FROST WINS BADD 3 HOUR

A casual approach became a winning one for Waikato’s Sloan “Choppa” Frost in Taupo on Sunday.
The Waikato man took his Ambient Air Suzuki GSX-R1000 superbike out for “a little extra practice” at the Taupo’s Centennial Park race track and ended up surprising everyone, including himself, by winning the inaugural BADD (Bikers Against Drunk Drivers) three-hour endurance race.
“I wasn’t even going to do the race,” said Frost. “I was just going to use the event for a little extra practice ahead of Monday’s third and final round of the Suzuki International Tri Series.
“I pulled into the pits after a few laps to refuel and had nobody come to service me. I went out and did another lap then came back in and they were ready for me. They said I was actually running second in the race (behind the Suzuki team of Wellington’s Glen Skachill and Auckland’s Sam Smith) and said I should keep going.”
At that stage, Andrew Stroud’s Suzuki team was in third place and the Honda team of Hayden Fitzgerald (New Plymouth) and Jeremy Holmes (Invercargill) were in fourth spot.
“My crew then shot down to the service station to get some fuel for me for the next stop and that was it … I was officially in the race,” smiled the 28-year-old air conditioning installer.
“When I next gassed up I was a lap down on the lead bike but on the last lap I caught Fitzgerald and snatched the lead. I won the race, simple as that.
“I had only used one set of Pirelli tyres for the whole race too ... and they still looked like new at the end.
“Me and Hayden (Fitzgerald) were the only riders to complete 112 laps in the three hours.”
So, even though he was riding solo, Frost lapped down to third place.
“I used the mode sensor on the Suzuki and set it to ‘B’, to limit the power and save on fuel and tyres. It worked a treat,” said Frost.
Source: Suzuki NZ

STROUD BACK ON TRACK - RETAINS SERIES TITLE

Andrew Stroud is back on track.
Following a day beset by problems at the opening round of the Suzuki International Tri Series at Manfeild a week ago, Hamilton’s Stroud struck gold at the second round of the series on the streets of Wanganui on Boxing Day.
The Tri Series defending champion took his Suzuki GSX-R1000 to runner-up spot in the day’s opening race on Wanganui’s Cemetery Circuit on Saturday, “boiling brake fluid” forcing him to relinquish his lead to main rival Craig Shirriffs, of Feilding, but Stroud was unstoppable in the next two outings.
It was also the turn for Shirriffs to strike a little bad luck as he crashed out of the second superbike race, thus swinging the series advantage back in favour of Stroud.
The two men have now each recorded two wins, a second placing and a dnf in their four Tri Series superbike outings and it will go down to the wire at Monday’s third and final round at Taupo to decide the title.
In addition, Stroud won the coveted Robert Holden Memorial feature race, snatching the lead from Shirriffs on the final lap.
“Craig came past me early in the memorial race and then I got blocked by back-markers. Then he got held up and I lined him up on the last lap and passed him right on Suzuki corner. It couldn’t have been better really.
“I didn’t have a great weekend at Manfeild but it worked out for me here today,” said Stroud.
Wanganui pair Stephen Bron and Dennis Simonsen won the F1 sidecars class on their Suzuki LCR, while New Plymouth’s Terry Fitzgerald and Palmerston North’s Glen Williams resumed their dog-fighting from Manfeild as they made it a Suzuki 1-2 in the Formula three-class.
Defending national F3 champion Williams had the upper hand at Manfeild but it was arch rival Fitzgerald, on another Suzuki SV650, who ended up on top at Wanganui.
It’s looking like being another fierce battle between these two great riders in 2010.

----------------

STROUD RETAINS SERIES TITLE

A cool head and years of experience paid rich dividends for Hamilton father-of-seven Andrew Stroud on Monday.
It was a must-win situation when the Suzuki star arrived at Taupo’s Centennial Race Circuit for Monday’s third and final round of the Suzuki International Tri Series.
He was level in the points standings with arch rival Craig Shirriffs, of Feilding, after the pair had scored identical results at rounds one and two – at Manfeild a fortnight ago and on the streets of Wanganui on Boxing Day – but the deadlock was broken in the first of two races at Taupo’s finale on Monday.
The weather played a big part and seven-time former New Zealand superbike champion Stroud guessed right with his tyre choice in race one, opting for slick tyres while the more cautious Shirriffs picked grooved rubber.
The rain that threatened never arrived and Stroud was able to race away to a commanding victory while Shirriffs was forced to withdraw, his tyres not up to the pace.
"Then it started spitting again and that made it quite greasy, so I had to slow down," Stroud said.
But the points were already in the bag and sensible riding in the next outing was all that was required for Stroud to successfully defend the crown he won last year.
But Stroud raced to the lead and, although Shirriffs challenged hard, it was Stroud in front at the finish, the title staying in his hands.
Stroud said he now felt very well prepared for the New Zealand Superbike Championships, which kick off at Christchurch’s Ruapuna circuit o January 16.
For the pre-season Tri Series, Stroud won races at all three rounds, and also set lap records at Manfeild and Taupo, and then won the Robert Holden Memorial feature race at Wanganui.
Wellington teenager Glen Skachill (Suzuki) won the tri Series’ Formula 2 title and New Plymouth veteran Terry Fitzgerald (Suzuki) won the Formula 3 category.
Results from the Taupo international motorcycling tri-series races on Monday:

Superbikes:

• 1. Race 1: Andrew Stroud (Hamilton) Suzuki 1, Sloan Frost (Hamilton) Suzuki 2, Ray Clee (Kumeu) Suzuki 3.
• 2. Race 2: Stroud 1, Craig Shirriffs (Fielding) Honda 2, Hayden Fitzgerald (New Plymouth) Honda 3.
• 3. Series winner: Stroud.

Formula 2:

• 1. Race 1: Jamie Galway (Masterton) Honda 1, Paul Dobbs (Waiuku) Ducati 2, Sam Love (Taur) Yamaha 3.
• 2. Race 2: Love 1, Galway 2, Karl Morgan (Auckland ) Suzuki 3.
• 3. Series winner: Glen Skachill (Wellington) Suzuki.

Formula 3:

• 1. Race 1: Terry Fitzgerald (New Plymouth) Suzuki 1, Jason Easton (Palmerston North) Tigcraft-Aprilia 2, Russell Josiah (Taumaranui) Suzuki 3.
• 2. Race 2: Fitzgerald 1, Glen Williams (Palmerston North) Suzuki 2, Easton 3.
• 3. Series winner: Fitzgerald.

Source: Suzuki NZ

ITALIAN GOZZINI WINS KIWI RIDER CUP AND TRI SERIES

Words: supermotard.co.nz
There was no mistaking the Italian visitors class. With Italy's Davide Gozzini winning both the Tri Series Supermotard class and the Kiwi Rider cup at the Cemetery circuit races the local field were treated to some world class lessons.
After round one at Manfeild Gozzini(TM), along with fellow Italian Ivan Lazzerini (Honda) trailed Aprilia mounted Kiwi's Scott Moir and Toby Summers by a single point. The Italian pair had found the open spaces of Manfeild a tough place to compete against the powerful Aprilia's.
At the Cemetery circuit the pair turned the tables, breaking away from the field in a class of their own, Gozzini taking the series lead and KiwiRider Cup with slender wins over his countryman.
For the final round, Taupo's Scott Moir produced stunning rides on his home track. In the first, wet race Moir rode the conditions brilliantly to hold off Gozzini to the line, with Lazzerini and Summers a long way back from the battle at the front of the field.
In the dry race two, Moir again looked strong, blasting past the Italian pair on the front straight. Sadly Moir fell while entering turn four soon after, later commenting "I knew third place in the series would have been secure if I finished in the top three But that goes out the window when you're in contention for a win". The Italian show continued without Moir, Lazzerini taking the last race win, Gozzini the title.

SKACHILL UNBEATABLE AT MANFEILD

Wellington's Glen Skachill (Suzuki), in scintillating form at Manfeild on Saturday. Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

He may be only 19 years old, but Wellington fitter and turner Glen Skachill races motorcycles like a man with many years of experience.
In only his first season on board the Suzuki GSX-R600, Skachill is already clocking up wins with monotonous regularity in the 600 sports production class and he added another three impressive race victories when the Suzuki International Tri Series kicked off at Manfeild on Saturday.
Skachill took his Museum Hotel Suzuki GSX-R600 to the front early in each of his 600cc class outings and even broke the Manfeild lap record in one race as he went on to pocket maximum points from the weekend's work.
Skachill finished a solid eight points clear of Christchurch Yamaha rider John Ross and a further four points ahead of the third-ranked rider, Inglewood's Midge Smart (Suzuki).
Then, just to give himself extra track time, Skachill took his second bike, the lightly-modified Ozzy Performance spec GSX-R600 to race in the superbike class as well.
There he raced to fifth and sixth placing, to end the day fifth overall, just five points behind fellow Suzuki rider Sloan Frost (GSX-R1000), of Hamilton.
He now prepares for his first tilt at the national 600 sports production class title -- the five-round New Zealand Superbike Championships kick off at Ruapuna, Christchurch, on January 17.
"This will be my first full national championship campaign and I'm really looking forward to it," said Skachill.
"Of the South Island rounds, I've only raced at Ruapuna once before, so Levels (Timaru) and Teretonga (Invercargill) will be foreign to me. But I think I'm a pretty quick learner. I broke the lap record in my class at Pukekohe the first time I raced there."
Meanwhile, the formula three class looks like it will be another Williams and Fitzgerald show this summer.
Manawatu's Glen Williams (Suzuki SV650) and Taranaki's Terry Fitzgerald (Suzuki SV650) were hard to separate all weekend as they shared wins in the F3 class.
Third best in the class was another Suzuki rider, Wanganui's Ashley Payne.
"I'm going quicker now than at the same time last season," said F3 national No.1 Williams. "Terry pushed me all day and I can see he's going to be my biggest threat again this season."
Fitzgerald was also very satisfied with his racing on Saturday, his first outing this season.
"I have not done a lot of riding over the winter, so it was good to come here and blow the cobwebs out," said the 51-year-old Bell Block man.
"My lap times were competitive and I set the fastest lap time (in the class)."
Although Fitzgerald finished 2-1-2 to Williams' 1-2-1, it is Fitzgerald who leads the Tri Series standings (on count-back) because the third race was a non-points race.
"I think it's going to be very close between me and Glen this season, but I also think New Plymouth's Jason Nairn will be in the mix," said Fitzgerald.
Suzuki's Nairn was a non starter on Saturday.
Hamilton's Andrew Stroud, the defending Tri Series champion in the superbike class, had a weekend to forget.
He did not finish the first race because of a minor technical problem with his after-market rear wheel. He came back to win race two but is now forced to play catch-up for points through the rest of the series.
"It was an accessory wheel and the first time I've used it and there was a circlip missing," said Stroud. "It's very tough for me to catch up to (series leader) Craig Shirriffs now. But I'm thrilled with how the bike is going.
Source : Suzuki NZ

KING KENNY RETURNS

Cypress, California, December 17th 2009 - In a year that saw Yamaha riders James Stewart,
Valentino Rossi, and Ben Spies capture the perfect “trifecta” of World Championships, perhaps
one of the most memorable moments for race fans around the world, was “King” Kenny Roberts’
return ride at the infamous Indy Mile in late August.
As a year end surprise, Yamaha is pleased to offer race fans around the world a video of this
monumental occasion. The video features both archival footage from Kenny’s victory in 1975 as
well as the events surrounding this recent monumental motorcycling event.

Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S. wishes all race fans a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.

BIG BADD 3 HOUR FIELD

Motorcycle Racing stars to shine in support of Charities at Xmas

Riders support safe and sober decisions and Food-bank

Bikers Against Drunk Driving (BADD) are hosting its third Annual Rally on the 27th December this year. Departing from Tauranga, New Plymouth and Napier to this year’s destination – the BADD 3-Hour Endurance Race, Taupo International Motorsport Park. Riders who do not wish to participate in group rides are also encouraged to join us.
See www.badd.co.nz for more information.
Riders this year are invited to bring non-perishable food to the value of $10 to  Gate One Taupo International Motorsport Park in exchange for Free Entry into the 2nd BADD 3 Hour Endurance Race starting at 2pm, the feature race of the Taupo Road Race Spectacular, the final round of Suzuki sponsored International Tri-Series with a dramatic visual display of rivalry on show from NZ’s top riders, including amongst many, one of NZ’s legends of Motorcycle Racing, Andrew Stroud.
Free entry includes Free onsite Motorcycle parking, and Free overnight camping for spectators on the 27th December.  This event aims to provide entertainment for the whole family.
Spokesperson Jos Mason who started BADD, when her husband was killed by a recidivist drink driver along with two of his friends in 2007, said “We felt Xmas holidays were not only a good time to continue to raise awareness around the consequences of drink driving, reminding the community to use sober drivers, but was also an opportunity to assist the community food-bank, and families at a tough time of year”
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Jos Mason BADD Spokesperson
(0211396380)

MOTOGP ENGINES BIGGER FOR 2012

Words: Todd S
After managing 53 years without any changes, MotoGP (the preimer road race class) gets its third proposed engine capcity change in a decade.
In 2012 it has been decided that the main class will now be opened up to 1000cc machines. The bore will be restricted to 81mm, the number of cylinders to four.
Other details will be ironed out in the meantime, with some suggestions that a production based engine and free rein on chassis design, as per the new moto2 class, as a possibility.
MotoGP web link

MOTOGP RETURNS TO LITRE FORMAT FOR 2012

In new regulations published today for MOTOGP, maximum engine capacity has been increased to 1000cc, with a maximum of 4 cylinders and a bore of 81mm. Other moves to reduce complexity include limiting hydraulic or pneumatic equipment actuation to the valve train, specifically excluding engine oil from being used for anything other than lubrication or cooling.

The following statement was released by DORNA and the FIM:

“It was a very important meeting to decide the future of the MotoGP class,” explained Dorna chairman Carmelo Ezpeleta, quoted on motogp.com. “From 2012 the bikes will have an engine capacity of up to 1,000cc, have up to four cylinders and the maximum bore will be 81mm.

“It's a very important measurement, because with this we can have all the characteristics of the engine. This has been approved, and between now and the start of the 2010 season we will have another two meetings to define the rest of the specifications for this new class.”

“The main changes we have decided on are new rules for the MotoGP class,” added FIM President Vito Ippolito. “We will have four-cylinder engines, four-stroke of course, with a 1,000cc maximum. This base will give all the manufacturers the opportunity to start work. At the beginning of next year we will produce the new rules in a more complete format, but that is the basis. 2012 will be the year of a new era of MotoGP.”

FIM regulations for 2012 can be found here.

SUZUKI'S STROUD IS NO GENTLEMAN RACER

DECEMBER 9, 2009: He's an absolute gentleman to all who know him but, if Hamilton motorcycle ace Andrew Stroud has learned anything in the past few seasons, it's that he can't afford to be a gentleman on the racetrack.

"I simply can't afford to give an inch if I want to win the New Zealand Superbike Championships … it's as simple as that," said the softly-spoken 41-year-old father-of-seven.

A seven-time former national champion, Stroud (Suzuki GSX-R1000) has finished runner-up to fellow Suzuki star Robbie Bugden the past three seasons, but he believes now is the time to snatch back the No.1 plate from the Australian invader.

"I've got to treat every lap like it's the last one of the race … that's when I usually go best," he said. "I've just got to go hard from the start and maintain that speed throughout. There can be no slackening.

"I may be 41 -- and I turn 42 on New Year's Eve -- but I'm as fast now as at any time in my career. I just have the feeling that 2010 will be my season to win again. Robbie and the others had better watch out because I mean business."

And that's no hollow threat. Stroud has been in stunning form, in recent months, racing under the lap record at Manfeild as he tackled two rounds of the popular Victoria Motorcycle Club's Winter Series at the Manawatu race circuit.

"I’m going fractionally faster than last year, even faster at Manfeild that I was when I beat Robbie (Bugden) there last season … and I'm not even trying that hard yet," he laughed. "The new bike is just so good. It turns really well and is very confidence-inspiring."

Stroud is certainly likely to again be one of defending champion Budgen's biggest threats when the five-round nationals kick off at Christchurch's Ruapuna circuit on January 16-17.

Stroud will get his first crack at the top echelon of Kiwi and Australian superbike racers when he also races the 2009 Tri-Series, that frenetic two-weekend series set to open in just over a week, at Manfeild on December 19, with rounds to follow on the streets of Wanganui on Boxing Day and then at Taupo on December 28.

Stroud won the inaugural Pro Moto-sponsored Tri-Series last season, making him the favourite to repeat the dose this time around.

It is certainly going to be a busy couple of weeks for Stroud.

The Waikato ace will also line up his Suzuki in the Bikers Against Drunk Drivers (B.A.D.D.) three-hour endurance race being staged at the Taupo track on the intervening Sunday, December 27.

For that event he will team up with fellow Hamilton rider Sloan Frost and 53-year-old five-time former Australian superbike champion Robbie Phillis, the trio sharing the riding duties for the marathon race.

Wellington's Glen Skachill Auckland's Jason McCamish teamed up on a Suzuki GSX-R600 to win the inaugural three-hour event last year.

"I'm really pumped for this season," said Stroud. "I am feeling a lot fitter this season too. I have been in the gym and running and swimming, but also doing a bit of BMX racing too. I take my kids with me to race BMX on Wednesday nights. It's a great fitness experience workout and pretty good fun too.

"At some stages in the superbike racing last season I'd want to put my head down and go hard but I didn't really have the fitness to maintain that. It'll be a different story this season."

Source: Suzuki NZ. 

 
Andrew in Action at the Burt Munro Challenge. Our full BMC set is here.

BIRCH LEADS KIWI ONE-TWO IN LESOTHO

BABOONS LESOTHO SUN ROOF OF AFRICA - 26 to 28 November 2009
BIRCH SAVES THE BEST FOR LAST AND SMASHES THE FIELD ON FINAL DAY
After the previous day's soul destroying 10-hour session of extreme enduro riding, front running competitors had another almost ten-hour day on a shortened route starting at 06:00 on the final day, with the first man home at 15:40.
“This is by far the toughest race I have ever done,”commented New Zealand’s Rory Mead, who finished second overall in his maiden race on a 250ccYamaha, behind his countrymen and defending champion Chris Birch.
Birch, riding a 300cc KTM, almost had drama that cost him the race. He was the first rider on the route; at a T-junction he went the wrong way.
To rectify the problem, once he realised he was in the wrong, he drove out of the stage, returned to the start at Roma and re-started the race after discussing the problem with the organizers. He then took off like a man possessed, and managed to outride the entire field on corrected time, making it a New Zealand one-two for the 2009 Baboons Lesotho Sun Roof of Africa.
Having won the race by 45 minutes last year, Birch returned with the knowledge that he was under pressure to defend his title, but was confident that he was well prepared to do so. However, he managed to outride second placed Mead by a massive 2 hours and 14 minutes, placing him way up in a class of his own in the 43 year old history of the Roof of Africa. Andreas Lettenbichler (Germany) rode exceptionally well and left many people in awe with his astounding skill and the way he mastered mountain passes where others really struggled.
He had serious drama and was very disappointed in his maiden event, when he was forced to stop in the last 25 km as a result of technical problem, whilst leading the race on the road, ahead of his team-mate Jade Gutzeit (South Africa), who ended up in third place overall on corrected time with the big G450X BMW only 12 secondsbehind Mead.
Indicating just how exceptionally difficult the race really was, only 23 competitors of the 102 starters, doing the full event, finished the race, with a number of riders spending Friday night out in the mountains, accommodated by the local communities in their villages.
“These people are fantastic. They gave us food, place to sleep, and really took care of us, although we really struggled to communicate, but I quite enjoyed it out there,” said one of the competitors after finishing.
Chris Birch commented after the finish:
“It was really tough, I am not as tired as yesterday, but I worked hard today. All I could do when I re-started was to focus and ride my absolute best, but I am very happy to take the trophy home this year.”
On corrected times the official winners of the 2009 Roof of Africa are:1. Chris Birch (New Zealand) on a KTM2. Rory Mead (New Zealand) on a Yamaha3. Jade Gutzeit (South Africa) on a BMW

ALL ROADS LEAD TO INVERCARGILL

All roads lead to Southland for the nation's motorcyclists this weekend as the annual Burt Munro Challenge gets underway for another year.

The four-day weekend of activity includes the Bluff Hill Climb today, the New Zealand Beach Racing Championships on Friday, the Teretonga Sprint Races on Saturday and the Wyndham Street Race on Sunday.

A record number of competitors and rally-goers are expected in Invercargill for the Burt Munro Challenge and organisers are also expecting about 2000 motorcycle enthusiasts to turn up to the rally at Oreti Park.

Beach race organiser Steve Winteringham said he was impressed with the "record number of helpers" who had come forward this year.

"We have about 40 people willing to work at Oreti Beach to make this a success.

"Titles will be decided over an 800-metre oval course -- that we've actually moved along the beach this year to avoid the Toaroa shellfish beds … we're thinking of the environment -- and it should again be a highlight of the weekend.

"As well as the national beach racing titles, there will also be races for ATV and super quads. We hope to make them national titles next season," he said.

Top beach race title contenders include Taranaki's Mitch Rowe, the former national 500cc motocross champion who now dedicates his time to racing super motard, and Invercargill's Greg Baynes.

Road-racing legend Brian Bernard, of Wanganui, is also entered this year and he should be a threat.

Also expect to see strong performances again from Christchurch's Jason Feaver, Nelson's Roger Middlebrook, Auckland's Bruce Fraser and Queenstown's Trevor Keast.

In addition to all the race action, the revolutionary New Zealand superbike that broke four world records will be in Invercargill for the weekend.

One of the legendary Britten V1000s – built by the late motorcycle engineering genius John Britten – will be in the city.

Built in the early 1990s, the Britten motorcycle has become a world-class racing bike and is extremely rare with only 10 of the distinctive fluorescent pink and blue bikes ever built.

Burt Munro Challenge steering committee chairman Wayne Affleck said motorcycle enthusiasts would have a chance to get close to the Britten, as well as former top superbike riders, Andrew Stroud and Aaron Slight, at an evening at Ascot Park Hotel tonight.

The programme of events is:

* Thursday: Bluff Hill Climb At Flagstaff Rd, Bluff. Racing starts 11am. Night with Aaron Slight and Andrew Stroud Ascot Park Hotel, 7.30pm
* Friday: Burt Munro Challenge Beach Racing and New Zealand Championships Oreti Beach, from 5pm
* Saturday: Burt Munro Challenge Teretonga Sprint Races Teretonga Raceway, from 9am Burt Munro Challenge Speedway Spectacular Oreti Park Speedway, from 5pm
* Sunday: Burt Munro Challenge Wyndham Street Race Wyndham, from 10am

BIKERS RAISE THOUSANDS FOR CHARITY

Bikers from all over the country attending last Tuesday's "BIKEOI" raised $3,264.70 toward a new Emergency Response ambulance for the Wellington Free Ambulance.

Westpac Trust Stadium staff stood on the Fran Wilde Walk wearing Hi-Vis vests and carrying ever heavier buckets as motorcyclists parked and walked past the collectors on their way to Parliament.

Organisers say that it is an approach they would like to continue at future protests with proceeds going to relevant local charities.

BOARD BOOTS CEO AT MOTORCYCLING NEW ZEALAND

Press Release From Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ)

After a detailed operational review of it’s current staffing structure and requirements, the Board of Motorcycling New Zealand Inc., acting on the recommendations of HR company Directioneering Ltd, have moved to restructure their organisation.

The review included a comprehensive consultation process, and after consideration of the recommendations and the subsequent feedback, the Board decided to proceed with the new structure, which includes the disestablishment of the current Chief Executive Officer and Administration Manager positions.

The new structure will take effect immediately.

The Board considered it necessary to proceed with the changes to realise organisational efficiencies and a resulting year on year cost savings in six figures.

“The Board looked carefully at the total proposal and are now looking forward to moving forward,” said President Jim Tuckerman from his Auckland base.

SUPER X HAMILTON

Words: Todd S.
Pic and related coverage: bikesportnz.com

Fantastic, brilliant and all those other superlatives. That was the sixth round of the Australian Super X championship run in Hamilton's 'Rugby Park' last night.

The spectacle that is Supercross (but for this series called Super 'X' as in the letter for some unknown, one suspects marketing reason)is hard to beat no matter what your thoughts on motorcycling might be.

The outrageous jumps, quick fire race programme and engineered or otherwise hype make it compelling viewing, and then there was the 'Kiwi' component.

The 'lights' class had newly crowned MX champion, Michael Phillips riding for 'a bit of fun'. That bit fun resulted in the closest, nail biting racing of the event. Phillips holding out 'the Aussie', Dan Anderson to win the round. Anderson closing to less than 2/10's of a second at the flag.

In the 'open class', series owner and until last night, runner up, Chad Reed put on a great show, taking the wins in all 4 points scoring races. Reed was in class of his own and now leads the championship with a run into it's final round in Brisbane.

I hope the rest of those watching the event thought it as good as I did. It would be tragic for it not to return and any of the quoted 12,800 strong crowd I'm sure will tell you as much.

SHAFTY'S EICMA MILAN SHOW REPORT

Here's the slide show for a great set of Pictures from Milan by Shafty. 
The text and report below include the captions for each image.

Here's the link to the Flickr Set and the individual pics.

EICMA – the Euro Bike show held in Milan, Italy took place early to mid November attracting Vendors and Visitors from far and wide, but noticeably not Honda or Yamaha.

As you’d expect there was a  strong showing  from Euro manufacturers.

MV Augusta’s display included a gorgeous Stealth F4 model 051, along with a 1090R Brutalé Cannonball  059 in black and white with the current trendy stubby exhaust. Their 990R ‘Sport Touring’ was also eye catching in red. 062/064

Ducati’s stand was absolutely teeming with curious bikers checking out, amongst others, the brand spanking new Multistrada 1200 - Image 451 and 1200s Touring Edition - Image 444 – weighing in at 192kg, and sporting an Ohlins electronic monoshock, single sided swing arm with ABS as standard.

It was nice to see a Monster in orange for a change - Image 431, - Image 434 – this one an 1100 (ABS avail) with a rather young rider, looking good as did the 1198R alloy tank Corse. Motards were popular this year with a Duke Formula Hyper-Motard  1100 Evo 436 displayed in ‘black denim’ at €11700 basic or the Hyper-Motard  1100 Evo SP 441 at €13990.

The touring kitted GT1000 was a delight to behold – Gentleman Tourer. - Image 459

Elsewhere Ducati also displayed an electric pushbike, - which were much promoted by several suppliers.- Image 170

Benelli had their Tré series -all 1130 triples, in Tré-K– (Road), Amazonas (Adventure) and Cafe Racer modes, with a stunning example of their 6 cylinder Sei 750 model - Image 158 from the 1970’s also on display.

BMW had a huge stand, with at least 2 R1000ss - Image 537 bikes for punters to crawl all over (Also featured on the Dellorto stand), the F800R - Image 530 of course, was also popular – and a 6 cylinder Concept bike simply referred to as Concept 6, - Image 542/3/4/5 was a major head turner – you’ve gotta love that exhaust. Factory output target named as 170NM of torque. You saw it here first Folks!

Moto Guzzi’s stand was perhaps the most spectacular, with huge numbers poring over their display bikes, including some very special new offerings. Check out the V7, 750 Clubman Racer - Image 353/355 for instance, a great example of modern nostalgia, or the futuristic V12X, 1151cc - Image 357 -362 with an interesting swing arm arrangement,  and LED lighting.

The V12 LM 363 – 371 also looking like something out of Star Trek with a floating integrated fully adjustable Ohlins racing monoshock – and a very clever tyre tread! The retro V7 346 was also there, in touring trim and attracting admiring looks.

Adventure riding was represented by the Stelvia NTX1200 ABS. - Image 373/375

Also on display was a 1200 Norge as used by Polizia Locale! - Image 342/224

It was great to see Buell there – with both 1125 Rotax models on display - Image 133, as well as some ‘90’s models and their 1987 RR1000 Battletwin Stars and Stripes racer. - Image 136 My bet is that a company with such a great product and following won’t be out of the scene for long if at all.

Suzuki’s large stand focussed on the Gladius - Image 152 with the winner of the ’Gladius Cup’ on display, the best looking Cop ever - Image 143, mounted on a GSV R Racer, a ketchup coloured, Yoshi stickered GSX-R 750 Special - Image 144 as well as a newly styled M800 Intruder, a la M109.- Image 138

Kawasaki impressed with a new version of their popular Versys model - Image 296 – and a spunky touring version of the same, 318 as well as a restyled Z1000 - Image 299, 304. The new ‘CHIPS look-a-like’ 1700 Vulcan also appeared, sporting a deep lustre paint scheme. - Image 312/313

 An Orange Crush was evident on the KTM stand, with a beautiful RC8 Redbull Edition - Image 423, a 690SM Limited Edition 654cc Motard - Image 504 in black amongst others- and two new concept bikes – a 125  Stunt bike - Image 491 in lime and white and a 125 Racing bike - Image 495 in orange and white – testing the waters.

Triumph had plenty to show – the Rocket III of course (like the one seen later outside pulling very impressive wheelstands), the just released 1600 Thunderbird - Image 560, 561 in various guises, including a stunning red edition, an equally impressive 1050 Speed Triple in a gloss red carbon fibre look, their wide range of 900 parallel twins - Image 557, the Tiger and a separate display of independently customised bikes - Image 565, 562 – clever marketing and every success deserved.

The Polaris owned Victory brand drew many admirers, myself included, with their impressively finished and thought-out Hammer, Vision, Cross Country and Jackpot models – all very desirable. - Image 478,479,480,484

Moto Morini – being a local marquee was enthusiastically represented with a Corsaro - Image 471, 1200GT - Image 474 and GrandPasso 1200 on display...

Scooters were represented everywhere –  - Image 594, 599, 631, 635, 284 they certainly play a huge part in making cities like Milan work – they at least number 1:1 with cars, with common sense allowing them to park courteously on foot paths. Both petrol and electric were represented, 2 wheel and three – hey I even saw a Gal commuting in the dedicated Taxi/Bus/Bike lanes on a quad.- Image 394

With the current controversy over registration/ACC, I can see why a focus could become on electric bicycles  and tiny scooters – but I also but hope and pray it doesn’t come to that.

Amongst the throng, a couple of examples stood – a new concept scoot from Piaggio designated the USB, Urban Sport Bike - Image 626,629, and a prototype of a name from the past,- Lambretta, a name which will no doubt rekindle fond memories of days gone by, with a stylish new retro 125cc 4 stroke – watch this space. - Image 641

Outside – if you could drag yourself away from the sights, was an array of entertainment, with Suzy and Kawaka (Good on you Guys) offering test rides - Image 652, trials and stunt shows - Image 654, 655 and everything in between

The show was just amazing. As a first time visitor and long time enthusiast it was a delight – “full ya boots” as it were. The organisation and the venue were absolutely outstandingly professional.

That’s a bucket list item ticked off.

Get along.

Shafty

SUZUKI SCORES ANOTHER HAT-TRICK

NOVEMBER 16, 2009: Everyone was again chasing Mount Maunganui's Cody Cooper at the weekend, this time at the fourth and final round of this year's New Zealand Motocross Championships in a rain-soaked Taranaki.

In all, Cooper won more races than any other rider in the glamour MX1 class -- taking the chequered flag in seven of the 12 races in the Demon Energy-sponsored series -- but it was still not enough and he fell short of the title by just two points.

Consistent riding from Christchurch's Justin McDonald was sufficient to see him take the crown instead.

Unfortunately for Cooper, his total dominance of the class at rounds three and four could not undo the damage caused by the injury-plagued early phase of his campaign.

The MotoGB-supported rider had to cope with serious hand and face injuries at round one in Timaru and round two in Rotorua respectively and he even found himself on the receiving end of a rock in New Plymouth on Sunday.

"I could barely see out of my right eye in that last race," said Cooper.

"I got a rock in the face from the rear wheel of a lapped rider and everything was blurry," he explained.

But, despite that handicap, Cooper was in stellar form at the weekend.

The Suzuki star romped to yet another hat-trick of convincing wins in the glamour MX1 class, taking his fuel-injected RM-Z450 to the front early in each race at the muddy Taranaki track, and then steadily building his advantage from there, each time finishing well ahead of McDonald.

"The bike was awesome," said Cooper afterwards. "I raced one of these in America in 2008 and absolutely loved it then too (when he finished fifth in the high-profile US national championships). The bike turns so well and has so much power, it's unbelievable.

"I proved I was the fastest guy out there this year but I had a little bit of bad luck."

Fellow Suzuki rider Brad Groombridge, of Taupo, moved up to third in the MX1 championship. Groombridge finished 3-5-3 in his three outings on Sunday, giving him a podium result in his first season in the big bike class.

In the MX2 class, the battle continued at Taranaki between Kiwi internationals Michael Phillips, of Rotorua, and Queenstown’s Scott Columb.

The pair had been level-pegging throughout the series but Phillips’ 5-1-2 results gave him the points he needed to take the title.

Suzuki's Columb, who had been racing the bigger RM-Z450 in Europe earlier this season, took a stock standard fuel-injected RM-Z250 to 8-2-1 results on Sunday, sealing the runner-up ranking for this season.

In the fight for under-21 honours in the 125cc class, Waitakere's Ethan Martens won the title ahead of Wanganui Suzuki star Tom Managh.

Managh (RM125) had been running third in the class but came on strong at New Plymouth to surge up the standings.

Managh finished 3-3-4 on Sunday to finish the championship 62 points behind Martens.

Source: Suzuki NZ

WIN, WIN DAY FOR TEAM HONDA

Win, Win Day for Team Honda NZ at Nationals Motocross

Arriving as leaders to both MX1 and MX2 Championships, Team Honda was focused on making it a consistent weekend to follow a consistent season of podiums and no mechanical DNFs.

As it was not the foregone conclusion the stats might have lead some to believe, the teamwork and preparation really needed to count today - and it did. A short season at four venues this year meant a DNF in any Moto can have a disastrous effect for anyone's lead, so the Honda CRFs also had to perform well and stay on the podiums - which they again also did.

Taranaki is known for toppling leaders at the last round, as the last three seasons have shown that. So on proven 2009 model CRF race bikes the Honda team achieved greatness in the rain this weekend to leave as Champions twice with the two crowns they were so close to when they arrived at the well groomed but muddy track.

The Red Riders took apart the championship challenges from the Suzuki teams and united they showed their excellent riding skills.

Honda rider Peter Broxholme, won overall for the day in MX2 250cc, with Championship leader teammate Michael Phillips getting runner up 2nd and clinching the crown doing enough to see off Scott Columb, Suzuki.

In MX1 Justin McDonald, Honda, brought his 2009 bike from the South Island to get 2nd Overall Runner up for the day behind Cody Cooper, Suzuki who won the day. But again, McDonald riding clever and doing enough to keep the points gap from earlier rounds won the championship.

Both trophies are also attributable to Team Manager mentoring from Shayne King and the Honda Motorcycles NZ team who've helped the riders finish with typical Honda precision engineering and planning. Team Manager Shayne King commented "Wow! What a weekend for Honda; all the team rode amazing in the conditions. Justin winning the MX1 and Michael winning MX2 it sure made for a fun series. But, also both Peter and Cameron were true team players throughout I am just so happy."

The week of recovery work since Patetonga proved to work well for MX1 1st place winner Justin McDonald. Justin was right when he said "I feel this is my year". McDonald went on to add "As expected the weather was wet which meant that I had to ride smart. I would like to thank my sponsors, team manager Shayne King and Honda. Without there support this wouldn't have been possible".

MX2 winner Michael Phillips said "It was a tough weekend with the hard and slippery weather conditions. Both Justin and I rode smart and came away with the titles. A big thank you goes out to the team, Shayne King, our mechanics and all other team members."

Peter Broxholme added "It was a good weekend racing and I am happy with my placing, especially as we won on the 09 bikes. I am looking forward to the 2010 championship".

The 2009 CRFs are still in store for sale until February 2010 so it looks like the best last year is still the best this year! Talk to your local Honda dealer about the CRFs and our Scorchin' Summer deals, or check out www.hondadeals.co.nz

For further information on these and other events visit www.honda-motorcycles.co.nz

Championship Final Results of the 2009 Demon Energy NZ MX Champs

MX1:
1. Justin McDonald (Honda)
2. Cody Cooper (Suzuki)
3. Brad Groombridge (Suzuki)

MX2:
1. Michael Phillips (Honda)
2. Scott Columb (Suzuki)
3. Peter Broxholme (Honda)

Source: Honda NZ

KTM PRESENTS BRAND NEW INNOVATIONS AT THE EICMA 2009

11/11/2009 Milan, Italy.

KTM is presenting a range of innovative new motorcycles at EICMA 2009, recognized as the world's biggest annual motorcycle trade fair. On show will be a radical new 350cc Motocross prototype, the new Duke 690R and future models in the 125cc segment.

KTM 350 SX-F FACTORY RACING
By presenting a 350cc pre-series racing bike, KTM again illustrates the typical determination of the Austrian company to go its own way. With the confirmation in Milan of the key data of the 350cc, including injection and linkage, the tradition-rich offroad specialist is forging "a new path" in Motocross.

While the company's 250 SX-F and 450 SX-F models have been so successful and oriented to suit the specific displacement of the sport's regulations, now KTM is the first manufacturer in the world to present a 350cc displacement bike for the sport of Motocross.

The completely new bike, which will be "ready to race" from 2010 carries the distinct development signature of MX legend Stefan Everts right down to the finest detail. With this project, the KTM MX team boss deploys meticulousness and all his unique ambition to catapult it to a new MX level. A concrete date for series production of this already very mature prototype has not yet been decided.

"KTM 125"
The developers at KTM don't have to learn about being consistent - it is a part of their natural daily creative process. Together with the company's enthusiastic customers, the Duke, Super Duke, RC8R and Adventure are all proof of this philosophy. Now this same dynamic is also evident in a smaller displacement bike segment with the introduction of a range of 125 cc products that have been one hundred percent developed at the company headquarters in Mattighofen, Austria.

The four-valve cylinder head, water cooling, fuel injection, two overhead cam shafts and 15 hp all demonstrate the desire for the highest level of technological development. The latticed tubular steel frame is the guarantee of perfect riding fun. As always, the very succinct KTM appearance comes from the extremely creative Kiska design team.

High quality suppliers like WP Suspension and Brembo are the guarantee of premium quality components throughout. Coming with individual design possibilities, these completely newly constructed motorcycles are a breath of fresh air for the segment.

Duke 690R
For KTM, the range of single cylinder LC4s represent tradition, legend and future and well as performance, rideability and the smooth, quiet, harmonious running of the engine.

When KTM introduced this motor concept in 2007, it elevated single cylinder enjoyment to a level that to date has not been surpassed. With the presentation of the Duke 690 in 2008 KTM caused another sensation among the worldwide community of Duke fans. But KTM wouldn't be KTM when the ambitious developer wasn't set on constant improvement and innovation. Now 70 full-blooded hp packed into a vehicle weight of just 148 kg lend the Duke 690 R unrivalled panache. Highest quality components and the unique optics are also typical KTM. As well as the highly potent motor, the 690R also features the orange frame specially reserved for the R models. Carbon mudguards, an extremely sophisticated fork and the new orange rear damper spring are among the outstanding features of the Duke R. Other improvements include an extended maintenance interval and ensure that this very hot street bike will continue to have no serious rivals.

All round and in very best form
As well as the very latest models, KTM also exhibits other models at EICMA that make the line-up of sports motorcycles for the model year 2010 broader and more attractive than ever. These also include the rare RC8R Akrapovic Race Replica; homage to KTM's impressive first season in Superbike, while the company is also exhibiting the successful twin Red Bull Replica for the first time. Meanwhile, in honour of the amazing success of the KTM MX factory riders Max Nagl and Marvin Musquin, the motor sports company is also displaying genuine replicas of the MX1 and MX2 racing machines - naturally with orange coloured frames.

All current model updates and new optics are being presented in Milan along with the comprehensive range of KTM PowerWear and PowerParts products. With qualitatively better clothing ranges and performance-oriented spare parts and extras, the brand illustrates the Austrian lifestyle in best "Ready to Race" style.


Source: KTM

YAMAHA RACING TAKE VICTORY AT EMOTION FILLED CANBERRA EVENT

9/11/2009

After one of the most difficult weeks of his life, Yamaha rider Jay Marmont has claimed victory at the fourth round of the Monster Energy Super X Series in Canberra tonight.

With his daughter, Lila passing away just days ago, Marmont was inspirational, showing true professionalism and extraordinary strength in winning tonight's event.


In the Pro Lites, Kyle Cunningham bounced back from a fall in the opening race to win his first race since joining Serco Yamaha for the Australian Supercross season.
The fifth round of the 2009 Monster Energy Super X series will take place at Parramatta Stadium on Saturday November 14, 2009.

Pro Open Report
Jay Marmont has completed one of the most inspiring performances seen in Supercross history with the CDR Rockstar Yamaha rider taking victory at round four of the Monster Energy Super X series at Canberra Stadium tonight.
Marmont, who took the holeshot in each race and finished each of tonight's three motos second, third and first, dedicated his victory to his daughter, Lila who passed away on Thursday.


CDR Rockstar Yamaha Team Principal, Craig Dack said that after placing no pressure on Marmont to compete, the victory is one which he will remember forever.
"On behalf of the CDR Rockstar Yamaha team and Yamaha Motor Australia, tonight we salute Jay Marmont - a true champion and an incredible person along with his wife Abby who is an unsung hero after everything they have been through over the last six months," Dack said.
"To achieve what he [Jay Marmont] did tonight, will hold a place in our hearts forever."

While the crowd rode each lap of the race with Marmont it was a challenging night on track for his team-mate, Cheyne Boyd who fell during the first race and had his brake torn off. He recovered from the DNF and claimed 19th in the second race before finishing second to Marmont in the final race.

Monster Energy Super X Pro Open Round Four points
1. Jay MARMONT, Yamaha, 25
2. Daniel McCOY, KTM, 22
3. Dan REARDON, Honda,20
4. Michael BYRNE, Honda, 18
5. Tye SIMMONDS, KTM, 16
6. Chad REED, Kawasaki, 15
7. Troy CARROLL, Kawasaki, 14
8. Jeremy McGRATH, Honda, , 13
9. Craig ANDERSON, Kawasaki, 12
10. Cameron TAYLOR, Suzuki, 11
15.Cheyne BOYD, Yamaha, 6

Monster Energy Super X Pro Open championship standings
1. Dan REARDON, Honda, 89
2. Jay MARMONT, Yamaha,88
3. Chad REED, Kawasaki, 82
4. Tye SIMMONDS, KTM, 68
5. Daniel McCOY, KTM, 62
6. Cody MACKIE, Kawasaki, 54
7. Cheyne BOYD,Yamaha, 54
8. Craig ANDERSON, Kawasaki, 48
9. Cameron TAYLOR,Suzuki, 47
10. Troy CARROLL, Kawasaki, 45

Pro Lite Report
Serco Yamaha's Kyle Cunningham has recorded his first ever Monster Energy Super X race victory with the young American the first to the finish line in tonight's second race of the Triple Challenge at Canberra Stadium.

Unfortunately for Cunningham the race victory was not enough to provide him with his fourth consecutive podium finish after the YZ250F rider finished 18th and third in the other two races of the evening.The result means that Cunningham has slipped two positions in the championship to fourth.

"I got the heat victory then in the first moto, I came out a bit short on the triple and fell and couldn't get my bike started, so I finished way behind the lead pack which was pretty disappointing," Cunningham said.
"I was able to get the holeshot from the outside in the second race and won by four seconds and then in the third moto got caught up and lost a lot of time there and then got sixth overall."

Cunningham's team-mate, Kirk Gibbs finished inside the top three in the opening race before a fall in the second race saw the YZ250F rider finish the race in 16th position. He was able to recover and claim sixth in the final race and eighth for the round.
"My bike was good tonight, I struggled a bit during practice but we sorted a few of the issues out over the night and I felt quite comfortable," Gibbs said.
"I fell in the second race and my knee is a bit sore but I will back on the bike during the week and ready for Parramatta next weekend."

Yamaha supported rider, Ryan Marmont represented the manufacturer on the podium by finishing second overall.


Monster Energy Super X Pro Lites Round Four
1. Matt MOSS, Suzuki, 25
2. Ryan MARMONT, Yamaha, 22
3. Lawson BOPPING, Suzuki, 20
4. Luke STYKE, Yamaha, 18
5. Brendan HARRISON, Yamaha, 16
6. Kyle CUNNINGHAM, Yamaha, 15
7. Danny Anderson, KTM, 14
8. Kirk GIBBS, Yamaha, 13
9. Lewis Woods, Kawasaki, 12
10. Taylor POTTER, KTM, 11

Monster Energy Super X Pro Lites championship standings
1. Matt MOSS, Suzuki, 100
2. Lawson BOPPING, Suzuki, 78
3. Ryan MARMONT, Yamaha, 75
4. Kyle CUNNINGHAM, Yamaha, 75
5. Brendan HARRISON, Yamaha, 59
6. Kirk GIBBS, Yamaha, 56
7. Lewis WOODS, Kawasaki, 47
8. Danny ANDERSON, KTM, 46
9. Adam MONEA, Suzuki, 46
10. Luke ARBON, Kawasaki , 36



Words & Images: Yamaha Racing

WR450F ENGINE WEDGED INTO TRACK CAR

University of Auckland Formula SAE

The University of Auckland race car team, FSAE:47, are currently in the final stages of preparing their 2009 car -the M09 - for competition in Australia in December. The team consists of approximately 30 students, who each year partake in the Formula SAE challenge, competing against teams from rival Universities from around the world. Each team must design, build and race their car themselves, as well as fund the team by sourcing sponsorship.


The M09's power train is a design departure from previous years and sees the car running on a highly modified single cylinder Yamaha WR450 with a custom crankcase. Early testing has shown the M09 to be incredibly competitive, showing improvements on the already impressive M08’s performance. The monocoque has returned from paint and is looking fantastic. All that remains now is to fine tune and test the car and get it into tip top shape ahead of the competition.


Last year the team placed 2nd in the design event, outperforming top teams from Australia, Germany and Japan, and with the progress made this year we have high hopes of achieving even better results. For more info please visit our website www.fsae.co.nz.

Words & Images: Bryan Wiggill

FIRST DUCATI STORY IN CHINA

SHANGHAI’S “MADE IN ITALY” SHOWCASE FOR DUCATI

Gabriele Del Torchio (Ducati Motor Holding President), together with Cristiano Silei (Ducati Vice President Sales) and Mirko Bordiga (Ducati Asia Pacific CEO), officially cut the ribbon at the inauguration of Ducati Shanghai, the first official store in China for the famous Italian motorcycle manufacturer late last month.

With this significant opening, Ducati is officially present in the Chinese motorcycle market.

According to Ducati the revision of vehicle use and registration rules within the most important Chinese cities has contributed to taking this important step. Growing recognition of Italian products in China, and in particular large capacity motorcycles, has further identified Ducati as the world-wide ambassador of “made in Italy“ excellence.

“In terms of potential development, the Asian Pacific Region today represents the most dynamic and interesting area worldwide,” declared Ducati President Gabriele Del Torchio during the store opening ceremony. “Ducati, whose dynamic mission has always been performance excellence, had to be present with a solid structure in this part of the world.

Last year we incorporated the regional offices in Shanghai and today we are happy and proud to announce our official presence in the Chinese market. Through our distribution network, we take on the prestigious role of “made in Italy” ambassadors with our motorcycles, renown all over the world for their sophisticated performance, technological innovation and winning tradition.

By opening in China, Ducati is present all over the world. The markets where our bikes are sold are now up to 80. This is not just the achievement of an important and significant number – it confirms our commitment towards the challenge we launched for the future.

Given the speed of Chinese economic development and growing interest towards “made in Italy”, we are convinced this is a tremendous opportunity for Ducati. We are proud to be here in China and, with this opening, mark the start a long and constructive road ahead."

Ends

GROOMBRIDGE STEPS UP

Words & Pic: Suzuki

OCTOBER 26, 2009: With his team boss sidelined through injury, it was expected that Taupo’s Brad Groombridge would step up and fill the void.
And that’s exactly what the 19-year-old did on his home track in Taupo on Sunday.
Groombridge took his Suzuki RM-Z450 to three wins from three starts at the sand and pumice-based Digger McEwen Motorcycle Park facility in Taupo’s industrial area, winning both the MX1 class outright and also taking the main prize for the day at the annual Labour Weekend Extravaganza when he won the all-comers champion-of-champions Nicky Smith Memorial feature race as well.
He finished ahead of Hamilton’s two-time former world No.2 Darryll King in both the MX1 class battle and the feature race.
“It was a perfect day really,” said an ecstatic Groombridge afterwards.
“Darryll King really gave me a run for my money and I really felt the pressure from him, but I held on to win the feature race.
“I knew he was coming hard at me over those last few laps, so I had to find some extra pace too.
“To get my name on the Nicky Smith Memorial trophy is pretty special. There are not too many Taupo names on that.
“I was riding (injured team-mate) Daryl Hurley’s 2010 model bike and that made a huge difference. His 2010 model has so much more power than my regular 2009 bike. With Daryl sidelined, this is the bike I will have now for the rest of the season.
“I can’t wait now for the next round of the nationals (near Morrinsville in a fortnight, on November 8).”
Groombridge is currently fourth overall in the national series after two of four rounds.
Brad Groombridge and Team Suzuki are supported by Action Suzuki of Hawera, Elf lubricants, Fox apparel, Scott goggles, Bridgestone tyres, Renthal handlebars, Demon Energy, Asplundt, FMF, DID Acerbis and Eziup.
In the meantime, while Groombridge was winning the weekend's main prize, fellow Suzuki riders Dion Picard and Tom Managh was also enjoying success.
National junior champion Picard, from Atiamuri, lived up to his star billing by winning two of the day's three races and finishing runner-up in the third race, to claim top honours in the 12-14 years' 125cc class.
Wanganui's Managh had a particularly busy weekend, riding his Suzuki RM125 to runner-up spot in the 15-16 years' 125cc class, just behind Mangakino's Kayne Lamont and ahead of fellow Suzuki rider Joshua Jack (Auckland).
Ironman Managh also rode out on a Suzuki RM-Z250 to tackle the four-stroke class, finishing a close runner-up to Manawatu's Tom Hughes.
Managh also rode the following day, lining up against the seniors, and finished fourth in the senior 125cc class, an outstanding all-around effort from the talented teenager.

TRIUMPH'S SECOND PODIUM

WSS'09 Round 14 | Portimao, race day
ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Racing ended the World Supersport Championship on the podium.
Garry McCoy confirmed, after Valentino Rossi, that "Old hens make the best soup".
The Australian took third place, as he did at Donington, after a brilliant race during which he fought and defeated the new World Champion Cal Crutchlow after a great battle.
The second podium in Triumph's history in World Supersport has a special meaning and is the perfect ending of a fantastic season for Giuliano Rovelli's BE1 team.
Chaz Davies rode a positive race as well, as he finished seventh after fixing the issues that slowed him down in practice and scored another great result, after the fourth place at Imola.
Thanks to this excellent season finale, ParkinGO Triumph BE1 Racing climbed up two spots in the manufacturers' standings where they finished fifth, while Garry McCoy finished eighth in the riders' standings.

GARRY McCOY | Triumph Daytona 675 | 3rd:
"I'm really happy to have ended the season in style, with a second podium result in the team's young history.
We did a great job this weekend, the bike was just perfect so I could give 100%. I got a good start and I was fifth at the end of the first lap, and I kept that position into the fourth, when Lascorz, who was in front of me, crashed. I then overtook Crutchlow after three more laps. He was really close behind me for a while then I opened a gap between the two of us of about two seconds and kept it until the chequered flag.
I want to thank the entire team for a great job done this season. We got better everytime and we did all this together despite the fact that not some many people thought that was possible".

CHAZ DAVIES | Triumph Daytona 675 | 7th:
"I'm really grateful to Giuliano who gave me the opportunity to race in World Supersport. I rode only three races but I believe I did well although I know I can definitely improve, especially in qualifying practice.
I got a good start today, I engaged in a nice duel with Foret and overtook Veneman by the end and finished seventh".

GIULIANO ROVELLI - TEAM MANAGER:
"It was a fantastic way of ending the season: with a podium. We worked hard, we improved the bike so much that we got twice on the podium and scored many great results as well.
I have to thank Garry McCoy who proved that the entire squad lead by Lucio Nicastro did a marvellous job.
I'm also happy with Chaz Davies' performance who scored two great results without even knowing the tracks but did very well on his Triumph Daytona 675.
These results repay us for the efforts we have made and motivates Triumph to continue and hopefully you'll se us again in 2010, when we should set even higher goals".

Race Standings:
1 50 Laverty E. (IRL) Honda CBR600RR 35'17.044 (156,173 kph)
2 54 Sofuoglu K. (TUR) Honda CBR600RR 3.443
3 24 McCoy G. (AUS) Triumph Daytona 675 13.874
4 35 Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R6 15.144
5 8 Aitchison M. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 16.608
6 51 Pirro M. (ITA) Yamaha YZF R6 20.008
7 23 Davies C. (GBR) Triumph Daytona 675 22.007
8 99 Foret F. (FRA) Yamaha YZF R6 22.034
9 77 Veneman B. (NED) Honda CBR600RR 23.031
10 117 Praia M. (POR) Honda CBR600RR 24.002
11 1 Pitt A. (AUS) Honda CBR600RR 31.794
12 36 Cardenas M. (COL) Honda CBR600RR 31.811
13 21 Fujiwara K. (JPN) Kawasaki ZX-6R 32.218
14 25 Laverty M. (GBR) Honda CBR600RR 33.196
15 101 Coghlan K. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R6 1'02.386

Riders Standings:
1 C. Crutchlow GBR 243
2 E. Laverty IRL 236
3 K. Sofuoglu TUR 189
4 J. Lascorz ESP 163
5 F. Foret FRA 123
6 A. Pitt AUS 119
7 A. West AUS 117
8 G. McCoy AUS 98
9 M. Aitchison AUS 93
10 K. Fujiwara JPN 73
11 M. Roccoli ITA 70
12 M. Pirro ITA 70
13 B. Veneman NED 58
14 M. Lagrive FRA 45
15 M. Praia POR 40
...
20 C. Davies GBR 22

Bruno Sandrini
Press | Addetto stampa

KTM TO UNVEIL NEW MOTOCROSS GENERATION IN MILAN!

The worlds largest Motorcycle Fair EICMA in Milan (10-15 November 2009) is the perfect stage to unveil to the public, what the future of Motocross looks like at KTM!

The worlds 1st unveiling of a completely new MX motorcycle form at the KTM booth on November 10 (Hall 18, stand M68), represents a significant step toward “defining new lines”. This presentation is the next logical step for the Austrian Motorcycle manufacturer. As it’s traditions and results based operation dictates a certain path to continue its development in motor sports.

The results gathered in international competition in the year 2009 give great pride to and encourage the crew in Mattighofen. The MX2 World champion Marvin Musquin, the runner up MX1 World Champion Max Nagel, and of course, the Female MX World Champion Steffi Laier, have all contributed to, and benefitted from the clear and consequent development at KTM.

It is exactly here, where the vision of the KTM developers begins. This racing pedigree and ongoing development, is the key to “defining new lines”. There is one man whom this new motocross generation centres on: The MX-legend, multiple World champion and KTM MX Factory Team Boss Stefan Everts!
This is to make sure that KTM has, and always be “Ready to Race”!


Source: KTM New Zealand

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES STRATEGY

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES 3RD QUARTER RESULTS, UNVEILS LONG-TERM BUSINESS STRATEGY

Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales Decline Moderates from 2nd Quarter

Operating Loss at Finance Unit Impacts Profit

Strategy Focuses on Extending Harley-Davidson Brand, Emphasizes Productivity and Strengthening Core Business

Company to Discontinue Buell Product Line, Divest MV Agusta

H-D Press Release MILWAUKEE, October, 15, 2009

Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE:HOG) announced decreased revenue, net income and earnings per share for the third quarter of 2009 compared to the year-ago period, while reporting a moderation in the decline of retail new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales compared to the second quarter.
Worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles declined 21.3 percent in the third quarter compared to last year's third quarter, an improvement from the 30.1 percent decline in this year's second quarter. An 84.1 percent decline in net income and an 84.5 percent decline in diluted earnings per share from the year-ago quarter reflected lower motorcycle shipments and the effects of the economy on retail and wholesale loan performance at Harley-Davidson Financial Services.
Harley-Davidson also unveiled major elements of its go-forward business strategy to drive growth through a single-minded focus of efforts and resources on the unique strengths of the Harley-Davidson brand, and to enhance productivity and profitability through continuous improvement. As approved yesterday by Harley-Davidson's Board of Directors, the Company will discontinue its Buell product line and divest its MV Agusta unit as part of this strategy.
"While the environment remains challenging for us, we are mildly encouraged by the moderation in the decline of dealer retail Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales," said Keith Wandell, Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "And moving forward, our strategy is designed to strengthen Harley-Davidson for long-term growth and deliver results through increased focus.
"As our announcement regarding Buell and MV Agusta indicates, we are moving with the speed and decisiveness required to bring our business strategy to life," said Wandell. "The fact is we must focus both our effort and our investment on the Harley-Davidson brand, as we believe this provides an optimal path to sustained, meaningful, long-term growth."

Third Quarter and Nine-Month Results
Net income for the third quarter was $26.5 million, compared to $166.5 million in the third quarter of 2008, on revenue of $1.12 billion, compared to $1.42 billion in the year-ago period. Diluted earnings per share were $0.11 for the third quarter of 2009 and $0.71 in the year-ago period.
Through nine months, Harley-Davidson, Inc. reported net income of $163.6 million, down 71.6 percent and diluted earnings per share of $0.70, down 71.4 percent from the year-ago period. Revenue through nine months was $3.57 billion, down 17.1 percent from the same period last year.

"Delivering Results Through Focus" Strategy
A key element of the Company's go-forward strategy is to focus on extending the Harley-Davidson brand by leveraging unique Harley-Davidson strengths. The strategy focuses company resources on Harley-Davidson products and experiences, global expansion, demographic outreach and commitment to core customers. In addition, the Company will continue to expand its initiatives to enhance profitability through continuous improvement in manufacturing, product development and business operations.
"We are refocusing our business with the expectation that we can provide growth that is both profitable and sustainable over the long term," said Wandell. "We believe we can create a bright long-term future for our stakeholders through a single-minded focus on the Harley-Davidson brand."
The Company said it would share additional details about the strategy during its investor conference call today.

Details of Buell and MV Agusta Actions
The Company will discontinue production of Buell motorcycles. Remaining inventories of Buell motorcycles, accessories and apparel, while they last, will continue to be sold through authorized dealerships. Warranty coverage will continue as normal for Buell motorcycles and the Company will provide replacement parts and service through dealerships.
The decision will result in a reduction over time of about 80 hourly production positions and about 100 salaried positions at Buell. Employment will end for a majority of Buell employees Dec. 18, 2009.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. expects to incur approximately $125 million in one-time costs related to the discontinuation of the Buell product line. The Company expects to incur approximately $115 million of that amount this year.
Relative to MV Agusta, the Company will immediately commence efforts to sell the business, which is based in Varese, Italy.
In the third quarter, Harley-Davidson, Inc. recorded a one-time fixed-asset impairment charge of $14.2 million related to Buell and a goodwill impairment charge of $18.9 million related to MV Agusta.
"Buell and MV Agusta are great companies, with proud brands, high-quality exciting products and passionate enthusiasm for the motorcycle business. Buell has introduced many innovative advancements in motorcycle design and technology over the years and MV Agusta is known in Europe for its premium, high-performance sport motorcycles. However, our strategy to focus on the Harley-Davidson brand reflects the fact that we believe our investments in that brand are a better utilization of overall company resources," said Wandell.

Motorcycles and Related Products Segment
Third Quarter. Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the third quarter of 2009 was $803.3 million, down 22.1 percent compared to the year-ago period. The Company shipped 54,236 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide, down 27.4 percent from the third quarter of 2008 but in line with previous guidance of 52,000 to 57,000 units. Revenue from Parts and Accessories totaled $221.8 million during the quarter, down 14.4 percent and revenue from General Merchandise was $70.7 million during the quarter, down 15.9 percent compared to the year-ago period. Gross margin was 33.1 percent of revenue for the quarter compared to 34.0 percent in the year-ago quarter. Operating margin was 9.5 percent compared to 16.4 percent in the third quarter of 2008. Operating margin was affected largely by lower gross margin, restructuring charges and impairment charges.
Nine Months. Through nine months, revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $2.62 billion compared to $3.23 billion in 2008 on shipments of 187,085 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, compared to 226,898 motorcycles in 2008. Revenue from Parts and Accessories totaled $623.1 million during the first nine months, down 11.8 percent and revenue from General Merchandise was $215.5 million during the nine-month period, down 12.0 percent compared to the year-ago period. Gross margin was 34.6 percent and operating margin was 14.1 percent, compared to 35.4 percent and 18.9 percent respectively in the year-ago period.
Retail Motorcycle Sales. During the third quarter, retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 21.3 percent worldwide, 24.3 percent in the U.S. and 13.1 percent in international markets, compared to the prior-year quarter. Industry-wide U.S. retail heavyweight (651cc+) motorcycle sales declined 35.9 percent during the quarter, compared to the year-ago period.
For 2009 compared to 2008 through nine months, retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 22.9 percent worldwide, 25.5 percent in the U.S. and 16.5 percent in international markets. Industry-wide U.S. retail heavyweight motorcycle sales declined 38.7 percent year to date in 2009, compared to 2008.

Harley-Davidson Financial Services
Harley-Davidson Financial Services recorded an operating loss of $31.5 million for the third quarter of 2009 compared to an operating profit of $35.6 million in the third quarter of 2008. This decrease of $67.2 million was due to a higher provision for credit losses in both the retail and wholesale portfolios as well as increased interest expense. Year to date through the third quarter, HDFS reported an operating loss of $110.8 million, compared to operating income of $107.7 million for the prior year period. The nine-month operating loss includes two non-cash charges recorded in the second quarter of 2009: a $72.7 million credit loss provision for a one-time reclassification of motorcycle loan receivables; and a one-time $28.4 million charge to write off goodwill associated with HDFS.
HDFS continues to successfully access the credit markets to fund its lending activities. On October 9, HDFS completed a $700 million term securitization transaction with a weighted average interest rate of 1.2 percent.

Update on Restructuring Activities
On a combined basis, the Company expects previously announced restructuring activities, together with the discontinuation of Buell operations, to result in one-time charges of $215 million to $245 million over 2009 and 2010, or an increase of $55 million from the estimate provided July 16, 2009. The Company estimates annual ongoing savings from restructuring of approximately $140 million to $150 million.
The Company continues to pursue its previously announced "two path" study to determine whether additional major restructuring at York, Pa. facility can make those operations competitive and sustainable long term, or alternatively, whether the Company will relocate those operations to another U.S. location. As part of the restructuring analysis, the Company has begun contract talks with the union representing employees at York and expects to make a final decision on the status of the York operations by the end of this year.

Income Tax Rate
The Company's third-quarter effective income tax rate was 61.8 percent compared to 38.2 percent in the same quarter last year. This increase was due primarily to the tax implications of MV Agusta, including the non-deductible write down of goodwill, and the impact of reduced Company earnings. The Company expects its full-year 2009 effective tax rate on continuing operations, excluding MV Agusta, to be approximately 59 percent due to the previously reported one-time charges for the Wisconsin tax law change and the non-deductible goodwill write-off for Harley-Davidson Financial Services, as well as the impact of reduced earnings for the remainder of the year.

Cash Flow
Cash and cash equivalents totaled $1.52 billion as of Sept. 27, 2009, compared to $504.4 million at the end of the year-ago period. Cash provided by operations was $511.1 million and capital expenditures were $89.4 million during the first nine months of 2009. For the full year, capital expenditures are now expected to be $125 million to $145 million, including $15 million to $25 million related to restructuring activities.

Guidance
The Company is narrowing its guidance for full-year 2009 shipments, and now expects to ship 222,000 to 227,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers, including 35,000 to 40,000 during the fourth quarter. The Company continues to expect full-year gross margins to be between 30.5 percent and 31.5 percent.

Company Background
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company (HDMC), Buell Motorcycle Company (Buell), MV Agusta and Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS). Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight custom, touring and cruiser motorcycles. Buell produces American sport performance motorcycles. MV Agusta produces premium, high-performance sport motorcycles sold under the MV Agusta® brand and lightweight sport motorcycles sold under the Cagiva® brand. HDFS provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs primarily to Harley-Davidson and Buell dealers and customers.

Forward-Looking Statements
The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company "believes," "anticipates," "expects," "plans," or "estimates" or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
The Company's ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company's ability to (i) execute its strategy and successfully exit certain product lines and divest certain company assets (ii) effectively execute the Company's restructuring plans within expected costs and timing, (iii) successfully achieve with our labor union partners flexible and cost-effective agreements to accomplish restructuring goals and long-term competitiveness, (iv) manage the risks that our independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital, and adjusting to the recession and slowdown in consumer demand, (v) manage supply chain issues, (vi) anticipate the level of consumer confidence in the economy, (vii) continue to have access to reliable sources of capital funding and adjust to fluctuations in the cost of capital, (viii) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS' loan portfolio, (ix) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (x) manage production capacity and production changes, (xi) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (xii) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (xiii) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers, (xiv) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributor and dealer network, (xv) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (xvi) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (xvii) adjust to healthcare inflation, pension reform and tax changes, (xviii) retain and attract talented employees, (xix) detect any issues with our motorcycles or manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation, and (xx) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology solutions and secure data contained in those systems.
In addition, the Company could experience delays or disruptions in its operations as a result of work stoppages, strikes, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risk factors are impacted by the current turbulent capital, credit and retail markets and our ability to adjust to the recession.
The Company's ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the Company's independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company's independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.