Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

Great post, they all are! But either no one has a b'day or the link isn't woking any more.

fixed

Thursday, 24 February

Thursday, 24 February

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

BMW Group PressClub Sport: BMW Motorrad Motorsport ÔÇô WSBK ÔÇô Media Guide 2011
A downloadable PDF of the media guide is available to anyone who is interested in BMWÔÇÖs WSBK campaign. It is a 60 page document. I have not worked my way through it yet but it will be a must have for all fans.

foxsport.com.au: Kevin MageeÔÇÖs Ultimate guide to World Superbike 2011

Twitter: realleonhaslam: @McWill99 you know the score lots of work to do I loss the front both times on brakes Siberia and over lucky heights down into MG sorry boys
Related ÔÇô bikesportnews.com: Upbeat Haslam shakes off double testing crash

ninemsn.com.au: Troy Corser in World Superbike chase

ducati.com: Carlos Checa (Altea Racing) in a determined state of mind ahead of Round 1 at Phillip Island

: Rea looking good for race return.

[url= http://www.worldsbk.com/en/news/latest-news/5118-2011-wsbk-teams-aprilia-alitalia.html]worldsbk.com: 2011 WSBK teams ÔÇô Aprilia Alitalia

FAN POLL: crash.net: Who will iwn the 2011 World Superbike title?

MotoGP

fim-live.com: Repsol Honda trio dominate day two timesheet in Malaysia

hondaproracing.com: Satisfaction after hard work on second day in Sepang
suzuki-racing.com: Bautista shows good potential on Sepang day 2

Yamaha-racing.com: Strong performance for Spies and Lorenzo on Day Two

eurosport.yahoo.com: Spies sets fast pace at Sepang

gpone.com: Stoner ÔÇô ÔÇ£ I donÔÇÖt like the forksÔÇØ

thestar.com.my: Stoner gets into the grove with his new team

Formula 1

bbc.co.uk: Teams will cope with Bahrain call off ÔÇô Mark Webber

The Telegraph has a story on F1 management picking up the tab for the cancelled Bahrain GP. Will they off set the reported $40 million tab by running the race at the end of the season as suggested by the Arab Emerites? Decisive as ever, Bernie does not know.


Other Racing

sxsnews.com: Team Husqvarna readies for racing

Bikes in the Fast Lane: Help save the Nurburgring Circuit.
Why ÔÇ£Save the NurburgringÔÇØ?
Sing the Petition

On the Street

motorccycle-usa.com: 2011 Husqvarna TXC449 first ride

abc.net.au: [AU] Police alarmed at motorcycle death trend

These are always fun.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vQmjgqlzlSs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Of dubious value but fun none the less.

Once you build it you have to ride the bloody thing, donÔÇÖt you.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-w2qBUyNPTA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PaUVwN2VTtw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

dealernews.com: Harley-Davidson, union reps reach tentative Kansas City contract

The Mothership

bmw-motorrad.com: The BMW RRace Camp - taking things to the next level


From a link on BMW MotorradÔÇÖs Twitter: motorcycle.com: BMW Maxi scooters confirmed for EICMA

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yDo2XOyE-LI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

The Chicane Blog pairs two of the best YouTube videos if you are a F1 fan. The second is a two minute Shell ad that ran in Europe featuring generations of Ferrari racing machines morphing one to the next as the car heads to the pit stop. The second is a video of clips from the filming sessions that went into making the advertisement.

Reference::

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

MSF Question of the Day: ]QOD[/url]

Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

Italian fans of the Roundel (or others who are quick and have money) will have a shot at one of 50 Special Edition S 1000 RR bikes to be built honoring Ayrton BadoviniÔÇÖs WSS100 FIM Cup victory in 2010.



BMW PressClub Italy
(Translation by Bing Translator)

BMW S 1000 RR "Superstock Limited Edition". Available from March in only 50 copies numbered to celebrate the victory of the Superstock FIM Cup 2010
23.02.2011 press releases

The fantastic Superstock FIM Cup victory for Ayrton Badovini 2010 is celebrated with a Special Edition, numbered, the BMW S 1000 RR.

The BMW Motorrad bike House will be available in only 50 copies, with a livery and an exclusive Interior. Available from March from BMW Motorrad Italy.

San Donato Milanese. The "BMW S 1000 RR Superstock Limited Edition" will be realized by BMW Motorrad Italy exclusively for the Italian market to celebrate the great victory of the Superstock FIM CUP 2010 by Ayrton Badovini.

Ayrton in 2010 has won nine victories and 1 second place out of ten races onboard the BMW S 1000 RR winning, with different races to advance both the pilots and builders title. The BMW S 1000 RR Superstock Limited Edition will be held in just 50 numbered copies, the number will be shown on the type plate located on the reservoir of the bike. The bike will have an exclusive livery "Superstock Champion 2010" on which campegger?á the number 86, race number for Ayrton Badovini.

The bike will also be arranged with:
ID Badge on the tank serial number from 01 to 50/50/50;
Logo BMW Motorrad Italy Superstock Teams on the tank;
Full kit carbon parts HP special parts;
Rear swingarm Cover carbon;
HP special parts adjustable levers;
Adjustable rearsets HP special parts;
LED direction indicators;
Akrapovic Terminal (street legal) with support of carbon.

The bike will be delivered under construction single-seater, with kit passenger (seat and footpegs) supplied with your bike. The S 1000 RR Superstock Limited Edition is of course built in Berlin, while the special equipment will be completed in Italy at the structure of the BMW Motorrad Italy SBK Team.

The BMW S 1000 RR Superstock Limited Edition will be available from March at a price of Ôé¼ 27,000 turnkey, including first coupon and is sortable from BMW Motorrad Italy.



















At Ôé¼27,000 (thatÔÇÖs $37,186 in Fly-Over-Land money) this is not a BMW offering form me. If I am ever in the market for a S 1000 RR it will be on the used market and I doubt this limited edition will ever make it there at a price I can afford. Heck I need to save up for the spring parts (Tires, tune up supplies etc) I need to get the Roadster on the road this spring. Although with all that carbon fiber and power it is probably light enough and fast enough that if I had enough fuel I could skip/ ride across the Atlantic and not have to pay for shipping.

Phillip Island WSBK - Friday Free Practice Times

Superbike - Results Free Practice 1st Session
Phillip Island, 25-26-27 February 2011
No. Rider Nat Team Bike Time Gap Rel. Laps Avg
Speed
Max
1 7 C. CHECA ESP Althea Racing Ducati 1098R 1'31.647 24 174,605 307,1

2 4 J. REA GBR Castrol Honda Honda CBR1000RR 1'32.272 0.625 0.625 23 173,422 312,5

3 17 J. LASCORZ ESP Kawasaki Racing Team Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'32.352 0.705 0.080 21 173,272 309,8

4 91 L. HASLAM GBR BMW Motorrad Motorsport BMW S1000 RR 1'32.360 0.713 0.008 22 173,257 308,95 50

S. GUINTOLI FRA Team Effenbert-Liberty Racing Ducati 1098R 1'32.398 0.751 0.038 12 173,186 304,5

6 1 M. BIAGGI ITA Aprilia Alitalia Racing Team Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'32.428 0.781 0.030 26 173,129 316,1

7 96 J. SMRZ CZE Team Effenbert-Liberty Racing Ducati 1098R 1'32.444 0.797 0.016 24 173,099 305,4

8 33 M. MELANDRI ITA Yamaha World Superbike Team Yamaha YZF R1 1'32.507 0.860 0.063 20 172,982 309,8

9 84 M. FABRIZIO ITA Team Suzuki Alstare Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'32.611 0.964 0.104 24 172,787 305,4

10 58 E. LAVERTY IRL Yamaha World Superbike Team Yamaha YZF R1 1'32.656 1.009 0.045 20 172,703 312,5

11 66 T. SYKES GBR Kawasaki Racing Team Superbike Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'33.033 1.386 0.377 23 172,003 302,8

12 41 N. HAGA JPN PATA Racing Team Aprilia Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'33.113 1.466 0.080 20 171,856 308,0

13 111 R. XAUS ESP Castrol Honda Honda CBR1000RR 1'33.194 1.547 0.081 23 171,706 299,5

14 86 A. BADOVINI ITA BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team BMW S1000 RR 1'33.229 1.582 0.035 22 171,642 304,5

15 52 J. TOSELAND GBR BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team BMW S1000 RR 1'33.441 1.794 0.212 24 171,252 310,71

16 12 J. WATERS AUS Yoshimura Suzuki Racing Team Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'33.446 1.799 0.005 22 171,243 302,0

17 121 M. BERGER FRA Supersonic Racing Team Ducati 1098R 1'33.474 1.827 0.028 25 171,192 299,5

18 2 L. CAMIER GBR Aprilia Alitalia Racing Team Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'33.709 2.062 0.235 21 170,763 311,6

19 8 M. AITCHISON AUS Team Pedercini Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'34.014 2.367 0.305 23 170,209 303,7

20 44 R. ROLFO ITA Team Pedercini Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'34.095 2.448 0.081 21 170,062 301,1

21 67 B. STARING AUS Team Pedercini Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'34.391 2.744 0.296 19 169,529 300,3

22 11 T. CORSER AUS BMW Motorrad Motorsport BMW S1000 RR 1'34.913 3.266 0.522 13 168,597 308,0Qualifying Lap Time (107% Of 1'31.647): 1'38.063

Phillip Island Friday Qualifying

Checa dominates Friday qualifying earning him the provisional pole.

Three BMW riders advance to Saturday Superpole

1 7 CHECA C ESP Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'31.577 26

2 50 GUINTOLI S FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'31.850 0.273 298,6 18

3 58 LAVERTY E IRL Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'31.969 0.392 22

4 1 BIAGGI M ITA Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'32.009 0.432 26

5 96 SMRZ J CZE Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'32.066 0.489 24

6 91 HASLAM L GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'32.082 0.505 23

7 84 FABRIZIO M ITA Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'32.108 0.531 305,4 25

8 17 LASCORZ J ESP Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'32.163 0.586 297,8 19

9 4 REA J GBR Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'32.424 0.847 307,1 14

10 12 WATERS J AUS Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'32.690 1.113 24

11 11 CORSER T AUS BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'32.699 1.122 23

12 33 MELANDRI M ITA Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'32.700 1.123 20

13 66 SYKES T GBR Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'32.705 1.128 23

14 41 HAGA N JPN Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'33.058 1.481 25

15 52 TOSELAND J GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'33.074 1.497 300,3 18

16 2 CAMIER L GBR Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'33.084 1.507 297,8 21


Not Advancing to Superpole

17 67 STARING B AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.130 1.553 26

18 121 BERGER M FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'33.176 1.599 22

19 111 XAUS R ESP Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'33.411 1.834 21

20 86 BADOVINI A ITA BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'33.598 2.021 302,0 18

21 8 AITCHISON M AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.788 2.211 296,2 22

22 44 ROLFO R ITA Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.864 2.287 290,6 19

This year only the first 16 riders advance to Saturday Superpole. Last year's format would have allowed Badovini to advance this year he will start in P20 on the grid.

Fabrizio was listed as having crashed when the hour long session ended. No news on how seriously or his condition.

Friday, 25 February

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

Worlsbk.com: 2011 World Superbike underway this weekend

moto.it: Max Biaggia and Aprilia ready to defend world title double

The Champs ride will sport the No. 1 won last season



Biaggi had the option of retaining his number 3 plate or using the number 1 plate.

The BMW Motorrad Italia SBK team debut in World Superbike. On completion of the test in front of 21-22 February at the start the first race weekend.

24.02.2011
Press Release

Phillip Island (Aus), February 24th 2011 - Next Sunday at Phillip Island (Australia) will off the 2011 edition of the World Superbike Championship. In the grid there will also be the BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike team after winning the Superstock 2010 FIM Cup, will face this year, the highest category of the derived series, as well as defending the title won STK.

Team drivers will be James Toseland and Ayrton Badovini that are the protagonists of the two days of collective testing Infront held next Monday and Tuesday always on the Australian circuit.

James has covered 120 laps setting the fastest lap of the Monday 1'33 "829 (17th), while on Tuesday set a 1'32" 880 (15th). Ayrton, his part on Monday turned in 1'34 "686 (-20) and Tuesday in 1'33 "233 (17th) for a total of 108 laps.

From tomorrow, Friday, the BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike team will be committed in the first qualifying session for the race that will kick off Sunday at 12 am local time (2 am in Italy).
Toseland at Phillip Island in the recent past has gone to the podium in both the 2006 and in 2007, winning the second race 2 years. In 2010 his Superbike's return, however, made a withdrawal and a tenth place. Great desire for redemption for English.

Badovini, however, after the victory in the FIM Superstock Cup 2010 (9 wins from 10 races), he returned to Superbikes. In Australia Ayrton made a withdrawal and 21 th place in 2008 and a fall in the tests of 2009.

Serafino Foti, sporting director of BMW Motorrad Superbike Italy team said: "I'm quite satisfied with how the test went because at each exit we made small steps forward. From here will improve more and more complex, but we hope to make another small steps over the weekend. Our goal is to finish all two races. Also depend very much on the weather for the week end provide a significant heat which may change the values in the field of all. We know that we are ready to work to collect as much information as possible, and improving our current technical condition. "

James Toseland said: "It 's important to have two days of test time with basically good because it has allowed me and team to understand the bike. Equally useful was able to prove in the same conditions as the official team that remains a reference for us, especially as conducted numerous tests during the winter. Obviously we need to improve appearance and the first step back in race weekend, when I hope to be together with pilots of the team Journal. "



Ayrton Badovini said: "Eventually we managed to run dry, something that seemed impossible. We have tried many set up to find the right balance and in the end it seems that we found. I miss the knowledge of the track that I can be constant in time but I think right from the official practice, things will change because I'll be more determined. I will also try to follow someone more experienced to learn the best path".



Info
Phillip Island: 4,445 km
Corner: 7 left and 5 right
2010 Winner:
Race 1: Leon Haslam (Suzuki Alstare) 34'13"435
Race 2: Carlos Checa (Ducati Althea Racing) 24'16"428
Fastest Lap 2010: Leon Haslam (Suzuki Alstare) 1'32"193

Jonathan Rea now is expected to ride this weekend after this crash during testing.
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WSS


MotoGP

fim-live.com/: Second Sepang test finishes with Stoner on top

bbc.co.uk: Casey Stoner breaks two minutes to set Sepang record

bridgestone.com: Stoner sets blistering pace in second Sepang test

motomatters.com: 2011 MotoGP Sepang 1 vs Sepang 2 Comparison times ÔÇô Honda fastest, AND also most improved

ducati.com: last day of testing for DUCATI MotoGP Team in Malaysia


gpone.com: Capirossi: It all depends on Rossi
But ÔÇô
motogp.com: Rossi not satisfied with Sepang outcome

Yamaha-racing.com: Successful test for Yamaha Factory Racing in Sepang
And
teamtech3.fr: Colin Edwards and Cal Crutchlow make big progress in Sepang

suzuki-racing.com: Bautista ends Sepang test on positive note

Formula 1

autosport.com: Ecclestone aims to slot in Bahrain GP

LotusRanultGP.com
The wings of change
A guide to KERS

reuters.com: Small can be a big sterp up for Williams

Other Racing

facebook| BMW Motorrad Simo [Kirssi] goes Stateside


Bikes in the Fast Lane: Help save the Nurburgring Circuit.
Why ÔÇ£Save the NurburgringÔÇØ?
Sing the Petition

On the Street

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/l96hsKvDW7w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

ashonbikes.com: BMW K1600GT torque comparison

ajc.com: Daytona bound bikers protest state patrol checkpoints

Harlistas: An American Journey Trailer
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RfHxa_kqL-8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Harlistas: An American Journey is a first-of-its kind documentary that follows the emotional journeys of Latino Harley motorcycle riders in the U.S. as they seek adventure, camaraderie and the achievement of the American Dream. The full-feature film is a partnership between Harley-Davidson and award-winning director Alfredo de Villa and reflects Alfredo's own passion for the Harley-Davidson brand, Latino culture and the bond of families.

A national casting call led to the selection of a diverse mix of Harlistas who had dynamic stories to tell, resulting in a film narrative that authentically showcases Latino motorcycling culture. The real-life characters from Los Angeles, Chicago and New York, embark upon personal journeys that include South Dakota, the Pacific Coast, Los Angeles, Queens NY and Chihuahua, Mexico.

Visit http://bit.ly/gVmq6u for more information on the film, where you can see it, and how you can share your personal story.

The new Morgan 3 Wheeler is set to be unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show

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Specification
The specification ensures the driver and passenger have exactly what they need whilst encapsulating the original Morgan ThreewheelerÔÇÖs DNA. The attractive themes apparent in the successful Sport range of traditional Morgans forms the basis of the specification of the cars. Eight Sport colours with black detailing and a choice of black or tan leather are offered.
Weight: 500kg (Est.)
Power: 100bhp (at wheel) (Est.)
Top Speed: 115mph (Est.)
0-60 : 4.5 seconds (Est.)
Engine: ÔÇÿV twinÔÇÖ
Gearbox: 5 speed + reverse
Super formed aluminium body
Motorcycle homologation
Choice of 8 sport colours
Gloss black wheel arches and lamps
Gloss black wire wheels
Matt black exhausts + gloss heat shield
Nickel colored cowl
Gloss black roll hoops
Twin flyscreens
Black or tan leather
Leather seats, dash and side pads
Exposed tubular black chassis
Leather steering wheel + alloy centre
Black anodized dash panel
Aluminium ÔÇÿaircraftÔÇÖ toggle switches
Body Colored trim panels
ÔÇÿBomb releaseÔÇÖ style start button
ÔÇÿBespokeÔÇÖ specifications for the Morgan Three wheeler will be available, as with any Morgan, but at increased cost and following a run of standard cars off the production line.

autoblog.com has a rundown on the new Morgan.

brewmeister said:

Has anyone heard anything about a recall on the final drive issues with BMW?
My brother told me he heard the NTSB is now considering a recall on this long time problem that BMW fails to address? Thanks in advance to any imfo.

Click to expand...

I have not heard or read anything credible on your question. It may be out there but I have not seen it yet to give an answer. I have troubles believing that it would not be and that is a contributing factor in BMWÔÇÖs slow response to dealing with it. Agencies like the NHTSA are a mixed blessing in this case.

A complaint can be filed with the NHTSA at safecar.gov in three different ways: a portable form to submit, online or by phone. Once a complaint on a vehicle is received by the NHTSA a review is begun to determine if there is a trend that demonstrates a safety issue. Therefore, given the furor surrounding the FD issue I have troubles believing no one has filed a complaint and therefore work under the assumption that an investigation is in the works.

At some appropriate point the manufacturer, in our case BMW is contacted about the complaint. The goal is to have the manufacturer come up with an appropriate remedy.

What is the appropriate remedy in the FD case?

I have not had an FD failure on my Roadster and live in the State of Denial (look at any Fly-Over-Land map and the 51st state is clearly marked). What I have read leads me to believe if or when I have one there could be several causes for it. Identifying them and coming up with an appropriate remedy for each could be slowing the process down.

I will say yes to the cynics in the group. We live in a litigious society and world. Undoubtedly BMW lawyer types play as big a role in the process as do BMW engineers.

This brings us back to the NHTSA complaint form. It is vital that everyone who has had an FD failure to file a complaint. Each complaint adds to the data set for analysis. Each complaint adds to the pressure on both our government agency and BMW to act.

The Mothership

BMWUSA: "How We'll Learn To Stop Worrying and Love the Future" Extra: San Francisco 1905
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FWIW

This edition of FWIW was put to rest before I checked for any Friday results that may appear earlier in this post when it actually hits the forum.

If World Superbike were a board game all the pieces were put back in the box after Biaggi and Aprilia were given their crowns and severely shaken before opening it up for the 2011 season. The grid is full of new team rider and bike mixes.

After his dominance of the Phillip Island testing the safe money would be on Checa to take at least one of the races, if not both. The factory team withdrawal does not mean the end for DucatiÔÇÖs chances. Quite the contrary the Italian bike has a long storied history of racing to the top in the hands of ÔÇ£privateerÔÇØ teams. Why should this season be any different? I believe Ducati will play a role in hunt, particularly in the early part of the season, but will fade as the season rolls out and the other teams sort their bikes.

ReaÔÇÖs crash threw me off. If he had not crashed so badly I would have picked him to take one of the races. His health is a question mark as the race starts. Honda is stepping it up this season. As this years RR is sorted out they will be a serious contender at any race this season; baring injuries that is. I like Xaus much more on a Honda than I did on a BMW, but not enough to call him anything but a dark horse this weekend. Check back latter in the season.

Biaggi may podium but I do not pick him to win until the circus heads back to Europe. I donÔÇÖt mean to imply he will be sandbagging this weekend. I see this as an important tune up race for the championship defense that will star in earnest at Donington Park.

BMWughthe Enigma Machine has me stumped. If I were convinced either Roundel team have broke the secret code that is keeping it back I would pick Corser in Race 1 and Haslam in Race 2. I like the riders this season. I stand by my season prediction. I just dont have confidence yet in the Enigma Machines capabilities at the WSBK level.

Then there is the rest of the field to contend with. So many good riders and so few podium steps.

In boxing parlance we will have to go to the cards for the judges decisionWe have a split decision with Checa and Rea on the top step and ____ from BMW on one of the third steps.

Reference::

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

MSF Question of the Day: ]QOD[/url]

MSF Tip[/url]: Practice swerving, when and where it's safe to do so. That way, you'll be ready for the emergency maneuver when you need it.

Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

1973 BMW R60/5 Custom from BIKEEXIF

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Phillip Island - Qualifying Practice

25.02.2011 Press Release
Phillip Island ÔÇô Free Practice & Qualifying Practice 1.

Friday, 25 February 2011.





Weather conditions: Sunny, warm.

Temperature: Air: 19 ÔÇô 21 ??C, Track: 42 ÔÇô 45 ??C

Number of riders participating: 22 from 14 teams

Fastest lap Free Practice: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:31.647 min

Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:31.577 min





Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport started the 2011 season solidly: While Leon Haslam (GBR) and Troy Corser (AUS) suffered from severe grip issues in todayÔÇÖs free practice session, both BMW Motorrad Motorsport riders were able to secure provisional starting positions on the second and third rows during the first qualifying session. Both ridersÔÇÖ crews worked on the engine mapping as well as the chassis set-up between the sessions. Leon finished todayÔÇÖs qualifying in sixth, while Troy finished eleventh.





Leon Haslam:

Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:32.360 min (P4)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: 1:32.082 min (P6)

ÔÇ£We are happy with how today went, and definitely made a step forward from the test. We found half a second in warmer conditions, which is not too bad. Carlos Checa is still the man to beat, but I am pretty close to the other guys, and thatÔÇÖs the main thing. We now have to fine-tune some smaller remaining issues, but we are pretty much on the race pace now. As usual, we are pushing as hard as we can for tomorrow and Sunday.ÔÇØ





Troy Corser:

Fastest lap Free Practice: 1:34.913 min (P22)/Fastest lap Qualifying Practice: 1:32.699 min (P11)

ÔÇ£We have definitely made improvements with the bike. My bikeÔÇÖs set-up is now pretty much the same as LeonÔÇÖs, and my lap times dropped down to the same as his in the morning. Obviously we have moved on, but still we are not where we want to be. Again, this afternoon, we tried some things but did not improve any further. After this morningÔÇÖs session, we should be happy with the qualifying result. We will now look into the data and see where we can make further improvements.ÔÇØ





Rainer B?ñumel (Head of Race Operations):

ÔÇ£On Tuesday we saw we were heading in the right direction on LeonÔÇÖs side, while it took us longer to make TroyÔÇÖs bike quicker. He still had big problems during this morningÔÇÖs session. We were better in the afternoon, but still both riders lack mechanical grip. TomorrowÔÇÖs weather forecast is not too good, so we are happy with our provisional starting positions.ÔÇØ



Late for work

WorldSBK 2011 ÔÇô Phillip Island Update

Post Friday 1st Qualifying Session

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BMW MOTORRAD ITALIA SUPERBIKE TEAM - WSBK - Phillip Island - Qualifying Practice

25.02.2011
Press Release
Phillip Island (Aus), February 25th 2011
Weather conditions: Sunny, warm.
Temperature: Air: 19 ÔÇô 21 ??C, Track: 42 ÔÇô 45 ??C
Fastest lap Qualifying Practice 1: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:31.577 min

First day of testing for the BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team ahead of the opening round of the 2011 Superbike World Championship to be held next Sunday at Phillip Island circuit.

The very few kilometres in the dry during the teamÔÇÖs debut pre-event testing did not allow BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team to give their best on the first day.

After putting in reasonable practice sessions, James Toseland and Ayrton Badovini, encountered difficulties in first qualifying that ended with them in fifteenth and twentieth place respectively.

Much discussion was had in de-brief to find the right technical changes to give the riders a better set-up. Another qualifying session and a free practice will be held tomorrow before Superpole.

Serafino Foti, sporting director of BMW Motorrad Italy Superbike Team said: "When it comes to competing in races you would like to always get good results. Realistically we are in the development phase and in this respect we are happy, even though we know that we still have work to do."

James Toseland (1'33 "074 to 15th) said:" We had a rather difficult qualifying session. After the test we thought we would do better but the bike is new for me and the team. We will work to make progress for tomorrow with the data we have collected today and that should hopefully help us improve."

Ayrton Badovini (1'33 "589 ÔÇô 20th) said:"We have grip problems and are working to identify and solve the problem. I'm beginning to know the bike and the track but I am still concerned about the stiffness at the front that IÔÇÖm not confident with. "

Circuit of Phillip Island: 4,445 km
Corner: 7 at left and 5 at right
Winner 2010:
Race 1: Leon Haslam (Suzuki Alstare) 34'13"435
Race 2: Carlos Checa (Ducati Althea Racing) 24'16"428
Fastest lap 2010: Leon Haslam (Suzuki Alstare) 1'32"193



Phillip Island (AUS) 25 February 2011. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport. BMW Motorrad Motorsport Rider Leon Haslam on the BMW S 1000 RR


Phillip Island (AUS) 25 February 2011. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport. BMW Motorrad Motorsport Rider Troy Corser on the BMW S 1000 RR.


Phillip Island (AUS) 25 February 2011. World Superbike Championship Australian Round BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team. James Toseland on the BMW S 1000 RR.


Phillip Island (AUS) 25 February 2011. World Superbike Championship Australian Round BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team. Ayrton BAdovini on the BMW S 1000 RR

Phillip Island WorldSBK 2011 Update ÔÇô Saturday Q2

The session was full of challenges resulting in the order of the field changing. Checa retains his strangle hold on the tops spot but Biaggi moves up to P2. Rea made a move to P3 at one point only to be bumped down and Sykes leapfrogged from P17 to P2 briefly.

1 7 CHECA C ESP Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'31.577 302,0 42

2 1 BIAGGI M ITA Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'31.782 0.205 310,7 46

3 66 SYKES T GBR Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'31.813 0.236 305,4 39

4 50 GUINTOLI S FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'31.850 0.273 39

5 4 REA J GBR Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'31.906 0.329 304,5 32

6 58 LAVERTY E IRL Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'31.969 0.392 40

7 91 HASLAM L GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'32.023 0.446 297,8 40

8 96 SMRZ J CZE Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'32.066 0.489 297,8 40

9 17 LASCORZ J ESP Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'32.085 0.508 39

10 84 FABRIZIO M ITA Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'32.108 0.531 302,8 43

11 41 HAGA N JPN Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'32.168 0.591 43

12 33 MELANDRI M ITA Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'32.237 0.660 299,5 37

13 12 WATERS J AUS Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'32.413 0.836 305,4 40

14 111 XAUS R ESP Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'32.503 0.926 304,5 35

15 11 CORSER T AUS BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'32.520 0.943 41

16 52 TOSELAND J GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'32.609 1.032 302,0 32

17 2 CAMIER L GBR Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'32.847 1.270 39

18 67 STARING B AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'32.883 1.306 47

19 121 BERGER M FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'33.079 1.502 42

20 86 BADOVINI A ITA BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'33.161 1.584 300,3 36

21 44 ROLFO R ITA Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.286 1.709 38

22 8 AITCHISON M AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.413 1.836 41

I have no live reports yet.

At the 5ÔÇÖ10 remaining mark in the session Checa posted a 9ÔÇÖ+ lap and Biaggis something equally foul. Did they tangle and goes sight seeing off track? BiaggiÔÇÖs next hot lap was flaming and gave him P2 for this session.

Haslam was unable to improve on his best lap. He does seem to be able to motor around the track with incredible consistency. This may not give him the pole but could hold hope for race day. I have been pondering lap times, top speeds and ideal lap times. More on this next week.

The rest of the BMW cavalry improved their times with the Enigma Machine from yesterdays Q1 session but the rest of the field seemed to improve more. Corser dropped from P11 to P15. Toesland spent the entire session on the Superpole bubble or fighting his way back there. Rookie Badovini was able to improve by 0.12 of a second but remains in P20 and out of Superpole.

ROUND TIME (Local)

Superbike <>
Free Practice 2nd Session 26/02/2011 13.45.00
Superbike <>
Superpole 1 26/02/2011 15.00.00
Superbike <>
Superpole 2 26/02/2011 15.21.00
Superbike <>
Superpole 3 26/02/2011 15.40.00
Supersport <>
Qualifying 2nd Session 26/02/2011 16.05.00
Superbike <>
Warm Up 27/02/2011 9.20.00
Supersport <>
Warm Up 27/02/2011 9.45.00
Superbike <>
Race 1 27/02/2011 12.00.00
Supersport <>
Race 27/02/2011 13.30.00
Superbike <>
Race 2 27/02/2011 15.30.00

Phillip Island WorldSBK 2011 Update ÔÇô Superpole

Superpole 1

Haslam is quicker and has dropped his time to 1ÔÇÖ21.904 as the session post their first times. . Corser too finds quickness and is in P8 when people start ducking back into the pits. But at the midway point of Superpole 1 Checa and Guintolis ÔÇÿ Ducatis are on top of the field followed by Biaggi Haslam Laverty Rea Corser and the rest of the field. Toseland sits in P16.

3ÔÇÖ10 remaining
Toseland has pushed past Xaus for P15.

1ÔÇÖ40
Corser to P6

Chequered Falg
Toseland will start in P15

Not advancing to Superpole 2
13 Lascorz
14 Haga
15 Toseland1
6 Xaus


Superpole 2

8ÔÇÖ00
ChecaÔÇÖs Ducati remains on top while Smrz is listed as crashing. He is able to get back to the pits.

6ÔÇÖ00
People pit in for last time. Haslam P4, Corser P6

4ÔÇÖ58
Smrz is shown pit out so he is apparently alright.

2ÔÇÖ08
P1-8 are shown as Pit In. Haslam and Corser currently hold in P4 and 6. Six bikes are still on the track.

As the flag falls Corser is shown in P7. There are bikes that will finish their hot laps after the flag falls.

1 Checa
2 Biaggi
3 Guintolis
4 Haslam
5 Laverty
6 Smrz
7 Corser
8 Milandri

Less than a second between P1 and P8

Not advancing to Superpole 3 and starting in
9 Fabrizio
10 Sykes
11 Waters
12 Rea

Superpole 3

10 minutes
Haslam is out early. He has been very frugal with the number of laps so far.

8ÔÇÖ06
Everyone is shown out on the track Corsers fist time has him in P 8 while Haslam has dropped to P5 adrift of Checa Biaggi Guintolis and Laverty at this point.

6ÔÇÖ00
Lots of red on the screen Tyres are warm and people are posting new best times.

Haslam briefly in P1 then bumped by Biaggi at the 5ÔÇÖ00 mark
Corser in P4 now.

4ÔÇÖ00
Checa to P1 Guintoli to P3 as the Ducatis show once again.
Haslam P4 and Corser P7

3ÔÇÖ00
Guintolis is on a hot lap that looks to be good. Red in Int 1 and Green in Intv2He breaks off in P3.

P
1 Checa Ducati
2 Biaggi Aprilia
3 Guintolis Ducati
4 Haslam BMW
5 Laverty Yamaha
6 Smrz Ducati
7 Corser BMW
8 Melandri Yamaha
9 Fabrizio Suzuki
10 Sykes Kawasaki
11 Waters Suzuki
12 Rea Honda
13 Lascorz Kawasaki
14 Haga Aprilia
15 Toseland BMW
16 Xaus Honda

Checa continues to dominate. Haslam is in striking distance of a podium and maybe more.

I will have a normal Saturday post in the AM and put a Qualifying wrap up together and post that some time Saturday afternoon before the race.

Saturday, 26 February

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Phillip Island - Superpole
ÔÇó 26.02.2011
ÔÇó Press Release
Phillip Island ÔÇô Qualifying Practice 2 & Superpole.
Saturday, 26 February 2011.


Weather conditions: Sunny with some clouds in the afternoon.
Temperature: Air: 22 ÔÇô 25 ??C, Track: 36 ÔÇô 49 ??C
Number of riders participating: 22 from 13 teams
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:31.577 min
Fastest lap Superpole 3: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing) 1:30.882 min


After a tough start to the first race weekend of the 2011 season, Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport is happy with todayÔÇÖs Superpole Qualifying result. Both riders, Leon Haslam (GBR) and Troy Corser (AUS), made it into the third and final qualifying session, with Leon starting tomorrowÔÇÖs races from fourth and Troy seventh.


Leon Haslam:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:32.023 min (P7) / Fastest lap FP: 1:32.184 min (P4) / Fastest lap Superpole 3: 1:31.429 min (P4)
ÔÇ£This is a great result. If someone had offered me a front row start two weeks ago I would have been over the moon, so certainly we are all really happy. The team has pulled together and worked hard to overcome the issues we have had so far this weekend, and the end result has come at the right time. We have made good progress, but I still have a few areas I want to work on tomorrow before the races. Still as a team we are confident we have the pace to do well in the races tomorrow. Everybody in the team has worked very hard, so thanks to all the guys.ÔÇØ


Troy Corser:
Fastest lap Qualifying Practices: 1:32.520 min (P15) / Fastest lap FP: 1:32.820 min (P7) / Fastest lap Superpole 3: 1:32.182 min (P7)
ÔÇ£We struggled at the start of the weekend with the set-up, but since then we have all worked really hard to make positive steps forward. Leon and I were having the same issues, but collectively we found a solution and we both showed clear signs of improvement. In the last session I didnÔÇÖt have a new qualifying tyre to go out on, so I had to settle for a used one, but I cannot complain. Our race pace looks pretty good on paper, but a lot depends on the temperatures around here. On the whole I think we can all look forward to tomorrow.ÔÇØ


Rainer B?ñumel (Head of Race Operations):
ÔÇ£The entire team has worked very hard over the course of the last few days. Today we are satisfied, but at the same time we know it is still a long way from where we want to be. We made some alterations on the chassis side after yesterdayÔÇÖs sessions, and the grip level was higher today, which helped us a lot. Both Leon and Troy made it onto the front two rows, which makes us happy.ÔÇØ

leonhaslam.com: Front row for Haslam in Australia

jamestoseland.com: Toseland in high spirits down under

hondaproracing.com/sbk: Third row for Castrol Honda's Rea

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/j3oggEczV08" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
suzukiracing.com: Fabrizio just misses second row start

asphaltandrubber.com: World Superbike riders forming safety commission

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oM7CXjDoaHs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

WSS

On the Street

RECALL: Suzuki

Report Date : February 25, 2011 at 01:38 PM
NHTSA Campaign ID number : 11V108000

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
SUZUKI / AN400 2008-2009
SUZUKI / DL1000 2008-2009
SUZUKI / GSF1250 2008-2009
SUZUKI / GSX-R600 2008-2009
SUZUKI / GSX-R750 2008-2009
SUZUKI / GSX1300B 2008
SUZUKI / GSX1300R 2008-2010
SUZUKI / GSX650F 2008-2009
SUZUKI / SFV650 2009-2010
SUZUKI / VL800 2008-2010
SUZUKI / VLR1800 2008-2009
SUZUKI / VZ1500 2009-2010
Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP. Mfr's Report Date: FEB 18, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V108000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A


Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Potential Number of Units Affected: 73,426

Summary:
SUZUKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 MOTORCYCLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 2007 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2009, EQUIPPED WITH REGULATOR/RECTIFIER ASSEMBLIES, SUZUKI PART NUMBERS 32800-41F11, 32800-15H10, 32800-05H11, 32800-41G10, 32800-15H00, 32800-18H00, 32800-05G10, 32800-10G10, 32800-05H20, OR 32800-06G01. SOME REGULATOR/RECTIFIER ASSEMBLIES WERE PRODUCED WITH INSUFFICIENT ADHESION BETWEEN THE POWER MODULE (CIRCUIT BOARD) AND THE RECTIFIER CASE THAT CONTAINS A HEAT SINK TO DISSIPATE HEAT. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT ADHESION, HEAT GENERATED ON THE POWER MODULE CIRCUIT BOARD CAN CAUSE THE CIRCUIT BOARD TO DEFORM, AND LIFT OF THE CASE.

Consequence:
THIS CONDITION CAUSES EXCESSIVE HEAT ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD AND UNCONTROLLED ELECTRIC CURRENT OUTPUT, WHICH CAN RESULT IN INSUFFICIENT CHARGING CURRENT BEING PROVIDED TO THE MOTORCYCLE BATTERY. THIS CAN CAUSE DISCHARGE OF THE BATTERY AND CAN LEAD TO ENGINE STALLING AND/OR A NO-START CONDITION. ENGINE STALLING WHILE RIDING CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy:
SUZUKI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND SUZUKI DISTRIBUTORS WILL REPLACE THE REGULATOR/RECTIFIER WITH AN IMPROVED PART FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MARCH 2, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-714-996-7040.

Notes:
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV


[urol= [url]http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A//www.motoblog.it/post/28473/crisi-mercato-due-ruote-5-6-mila-posti-di-lavoro-a-rischio%3Futm_source%3Dfeedburner%26utm_medium%3Dfeed%26utm_campaign%3DFeed%253A+motoblog%252Fit+%2528motoblog%2529&hl=en&langpair=auto|en&tbb=1&ie=utf-8]motoblog.it[/url].[/url]: Two-wheeler market crisis ÔÇô 5 to 6 thousand jobs at risk

motorcycle.com: Erik Buell Racing 1190RS preview

sportrider.com: MV Agusta F3 development advances

Official Triumph video from the Isle of Skye press launch of the new Sprint GT
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xLdGoMlmERc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


FF Web Premi?¿re - Official Video
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0nnu0EIhSjw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

FWIW

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Kuvnhtdi06M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Reference::

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

MSF Question of the Day: ]QOD[/url]

MSF Tip[/url]:
Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

Phillip Island Update ÔÇô Saturday, February 26, 2011 ÔÇô Warmup Session

Corser on top of the times for Phillip Island race Warm Up session.
Haslam was in P2 until the closing seconds. Toseland moves up into the top ten and Badovini into P14.

Phillip Island 25-26-27 February 2011 Superbike Warm Up Session Complete
Pos # Rider Nat Bike Last Lap Best Lap Gap Int.1 Int.2 Int.3 Speed Laps
1 11 CORSER T AUS BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'43.233 9

2 50 GUINTOLI S FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'43.253 0.020 7

3 96 SMRZ J CZE Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'43.511 0.278 8

4 91 HASLAM L GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'44.010 0.777 8

5 4 REA J GBR Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'44.275 1.042 291,4 6

6 2 CAMIER L GBR Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'44.313 1.080 297,8 7

7 1 BIAGGI M ITA Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'44.643 1.410 8

8 41 HAGA N JPN Aprilia RSV4 Factory PIT IN 1'44.841
1.608 8

9 52 TOSELAND J GBR BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'44.844 1.611 9

10 7 CHECA C ESP Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'45.112 1.879 8

11 111 XAUS R ESP Honda CBR1000RR PIT IN 1'46.026 2.793 8

12 33 MELANDRI M ITA Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'46.141 2.908 8

13 17 LASCORZ J ESP Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'46.150 2.917 288,3 8

14 86 BADOVINI A ITA BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 1'46.164 2.931 270,9 6

15 66 SYKES T GBR Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'46.187 2.954 268,9 7

16 84 FABRIZIO M ITA Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'46.573 3.340 7

17 67 STARING B AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'47.045 3.812 282,3 7

18 12 WATERS J AUS Suzuki GSX-R1000 PIT IN 1'47.842 4.609 7

19 121 BERGER M FRA Ducati 1098R PIT IN 1'48.365 5.132 8

20 58 LAVERTY E IRL Yamaha YZF R1 PIT IN 1'48.508 5.275 6

21 44 ROLFO R ITA Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'49.436 6.203 8

22 8 AITCHISON M AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'49.550 6.317 8


Race 1 8PM Eastern Time
Race 2 10:30 Eastern Time


Videos from WorldSBK

Superpole - Phillip Island 2011
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lCVW8HZd_qA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oOKuMDu6pvY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KEt-98BHYMQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Is6DjCglqpg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Magazine - Preview 2011
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/O9eLVpr6o88" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Phillip Island Update ÔÇô Saturday, February 26, 2011 ÔÇô Race 1

Checa quickly takes control of the race and opens up an increasing gap over Biaggi and the rest of the field. Haslam settles into P3 unable to narrow the gap with Biaggi and with Laverty safely behind.

At the midway point in the race Checa has opened up a 4.323 second gap to Biaggi with Haslam 3+ seconds adrift of him. Memlandri sits 0.20 seconds behind then is shown taking P3 with 10 laps remaining. Corser is in P9, Badovini P16 and Toesland P19.

9 laps remaining
Haslam now ~o.50 seconds behind Melandri. Corser has picked up a spot.is now P8.

8 Laps remaining
Checa continues to motor about with a commanding lead beginning to lap back markers.

7 Laps remaining.
P 1-4 is unchanged. Behind Haslam the fight for P5 has seen that position change hands from Milandri, Laverty then Fabrizio

5 Laps remaining
No change in P1-4 but the gap to Malandri is ~0.050seconds for Haslam. Can he make a move?

Yes!

4 Laps remaining
Haslam is shown in P3 with a 0.3+ lead on Melandri. Corser in P9.

3 Laps remaining
HaslamÔÇÖs hold on P3 remains unchanged. Corser has dropped to P10

Lascorz and Guintoli are shown as having crashed. Those are the lapped back markets mentioned earlier.

1 Lap remaing
Haslam holding P3

Chequerd Flag

Haslam has put BMW on the third step of the podium in his first race with the team!
Corser P10
Badovini P14
Toseland P17

Pos # Rider Nat Bike Last Lap Best Lap Gap Int.1 Int.2 Int.3 Speed Laps
1 7 CHECA C ESP Ducati 1098R 1'35.883 1'32.193 22

2 1 BIAGGI M ITA Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'34.547 1'32.034 4.365 22

3 91 HASLAM L GBR BMW S1000 RR 1'34.538 1'32.266 10.719 22

4 58 LAVERTY E IRL Yamaha YZF R1 1'34.529 1'32.640 11.266 22

5 33 MELANDRI M ITA Yamaha YZF R1 1'34.785 1'32.379 11.293 22

6 84 FABRIZIO M ITA Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'35.091 1'32.834 12.039 22

7 96 SMRZ J CZE Ducati 1098R 1'35.575 1'33.390 20.294 22

8 66 SYKES T GBR Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.225 1'33.501 20.742 22

9 41 HAGA N JPN Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'36.523 1'32.676 22.421 22

10 11 CORSER T AUS BMW S1000 RR 1'37.170 1'32.287 25.822 22

11 44 ROLFO R ITA Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'34.446 1'33.878 29.270 22

12 4 REA J GBR Honda CBR1000RR 1'34.997 1'32.609 31.059 22

13 2 CAMIER L GBR Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'35.177 1'33.787 31.721 22

14 86 BADOVINI A ITA BMW S1000 RR 1'35.884 1'34.024 36.389 22

15 67 STARING B AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.763 1'34.156 36.470 22

16 111 XAUS R ESP Honda CBR1000RR 1'40.461 1'34.145 41.928 22

17 52 TOSELAND J GBR BMW S1000 RR 1'
34.301 294,6 21

18 12 WATERS J AUS Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'34.007 293,0 21

19 8 AITCHISON M AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'33.979 297,0 21

20 121 BERGER M FRA Ducati 1098R 1'34.344 291,4 21

21 17 LASCORZ J ESP Kawasaki ZX-10R CRASH 1'33.113 8 Laps 305,4 13

22 50 GUINTOLI S FRA Ducati 1098R CRASH 1'32.385 15 Laps 302,0 6

Phillip Island Update – Saturday, February 26, 2011 – Race 2

Checa does the double in DOMINATING fashion.
Biaggi and Melandri finish out the podium spots in a duel of their own.
Haslam is piped by Rea on the last lap and comes home in P5
Corse started strong then dropped like a stone.
Toseland is a midfielder.
Badovini doesn’t turn a wheel in Race 2

This one should be fun to watch full of action with positions traded, defended and traded again.

RACE NOTES

Last year Haslam took Race 1 for Alstare Suzuki and Checa finished in P7. Can Haslam turn it around on Checa and take Race 2?

Race 2 – 22 laps


Live timing comes up and Haslam is in the lead followed by Checa Laverty Melandri and Corser!

21 Laps remaing
Checa has taken the lead Haslam in P2.

20 Laps
Haslam is back in the lead and Corser is shown in P3

Toseland P15
Badovini is listed PIT IN in 21st of 21

19 Laps
Checa back in lead with Haslam and Corser following. O.707 is the gap covering them.
Toseland P11

18 Laps
Checa is pulling away once again Corser in P3 is 1.229 seconds adrift the lead and under challenge from Melandri

17 Laps
Corser is dropping first to Melandri who takes p3 then Biaggi taking P4 leaving Corser in P5

16 Laps
Haslam is now 3.154 seconds behind Checa and fighting to hold off Melandri who is turning in personal best sector times on this lap.

15 Laps
Melandri and Biaggi pass Haslam. ~0.40seconds is the spread for P2-4. BMWs now are in P4, 5, 14

14 Laps
Corser takes P4 from Haslam
Lavertye is hot on their tails

12 Laps
Checa’s lead is 3.238 seconds.
Haga slips by and takes P4 from Haslam.
Corser P8
Toseland p15

11 Laps
Haga remains ahead of Haslam but barely. Checa’s lead is down to 2.37 seconds.

Biaggi and Melandri are breaking away from the field.

2+ seconds behind that pair is the trio of Haga Haslam and Fabrizio.

:Lap 10
Haslam takes back P4 and opens a gap on Haga. Can he catch and pas Melandri to return to the podium?

Corser in P8 is being challenged by his old teammate Xaus and his Honda.

9 Laps
Haslam is holding his lead over Haga but can’t close on the two podium candidates ahead of him.

8 Laps
Biaggi and Melandri are both turning in personal best Interval times.

7 Laps
The gap from Checa to Melandri in P3 is 3.335 seconds then there is a 5 second gap to Haslam in 4. Haga is just .040 behind. I would love to see the duel. I am watch the live timing board.

6 Laps
The front three continue to improve their lap times.
The gap to Haslam has increased to almost six seconds but Fabrizio is now his challenger. Haga has fallen behind him and Rea to Py.

Corser is down in P14
Toseland in P15

Lascorz and his ZX-10R are shown pit in and out of the race

4 Laps
Almost everyone is showing green on the board the run to the end has begun.

3 Laps
Haslam is still in P 4 with Rea his challenger now. This group is 7 seconds behind the duo of Biaggi and Melandri and 10+ seconds behind the leader.

2 Laps
Coser is now shown in P16
Toseland has moved up to P14

Mot a good showing for either of them.

Can Haslam hold on to P4?

1 Lap
Checa
Biaggi +2.674
Melandri
Haslam +11.291
Rea +11.418
Haga
Fabrizio

Corse is now in P18

Chequered Flag
Checa
Biaggi
Melandri
Rea pips Haslam for P4 right at the end

Pos # Rider Nat Bike Last Lap Best Lap Gap Int.1 Int.2 Int.3 Speed Laps

1 7 CHECA C ESP Ducati 1098R 1'34.805 1'32.284 22

2 1 BIAGGI M ITA Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'33.319 1'32.012 1.188 22

3 33 MELANDRI M ITA Yamaha YZF R1 1'33.390 1'32.394 1.406 22

4 4 REA J GBR Honda CBR1000RR 1'33.950 1'32.935 10.563 22

5 91 HASLAM L GBR BMW S1000 RR 1'34.399 1'32.560 10.885 22

6 2 CAMIER L GBR Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'34.243 1'33.414 16.914 22

7 41 HAGA N JPN Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1'36.205 1'32.606 17.558 22

8 84 FABRIZIO M ITA Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'35.835 1'32.491 17.679 22

9 66 SYKES T GBR Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'34.353 1'33.276 18.070 22

10 111 XAUS R ESP Honda CBR1000RR 1'34.793 1'33.152 19.053 22

11 96 SMRZ J CZE Ducati 1098R 1'34.741 1'33.383 19.060 22

12 44 ROLFO R ITA Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.242 1'33.497 23.771 22

13 12 WATERS J AUS Suzuki GSX-R1000 1'35.477 1'33.471 23.956 22

14 52 TOSELAND J GBR BMW S1000 RR 1'35.252 1'33.566 28.713 22

15 58 LAVERTY E IRL Yamaha YZF R1 1'34.564 1'32.740 32.673 22

16 8 AITCHISON M AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.593 1'33.749 33.226 22

17 67 STARING B AUS Kawasaki ZX-10R 1'35.904 1'33.810 42.598 22

18 121 BERGER M FRA Ducati 1098R 1'38.995 1'33.575 51.819 22

19 11 CORSER T AUS BMW S1000 RR 1'32.355 249,7 21

20 17 LASCORZ J ESP Kawasaki ZX-10R PIT IN 1'33.414 7 Laps 297,0 14

21 86 BADOVINI A ITA BMW S1000 RR PIT IN 231,5 0

Sunday, 27 February

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK - Leftovers

Haslams comments at the Superpole press conference.
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He is a cool customer. He posted the link to this interview on Twitter after the warmup session race day.

eurosport.com: Haslam expects gradual improvement
Interview prior to Superpole and Races

Race 1

worldsbk.com: Checa in total control of Phillip Island race 1

Race 2

worldsbk.com: Checa seals a double win at Phillip Island

Post race press releases from the Enigma Cavalry

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - WSBK - Phillip Island ÔÇô Races
ÔÇó 27.02.2011
ÔÇó Press Release
Phillip Island ÔÇô Races.
Sunday, 27 February 2011.


Weather conditions: Rain in the morning, overcast in the afternoon.
Temperature: Air: 17 ÔÇô 21 ??C, Track: 19 ÔÇô 35 ??C
Number of riders participating: 22 from 13 teams
Fastest lap Race 1: Max Biaggi (Aprilia Alitalia Racing) 1:32.034 min
Fastest lap Race 2: Max Biaggi (Aprilia Alitalia Racing) 1:32.012 min


It has been a good start to the 2011 FIM Superbike World Championship for Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport. In race 1, Leon Haslam (GBR) secured the team its first podium finish of the season. The team leaves Australia with 33 points in the team standings (fourth overall). Leon lies fourth in the ridersÔÇÖ championship (27 points), Troy Corser (AUS) lies 14th (six points).

In race 1, both riders made good starts. After one lap, Leon was still defending his fourth position, while Troy had passed Sylvain Guintoli and Jakub Smrz. After just a couple of laps, Troy suffered badly from a lack of grip and chattering. He was not able to hold his position and finished tenth. Leon had some tough battles with Eugene Laverty and Marco Melandri. On lap 17 he passed Marco and was able to defend third until the chequered flag. Leon made a brilliant start in the second race and was first into turn 1. He struggled with the bikeÔÇÖs set-up and therefore was not able to defend this position. He finished the race fifth. Lying fourth, Troy found a false neutral on lap nine and fell back to eleventh. In the second half of the race he faced massive tyre degradation and finished the race only 19th.

Leon Haslam:
Result Race 1: 3rd, Gap to 1st: 00:10.719 min / Fastest Lap Race 1: 1:32.266 min
Result Race 2: 5th, Gap to 1st: 00:10.885 min / Fastest Lap Race 2: 1:32.560 min
ÔÇ£As a team we have made huge steps forward from two weeks ago. We still have some issues that need looking at in more detail to ensure we can become regular podium finishers, but on the whole we should be happy with the two races. The first race was great; we encountered some issues in race, two but still managed to finish in the top five, so we are definitely happy. A huge credit goes to the team for their efforts this weekend, but we now have to sit down and work out in detail how we plan to make that next step forward.ÔÇØ

Troy Corser:
Result Race 1: 10th, Gap to 1st: 00:25.822 min / Fastest Lap Race 1: 1:32.287 min
Result Race 2: 19th, Gap to 1st: 00:55.738 min / Fastest Lap Race 2: 1:32.355 min
ÔÇ£We started the race well, I felt good on the bike, but sadly I found a false neutral going into Honda corner and I went off the track. I rejoined down the field and then really struggled for grip. As the race progressed the tyre became really worn and I was losing traction everywhere, I simply couldnÔÇÖt do the times I wanted. We have identified some points that need addressing before Donington Park, but certainly I am looking forward to the rest of the season.ÔÇØ

Bernhard Gobmeier (BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director):
ÔÇ£Today has been a very rewarding end of what was a tough weekend. Leon did incredibly well and took a well-deserved podium finish for our team. Troy really had to fight with the bike. We now have to analyse the data on his side. I am proud of the entire team ÔÇô both the guys here at the track, and also the people in Stephanskirchen and Munich. We all fly back home tonight happy and satisfied. But we are hungry for more. These results will not be a one off. We will not have a rest. In four weeks we will race in Donington, and preparations for the first European races have already begun.ÔÇØ

BMW Motorrad Italia Superbike Team - WSBK - Phillip Island ÔÇô Race
ÔÇó 27.02.2011
ÔÇó Press Release
Phillip Island (Aus), 27 febbraio 2011
First World Championship points for the BMW Motorrad Superbike Team Italy in the first race of the 2011 World Championship. On the Australian circuit, James Toseland andAyrton Badovini have won a total of four points that will certainly strengthen the morale of the team and motivate to continue the recently started development programme of the bike with even greater force.
In race one James Toseland had a series of off-track moments that relegated him to seventeenth position, while in race 2, after changing the set up of the bike, he managed to finish in fourteenth place which would have been better without a small technical problem that slowed the English rider.
Fourteenth position for Ayrton Badovini in race 1 collected two championship points. Unfortunately in Race 2 the Italian was forced to retire with a technical problem on the first lap.
Serafino Foti, sporting director of BMW Motorrad Superbike Team Italy said: "We knew it was difficult for us to debut after only taking part in the few tests so far. We were expecting this. James has had a technical problem or he would undoubtedly have done better in the race 2. I'm happy that Ayrton rode a good race 1, while in the second he had an injector problem. From here we will try make another step forward by Donington".
James Toseland (Race 1, 17th - Race 2, 14th) said: "After the start in race 2 I thought I could get in the top ten. We changed the set-up after race 1 and the bike was handing well . I can only think of race one as a test but it was important to test the two set-ups.ÔÇØ
Ayrton Badovini (Race 1, 14th - Race 2, DNF) said: "We are partly pleased. In race 1 we rode as a decent test and we found the areas to work on. In Race 2, a technical problem stopped me. We're going to Donington more convinced that things will improve from here".



MotoGP

motogp.com: Ducati development team complete three day tests in Jerez

autosport.com: Ducati vows to solve GP11ÔÇÖs problems


Formula 1

autosport.com: Q&A on SauberÔÇÖs progress

thesun.co.uk: Williams rear end shakes F1

jamesallenonf1.com: Why this is the right moment for women drivers in F1

Other Racing

bikeexif.com: 1939 Indian 741

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On the Street

motorcycle-usa.com: Husqvarna road bike to be revealed in Milan

The Mothership

"How We'll Learn To Stop Worrying and Love the Future" Extra: Chris Anderson - The Privacy Paradox
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Reference::

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Often for a rider the Bike Candy comes at the end of the ride.




Phillip Island (AUS) 27 February 2011. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport. BMW Motorrad Motorsport Rider Leon Haslam Helmet, Flowers, Bottle of Champagne and Trophy for his 3rd Place.

Congratulations Leon. A tip of the helmet for a great race weekend and I hoist a cup of Official Fly-Over-Land coffee to many more!

Isn't Carlos Checa and Althea Racing actually a Ducati factory team,
pretending otherwise due to the official withdrawl of Ducati from WSB?

They certainly seemed dominant.

redsky49 said:

Isn't Carlos Checa and Althea Racing actually a Ducati factory team,
pretending otherwise due to the official withdrawl of Ducati from WSB?

They certainly seemed dominant.

Click to expand...

No, Yes, Well Sort of.

No.
Actually they are not a factory team. Ducati has stopped its factory sponsored WorldSBK effort and thrown its factory racing efforts behind their MotoGP team. The factory does not cut the pay checks. It does not provide the big buck transporters etc. Althea Racing is a private concern.

Yes.
Ducati has a long history of not having a factory team but providing incredibly strong support to one or two teams that, for the average fan in the stands, makes those teams look like factory teams. If it rides like a Duc, looks like a Duc, sounds like a Duc, then itÔÇÖs at factory Ducati.

Well Sort of.
As the 2011 season rolls out how much effort Ducati puts into supporting WSBK teams v. what they did for their factory teams may vary. Ducati pulled out of WSBK due to MotoGPÔÇÖs move to liter bikes in 2012 and the unwillingness of WSBK rule makers to change the homologation rules to help the Italian twin keep up with the improvements in the four cylinder bikes the other teams are fielding. Baring a change in WSBK rules the Ducati effort will look more and more like a true privateer effort as time passes.

Checa was indeed very dominating in Australia beginning with testing last week and carrying through to race day. Things will change once the circus returns to Europe.

Phillip Island is a track that is a nice mix of speed and technical segments. No one bike type dominates. This works to DucatiÔÇÖs favor in the opener.

Of the various efforts the Ducati bikes and riders have the most continuity with last seasonÔÇÖs bike. In this case being and extension of the previous effort worked in their favor. The rest of the teams have a race weekend and its data under their belts as they head to Donington. Last year Checa split the race victories with Haslam and his Alstare Suzuki. The circus went to Assen next and Biaggi pulled a double.

Europe has a number of speed circuits. These showcase the power and speeds the four cylinder bikes produce. The homologation weight rules and other features frustrate Ducati these weekends.

Monday, 28 February

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

fim-live.com: Checa the irresistible force

smh.com.au: Smoking gun

motorsport.com: Phillip Island Motorcycling Australia Sunday report

leonhaslam.com: Debut podium for Haslam

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Twitter-Leon Haslam - I've mixed feelings about today. Happy with 3rd not happy with 5th lots of work to do now before Donington.

jamestoseland.com: Steep leaning curve for Toseland

ducati.com: Carlos Checa Althea Racing scores his first double of the season at Phillip Island

gpone.com: Milandri ÔÇô ÔÇ£Europe will be differentÔÇØ

hondaproracing.com: Rea defies pain for fourth place at Phillip Island

Interviews with Xaus and Rea
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Suzuki-racing.com: Fabrizio fights for 6th in Phillip Island opener

SBK Race 1
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SBK Race 2
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Kawasaki interview ÔÇô World Superbikes 2011 and the new ZX-10R
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Sound familiar?

The Mothership

"How We'll Learn To Stop Worrying and Love the Future" Extra: The Evolution of Driving
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I believe, the first of many shots like this -

Tuseday, 1 March

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Phillip Island post race statistics

Manufacturer Standings
1 Ducati 50 pts
2. Aprilia 40 pts
3 Yamaha 29 pts
4 BMW 27 pts
5 Suzuki 18 pts
6 Honda 17 pts
7 Kawasaki 15 pts


aprilia.com: Australia GP. Second in race 1 and 2: positive beginning for world champion Max Biaggi and Aprilia in world SBK

Kawasaki-racingteam.eu: Sykes gives new Ninja ZX-10R a solid race debut

James Toseland’s Facebook Wall: Back on UK soil, was hoping for a better start of the season but I will be doing some (hopefully dry!) testing to improve my bike's set-up ahead of the next race. Bring on Donington!

jamestoseland.com: Toseland to “repay faith and loyalty” for confirmed Benetts support

WSS


MotoGP

roadracingworld.com: BMW to remain official car of MotoGP until 2016
But will they ever be an official entrant?

crash.net: Repsol Honda chassis options
.

Formula 1

www.formula1.com: Daimler complete Mercedes GP takeover.
Ross Brawn “I remain fully committed to our team for the long haul”
I don’t know where you come from but in Fly-Over-Land those words are usually uttered to a reporter just before you head to your attorney to find out how long you are bound by contract until you can spend the loot you just raked in

autosport.com: Renault – Heidfeld already leading team

bbc.co.uk: Red Bull budget boosted as engines renamed Infiniti

telegraph.co.uk: Formula1 pays down private equity debt

Fernando Alonso on the track with the Ferrari F150th Italia
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Other Racing

bmw-motorsport.com: Three question for…Bobby Rahal

On the Street

webbikeworld.com: Micatech Motorcycle luggage – Roof Racks review

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recalls.gov.au: Suzuki recall reaches down under.

File this under future roadside attractions. bismarktribune.com: North Dakota metal artist building ‘world’s largest motorcycle’

ifitshipitshere.com: Luxury racing bicycles exquisitely crafted of mahogany wood

The Mothership

rolls-roycemotorcars.com: Rollw-Royce at the Geneva International Auto Show

rolls-roycemotorcars.com: 102EX – PHANTOM EXPERIMENTAL ELECTRIC


BMW Motorrad USA eNewsletter

BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citro?½n to Invest 100 Million EUR in Joint Venture on Hybrid Technologies.
by BMW Group View on Monday, February 28, 2011 at 6:03am

Research and Development to be located in the greater Munich area +++ Production facility would be in Mulhouse, France +++ 400 employees expected on board by end of 2011

The BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citro?½n plan to invest 100 million EUR in their intended joint venture on hybrid technology named “BMW Peugeot Citro?½n Electrification”, both companies announced at a press conference in Geneva today. The new company will operate out of two locations – the greater Munich area, Germany and Mulhouse, France. 400 employees are expected to work for the joint venture by the end of 2011. Subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities, the new company is expected to launch its operations in the second quarter of 2011. The new hybrid components will equip both partners’ vehicles from 2014 onwards.

Reference::

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MSF Question of the Day: QOD: QOD. Which of the following is a standard motorcycle control?


MSF Tip: Always ride defensively. Control your ride - don't let your ride control you.

Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

1968 BSA Starfire

Bought mine new for $699.00.

Takes me back.... Lucas wiring Prince of Darkness!