2011 GAS GAS EC ENDURO'S PREVIEW + VIDEO

Slipping under the radar here in New Zealand is the recently released PR from GasGas Motos.

Check out their gorgeous looking 2011 EC 250 & 300 with a newly designed front headlight. Other new features are adjustable SACHS 48 front forks, FMF Q-Stealth silencer, Sachs shock absorber and the improved cooling system with the new radiator cap.



2011 GasGas EC 250 / 300 2T | Enduro Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder 2-stroke, liquid cooled
Displacement 249,3 cc / 299,3 cc
Bore x stroke 66,4 x 72 mm / 72,5 x 72,5 mm
Gearbox 6 speed gearbox with foot control
Clutch Wet multiplate with hydraulic control
Carburettor Keihin 38 mm - Intake by reed valve
Frame Chrom-Molybdenum tubular frame
Swingarm Aluminium, Progressive linkage system
Front fork Sachs 48 mm Up-Side-Down, 295 mm travel
Adjustability Adjustable compression and rebound
Shock absorber Sachs hydraulic mono shock absorber
Adjustability Rebound, compression and spring preload
Suspension travel 310 mm rear wheel travel
Rim type Light aluminium spoke rim
Rim - tyre Front: 1.6 x 21 - 90/90 - 21
Rim - tyre Rear: 2.15 x 18 - 40/80 - 18
Front brake 260 mm wave floating, 2-piston caliper
Rear brake 220 mm wave disc, 1-piston caliper
Fuel 9,5 lt (2-stroke-oil/fuel mixed 1:50)
Dry weight 101 kg / 102 kg
Dimensions Length x width x height: 2.200 x 830 x 1.260 mm
Wheelbase 1.475 mm
Seat height 940 mm

HAMPTON DOWNS RIDE DAY – JULY 10TH

By Ollie S


The California Superbike School couldn’t have asked for better weather conditions on Saturday 10th July for their long awaited re-opening of their Hamptons Downs Ride Days. Despite the mercury slowing rising from a very frosty 3deg in the morning to a slightly more manageable 14deg in the afternoon there was huge turnout of riders from learners to pro’s mixing and mingling with unabated smiles.


The option to ride with other track warriors of similar skill and speed is a hugely popular draw card to the Hampton Downs Ride Days. Not only does it bring out learners and first timers but also pools a magnificent number of reconditioned classic road bikes. Focusing on track only experience, Darren Sweetman and his Californian Superbike School team enforce the track sessions are for track time only and any hint of racing, lap timing or inconsiderate riding is strongly governed.

KR was there testing several Hyosung’s and a new Yamaha R6, with BikeMart man Todd S also nabbing a ride on Sloan “Choppa” Frosts sensationally trick BMW 1000RR. We had Geoff Osborne firing off some frames for an up and coming test/feature, so look out for some cheeky offside images making it to the Kiwi Rider blog and Facebook pages soon.

If you attended the July 10th Hampton Downs Ride Day and looking for your own riding images don’t forget to head over to Andrew Bright’s Championship Digital webpage to view his magnificent work. Andrew attempted to cover all riders so if your picture comes up on his page jump in and have that knee scrub hanging on your office wall, no doubt the images will be tack sharp. The day was absolutely magnificent and the best money can buy on a world-class track.

The next Hampton Downs Ride Day is scheduled for Friday, August 13th. For more information and to guarantee a spot on the tarmac head over to www.hamptondownsridedays.co.nz and book a spot now. Hampton Downs Ride Days are operated by the California Superbike School and are independent of their training courses, although Darren and his friendly team are more than happy to offer advice. If your keen to learn the art of cornering or simply improve your tecniue and riding experience any one of the up and coming California Superbike Schools come highly recommended by Kiwi Rider Magazine. For more information or the California Superbike School course head over to www.californiasuperbikeschool.co.nz

2011 2-STROKE HUSABERGS + VIDEO!

Rumours were rife all over the web that Husaberg were developing a brand new 2-stroke range with odd-ball engine capacities, direct injection and unique 4-stroke type exhausts. While it seems direct injection, odd-ball engine capacities and strange exhuast pipes will have to stay just that - rumour - Husaberg have now officially released a 2-stroke range.


Most likely derived from the KTM 250EXC and 300EXC range, Husaberg's brand new electric start TE250 and TE300 with user selectable maps will surely get the enduro pit tongues wagging!



Below is an excerpt from the official Husaberg press release found over at www.husaberg.com

"As Husaberg has always stood for innovative technology, lightweight construction and sensational handling, it seemed logical to extend the successful 4-stroke model range to include 2-stroke technology as well. As a result, Husaberg is offering two new models - the TE 250 and TE 300 - for the 2011 model year, both powered by state-of-the-art, high-performance, 2-stroke engines.

Husaberg has therefore also opened up an alternative for those who particularly appreciate the well-known characteristics of 2-stroke bikes, such as minimal weight, superb rideability, a lively power delivery, easy to cope-with technology and, last but not least, the low costs of acquisition and maintenance.

At the heart of the two TE models is a compact and extra-lightweight 2-stroke engine with a displacement of 249 cc or 293.2 cc respectively. These power units are equipped with the finest technology, such as an exhaust power-valve and an adjustable ignition (selectable via a switch fitted as standard to the handlebars), which provide the opportunity to adapt the engine characteristics precisely to the needs of the rider and the terrain. The six-gear transmission is also designed precisely for real enduro use. And not to forget, the smooth hydraulic clutch system by Brembo and the small and light electric starter, which is invaluable above all when the strength of the rider is gradually dwindling away.

Just like the 4-stroke Enduros from Husaberg, the TE models are equipped with the latest upside-down forks from WP, featuring closed-cartridge technology. With a sealed, internal damping unit, these forks guarantee unique sensitivity along with efficient and constant damping characteristics throughout the entire suspension travel.

The PDS shock has been tuned in such a way that the settings completely satisfy all requirements in tough enduro use. Greater comfort and better damping is almost impossible. And those who want to refine the tuning of their suspension even further have the option to adjust the rebound and compression damping in a matter of a few clicks. Furthermore, the PDS shock offers separate compression adjustment for high- and low-speed damping.

The two 2-stroke models have been further refined with other top-class components, including billet machined, black-anodised triple clamps, high-strength DID spoked wheels with CNC-machined hubs, the latest Brembo brake components and high-quality, tapered aluminium handlebars. A strong plastic holder is injection-moulded around the aluminium silencer which can be mounted perfectly to the aluminium subframe.
One clear benefit for the rider is provided by the 11-litre fuel tank that allows long off-road stages to be completed and longer intervals to be taken between pit-stops in multi-hour enduro races. Despite its capacity the polyethylene fuel tank offers excellent Enduro ergonomics.

The new Husaberg 2-stroke bikes, which have been named in accordance with the tried and tested Husaberg nomenclature (FE = Four-stroke Enduro, TE = Two-stroke Enduro), also share the fresh appearance of the other Husaberg offroad models and are clearly recognisable as Husabergs, even at a distance."

2010 RED BULL ROMANIACS – BIRCH WINS!

Perhaps one of the most triumphant stories of 2010, Kiwi Off-Road hero and KTM Red Bull athlete Chris Birch has claimed the first Red Bull Romaniacs title of his career. In 2009 he finished second to the hard charging German born BMW rider Andreas Lettenbichler, but what a year 2010 has turned out to be for Birch outclassing all the elements with a never-say-die attitude.

Going into Off-Road Day 4 with just over a 27min lead from the competition Brit rider Graham Jarvis and 34mins ahead of German Lettenbichler, Birch couldn’t afford the slightest mistake. It became a battle of wits and pure endurance as Birch not only rode a near faultless final 126km stage he also did so an incredible 6mins faster than 2nd place finished Graham Jarvis who became the first finisher of Off-Road Day 4 doing it from the back of pack.

With a nation of clammy palmed fans following his every live GPS plot online it was clear from an external perspective that Birch had Red Bull Romaniacs 2010 in the bag. However for Birch it was a very different story. "I'm extremely happy today, because regarding all my technical problems from yesterday, I didn't even think that I would finish the race" says an all smiling Chris Birch who among other competitors battled through the slipperiest conditions of the event both mentally and physically exhausted.

The hard charging 2nd placed Brit Graham Jarvis, like Birch, battled through Red Bull Romaniacs 2010 showing at times some of the most magical riding finesse witnessed in the 2010 event that was plagued with mechanical problems. Jarvis’ 2nd place overall is a true testament to his gritty attitude and the former 2008 winner will be back for more next year.

German Lettenbichler took home the final spot on the podium when he crossed the finish line in unison with Paul Bolton and Jade Gutzeit in front of a huge crowd. Despite not repeating his victory from last year, the exhausted, battered and bruised BMW rider is more than satisfied with his performance. “This year’s race was probably harder than all previous Romaniacs due to the rain. The very first Off-Road day made me exceed my limits, so I'm actually very happy to have reached another podium here.”

Unofficial results for the 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs are:
1 BIRCH Chris (NZL, KTM) 28:17:31 hours
2 JARVIS Graham (UK, Sherco) 28:46:12
3 LETTENBICHLER Andreas (BMW) 29:18:29
4 BOLTON Paul (UK, KTM) 29:52:12
5 GUTZEIT Jade (RSA, KTM) 30:21:32
6 SEYDOUX Lionel (CH, KTM) 33:21:58
7 FORSTER Gerhard (GER,BMW) 35:47:18
8 CURTIS Darryl (RSA, KTM) 40:06:41
9 GYENES Emanuel (ROM, KTM) 42:10:59
10 BRANDAUER Erich (Husaberg) 42:36:54

Chris Birch now has his eyes set on the 2010 ISDE in Mexico Noemeber 1st – 6th and then onto defending his Roof of Africa crown November 25th – 27th.

And if you’re wondering about national news coverage, both One News and TV3 News will be covering Birch’s latest victory from 6pm tonight – do not miss it!


For now check out this cool video from Off-Road Day 4 and One News’ midday national news update (Coverage from Red Bull Romaniacs starts in chapter 2)

Video Recap Off-Road Day 4



One News Midday Update

http://tvnz.co.nz/one-news/midday-update-video-1031716

Photos Courtesy of Red Bull Photofiles

RED BULL ROMANIACS 2010 DAY 3 + VIDEO

An early start amidst fog and rain the weather conditions were looking very omniscient of Off-Road Day 1 two days ago. Thankfully the weather was starting to clear and with sun blazing through the clouds around mid morning the drama began to unfold.

With most competitors successfully reaching the days only service point just before midday they all learn that the infamously hard and heavy ‘no-help-zone’ labelled the “Long Walk” had been scratched from the days racing because of the mornings atrocious conditions. Once Andreas Lettenbichler had come and gone from Service Point it wasn’t for another 15mins that Chris Birch, Jade Gutzeit and Joakim Lunggren made it to Service Point. Lunggren was the only competitor out of the top contention to not leave Service Point suffering from a violent stomach bug and subsequently made the decision to withdraw from the days racing.


Having pushed hard for 10km out of Service Point Birch encountered some serious engine electrical problems and was left hanging like a fly in the Carpathian Mountains. Armed with his mobile phone, mandatory for racing competitors, he calmly called up service (only as Birch could in a situation like that) and instructed them to load up Darryl Curtis with much needed parts.


Curtis shot off in search of Birch but it took several back tracks and agonizing minutes to locate Birch to off-load the goods. Knowing full well Lettenbichler was flying up ahead and Birch’s 50min lead buffer was fast diminishing, Birch worked quickly to get his KTM300EXC up and running armed with little more than a few spanners and screwdrivers. Over an hour and half later Andreas Lettenbichler and Bolton miraculously turn up back at Service Point after spending over an hour looking for the next check point. Bolton also had some front brake problems.


Hard charging Brit Graham Jarvis, after yesterdays shocking engine problems, was making up excellent time on the front runners until he too got caught out by the tricky to navigate check point after the Service Point and subsequently also surprised the Lettenbichler and Bolton when he fronted up to Service Point as they were leaving.


A touch on 2.30pm and Lettenbichler crosses the finish for Off-Road Day 3. Bolton trundles in a mere 4sec behind Lettenbichler, with a much destroyed looking South African Gutzeit finishing shortly after Bolton. However, it was Jarvis on top punching his Sherco home first, 25mins ahead of the competition.
At roughly 2.53pm Birch crosses the finish line. As Birch rolls under the Red Bull finishing platform he is quoted as saying “Man, I have nearly changed every part of my bike today! I have been riding for KTM for 6 years now, and I NEVER EVER had one single problem with electrics!”

Birch is estimated to have lost 27mins of his lead to Lettenbichler in the overall standings, which reduces Birch’s buffer as he heads into Off-Road Day 4 by under 30mins.

After having ridden for nearly 10 hours through the Carpathian wilderness, Darryl Curtis arrives at the finish line at 4:08pm. "I slipped sideways from the track and buried myself in a deep and really steep ditch. It took me nearly 25mins and all my energy to get myself back on track, only to discover that there were some more cruelties waiting for me."

Disturbingly late in the afternoon at 4pm only 55 riders have reached the finish and it is noted that heavy rain has set in making it increasingly harder for the remaining competitors still stuck out in the wilderness to make it the final kilometres home. Around 4.30pm only 8 riders from the Pro-Class have made it to the finish line they are Jarvis, Lettenbichler, Bolton, Gutzeit, Birch, Forster, Van Niekerk and Darryl Curtis.

Off-Road Day 4, the final day of the Red Bull Romaniacs 2010 is set to get underway around 3pm out time this afternoon. Birch has a rough 30min lead in the overall standings but there are some notoriously hard sections still left to come. Lets keep our fingers crossed that Birch can stay upright and claim the Red Bull Romaniacs crown!

Check out this cool video from Off-Road Day 3



Images courtesy of Red Bull Romaniacs

RED BULL ROMANIACS 2010 DAY 2 + VIDEO

The weather certainly cleared up for Off-Road Day 2 of the 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs but that didn’t mean the course was any less challenging.


After leaving Sibiu in 2nd place early this morning on Romanian time, KTM Factory Red Bull Rider Chris Birch seems to have possibly encountered some problems out in the Carpathian Mountains as he looks to have slipped back into fourth overall.


After a crash fest filled Off-Road Day 1, battered and bruised factory BMW rider Andreas Lettenbichler has relished in the ‘easier’ conditions finishing Off-Road Day 2 in the early afternoon some 35mins ahead of 2nd place rider Swedish Joakim Ljunggren and taking the overall win for the day. Barely two minutes later South African KTM rider Jade Gutzeit comes in 3rd whilst Kiwi hero Birch holds 4th position, both a staggering 50 minutes behind Lettenbichler.


Graham Jarvis’ Sherco doesn’t seem to be holding up against the harsh Romanian conditions with yet another mechanical set-back, this time a failing fuel pump, causing him to lose precious time against the leaders. Jarvis was the first to start Off-Road Day 2 but now it is unknown where the British Enduro star stands.

It must also be mentioned that most of the Pro class riders have serious time penalties against their names due to the extremely technical nature of yesterdays racing and toerrential weather playing havoc with race lines forcing many to take a completely different route to have any chance of making it through some of the challenge sections. It remains a total lottery to who is actually leading the standings for the 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs overall title.

With two more days of intense Off-Road racing ahead of them in the intensely challenging Carpathian Mountains the 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs is far from over! Check out this cool video recap from Off-Road Day 1.



Images courtesy of Red Bull Romaniacs 2010

EDIT: Taddy Blazusiack is out of the 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs! After injuring his shoulder during the prologue, Taddy unfortunately clipped another tree during Off-Road Day 1 of racing and can no longer compete.

RED BULL ROMANIACS 2010 + VIDEO

The infamously difficult Red Bull Romaniacs 2010 is underway and New Zealand's Red Bull KTM rider Chris Birch is standing atop the unofficial leader board.

Winning the Red Bull Romaniacs Prologue by a country mile and taking pole position for the start of Day 2, the first day in the Carpathian Mountains, Birch simply outclassed international riders like Taddy Blazusiak (KTM), Graham Jarvis (Sherco) and Andreas Lettenbichler (BMW).

Taking clues from the Red Bull Romaniacs website, it seems that after and early lead in the morning, Chris Birch was passed around lunch time by Graham Jarvis. Jarvis' Sherco then suffered an electrical problem during lunch which allowed Birch an opportunity to claim back the lead. Birch's lead was short lived however when Jarvis passed Birch back during a tricky uphill section.

With Birch winning Prologue racing, it seems Jarvis may be in the lead after the first day in the mountains having finished 40 minutess ahead of Birch at the end of Off-Road Day 1. It is not known at this time how Lettenbichler and Blazusiak have finished Off-Road Day 1 in the Carpathian Mountains. There is a rumour that Blazusiak injured his troublesome shoulder during the Prologue and was unsure whether it would hold up for him to continue racing.



Off-Road Day 2 starts in Sibiu just before 7am, around 3pm our time. To follow the riders via live tracking during racing navigate to RedBullRomaniacs and follow the links found on the homepage.

GO HARD CHRIS BIRCH!

USE YOUR HEAD WITH YAMAHA AT FIELDAYS

A good head is vital to your business. But heads are easily injured and tricky to fix. That’s why every Yamaha Utility ATV sold at Mystery Creek Fieldays June 16 to19 - from the mighty Grizzly 4x4 and Rhino 700s, through to the YFM350 - will come with a free helmet.

Designed to be as easy to use as possible – they’re more like hard-hats than traditional bike helmets – they’ve been developed by ACC, the agriculture industry and standards NZ to reduce injury, and keep you at work. For 35 farmers come off their quad bikes every day, one in 20 is hurt badly enough to take time off work, and eight per cent suffer head injuries. The good news is that many of those injuries would be prevented if the 80 per cent of farmers who currently don’t wear helmets used their heads, and wore one. After all, if that helmet protects you from harm you can stay on the job, and earning.


It’s a no brainer really, says Yamaha NZ’s Peter Payne. “We’d like to see farmers view helmets just like any other personal protective equipment. You can minimize needless injury to yourself or your employees by wearing one,” he says. ACC and the Motor Industry Association are supporting the helmet campaign at Fieldays, which they hope will reduce the injury stats next year. Meanwhile Payne’s promised another reason to buy. “The last year has been tough on farmers – and on dealers. So we’re looking at giving both a boost by combining our ‘Trade in your ex’ promotion with a 5.99% YMF retail finance deal to anyone buying at Fieldays.”

Forget trading in your wife or that ageing cattle dog, “But bring in your quad, Ag or Rhino, buy on YMF finance and you’ll pay nothing for 12 months – with just two payments over 24 months at 5.99%** until July 25,” Payne says. “Don’t want to trade? The 5.99% rate is good for any finance sale made at the Yamaha Fieldays site.” “And if you’re buying a Utility ATV or AG100/200, Yamaha will throw in one of its water blasters* to seal the deal.”


You can tell he’s a marketer. But Payne wants to keep his customers safe, and coming back.
“The main thing is our buyers take their helmet home and use it,” he says. “We want to see them working smart, wearing that helmet, and coming back safe and sound next year.”


*while stocks last
** Conditions apply to approved purchasers)

HONDA RACING – WEC ROUND 4 POLAND PREVIEW

First of two back-to-back Eastern European GPs next for Honda- HM-Zanardo Team
Three weeks after their excellent and close fought victory at the Grand Prix of Italy, the Honda- HM-Zanardo Team have travelled east across Europe and to the city of Kwidzyn for the fourth round of eight in the FIM Enduro World Championship.
The Grand Prix of Poland will involve loose, loamy and sandy terrain and will provide a slightly different test for E2 riders Mika Ahola and Oscar Balletti on Honda CRF450R machinery.

Following his impressive win in Lovere, 35 year old Finn Ahola moved to the top of the E2 standings in what is becoming an intense and extremely tight title dispute with fellow former champion Ivan Cervantes. Ahola spent the weekend after success in Italy taking more spoils, this time in Arsie for the third round of the Italian Championship, which he also now controls. “I came to Arsiè to win and I have reached my objective,” he said at the time. “Now I’m the leader of the classification but we have to focus on next two GP of the World Championship: the GP of Poland and the GP of Slovakia.”

Kwidzyn – that first hosted a Grand Prix in 2008 - will begin with the routine Extreme test on Friday afternoon; an enduro-trial hybrid spectacle more for cameras and public consumption than for the satisfaction or challenge of the riders. The two day event will then involve 4 laps of the 55km course.

Ahola has kept busy since Arsie. His entertaining and enlightening internet blog reveals that he took part in a rally car face-off with another Enduro legend Juha Salminen and has been preparing for the conditions he is likely to find in northern Poland where he was surprisingly usurped in two occasions by Cervantes when both were competing in E1 in 2008.

“The next Enduro GP will be in Poland where the soil is sandy so I was training on couple of very bumpy tracks,” the three times world champion (all with Honda) writes. “Riding on the sand is something I don't usually practice because I've had enough of it in Finland back in the day... I actually scored my first ever podium in an Enduro GP back in 1994 in Finland and the race was sandy. Ivan Cervantes on the other hand is also very fast on the sand and he has similar training tracks at home like I have in Finland so I am looking forward to a tough race in Poland!”

Balletti, who was also successful in Arsie in the E1 category with the Honda CRF250R, will climb back on the 450 for the Grand Prix and will be hoping to rise from his 8th place in the standings with only 5 points separating him from climbing two more positions. Fabio Mossini will not be competing in the E1 class due to his back injury.

The team will remain in Eastern Europe during the week for the Grand Prix of Slovakia and round five on 19-20 June.

YAMAHA ATV POWER ASSISTED STEERING

Power to the People

Piloting Working ATVs over NZ’s rugged terrain can be hard work – which is why power assisted steering is so useful, says Yamaha NZ’s Peter Payne.

“Whether you use your ATV all day for work or the occasional leisure activity, riding it shouldn’t become a wrestling match. Not only is accurate steering vital to safety – easy manoeuvring keeps you fresh to concentrate on everything else you’re doing.”

Yamaha was the first to introduce power steering technology, completely new to ATVs when it arrived on the Yamaha Grizzly YFM700FAP back in 2006. It works by using sensors to calculate speed; the ECU then calculates how much assistance is needed and activates the Electric Power Steer pump if required. That effectively adds a bit of elbow grease, with more assistance at slow speeds than high. It’s especially useful over rocky terrain, or when encountering an unexpected bump – such as rocks hidden in grass or underwater – which could throw you off line, and into trouble.


Utility farm ATVs can be heavy, especially with the attachments and extras that are sometimes fitted. That first power-steer Grizzly fielded a mighty 686cc four stroke motor and tipped the scales at 276kg – more with fuel, oil and rider aboard. But that heft was offset by the ease which it’s controlled thanks to power steer.

The first ATVs to get power steer assistance were Yamaha’s biggest, in four-wheel-drive Ultramatic form. But the tech proved so popular it’s now available on a wider range of Yamaha ATVs, including the YFM550FAP Grizzly, and the just revealed 2011 model YFM450FAP. Other brands have also followed Yamaha’s power steer lead, and it’s easy to see why. “Today’s farms are often run by mum and dad family teams, and not everyone using the equipment is built like Jonah Lomu,” Payne says.

“Statistics show that lighter riders are more at risk, as they have to work harder to control these heavy machines, and get into trouble more easily over the hilly terrain so typical of New Zealand farms and trails.”

“Power steer assistance means even a smaller rider can easily control the ATV, dramatically improving safety during the ride, and reducing concentration-draining fatigue throughout the day,” he says.

ENDS

For more information, refer to www.yamaha-motor.co.nz

Yamaha ATV facts
- Yamaha introduced its first ATV in 1979, with the debut of the YT125 Tri-Moto
- Yamaha introduced the first shaft drive and first electric start ATV in 1983, with the YTM225DX Tri-Moto
- Yamaha introduced the first twin-cylinder ATV in 1987, the four-wheel-drive Banshee 350 sportsmodel. It won the Baja 1000 on its first outing.
- Yamaha introduced the first ATV with a cargo bed in 1989.
- Yamaha introduces “Ultramatic” with Hi Lo ratio and full engine breaking on the 600 Grizzly in 1998, based on the drive system used successfully in Yamaha snow mobiles and Golf Cars
- Yamaha introduces selectable 2wd 4wd Hi Lo ratio with “Ultramatic” on the 400 Kodiak in 1999
- Yamaha introduces the first ATV with power steering in 2006, the Grizzly 700.

HONDA PRO RACING - MX1

Honda Racing MX1 Race Summary – St Jean d’Angely, France

Following heavy overnight thunderstorms the MX1 riders woke up to a track that had changed drastically from the day before. However, the rain had stopped and it wasn’t long before it began to dry out, although by the time it did the ruts had become deep, adding further technicality to the hillside track. The cloudy conditions were a big change from the blazing hot sunshine and 30 degree temperatures of Saturday and it seemed that riders welcomed the cooler operating conditions.


Davide Guarneri had qualified best of the Honda riders, lining up in an impressive 5th spot. His LS Honda team-mate Tanel Leok finished 11th in the qualifying heat and was hoping for a better start on race day. Both CAS Honda riders, Gareth Swanepoel and Evgeny Bobryshev, had also qualified outside the top 10 and had the same ambition. Unfortunately Honda Racing MX Martin were left spectating, as MX1 rider Jimmy Albertson did not travel to France due to an injury sustained at his home GP in Glen Helen, USA just a week before.

In the first moto, Antonio Cairoli grabbed the holeshot on his KTM and began to move away from the field. Guarneri slipped his Honda CRF450R into second and began pursuit. Leok had got the good start he was hoping for and moved into the leading pack in a strong 5th spot.

CAS Honda riders Gareth Swanepoel and Evgeny Bobryshev had gated well and in the early stages and all 4 Honda’s were running in the top ten. At half-distance Guarneri and Leok had settled into 5th and 6th place respectively and were sticking in consistently close lap times as they battled between themselves. Suzuki man Steve Ramon and Cairoli were battling for the lead, swapping places in a fascinating dice.
As the sun began to break through, Leok turned the heat up on his Italian team mate before a small mistake put pay to his challenge. He eventually had to settle for 6th place, just one spot behind his team mate Guarneri in 5th. CAS riders Evgeny Bobryshev and Gareth Swanepoel had both failed to make in-roads into the top 10 and finished in 11th and 13th respectively. The race was won by Cairoli with Ramon keeping him honest all the way to the line.


In the 2nd moto, Guarneri got the holeshot and moved away from the field in the early parts of lap one. Yamaha’s David Philippaerts soon began to apply the pressure as the riders got into their stride. A scruffy second lap saw the Italian drop to 3rd behind Philippaerts and Suzuki’s Clement Desalle. Both CAS riders had poor starts and were running outside the top 10 as the race developed. At half distance, Bobryshev was forced to retire when a wire broke off the ignition coil, a rare and unfortunate event that left the Russian stranded at the bottom of one of the steep climbs.

Towards the later part of the race Guarneri was involved in a fearsome tussle with Ken de Dycker, at one point putting a fantastic overtake on him while in mid air, but his challenge faded and he was forced to settle for 8th, one place ahead of his team mate Leok. The remaining CAS Honda rider, Gareth Swanepoel, also suffered technical difficulties and came over the line in 13th place.

The result saw 3 Honda riders in the overall top 10 classification and a best result of the season for Guarneri in 6th overall. The Italian is certainly starting to come good and looks like mounting further challenges to the podium throughout the second half of the season.

Davide Guarneri, LS Motors Honda
In the end not bad, I took more points today then at any time in the rest of the season but I am not happy about the second moto as I made many mistakes and chose the wrong lines in the early part of the race and did not find my rhythm. The first moto went well but it is not really my favourite kind of track. I prefer it when it is not so rutted. I do not have the agility because of my size, I work better when it is slippery. I am happy but I want more.

Tanel Leok, LS Motors Honda
It was ok but can be better. I was hampered by illness as I have tonsillitis and I began to get quite tired towards the end of the second moto. My starts were good. I like the track, it is my kind of track, quite physical and demanding. It was just a shame that I was not on top form.

Evegeny Bobryshev, CAS Honda
It wasn’t so good. I had a big crash on Saturday. I had good speed but made a mistake and I went down. Sunday there was a lot of rain and the first race was difficult, lots of ruts and slippy ruts that made it hard going. I was stiff on the bike and not relaxed and therefore did not have good speed. In the second race I was much better. I started to find good lines and was much faster. The bike had a problem when a stone took out the cables and the bike just stopped. It wasn’t such a good day but I am hoping to find more luck next time out.

Roger Harvey, Honda Off-road Manager
It’s been a hard track, very difficult conditions. Leok and Guarneri were riding excellently but could have probably gone better in the second moto. Guarneri is struggling a little bit with fitness but you can see the confidence growing and his smooth style is a pleasure to watch. Leok did well to battle against illness all weekend and I am sure he will be back stronger in Germany. The CAS guys had an unfortunate weekend with technical difficulties and Bobryshev has hit a bit of a difficult patch with crashes which is expected in his first season in MX1. The Martin boys were sad not be involved in MX1 but we just have to wait until Jimmy comes back which should be next time out in Teutschental.

MEDIA RELEASE - 2011 KAWASAKI KX250F EFI

Imminent media release from Kawasaki

With the popularity of electronic fuel injection paving a new direction in Motocross performance, Kawasaki has taken its incredibly sound KX250F package of 2010 and gone one better. Introducing the all-new 2011 Kawasaki KX250F with EFi.
Overview

There are nearly 30 upgrades to the 2011 Kawasaki KX250F, reflecting the rigor of testing and development happening at Kawasaki. Engineers started with what’s arguably the gold standard in 250-class racing – the 2010 KX250F – winner of the 2010 AMA East and West Supercross Lites titles.

Loads of engine modifications have made the latest KX an absolute corner-to-corner screamer. Refinements to the 249cc single include higher compression, a modified top on the exclusive Bridged-Box Bottom piston, higher valve lift, longer spark plug design, and a new coil that offers a hotter and longer-lasting spark. And, the addition of Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) produces stunning – and more useable – power. The system automatically adjusts to suit track and climate conditions, even when the going gets rough.


An optional ECU Setting Tool allows racers to select from several different ECU data maps or fine tune a custom map. The tool can also record up to six hours of data, including engine rpm, degree of throttle opening, coolant and air temperatures, ignition timing, fuel adjustments, gear position and system voltage.


Headlining the chassis changes on the KX250F is Kawasaki’s new Separate Function Fork. Instead of a conventional fork design, the SFF separates spring and damping duties (one in each leg) for improved performance, less friction, lower weight and easier adjustability. The right leg has the spring, with a larger main spring/rod assembly than traditional forks; the left leg handles damping, with rebound and compression damping adjustable on the fork tube.


As for ergonomics, the KX250F’s bodywork offers riders a slim interface and a natural positioning that make going fast a simple affair. The upgraded seat provides excellent seated grip and rider mobility, and features firm urethane foam to hold its shape longer.


Features
+ New Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system allows consistent fuel delivery, quick starts and easy adjustability; prevents engine hesitation after landing from jumps
+ Optional ECU Setting Tool allows custom tuning and data logging
+ New Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) divides spring and damping functions – springing in the right leg and damping in left provide less friction, better performance and easier adjustability
+ Revised suspension settings front and rear aimed at race-experienced riders
+ Increased engine performance via higher compression and exhaust/intake changes
+ Super-hard titanium nitride coating on the outside of the inner fork tubes reduces stiction and improves suspension action, while also helping to prevent scratches and tube damage
+ High-performance piston featuring bridged-box-bottom design
+ Engine tuned to achieve the widest possible torque band, maximizing traction through more of the rev range
+ Stainless steel exhaust features longer header section and larger-volume muffler, quieting emissions to 94 dB

STOLEN BIKES

Stolen last night 1st June, from Phil's Motorcycles Matamata:

New 2010 YZ250FZ

Frame Number: JYA3G33CAA004017

Fitted for display with a Two Brothers accessory Exhaust system

New 2010 YZ450FSEZ

Frame Number: JYACJ15CXAA000906

White special edition

If you know of any information and you can assist with this please contact Phil Martin at Phil's Motorcycles Matamata on 07 8887604

Yamaha New Zealand and Phil's Motorcycles would greatly appreciate any information available.

TOWNLEY NOTCHES SECOND HONDA CRF450R VICTORY IN TWO MEETINGS

A hot, breezy, fast and intense Grand Prix of USA at the challenging Glen Helen circuit in eastern California was the scene of the sixth round of fifteen in the 2010 FIM World Championship. Former MX2 world champ, current AMA title contender and GP wild-card, Ben Townley, expertly guided his CRF 450R across the finish line in first position for the second meeting in succession.

The Troy Lee Designs Lucas Oil Honda man claimed victory in the second moto at the first USGP since 1999 and first since 1992 at Glen Helen on Memorial Day weekend and in front of 16,000 spectators who braved unrelenting sunshine and temperatures in the low ‘30s.


The New Zealander – returning from several seasons plagued with injury – was in fine form as he escaped to victory in the second moto. Unfortunately he was left to curse his retirement in the first moto – as a consequence of bike damage sustained in a tussle with Mike Alessi while pushing for second spot – which ultimately put him out of the hunt for the overall win. Townley had to settle for 8th spot overall and question what could have been had he not suffered cruel luck first time out. The impressive Italian Antonio Cairoli took the overall win on his factory KTM 350 EX-F but can perhaps count himself lucky that Townley dropped out of the first moto, and out of contention for the overall win.
LS Motors Honda David Guarneri was also in good form and had a productive meeting. The Italian scored two top ten finishes for 7th overall and can take encouragement from his showing, particularly in the second moto where his pace – for virtually the entire 35 minute and 2 lap race – was on a par with the fight for 3rd spot just ahead of him on the track.


Ben Townley, Troy Lee Designs Lucas Oils Honda:
“It was awesome and a great feeling to win. It doesn’t matter what race it was but to beat the best people in the world – whether in America or Europe – is the goal I was aiming for. I am not anywhere near how could I can be and when that point arrives then it will be pretty cool. I felt like I had some of the old magic back a little bit after the qualification race yesterday and it come together today. Following Mike and Tony was not hard for me, so speed-wise I don’t have a problem.


Davide Guarneri, LS Motors Honda:
“It was a good GP. I have had some problems in the past with the really hot weather but today was not bad, I lost two positions on the last lap because I was completely finished. In the second moto I was keeping pace with Alessi and Cairoli; I did not start that strongly but was building my speed.”

Roger Harvey, Off-road Manager, Honda Motor Europe:
“It was great to see Ben Townley running at the speed we know he and the bike are capable of and it shows the good work the guys are doing in the US to have him competitive in the AMA one weekend and then winning here and beating the best in the world the next.”

Source: HondProRacing

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

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

COPPINS VS THE RUMOURS

It was as early as the Lommel round of the Motocross MX1 World Championship back in August that the then rumors started flying through the pits about Josh Coppins future as a professional racer.

At first their were signs JC could well be on his way home down-under to compete in the New Zealand and Australian race seasons. Then the media went nuts over a possible sighting of JC arriving at a private Aprilia test track fully clothed in MX gear, jumping into a van then back out onto the track for a few laps, before hoping straight back into the same car he turned up in still in his MX gear and leaving. One final rumor clouded JC returning back to his old Honda stomping ground riding for CAS Honda in 2010 - with CAS Honda still looking to fill one position on the team, it could well be a possibility.

At this stage in his career he will no doubt be looking for the best contract that will benefit the Josh Coppin's brand. We have all heard how tight the economy is over in Europe and America, let alone in the South Pacific, which has left many international riders pondering 'do I take a pay cut or do I stand by my laurels and demand what possibly the industry seems incapable of producing at this point in time'.

Josh Coppins is pondering no more. His future in the world of professional Motocross for 2010 is cemented. Look out for Josh Coppins all-revealing column in the November issue of Kiwi Rider due in your letterbox on the 15th of October!