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Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

Tuesday, March 9

World Superbike/MotoGP/AMA Calendar

WSBK et al.

The rumor continues to build.

moto22.com: Ruben Xaus could stay on foot after Valencia

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If it happens BMW must find a rider with 4 cylinder SBK experience.

MotoGP

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Privateers privileges in 2012

IOMTT

AMA Pro Racing

Other

Bikes in the Fast Lane: A look at Livia Lancelot, female motorcross knight

On the Street

BMW Group increases sales by 14.0 percent in February
ÔÇó 09.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release

Wide range of new models presented at the Geneva Motor Show

Munich. The BMW Group once again improved sales volumes substantially in February of this year. A total of 91,758 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce automobiles were delivered to customers (prev. yr. 80,474) ÔÇô representing an increase of 14.0%. The figure for the year to the end of February was 173,911 units ÔÇô 15.3% higher than the previous year (150,893).

Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing: ÔÇ£After a substantial increase in January, sales year on year were significantly higher as well in February. Last month we saw growth in Asia, in particular, but we also made gains in many markets in Europe, Africa and the Americas. In key sales markets such as the US, the automotive sector is also showing encouraging signs of a gradual recovery.ÔÇ£ Almost all markets are experiencing a definite upturn. In the US, the BMW brand was the segment leader in February with growth of 16.3%. In Germany, the BMW Group managed to increase volumes by 6.8% despite the downward market trend. In China, the company sold 96.7% more vehicles in the month under review.

Robertson added: ÔÇ£We are looking forward to the new BMW 5 Series and the start of deliveries on 20 March. There is already tremendous interest in this vehicle which accounts for almost one fifth of BMW retail volumes ÔÇô and is one of the brandÔÇÖs mainstays, alongside the 1 Series and the 3 Series. However, primarily due to the 5 Series model change, we expect temporary slower growth in total sales during the launch phase in spring.ÔÇØ

A total of 78,248 BMW brand automobiles were delivered to customers in February ÔÇô an increase of 13.7% (prev. yr. 68,823). For the year to the end of February, sales were 14.7% higher than the previous year (129,085) at 148,112 units.

Sales of the MINI brand also continued to perform well. Last month, 13,443 MINI cars, 16.0% more than in February 2009 (11,584), were delivered to customers worldwide. 25,645 MINI vehicles were sold in the year to the end of February. That represents an increase of 18.2% (prev. yr. 21,704). Ian Robertson: ÔÇ£Over the next few years the MINI product family will grow from three to six members. The MINI familyÔÇÖs fourth model, the new MINI Countryman, will arrive in showrooms in September and will play an important part in the premium brandÔÇÖs long-term growth.ÔÇØ

For the first time the new MINI Countryman is currently being presented at the Geneva Motor Show. Until 14 March, the BMW Group will be showcasing a wide range of new models and technologies at the show. Other highlights include the world premiere of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan as well as revised BMW 3 Series Coup?®, 3 Series Convertible and X5 models. The 2010 Geneva Motor Show also provides a showcase for two very innovative concept cars: With its BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid, BMW is presenting its concept for a ground-breaking full-hybrid model for the upper middle class segment. Also making its European debut is the BMW Concept ActiveE, a concept car based on the BMW 1 Series Coup?®, equipped with fully-electric drive and innovative energy storage technology. Two new BMW hybrid models will be available by mid-April, when the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 go on sale in Europe.

The Rolls-Royce brand delivered 67 automobiles in February (prev. yr. 67/+0.0%). For the year to the end of February, 154 Rolls-Royce cars were handed over to customers worldwide (prev. yr. 104/+48.1%).

Following a good performance in January, deliveries in the Motorcycle Segment again rose substantially in February by 24.6% to reach a total of 5,485 vehicles (prev. yr. 4,401). For the year to the end of February, that represents an increase of 14.4% to 9,299 motorcycles sold (prev. yr. 8,132). The revised R 1200 GS, R 1200 GS Adventure and R 1200 RT, all strong volume models, contributed to this growth as well as the newly introduced S 1000 RR.


motociclismo.es: BMW G450X 2010
The new BMW G450X, more effective and practical

motociclismo.es: Husqvarna unveils its new 2010 range

Visordown.com gets involved in the Top Ten fever that grips publications this time of the year. They do it with a twist naming their list of The Ten best motorcycle engines..ever!

You canÔÇÖt have a motorbike without a motor, and over the decades thereÔÇÖs been some truly glorious bike engines. This is our Top10 list of the greatest, most important and most innovative bike engines ever made, as we pay homage to horsepower.


visordown.com: Honda VFR1200F becomes UK top seller in Feb 2010
Is this because Brit riders are depressed and punishing themselves or did they see something in Shamu that the press did not? The article includes a breakdown by class for top seller in February. BMW took two classes with the GS and the R1200RT. For several years the GS was the top selling big bike in the UK.

I know we have some graphic design people on the forum. rolandsandsdesign.blogspot.com is looking for a graphic designer for RSD

sportrider.com: First ride ÔÇô 2010 Honda Bt700V/C ÔÇô ABS

This bike caused a stir on the forum when it appeared. I scanned the article and it is a detailed report but I did that after reading the last lines.

Though it's this comfortable ride that makes for a less than exciting experience when the road turns exciting, the NT is still surprisingly capable. That being said, the technology behind the NT700V is long in the tooth already and if it were me, I might be looking to spend my $9999 on other Japanese-or even German-alternatives.

IÔÇÖll leave it up you to decide if F800 riders need to worry.



world.honda.com: Honda to build second motorcycle production plant in India

Asphalt and Rubber takes on the restructuring of H-D in a three part series. This isnÔÇÖt a sound bite cure proposal, yet does it make sense? Take a look at part 1 and tell us what you think.
asphaltandrubber.com: Save Harley Davidson ÔÇô Step 1: Redefine and reposition the you market your brand

Some of the marketing department members that A&R laid off in their article must be working for Triumph now.
Bikes in the Fast Lane: Marlon Brando lands motorcycle marketing deal.

Bike Cruller

TodayÔÇÖs treat comes to you from the pen of stylist and designer Jean Fancois Vicente and was featured over at = http://thekneeslider.com/archives...0-board-tracker/&vr=152&psp=10]The Kneeslider site. This design takes the concept Mac Motorcycles has in a slightly different direction. Since the 450 SuperSingle from Roland Sands appeared longings for a powerful sporting single that handles have been stirring in my mind. (More on that in another post.)

For more information follow the links and then tell me what do you think.

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Wednesday, March 10

World Superbike/MotoGP/AMA Calendar

Racing into the BMW MOA 2010 Rally :Rally Seminar :thumb :thumb

WSBK et al.

This could be interesting ÔÇô worldsbk.com: Live chat with Ruben Xaus on Yahoo-Eurosport

Following Eurosport's in-depth coverage of the opening round of World Superbike at Philip Island, YAHOO! EUROSPORT will be hosting a very special live chat with Catalan rider Ruben Xaus on the popular PIROTECNICA SUPERBIKE blog, hosted by former Superbike champion Fabrizio Pirovano.

The chat will take place on Friday, March 12th at 15.00 CET on the following address:

http://it.eurosport.yahoo.com/altri-sport/diretta/

Bmw Motorrad Motosport rider, Ruben XAUS will be there live to answer questions from Superbike fans.

This is the first in a series of live chats during the 2010 season which will enable all fans to interact live with one of the competitors of World Superbike.


Ben and Eddie ÔÇô Part 2

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MotoGP

motorcyclenews.com: Lorenzo out of next pre season test?

IOMTT


AMA Pro Racing


Other Racing News

The Rumor
cradisiac.com: Troubles at BMW Endurance Racing France with rider contracts
The Follow Up Report
caradisiac.com: Endurance ÔÇô BMW without Lagrive: The official statement that points the finger at manager
As Reported on World-Endurance.com

fim-live.com: 2012 FIM International Six Days Enduro

Formula 1 and 

dailyexpress.co.uk: Get read for a classic era of Formula One
.ÔÇØÔÇÿThis is potentially the most exciting line-up since the late EightiesÔÇÖ

fia.com: Bahrain Grand Prix Preview

Drivers and teams are arriving at Bahrain. Included in McLarens kit is an alternate wind for their car. The FIA inspection was delayed due to flight problems. To be certain they are not kept from the grid due to a last minute wing ban they are bringing an alternative.

bridgestonemotorsport.com: All change for Formula One 2010

racecar-engineering.com: Xtrac breaks the mould by cutting F1 gearbox costs

crash.net: Stefan GP and USF1 the legacy of failure

crash.net: Coulthard ÔÇô New teams saga ÔÇÿirresponsibleÔÇÖ and ÔÇÿdegradesÔÇÖ F1

f1technical.net: Performing tyre changes in 3 seconds
f1technical.net: WhatÔÇÖs new with pit stops for 2010?

jamesallononf1.com: What a driver brings to car development

A grid slot is open for 2011. Competition and development for the race to win that spot continues as the 2010 season is about to begin. Racecarengineering.com looks at safety concepts Lola is developing as part of its efforts to win that spot.

Guardian.co.uk: Team guides
McLaren
Toro Rosso
Williams
Virgin
Sauber
Renault
Red Bull
Lotus
Force India
Mercedes
Ferrari
Hispania Racing Team

independent.co.uk: Driver guide

Out on a limb:

DriverÔÇÖs Champion: Sebastian Vettel
ConstructorÔÇÖs Champion: McLaren

Championships:
The field is studded with World Champion drivers and front running teams with great cars neither of which will decide the championship. When the dust settles from tyres the carbon fiber from crashes has been swept from the track and the chequered flag falls on the last deciding race the championships for the season will have been won on the pit wall not the track.

The team with the best race day strategist, what ever job title that person holds for the team, will win the drivers championship. The best team management team will win the constructors championship.

Webber and Vettel will push each other but in the end I think this is VettelÔÇÖs year. Hamilton will come up short in the driverÔÇÖs competition but will be the one credited for winning the constructorÔÇÖs title for McLaren.

Most Improved Team: Renault
Force India is a contender for this very subjective accolade but only a contender. Look for Kubica to take podiums and points through the season. Petrov will be no slouch either. With new team ownership and Renault focusing on the engine bay where their attention has always belonged this will be the turn around story of 2010.

Biggest Disappointment for 2010: Mercedes GP
Pick any team sport to follow and there is a team that is riddled with star players management and a big wallet that is unable to produce even with those assets in hand. That is the 2010 F1 role for the Silver Arrow this season.

Dark Horse 2010: Sauber
The satellite Ferrari engine has proved a good one for teams to press for contention in races. SauberÔÇÖs Ferrari engine should give them the horses they need to race on race day. Tyres are going to play a big part once again in F1 like it or not. Sauber is the easiest car on tyres while having decent speed. With the reduction in tyre numbers for a race weekend the tyre management will be a very important issue. Q3 will find Sauber on the best compound for grip, assuming they make it that far, allowing them to snag a position that will put them in the hunt if not the lead.

The Little Four:
IÔÇÖm a U of Mn alum. We played football in the Big Ten. The truth be told of the leagues history and it is a story of the Big 4 and the little six or some other variation of that combination of numbers in any given season. So it is with F1 in 2010 with Sauber Lotus HRT and Virgin.

Sauber is in the little four by virtue of being a rookie team in name only. Force India or Toro Rosso could be listed in this group but by virtue of their tenure in F1 they avoid being listed in the mix. Of the four Sauber is the break away team. Lotus appears to be the cream of the remaining three.

I fear that the performance in the group will be down right ugly. What that means for the teams will be the season long grist for journalists and fans. Teams come and go in F1 and perhaps some of these should go but will they take Cosworth and others with them in the process? The Max and Bernie show gave us the return of Cosworth as an engine supplier. Will Cosworth survive its association with them? Could Williams be taken down in the process?

Most Dangerous Team:
Massa and others have been vocal about the danger the new teams present to racing. Pointing to disparity of speed driver skills and development the fear is F1 becomes NASCAR and the crash and burn takes out teams and drivers that should be up front in the process. Taking it to the next level Massa has understandably expressed his concern for the safety of life and limb of drivers because the danger the new teams present. But F1 danger comes in many forms.

While youÔÇÖre watching for crashes on the track over the season watch Virgin closely potentially the most dangerous team on the grid. Yes this is in large part due to the fears Massa raises but Richard Branson and Virgin are the most dangerous team for the future of F1. Virgin is on a budget.

Branson has put the team on a budget and that is unheard of in F1. If that isnÔÇÖt bad enough he has set the goal of turning a profit with the team. The finances of F1 have always been something of a mystery so how he calculates profit and loss is his own. The cause and effect will roll out over the season and the balance of this Formula.

Computer modeling instead of wind tunnel testing and development is a key part of the budget constraint. If Virgin can demonstrate the wisdom of this (I believe podiums are not required for this) the economics of F1 will fundamentally change. Sponsor dollars are not unlimited. Wind tunnels moved car development from the track to the windy tube and drastically increased expenses in the process. IF Virgin shows any success the shift will be to computers and who does the best job of data gathering and writes the best simulation program.

This story line will not be settled by sound bites after Bahrain but will play out over the season. It has the real potential of being the change that turns F1 on its head once again.

On the Street

motorcyclenews.com: Online reservation system for Yamaha Super Tenere open [at least in Europe]

londobikers.com: BMW Motorrad technicians are first to pass the highest technical grade in the UK

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FWIW


xkcd.com

motobastards.com


Bike Cruller

Kawasaki V12 2300cc by Allen Millyard

ÔÇ£Allen Millyard is keen on motorcycles in the same way you might say the Pope is keen on religion. In Allen's lounge, where you might expect to find a coffee table, he keeps a big Suzuki and a 1,000cc Kawasaki. They have to go there, because a brand new motocrosser has just arrived in the dining room. And if you think that's strange, wait until you see the Gilera, Malaguti and Hondas upstairsÔÇØ comes from one of the opening paragraphs of a Telegraph.co.uk 2004 article on Allen Millyard, the builder of todayÔÇÖs Bike Cruller. Some of you may have seen the bike in a feature Motorcyclist did in February of 2009 which gives more details on the bike itself. The pictures here come from a series of image posts on the blog BSA Bits Scraps and Allsorts.

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Thursday, March 11

World Superbike/MotoGP/AMA Calendar

WSBK et al.

worldsbk.com: BMW update

motoblog.it: WSBK: Xaus is recovering and will do well at Portimao ÔÇ£ensures TardozziÔÇØ

"Ruben can be fast and gets results and I've seen very well in these 2 days because I believe that will fit for the Portuguese leg of SBK." La S 1000 RR ricever?á molti aggiornamenti per la prossima gara anche se Tardozzi spera che questi update arrivino gradualmente. The S 1000 RR will receive several updates for the next race even if Tardozzi hoped that this update to come gradually

bmwra.org: Rumors around Ruben

MotoGP

motogp.com: Paul Denning details the new Suzuki GSV-R

ultimatemotorcycling.com: ÔÇÿFastÔÇØ Freddie Spencer GP history

image.php

Rmdmotors.com
ÔÇ£Once in a lifetime opportunity to own Freddie SpencerÔÇÖs 1983 Championship NS500 and his 1985 NSR250 championship bike. Both bikes will be sold as a pair only, will not separate. Both bikes are located in the USA. Serious inquires only!ÔÇØ



AMA Pro Racing

To: AMA Pro Road Racing Entrants, Riders and Crew
From: AMA Pro Member Services
Date: March 9, 2010
Subject: AMA Pro Road Racing Entry Deadlines Extended

The pre-entry deadlines for the remaining AMA Pro Road Racing events have been extended. Updated Season Entry Forms for the 2010 AMA Pro Road Racing season are now available on the AMA Pro Competition Section at http://www.amaproracing.com/competition/.

Questions and inquiries about the entry process can be placed to AMA Pro Racing Member Services at (386) 492-1014 ext. 151.

Formula 1 and 

formula1.com: Quick change ÔÇô Formula 1 pit stops 2010 style

timesonline.co.uk: F1 pit crews face life in a faster lane

Tech Talk
Ferrari F10 ÔÇô aerodynamic wheel device
Ferrari F10 ÔÇô secured wheel nuts

On the Street

roadracingworld.com: R&G Racing to outfit California Superbike School BMW S1000RR fleet

webbikeworld.com: A womenÔÇÖs perspective on motorcycle engines

motoflash.ro: BMW S1000RR wins Masterbike 2010

motorcyclenews.com: 210bhp with no tuning!

motorcyclenews.com: BMW wont make a naked S1000RRyet

londonbikers: BOS release can for the BMW S1000RR

motociclismo.es: BMW GS 30th Aniversiary

Ducati Piaggio Merger rumors

moto22.com: Piaggio could buy Ducati

it.reuters.com: Rumors of Piaggio and Ducati merger baseless

motosiclismo.es: Piaggio denies going to buy Ducati

Milana Finaza is one of the sources for the Piaggio Ducati merger rumors. I found these on their site.

Ducati remains aligned with prices on Opa, Piaggio continues to take on speculative rumors

Piaggio denies that marriage with Ducati is at stake

dealernews.com: 2010 Royal Enfield modes receive modern engine

BMW Group posts positive earnings for 2009

ÔÇó 11.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release

Profit before tax up by 17.7% to euro 413 million
Unchanged dividend of euro 0.30 per share proposed
Reithofer: Profitable volume growth targeted for 2010

Munich . The BMW Group recorded positive earnings for the financial year 2009 as planned despite the ongoing worldwide financial and economic crisis. Profit before tax rose by 17.7% to euro 413 million (2008: euro 351 million). Net profit amounted to euro 210 million (2008: euro 330 million/-36.4%) due to the higher effective tax rate. Revenues decreased moderately by 4.7% to euro 50,681 million (2008: euro 53,197 million). Based on the proposal of the Board of Management and Supervisory Board, the dividend will remain unchanged against the previous year at euro 0.30 per share of common stock and euro 0.32 per share of preferred stock.

ÔÇ£We performed well in 2009 despite difficult market conditions worldwide. Our cost management and efficiency improvement measures had a positive impact, even though the effects of the worldwide financial and economic crisis were still being feltÔÇ£, stated Norbert Reithofer, the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG on Thursday in Munich. ÔÇ£We are proposing a dividend for 2009 despite the difficult economic climate, demonstrating the confidence we have in our operating strength, and we also want our shareholders to participate in the companyÔÇÖs performanceÔÇ£, continued Reithofer.

Automobiles segment records fourth-quarter EBIT of euro 93 million

Earnings of the Automobiles segment fell in 2009 due to lower unit sales brought about by the weak economies worldwide. Nevertheless, thanks to a more stable market environment towards the end of the year, the segment was able to generate a fourth-quarter profit before financial result (EBIT) of euro 93 million. For the full year, the segment recorded negative EBIT of euro 265 million (2008: positive EBIT of euro 690 million) and a loss before tax of euro 588 million (2008: profit before tax of euro 318 million). Revenues fell to euro 43,737 million (2008: euro 48,782 million).

In total, the BMW Group sold 1,286,310 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehicles in 2009 (2008: 1,435,876 units/-10.4%). This performance enabled the BMW Group to increase its market share in the premium segment and, as previously announced, to retain its position as the worldÔÇÖs leading premium manufacturer.

A total of 1,068,770 BMW brand cars (2008: 1,202,239 units/-11.1%) were sold in 2009, putting the BMW brand once again well ahead of relevant competitors in the premium segment. Strong sales increases were achieved by the BMW 7 Series (52,680 units/+35.7%), the BMW X6 (41,667 units/+56.8%) and the BMW Z4 (22,761 units/+26.4%). In Germany, both 7 Series (7,439 units/+74.8%) and the BMW X5 (10,933 units/-31.9%) and X6 (4,940 units/+51.0%) finished the year as clear leaders in their relevant segments. Since their launch at the end of October 2009 up to the end of the year, 8,499 units of the BMW X1 and 3,052 units of the 5 Series Gran Turismo had been sold worldwide.

The MINI brand sold 216,538 units worldwide in 2009 (2008: 232,425 units/-6.8%). The model mix remained at a high level: more than one half of the brandÔÇÖs customers (53.6%) opted for the MINI Cooper, with 26.2% selecting the MINI Cooper S and 20.2% the MINI One.

Rolls-Royce sold 1,002 motor cars (2008: 1,212 units/-17.3%) during the year, thus remaining the clear market leader in the ultra-luxury segment. The new Rolls-Royce Ghost made a good start, with 167 vehicles handed over to customers in December 2009.

The BMW Group grew strongly in 2009 in the emerging markets of China (90,536 units/+37.5%), Brazil (6,398 units/+118.8%) and India (3,619 units/+24.4%), achieving new sales records in all three markets. "We plan to grow our sales again in China, Brazil and India in the current year ÔÇ£, stated Reithofer. Germany was the largest single market for the company in 2009 for its BMW and MINI brand cars, with a total of 258,012 units (2008: 284,786 units/-9.4%) sold. With 33,517 cars handed over to customers, the MINI brand recorded its most successful year in Germany to date. The BMW Group also plans to increase sales in the German market during 2010, and hence, to increase market share in the premium segment.

In the USA, the BMW Group sold 241,727 vehicles (2008: 303,190 units/-20.3%) during the past year. The BMW brand, with 196,502 units sold, remained the best performing European premium car brand in the USA. The BMW Group forecasts that sales will increase in the US market during the current year.

EBIT of euro 19 million for Motorcycles segment in 2009

The earnings performance of the Motorcycles segment in 2009 was also adversely affected by difficult business conditions. EBIT fell to euro 19 million (2008: euro 60 million). Segment revenues totalled euro 1,069 million (2008: euro 1,230 million). With 87,306 units (2008: 101,685 units/-14.1%) sold worldwide, BMW Motorcycles recorded a moderate drop in sales volume compared to the market as a whole.


Sharp rise in earnings of Financial Services segment

Earnings of the Financial Services segment rose considerably in 2009 following a significant burden last year due to additional charges for residual value and credit risks. The EBIT rose to euro 355 million (2008: negative EBIT of euro 216 million). Segment revenues totalled euro 15,798 million (2008: euro 15,725 million). The increase in the credit loss ratio to 0.84% (2008: 0.59%) was in line with expectations.

The volume of new retail customers contracts declined by 15.8% to euro 24,709 million. The proportion of new BMW and MINI brand cars financed by the Financial Services segment amounted to 49.0%, up by 0.5 percentage points compared to the previous year.

Workforce of approximately 96,000 employees at end of 2009

The BMW GroupÔÇÖs workforce decreased over the past year as a result of a combination of natural attrition, pre-retirement part-time working arrangements and voluntary employment contract termination agreements. The BMW Group workforce comprised 96,230 employees at the end of the year (December 31, 2008: 100,041 employees/-3.8%) worldwide. The number of trainees remained at a high level, namely 3,915 compared to 4,102 one year earlier.

BMW Group cautiously optimistic for 2010

The worldwide financial and economic crisis will continue to have an impact on the automobile industry during the current year. The BMW Group will, however, grow profitably thanks to new models and the expected gradual global economic recovery in 2010. ÔÇ£We are heading into the new year cautiously optimistic. Our new models will provide us with a tailwind over the course of the year. We fully intend to remain the worldÔÇÖs leading provider of premium cars in 2010 and plan to increase sales within the single digit percentage range to over 1.3 million vehiclesÔÇ£, added Reithofer.

One of the most important model developments in 2010 is the new BMW 5 Series which will be launched at the end of March, thus providing further momentum from the beginning of the second quarter. The new BMW X1 and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo models ÔÇô both of which were very successfully launched at the end of 2009 ÔÇô will also have a positive impact on sales performance in 2010. The MINI Countryman will be introduced onto the markets during the current year.

Bike Cruller

TodayÔÇÖs cruller was built at ÔÇØOfficinie RessoPuro. It has been featured on several websites on various days this week. There is a short write up over at bikeexif.com.

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World Superbike/MotoGP/AMA Calendar

WSBK et al.

fim-live.com: Vermeulen reveals fitness worries

Formula 1 and 

Friday practice times:
Session 1 classifications Session times
Session 2 classifications Session times

This is the first race to have former drivers as part of the race steward team.
Steward Biographies
Paul Gutjahr
Alain Prost
Enzo Spano
Mazen Al-Hilli

The hope is this will help with seeing what is just a racing incident and what is a violation.

fia.com: Bahrain GP Press Conference 1
11/03/2010
2010 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX
THURSDAY PRESS CONFERENCE ÔÇô March 11, 2010

DRIVERS: Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari), Jenson BUTTON (McLaren), Lewis HAMILTON (McLaren), Felipe MASSA (Ferrari), Michael SCHUMACHER (Mercedes GP)


formula1.com: Cause and effect
The official F1 site runs through the key rule changes for 2010 and some of their expected impacts. What remains to be seen is how they actually play out on race weekend.

jamesallenonf1.com: The blogger mentions Prost briefly then moves on to speculation that the 107% rule will come back to F1

BMW Sauber F1 2010 footage
Part 1
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Part 2
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bbc.co.uk: USF1 Team could face action over failure to be ready
reuters.com: USf1 could face sanctions for absence
With the failure of USF1 to show for the season opener at Bahrain officially the team is potentially subject to penalties. This non-event event was full expected. What is unknown and thus unexpected is what the FIA will do next.


On the Street

bmwra.org: Nate Kern at Daytona on stock RR

Continental_S100RR_7-thumb-415x334-8036.jpg

HFL: WhatÔÇÖs up, you zany Germans

motorcyclistonline.com: Honda VFR1200F vs. the World

Bikes in the Fast Lane: Pakistan ÔÇô that is how you patrol on a motorcycle

Bikes in the Fast Lane: LEO caught at 149mph is immoral, gets job back

motorcyclenews.com: Police sell Pans off cheap and replace with Pans

motorcycle-usa.com: Dr. Frazier preps KRX250 Adventure Tourer

cycrilhuzeblog.com: Paul Teutut Sr lawsuit against Paul Teutul Jr ÔÇô judge gives them 60 days to settle out of court

Bike Cruller

The Battle for Europe goes to a new level and motorcyclists should love it.

The 750cc class of bikes was replaced by the book ends of liter bikes, 600s and the various variants. The class in between has been the haunt of bikes like the F800 series form BMW. The practical daily realities of European riders and looming legislation have caused bike builders to reconsider the middle ground. Now Yamaha fires a major shot in this market and at BMW. Fans of the middleweight class of bikes the war for your dollars is heating up and in the process the selection and quality of those offerings will too.

From Yamaha FZ8 Fazer8 Press Release

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Saturday, March 13

World Superbike/MotoGP/AMA Calendar

WSBK et al.

Rumors continue to surround Ruben Xaus

racereport.nl: Veneman BMW test in Valencia, Xaus riding in Potimao

motorsport-total.com: BMW Xaus ÔÇô TardozziÔÇÖs main site

motorsport-artuell.com: Rolan Resch, the Austrian pilot for Reitwagen, is working flat out on his return to WSBK

motorcyclenews.com: WSB paddock still waiting on Aprilia engine verdict

Magazine: Phillips Island 2010
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MotoGP

Moto2 replaced 250GP to get more teams on the field and cut costs. The grid is fully subscribed and according to this from asphaltandrubber.com Moto2 Costs Ôé¼700,000 per Season ÔÇô Moto2 Bikes Are Over 10x Cheaper than 250GP
Now will it be a winner with the fans?

IOMTT


AMA Pro Racing


Formula 1 and 

The new F1 Formula, the 2010 F1 season and Bahrain GP weekend are underway. Reminds me of the first days of school for a campus that has K-12 all on the same grounds.

fia.com: Friday Bahrain Press Conference

formula1.com: Friday ÔÇô selected driver quotes

autosport.com: Hill set to join stewards panel at two races

guardian.co.uk: Renault claims the McLaren wing design on car is illegal

QUALIFYING:
Classification
Lap Times
Maximum Speeds
Sector Times
Speed Trap

bbc.co.uk: Qualifying as it happened

autosport.com: Vettel surprised to take pole position
autosport.com: Massa takes second on his return to the grid
autosport.com: Alonso confirms FerrariÔÇÖs pace

Other Racing News

fim-live.com: 24 Hours of Le Mans 2010 musical chairs for riders as the season starts on the Bugatti track
ÔÇØ As a new challenger on the World Endurance scene, the team BMW Michelin is a true eye-catcher. But the BMW S 1000 RR was not the only thing people were talking about.ÔÇØ

motoblog.it: Team BMW Motorrad Italy Superstock 2010 video presentation

On the Street

motorcycledaily.com: BMW and Aprilia dominate Masterbike test

dealernews.com: S1000RR ad becomes BMWÔÇÖs most popular YouTube video ever

caradisiac.com: Bimota Db6 Delirio Superlight 2010 light is right.
With a dry weight of 158lbs Super Light only begins to describe the DB6 Delirio Superlight. But you better bulk up your wallet.

Bike Cruller

BMW released a C1e concept not long ago. The scooter made my 12 Bikes of Christmas list and generated mild interest from others. If anyone in management for BMW Motorrad follows this thread. Please BUILD THIS BIKE

808830398_DQ2JJ-M.jpg


TodayÔÇÖs cruller is the result of a project created by four students of International School of Design with headquarters in Valenciennoise (Department of the North - France): Arik Schwarz (designer fourth year), Beno?«t Czyz (fourth year), Charles Edouard Berchi (third year) Vincent Montreuil (third year). I progettisti la definiscono ÔÇ£un incrocio tra le doti di una supermotard e la sportivit?á di una roadsterÔÇØ e la loro interpretazione "non ha stravolto le linee classiche e aggressive dell'immagine BMW, ma ha solo messo in risalto i contenuti tecnici e un lavoro improntato sul design asimmetrico" . The designers call it "a cross between the qualities of a supermotard and sportsmanship of a roadster and their interpretation" has not distorted the classic lines and aggressive image BMW, but has only highlighted the technical content and work imprinted on the asymmetrical design. Il telaio ?¿ in alluminio, con parti in tubi di acciaio e carbonio. The frame is aluminum, with parts in steel and carbon. Le celle a combustibile sono alimentate da idrogeno contenuto in un serbatoio da 20 litri. Fuel cells are powered by hydrogen contained in a tank of 20 liters. Le batterie di accumulo sono al litio e fosforo. The storage batteries are lithium and phosphorus. L'elettronica ?¿ presente nel controllo dei freni, del motore e delle sospensioni che sono elettromagnetiche. The electronics is in the control of the brakes, engine and suspension are electromagnetic.

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The result of their efforts is stunning in my mind. The future of bikes after the ICE age looks bright!


Via: Motociclismo.it
 
Sunday, March 14

WSBK et al.

motorsport-magazin.com: [Aprilia] Working at the edge of the regulations

Formula 1 and 

Saturday leftovers:

wired.com: McLaren cribs from planes, flutes to build faster F1 cars

uk.reuters.com: Andretti could team up with Lotus again

FIA.com: 2010 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX
SATURDAY POST-QUALIFYING PRESS CONFERENCE ÔÇô March 13, 2010

DRIVERS:
1. Sebastian VETTEL (Red Bull), 1m54.101s
2. Felipe MASSA (Ferrari), 1m54.242s
3. Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari), 1m54.242s

In racing success is always a matter of perspective.
uk.reuters.com: Branson says his F1 team are bang on trackÔÇÖ

flagworld.com: FIa asks mansel to F1 steward in 2010

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Sunday Race Day ÔÇô Bahrain GP

Heat!

Heat and the ability of cars and drivers determined the out come of the race. Heat has to be the factor attributed to VettelÔÇÖs manifold failure. This in turn caused loss of power and his drop from the lead. In tact he and his car were the combination to beat on this day. Hydraulic failures were suffered throughout the field. While some of these may be mechanical in nature, breaking of connections or hoses, heat is a contributing factor in all causing or exacerbating the problem.

17 cars finished the race:

Points Positions
1. F Alonso ÔÇô Ferrari
2. F Massa ÔÇô Ferrari
3. L Hamilton ÔÇô McLaren
4. S Vettel ÔÇô Red Bull
5. N Rosberg- Mercedes
6. M Schumacher ÔÇô Mercedes
7. J Button ÔÇô McLaren
8. M Webber ÔÇô Red Bull
9. V Liuzzi ÔÇô Force India
10. R Barrichello ÔÇô Williams

Other Finishers
11. R Kubica ÔÇô Ranualt
12. A Sutil ÔÇô Force India
13. J Alguersuari ÔÇô Toro Rosso
14. N Hulkenberg ÔÇô Williams
15. H Kovalainen ÔÇô Lotus
16. S Buemi ÔÇô Toro Rosso
17. J Trulli Lotus

DNF
18. P de la Rosa ÔÇô BMW Sauber
19. B Senna ÔÇô Hispania
20. T Glock ÔÇô Virgin
21. V Petrov ÔÇô Renault
22. K Kobayashi ÔÇô BMW Sauber
23. L di Grassi ÔÇô Virgin
24. K Chandhok - Hispania

Race commentary can be seen at bbc.co.uk. I will post more information later.

Other Racing News

moto-station.com: Endurance: Charpentier on BMW at Le Mans?

On the Street

motociclismo.es: K1300GT wins B.O.Y in Touring Class and S1000RR is runner-up to Aprilia in Sport for the Spanish magazinesÔÇÖ rating contest.

motorcycledail.com: Yamaha introduces FZ8 and Fazer 8 to Europe
Another take on these bikes. Still no news about an American release.

yankodesign.com: Air cones for road safety

Q: What is a CEO worth to a troubled company?
A: clutchandchrome.com: Harley-DavidsonÔÇÖs six million dollar CEO

Bike Cruller

The BMW R1

BMW Motorrad may currently be causing a sensation in the sportsbike market with the S1000RR, but did you know that nearly 20 years ago they were developing and testing a prototype sportsbike which never made it into production?more at bmwmotorrad.co.za

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R1 Project 1989-1992 The R1-reserchteam: Georg Emmersberger (Desmodromics), Heinz Hege and Ralf Lewien designed this BMW R1 Prototyp, that unfortunately never will come in production.
Tech specs:
Performance: 135 -140 Hp (100 - 103 KW). max rpm 11.000
Engine:
4-stroke two-cil. boxerengine, liquid cooled. Four valves per cil. ; DOHC DESMODROMIC VG
Bore-stroke: 98 x 66 mm. 996 ccm.
Bosch Fuelinjection; electronic ignition, 6 gear, cardan.
Dry weight 165 kg. From the R1 till 1992 only 4 prototypes were made. One of them is ridable.

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Via:
http://members.chello.nl/~wgj.jansen/text/BMWR1.html
 
17 cars finished the race:

Points Positions
1. F Alonso ÔÇô Ferrari :thumb
2. F Massa ÔÇô Ferrari
3. L Hamilton ÔÇô McLaren
4. S Vettel ÔÇô Red Bull :thumb
5. N Rosberg- Mercedes
6. M Schumacher ÔÇô Mercedes :thumb:thumb
7. J Button ÔÇô McLaren
8. M Webber ÔÇô Red Bull
9. V Liuzzi ÔÇô Force India
10. R Barrichello ÔÇô Williams

Its spring F1 is back :dance
 
Monday, March 15

WSBK et al.

The rumor mill grinds away with questions and observations.
speedweek.de: Frustration and intrigue at BMW

MotoGP

motogp.com: Official Repsol Honda presentation in Madrid

Formula 1 and 

FIA.com
DriverÔÇÖs Championship
ConstructorÔÇÖs Championship
Race Classifications
Race Lap Chart
Bahrain GP Race Delegates Technical Report
Sunday Press Conference
POST-RACE PRESS CONFERENCE ÔÇô March 14, 2010
1. Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari), 1h39m20.396s
2. Felipe MASSA (Ferrari), 1h39m36.495s
3. Lewis HAMILTON (McLaren), 1h39m43.578s

Formula1.com
Paddock postcard from Bahrain ÔÇô Celebrating F1ÔÇÖs 60th

Tech Talk
Ferrari F10 ÔÇô modified front wing
Red Bull rB6 ÔÇô new exhaust positioning
McLaren MP4-25 front chassis duct/rear aero package

uk.reuters.com: Team by team analysis of Bahrain Grand Prix

jamesallenonf1.com: Lotus show that new teams can mean business

Based on real time race coverage I reported Vettel had a manifold failure but
autosport.com: Vetel hit by engine, not exhaust issue

Ferrari.com: Bahrain GP ÔÇô Good first one
McLaren.com: Barhrain GP 2010
Mercedes-gp.com: Double points finish in Bahrain opening race
Renaultf1.com: 2010 Bahrain Grand Prix Sunday
Williamsf1.com: Bahrain GP Race
lotusracing.my: Dream start for Lotus Racing
virginracing.com: Bahrain GP
hispaniaf1team.com: BRT F1 Team completes first 20 laps in race conditions[/url]

bridgestonemotorsport.com: Bahrain grand Prix Report

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When all is said and done for this race weekend this is my favorite picture and car to take to the Bahrain track this weekend.

Other Racing News

fim-live.com: Pedrosa on trial in Madrid

On the Street

Sticking with F1 but on the historical side FangioÔÇÖs Afla finally on track for Phillips Island.

Featured in a previous Bike Cruller here is a follow up video for the BMW HP Kunst.
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thevintagent.blogspot.com: WorldÔÇÖs fastest Velocette

utlitmatemotorcycling.com: Kawasakia look back in time

Bike Cruller

TodayÔÇÖs cruller is a Montes Scorpion that was found on CraigÔÇÖs List in this condition.

M-1.jpg


Click through to Motorcycle Picture of the Day to see it in its current condition.
 
Tuesday, March 16

WSBK et al.

crash.net: Resch unlikely for Portimao return


cdnsuperbike.com: ItÔÇÖs official ÔÇô Szoke to race Hondas in 2010

worldsbk.com: Superstock classes set to start in Portugal

motorsport-aktuell.com: Lammert had to tremble

In the UK
bmwra.org: Richard Cooper Ob S1000RR in the UK
Richard ÔÇ£MiniÔÇØ Cooper will mount a S1000RR in the UKÔÇÖs Metzeler National Superstock Championship

MotoGP

motorcyclenews.com: Pedrosa reveals 2010 targets

motorcyclenews.com: 2010 is make or break, admits Marco Melandri

superbikeplanet.com: Injured Lorenzo to test at Qatar

fim-live.com: Bautista eager for Qatar test

rizla-suzuki-motogp.com: Fianl test awaits Rizla Suzuki in Qatar
First images of the Rislz-Suzuki

IOMTT

Champions [TTXGP] return for 2010 Isle of Man TT

AMA Pro Racing


Formula 1 and 

mag.gpweek.com: Free online and slick coverage each Monday of the F1 Season while doing some bike coverage to boot!

renaultf1.com: Monday Debrief: Interview with James Allison

The build-up to the race in Bahrain was excellent, underlining that Michael SchumacherÔÇÖs return meant there were four world champions taking part. Great!
Many, me included feared that there would be carbon fiber all over the track with so many new teams and drivers. Saturday Button warned that everyone should look out in turn one. None of this happened. If we are to believe the press it was the most boring racing in F1 recorded history. That may be.

Bernie had other plans or was so bored he left half way through the race. Monday he publicly chided the teams that they are here to entertain us with racing.

Talk of rules changes was unpacked along with all the cars as each team setup at the Bahrain circuit. The opening change discussion focused on reinstating a 107% rule in no small part due to HRT not making the practice sessions. Of the new teams they would have been the only one to have been kept off the race track by any application of the rule that I tested. The FIA may be supportive of installing the rule again but Lotus isnÔÇÖt so it ainÔÇÖt going to happen. The teams have to approve unanimously approve of rules changes.

Pit stops and tyres need to be changed according to Whitmarsh. He sees putting a two stop minimum as putting pit strategy and pit passes back in the race. Toss in messing with the tyre compounds to make it difficult to race with one and that will cure the F1 parade blues. I think there is some merit to this. I play chess and like strategy wars but only as part of racing. Racing is on the track for me, not the pits.

Schumacher has declared that ÔÇ£overtaking is basically impossible.ÔÇØ Hamilton is one of many that believe the rule changes have not done a thing for overtaking. They may well be right but I am not as quick to judgment; more on that in a bit.

The teams have gone to their home bases to celebrate lick their wounds and prepare their cars and shipping crates for the Pacific round. A FOTA conference call reportedly is scheduled for Thursday to discuss the problems and try to sort that association into a unified front to negotiate with the FIA and Bernie.
Bahrain was the first day of school. Nothing ever happens on the first day of school and everything happens on the first day of school.

The first day of school kids sort themselves out. Who grew over the summer? Who has new clothes? What are the teachers like and what the heck do they mean with the class syllabus they gave out? You go home after the first day and think it was a big waste and youÔÇÖre just happy there werenÔÇÖt any fights. Just when you think itÔÇÖs safe to go to bed the answers to all those questions hits you and you realize everything changed on the first day of school.

The first day of the 2010 F1 school year may have been boring but there were points handed out. Rules will be discussed and made to work for the rest of the school year but points will make all the difference in how the season plays out.

The number crunchers in the press box are ready to anoint Alonso the Driver Champion and Ferrari the Constructor Champion. But there is that pesky Vettel kid. Can the boys with the prancing red horses count on him breaking a spark plug every race. For 30 plus laps he made them look silly and even finished up in the field with a broken car.

Sibling rivalries are already underway after the first day. Button was very pleased to go to Bahrain as the reigning F1 champion but this is a ÔÇ£what have you done for me todayÔÇØ sport and the pressure to catch up to his teammate Hamilton is already on. Points!

That Williams team everyone wanted to ignore for years suddenly has points in the first race. Sure it was a tenth place finish but the front nine and the one behind have to wonder what Barrichello will be able to achieve as Williams sort out the chassis and their new Cosworth engine. Points!

McLaren continues with wind tunnel developments but they have to wonder if it is money well spent. Those Virgin guys fielded a car designed with a computer and qualified fast enough to bet a 107% rule if it were in place. They are at their home base sorting their car out too. How long before they play a role in determining or challenge for those precious points?

What about those Renault boys? They played nice. They were expected to after the ruckus they made last year. They didnÔÇÖt get any points. They are a racing family that plays hard even when they play by the rules. When will the kid gloves come off and the racing gloves come on with them. The list goes on from there.

The Bahrain GP was the first day of the 2010 school year. Nothing much happened and everything happened. It was a quiet first day as these days go. The second day of school takes place in Melbourne the weekend of March 28th. That is when the school year with all its ups and downs really begins.

Vettel is still my pick for DriverÔÇÖs Champion. He always has shown he has the skills to win in F1 and even be champion but lacked a certain maturity. He is still a kid but it looks like he really matured over the off season. Now if his car doesnÔÇÖt let him down.
Ferrari looks to be the constructor team to beat. IÔÇÖm a tifosi at heart but am not ready to anoint them just yet as the Constructor Champion favorite.

I am really looking forward to Oz and the following races. Sorry Bernie F1 teams and fellow F1 fans; if you want to see on track passing watch WSBK.


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williamsf1.com: Bahrain GP Review

f1sa.com: Indianapolis admits USA Formula 1 Grand Prix return possible

Other Racing News

egrandprix.com: TRUST.EGRANDPRIX.ORG (TEO) >>> Race to Own!

fim-live.com: 2010 FIM Ice Racing World Championship Finals, Assen

asphaltandrubber.com: Hungarian GP in limbo after bank pulls funds

Cosworth.com: Cosworth and Lotus back in the IndyCar Series

Ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell's chequered history of prangs is laid bare as she joins Jeremy Clarkson on the Top Gear sofa for a celebrity interview before a lap of the track in the Suzuki Liana.
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On the Street

BMW S1000RR is King
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Cycle Canada editor Neil Graham got some great footage of the 2010 MV Agusta F4 at its world launch, and spoke with Brand Manager Matt Stutzman about the bike's history and the company's upcoming move into the Canadian market.
Check out cyclecanadaweb.com for Graham's F4 review.
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Go Daddy CEO Bob Parsons & his wife Renee Featured on Ace of Cakes - Life Size Ducati Cake
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knucklebusterin.com: Hints for buying used morotcycles circa 1947

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Running the 1921 Triumph motorcycle recently added to the Pioneer Flight Museum collection.
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motorcycle-usa.com: OHV groups prevail in Montana land use case

FWIW


xkcd.com

:rofl
motorsport.com: USF1 hoping to race in 2011
:rofl

Lie-Gate
As the electorate ponders their choices in the upcoming election write in candidate hopeful Visian revealed he was ÔÇ£in the bagÔÇØ when he missed an opportunity to debate the international issues of the day facing international association.

VisianÔÇÖs, a.k.a. as Ian Schmla;kj or something like that, late entry into the BMW MOA Presidential race already was having troubles growing out from under the shadows of his failed run for the junior position of President of the United States. When I contacted the Whitehouse about this recent revelation the declined comment beyond saying ÔÇÿthe person in question was dropped from the PresidentÔÇÖs list of FaceBook friends and his Twitters were being blocked.

Other concerns had been raised about the spoiled ballot problem and the legendary problems with spelling of the BMW MOA membership.

Originally claiming to be off-line when the debate opportunity occurred and facing an uphill struggle with the memberships spelling abilities; will the revelation that the dark horse write in hopeful is a closet white bread bagger and the resulting and growing Lie-Gate scandal help or end his run for this prestigious position?
:hide


motobastards.com


Bike Cruller

One of the early bikes in my riding history

811494532_Rezrr-L.jpg
 
WSBK et al.

roadracerx.com: Tuesday conversation with Troy Corser

MotoGP

fim-live.com: Capirossi predicts busy test

MotoGP is pluggin its Qatar Test VideoPass

IOMTT


AMA Pro Racing


Formula 1 and 

autosport.com: Sauber poised to request name change
The devil is in the details of the contract and Concorde Agreement. The key line in the article deals with SauberÔÇÖs concern with loosing TV money. When Honda exited and sold the team to Brawn there was a fight over money due the Honda team from 2008 to be paid in 2009. Brawn lost that battle. Sauber has been careful to protect his interests in the team during the entire BMW exit process and to reinforce his argument that this is not a new team but a continuation of an existing team.

planetf1.com: Branson ÔÇô Virgin can do a Red Bull
An interesting glimpse into the mind and plans of Sir Richard

jamesallenonf1.com: Shcumachers race sums up F1ÔÇÖs problem

jamesallenonf1.com: Getting rid of aero in F1, the counterargument


Other Racing News

BMW Motorrad USA Invites GS Owners to Defend U.S. Title at the 2010 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy Challenge

ÔÇó 16.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release

Information from editor: For related images, visit the "Photo" tab and search via keyword: GS Trophy

Selection Process Will Be Held April 29-May 2 during Adventure Riders/GS Challenge at RawHyde Adventures

Woodcliff Lake, NJ  March 16, 2010 BMW Motorrad USA is calling upon all of its dirt-loving enduro riders to help defend the U.S. Team championship in the 2010 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy. The world-famous biennial International GS Trophy returns in November, with three riders selected from each of several countries around the world to compete on new R 1200 GS bikes for victory in a vicious series of off-road competitions and challenges in exotic and faraway South Africa.

Two BMW GS owners and one journalist will be selected from the USA for this once-in-a-lifetime, all expenses paid trip. Their selection will be made during the Adventure Riders/GS Challenge at the RawHyde Adventures facility in Southern California from April 29 ÔÇô May 2. This yearÔÇÖs ÔÇ£Double JeopardyÔÇØ event at RawHyde is now revamped to include two sequences: the Adventure Riders Challenge, open to all enduro riders, and the GS Challenge qualifier from which two BMW riders will be selected to compete in South Africa.

ÔÇ£The competition finalists will not only need strength and endurance, superior riding skills and guts, but they must also be able to navigate their route ahead, pace themselves and collaborate with teammates,ÔÇØ commented Laurence Kuykendall, Community and Communications Manager for BMW Motorrad USA. ÔÇ£It also helps to have a sense of humor under adversity,ÔÇØ Kuykendall added, ÔÇ£because, after all, this is all about fun, isnÔÇÖt it?ÔÇØ

Interested BMW GS riders can learn more about the Adventure Riders Challenge and how they can participate in the competition to ride (and win) in South Africa by visiting
www.adventureriderchallenge.com or emailing info4rawhyde@earthlink.com. Registration forms can be downloaded from: http://www.adventureriderchallenge.com/arcXdbljprdy_applctn.pdf.

In 2008, the high-stakes competition between riders representing five countries took place in the burning sands of Tunisia and was won by Team USA members Brad Hendry (Thornton, CO), Jim Stoddard (Middlegrove, NY), and Jason Adams (Rosendale, NY) along with journalists Jimmy Lewis (Dirt Rider), Ryan Dudek (Cycle World), and photojournalist Jonathan Beck. The GS owners and journalists represented the United States in the 1,900-kilometer desert rally, involving 30 participants from five nations, seeking to demonstrate their skills over challenging terrain on identically prepared BMW F 800 GS motorcycles.

The foreign press is recruiting riders for their nations.

On the Street

BMW released its annual report today. It is available for download from the BMW Group PressClub USA in pdf form.

[ur Statement and Charts by Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of
Management of BMW AG, Annual Accounts Press Conference 2010

Click through for the complete statement

Statement and Charts by Dr. Friedrich Eichiner, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Finance, Annual Accounts Press Conference 2010
Click through for the complete statement text.

ÔÇ£This brings me to the Motorcycles segment. BMW Motorrad fared well despite the very difficult market, gaining market share in 2009. Retail was down 14% year on year to more than 87,000 units. In contrast to BMW, the whole world market for motorcycles shrank by more than 30%.

BMW Motorrad reacted flexibly to this situation. Production was quickly adapted to demand and margins remained stable as a result.

BMW Motorrad increased its share in its seven key markets, namely: the UK, Italy, France, Spain, the USA, Japan and Germany. EBIT generated by the Motorcycles segment declined to 19 million euros.

In 2009, we laid a solid foundation on which to achieve further growth. BMW Motorrad isat the starting gate with numerous new models in the lineup, including: the Enduro, Tourer, Urban, Sport and HP in the spring of 2010ÔÇØ


bmwra.org: Attention dual sport/off road riders:

BMW National Adventure Riding Series 2010
BMW Motorrad USA Posts Strong February Sales
ÔÇó 16.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release

Woodcliff Lake, NJ  March 16, 2010 The U.S. motorcycle market continued to struggle as it declined 36% in February 2010 compared to the same month last year. Against this challenging backdrop, BMW Motorrad USA posted a 52 percent increase in retail sales in the same period.

The spike in February retail sales is largely attributed to the long-awaited availability of the production version of the BMW S 1000 RR Superbike, the most powerful and sophisticated sport bike ever produced. Dealers had confirmed deposits on over 600 bikes and deliveries to customers began in late January and continued through February. Other top-selling models included the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure as well as the popular R 1200 RT.

BMW Motorrad USAÔÇÖs strong February sales continued the companyÔÇÖs industry-leading performance in this difficult market. Despite a U.S. motorcycle market that declined 41 percent and lost nearly 360,000 units last year, BMW motorcycle sales only declined 22 percent. This followed on the heels of 2008 when BMW Motorrad USA was one of only two motorcycle manufacturers to post positive growth.
ÔÇ£Superior products in all segments of the market, a dedicated and expanded dealer network, and attractive financing programs from BMW Financial Services will help keep the positive momentum going in 2010,ÔÇØ commented Mac McMath, BMW Motorrad USA Sales Manager.

HFL: KTM Free ride ÔÇô electric supermoto and enduro coming to Tokyo
jsonline.com: Harley shares hit three month high on takeover rumor
-related-
cnbc.com: Harley-Davidson shares gain on takeover chatter
-related-
marketwatch.com: Harley ÔÇô Davidson shares up on takeover talk

Bikes in the Fast Lane: Thailand ÔÇô Using motorcycles for protest marches

clutchandchrome.com: Harley refused two offers for Buell Motorcycles

motorcycle.in.th: Why blueprinting an engine

caradisiac.com: Airbag Spidi Neck Brace

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xkcd.com

motobastards.com


Bike Cruller

BMW Racing Team Daffix Michelin work on their S1000RR during tire testing at Le Mans

812497455_VFc6Y-M.jpg
 
Excerpts from the 2009 BMW Annual Report related to the Motorcycle segment.

The Motorcycle segment lost sales volume but increased market share.

The US is third in markets behind Germany and Italy but lump Europe together and we are a distant second.

LT lovers take heart. The report comes out and says there will be a new LT six cylinder in the near future. Not dates but it is the first time BMW has mentioned it in one of its reports.

Six cylinders may not be limited only to the LT appears to be the hint in the announcement.

Finally
The Motorcycle segment made money. Not much on a percentage basis but it was profitable in a horrid market.


Pg 14
International motorcycle markets contracted on average by roughly on third in 2009. Despite this difficult environment, we were still able to sell 87,30 BMW motorcycles worldwide (-14.1%) convincingly outperforming the market as a whole.

The Motorcycles segment generated revenues totaling euro 1,069 million in 2009, 13.1% down on the previous year. The difficult market environment in 2009 pushed down EBIT by 68.3% to euro 19 million, with profit before tax falling to euro 11 million (-78.4%)

Pg 18
Motorcycle markets in 2009
Developments on international motorcycle markets in 2009 were largely shaped by the knock-on effects of the international economic and financial crisis. Worldwide motorcycle sales in the 500cc plus segment were down by almost one third (-30.3%) against the previous year. The number sold in Europe fell by 21.9% with all countries registering negative rates. While the decrease in France (-9.1%) and the United Kingdon (-10.3) were relatively moderate volumes in Spain (-55.2%), Italy (-21.7) and Germany (-16.7) were well down on those of the previous year.

The decline in sales in the USA ÔÇô the largest market for motorcycles in the 500cc plus segment ÔÇô was particularly steep at -40.9%. The Japanese market also failed to reach previous figures (-17.1%)ÔÇØ

Page 25

Motorcycle sales down on previous year

The number of BMW motorcycles sold in 2009 fell to 87,306 units worldwide (-14.1%) in a difficult market environment. Despite the adverse conditions, the Motorcycles segment was nevertheless able to improve its position and gain market share on all fronts, reflecting the fact that the drop in sales volume of BMW motorcycles was much less pronounced than the overall contraction of the markets in which we operate. A major contribution to this performance came from the K1300 R, K1300S and the K1300GT models which have been available to customers since February, and from the F800R, on sale since May 2009.

Lower sales volumes registered on most markets

In total 61,178 BMW motorcycles were handed over to customers in Europe in 2009, a decrease of 16.3%. In Germany, currently the largest single market for BMW motorcycles, we were able to maintain market leadership with 15,375 units sold (-17.2%). Sales in France (7,014 units/-14.6%), Italy (13,162/-12.5%) and Spain (6,457 units/-36.4%) were all down on the previous year. In the United Kingdom, however, sales increased by 4.3% to 5,859 units despite a generally contracting market.

The number of motorcycles sold in 2009 fell by 20.9% to 9.191 units in the USA and 6.3% to 2,825 in Japan.

Model range expanded
The expansion of the model range in 2009 helped to cushion the impact of adverse business conditions for the Motorcycles segment. The K1300R, K1300S and K1300GT models were shipped to dealers for the first time in February 2009. The F800R and the special R1200GS, R1200R and R1200Rt models (launched to coincide with the 15th anniversary of four-valve boxer engines) followed in the period from May onwards. The S1000RR (based on the racing version) was launched in December. A technical update of the R1200GS and a model revision of the R1200RT were presented at the International Motorcycle Exhibition (EICMA) in Milan. A BMW motorcycle with a six-cylinder engine ÔÇô Concept 6 ÔÇô was also unveiled for the first time. This concept study shows that a straight six-cylinder engine can be highly dynamic thanks to state-of-the-art design and engineering methods. The K model range will be expanded in the foreseeable future by the addition of the new BMW six-cylinder version. The first series production model will also be an innovative and luxurious BMW touring bike.

BMW motorcycles in 2009 ÔÇô analysis by series
R Series ÔÇô 45.9
F Series ÔÇô 38.4
K Series ÔÇô 15.7

Motorcycle production selectively reduced in response to drop in demand
We also selectively adapted motorcycle production volumes in 2009 to match the sharp decline in demand. In total, 82,631 motorcycles (-20.7%) were manufactured over the course of the year. During the year under report, our Berlin plant celebrated its 40th year as a production site for BMW motorcycles. During this period almost 1.9 million BMW motorcycles came off the production lines. The one millionth BMW motorcycle equipped with ABS left the Spandau plant in summer 2009. Twenty-one years agao we were the first motorcycle manufacturer worldwide to equip motorcycles with ABS anti-locking technology, thus setting an important milestone for active motorcycle safety at the time.

Pg 73
Motorcycle markets in 2010
Despite the first signs of an economic recovery, we do not expect the international motorcycle markets in the 500cc plus class relevant for the BMW Group to make more than a modest recovery in 2010. The world market should settle down at a level slightly higher than that of 2009.

Pg 75
Motorcycle segment
We entered the supersport bikes segment for the first time in December 2009 with the market launch of the S1000RR. We expect this move to create additional impetus for business, helping us to achieve our aim of beating past years sales volume figures in 2010. Revenues and earnings will also improve accordingly.

Pg 76-77
From the Income Statements for Group and Segments
In euro million

Motorcycle segment

Revenues 1,069
Cost of Sales 925
Gross profit 144

Sales and administrative costs -126
Other operating income 2
Other operating expenses -1
Profit/loss before financial result 19

Interest and similar income 3
Interest and similar expense -11
Financial result -8

Profit/loss before tax 11
Income taxes -3
Net profit/loss 8
 
Thursday, March 18

WSBK et al.

speedweek.de: Roland Resch out for Portimao race should be back for Valencia.

motorsport-total.com: Troy Corser would be happy if BMW would improve over the previous year on each circuit

cdnsuperbike.com: New deal for Suzuki in 2010 season

crash.net: Kyalami to leave WSBK calendar

MotoGP

motogp.com: {armac go green with new livery unveiling

motorcyclenews.com: Satellite Ducati boss demands big improvement

asphaltandrubber.com: FB Corse spins rejection

IOMTT

Ducati return to Isle of Man TT

AMA Pro Racing


Formula 1 and 

automot365.com: They just have to get used to it says Prost

autosport.com: Lopez critical of USF1
The fact that he is critical and not suing their ___ off speaks volumes of what a farce USF1 turned out to be.

Talking Tech
f1technical.net: Force India use new sidepod panel

formula1.com: Rear diffuser ÔÇô potential modifications


Other Racing News

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2009 Michelin 2CT Technologie funny advertising / More videos http://www.youtube.com/user... / Many thanks MICHELIN SPAIN

On the Street

de.reuters.com: BMW aims to boost strong profit for 2010

motorcycledaily.com: 2010 BMW S1000RR ÔÇô MD first ride

HFL: Report ÔÇô Harley could have, should have sold Buell

2010 Honda CB1100 tuned by Mugen (Japan) / Many thanks & infos http://www.mugen-power.com/... / See also the CB1100 best video A Day Of Freedom http://www.youtube.com/watc... /
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Bike Cruller

Husqvarna Spain understands how I felt when I got the bike out the other day.

813244445_9qAVj-L.jpg
 
Friday, March 19

WSBK et al.

worldsbk.com: Pitt delighted with BMW Reitwagen progress ÔÇô and ultimate promise

Motorsport.com: Teleconference with Leaon Haslam
Part 1
Part 2

MotoGP

teamtech3.fr: Ben Spies and Colin Edwards light up Qatar night test

motogp.com: Rossi takes control again at day one in Qatar

motogp.com: Spies and Edwards shine in Qatar for Tech3

http://www.fim-live.com/en/media/ne...rand-prix-replacement-of-the-hungarian-grand/

roadracerx.com: Hungarian MotoGP round cancelled ÔÇô replaced with Motorland Aragon, Spain the reserve track.

Formula 1 and 

autospost.com: FIA closes rear diffuser loophole

f1technical.net: Where has the simplicity of the front wing gone?

The logistics of racing on a worldwide schedule can be daunting.
mclaren.com: Land sea and air: our race to race

uk.reuters.com: Monza extends F1 deal until 2016

uk.reuters.com: McLaren buy back bulk of Mercedes shares

uk.reuters.com: McLaren unveil supercar to take on Ferrari

2011-McLaren-MP4-12C-car-walls.jpg


Other Racing News

Dougie Lampkin vs Goodwood
Promo Video for the famous festival
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On the Street
AMA and BMW Motorrad USA Announce Winner of BMW F 800 GS In The 2009 AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series
ÔÇó 18.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release
Woodcliff Lake, NJ  March 18, 2010 Doug Carter, of Eubank, Kentucky, is the first to admit he never wins anything  until now. The avid motorcycle enthusiast and American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) member participated in his first AMA BMW National Adventure Ride in Renfro Valley, Kentucky last fall and entered to win a drawing for a 2010 BMW F 800 GS. Today, he cherishes memories of the ride with its winding back roads, amazing views and challenging off-highway terrain, along with the brand new orange dual-sport motorcycle in his garage.

Carter won the 2010 BMW F 800 GS in a drawing, offered by series sponsor BMW Motorrad USA, which was open to everyone who participated in events that were part of the AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series.

ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve been riding motorcycles since I was five and IÔÇÖve always been a dual-sport/adventure kind of rider,ÔÇØ said the 34-year-old husband and father of two. ÔÇ£I had wanted to get a bigger enduro bike that would allow me to take my wife on some of my off-road adventures. Now, I can do that. For some reason, she trusts me,ÔÇØ chuckled Carter, who admits heÔÇÖs a bit of a thrill seeker.

The small dual-purpose bike that Carter brought to the Renfro Valley Adventure Ride, unfortunately, suffered mechanical issues while he was there. Now, says Carter, heÔÇÖs looking forward to participating in the Slate Creek Adventure Ride in Bybee, Tennessee with the new BMW F 800 GS.

ÔÇ£This time, I can ride to the ride instead of having to put the bike on the back of a pick-up truck,ÔÇØ he adds.

Laurence Kuykendall, Community and Communications Manager for BMW Motorrad USA, said the company is delighted to see Carter ride into a new season on the advanced BMW F 800 GS -- a motorcycle purpose-built for the type of riding featured in the AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series.

ÔÇ£We congratulate Doug on his prize and hope that he enjoys many more AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series events,ÔÇØ Kuykendall said. ÔÇ£IÔÇÖm sure this season will be one of his best ever. There is no better motorcycle for tackling rugged back roads and two-track trails than the incredibly capable F 800 GS.ÔÇØ

Riding motorcycles is a family affair for the Carter family, whose home is situated on 25 acres in rural south central Kentucky.

ÔÇ£My seven and nine-year-old boys have dirt bikes and we enjoy riding together on our property and the hundred or more acres adjoining our property,ÔÇØ said Carter. ÔÇ£I grew up riding mini bikes and all-terrain vehicles before starting a family. Now, I just enjoy easy off-road riding,ÔÇØ he said.

Events on the AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series are designed for precisely the type of riding that Carter enjoys. For a reasonable entry fee, participants can ride hundreds of miles of trails and back roads in some of the most breathtaking areas of the United States, all supplemented by the local knowledge of long-time clubs and riders.
From the competition-oriented G 450 X to the versatile R 1200 GS Adventure, BMW offers one of the most diverse, most-capable lines of motorcycles ever built. The F 800 GS won by Carter is one of BMW MotorradÔÇÖs latest additions, and with its lightweight design and eye-opening power, it has achieved new heights of off-road capability for the GS line. More information about BMW motorcycles can be found at www.bmwmotorcycles.com and on the entire GS lifestyle including off-road training, events and travel around the world at www.xplorgs.com.

The 2010 AMA BMW National Adventure Riding Series, which will award another BMW adventure motorcycle to a lucky rider, kicks off on April 17-18 in Bybee, Tenn. The events ÔÇô open to AMA members ÔÇô are scheduled in Alaska, California, Ohio, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Washington, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Alabama and Arizona. For the full schedule, see the Riding section of www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com at www.amadirectlink.com/roadride/offroad.

Interested participants can join the AMA online or at the Adventure Riding Series events. Members who sign up for auto-renewal or a three-year membership get free AMA Roadside Assistance for their motorcycles, plus all other vehicles, including motorhomes and trailers. Select Join/Renew in the Membership menu of the AMA website and follow the simple steps.

2010 red dot awards: The BMW Group wins six prizes for outstanding product design.
ÔÇó 18.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release
Munich. The presentation of the red dot award 2010 once again provides impressive confirmation of the outstanding quality of BMW Group design. Six current models of the BMW Group will receive the internationally renowned award this year, with the new Rolls-Royce Ghost winning the special ÔÇ£red dot: best of the bestÔÇØ award for the very highest level of design quality in the category Automobiles, Transport and Caravans. Other BMW Group models to be awarded the red dot as a mark of outstanding design are the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, the BMW X1 and the motorcycle model BMW F 800 R. There were also honourable mentions from the international jury of experts for the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the motorcycle model BMW S 1000 RR. The awards will be presented at the gala held at the Aalto Theatre in Essen on July 5th 2010.
The red dot award is one of the most important awards in the world for product design. It was first awarded in 1955 and recognises outstanding design work in a wide range of categories including not only automobiles, architecture, household and home electronics but also fashion, life science and medicine. This year the jury, made up of international design experts, rated 4252 products from 57 nations. Their assessment is based on 17 criteria ranging from degree of innovation to functionality and ecological compatibility. In the category automobile, transport and caravan the jury issued 24 red dot awards this year - three of the award winners received the special ÔÇ£best of the bestÔÇØ rating.
This highest red dot seal of quality is given for recognition of unusually high-quality and groundbreaking design. The award-winning Rolls-Royce Ghost is an automobile whose unique character is expressed by an exclusive, unmistakable appearance. It is a symbol of clarity whose design reinterprets the classic values of the brand in a modern style for the 21st century. Its flowing lines reflect the dynamic performance of the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever built. Large spaces which cover the entire body and are structured by horizontal lines and highlight the solid, luxurious and supreme character of the vehicle.

An authentic visualisation of the vehicleÔÇÖs properties is also provided by the design of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. Charismatic presence and stylish elegance in its shaping reflect the sedanÔÇÖs uncompromising premium quality and its high level of driving comfort. The carÔÇÖs sporty properties are reflected in dynamic lines and an athletic overall impression. What is more the high-quality aesthetic appeal of the BMW 5 Series Sedan, now also a 2010 red dot award winner, shows perfectly balanced proportions and precisely finished details.
The BMW X1 is distinct and yet characteristic of the brand. This applies both to its driving properties and its visual appearance, which has likewise been awarded a red dot award in 2010. The BMW X1 combines thrilling agility, versatile sporty flair and modern functionality: for the first time it is possible to savour the unique driving pleasure of a BMW X model in a vehicle of the premium compact segment. The BMW X1's highly distinct appearance is based on its elongated lines, giving it a look which conveys self-assured elegance. The characteristic design features of the BMW X1 include a powerfully shaped, long engine compartment lid, a striking upright BMW kidney grille, broadly flared wheel arches, short overhangs, a long wheelbase, an elaborately modulated rear and the flat standing rear window. The front, side and rear sections are seamlessly joined, with striking lines creating flowing connections between the body elements.

Striking design.

With the red dot award 2010 for the BMW F 800 R, BMW Motorrad likewise continues its successful series of entries in renowned design competitions. The medium-category naked bike launched in the spring of 2009 brings the design concept of the large 4-cylinder roadsters (K 1300 R) to a new segment. A sporty touch and high-quality details determine the character of this model. The outstanding quality of the design also extends to the optionally available accessory components such as a windshield, a pillion passenger seat cover, radiator trim panels and an engine spoiler.

The motorcycle model BMW S 1000 RR is characterised by impressive riding qualities and a striking design. The innovative supersports bike, which received an honourable mention at the red dot awards 2010, has a design which is typified by a short, low front section and a high, compact rear and which conveys a striking visual lightness. The asymmetrical headlamps and side trim elements as well as the visually separated front section - the so-called ÔÇ£split faceÔÇØ - are characteristic BMW Motorrad design elements which are reinterpreted here. The fact that the seating position is focused towards the front wheel indicates that the BMW S 1000 RR is entirely geared towards the rider and towards sporty use.

The second honourable mention at the 2010 red dot awards goes to the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo. This completely new vehicle concept combines essential features of a prestigious sedan, a modern Sports Activity Vehicle and a classic Gran Turismo, impressively implemented by means of innovative design solutions. The diverse qualities of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo in the areas of dynamic performance, space comfort and versatility are reflected in the characteristic BMW proportions, the four doors with frameless windows, a coup?®-like flowing roof line and the dual-section rear opening.


Unique visual appearance.
The unique quality of BMW Group design is based on a design philosophy which runs across all brands, enabling the character of each brand and each model to be accurately gauged so that the individual qualities of each vehicle are precisely reflected in its design. In this way, vehicles are created which individually interpret characteristic brand design features and effectively express their model-specific qualities through their visual appearance. The resulting design quality gives rise to unique, unmistakable and fascinating products across all vehicle segments.

It is for this reason that a remarkably high number of new products of the BMW Group brands have been listed as red dot award winners for many years now. Last year they included the new BMW 7 Series, the new BMW Z4 and the motorcycle models BMW K 1300 S and BMW K 1300 R, while in the previous year the BMW 3 Series Convertible and the BMW G 450 X won the special award ÔÇ£red dot: best of the bestÔÇØ. In addition, the BMW X5, the BMW 1 Series Coup?®, the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coup?® and the BMW HP2 Sport won the red dot award for outstanding design quality in 2008.

xkcd.com

motobastards.com


Bike Cruller

813946204_tqobE-M.jpg
 
Saturday, March 20

WSBK et al.

roadracerx.com: MMP accepting wildcard applications for World SBK

MotoGP

uk.reuters.com: Stoner strikes back in final MotoGP test

motogp.com: late falls fail to dampen spirits of Spies and Edwards

Pos Rider Team Session 1 Session 2 Prev. Gap Lead. Gap
1 Casey Stoner Ducati Marlboro Team 1:55.717 1:55.353 - -
2 Valentino Rossi Fiat Yamaha Team 1:55.402 1:55.860 +0.049 +0.049
3 Andrea Dovizioso Repsol Honda Team 1:56.811 1:55.879 +0.477 +0.526
4 Ben Spies Monster Yamaha Tech 3 1:55.954 1:56.779 +0.075 +0.601
5 Nicky Hayden Ducati Marlboro Team 1:56.855 1:56.115 +0.161 +0.762
6 Loris Capirossi Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 1:57.099 1:56.195 +0.080 +0.842
7 Jorge Lorenzo Fiat Yamaha Team 1:56.838 1:56.504 +0.309 +1.151
8 Randy De Puniet LCR Honda MotoGP 1:56.588 1:56.504 - +1.151
9 Colin Edwards Monster Yamaha Tech 3 1:56.540 1:56.722 +0.036 +1.187
10 Mika Kallio Pramac Racing Team 1:56.923 1:56.767 +0.227 +1.414
11 Aleix Espargaro Pramac Racing Team 1:57.898 1:56.897 +0.130 +1.544
12 Alvaro Bautista Rizla Suzuki MotoGP 1:57.960 1:56.898 +0.001 +1.545
13 Dani Pedrosa Repsol Honda Team 1:57.047 1:56.935 +0.037 +1.582
14 Marco Melandri San Carlo Honda Gresini 1:57.605 1:57.222 +0.287 +1.869
15 Hector Barbera Aspar Team 1:57.822 1:57.223 +0.001 +1.870
16 Hiroshi Aoyama Interwetten-Honda MotoGP 1:57.888 1:57.251 +0.028 +1.898
17 Marco Simoncelli San Carlo Honda Gresini 1:57.891 1:57.379 +0.128 +2.026

From: motogp.com
[i[Spies' best lap of 1ÔÇÖ55.954 from the opening night was still good enough to secure him a top five place on the overall timesheets and boost his confidence ahead of his much-anticipated debut for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team next month.
Both Edwards and Spies escaped injury in identical crashes at Turn Two tonight[/i]


motorcyclenews.com: FB Corse to enter Jerez MotoGP

IOMTT


AMA Pro Racing

Motorcycle Veteran Jeff Ward Joins AMA Pro Racing
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 19, 2010) - Motorcycle racing legend Jeff Ward will bring his considerable amount of racing and career experience to AMA Pro Racing as rider liaison and advisor. Ward has nine AMA Pro Racing Championships in Motocross, Supercross and Supermoto. He also has a number of other significant motorcycle wins and achievements as well as an impressive auto racing resume that includes a Ganassi Indy Car win, Rookie of the Year at the 1997 Indianapolis 500 and a second place finish in that iconic event in 1999. Jeff is also in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.

Among other responsibilities, Jeff will be the rider liaison and will fully engage with AMA Pro Racing's riders on the many issues that are important to or may cause concern from the rider's standpoint. "Jeff has the perspective of an experienced, champion rider and can understand the concerns and questions that only someone who has experienced it from behind the handlebars would truly understand," said AMA Pro Racing COO David Atlas. "And having Jeff represent that part of our sport and be one of our key advisors will further our efforts to be as available and responsive to our riders and teams as we can. From the time he was a child and was featured doing wheelies in the classic motorcycle movie 'On Any Sunday', Jeff has devoted his entire sports life to winning and he is now cultivating his own children's successful motorcycle competition careers. We felt that the spectrum of Wardy's experience, his down to earth sincerity and unassuming nature could be very helpful to many in our paddock."

Joining AMA Pro Racing Race Director David McGrath, who also has experience as a rider in the sport, Jeff and David McGrath provide AMA Pro Racing with a large baseline of firsthand racer experience that will greatly benefit the riders in AMA Pro Racing.

"I'm delighted to be joining the AMA Pro Racing series," said Ward, "I personally know many of the riders and am looking forward to helping them have a positive influence in the future direction of the sport and the way in which they plan and pursue their training, successful strategies and careers."

Jeff will begin his duties at the upcoming March 26-28th Auto Club Speedway AMA Pro Road Racing event in Fontana, CA and will be a very approachable presence in the pits and paddock at the AMA Pro Road Racing events in 2010. Ward will also advise AMA Pro Racing on motocross and flat track rider matters which it sanctions too, as well as assist AMA Pro Racing with its relations with the motorcycle manufacturers and parts suppliers.
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines. Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

-10-164-
For additional information contact:
AMA Pro Racing Communications, (386) 492-1014, communications@amaproracing.com





Formula 1 and 

fia.com: Press Release

19/03/2010
FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The FIA has decided to open a new selection process to identify a candidate team to fill any vacancy that may exist in the FIA Formula One World Championship at the start of the 2011 season. The FIA may also identify one or more possible ÔÇÿreserveÔÇÖ entrants to fill such vacancies ÔǪ[more

The text is wonderfully vague leaving all sorts of wiggle room and room for speculation. The list of possible applicants includes Stephan GP Prodrive Lola a possible reapplication by USF1 and others. Despite the promise of a decision by June or July we will know who is on the grid at the first race of the 2010 season at the end of qualifying for that race and not one minute before.

autosport.com: Renault allowed to make engine changes

mclaren.com: Australian Grand Prix preview

attwilliams.com: Melbourne preview video

Mercedes-gp.com: Australian GP previw

Other Racing News

12 Hours of Sebring Qualifying Results
ÔÇó 19.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release
Sebring, Fla  March 19, 2010 The BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team completed an intense week of pre-race preparations and practice with a bittersweet qualifying result for the 58th running of the American Le Mans Series 12 Hours of Sebring. The No. 92 and No. 90 BMW M3 GT Coupes will start from 7th and 13th on the GT2 grid[1], respectively.

All week, the compelling pace from both BMW Coupes brought energy and excitement to the team, and an inspirational drive by pilot Dirk Mϋller placed the No. 90 M3 into the provisional pole position. However, a mechanical issue caused a technical infraction and dashed the teamÔÇÖs chances of a front row start. The mechanical issue which caused the infraction has been identified and corrected. Now, Mϋller and co-drivers Joey Hand and Andy Priaulx, along with the No. 90 team, face the challenging mission of starting from the rear of the class at the 12 Hour classic.

Bill Auberlen, backed by co-drivers Tommy Milner and Dirk Werner, will start the No. 92 BMW M3 from the 7th spot on the GT2 grid, after Auberlen set a qualifying lap of 2:01.922 minutes around the 3.7-mile Sebring International Raceway, 0.772 seconds from the eventual polesitter. Auberlen was one of eight GT2 drivers to qualify faster than last yearÔÇÖs pole time.

About BMW Rahal Letterman Racing:
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW GroupÔÇÖs global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 143 BMW motorcycle retailers, 91 MINI passenger car dealers, and 31 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW GroupÔÇÖs sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

BMWÔÇÖs partner, Rahal Letterman Racing, based in Hilliard, Ohio and co-owned by three-time IndyCar Champion and 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner Bobby Rahal and CBS LATE SHOW host David Letterman, has been competing for more than a decade compiling 20 victories, 30 poles and one series championship (Bobby Rahal in 1992 in CART) and an Indianapolis 500 championship (Buddy Rice in 2004). In 2008 Rahal Letterman Racing again won Rookie-of-the-Year honors at the Indianapolis 500 and partnered with Andersen Racing to run two entries in the Indy Pro Series. In 2009 the team joined BMW of North America to campaign the BMW M3 as BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team in the American Le Mans Series.


On the Street

BMW keeps pulling out the promotional card this time with the Black Eyed Peas using the S1000RR as a story line prop in a recent video production
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thesun.co.uk: BMW R1200Rt facelift spot on
While some celebrities are confused, BMW obviously know the score. Facelifts are about enhancing. Not reinventing. [/img]
definitely.jpg


FWIW


xkcd.com

motobastards.com

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Bike Cruller

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On the black eye peas video - thanks by the way - check minute 10:05 and you will see the bike duly protected from being laid down.
 
Sunday, March 21

WSBK et al.

roadracerx.com: Team speak ÔÇô World SBK Portugal preview

How much difference is there between a WSBK S1000RR and the street bike? The answer may vary rider to rider and team to team but at Reitwagen not that much at this time. According to an interview with Andrew Pitt who scored points in his first race for the BMW satellite team; "Having a few points is a bonus, because I do not think people understand how our bike is currently stock model. We are only beginning. But this weekend was very encouraging,"

MotoGP

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IOMTT


AMA Pro Racing


Formula 1 and 

hispaniaf1team.com: HRT F1 Team confident about building on F1 debut in Australia

uk.reuters.com: Red Bull are ridiculously fast, says Hamilton

motorsport.com: Mercedes saying no to engine equalization

uk.reuters.com: F1 debut toughter than expected Chandhok

Other Racing News

astonmartin.com: Carroll Shelby reflects on his time with Aston Martin

porsche.com: Porsche Presents 918 Spyder High-Performance Concept Sports Car in Geneva

Mid-Race update - ALMS Sebring 2010
ÔÇó 20.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release
Sebring , Fla.  March 20, 2010 The BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team BMW M3 GTs stand third and fourth in the GT2 class just past the 6-hour mark of the 58th annual 12 Hours of Sebring. With some 700 miles around Sebring International Raceway complete the team has delivered an excellent performance with the No. 92 M3 GT running second for about four-and-one-half-hours.

Starting from seventh on the grid, the No. 92 BMW M3 GT of Bill Auberlen, Tommy Milner and Dirk Werner has raced in second position for nearly five hours. Werner took the 10:30 a.m. start, cracking the top-five before handing off to Auberlen just prior to the one hour mark. The experienced Californian drove an excellent second stint to move into second before handing off to Milner. With three hours complete, Werner re-entered the race to drive the teamÔÇÖs first double-stint of the race. Auberlen drove the fifth hour, pitting for Milner almost precisely at the halfway point.

The No. 90 BMW M3 GT of Joey Hand, Andy Priaulx and Dirk M??ller was forced to start from the pit lane after an off by Hand in morning warm-up. M??ller took the green flag and quickly carved through the field to deliver the No. 90 machine to Hand in fourth. One hour later, Andy Priaulx took the wheel and retained control of the fourth spot. Priaulx pitted just past the three-hour mark for fuel and new Dunlop tires, remaining in car for a second stint. M??ller followed, also driving a double-stint. The raceÔÇÖs second caution period placed the pace car in between M??ller and the overall leader, costing valuable track position when Hand rejoined the race.
New on YouTube: Bill Auberlen's 6-Hour Update.
New on YouTube: Dirk Mϋller's 6-Hour Update


BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team Scores Double Sebring Podium
ÔÇó 21.03.2010
ÔÇó Press Release
Sebring , Fla.  March 21, 2010, 1:00 AM Eastern Time The BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team proved JOY IS BMW with a double-podium class finish for the BMW M3 GT Coupes in yesterdays 58th annual American Le Mans Series 12 Hours of Sebring.

Bill Auberlen, Tommy Milner and Dirk Werner co-drove the No. 92 BMW M3 GT to a second place finish (seventh overall), finishing 330 laps of the 3.7-mile, 17-turn Sebring International Raceway.

The No. 90 M3 GT co-driven by Joey Hand, Dirk M??ller and Andy Priaulx completed the same number of laps to finish third (eighth overall). Hand set a new GT class race record with a 2:00.985 minute lap (lap 185) during his final stint.

Both M3s ran flawlessly for the entire race, turning some of the fastest laps in the closing hours of the race as they chased the class leader which had gained a substantial lead during the raceÔÇÖs second full-course caution period.
Quotations.
Bobby Rahal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MO9AYqMom00

Dirk Mϋller, No. 90: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tF92_JNCKxQ

Joey Hand, No. 90: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=im1n2bWIWJw

Andy Priaulx, No. 90: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1RUmQer9D8

Bill Auberlen, No. 92: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omva-FcwX_E

Tommy Milner, No. 92: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hxGbvdDn9g

Dirk Werner, No. 92: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omva-FcwX_E

The Long Beach Grand Prix, the second round of the 2010 American Le Mans Series, will be held April 16-17.


On the Street

cyrilhuze.blog.com: Harley-Davidson withdrawing from North Myrtle Beach rally

motorcyclenews.com: Suzukoi GSX 1250FA first ride ÔÇô ÔÇÿthe bargin tourer of the yearÔÇÖ
No report of this coming to the US and challenging BMW for this marketÔÇÖs touring dollars. For now Suzuki seems willing to challenge H-DÔÇÖs in that segment.

clockfornightowl01.jpg

yankodesign.com

FWIW


xkcd.com

motobastards.com


Bike Cruller

A selection of images collected over the week.

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Yes we really looked like that at one time

but more important than looks is we dreamed like this

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and like this

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815343328_58ez8-M.jpg


815343365_T2Hbk-L.jpg


815343390_P7TQz-M.jpg


815343384_uYV8L-M.jpg


815343373_MSYoQ-O.jpg


Till next time

815343171_pvBpt-M.jpg
 
Saturday, March 27

WSBK et al.

Saturday Second Qualifying Session Results

Jakub Smrz (Pata B&G Racing Ducati) and Max Biaggi (Aprilia Alitalia) both set a best lap time in final qualifying of 1'43.003 to share the top spot going into Superpole, with Michel Fabrizio (Ducati Xerox), Leon Haslam (Alstare Suzuki) and Jonathan Rea (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) all setting laps within the 1'43.0 range, five riders covered by only 0.050 seconds!

1 96 Smrz J. (CZE) Ducati 1098R 1'43.003
2 3 Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1'43.003
3 84 Fabrizio M. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1'43.010
4 91 Haslam L. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'43.037
5 65 Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 1'43.053
6 7 Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 1'43.115
7 52 Toseland J. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R1 1'43.320
8 41 Haga N. (JPN) Ducati 1098R 1'43.418
9 66 Sykes T. (GBR) Kawasaki ZX 10R 1'43.485
10 11 Corser T. (AUS) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.491
11 67 Byrne S. (GBR) Ducati 1098R 1'43.588
12 50 Guintoli S. (FRA) Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'43.589
13 111 Xaus R. (ESP) BMW S1000 RR 1'43.589
14 35 Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R1 1'43.616
15 2 Camier L. (GBR) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 1'44.037
16 57 Lanzi L. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1'44.212
17 99 Scassa L. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1'44.249
18 76 Neukirchner M. (GER) Honda CBR1000RR 1'44.272
19 88 Pitt A. (AUS) BMW S1000 RR 1'44.553
20 49 Tamada M. (JPN) BMW S1000 RR 1'45.044
21 32 Morais S. (RSA) Honda CBR1000RR 1'45.520
22 15 Baiocco M. (ITA) Kawasaki ZX 10R 1'45.610
23 31 Iannuzzo V. (ITA) Honda CBR1000RR 1'45.795
24 95 Hayden R. (USA) Kawasaki ZX 10R 1'45.799


Friday-
worldsbk.com: Haslam leads after one day in the sun
BMW has a strong day in Superstock opener

troycorser.com: Troy satisfied with first day


Superpole starts 15:00 GMT
MotoGP


Formula 1 and 

Australian GP Press Conference 3
27/03/2010
2010 AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX
SATURDAY POST-QUALIFYING PRESS CONFERENCE ÔÇô March 27, 2010

DRIVERS:

1. Sebastian VETTEL (Red Bull), 1m23.919s
2. Mark WEBBER (Red Bull), 1m24.035s
3. Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari), 1m24.111s

QUALIFYING
Classifications
Lap Times
Maximum Speeds
Sector Times
Tap Speeds

bbc.co.uk: McLaren suspect Red Bull of trick ride-height system
 
SuperPole Final - Portimao

Row 2 for Corser as speed does not convert into lap time needed to get to row 1.
Hole shot anyone?!

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