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 AMA Pro Racing Preview: New Jersey - Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:20:00 +0000 With just two events left in the AMA Pro Racing series, Superbike rider Josh Hayes is doing everything he can to hold onto his slim 11 point lead ahead of Tommy Hayden. Hayden and Hayes have been going win for win lately, as both have been riding at the top of their games. The battle for the title will likely be decided in the final race, unless someone cracks under the pressure in New Jersey.
Hayes will be confident going into this weekend's race. He won both races in New Jersey last year, beating out 7 time AMA Superbike Champion Mat Mladin in race one, and Hayden in race two. But don't expect either rider to dwell on the past. There is a lot riding on this weekend's race in New Jersey, and both riders will do all they can do gain the advantage for the final round of the AMA Superbike.
The battle for third place is also a highly contested match. Jake Zemke and Ben Bostrom are separated by just 12 points. Zemke has the lead going into New Jersey, but Zemke hasn't had the best luck as of late. He's missed the top five in the past three races, unlike Bostrom who has been consistently on the podium recently.
In the Daytona Sportbike division, the battle for the championship is a tight three way battle between season leader and reigning champion, Danny Eslick, Josh Herrin, and Martin Cardenas. Eslick holds a 12 point advantage over Herrin, and 14 points over Cardenas going into this weekend's round.
Eslick has the least amount of wins this season out of the top three, but he has consistently placed on the podium, and only once finished below the top five.
J.D. Beach has been hot in the Supersport division. Beach has won 7 of the last 8 races, and the race he didn't win he came in second. Beach currently has a 67 point lead over Huntley Nash, and it doesn't look like anything is going to slow him down.
- 2011 HJC Helmets are here! - Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:00:00 +0000
2011 HJC Helmets are here..most are ready to ship now. Call or Go Online for Pricing.
Hurry, there is a Limited supply during this early release!
We have been Selling Direct for Over 50 Years! Please Call or Go online and let our experience, low prices and customer service speak for itself. Sorry, but these prices apply to new orders only. No price adjustments on orders already placed. Some items including Tires and Closeouts are not eligible for additional discounts.
( M-Th 9-9, Fri 9-8, Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 eastern )
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- 2010 World Superbike Preview: Nurburgring - Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:31:00 +0000
 The World Superbike finally returns after a long Summer break, and Leon Haslam and Max Biaggi will continue their fight for the World Superbike title at Nurburgring.
Nurburgring will be the 11th round of the World Superbike series, which doesn't give Haslam much time to catch up. Haslam is currently 60 points behind Biaggi, and with only 6 races left, Haslam will have to on the top of his game to put on the pressure on Biaggi.
Of course, Biaggi could mathematically clinch the title at this weekend's race. But it would take two first place finishes for Biaggi, and two DNF's for Haslam, which isn't likely to happen. Haslam is determined to keep the pressure on Biaggi, and promises to give him something to think about during the final rounds.
“I’ve managed 11 podiums this year, had just the one non finish, in America, and only really had the one bad round at Brno but it was a good round for Biaggi so it highlighted my problems even though I got two top ten finishes that day,” Haslam said. “I’m ready to get down to business now and I’d certainly like to add to my race wins in 2010 when we get to Germany and maybe give Max something to think about for the last couple of rounds.”
Neither Haslam or Biaggi finished on the podium last year, but Jonathan Rea, Carlos Checa, and Noriyuki Haga, did.
Rea won race two at Germany last year, and will be looking to do the same this time around. Rea currently sits comfortably in third place, 70 points behind Haslam, and 39 points ahead of Checa. Rea is tied with Haslam for race wins this year with 3, but will need a few more if he wants to move up in the standings.
Cal Crutchlow's phenomonal performance in Great Brittain moved him into 5th in the World Superbike championship, but the momentum from that race weakend over the summer break.
"Silverstone was an incredible experience for me," said Crutchlow. “I believe we can go on and repeat the success at the following three rounds."
Haga and Toeseland should also be contenders for the top spots in Germany. Both riders have had a rough season so far, but there is no denying that they are both capable of taking home a race win.
Nurburgring will begin the final stretch of the World Superbike season, but with 150 points still up for grabs, the race is far from over.
- 2010 MotoGP Race Preview: Misano GP - Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:01:00 +0000
 Before the MotoGP riders can even catch their breath from the action packed round at Indianapolis, they will be shipping out for this weekend's Misano Grand Prix at San Marino. Jorge Lorenzo may have seen his worst finish of the season at Indy (it was a third place finish) but he is still the rider to beat at Misano.
Dani Pedrosa got a big boost of confidence last weekend as he took home his third win of the year, and cut down Lorenzo's lead to 68 points. The win also puts Pedrosa back in front of Lorenzo in terms of career wins. Pedrosa leads 34-33 in wins across all disciplines, and leads 12-11 in premier class wins.
Pedrosa managed a third place finish last year, while Lorenzo took second for the second year in a row at Misano. Both riders will be looking for a race win, although the pressure is firmly on Pedrosa's shoulders if he wants to compete for the MotoGP championship.
Pedrosa and Lorenzo might be vying for the top spot in the championship, but you can expect Valentino Rossi to steal the show in Misano. Rossi grew up, and still lives, in Tavullia, which is just 13 km away from the Italian's home track. Rossi fans are sure to show up in the thousands this weekend to see if the legend can reclaim the top spot on the podium. Rossi has won at Misano the past two years, and if he is going to return to glory, it will likely happen this weekend.
“Of course it's my home race and it's near my house so it's always very special to race there, in front of all of my fans," Rossi said. "I have won there the last two years but this year we come in slightly different circumstances. Still, we will be trying our hardest and I really hope I can give the fans a good show!"
Casey Stoner and Andrea Dovizioso are currently battling for the third place spot in the MotoGP championship standings. Dovizioso leads by just 7 points, but only has a best finish of fourth at Misano. Stoner won the Misano race in 2007, but due to injury and illness, he hasn't raced at the Italian track for the past two years. Stoner had a disappointing weekend at Indy, and will be looking to Misano to make up for some valuable lost points.
The American rookie Ben Spies had his best showing of the year last weekend, capturing his first ever second place finish. The home crowd must have given Spies a little extra push, but he has clearly shown that he is a podium contender every time he is on the track. Spies is just 4 points out of 5th place, but he'll have to beat Rossi this weekend if he wants to move up on the leader board.
One point behind Spies, comes fellow American, Nicky Hayden. Hayden has yet to be on the podium this year, but he has had enough top 5 finishes to keep him toward the top of the leader board.
The Misano track is similar to the Indy track, in terms of flatness. But the Italian track has its 16 turns packed into just 2.6 miles. The biggest straightaway on the track is just .37 miles long, making the Misano track as tight and twisty as they come.
- New Landspeed Record, Great Roads Series Continues in New Mexico, MotoGP Indy, and More! - Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:25:00 +0000
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- MotoGP Indy Recap – Quotes From the Podium - Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:48:00 +0000
 For the first time in his MotoGP career, Dani Pedrosa has won three races in a season. Pedrosa was able to beat out a high-flying Ben Spies for the race win at Indy, and cut down Jorge Lorenzo's lead in the series to 66 points. Pedrosa still has a long way to go if he wants to catch up to the season leader, but with 7 races left to go in the MotoGP season, Pedrosa isn't giving up on his title hopes just yet.
Pedrosa: “I’m really happy with this win and it was an especially tough one because of the heat today.... My rhythm was good today and even though Spies was strong in front I was able to close him down and make the pass. I’m really pleased with the performance of my bike because it was fast on the straights and also was working well in the corners.... I’m very happy because last year I crashed when I could have won and now I have made up for it... We are doing a good job and I hope we can maintain this momentum next weekend at Misano.”
Rookie Ben Spies had a fantastic weekend in front of the American crowd. Spies started from the pole position, and claimed his best result yet in his fledgling MotoGP career, with a second place finish at Indy.
Spies: “I'm really happy to have got my best result in MotoGP in front of the American crowd and at a track as famous as Indianapolis. I always said I wanted my best result in my home race, so it's mission accomplished. After the pole position I got a great start and it felt good to be out front for the first time in MotoGP. But I didn't have the pace for Dani today and he rode a great race... When Dani passed me I knew I couldn't follow him, so I let him go and concentrated on keeping a gap to Jorge in third and that's what I achieved. I can't complain because it was a great weekend and to be top Yamaha rider when you look at who else is on that bike is pretty satisfying. It hasn't sunk in yet that I've finished second in my home race. But I'll enjoy it before I hop on a plane and try and do it again in Misano next weekend.”
 Jorge Lorenzo had his worst finish of the MotoGP season, which is amazing since it was a third place finish. Lorenzo's streak of 1-2 finishes ended last weekend at Indy, but he has still finished on the podium at every race this year. Lorenzo has a 66 point lead ahead of Pedrosa, and if he can manage to stay on the track for the remaining 7 races, he should be able to hoist the MotoGP championship trophy at the end of the year.
Lorenzo: "Of course I shouldn't be disappointed with third place but at the same time I'm not happy with my race today, I didn't ride as well as I could have and I didn't get a good start. The conditions were incredibly hard and I simply didn't have the physical strength to push as hard or do the same times I did in practice; it was like a race in Malaysia! The track was so slippery and it was very difficult to use the tires as you wanted to, I think honestly I'm quite lucky to have finished third today. The good thing is we took some points and now I have to concentrate on recovering before Misano because we don't have much time."
Valentino Rossi continues to improve, but still isn't in the condition he was before his accident. The reigning champion took fourth place at Indy, and now sits in fifth place in the overall standings. Rossi is just 5 points behind Casey Stoner, but he'll have to watch out for Ben Spies and Nicky Hayden, who are both nipping at his wheels.
If Rossi is going to find his way back to the top of the podium this season, he'll be likely to do it next weekend at Misano, where he will race in front of his home crowd.
Rossi: "This was a good race for us after the weekend. Fourth is quite good in the circumstances but the important thing is that my rhythm in the race was strong and I felt much happier on the bike. I did some good laps and I wasn't too far from the other Yamahas, but unfortunately I paid a lot for my lack of fitness in this heat and in the end I had to stop pushing because I didn't have any strength left in my body. I'm happy though because we came back to a good setting and with me riding well, and if you consider I had three small crashes in the weekend, fourth isn't so bad. Now we will look forward to Misano, my home race!"
- AMA Racing: Land Speed Records Expected to be Set Today at Bonneville - Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:22:00 +0000
 This weekend the motorcycle racing world saw spectacular performances by Ryan Dungey in the motocross series, Dani Pedrosa in MotoGP, and Tommy Hill in the British Superbike, but none of that will even come close to the speeds that will be achieved at the Bonneville Salt Flats today.
The 2010 AMA Racing Land Speed Grand Championships kick into high gear today, and the American Motorcycle Association expects to certify a few new land speed records.
"From the venue to the machinery, land-speed racing is one of the more unique types of motorcycle competition, and the AMA Racing Land Speed Grand Championships, promoted by BUB, is the sport's premier event," said AMA Director of Racing Joe Bromley. "There is a lot of thrilling action on the salt this week on many different levels. No question about it, land-speed racing is so engaging because each class has its own competitive landscape, with different personalities vying for the top of the box."
The AMA land Speed Grand Championships feature all types of bike. From 50cc minis, to 2000cc, "Bonneville Salt Flats only" motorcycles. There are even a few alternative fuel bikes that will try their luck at Bonneville.
"Interest also is running high in our electric-powered classes," Bromley said. "Several competitors are eager to establish records with this new, non-traditional technology, and it is an area that is ripe with innovation. That isn't limited to the electric classes, though," added Bromley. "You can spend an entire day just checking out amazing technology in the pits, all designed for one purpose: to simply go as fast as possible."
Most bikes vying for speed records at Bonneville have streamlined styles that require the riders to lay inside the motorcycle. But one class this year that is gaining a lot of interest, is the competition for fastest sit-down motorcycle. These bikes resemble racing bikes more than they do rocket ships.
Every year, new land speed records are set at Bonneville. The current land-speed record for a motorcycle is held by Chris Car, who is a 7-time AMA Grand National Champion. Carr set the record last year, averaging 367.382 mph. It will be a tough speed to beat, but it will sure be fun to try.
- XDL Championship Series: Round Five Indianapolis - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:33:00 +0000
 Motorcycles rule the city of Indianapolis about this time of year. Riders flock from around the country and world to enjoy being a majority on the roads for one special weekend. Motorcyclists are in their element and enjoy streets closed down just for them, endless entertainment and plenty of bike talk. One of those closed roads featured a special event for riders a little more extreme then even two-wheeled riders: the one wheeled riders. The XDL Championship Series round five and final round gave Indy all it had on both Friday and Saturday night.
The series ended with a bang after a very exciting year including exposure at the X-Games and creation of a TV series “Inside XDL” which will be airing this fall on Versus. The Indy XDL is always exciting for the riders and fans as it takes place in the heart of the city, which makes the urban streetbike warriors who compete feel a little more at home. Fans packed the stands and barricades around the entire perimeter to be awed, shocked and sometimes a little scared as the best sportbike freestyle riders in the world competed for their places.
In this rapidly growing sport, each event features never before seen tricks and each year as the speed and danger get turned up the excitement and wrecks are inevitable. BMW rider Teach McNeil pushed the limits of his S 1000 RR during his final round and sent the beautiful machine flipping down the parking lot after a high-speed burnout. The fans and riders were happy to see him bounce up from the wreck and hear him thank his dedicated fans for their support and energy. Series Champion and Yamaha rider, Bill Dixon extended his signature, switchback wheelie scrape so far he ended up on the pavement as well. Icon rider Nick Apex pulled some wild maneuvers out of his bag, as always, impressing fans and the judges enough to land him first in the FMF Cup Individual Freestyle, with Shift rider Luke Duke close on his heels. And the crowd fell in love with the first ever lady stunters of XDL and saw Dena Sodano take home first place in the Sartso Women’s Cup.
The raw, passionate beauty of this developing motorcycle sector was thoroughly appreciated by the city of Indy and XDL was sure to personally thank them with an extensive meet and greet with the riders. Each fan enjoyed meeting the riders and checking out the amazing modified machines that allow them to do what they do. If you missed the events this year, check out “Inside XDL” on Versus this fall and learn what it takes to be a top sportbike freestyle rider.
- Indianapolis MotoGP Racers Receive Cardo - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:05:00 +0000
Indianapolis MotoGP Racers Receive Cardo
scala rider® G4™ PowerSet Motorcycle Communication Systems
PITTSBURGH, PA (August 30th, 2010) – Cardo Systems, Inc., the world’s market leader in wireless Bluetooth® communication systems for motorcycle helmets, today announced that it presented the racers competing at this past weekend’s exciting MotoGP in Indianapolis with its industry-leading scala rider G4 PowerSet motorcycle intercom communication system for bikers.
The most feature-rich communication system of its kind, Cardo Systems’ scala rider G4 PowerSet provides full duplex wireless intercom communication up to ONE mile* among two bikers, three bikers or four-way communication among two bikers and two passengers on two bikes-an industry standard.
The highly acclaimed communication system contains two factory paired scala rider G4 Bluetooth headsets for immediate motorcycle intercom use. In addition to intercom communication, each scala rider® G4 can connect with virtually any portable Bluetooth device including mobile phones, MP3 players and compatible GPS units (for in-helmet voice instructions). It can also connect with non-Bluetooth MP3 players and GPS units via its embedded jack, and the entire line of scala rider headsets. Both can transmit STEREO music from any MP3 player with A2DP capability.
Established in 1949 as a world championship by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), MotoGP is the premier motorcycle racing world championship, an 18-race series visiting 14 countries across four continents. Its participants represent the world’s most-skilled racers. Last weekend’s Indianapolis leg of this prestigious global event showcased the natural synergy between FIM and Cardo Systems, both marquee names in the motorcycle industry. Cardo Systems was happy to provide them with the industry’s pre-eminent Bluetooth® communication device in recognition of their world-class status in competing in last weekend’s Indianapolis event.
Compatible with virtually all motorcycle helmets, the scala rider G4 PowerSet is available with noise-canceling microphones for the highest communication quality. The device’s rechargeable li-polymer batteries allow for up to 10 hours of talk-time and 7-days standby time.
The scala rider G4 PowerSet is available through select distributors, retail outlets, specialty motorcycle shops and directly from the Cardo Systems web site at www.cardosystems.com with a suggested retail price of $489.95.
*results may vary according to terrain.
About Cardo Systems, Inc.
Cardo Systems, Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, has specialized in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art communication and entertainment systems for motorcycle helmets since 2003. Cardo's scala rider line of headsets, now available in over 50 countries is the world's best selling Bluetooth system for the motorcycle industry. For more information call (412) 788-4533.
- Product Review: Kryptonite R4 Retracting Combination Lock - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:03:00 +0000
There are times when you want to stop for a little lunch on a ride without carrying your jacket and helmet in the cafe' with you. It is nice to have a locking option if you don’t have hard bags on your bike. The Kryptonite R4 Retracting Combination Lock is a convenient light-weight lock for light-duty security.
It is small enough to fit beneath most any seat or in a pocket of a tank bag. The R4 has a 2.6 mm vinyl-coated retracting 3 foot steel cable. It also has a 4 digit resettable combination, and the rollers are easy to grip and turn. So you don’t lock yourself out (or in), the lock has an anti-reset button that prevents accidental resetting. A really nice feature is the removable light for locking or unlocking at night.
Would I trust my expensive leather jacket overnight in the inner city to this lock? No way. However, that is not its intended purpose. It a convenient, light-duty lock that will foil light-duty criminals. The Kryptonite R4 Retracting Combination Lock retails for $22, but Competition Accessories has it for $18 on their website.
- Brookes Beats Hill at Cadwell Park - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:54:00 +0000
 Going into this weekend's race, the British Superbike was pretty tight up at the top. Ryuichi Kiyonari led the series with 23 podium credits, followed by Tommy Hill with 20 and Josh Brookes with 19. Now, after both races at Cadwell Park have finished, the top three riders are separated by just one podium credit heading into the BSB Showdown.
Josh Brookes took the race win during the second race of the day, beating out race 1 winner Tommy Hill. Hill moves into the lead with 25 podium credits, one more than Brookes and Kiyonari, who are tied at 24.
The three top riders finished within one second of each other today at Cadwell Park, and the final three races of the BSB series are bound to be cloes ones.
Brookes took the hole shot during race two, but was passed up by Hill by the end of lap one. Brookes dropped down to third, and it wasn't until the ninth lap that he could get the better of his HM Plant Honda teammate, Kiyonari.
Brookes was able to pull another passing maneuver on the 12th lap to get around Hill, and held onto his lead until the race was red flagged with 4 laps remaining, when James Edmeades took a hard fall on the Cadwell Park track.
Michael Laverty and Michael Rutter maintained their fourth and fifth place positions from race 1, and will be joining Hill, Brookes, and Kiyonari for the final three rounds of the BSB.
Alastair Seeley was also able to secure his position in the BSB Showdown. Seeley finished ninth for the day behind Yukio Kagayama and Tommy Bridewell, but it was enough to keep him ahead of his only contender for the 6th spot, John Laverty.
British Superbike - Cadwell Park - Race 2 Results
- Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda)
- Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +0.230s
- Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +0.888s
- Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +5.071s
- Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +11.719s
- James Ellison (Swan Honda) +13.178s
- Yukio Kagayama (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +15.712s
- Tommy Bridewell (Quay Garage Honda) +21.347s
- Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +24.287s
- Gary Mason (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +27.446s
- Hill Captures Race 1 at Cadwell Park - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:27:00 +0000
 Tommy Hill gave himself three more podium credits by conquering the Cadwell Park track during the first race of the British Superbike this morning. Hill is now just one point behind Ryuichi Kiyonari, and with one race left to go, Hill could be the season leader heading into the showdown.
Hill's victory was the first at Cadwell Park for the Worx Crescent Suzuki team since 2004. Hill beat out Josh Brookes and King Kiyo for the race win.
"It is nice to be back on the top step again; it has been a long time since Thruxton but that is what we needed and three podium credits is good for me and the team," Hill said. "We regrouped this weekend and worked hard on the settings and it paid off. We have had some ups and downs but now we are back on top and we need to do the same in race two."
Behind Kiyonari came the other two riders who have already secured their spots in the top six for the British Superbike showdown. Michael Laverty crossed the line in fourth, followed by Michael Rutter.
James Ellison and Yukio Kagayama would cross the line before Alastair Seeley, who picks up enough points to keep John Laverty at a safe distance. Laverty missed out on the top ten, and will need to put in a podium finish race during race two if he wants a chance at the final showdown.
British Superbike - Cadwell Park - Race 1 Results
- Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki)
- Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) +5.116s
- Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +7.092s
- Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +12.522s
- Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +14.623s
- James Ellison (Swan Honda) +20.822s
- Yukio Kagayama (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +28.158s
- Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +28.533s
- Tommy Bridewell (Quay Garage Honda) +30.198s
- Dan Linfoot (Motorpoint Yamaha) +34.523s
- Tragedy Strikes the Indy MotoGP - Mon, 30 Aug 2010 01:23:00 +0000
As much as we all love motorcycling, it’s a dangerous activity. Even when wearing the best of protective equipment and possessing the best training like racers do, every minute riding has the potential for tragedy. This fact was painfully evident at the Indianapolis MotoGP.
Thirteen-year-old racer, Peter Lenz of Vancouver, Washington, died after being hit by another racer when he fell off his bike on a warm up lap. Lenz was an up-and-coming racer in the MD250H class, which is a series that showcases riders ages 12 – 18. Lenz, who had been racing for 6 years, had won nine regional titles and nine national championships in various race series.
The following statement was released to the press after the incident. "On behalf of the Lenz family, we would like to thank Peter's friends and supporters for all their help throughout the years. We are deeply saddened by the loss but know that Peter is racing even faster in the sky."
While some will surely question competitive motorcycle racing at such a young age, MotoGP star Ben Spies made his first start in the 125cc series at 12.
All of us at All About Bikes offer our sincere condolences to the friends and family of this young champion.
- Pedrosa Beats Spies for Indy GP Win - Sun, 29 Aug 2010 19:51:00 +0000
 Dani Pedrosa took his third win of the MotoGP season today, as he beat out Ben Spies and season leader Jorge Lorenzo for the Indy GP victory. It is the first time Pedrosa has won more than two races during a MotoGP season, but the Repsol Honda rider still sits 68 Points behind Lorenzo.
Pole sitter, and American favorite, Ben Spies, led the race until the 8th lap, where he was passed up by Pedrosa. Spies was the only rider who could keep Lorenzo in his sights, but Pedrosa slowly pulled away to a comfortable victory of more than 3 and a half seconds.
Spies may be disappointed that he missed a prime opportunity for a race win, but the rookie still collected his best finish at the MotoGP level, and his second podium of the season.
Season leader Jorge Lorenzo had his worst finish of the season at the Indy GP, which says a lot about how Lorenzo has been riding so far. Lorenzo has finished on the podium at every race so far this season, but his streak of top two finishes came to an end today at Indy. Lorenzo finished three seconds behind his 2011 Fiat Yamaha teammate, claiming the last spot on the podium, and keeping Pedrosa from cutting too deeply into his lead. Lorenzo will have a 68 point advantage going into next weekend's race in San Marino.
Valentino Rossi was able to come back from a poor qualifying to take the fourth place spot ahead of Repsol Honda rider, Andrea Dovizioso. Nicky Hayden, who started from the front row for the first time in his MotoGP career, managed a 6th place finish for the day.
Hayden's teammate Casey Stoner was not as fortunate. Stoner was among the fastest riders on the track throughout the weekend, but he'll walk away from the Indy GP with a DNF.
Spies has been the most talked about rookie this year, but Marco Simoncelli and Alvaro Bautista both had great races today at the Indy GP. Simoncelli and Bautista took 7th and 8th respectively, finishing ahead of Alex Espargaro and Hector Barbera, who rounded out the top ten.
On the overall standings, Lorenzo now has 251 points to Pedrosa's 183. The third place spot is currently held by Pedrosa's teammate, Dovizioso, but Casey Stoner is only 7 points behind. Valentino Rossi maintains his fifth place position, but Ben Spies is catching up to the veteran, and currently sits just 4 points back.
MotoGP - Indianapolis GP - Race Results
| Pos. | | | Rider | Nation | | Bike | | Time/Gap |
| 1 |
|
|
Dani PEDROSA |
SPA |
|
Honda |
|
47'31.615 |
| 2 |
|
|
Ben SPIES |
USA |
|
Yamaha |
|
+3.575 |
| 3 |
|
|
Jorge LORENZO |
SPA |
|
Yamaha |
|
+6.812 |
| 4 |
|
|
Valentino ROSSI |
ITA |
|
Yamaha |
|
+12.633 |
| 5 |
|
|
Andrea DOVIZIOSO |
ITA |
|
Honda |
|
+21.885 |
| 6 |
|
|
Nicky HAYDEN |
USA |
|
Ducati |
|
+35.138 |
| 7 |
|
|
Marco SIMONCELLI |
ITA |
|
Honda |
|
+36.740 |
| 8 |
|
|
Alvaro BAUTISTA |
SPA |
|
Suzuki |
|
+36.825 |
| 9 |
|
|
Aleix ESPARGARO |
SPA |
|
Ducati |
|
+44.905 |
| 10 |
|
|
Hector BARBERA |
SPA |
|
Ducati |
|
+51.368 |
- Elias Takes 3 in a Row at Indy GP - Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:57:00 +0000
 Going in to today's race, Toni Elias had a 55 point lead in the Moto2 Championship standings, and two consecutive race wins. Elias took his third consecutive race win today, and extended his lead to 67 points over Andrea Iannone.
It is the first time in Elias' Moto2 career that he has ever won three races in a row. The Gresini Racing rider beat out pole sitter Julian Simon and Scott Redding for the win, in a race that was restarted and shortened to 17 laps.
Two separate crashes on the opening lap caused the restart. Shoya Tomizawa and Michael Ranseder both went down at the beginning of the original race. Neither were able to get back on their bikes for the restart.
Elias started from 6th place when the race was restarted, but got the hole shot and quickly made his way up to first. Elias was overtaken by Simon on the fifth lap, and the two Spaniards battled upfront for the lead for the remainder of the race.
With just 6 laps to go, Elias mad a fantastic overtaking move to regain the lead, and was able to hold onto it until he crossed the checkered flags. It was Elias' fifth win of the Moto2 season, and makes him the clear contender for the title.
Scott Redding crossed the line in third to claim his first ever podium victory, and Andrea Iannone was close behind in fourth. Iannone let Elias widen the gap in the Moto2 standings, but things could have been much worse. Iannone started from the 7th row today, and had a great race to work his way back up into the top five.
Simon Corsi also started from the back of the pack, but was able to maneuver his way up into the fifth place spot.
Thomas Luthi, who finished 7th, is now tied in third place with Julian Simon, behind Andrea Iannone and Toni Elias.
All the Americans improved on their starting positions today, and Jasin Di Salvo managed to break into the top ten with a ninth place finish. Roger Lee Hayden was the next hometown boy to cross the line in 17th, followed by Kenny Noyes in 19th.
Moto2 - Indianapolis GP - Race Results
| Pos. | | | Rider | Nation | | Bike | | Time/Gap |
| 1 |
|
|
Toni ELIAS |
SPA |
|
Moriwaki |
|
30'27.480 |
| 2 |
|
|
Julian SIMON |
SPA |
|
Suter |
|
+0.405 |
| 3 |
|
|
Scott REDDING |
GBR |
|
Suter |
|
+4.227 |
| 4 |
|
|
Andrea IANNONE |
ITA |
|
Speed Up |
|
+5.978 |
| 5 |
|
|
Simone CORSI |
ITA |
|
Motobi |
|
+7.058 |
| 6 |
|
|
Sergio GADEA |
SPA |
|
Pons Kalex |
|
+9.432 |
| 7 |
|
|
Thomas LUTHI |
SWI |
|
Moriwaki |
|
+9.815 |
| 8 |
|
|
Gabor TALMACSI |
HUN |
|
Speed Up |
|
+10.141 |
| 9 |
|
|
Jason DI SALVO |
USA |
|
FTR |
|
+17.564 |
| 10 |
|
|
Anthony WEST |
AUS |
|
MZ-RE Honda |
|
+17.592 |
- Great Roads Series: New Mexico SR 64, "The Road Less Traveled" - Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:10:00 +0000
I recently took a flaming orange Triumph Triple on a solo ride through New Mexico and Colorado. One of my goals on such trips is to sample several roads I have not ridden before. I am also perpetually seeking what the great poet Robert Frost called the road “less traveled by.”
I found just such a road in New Mexico's State Route 64 in the extreme northern region of the state. The portion of the highway that I sampled started in the amazing little pueblo city of Taos, NM. Taos is an eccentric arts and tourist town that sits on the high-desert mesa at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s a must visit town if you are in this part of the Southwest.
State Route 64 leaves Taos to the north. After only 10 miles you will reach the impressive Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. The cantilever truss bridge spans the gorge at 650 feet above the Rio Grande. You need to park the bike and walk across the bridge to take in the amazing views in both directions. The rust-colored cliffs that spire from the waters of the legendary Rio Grande are worth of your best attempts at photography.
After the Gorge Bridge, SR 64 is relatively straight for about 20 miles, but the high desert scenery will keep you occupied. However, after that 20-mile jaunt, the twisties begin. The road winds its way beautifully toward the mountains of southern Colorado. The blacktop is smooth and well banked and the views are spectacular. The best thing is that this really is the road “less traveled by.” I encountered only a half dozen other vehicles in more than 50 miles. You will spend most of your ride concentrating on the turns and the scenery rather than negotiating traffic.
After about 100 miles, you will have the same dilemma Robert Frost had when he found that “Two roads diverged in a wood.” If you stay on SR 64, you’ll be heading toward Farmington, NM. If you take Highway 84, you will be heading into southern Colorado. You’ll find great things no matter which way you go.
The 100 miles I have described of Highway 64 is only a small portion of U.S. Route 64 that runs for 2,326 miles from eastern North Carolina to just southwest of the Four Corners region of northeast Arizona. I will venture to say that this stretch contains some of the best motorcycling that the highway has to offer.
- BSB: Hill Beats Brookes for Pole Position - Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:54:00 +0000
- Tommy Hill took the top spot on the track today as the British Superbike riders fought for grid positions at Cadwell Park. The three round Swan Combi Roll for Poll ended with Hill on top, his first pole position in three months, followed by Josh Brookes and Ryuichi Kiyonari.
Hill, Brookes, and Kiyonari have all secured there spots in the final six for the British Superbike Showdown, but they are all aiming for the podium this weekend. Only podium points will carry over into the final three rounds of the British Superbike, and king Kiyo leads the way with 23. Hill and Brooks are close behind with 20 and 19.
Michael Rutter had three solid qualifying rounds, and will start from the front of the second row ahead of Simon Andrews. Michael Laverty, who started the Swan Combi Roll for poll strong and led the way after Q1, dropped down to sixth and will complete the second row.
The biggest victory of the day came from Alastair Seeley. Seeley is barely holding onto the final spot in the top six, but his ninth place finish today will give him a little breathing room during the race. Seeley's biggest competition, John Laverty, only managed a 17th place finish
British Superbike - Cadwell Park - Swan Combi Roll for Poll
1. Tommy Hill GBR Worx Crescent Suzuki 1m 27.343s
2. Josh Brookes AUS HM Plant Honda 1m 27.695s
3. Ryuichi Kiyonari JPN HM Plant Honda 1m 27.836s
4. Michael Rutter GBR Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati 1m 28.003s
5. Simon Andrews GBR MSS Colchester Kawasaki 1m 28.109s
6. Michael Laverty GBR Relentless by TAS Suzuki 1m 28.110s
7. James Ellison GBR Swan Honda 1m 28.422s
8. Alastair Seeley GBR Relentless by TAS Suzuki 1m 28.893s
9. Yukio Kagayama JPN Worx Crescent Suzuki 1m 28.918s
10. Tommy Bridewell GBR Tyco Honda 1m 29.044s
11. Dan Linfoot GBR Motorpoint Yamaha 1m 29.426s
12. Chris Walker GBR Sorrymate.com SMT Honda 1m 29.456s
13. Stuart Easton GBR Swan Honda 1m 29.576s
14. Peter Hickman GBR Ultimate Yamaha 1m 29.637s
15. Gary Mason GBR MSS Colchester Kawasaki 1m 29.640s
16. Adam Jenkinson GBR Buildbase Kawasaki 1m 29.658s
17. John Laverty GBR Buildbase Kawasaki 1m 29.905s
18. Steve Brogan GBR Jentin Racing BMW 1m 30.239s
19. David Johnson AUS Becsport Suzuki 1m 30.934s
20. Chris Burns GBR Splitlath Aprilia 1m 31.333s
- Nicky Hayden signs for another 2 years with Ducati - Sun, 29 Aug 2010 13:47:00 +0000
Nicky Hayden went back to his roots to announce his agreement with Ducati to stay for another 2 years. He announced it at a Flat Track event on the eve of his 3rd place start on the grid at the Red Bull Indianapolis MotoGP. At the press conference at the Brick Yard earlier he confirmed the rumor that he would be riding a few laps at the evenings race meeting but "taking it easy, and not competing in any of the heats".
He also said at the press conference that he was "exstatic about his first front row start and that he needs his race pace to be there at the very start, the bike feels good and I love the front row"
Sitting next to him was the pole sitter Ben Spies who in the press conference said "pole at the MotoGP is the ultimate, Tech 3 put me in this place to get this pole, tomorrow will be a hard 45 minutes. It's all about the start I have to get a good start" when asked "can you translate this pole into a win?" Spies said, "I have to go for it, I wouldnt' be a racer without going for it, just get a good start and hang in there, and try to stay up front for the first few laps but a good start is key".
Jorge Lorenzo commented on how "tough" the track is, "its just so bumpy, it doesn't give you front tire confidence, I did push to the max for the pole but I just couldnt' get it.
Now it's onto race day let's see if the two Americans can translate the front grid to a home win.
   
- Dungey Clinches MX Title at Southwick - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 22:21:00 +0000
 There are still two more races left in the 2010 AMA 450 National Motocross Championship, but for Ryan Dungey, the celebration starts today. Dungey swept both Motos at Southwick, clinching the AMA Motocross title.
You can't have a better rookie season than the one that Dungey put together this year. He won the AMA Supercross earlier this year, and he just became the first rookie ever to win the AMA Motocross Championship, and he did so in dominating style.
Not only has Dungey won the last nine races, but he won today's second moto by more than 20 seconds.
Dungey wasn't nearly as dominating in the first Moto though, and only took the win because Brett Metcalfe ran out of fuel on the final lap. Metcalfe, who led Dungey form the beginning of the race, was on his way to his first Motocross victory. But with just a half lap remaining, Metcalfe's bike puttered to a stop, and Dungey rode by to victory.
After the first Moto, Dungey was crowned the AMA Motocross champion. But instead of taking it easy in the moto2, Dungey picked up the speed for one more victory.
Mike Alessi took the second place spot at Southwick, claiming a third place win in the first moto, and fourth in moto2. Matt Goerke took 3rd with a 6/3 finish and Kyle Chisholm took fourth with 4/6.
In the 250 class, the battle between Trey Canard and Chris Pourcel was entertaining and intense. Canard took the first Moto win, and cut Pourcel's lead from 16 down to 5.
Canard was well within striking distance heading into moto2, but only managed a ninth place finish. Pourcel's 7/3 results helped to keep some distance between his rival, and it's likely that the 250 championship will be decided in the final round.
- Simon Takes Maiden Pole Position in Moto2 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 20:32:00 +0000
 An hour after Ben Spies took his first pole position in MotoGP, Julian Simon earned his maiden pole victory in the Moto2. Simon beat out Hector Faubel and Scott Redding to take the win during the qualifying session at the Red Bull Indy GP.
Simon took his maiden pole on his last effort around the Indy track. Simon's 1'46.139 time overtook both Marc VDS teammates in the closing minues of the qualifying session.
Redding, who was the fastest at both free practice sessions, looked like he was going to continue his dominance to claim the pole position. But late in the session, his teammate, Faubel, put up a fantastic lap to put him up on the top. Both riders fell from the top of the time sheets, however, with Simon's late surge.
The front row of the grid will be completed by Simone Corsi, who claimed fourth place at the Moto2 qualifying at Indy.
The first spot on the second row of the grid was decided by just three thousandths of a second. Anthony West was able to best season leader Toni Elias to lead the second row. Ratthapark Wilairot and Sergio Gadea complete row two.
Andrea Iannone, who is currently Elias' biggest competition for the Moto2 championship, took a bad fall today and finished in 26th. Iannone, as well as Fonsi Nieto, were both taken to the medical center for treatment.
Yusuke Teshima, who crashed in the second free practice session, was able to return to the track for the qualifying, but he could only manage 37th place.
The American riders had another tough outing on the Indy track. Jason DiSalvo finished 27th. Roger Lee Hayden and Kenny Noyes finished in 29th an 30th respectively.
Moto2 - Indianapolis - Qualifying
| Pos. | | Rider | Nation | | Bike | | Time | |
| 1 |
|
Julian SIMON |
SPA |
|
Suter |
|
1'46.139 |
|
| 2 |
|
Hector FAUBEL |
SPA |
|
Suter |
|
1'46.287 |
|
| 3 |
|
Scott REDDING |
GBR |
|
Suter |
|
1'46.334 |
|
| 4 |
|
Simone CORSI |
ITA |
|
Motobi |
|
1'46.358 |
|
| 5 |
|
Anthony WEST |
AUS |
|
MZ-RE Honda |
|
1'46.365 |
|
| 6 |
|
Toni ELIAS |
SPA |
|
Moriwaki |
|
1'46.368 |
|
| 7 |
|
Ratthapark WILAIROT |
THA |
|
Bimota |
|
1'46.454 |
|
| 8 |
|
Sergio GADEA |
SPA |
|
Pons Kalex |
|
1'46.561 |
|
| 9 |
|
Stefan BRADL |
GER |
|
Suter |
|
1'46.709 |
|
| 10 |
|
Raffaele DE ROSA |
ITA |
|
Tech 3 |
|
1'46.739 |
|
- Spies Secures First Ever Pole Position - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 19:36:00 +0000
- When Ben Spies lines up tomorrow at the Indy GP in front of his home crowd, he'll be sitting in the first position on the grid. Spies had a great qualifying today to capture his first ever pole position at the MotoGP level.
Racing on American soil is a rare opportunity for the rookie, but the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider, and newly appointed successor to the throne of Rossi, seized that opportunity and beat out season leader Jorge Lorenzo for the pole position.
Spies set his fastest lap of 1'40.105 on his 26th of 28 laps, and added another season highlight to an already successful rookie year. But Ben Spies wasn't the only American to have a good day.
After Lorenzo, Nicky Hayden came shooting across the line to claim the last spot on the front row of the grid. Hayden missed out on the second place spot by just a hundredth of a second.
Throughout the year, commentators have been comparing Spies rookie season to Hayden's phenomenal start in the MotoGP in 2003. Those who argue in favor of Spies just got a big boost, as Hayden didn't record his first pole position until his third year in the premier class.
The two Repsol Honda riders will start the second row of the grid. Andrea Dovizioso, who held the top spot briefly during the qualifying round, finished in fourth, just 8 hundredths of a second ahead of his teammate.
Casey Stoner, who has been the fastest at Indy so far this weekend, could only manage a sixth place finish. Stoner finished a half a second back behind Spies.
Valentino Rossi will try to get his MotoGP season back on track from the third row of the grid. Rossi hit the pavement again during the qualifying session, but any injuries were sustained by his ego and not his body.
For the first time this season, two Americans will be starting from the front row of the grid. The crowd at the Indy GP will have an exciting race tomorrow as Spies will try for his first ever MotoGP win.
MotoGP - Indianapolis - Qualifying Round
| Pos. | | Rider | Nation | Team | | | Time | |
| 1 |
|
Ben SPIES |
USA |
Monster Yamaha Tech 3 |
|
|
1'40.105 |
|
| 2 |
|
Jorge LORENZO |
SPA |
Fiat Yamaha Team |
|
|
1'40.325 |
|
| 3 |
|
Nicky HAYDEN |
USA |
Ducati Team |
|
|
1'40.336 |
|
| 4 |
|
Andrea DOVIZIOSO |
ITA |
Repsol Honda Team |
|
|
1'40.559 |
|
| 5 |
|
Dani PEDROSA |
SPA |
Repsol Honda Team |
|
|
1'40.637 |
|
| 6 |
|
Casey STONER |
AUS |
Ducati Team |
|
|
1'40.664 |
|
| 7 |
|
Valentino ROSSI |
ITA |
Fiat Yamaha Team |
|
|
1'41.005 |
|
| 8 |
|
Marco SIMONCELLI |
ITA |
San Carlo Honda Gresini |
|
|
1'41.092 |
|
| 9 |
|
Colin EDWARDS |
USA |
Monster Yamaha Tech 3 |
|
|
1'41.232 |
|
| 10 |
|
Loris CAPIROSSI |
ITA |
Rizla Suzuki MotoGP |
|
|
1'41.512 |
|
- Spies gets his first pole at home and the crowd goes wild - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 19:20:00 +0000
Ben Spies in the 26th lap delivered what was needed to take his first pole here at home in the Red Bull Indianapolis MotoGP with a 1,40.105. You could feel the determination in all of the American riders in the paddock today, it's as if there is even more pressure on them to perform than normal when actually racing on their own soil.
Nick Hayden took 3rd place on the grid with a 1,40.336 with the sandwiched rider between the two Americans being Jorge Lorenzo with a 1,40.325.
Valentino Rossi didn't have a good day losing the front twice first in free practice this morning then in actual qualifying practice, the second fall was 5 minutes before the end and he never got out again, so he starts 7th on the grid.
Now that he is on his way to Ducati there is a lot of talk about him maybe not pushing as much as he could for the last few rounds, maybe he should have had a few more races off after his big crash.
We can only wait and see what happens tomorrow, but you know that the local lads will be going "all out" tomorrow for the podium.
 
 
- Brookes Back on Top after FP2 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:03:00 +0000
 Josh Brookes didn't make the top five during the first free practice session at Cadwell Park this morning, but for FP2, Brookes was able to put plenty of space between him and the rest of the pack.
Brookes was the first and only rider to finish under the 1'28 mark, setting a 1.27'945 lap time midway through the session. Brookes led for most of the day, and finished just under a half second ahead of FP1 winner Simon Andrews.
Andrews overtook Tommy hill halfway through the session, and when the rain started to fall, Hill dropped down another place to a charging Ryuichi Kiyonari. Kiyonari couldn't catch up to Brookes or Andrews, and had to settle for a third place finish during the second free practice session.
Michael Rutter was next across the line behind hill. Gary Mason was on his way to passing up Rutter, but a wet track during the second half of the session slowed his progress, and gave Mason a 6th place finish.
Yukio Kagayama took 7th place ahead of the two Swan Honda riders, James Ellison and Stuart Easton. Easton still has a shot at the top six, but he'll need two race wins this weekend to do so.
Alastair Seeley and John Laverty, who are the main contenders for the coveted 6th spot, finished in 12th and 13th today. Seeley currently holds the sixth place position, but only has 10 points separating himself from Laverty.
British Superbike - Cadwell Park - 2nd Free Practice Session
- Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) 1m:27.945s
- Simon Andrews (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +0.480s
- Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +0.662s
- Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +0.680s
- Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +0.748s
- Gary Mason (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +1.025s
- Yukio Kagayama (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +1.038s
- Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +1.297s
- James Ellison (Swan Honda) +1.593s
- Stuart Easton (Swan Honda) +1.943s
- Redding Repeats in FP2 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 16:40:00 +0000
 For the second day in a row, the Marc VDS Racing team rider, Scott Redding, has found himself on the top of the time sheets. Redding rode to another victory at the end of the second free practice session for the Moto2 at the Red Bull Indy GP.
Redding surprised a lot of people during the first free practice session, as he put in one final lap to oust Toni Elias from the top spot on the time sheets. But today, he proved that his quick speed wasn't just a fluke.
The young Brit finished .135 seconds ahead of Andrea Iannone, and improved on his FP1 time by more than 7 tenths of a second. Iannone needs a race win if he wants to close the gap on Toni Elias, but with Redding in top form, a number one finish could be hard to come by.
Ratthapark Wilairot took the third place spot. Wilariot was another rider who used the final lap to show his quickest speed. Wilariot finished just two tenths off of Redding, narrowly beating out Julian Simon, who finished in fourth.
Season leader Toni Elias came across the line in fifth place. Elias has won the last two races in Moto2, but he'll have some tough competition to overcome to get the race win at Indy.
Raffaele De Rosa, Anthony West, followed Elias for 6th and 7th, and Yusuke Teshima came across in 8th. Teshima had a big crash at the end of the session, and was attended to by medics on the side of the track. His participation for the rest of the weekend is currently in question.
Jason Di Salvo was the highest placing American. Di Savlo finished in 23rd place. Roger Lee Hayden and Kenny Noyes had less successful outings during the second free practice session, finishing in 25th and 31st respectively.
Moto2 - Indianapolis - 2nd Free Practice Session
| Pos. | | Rider | | Team | Bike | | Time | |
| 1 |
|
Scott REDDING |
|
Marc VDS Racing Team |
Suter |
|
1'46.068 |
|
| 2 |
|
Andrea IANNONE |
|
Fimmco Speed Up |
Speed Up |
|
1'46.203 |
|
| 3 |
|
Ratthapark WILAIROT |
|
Thai Honda PTT Singha SAG |
Bimota |
|
1'46.265 |
|
| 4 |
|
Julian SIMON |
|
Mapfre Aspar Team |
Suter |
|
1'46.286 |
|
| 5 |
|
Toni ELIAS |
|
Gresini Racing Moto2 |
Moriwaki |
|
1'46.499 |
|
| 6 |
|
Raffaele DE ROSA |
|
Tech 3 Racing |
Tech 3 |
|
1'46.561 |
|
| 7 |
|
Anthony WEST |
|
MZ Racing Team |
MZ-RE Honda |
|
1'46.562 |
|
| 8 |
|
Yusuke TESHIMA |
|
JIR Moto2 |
Motobi |
|
1'46.723 |
|
| 9 |
|
Stefan BRADL |
|
Viessmann Kiefer Racing |
Suter |
|
1'46.734 |
|
| 10 |
|
Sergio GADEA |
|
Tenerife 40 Pons |
Pons Kalex |
|
1'46.784 |
|
- MotoGP: Stoner Stays on Top After FP2 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:40:00 +0000
 Saying that Casey Stoner wants to win the Red Bull Indy GP, is an understatement. Stoner has set the tone and pace for the MotoGP at Indianapolis, and he is riding aggressively to stay on top of the field.
Stoner ripped the slider from his knee during the second free practice session, and then had a lowside fall about halfway through. But a determined Stoner was able to limp his way back onto his bike, and on his final lap, overcame the two Repsol Honda riders to top the time sheets once again.
Stoner set a 1'40.331 time, dropping his first free practice time down by a half second. But despite Stoner's tone setting speed, the Honda riders were still nipping at his heels. Dani Pedrosa finished just .058 seconds behind Stoner, improving on his first free practice time by more than a second.
Pedrosa's teammate, Andrea Dovizioso, also had a much improved second session, finishing just a tenth of a second behind Stoner.
Jorge Lorenzo was next across the line. The season leader finished three tenths of a second back. With a 77 point lead, Lorenzo says that he is aiming for top five finishes, but Lorenzo has yet to show that he has the discipline to resist pulling back the throttle.
The two American boys were next across the line. Nicky Hayden, again, was the highest placing American during today's free practice session. His 1'40.878 time for fifth place made him the final rider under the 1'41 mark. Ben Spies finished just over 1'41 for the sixth best time in the session.
Marco Simoncelli and Colin Edwards took spots 7 and 8, while Valentino Rossi came across in ninth. Rossi took a fall with 20 minutes left in the session, but uninjured, was able to return quickly to the track. Still, Rossi was not able to improve on the day, setting his best time on just his fifth lap.
Rossi was the final rider to finish within one second of Stoner, but he'll need to improve his speed if he wants to start on the front row of the grid.
MotoGP - Indianapolis - Second Free Practice Session
| Pos. | | Rider | Nation | Team | | | Time | |
| 1 |
|
Casey STONER |
AUS |
Ducati Team |
|
|
1'40.331 |
|
| 2 |
|
Dani PEDROSA |
SPA |
Repsol Honda Team |
|
|
1'40.389 |
|
| 3 |
|
Andrea DOVIZIOSO |
ITA |
Repsol Honda Team |
|
|
1'40.432 |
|
| 4 |
|
Jorge LORENZO |
SPA |
Fiat Yamaha Team |
|
|
1'40.642 |
|
| 5 |
|
Nicky HAYDEN |
USA |
Ducati Team |
|
|
1'40.878 |
|
| 6 |
|
Ben SPIES |
USA |
Monster Yamaha Tech 3 |
|
|
1'41.061 |
|
| 7 |
|
Marco SIMONCELLI |
ITA |
San Carlo Honda Gresini |
|
|
1'41.136 |
|
| 8 |
|
Colin EDWARDS |
USA |
Monster Yamaha Tech 3 |
|
|
1'41.192 |
|
| 9 |
|
Valentino ROSSI |
ITA |
Fiat Yamaha Team |
|
|
1'41.232 |
|
| 10 |
|
Aleix ESPARGARO |
SPA |
Pramac Racing Team |
|
|
1'41.354 |
|
- Marines Ride Them in Iraq – Would You Ride One in Kansas? - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:34:00 +0000
The Kawasaki KLR 650 has been a favorite do-it-all motorcycle for decades. It is a simple, tough-as-nails bike. The simple fact is that the KLR does nothing exceptionally well, but it can do almost anything adequately. It is the ultimate compromise motorcycle. You can run it at 75 mph for hundreds of miles on a tour, or you can blast down a fire road (as long as you don’t push its suspension too far). I know the ins and outs of the big 650 – I’ve owned three of them over the years. As much as I liked all of my KLRs, it’s the one that I will probably never own that interests me the most.
I began reading about he military diesel KLR back in the late 90s. The Marine spec bike is reported to get near 100 mpg while delivering stump pulling torque. You may ask, “Why would the military want a diesel KLR?” Well, the answer is twofold. First, the military needs a vehicle that can get through the tight spots that a Jeep or Hummer can’t. The versatile KLR is a likely candidate. Okay, so why diesel? That answer is simple. That’s what all the other military vehicles run on. It would not be practical to have two separate fuel sources in combat situations.
So could the general motorcycling public ever own one of these military mountain goats? For over a decade, there have been rumors and supposed plans to produce civilian diesel KLRs. Those plans have never materialized. However, Hayes Diversified Technologies, Inc., the military supplier of light diesel engines (including the one used in the KLR) is starting to test the civilian market. In an open letter in February on the Sport-Touring.net website, HDT wrote:
“Thank you for your recent inquiry regarding the availability of HDT diesel and gasoline powered motorcycles for consumers. As you are probably aware, HDT has made announcements in the past about releasing a diesel powered motorcycle to the consumer public. Despite previous efforts to produce this motorcycle, plans were never actuated due to resource constraints and an effort to keep with our core focus of developing vehicle products for the US Military. Beginning in July 2009, HDT has undergone a major expansion which has put us in a position to properly consider a commercial motorcycle product offering…We are currently gathering market data to determine the true level of interest in these products…”
Reports are that such a motorcycle would be priced above the $15,000 threshold. That’s too rich for my blood. However, wouldn’t it be an interesting ride?
- BSB: Andrews at the Top During FP1 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 14:36:00 +0000
 Simon Andrews may not be able to qualify for the top six and compete in the British Superbike Showdown, but the Kawasaki man is doing all he can to end his BSB season with a bang.
Andrews surprised a lot of people at Cadwell Park today when he bested Tommy Hill's time with just 8 minutes left in the first free practice session.. Andrews has yet to finish on the podium this year, and his best qualifying so far has been 12th place.
Ryuichi Kiyonari came the closest to passing up Andrews time, but fell .037 seconds short. Kiyonari put in his quickest lap with just thirty seconds remaining in the session, setting the tone between him and Tommy Hill for the important upcoming races at Cadwell Park.
Andrews' teammate, Gary Mason, was another surprising name toward the top of the time sheets. Mason rode into fourth place, beating out Michael Rutter and Josh Brookes. The MSS Kawaski team was ecstatic to see both of their riders up in the top five, and will work to keep the green machines toward the top of the leader board throughout the weekend.
Michael Laverty finished in 7th place, but the big battle this weekend will come from the 8-10 riders. Stuart Easton, John Laverty, and Alastair Seeley are all fighting for the last spot on the top six. Seeley has the advantage going into the weekend, but finished last between the three, .5 seconds behind Easton, and .15 seconds behind Laverty.
British Superbike - Cadwell Park II - Free Practice
- Simon Andrews (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) 1m:28.589s
- Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda) +0.037s
- Tommy Hill (Worx Crescent Suzuki) +0.057s
- Gary Mason (MSS Colchester Kawasaki) +0.185s
- Michael Rutter (Ridersmotorcycles.com Ducati) +0.202s
- Josh Brookes (HM Plant Honda) +0.211s
- Michael Laverty (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +0.551s
- Stuart Easton (Swan Honda) +0.717s
- John Laverty (Buildbase Kawasaki) +1.013s
- Alastair Seeley (Relentless Suzuki by TAS) +1.278s
- Project Trackgasm: The First Knee Drag - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 04:15:00 +0000
 So, it's my second time out at Nelson Ledges. Let's just say my first go round wasn't confidence inspiring. How about I paint the masterpiece for you. Picture me, 220lbs of man in a set of old 2 piece leathers that were, let's not mince words, tight as hell. What reason possessed me to squeeze my fat ass into these things is beyond comprehension, but everyone on the track got a great look of my ass crack as I passed them, or better yet, as they passed me. I was a little shook. Not on my bike, not in my leathers, and on a brand new track for me was a recipe for a crash, but I held it together and got through the session unharmed. I can't say the same for the women and children that got an X-Rated version of the bulge. Leaving nothing to the imagination.
Now on my second visit to Nelson I had the proper gear, proper bike, and I knew the track a little better. I get the party started on my Gixxer 600 and cruise around, feeling better about the whole situation. How could I not be happy knowing that my fellow racers weren't staring at my ass. Anyway, off to the races, and I'm picking up speed in every lap. And finally, like someone opened up the floodgates of cool... scrrrrrrrape. My knee touched for the first time and to tell you the truth, it was scary as running through a beehive naked and covered in honey. First thought through the ol boys head was that I'm going to wreck, no doubt. But the bike pulled up, and I got out into the straight away. The more I learned the track, the more I scraped. And that was with crappy body position, which Julian said that I had at the time.
The pics don't lie...Although it has drastically improved, the fact remains that I'm on camera with ass backwards body position. Oh well, live and learn. Every trip I take to the track, I get a little faster, and learn something new. Julian, who's fast as a greased up Cheetah, has been a great mentor. Although, it's quite a pain in the ass when I'm trying to follow him to learn lines and I just lag behind like I'm standing still. But I'm excited to keep leaarning, scrapring, and not wrecking.
- Live from Indy Moto GP: Day 1 - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 04:01:00 +0000
 Casey Stoner leads in the first practice session but stated that 70% of the surface should be repaved.
In a quiet garage at the back of the Paddock at the Red Bull Indianapolis MotoGP, Casey Stoner talked to a few journalists after his first practice session of the weekend. Admittedly he finished on the top spot with a 1m40.884 on Bridgestone slicks with Jorge Lorenzo behind him on a 1m 41.109, but he was not happy with a few things around the circuit.
He set the fastest lap but mention how "unhappy" he is with the surface of this historic circuit. He went on to say that over 70% of this circuit should be repaved.
His words are directly on the back of a press release from Indianapolis Motor Speedway releasing the news that next year will be the fourth year in a row this race has been held here. August the 26th-28th are the dates for 2011.
When asked what Casey thought of that his reply was "they better start working now, 70% of this race circuit needs replacing and you really feel the difference after coming from a new circuit like Silverstone"
The Brick Yard has history, over 100 years of history, is it time for a new road surface do you think?
- Tired of Mangled Knuckles? Time for Mechanix Wear Fast Fit Gloves - Sat, 28 Aug 2010 01:26:00 +0000
As I sit writing this piece, a raw knuckle stares back at me from the keyboard.
Okay, I am officially tired of busted knuckles from a slipped wrench, burned fingers from an unexpectedly hot exhaust, and cuts on my hands from those dastardly sharp bodywork panels. If you work on your own bikes like I do, you know exactly what I mean.
It’s time for a pair of those mechanics gloves we see in every pit at every racetrack in America. Enter the Mechanix Wear Fast Fit Gloves. For a buy in price of about $16, I can’t believe I haven’t owned a pair of these before.
The Fast Fit Gloves live up to their name. The angled elastic cuff allows easy entry and exit, so there is no reason not to slip them on before picking up that ratchet. The gloves feature Lycra panels between the fingers and a synthetic leather palm. They are very comfortable and are not so bulky as to impede most mechanical functions. However, you will surely take them off for the most intricate applications.
The Mechanix Wear Fast Fit Gloves come in three colors (black, red and blue) and sizes small through 2XL.
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