL9Kj


Bike Candy

Return of the Cafe Racers: Motorcycle sketch Moleskin

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14-M.jpg


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3-L.jpg


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What's in your sketch book?

:lurk
 
Tuesday, 4 October: Part II

The Mothership

The new BMW G 650 GS Sert?úo.

03.10.2011

BMW G 650 GS Sert?úo ÔÇô the sporty BMW single cylinder enduro for offroad and everyday.
With its new BMW G 650 GS Sert?úo, BMW Motorrad has added a new, sporting chapter to the history of single cylinders in the BMW GS family. Whereas the G 650 GS thrilled riders with its lean, wiry offroad stature, the G 650 GS Sert?úo promises even more sporting characteristics, even greater offroad capabilities, and an even stronger desire for adventure.

And all of this without any sacrifice to the established virtues of a BMW single cylinder endure such as everyday practicality, appealing price-performance ratio, and playful riding properties.

Chassis for greater offroad practicality, optimised touring properties, and dynamic design.

On the technical side, the new G 650 GS Sert?úo uses the established liquid cooled, high-torque single cylinder engine of the G 650 GS with two overhead camshafts, fuel injection, and double ignition. Its 652*cc displacement delivers 35*kW (48*hp) at 6500*rpm and a max torque of 60*Nm at 5000*rpm. Options include output reduction to 25*kW (34*hp) at 6500*rpm and 47*Nm torque at 4500*rpm.

Whereas the G 650 GS chassis was developed primarily for country roads and light offroad use, the Sert?úo presents far greater offroad practicality in the form of longer spring travels and tighter tuning. In addition, it is fitted with wire spoke wheels.

Also the new colour concept underscores the dynamic character of the single cylinder enduro.

The essential features of the new BMW G 650 GS Sert?úo at a glance:
High-torque and low-consumption single cylinder engine with 652*cc displacement. Max torque of 60*Nm at 5000*rpm and max output of 35*kW (48*hp) at 6500*rpm. Output reduction to 25*kW (34*hp) available.
Offroad chassis concept with long spring travels (front/rear 210*mm).
Wire spoke wheels with light alloy rims. Wheel sizes 21ÔÇ£ front and 17ÔÇ£ rear.
Dynamic colour concept in Aura White*/ Arroyo Blue with Sert?úo lettering and seat in black/grey.
Luggage carrier in black.
Extended top front wheel cover.
Two seat heights: 860*mm (standard) and 900*mm (special accessory).
High windscreen.
Hand protectors.
Engine guard of aluminium.
Disengageable BMW Motorrad ABS (option ex works).
Extensive range of special accessories.


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Wednesday, 5 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Pirelli notes from Magny Cours

hondaproracing.com: Castrol Honda determined to take positives from Magny Cours

bikesportnews.com: Checa to test Ducati's 2012 MotoGP bike?

motostation.com: Elias to Ducati?

MotoGP

fim-live.com: Simoncelli gets first taste of RC213V

Formula 1

mercedes-gp.com: Race preview ÔÇô accelerated development with Petronas

Ferrari say there was no malicious intent in the radio call from engineer Rob Smedley to Felipe Massa during the Singapore Grand Prix, in which he told the Brazilian to 'destroy' Lewis Hamilton's race. The team say the message was blown out of proportion and had nothing to do with the collision that took place between the drivers moment later.


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ferrari.com: Racing news no. 20

autosport.com: Deconstructing Formula 1 airboxes

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Other Racing

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From Yamaha-Racing: After a stellar season that saw Chaz Davies take seven podiums of which an impressive five race wins from the 11 races completed, the Welshman powered his Yamaha YZF-R6 to the chequered flag in Magny Cours, the penultimate round of the season, to prematurely claim the 2011 World Supersport Championship title.

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On the Street

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The forum has been wondering about Norton. The company keeps adding to its staff and is beginning to tout information about actual riders of their bikes and dealers. More important, at least to the socially awkward teenage biker inside many of us, the advertising department is going back to basics.

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The Mothership

BMW Canada achives best ever September.

BMW Group U.S. reports September 2011 [cage] sales

BMW executive joins the board of the Green Parking Council.
New York, NY  October 4, 2011 The BMW Group today announced that it will become a member of the Board of Advisors of the Green Parking Council. Joachim Hauser, Director BMW Group Mobility Services will also be joining the Board of Directors. The GPC is a national 501(c)(3) organization providing leadership and oversight for the green conversion of parking facilities to sustainable, environmentally responsible assets.

BMW tops the two million mark in the UK.
Two BMW 5 Series models book end 31 years of UK sales

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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ej4cQv-K0so" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

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Cage World

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

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Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


TIP: Remain in first gear while you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if you need to. More, P.12 http://t.co/jLCSL9Kj

QOD: Which of the following is true of convex mirrors? http://t.co/MvjEVYJa

Bike Candy

Moto Guzzi Stelvio custom by Officine Roaao Pueo via BikeEXIF

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Thursday, 6 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Two seconds give Marco Melandir a clear second

MotoGP

fim-live.com: Barbera returning to Spain for operation
Formula 1

fia.com: 2011 Japanese GP - Preview

formula1.com: Button signs new multi year deal with McLaren

Other Racing

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On the Street

ultimatemotorcycling.com: BMW K 1600 GTL ÔÇô quick look

The Mothership

bmw-motosport.com: History Index

Husqvarna & Salminen ÔÇô Enduro 1 World Champions

05.10.2011

Husqvarna *also wins manufacturers titles in E1 and E2. * Finnish enduro star Juha Salminen secures Enduro 1 world title at final EWC event of ÔÇÖ11 *on his TE250
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Innovation Days 2011 - Connected Drive ÔÇô added value through connectivity


FWIW

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Cage World

Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


Bike Candy

Some riders understand the importance of ankle protection when riding...

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...and others don't

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From BMW Cafe Blog
 
Friday, 7 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: New Champion explains how he did it.

worlsbk.com: Infront introduces new brand identity for FIM Superbike World Championship

MotoGP

superbikeplanet.com: Can Stoner catch Rossi?

crash.net: Full Moto3 technical rules announced

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motogp.com: Rossi broken finger sends Hayden to test the GP12

Formula 1

bbc.co.uk: Live Japanese Grand Prix practice [commentar]

formula1.com: Practice 1 ÔÇô McLaren leads the way as Vettel crashes

2011 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX
THURSDAY PRESS CONFERENCE TRANSCRIPT

06.10.2011
DRIVERS ÔÇô Jerome DÔÇÖAMBROSIO (Virgin), Jenson BUTTON (McLaren), Paul DI RESTA
(Force India), Kamui KOBAYASHI (Sauber), Heikki KOVALAINEN (Team Lotus), Sebastian
VETTEL (Red Bull)

formula1.com: Can Button delay the inevitable?
-after that post came this-
formula1.com: Vettel and Button play down title talk

Ferrari.com: Alonso ÔÇ£as focused as if we were fighting for the titleÔÇØ while Massa laments about his lack of luck this season.

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Other Racing

The promotion of a new race- F1 Red bull Speed Street India News Cut
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On the Street

indiatimes.com: BMW to launch under 1000cc bikes by January

webbikeworld.com: Schuberth SR1 helmet review

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The Mothership
More press releases building up to the Q3 report from BMW AG.

BMW Group UK reports a 12.2 percent increase in first nine months of 2011

BMW Brazil:
BMW MOTORRAD is AWARD-WINNING MOTORCYCLE of the YEAR EVENT in 2011
TOP
06.10.2011

During the ceremony of the 2011 motorcycle of the year award, held by the Duas Rodas Magazine yesterday, BMW Motorrad Brazil was winning two categories among the 4:0 pm that competed, taking the bike of the year trophies in Sports categories, and Naked.

The BMW S 1000 RR motorcycle of the year, elected in the Sports category in 2010, he continued leading the position No. 1 again, winning the award in the category. Naked bikes already had their scenes dominated by BMW F 800 R (CKD model), which managed to stand out in the face of strong competition and the judges of the contest.

The motorcycle of the year award is a competition held by the Duas Rodas magazine since 1998, in which readers choose the finalists who will go to the models runway to be tested by specialized industry that 8 journalists together have the pleasure and the difficult task of choosing the winning bike in style, comfort, maneuverability, motor, brakes and suspension. The tests are performed in the field of evidence of Piracicaba, known as ECPA.

With this award once again, BMW Motorrad Brazil is renowned for its excellent products and work in the country.

About the BMW Group
The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world, with its brands BMW, MINI, Husqvarna and Rolls-Royce. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production facilities and Assembly in 14 countries and has a global sales network present in more than 140 countries.

During the financial year 2010, the BMW Group sold 1.46 million cars and more than 110,000 motorcycles around the world. In 2010 the Group's revenue was EUR 60.5 billion, profit before taxes reached the value of 4.8 billion euros. In December 31, 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of about 95,500 employees

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term projects and socially responsible actions. The company therefore established an ecological and social sustainability along the entire value chain, a comprehensive responsibility with respect to its products and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an essential part of its strategy. As a result of their efforts, the BMW Group was classified as an industry leader in Dow Jones sustainability indexes for the past seven years.

FWIW

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Cage World

1969 Bertone BMW concept

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Screenshot2011-10-06at41253PM-S.png


Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: When riding in a group, pass other vehicles individually when safe. Not in pairs or groups. P.48 http://t.co/jfDAORhW

QOD: What type of protection should you add when wearing a three-quarter helmet? http://t.co/gkdzvJDY

Bike Candy

File under 'there's many a slip between cup and lip': On the showroom floor BMW comes across as, shall we say, conservative. Things appear to be a bit different during the concept phase.

From MOTOREPUBLIC via Otto Nero Cafe Racer

EnGBmW-M.jpg
 
Friday, 7 October : Formula 1 Japanese GP Practice Update

Formula 1

Japanese Grand Prix

Friday Practice Sessions
First Session Classifications
Second Session Classifications

Friday Press Conference
TEAM REPRESENTATIVES - Giorgio ASCANELLI (Toro Rosso), Pat FRY
(Ferrari), James KEY (Sauber), Paddy LOWE (McLaren), Adrian NEWEY (Red
Bull), Naoki TOKUNAGA (Renault)

formula1.com: Friday Analysis ÔÇô Red Bull playing the long game?

formula1.com: Vettel's practice crash a wake up call.

ferrari.com: Japanese GP ÔÇô expect the unexpected
lotusrenaultgp.com; Alan Permane - ÔÇ£Our belief of qualifying both through Q3 is very realistic.ÔÇØ
mercedes-gp.com: Michael - ÔÇ£I would guess we will find ourselves qualifying in the region we have been latelyÔÇØ
RedBull.com: Driver's reaction
ToroRosso: Hard work back home pays off in Japan.
 
Saturday, 8 October

happy-birthday-108-S.gif

Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Rough ride for Berger at home.

MotoGP

motogp.com: Barbera has successful surgery, but will miss the Australian GP

reuters.com: Cudlin to replace Barbera in Australia

bikesportnews.com: Dovizioso pens MotoGP deal with Tech3 Yamaha

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Ktm's Moto3 engine ready to race

yamaha-racing.com: Kenny Roberts

Formula 1

Formula1.com: Final practice ÔÇô Button makes it three for three

Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying

bbc.co.uk: Live qualifying

Q1
Rosberg's Mercedes-GP had technical problems and did not turn a time in for Q1. He will not make the 107% cut in qualifying. Based on past races the stewards will no doubt allow him to race based on his Practice times. The team reported unspecified technical difficulties with the car. Luzzi did not turn in a time with his HRT. Unlike Rosberg, it is doubtful the stewards will grant an appeal based on his practice times. No news on his problems.

Hamilton had a brief off road stint in the Spoon. He recovered and came in 4th for the first sessin.

Kobayashi and Sauber F1 set the crowd into a frenzy as he topped the charts for Q1 with a 1:32.626


Q2
Hamilton took top honors for the first round of hot laps. His 1:31.139 knocked more than as second and a half off his Q1 time. Vettel was in P2 followed by Button Webber Alonso Massa. Schumacher was where his expected to be: P7. Kobayashi had added 10 grid spots dropping from P1 to P11 when everyone headed to the pits before the final round of flying laps ÔÇô if needed and he did.

Perez was out of his car and did not advance to Q3 and will start in P17 as a result. The team reports hydraulic problems with the car.

Kobayashi finsihed his final flying lap after the flag dropped to end the session. He was in P7 when he crossed the line then Petrov and Senna in their LRGP machines pushed past him. As the team predicted both LRGP machines advance to Q3.

Q3
Ten cars compete for the front row of the Japanese GP. Hamilton has found the pace Button showed in P1,2,3 and appears to have the best chance of beating Vettel out for the pole.

Kobayashi was the first to take to the track. The Red Bull, McLaren and Ferraris are out next. Schumacher Sena and Petrov are still in the pit. They may opt not to set a time and reserve tyre choice for Sunday in the process.

Hamilton takes the first round of qualifying with 1:30.617 and heads back to the pits. He is followed by Button Vettel Webber and Massa. Alonso is on the track but has not turned a hot lap before heading to the pits. Kobayashi did not set a hot lap time breaking it off and dropping into the pits like Alonso.

Schumacher decides to head out to play with the kids from the top teams and heads out for the final flurry of laps. Kobayashi Sensa and Petrov remain in the pits. Finally the LRGP cars head out and drop Kobayashi's Sauber to P10.

While this was going on Vettel pulled out another pole leaving Button and Hamilton behind him. Massa pips Alonso for P4.

Provisional Grid:
1 Vettel
2 Button
3 Hamilton
4 Massa
5 Alonso
6 Webber
7 Schumacher
8 Senna
9 Petrov
10 Sutil
12 De Resta
13 Barrichello
14 Maldonado
15 Buemi
16 Alguersuari
17 Perez
18 Kovlainen
19 Trulli
20 D'Ambrosio
21 Glock
22 Ricciardo

Not posting a time
Rosberg
Luzzi

Vettel takes another pole and is setup to claim the title.

Look for updates latter today with all the F1 reports.

Other Racing

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On the Street

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visordown.com: Ridden ÔÇô BMW R1200GS Adventure

thekneeslider.com: Kawasaki supercharger patent drawings

dealernews.com: Zero Motorcycles to unveil 2012 models at EICMA

nortonmotorcycles.com: Stars at Darley Moor

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The Mothership

The new 6 Series Coupe

i-MKPqFs9-M.jpg



Rolls-Royce Motorcars opens a new showroom in Paris

i-9Bk75rj-L.jpg

hmm...been looking for a reason to go to Paris again.

FWIW

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Whale sited again: I was going through the Tottoti Motori blog to see if he had any part in building it. Roberto Totti is an excellent Italian custom builder has questions of his own about the whale.

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Cage World

thechicaneblog.com: But it sure doesn't taste like tomato juice!

41533172291baf345803o-XL.jpg


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ÔÇ£The Gallery Brummen in The Netherlands is a unique concept in the field of classic and sportcars and lifestyle. Over 350 Classics and sportcars! Under one roof you can find not only three floors with classic cars but also several shops, a lunchroom and Toymuseum Toy Gallery.ÔÇØ


Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Weighting the inside axle of the gyro (aka the foot peg) helps turn your bike into the corner

QOD: Which of the following is true of the motorcycleÔÇÖs front brake? http://t.co/p0LsogW5

QOD: When approaching an intersection as shown in the illustration above, what should you do? http://t.co/QNlJsScr


Bike Candy
This lovely Benneli Seis has been floating around the internet this week. From Bike EXIF and for sale at The Gallery Brummen

benelli-sei-M.jpg


benelli-sei-1-M.jpg


benelli-sei-3-M.jpg


benelli-sei-2-M.jpg


benelli-sei-4-M.jpg


benelli-sei-6-M.jpg


benelli-sei-5-M.jpg
 
Saturday, 8 October : Update – F1 Japanese GP

Formula 1

Post Qualifying Press Conference transcript for the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix
DRIVERS
1 - Sebastian VETTEL (Red Bull)
2 - Jenson BUTTON (McLaren)
3 - Lewis HAMILTON (McLaren)

Qualifying Classifications
Lap Times
Maximum Speeds
Sector Times
Trap Speeds

Several changes have been made to the starting grid since my post last night. Four cars which advnaced to Q3 did not set an official lap time in the session. Once stewards had gone through the minutia of the Formula 1 racing regulations the order for these cars was shuffled. Kamui Kobayashi – Sauber F1 – had been listed in P10 will not start the race in P7 with Michael Schumacher – Mercedes GP – next to him in P8. The Lotus Renaults will make up row 5.

Race regulation minutia setting starting grid order seems more than a bit pedantic and not in the spirit of racing on first blush. The fine details of who turned a wheel on the track, only came out to the pit or stayed in the garage is the price the sport and fans pay for teams finding a way to gain a possible advantage on the Sunday grid. By not turning a wheel these teams are preserving starting tyre choice for the race and adding to the strategic brew of the event. Keep in mind a train wreck in turn 1 could take out the leaders setting them up to take over. Lacking that carnage additions to the race strategy pot are key to presenters making the race exciting for fans in a sport that has drivers in cars that can not pass each other with out assistance.

The race stewards reports have not be posted on the FIA site to explain the makeup of row 12. The official starting grid lists both Nico Rosberg - Mercedes GP in P23 and Vitantonio Luzzi – HRT P24. Neither driver set a qualifying time in Q1 that was faster that the 107% requirement.

Rosberg suffered hydraulic problems that prevented him from completing a hot lap. In previous races race stewards have allowed teams and drivers in this situation to race on Sunday based on a posting time in any practice session that exceeded the 107% threshold. Rosbergs times in the three practice sessions show that he was on pace to fight with Kobayashi and Schumacher for P7 on the starting grid.
By granting the Mercedes GP appeal and allowing Rosberg to start the fans get another fast car on the grid to watch. Rosberg will charge through the field entertaining us all while making the sponsors and promoters money. A win-win or at least something as a fan I can rationalize and get behind.

Luzzi and HRT are another story. I like rooting for underdogs. HRT Car no 23 should fit in the underdog category. Yet, I don't get it.

Luzzi blew his engine and could not set a qualifying time in Q1 as a result. Fans would expect him to advance, as Rosberg did, based on a time during practice that was better than the 107% mark 91:39.109). Neither Luzzi, nor HRT test driver Karthikeyan (P1 pilot), were able to set a lap time better than 1:41.097 almost a full second off the 107% minimum time requirement to be on the grid.

There is the letter of the rules and the spirit of the rules. The letter of the rules is rigid and would keep a worthy competitor, in this case Rosberg and his Mercedes GP, out of the race if rigidly applied. The spirit of the rules was considered and he starts from the back of the grid. In the case of Luzzi and his HRT both the letter and spirit of the rules appear to be ignored. A clearly slow car is put on the grid. It is an obstacle for the other qualifying drivers to be blue flag around while remaining a potential danger to if it crashes or blows up on track. I don't understand. Unfortunately the stewards report, when and if it is posted, will shed little light on the subject. We can expect to read something along the lines: 'Stewards have granted the HRT appeal supported by the other teams on the grid and will allow Luzzi and the HRT car to start the Japanese GP in P24.'

formula1.com: Qualifying analysis

formula1.com: Selected team and driver quotes

bbc.co.uk: Doubts emerge of 2012 Bahrain Grand Prix
 
Sunday, 9 October : Update - Japanese GP Formula 1
Formula 1

The Japanese GP started without incident but not without controversy.

Pole winner Vettel won the race to turn one and beyond but in a 'very aggressive' fashion. In the race to turn one he edged out Button almost driving him onto the grass. In the process Hamilton took P2. Button complained and either on their own or as a result of the complaint the Stewards began to investigate the incident.

By the end of the first lap Vettel had a 1.3 second lead over P2 Hamilton and it would increase.

Massa was away ahead of teammate Alonso but under attack. Lap 6/53 Alonso passed to take P4. Massa was left to deal with Webber who was pressing too. At the same time the row 12 pair of Rosberg and Luzzi were having very different races. Rosberg had gained five positions being listed in P18 and charging while race officials were looking at replays of Luzzi spinning and rejoining in the Esses.

Race officials made a quick decision. During lap 7/53 they announced no action would be taken against Vetttel for the 'Button incident'.

Lap 9/53 Vettel was complaining about lack of rear grip and pitted for new tyres. Hamilton had a puncture and need to pick up new tyres. This started the first round of pit stops. Vettel would rejoin the race in P6 but quickly rise in the standings as other pitstops sorted out the field. With the top ten cars having taken their first pit stop by lap 12/53, Vettel would be in P1 trading fast laps with Button 2.5 seconds behind. By lap 15 Button still owned the race best lap but the gap to Vettel was not 2.5 seconds. The German may not have been running away from the field but he was squeezing precious tenths out of the field.

Lap 17/53 Button set a new fast lap dropping Vettel's lead to 2.4 seconds. Alonso was behind him followed by Hamilton, Massa, Webber, Schumacher, Petrov, Perez and Sutil in P10 to round out the points positions. Perez' teammate Kobayashi had a bad start and fell to the far side of mid field. While Button was setting a new fast lap he was engaged in a battle with Alguersuari and Maldinado for P13. He made it past Alguersuari while Maldinado dove into the pits.

Lap 20 Vettel head in for a fresh set of rubber and was almost too closely followed by Webber. Vettel exited the pit just in time for Webber to enter and pick up his set of tyers. Button was now in the lead followed by alonso Hamilton Massa with Vettel returning to the race in P5. Tyre wear is becoming the talk of the paddock. Vettel and Schumacher had blistering on their first set of tyres. They will be challenged to manage them for the rest of the race.

There are many ways to manage rubber. The Red Bull Team's method was a bit aggressive. Lap 21 Vettel set a new fast lap as he crossed the start finish line followed by Webber who did the same when he crossed.

Lap 22/53 Button set a fast lap in an effort to catch Massa the then current race leader and stay ahead of a charging Vettel just 0.9 seconds behind him. Massa would pit shortly yielding the lead to Button. He would return in P5 just ahead of Schumacher.

Vettel was setting Button up for a DRS pass when the Safety Car deployed. The first explanation was debris on the track from a clash between Massa and Hamilton. This set off a flurry of pit stops for P7 and beyond.

Stewards announced they would be investigating the Massa Hamilton incident.

The field behind the Safety Car was

1 Button
2 Vettel
3 Alonso
4 Webber
5 Massa
6 Hamilton
7 Schumacher
8 Petrov
9 Perez
10 Di Resta
11 Sutil
12 Rosberg
13 Kobayashi
14 Barrichello
15 Alguersuari
16 Senna
17 Kovalainen
18 Maldonado
19 Trulli
20 D'Ambrosio
21 Glock
22 Ricciardo
23 Liuzzi

Buemi was out of the race by this time.

Lap28/53 the Safety Car returned to the pits and Button bolted away and sets a new race fast lap. The stewards announced no action for the Hamilton incident.

Tyres had been a bugger for most teams but Perez P8, Petrov P10, Alguesuari P17 and Sena P19 were shown having made only one stop at this point to everyone else have taken 2. How will this play out for them was the question in my mind.

Lap 30/53 Senna has a runoff in turn 16 but survives the incident.

As lap 32 times were set Button was in P1 with a 2.8 second lead over Vettel in P2. Alonso was 2.0 seconds behind the German with Webber 1.3 seconds behind him.

Lap 33/53 with less than eight seconds covering the top six drivers Vettel pitted from P2 for a set of medium tyres and re-enters in P11. Webber followed him on lap 35. Vettel began picking off the competition by passing on the track and taking advantage of others pitting. This was good news for Button who was 3.8 seconds ahead of Alonso and 21.1 seconds ahead of Vettel when he pitted on lap 36. He rejoined in P3 ahead of Vettel.

Vettel was told to manage his tyres and finish the race on the current set. Using the new Red Bull tyre management strategy he set two fast laps in an effort to catch up Alonso ahead of him in P3 to get at Button in P2 behind Schumacher listed as the leader on lap 39/53. Shumacher had made only 2 stops at this point.

During all of this Perez ducked into the pits without notice for his second pit stop. He returned in P12 and quickly set a race fast lap to everyone's surprise. Within a couple laps he was in P10 and in the points just behind Kobayashi in P9. He would quickly pass his teammate.

Lap 2/53 Rosberg made his third pit stop from P8. He would return in P13. Row 12 roommate Liuzzi was motoring around the track in P23 two laps down and 8 seconds a lap off the pace of Button the race leader.

Button took the lead when Schumacher pitted form P1. He returned in P6 ahead of Massa and just behind Hamilton. On lap 44 he was 1.4 seconds behind Hamilton and closing. He was having a very good race.

Lap 45/ 53 Button leads +4.8 on Alonso and +6.1 on Vettel. Webber in P4 was 2.8 seconds behind his teammate but 9.9 seconds ahead of Hamilton.

Vettel was frustrated with back markers and showing it. ÔÇ£Replays show Vettel gesticulating in frustration...later...Vettel is slightly peaved by a tricky to pass back marker VirginÔÇØ was the call by F1.

Lap 48 Radio Red Bull tells their drivers to take it easy. They would be happy with P3 and 4 which would give Vettel the title. Vettel clearly heard the orders. Alonso and Vettel have narrowed the gap between P1 and P3 to 3.2 seconds and by lap 50 narrowed it further. The following lap sanity found its way into the Red Bull cockpits but Alonso was still pressuring Button and forcing him set new best sector times and a new best lap on 52/53.

Lap 53 begins with Button 1.1 seconds ahead of Alonso P2 and 2.0 seconds ahead of Vettel. They would finish in that order.

Button wins the Japanese GP.

Alonso takes the second rung of the podium.

Vettel takes the bottom rung of the Japanese GP podium but is the 2011 Formula 1 Champion and the youngest ever double champion.

The provisional top 10
1 Button
2 Alonso
3 Vettel
4 Webber
5 Hamilton
6 Schumacher
7 Massa
8 Perez
9 Petrov
10 Rosberg.

Vettel takes the championship.

Button will be happy with the win but no doubt will wonder what if...

Alonso has to feel good about how the season seems to be finishing.

Mercedes GP has to be very pleased. Schumacher finished in P6. He was reeling in Hamilton but lacked the time to finish the task. He was able to hold off a scrappy Massa. All in all a very good race for him. Rosberg started next to Liuzzi on row 12 and took P10, the last points position for the race, in a strong effort.

Liuzzi finished the race in P23 ahead of Buemi who DNFd, 3 laps down to Button the winner and a lap down to teammate Ricciardo in P22. Virgin drivers Glock and D'Ambrosio were just ahead but 2 laps down to the race winner. These four were the only drivers running at the end of the race that Button lapped. I like the idea of a 24 car grid but this is ridiculous and the springboard for another days rant.

Vettel brings home the title I predicted. Now on to an action packed race weekend next week. All three featured groups will be racing. F1 goes to Korea, MotoGP heads to Australia for their next race and WorldSBK finishes their season at Protimao.

I need to sleep. :wave
 
Tuesday, 11 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Portimao - Preview
10.10.2011
Portugal ÔÇô Portim?úo.
Preview.


14thÔÇô 16th October 2011
13 of 13 race weekends


Munich/Stephanskirchen, 10th October 2011. In the FIM Superbike World Championship, the final chequered flag of the 2011 season will be shown this coming weekend. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport will be in Portim?úo (POR) for the season finale from 14th to 16th October. The team from Munich and Stephanskirchen is hungry to follow on from the successful race weekend in Magny-Cours (FRA), where works rider Leon Haslam (GBR) claimed another podium finish and a fourth place. Furthermore, Leon and team-mate Troy Corser (AUS) scored a total of 43 points for the team in France ÔÇô more than ever before on a race weekend in the FIM Superbike World Championship.

Ahead of the finale of the 2011 season, Leon is currently fifth in the RidersÔÇÖ Championship on 216 points with Troy fifteenth on 85 points. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport already has 301 points to its name this season ÔÇô 100 points more than at the same point of last season. In the ConstructorsÔÇÖ Championship, for which only the manufacturerÔÇÖs best result in each race is taken into consideration, BMW lies in fourth place on 261 points.

After the final race weekend of the season, the Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport will remain in Portim?úo for a day of testing in preparation for next year. A further-developed version of the BMW S 1000 RR will be used for this test session.


Leon Haslam:
ÔÇ£We are looking forward to the season finale. The last few races we have been getting the most out of our RR, which gives me confidence. Sure, we still have some small issues, but we will work on them. It is the last round of the year and we are still pushing for the first win.

The track is very up and down, and there are a lot of gradients in the circuit. This is sometimes difficult, as the bike tends to wheelie on these parts of the track. As such, it is a challenge to find the right set-up for these characteristics. Last season I had two second places, so it is a circuit that I enjoy. The weather looks very good for the weekend, so we are optimistic that we can have another good race.ÔÇØ


Troy Corser:
ÔÇ£I like the Portim?úo track. It has lots of elevation changes and I think that the track will suit our RR, because it is quite fast and flowing. However, there are a few crests over the hills where these strong bikes could pull wheelies. This might be our biggest struggle this weekend.

I am really optimistic. To go fast in Portim?úo you need a bike that is steering well, and this is the case with our RR. It is an area that we improved with the chassis set-up and I was quite happy with the settings at Magny-Cours. We are aiming to find a similar set-up and the same feeling at Portim?úo. We will also try to improve the tyre life over the race distance. Then we should be well prepared.ÔÇØ


Bernhard Gobmeier, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director:
ÔÇ£We will travel to the Algarve with the momentum gained on Sunday in Magny-Cours, which was a successful day. We showed in France that we can have a significant say in the fight for the places on the podium. Our lap times were up there with the leaders. Obviously, we are now looking to convert this into top results again at the last weekend of the season. We are hoping for two more exciting races in Portugal, and that our RR is right up there in the leading group.

We have no time to catch our breath after the finale. As soon as the 2011 season is over, we will dive straight into preparations for next year. We are staying in Portim?úo to test our further-developed and, in many areas, optimised 2012 bike on Tuesday.ÔÇØ


Background:
Portim?úo is located in the south of Portugal, in the western Algarve, about 200 kilometres south of the capital Lisbon. With a population of 50,000, the city is a popular tourist destination thanks to its plentiful beaches, impressive cliffs and many leisure activities. Motorsport also found a new home here a few years ago. In October 2008, the ultra-modern ÔÇ£Aut??dromo Internacional do AlgarveÔÇØ was completed in the hilly countryside to the north of Portim?úo. It was officially opened on 2nd November 2008 ÔÇô with the season finale of the FIM Superbike World Championship.

Since then, the FIM Superbike World Championship has returned to Portim?úo every year, with this season marking the fourth occasion. This season, the circuit in the Algarve will host the season finale for the third time, having previously played this role in 2008 and 2009. In the meantime, Portim?úo has become a regular destination for many other motorcycle and automobile championships. Many teams and race series use the circuit for testing, due to its demanding layout. The racetrack is part of the ÔÇ£Algarve Motor ParkÔÇØ, which is also home to a modern karting track, a technology park, a racing driver school, and a five-star hotel.

The racetrack has a very unique character. It blends into the hilly landscape with a number of uphill and downhill sections, whilst also featuring changes in direction and gradient, a lot of long bends, and a winding infield. The teams are faced with the challenge of finding the right set-up for all these characteristics. In particular, the bike must lie perfectly when accelerating out of corners. The key to a good lap time is the final corner: here, it is important to take enough speed into the start-finish straight, which is almost a kilometre long.

British BMW factory rider Leon Haslam has good memories of Portugal: last year he stood on the podium as runner-up after both races in Portim?úo. His Australian team-mate Troy Corser also claimed a podium finish in 2008, when the FIM Superbike World Championship made its debut in the Algarve.

kawasaki-racingteam.eu: Portimao the final pit stop on the 2011 campaign trail

worldsbk.com: KTM move forward in Superbike development

MotoGP

motogp.com: Phillip Island set for arrival of home hero Stoner

motogp.com: Stoner can clinch MotoGP title at home race

MotoGP Videos
MotoGP Rewind: Motegi
After the Flag from Motegi

bbc.co.uk: Andrea Dovizioso signs contract to partner Cal Crutchlow in 2012

Formula 1

What if? bmw-motorsport.com: BMW congratulates world champion Sebastian Vettel

formula1.com: Japan analysis ÔÇô played to perfection

formula1.com: Unassailable, unstoppable, unbeatable ÔÇô Vettel's historic double

formula1.com: Koreaa preview quotes ÔÇô Mercedes & Sauber on Yeongam

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Other Racing

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On the Street

thekneeslider.com: Ducati 1199 panigale Superquadro engine ÔÇô over square design and huge power

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nytimes.com: A design that lets two wheels act as one

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The Mothership

BMW Group achives record sales for September

BMW Motorrad continued its growth path and with sales of 8,612 motorcycles (prev. yr. 8,066 / +6.8%) also reported a record September in worldwide sales. From January to September sales increased by 6.6% to 86,892 motorcycles (prev. yr. 81,508). BMW Motorrad clearly performed well in the challenging market environment for > 500 cm3. For the whole year, BMW Motorrad is aiming for a new sales record.
Husqvarna Motorcycles delivered 6,080 motorcycles in the first nine months of 2011 (prev. yr. 7,260 /-16.3%). September accounted for 1,351 deliveries (prev. yr. 1,282 /+5.4%).



FWIW

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Cage World

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZmXtqyowWA0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

img271-602x402-S.jpg


Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

NHTSA Campaign ID no 11V491000
Dated: OCT 03, 2011 GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CORVETTE COUPE VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 24, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREME...


[url=http://www.sportrider.com/motorcycle_riding/techniques/index.html]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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


Tire blowout? Hold handlebars firmly and itÔÇÖs best NOT to brake ÔÇô hereÔÇÖs what else you need to know. P.44 http://t.co/jfDAORhW

QOD: If you must swerve to avoid a crash, what should you do? http://t.co/9lbqLMXW



Bike Candy

cb550-5-M.jpg


cb550-M.jpg


cb550-2-M.jpg


cb550-1-M.jpg


cb550-3-M.jpg
 
Wednesday, 12 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Algarve circuit host season finale

motomatters.com: Eugene Laverty rejects BMW for Aprilia
Where will Camier go? Will he land at BMW Italia. That would be an interesting twist.

MotoGP

MotoGP Video: Will Stoner take the title at the Island/

motogp.com: Doohan believes Stoner has the mental edge on Rossi

ducati.com: Back to back fly-aways in Australia and Malaysia for Ducati Team

gresiniracing.com: Super Simoncelli charged for Phillip Island

teamaspar.net: Barbera replacement Cudlin hopes for ÔÇ£confident start' art Phillip Island

motomatters.com: MotoGP silly season ÔÇô are we facing another small grid

Formula 1

formula1.com: Track evolution ÔÇô the change from green to mean

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Other Racing

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On the Street

sportrider.com: Advanced traction control

webbikeworld.com: RK GXW Series ÔÇô 20,000 mile motorcycle chain


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BMW Riders would never do this...rofl...HP2 Enduro burn Rodeo Erzberg
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SXXqXc-LDFk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


The Mothership

Munich. The new BMW 3 Series Sedan celebrates its world premiere on October 14th 2011 at the BMW plant in Munich. The unveiling will be broadcast by livestream on Facebook via the link http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup?sk=app_251023654929514 from 4.00 pm. Press material on the world premiere will be available in the Pressclub from 5.15 pm.


FWIW

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Cage World

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Oldest car auctioned for $4.6 million

Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


TIP: Clothes that are just right when you leave in the morning might be too hot after riding for a few hours. Better to dress in layers

QOD: What is a way to remember the pre-ride inspection steps? http://t.co/cVS3wDBx


Bike Candy

I was all set to post a BMW R75/5 from BikeEXIF until I saw this BMW R100RS over on Cafe Racer Culture

HPIM3184-M.jpg


HPIM3181-M.jpg


HPIM3189-M.jpg


HPIM3191-M.jpg


Bing translates their description -


Bmw r100rs aluminium polished mirror-1982: the bike has been completely disassembled and repainted frame, simplified electrical system, rear Lighthouse style round 70, tommaselli handlebars, handlebars aluminum rocker arms, footrest fast motorcycles, ammortizzatiri aluminium-made discharges and gazi, welded hand using part of the original, Pintail aluminio beaten and welded by hand polished to a saddle-stitched leather, hand-built aluminum tank always beaten and soldered by hand and polished to a replica of the famous tank norton manx tables port number most aluminium construction of several more details not available on the market and handmade pieces arrows mini blinker
 
Thursday, 13 October

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Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Rainer B?ñumel switches to BMW Motorrad Development.
12.10.2011

Rainer B?ñumel switches to BMW Motorrad Development.


Munich/Stephanskirchen, 12th October 2011. Change in personnel at BMW Motorrad Motorsport: Rainer B?ñumel (45), Head of Race Operations, will leave the factory team at the end of the 2011 season, to take on the role of Project Manager on a new vehicle project at BMW Motorrad. The man from Landshut played a crucial role in the entry of BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the Superbike World Championship, and was involved in the sporting development of the team in various roles. B?ñumelÔÇÖs successor as Head of Race Operations will be announced at a later date.

Hendrik von Kuenheim, General Director BMW Motorrad, says: ÔÇ£Over the past four years, Rainer B?ñumel played a crucial part in setting up and developing BMW MotorradÔÇÖs Superbike project. As Project Manager, Technical Director and Head of Race Operations, he poured his heart and soul into the subject and was influential in defining the character and sporting development of BMW Motorrad in the World Championship. I would like to thank him for this, on behalf of BMW Motorrad. Within the framework of our product offensive, we must redeploy some of the capacity existing within the company. This also applies to motorsport. From mid-October, Rainer B?ñumel will take on the role of Project Manager within a new vehicle project at BMW Motorrad.ÔÇØ

B?ñumel says: ÔÇ£The last few years were a very formative time for me. When you work so closely and intensely together in competitive racing, the team becomes like a second family. For that reason, it will not be easy to bid farewell. On the other hand, I am very much looking forward to the new challenge in BMW Motorrad Development and will, of course, continue to keep my fingers crossed for the team.ÔÇØ

BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Bernhard Gobmeier adds: ÔÇ£Rainer B?ñumelÔÇÖs departure is without doubt a loss for the team. We wish Rainer all the best in his exciting, new role. We will now sound the market and appoint an adequate and experienced successor as soon as possible.ÔÇØ

Rainer B?ñumel studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Applied Sciences in Landshut between 1986 and 1991. From 1994 to 1997 he was employed as Test and Technology Editor at the specialist magazine ÔÇ£MotorradÔÇØ, before moving to BMW Motorrad as an engineer working in the field of advanced chassis development in 1997. Between 2000 and 2007 he was Project Manager of the Boxer series. In 2007 he moved into motorsport with the Endurance project with the BMW HP2 Sport. In 2008 Rainer B?ñumel took over the project management and technical management of Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the Superbike World Championship, before stepping into the role of Head of Race Operations in 2011.

FWIW: I am not certain what to think of this.

worldsbk.comDucati Roma Team to make WSB debut in 2012

MotoGP

motogp.com: KTM signals Moto3 entry with an exclusive motor

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Stoner analyzes Phillip Island

Formula 1

fia.com: Korean GP Preview

formula1.com: Sahara Grou becomes co-owner of Force India
-related-
bbc.co.uk: Sahara Group invests $100 m in Force India Formula 1

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Other Racing

On the Street

motorcyclenews.com: Kawasaki refuses to deny new Versys 1000 adventure bike

cyrilhuzblog.com: Royal Enfield sets new sales record in 2011

fim-live.com: ACEM and FIM pledge to strengthen co-operation

motorcyclistonline.com: 2012 Yamaha YZF-R1 | First Look

utlitmatemotorcycling.com: 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Quick look

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The Mothership

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


FWIW

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Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: If you ride often at night consider adding auxiliary driving lights, wired into the high-beam circuit. Check that they meet state law

QOD: To spot approaching traffic as soon as possible while in a curve, what should you do? http://t.co/D9xA7Cy1


Bike Candy

vintag8negro3-L.jpg
 
Friday, 14 October

happy-birthday-108-S.gif

Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

foxsports.com.au: Karl muggeridge and Josh Waters called up for final WSBK round as Chris Vermeulen drops ut

worldsbk.com: 2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar ÔÇô The final edition???
Mille Motorsport Park will be Memorial weekend and run on an odd schedule.

speedweek.de: Portimao ÔÇô everything worth knowing
FWIW: I guess I can stop posting once you have read this

Rumor: http://translate.google.com/transla...=en&langpair=auto|en&tbb=1&ie=utf-8]gpone.com ÔÇô Fabirzio expects BMW
-or could it be-
gpone.com: Ducati at risk of losing Checa
FWIW: We will have an answer by Sunday. Who ever it turns out to be he must be ready for Monday's test session.

speedtv.com: Haslam looks ahead to 2012


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MotoGP

sydneymorningheral.com.au: Stoner quickest is Aust MotoGP practice

For the first time this season the 2011 MotoGP crown could be settled this weekend, if current leader Casey Stoner scores ten points or more than defending World Champion Jorge Lorenzo.

motogp.com: Fast start for Stoner in Australia

Predictions ÔÇô bbc.co.uk: Mick Doohan believes Casey Stoner will have to wait for MotoGP title

teamtech3.fr: Edwards and Crutchlow fired up for Phillips Island

Formula 1

fia.com: Thursday Press Conference
DRIVERS - Jaime ALGUERSUARI (Toro Rosso), Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari), Lewis
HAMILTON (McLaren), Pastor MALDONADO (Williams), Sergio P?ëREZ (Sauber), Sebastian
VETTEL (Red Bull)

P1 Classifications: Schumacher, Vettel and Di Resta top the field in Korean GP first session

bbc.co.uk: Live Korean GP practice commentary

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Other Racing

BMW Group: Another successful DTM test for BMW Motorsport in Lausitz

On the Street

motorcyclenews.com: Editors picks ÔÇô BMW R1100S
The BMW R1100S is now beginning to hold the timeless appeal of a modern classic, with classy sports-touring styling, VFR-like comfort and versatility plus typical BMW quality and residuals making for an attractive all-rounder. The plush ride delivered by the...


visordown.com: Caught speeding with no bike?

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Motorcycle eye protection -tips

thekneeslider.com: US Highland gets funding and new executive management then sponsors UFC fight?

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

The Mothership

BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles press conferences at the EICMA 2011
Munich. For the first time, the two motorcycle brands of the BMW Group will be appearing under one roof at this year's EICMA 69th Salone Internationale del Motociclo, 10th ÔÇô 13th November. Models of both brands will have their world premieres in Hall 14 of the Milan trade fair centre


FWIW

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Cage World

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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ghW7Y7N4Fvc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


TIP: Insulated riding suits offer a good alternative in cold weather, and are especially popular with commuter riders. http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: What is the best way to enter a highway when riding in a group? http://t.co/gRxTjgf0


Bike Candy

From BikeEXIF a beautiful bike by Kosman Specialties

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October 14 Friday : Update - SBK/MotoGP/F1

SBK

worldsbk.com: Rea ahead of Checa in FP 1

Q1 Results

Checa takes the provisional pole in the closing laps of Q1.

Badovini drops from his FP1 third to 11th on the provisional grid. Haslam 13th and Corser 15th do enough to advance to the Superpole round. Corser should be safe but that is a question to be answered in Saturday's Q2.

Portimao - SUPERBIKE - Qualifying*1

1. Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.579
2. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'43.666
3. Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.860
4. Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'43.895
5. Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.907
6. Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.030
7. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.111
8. Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'44.112
9. Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'44.144
10. Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'44.201
11. Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.278
12. Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.410
13. Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.426
14. Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'44.598
15. Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.631
16. Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'44.715
17. Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'45.243
18. Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'45.454
19. Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'46.076
20. Karl Muggeridge (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'46.116
21. Joshua Waters (Yoshimura*Suzuki*Racing*Team) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'46.526
22. Santiago Barragan (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'46.967


MotoGP

Classsifications – Free Practice 2 Australian MotoGP

motogp.com: Stoner leads the pack down under

bbc.co.uk: Stoner boosts championship hopes



Formula 1

Friday P2 classifications: McLaren duo -Hamilton/Button – dominate wet session

fia.com: Friday Press Conference – Korean GP

formula1.com: Selected team and driver quotes

formula1.com: Friday analysis
 
Saturday, 15 October

happy-birthday-108-S.gif

Members with Birthdays Today

SBK

worldsbk.com: Checa rules the roost in Superbike Friday qualifying

hondaproracing.com: Rea on pace in Portugal

suzuki-racing.com: Fabrizio looking to improve in Portugal

Note: Silly season rumors will get old and moldy very quickly this weekend. What you read in this post could be last year's news/rumors. Stay tuned

gpone.com: Superbike ÔÇô who is going where?

bikesportnews.com: Portimao WSBK ÔÇô Friday news, gossip and rumors

crash.net: Eugene Laverty no contract yet


BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Portimao - Qualifying Practice 1
14.10.2011
*
Portim?úo ÔÇô Free Practice & Qualifying Practice 1.
Friday, 14th October 2011.



Weather conditions: Sunny.
Temperature: Air: 30 ÔÇô 31 ??C, Track: 40 ÔÇô 44 ??C
Number of riders participating: 22 from 13 teams
Fastest lap Free Practice: Jonathan Rea (Castrol Honda) 1:43.945 min
Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:43.579 min


Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport had a difficult start to the final round of the 2011 FIM Superbike World Championship at Portim?úo (POR). Factory riders, Leon Haslam (GBR) and Troy Corser (AUS), finished the first Qualifying Practice in 13th and 15th respectively. The team is confident that both riders can improve their positions tomorrow. Ayrton Badovini (ITA) and Xavier Fores (ESP), from the BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team, finished in 11th and 19th respectively.

Leon Haslam:
Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:45.150 min (P14)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: 1:44.426 min (P13)
ÔÇ£It was a difficult Friday. We experienced issues that we have already had a few times this season. It worsened when the temperatures rose in the afternoon, but we have an idea how we can solve this. We know in which direction we have to work tomorrow.ÔÇØ

Troy Corser:
Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:45.094 min (P12)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: 1:44.631 min (P15)
ÔÇ£It has been a tough day for us. We have worked hard to find a set-up that suits the characteristics of this track, but at the minute we still have some issues. The track has a lot more bumps than when we last rode here, and that has made it extremely difficult to find a good feeling on the bike. However, the conditions are the same for everyone, we just need to work hard in the sessions tomorrow to refine the set-up and then we will see what is possible. We all have to remain optimistic and work hard to put ourselves in a good position come Superpole.ÔÇØ

Rainer B?ñumel (Head of Race Operations):
ÔÇ£It was a difficult start to the weekend. This track is a little bit like a rollercoaster, and we are still working on finding the best set-up for these very special characteristics in order to make the bike easier to ride. In the afternoon, when it was hotter, we also had some issues with the grip. But I am sure tomorrow morning we can climb up the time sheets.ÔÇØ


TroyCorser.com

Troy endured a tough day in first practice and qualifying in Portimao, ending 15th fastest. Some previous problems resurfaced and because the track is more bumpy than last year, Troy found his bike a bit of a handful in both todayÔÇÖs sessions. If the team can make some changes to get the bike to ride the bumps more smoothly, Troy is confident that he can improve his lap times and get further up the grid. Newly crowned Champion Carlos Checa (Ducati) topped the standings today, with a lap of 1:43.579. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha) finished second quickest, ahead of Sylvain Guintoli (Ducati) and Jonathan Rea (Honda). Troy - 15th, 1:44.631 After the last few races, I felt pretty happy coming into this weekend, but things didnÔÇÖt turn out the way we expected. The bike was very physical to ride and it was a bit of a handful round here - especially as there are more bumps on the track than last year. Our bike has always been a bit of a handful on bumpy tracks and I tend to think that itÔÇÖs more to do with the engine characteristics than suspension. After all, we tried many different set-ups and changed the suspension quite a bit today, but still had the same problems. Imola and Magny had some bumps, but both tracks were relatively smooth compared to this one and thatÔÇÖs probably why these problems have shown up. LeonÔÇÖs comments today were exactly the same as me, as you can tell as heÔÇÖs only two places ahead of me. At the moment, weÔÇÖre struggling a bit to understand exactly whatÔÇÖs going on and what changes to make, but IÔÇÖm sure the mechanics are pouring over the telemetry and will come up for some ideas for me and Leon to try tomorrow. See ya, Troy



BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA SUPERBIKE TEAM - PORTIMAO - PRACTICE DAY 1
14.10.2011

A Portimao, ultima prova del Campionato Mondiale Superbike 2011,* Ayrton Badovini*coglie un buon risultato nella prima giornata di prove.* Javier Fores *continua a migliorare. I piloti della* Superstock*Barrier e Zanetti, rispettivamente 5?? e 11??, dovranno migliorare nella seconda giornata.

Ayrton Badovini*nelle prove libere della mattina aveva stabilito il terzo tempo a tre decimi da Rea. Nelle qualifiche del pomeriggio, migliorandosi di un decimo rispetto al mattino, ha staccato l''undicesimo tempo a solo quattro decimi dal terzo classificato. Domani Ayrton avr?á margine per migliorare la sua posizione nello schieramento.Terza gara con la BMW S 1000 RR Superbike per Javier Fores che ha stabilito il 19?? tempo, migliorandosi di quasi mezzo secondo rispetto alle prove del mattino.

Nella* Superstock,* Sylvain Barrier *ha portato la migliore BMW S 1000 RR al quinto posto anche se lontano dal leader provvisorio della graduatoria.* Lorenzo Zanetti *(undicesimo) dovr?á *migliorare per contendere a Petrucci *la seconda posizione nella FIM Cup.

Serafino Foti,*direttore sportivo del BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike team, ha commentato la giornata di prove: "Giornata abbastanza positiva. Ayrton ha dimostrato di aver un buon passo in ottica gara. Ed essendo la *classifica delle prove molto corta,*in pochi decimi troviamo infatti otto piloti,*l'11?? tempo da lui realizzato non ?¿ male.Fores ha fatto quello che ci aspettavamo. Cercheremo di aiutarlo per fare un piccolo passo in avanti domani.Nella Superstock*siamo un po' in difficolt?á con entrambi i piloti,*cosa inaspettata, ma siamo sicuri che domani, riusciremo a trovare il bandolo della matassa per migliorare."

Superbike*- Qualifiche: 1?? C. Checa (Ducati) 1'43.579 - 2?? E. Laverty (Yamaha) + 0.087 - 3?? S. Guintoli (Ducati) + 0.281....11??* A. Badovini (BMW) *+ 0.699 ... 19??* J. Fores (BMW) *+ 2.497
Superstock*- Qualifiche: 1?? D. Petrucci (Ducati) 1'46.012 - 2?? S. Morais (Kawasaki) + 1.285 - 3?? L. Baroni (Ducati) + 1.664... 5??* S. Barrier (BMW) *+ 2.091...11??* L. Zanetti (BMW) *+ 2.515

There is the racing silly season then there is the silly side of racing promotions ÔÇô Thursdays WSBK style
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hPDmA_ARTWM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

MotoGP

motogp.com: Stoner holds the lead on home soil at FP 3
-the-
motogp.com: Stoner sweeps practice, takes pole. Results

ducati.com: Uphill start for the Ducati Team at Phillip Island

gresiniracing.com: Super Sic makes fine start at Phillip Island

teamtech3.fr: Fantastic 4th for Edwards in Phillip Island practice

suzuki-racing.com: Bautista looking strong at Phillip Island

teamaspar.net: Cudlin makes solid progress on day one at Phillip Island

Formula 1

formula1.com FP-3: McLaren dominates in the dry too.

Hamilton went on to take the pole for the Korean GP.

Provisional Grid

1 Hamilton
2 Vettel
3 Button
4 Webber
5 Massa
6 Alonso
7 Rosberg
8 Petrov
9 Di Resta
10 Sutil
11 Alguersuari
12 Schumacher
13 Buemi
14 Kobayashi
15 Senna
16 Maldonado
17 Perez
18 Barrichello
19 Kovalainen
20 Trulli
21 Glock
22 D'Ambrosio
23 Liuzzi

No time for ÔÇô Ricciardo

I will post more F1 timing with the WSBK Superpole results.

bbc.co.uk: Qualifying live commentary transcript

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Other Racing

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eXAzF5riMHc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

On the Street

ultimatemotorcycling.com: 2012 Yamaha WR250R

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fKYCk76ZEt4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

webbikeworld.com: AFX Magnus helmet review

motorcyclistonline.com: Vemar Attivo Helmet ÔÇô review

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ufQ0sV2WPDI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DA0HB58TVNM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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The Mothership

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FWIW

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Cage World

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/AINTyQQp0YE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Reference::

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 | Bloomsburg, PA

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

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

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.

Woot of the Day

1248585279_iDbKX-O.jpg
MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: SEE: Don't pause or second-guess your course of action. In critical situations, time and space are at a premium. http://t.co/ZWxeceol


QOD: Which of the following is true of brightly colored, reflective helmets and clothing? http://t.co/obtKqZQV


Bike Candy

BMW R80 Kosaka Toshiyuki via [/url=http://caferacerculture.blogspot.com/2011/10/bmw-r-80-kosaka-toshiyuki.html]Cafer Racer Culture Blog[/url]

CafeRacer2-L.jpg


CafeRacer3-L.jpg


CafeRacer1-L.jpg


Hello!
First of all, thank you for maintaining your blog.*
I am a big fan of your blog! I check it everyday.*
I finished making my BMW Cafe Racer. Here are the pictures.*
Please update your blog with my pictures.*

Here are the specs. of my Cafe Racer:*
BMW R-80
Handmade SSR Original Seat Rail*
Handmade SSR Original Seat
Alluminum Tank
NCR Racer Fairing
Color: White Pearl and Frame Color:Candy Blue*
and more...

Thank you,*

Kosaka Toshiyuki* JP
 
Saturday 15 October : Update - Qualifiying - WSBK/MotoGP/F1

SBK

Saturday ÔÇô

Q 2

worldsbk.com: Four different machines fill top four qualifying spots

On to Superpole and things did not turn out as well for BMW.

Portimao - SUPERBIKE - Superpole*1

1. Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.583
2. Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.657
3. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.671
4. Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'42.708
5. Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.840
6. Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'42.919
7. Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'42.970
8. Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'42.985
9. Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.021
10. Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.021
11. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'43.028
12. Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.054
13. Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'43.306
14. Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'43.661
15. Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.683
16. Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.078

Not advancing to Superpole rounds
17. Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 
18. Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 
19. Karl Muggeridge (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 
20. Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 
21. Joshua Waters (Yoshimura*Suzuki*Racing*Team) Suzuki GSX-R1000 
22. Santiago Barragan (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R

Haslam continued his fall in the charts in Superpole 2 finishing in P11 and not advancing to the final round. Badovini stayed in the pits shown in P7 while others took a final flyer and was bumped.

Portimao - SUPERBIKE - Superpole*2

1. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.097
2. Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.168
3. Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.222
4. Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'42.235
5. Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.323
6. Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'42.417
7. Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'42.423
8. Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.456

Not advancing to Superpole 3
9. Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'42.645
10. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'42.740
11. Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'42.879
12. Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.012
13. Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'43.306
14. Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'43.661
15. Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.683
16. Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.078

Portimao - SUPERBIKE - Superpole*3 and the final grid.

1. Jonathan Rea (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'41.712
2. Carlos Checa (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'41.951
3. Eugene Laverty (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.173
4. Marco Melandri (Yamaha*World*Superbike*Team) Yamaha YZF R1 1'42.259
5. Sylvain Guintoli (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.627
6. Jakub Smrz (Team*Effenbert-Liberty*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'42.710
7. Joan Lascorz (Kawasaki*Racing*Team) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'43.282
8. Noriyuki Haga (PATA*Racing*Team*Aprilia) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.307

9. Ayrton Badovini (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'42.645
10. Tom Sykes (Kawasaki*Racing*Team*Superbike) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'42.740
11. Leon Haslam (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'42.879
12. Leon Camier (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.012
13. Maxime Berger (Supersonic*Racing*Team) Ducati 1098R 1'43.306
14. Michel Fabrizio (Team*Suzuki*Alstare) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'43.661
15. Davide Giugliano (Althea*Racing) Ducati 1098R 1'43.683
16. Mark Aitchison (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'44.078
17. Max Biaggi (Aprilia*Alitalia*Racing*Team) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'43.907
18. Troy Corser (BMW*Motorrad*Motorsport) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.131
19. Karl Muggeridge (Castrol*Honda) Honda CBR1000RR 1'45.268
20. Javier Fores (BMW*Motorrad*Italia*SBK*Team) BMW S1000 RR 1'45.274
21. Joshua Waters (Yoshimura*Suzuki*Racing*Team) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'45.311
22. Santiago Barragan (Team*Pedercini) Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'45.495

hondaproracing.com: Haga with Rea in 2012

Silly Season Rumors ÔÇô continued
gpone.com: Buzzoni - ÔÇ£Checa a betÔÇØ

Announcements should come Sunday if the deal is done.

MotoGP

motogp.com: Stoner tears up Phillip Island taking pole at his home Grand Prix

gresiniracing.com: Super Sic on front row at Phillip Island

Ducati.com: Second row for Hayden, Rossi thirteenth

rizla-suzuki.com: Best ever qualifying for Bautista

teamtech3.fr: Edwards confident of top 10 at Phillip Island

teamaspar; Cudlin doubtful for race


motomatters.com: Press release roundup for all the Phillip Island propaganda I missed

Formula 1

Qualifying Press Conferenc

Qualifying

Classifications
Lap Times
Maximum Speed
Sector Times
Speed Trap

formula1.com: Qualfying analysis

formula1.com; Selected team and driver quotes
 
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