Two-wheel quarter-mile record smashed

France's Eric Teboul smashed his own records for the quickest elapsed time and fastest speed ever recorded by a motorcycle in the quarter-mile during an event at Santa Pod Raceway in England this past weekend. Teboul ran an almost surreal 5.209-second lap at 281.47 mph on his hydrogen peroxide-powered Rocket Bike.

It was a fitting tribute to his late friend and rocket car legend Sammy Miller, who passed away nine years ago to the day in a non-racing accident.

Teboul admits that the bike has four-second, 300 mph potential, but stopping the motorcycle at those speeds is proving to be the biggest drawback in attempting such a feat.

Colin Edwards to miss MotoGP Final at Valencia

Colin Edwards will not be riding at the MotoGP final in Valencia, Spain next week as the 37-year-old Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider is still recovering from injuries sustained at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang last weekend.

According to a news release from Yamaha Racing, "Edwards was assessed by orthopedic specialist Dr. Henry Small at the University General Hospital in Houston on Wednesday and it was confirmed he has multiple fractures to the top of his left humerus bone, which connects the shoulder to the elbow." The release went on to explain that Edwards will require surgery next Tuesday, and with a four-week recovery period, Edwards will be unable to participate in the final round of the MotoGP series in Valencia on November 6.

Updated: According to a press release from Teknic, AMA Pro Superbike Champion Josh Hayes will replace Colin Edwards on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team at the final round in Valencia, Spain next weekend. Hayes got the call from Yamaha late on October 26 asking if he would replace the injured rider. Teknic, one of Hayes' sponsors, has agreed to supply him with the suits required for his MotoGP debut.

Everyone at Inside Motorcycles wishes Colin a speedy recovery both physically and emotionally is he is no doubt also struggling with the emotional consequences of a tragic and unfortunate racing incident that took the life of fellow rider Marco Simoncelli in Sepang last weekend.

Marco Simoncelli Laid to Rest: Thousands Bid Farewell

Marco Simoncelli was laid to rest today in his hometown of Coriano, Italy. Thousands of family, friends and motorcycle enthusiasts lined the streets surrounding the Santa Maria Assunta church in Coriano to bid farewell to the 24-year-old rising MotoGP star who was involved in a tragic accident at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia last Sunday.

Among those who joined Marco's family- his father Paolo, mother Rosella, sister Martina and girlfriend Kate- were his close friend Valentino Rossi, as well as Loris Capirossi, Andrea Dovizioso, Jorge Lorenzo, Toni Elias, Randy de Puniet, Sete Gibernau, and close friend and former team mate Marco Melandri as well as his 2011 team mate Hiroshi Aoyama.

Marco's casket was flanked by his Gilera bike, on which he won the 2008 250cc World Championship, and his Gresini Honda RC212V motorcycle on which he competed in the MotoGP championship.

Thousands watched from television screens outside the church, sporting #58 apparel, flags and memorabilia, while other donned their racing leathers. A television screen was also set up at the nearby Misano Circuit. #CiaoMarco quickly trended as the world said goodbye to a dynamic, energetic and spirited rider.

According to Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, "What I experienced in Coriano was very moving. After seeing the turnout of citizens, fans and the whole paddock there is no doubt that a great rider and a brilliant person has left us. The outpouring of affection that has been shown demonstrates that he has left his mark." Rest in Peace, Marco.

McCormick comes home, sets the record straight

[Editor's note: Contrary to some internet reports, Canadian champ Brett McCormick has not signed on with Team Effenbert Liberty to race WSBK next year...]
Reigning Canadian Superbike Championship by Parts Canada overall number one Brett McCormick of Saskatoon, SK, has certainly been on the move of late. Following three weeks in Europe competing in SuperStock rounds in France and Spain and visiting the BMW works SBK team in Germany, McCormick has finally returned to Canada.

Now McCormick is on a road trip, relaxing and exercising while visiting race and school friends at various points in western Canada. Slated to spend Halloween on the west coast with Harley-Davidson XR1200 Cup Pro aces Darren James and Steve Crevier, IM caught up with McCormick on Sunday night, October 23, following a full day of mountain biking west of Calgary, AB.

When asked about rumours that he was slated to ride for a works supported Ducati effort on the World Superbike tour in 2012, McCormick explained that “everyone acts really interested, and it seems like there are opportunities with both BMW and maybe Ducati in Europe. It could be World Superbike, or it could be a full season on the FIM SuperStock 1000 Cup bikes.”

McCormick, age 20, competed in the final two rounds of the Superstock tour in Europe, riding for the Garnier Alpha Racing Team aboard a BMW S1000RR in a “sorta try out” arranged by BMW Motorrad Canada. After a rough start at Magny-Cours October 2 where he worked his way up to 13th overall, McCormick was happier at the series finale at Portimao October 16 where he edged his teammate to net 10th out of 29 entrants.

Superstock is considered a stepping stone for the feature Superbike class, and the rules are similar to those used in the Canadian SBK class, where McCormick won six out of a possible seven 2011 races aboard his works-supported BMW.

Following the race in Portugal, McCormick represented Inside Motorcycles at the same venue in an exclusive works machinery track test – check an upcoming issue for the Champ’s review. A strong effort during the Monday Media Day led to series tire supplier Pirelli recommending McCormick for a Ducati Superbike tire test the next day.

So on Tuesday, October 18, McCormick spent the afternoon turning 30 laps aboard the Effenbert Liberty Ducati 1098R, turning the ninth best lap time of the day. His best lap at 1:44.2 compared well with that posted by regular rider veteran Jacob Smrz in the actual second race, quickest of the day at 1:44.08.

“I’m not counting my chickens,” continued McCormick, referring to his aim of moving to the European tour next season. “I think I showed that I belong there. I feel capable of doing well in Europe, and my trip overall bodes well.”

“We should know more in a couple of weeks. My goal, I think my best chance for seasoning, is Superstock. I’d be happy to move straight to Superbike, I don’t think I’m far off the pace at all, but I think Superstock would be my first choice, to learn the tracks and get used to everything.”

SOAR announces 2012 Schedule

The Southern Ontario Association of Racing has released its 2012 schedule.

The motorcycle road racing series will make four stops at Grand Bend Motorplex, a positive sign for the new road course that SOAR made their first stop at this past August. Toronto Motorsports Park, which has been the unofficial 'home' track of SOAR over the past few years, will host two events.

Round #1 May 25-27
Grand Bend Motorplex Long Track

Round #2 June 15-17
Grand Bend Motorplex Modified Track
With Thunder by the Beach all bike drag races

Round #3 July 28-30
Grand Bend Motorplex Technical Track

Round #4 September 7-9
Toronto Motorsports Park Reverse Direction

Round #5 September 28-30
Grand Bend Motorplex Screaming Alien Track

Round #6 October 12-14
Toronto Motorsports Park Regular Direction

R.I.P. Marco Simoncelli

It is with great sadness that we learn today that Marco Simoncelli succumbed to his injuries in Sepang, Malaysia following Sunday's MotoGP race.

The 24-year Italian rider was involved in an accident on lap two of the Malaysian Grand Prix. The race was red flagged and later cancelled. Despite the efforts of the medical team, Marco succumbed to his injuries at 4:56pm local time.

Marco will be remembered as a vibrant, enthusiastic rider who always brought lots of energy to the MotoGP paddock. Inside Motorcycles would like to express our sincerest condolences to Marco's friends and family.

Charly Vu Returns from Red Bull Rookies Tryouts

Charly Vu, the 13 year old Toronto-based motorcycle racer was the sole Canadian participant for the 2012 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Selection event at Motorland Aragon in Spain. Charly had arrived in Spain 3 days prior to the selection event in order for him to adjust to the time and climate change.

Once Vu had arrived at the Motorland Aragon Circuit on a very warm Tuesday morning, he was quite surprised to learn that the 100 participants including himself would not be riding the full GP circuit, instead they would be riding the kart track which was much more technical and more suited to the specially prepared Metrakit 125cc bikes.

Vu quickly learned the circuit and his machine during his 15 minute warm-up session. Despite slippery track conditions and worn out tires for his second session he drastically increased his confidence and speeds around the new track and as such was pushing the bike and himself to absolute limit. Unfortunately after 8 laps Vu lost the rear while exiting the final corner coming onto the front straight and was no longer able to continue due to a mechanical issue with his bike. According to Charly, "This event has motivated me even more than ever and now I want nothing more than to be over there to compete against the best."

Lorenzo's Surgery a Success; Yamaha Rider to miss Malaysian Grand Prix

from MotoGP.com

Following successful surgery in Australia, Yamaha Factory Racing rider Jorge Lorenzo has now flown home to Barcelona for a period of recovery.

As already confirmed, the Mallorcan rider will miss this weekend’s Grand Prix of Malaysia. A decision on his participation in the final race of the season at Valencia will be made within the next two weeks dependent on the progress of his recovery.

“Casey has had an incredible season with very few mistakes,” commented Lorenzo. “He has always been very strong and consistent so it has been very difficult to beat him. Congratulations to him, he has been the best this year and deserves his second title, a huge achievement as it comes with a different manufacturer. I would have liked to have fought until the end, maybe until Valencia but the accident on Sunday made it impossible. I am very proud of my team for all the hard work they have put in to take second place in the championship. Now we have to think about next year and work as hard as possible to win again. After the crash I was very worried that I would not have full feeling in my finger again, after the excellent treatment I received, I have been assured that I will have complete feeling in my nerves and tendons. This gives me good confidence; I can’t wait to get back on my M1 again!”

Pirelli brings 17" Tires to World Superbike

Magny-Cours (France), October 1, 2011 - Pirelli announces that starting from 2013, it will begin supplying all the tires for the World Superbike Championship, which currently are produced in 16.5", in the 17" size. This radical option will allow Pirelli to remain even closer to its philosophy, its unique approach towards competition with its continuous transferring of solutions developed in the racing environment into the hands of motorcyclists and into road going product through technologies and developments coming from the highest level production series World Championship for which Pirelli is the sole supplier.

Pirelli's 16.5" Diablo Superbike tires are currently used not only in the Superbike World Championship, but also in World Endurance, BSB and CIV which have been the reference to date. Until 2004 in fact, the unique supplier agreement did not exist in the Superbike World Championship so Pirelli adapted itself to the sizes offered by other suppliers.

In line with the primary goal of WSBK to showcase in the highest level of racing the products also sold on the market, Pirelli will replace the current 16.5" tires with 17" sized tires which have already been successful in the local Superbike championships in New Zealand, Holland, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, Canada, Malaysia and many other local championships.

The 17” slick tire is the optimal response for those seeking top performance without having to modify the chassis: ultra-high performance without mounting a new set of wheels or changing the bike’s settings.

Over the past three years, Pirelli has greatly accelerated its tire development to meet end users’ needs and the power delivered by new bikes: in 2009, Pirelli introduced the new 190/60R17 size, in 2010 introduced a new high modulus carcass (Pirelli Patent), continuously improving compounds and finally in 2011 introduced the new 200/60R17 size.

Compared to the 16,5” slick tire, the 17" one offers a thicker tread for better handling and consistency, its footprint in mid to full lean is approx 10% wider thanks to a higher profile and a carcass able to endure more side force, all those features will definitely bring great benefits to motorcyclists all over the world.

The Superbike World Championship will be an excellent environment that will allow Pirelli, as sole supplier, to develop the best tires for 17", a size that is now more and more demanded by the market, thus remaining faithful to its motto "We sell what we race" and thus continuing to offer riders the highest quality products developed with the help of the great Superbike champions.

Prototype Bike BRD RedShift Electric Motocross

An additional ‘green’ contender for your conventionally driven motorcycles will get ready to storm onto the marketplace in 2012, as Prototype Bike BRD RedShift Electric unveiled their newest development, the electric RedShift motocross device. The white/blue/orange bike comes to strengthen the truth that bikes also ought to turn into less polluting, similar to the trend set with the car

Mickey Rourke Bike Concept by RSD

Concept Mickey Rourke Bike by RSDAmerican actor Mickey Rourke is often a renown motorcycle fanatics and has even applied the adrenaline-popping two-wheeled machines in certain of his movies. Let us consider, for example, the Harley Davidson as well as the Marlboro Male in which he starred as Harley Davidson, a biker whose ideal pal, Marlboro, was played by Don Johnson.The truth is, that movie

McCormick Posts Top 10 Finish in Portimao

Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick is showing the world what Canadians are made of with a top 10 finish aboard his Garnier Alpha Racing Team BMW S1000 RR in the World Superstock FIM Cup 1000 race in Portimao, Portugal this weekend.

McCormick worked his way up from 20th position in the first qualifying session to 15th position in Qualifier #2. On Sunday, the Canadian managed a highly successful 10th place finish with a fastest lap time of 1:47:330, finishing just over 18 seconds behind race winner Danilo Petrucci, who finished with a best time of 1:45:066.

Full results of the Superstock FIM Cup 1000 race can be found on the World Superbike website.

New MotoGP Champion Crowned

From MotoGP.com

In front of his home fans at Phillip Island, Casey Stoner rode a flawless race to claim his second MotoGP World Championship title at the Iveco Australian Grand Prix. Simoncelli and Dovizioso joined the newly crowned Champion on the podium.

The Australian dominated the weekend for the fifth year running, leading the race from start to finish, giving Honda their first riders title since 2006. The 26 year old took the holeshot from pole position and never looked back as the rest of the field battled for positions.

With a strong breeze blowing and darkening skies, the MotoGP race commenced with a rearranged grid following the withdraw of both Yamaha Factory riders and Héctor Barberá’s replacement rider, Damian Cudlin on the Mapfre Aspar team. Jorge Lorenzo withdrew after a high side in the morning warm up left him with a severely injured finger that will require surgery, while Ben Spies is still mildly concussed after a crash in qualifying on Saturday. Cudlin withdrew due to injuries from a crash in Saturday morning practice.

Nicky Hayden (Ducati Team) and Marco Simoncelli (San Carlo Honda Gresini Team) followed Stoner into turn one, with the Italian making an early move on Hayden to take second. Simoncelli then spent the remainder of the race tussling with Andrea Dovizioso (Repsol Honda), beating his compatriot across the line for his best MotoGP finish of second.

Dani Pedrosa was ten seconds adrift of team mate Dovizioso to finish fourth, giving Honda a 1-4 finish, while Colin Edwards (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) inherited fifth place after first Valentino Rossi (Ducati Team) and then Álvaro Bautista (Rizla Suzuki) crashed out of that position. Rossi fell after making a pass on the Bautista, ending his 13 year string of podium finishes at the Australian circuit, while the Suzuki man slipped toward the end of the race as rain began to fall.

The white flag had been shown on lap ten as scattered rain drops appeared, giving riders the option to swap bikes, though the rain didn’t start in earnest until nearly the end, when it claimed not only Bautista but then Cal Crutchlow (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) and Hiroshi Aoyama (San Carlo Honda Gresini).

Hayden was the first to enter the pits to change bikes, followed by Loris Capirossi (Pramac Racing), though it did not help their finishing positions as Hayden ended the race seventh behind Randy de Puniet (Pramac Racing) despite the Frenchman having had an earlier offtrack excursion, while Capirossi finished ninth behind Toni Elías (LCR Honda).

The final race finisher was Karel Abraham (Cardion AB Motoracing), who crossed the line tenth.

CASEY STONER World Championship 2011 ( Australian Grand Prix )

The World Championship 2011 Casey StonerCasey Stoner has sealed the 2011 MotoGP world title with a stunning win at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix on Phillip Island. Reigning champion Lorenzo, 40 points behind Honda's Stoner and the only rider still able to catch him, was declared unfit to race after injuring the fourth finger of his left hand during a warm-up crash on Sunday morning, his

Canadians Invade Trials des Nations

The annual Trial des Nations was held in Tolmezzo Italy on Sept 18th, a small quaint town located in the province of Udine, at the base of the Strabut Mountain. This Team Event is is the most important Motorcycle Trials competition of national teams organized by the International Motorcycling Federation. It has been held since 1984 at many different countries. Each team is represented by four riders representing their country. The riders compete together to combine a score at the end of the day. The team with fewest total penalties is awarded the title.

Team Canada was a perfect mix of east and west talents including 2 Time CMA National Champion Jordan Szoke, 2011 WEC National Champ Champion Jonathan English, 2010 WEC National Champ Champion Will Duggan and 2010 WEC National Expert Champion Devon D’Argis along with Minders Jon Nelson and Chris Duggan.

This particular event was laid out in and around the town of Tolmezzo including rough rocky rural hillsides mixed in with stadium like urban terrain. The challenging loop included 18 sections that were to be completed within the 7hr time limit. Any second over would result in penalty points.

Saturday morning came early as the team picked up their specific motorcycles from their manufacturers. Not a moment was wasted in the pits as a few minor tweaks and adjustments were made. With helmets strapped on they greeted the beautiful sunny skies in the practice area just a few short km’s up the mountain. Mother Nature wasn’t as kind to the riders all weekend as thundershowers were predicted for the event on Sunday.

Team Canada found themselves one of the earliest teams out in the morning to meet their first group of sections. They arrived just in time for the thunder and lightning storms that were predicted. The torrential downpours created a serious challenge to our riders as they navigated through the first slippery loop of two.

“I like the terrain, although I believe that if there were some bigger splatters in there instead of all the technical off camber turns and stuff, it would have suited most of our team’s riding preferences better. We all love the big hits!” smiles Szoke.

Into the pits for a quick sandwich, the guys headed out to complete their last loop, with intermittent showers. “I think the arrival times we had to the sections and the way the weather played into it, it affected us a bit more than we anticipated. Timing was everything with the weather and sometimes I think we may have gotten the short end of the stick on that one.” says Szoke.

Team Canada finished the event 13^th overall with a combined score of 339.

When asked about his experience at his fifth TDN for Team Canada Jon English remarks, “The Italian fans are so very knowledgeable, they would be cheering us on like mad through the rough sections even while we were struggling to save a 3.”

To read more about Team Canada’s TDN experiences watch for an upcoming feature article in Inside Motorcycles.

2012 ZX-14 features big changes

1,441cc's. Nine-second quarter miles off the showroom floor. Welcome the new 2012 Kawasaki ZX-14R.

Kawasaki went back to the drawing board to improve upon what has been touted as the most powerful production motorcycle ever built (though BMW's S1000R, the Yamaha V-Max and soon the Ducati Panigale could challenge that claim).

For starters, they added the 'R' designation, Kawi's identification that this is a racing model (like the previous versions weren't already!).

The engine was entirely revamped and features a massive list of upgrades including a longer 65mm stroke, surface-milled (not cast) combustion chambers, improved intake ports and more durable intake valves, meaning you don't have to get the heads ported - it's done for you already. Camshafts are more radical, redesigned pistons feature oil-jet cooling and a 12.3:1 compression ratio. Kawasaki also noted that connecting rods are now beefier, crankshaft main journals are thicker, and airflow capability is improved by 40%. The fuel injection and exhaust systems have also been revamped for 2012.

The transmission gears have been heat- and surface-treated for durability and smoother shifting, while a race-bred slipper clutch and KTRC (Kawi's traction control) have the task of safely applying all that power to the road or track. The KTRC system will have three modes adjusted by bar-mounted switch and can be monitored on the cockpit's LCD info screen.

Frame, suspension, brakes and bodywork ahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifll got upgrades as well, giving the 14 a well-deserved, front-to-back upgrade (the bike has been relatively unchanged since 2006).

This bike was invented for the drag strip, but is becoming more versatile thanks to some of these upgrades. And anyone who's been astride a 14 knows that it's one of the most comfortable sportbikes to ride, period.

Click the link below for a cool (albeit disputable) video of drag racing legend Rickey Gadson racing the ZX-14R against its arch nemesis, the Suzuki Hayabusa on the dragstrip.

http://ninja14r.kawasaki.com/?cm_mmc=MY12NinjaZX14R-_-KMCPromo-_-HomepageBucket-_-Microsite#details/videos/24

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R 2012

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14RNew Kawasaki ZZR1400 also lastly launched the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R 2012 version. Street monster is carrying a great deal of modifications, mainly a issue of power. four cylinder inline motor. 1441 cc motor capacity, with increased stroke as much as 4 mm. The mixture of aide stroke 84 mm and 65 mm tends to make it a potent torque from low rpm. At 2000 rpm torque has achieved

Ducati 1199 Panigale powered by "Superquadro"

With just a matter of weeks to go until the final unveiling of Ducati’s brand new 1199 Panigale at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in Milan (10-13 November), the Italian manufacturer now reveals the secrets behind the awesome power of its 2012 Superbike.

Ducati’s latest engine, the Superquadro, goes beyond the barriers of engineering to enable the introduction of a futuristic Superbike today. Its no-compromise approach to design, combined with Ducati’s Italian innovation has now set the most extreme benchmark ever and stands as the latest milestone in Ducati’s long and iconic history of Superbike engines.

Ducati engineers were given a near impossible design brief to create the new generation Superbike engine for the Ducati 1199 Panigale. Increase power, torque and user- friendliness and reduce overall vehicle weight and scheduled maintenance costs seemed impossible tasks, but given a “blank canvas” to create the new power-plant and encouraged to think outside-of-the-box to achieve the unachievable, engineers have finally ticked all the boxes.

The innovative Superquadro engine, so called because of its massively over-square bore and stroke ratio, has increased power to an absolute production twin-cylinder milestone of 195hp and torque to 98.1 lb-ft (13.5kgm) with user-friendly Riding Modes that deliver that power appropriate to the rider’s style and environment. Its construction has enabled a radical reduction in overall vehicle weight and, further identifying Ducati’s constant pursuit of performance perfection, major services have been extended to 24,000km (15,000 miles).

Only Fabio Taglioni’s masterpiece 90° L-twin configuration and Desmodromic valve control have been retained from previous engines. Everything else is new.

Parts Canada Withdraws from Canadian Superbike Series

Parts Canada announced today that it will not be renewing sponsorship for 2012 with CSBK for the Canadian Superbike Championship.

Parts Canada has proudly supported the Canadian National road racing series as title sponsor since 1990. Even through the economic downturn and with other series partners finding it necessary to cut back (or disengage completely), Parts Canada continued to support the series as its title sponsor, and has provided support in many other ways including team support, and rider support, both amateur and professional.

After a successful 2011 season with new ownership and the new title of CSBK Parts Canada, Parts Canada was excited to be discussing the program for 2012. Having fulfilled all of its obligations for the 2011 season and looking forward to 2012, Parts Canada was forced to re-evaluate its investment in the series. In part, this decision is as a result of recent public events related to the series organizer, with which Parts Canada does not want to be associated. Parts Canada intends to stand firm in its corporate beliefs and as a result must pull away from the current series.

James Danyluk, President of Parts Canada adds, “This is not an easy decision for us, as we are proud of our racing heritage. Parts Canada has and will continue to be one of the preeminent sponsors of motorcycle racing in Canada, be it road racing, motorcross, drag racing or any other type. Parts Canada respects all of the supporters, riders, team owners, technicians and fans, and does not wish to be associated with or condone conduct that is not consistent with this philosophy. We support the sport, and will continue our efforts to promote motorcycling in Canada. We are looking forward to a fresh beginning.”

Dovizioso to Tech3 Yamaha in 2012

Recent news that Colin Edwards would be leaving Monster Yamaha Tech3 MotoGP squad for a spot on the Forward Racing Claiming Rule Team (CRT), opened the door for a seat next to Cal Crutchlow on the satellite Yamaha MotoGP squad in 2012. Enter Italian Andrea Dovizioso. The current Respol Honda rider will move to the Yamaha Tech 3 team for 2012, joining Cal Crutchlow.

Dovizioso, who was 125cc World Champion in 2004 and twice runner-up in the 250cc class, is excited with the new opportunity, "I'm happy to have reached this agreement with Tech 3 for next year and I want to thank Hervé Poncharal for the opportunity he is giving me. I am excited to become part of Hervé's squad and to be teamed with Cal. I am sure this new challenge will be exciting, motivating and fun. Now that 2012 is sorted I want to focus on finishing the season in the best possible way."

The 25-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the French-based Tech 3 Team having proven to be one of the fastest and most consistent performers on the grid since his MotoGP debut in 2008. Five podium finishes, including four second places in 2011, have put Dovizioso in a fantastic third place in the World Championship standings with just three races remaining.

Damian Cudlin to Replace Injured Barbera at Phillip Island

Mapfre Aspar's Hector Barbera suffered a broken clavicle at the Motegi GP, and while the Spanish rider underwent successful surgery, he will not be fit to race the next MotoGP round at Phillip Island next week. In his place, Australian Damian Cudlin will race the Mapfre Aspar machinery.

This will be Cudlin's second appearance in MotoGP, as the twenty-eight-year old replaced an injured Loris Capirossi only weeks early at the Motegi MotoGP. According to Cudlin, "“To get the call up the first time to replace Loris was a big enough shock, but to get another start in MotoGP for another team at the very next race is just unbelievable to me.” Cudlin explained. “You wait your whole life to get a shot at MotoGP and then suddenly two come along at once. If I’m dreaming, don’t wake me up!”

Cudlin will ride a Ducati Desmosedici for the Mapfre Aspar Team at his home Grand Prix at Phillip Island next weekend, October 14-16, 2011.

New ZX-14 to be unleashed on Monday

MV Agusta F3 Serie Oro coming to Canada

Inside Motorcycles has just received word that MV Agusta's limited edition F3 Serie Oro will be coming to Canada in July 2012 via Canadian distributor Motovan.

The Serie Oro version of the F3 appeals to collectors and enthusiasts of Italian engineering excellence; a maximum of 200 will be built, with a Canadian price tag of $28,995. Several aesthetic and engineering upgrades have been made from the base F3, making this unique model a real keeper.

More info is expected on the MV Agusta Canada website shortly.

Ducati announces 2012 Multistrada and Hypermotard

With the new 1199 Panigale Superbike set to debut at the EICMA show in a month, Ducati preceded that intro with the announcement of the Multistrada and Hypermotard models for 2012.

The award-winning Multistrada family is Ducati's top-selling motorcycle, featuring the Multistrada 1200, 1200 S Sport Pikes Peak Special Edition and 1200 S Touring. In addition to standard red and arctic white color schemes, the 1200 S Touring model will also be offered in a brand new race titanium matte colour scheme with a racing black frame in December (pictured above). All 2012 models will have a revised, comfort-enhanced rider’s seat with an increased front and rear length.

The 2012 Hypermotard 1100EVO SP is now available as a Corse Edition and will feature high ground clearance, high spec suspension, new seat aesthetics and high bars to make it track ready. the 1100EVO SP Corse Edition comes in full red, white and black Ducati Corse official colors and is available immediately.

Ben Young to test Moto3 Machine at Indiana

from Fogi Racing Development Team

Fogi Development rider Ben Young has been invited to test / race the prototype Yamaha powered Gptech Moto3 Grand Prix machine at Putnam Park, Indiana at the USGPRU season finale 7th – 9th Oct.

The Moto3 machine is the brain child of Geoff Maloney owner of Gptech LLC. Gptech in striving to assist the growth of the domestic GP motorcycling racing industry while providing an easier, more affordable way to do it. It will be an affordable, competitive GP race bike to develop young racers skills. The Yamaha WR250 powered bike will be going into production this coming winter.

Fogi Racing team manager Scott Young was asked about Young’s opportunity in testing / racing the Moto3, “This is great for Ben. We know Geoff from working closely with Angus Borland, team owner with the FTR Moto2 bike in MotoGP. It was fantastic Ben testing the FTR Moto2 bike last weekend and now with him being invited to test the prototype Moto3 bike is finishing off our season on a huge high. I would like to thank Geoff Maloney and Gptech for their support to Ben and Fogi Racing."

Nesbitt Plans Perfect Step with CBR250R Cup in 2012

Stacey Nesbitt is getting used to the added media attention after having become arguably the first female in road racing history to win a mixed gender National Championship title. With Honda Canada's recent announcement to hold a National CBR25oR Cup in 2012, the current CBR 125 Cup champion is ready and willing to carry the Number One plate into the 2012 season.

Honda Canada's Kim Moore has already told Stacey she can sport the Number One plate in the 2012 CBR250R Cup, "Kim's already told us we can put the Number One plate on my bike next year," said Nesbitt, "but I am also still going to keep my number 316 and find room for it on there as well."

Stacey caught up with us at Inside Motorcycles to talk about her plans for 2012 and what she thinks of Honda's recent announcement to host a National CBR25oR Cup next year. "It's really the perfect step," she explained, "I think it's easier to go from a CBR125 to a CBR250 than it is to jump all the way to the 600 (sportbike)."

Honda Canada invited Stacey and fellow Honda competitor and former CBR125 ace Bodhi Edie to test the CBR250R at a media event at St. Eustache recently. The experience was certainly worthwhile and has left no doubt that Stacey plans to compete in the CBR250R Cup in 2012. According to Nesbitt, "The bike was a lot of fun. It's bigger, its got great acceleration, it really is the perfect step."

While Honda Canada is still finalizing the details of the 2012 CBR250 Cup, it is expected that the series will run as part of the Canadian Superbike Series and that the CBR125 Cup will move to regional level events. A race kit will be available for purchase for the CBR250R and while Honda continues to work out the details, they have been considering input from the Nesbitt's and other 125 Cup riders as well.

When asked about her winter plans to prepare for the upcoming 2012 season, Stacey already had a number of goals in mind. She mentioned that the Canadian Superbike Series intends to send the championship winner to the Kevin Schwantz School in Alabama, "but that likely won't happen until Spring, likely March break", said Stacey. So in the meantime, her and her dad, Grant, have been keeping their eyes peeled for a dirt bike that she can ride at an indoor track or on the ice this winter. When asked about any other riding schools or opportunities south of the border, the fourteen-year-old noted, "We're going to focus on the Canadian CBR250R Cup for 2012, so we haven't thought about schools in the U.S. much, but we also wouldn't say no right away either."

The Nesbitt's are currently working on a support package for Stacey for her 2012 racing program. In the meantime, Stacey herself won't be expected to start contributing to her own racing budget just yet, as her parents encourage her to spend her time focussing on attaining good grades in school. "Maybe in November once we see how my grades are," explained Stacey, "but for now I want to get good grades too." Nesbitt seems just fine with her parent's plan for her to focus on school, having returned home a little early the day of our interview as she "drove herself home on the scooter" (in Quebec, riders can apply for a scooter license at age 14).

When asked about her favourite riders on the world cup level, Nesbitt responded without hesitation that Honda's Marco Simoncelli and Yamaha Factory rider Jorge Lorenzo were her favourite MotoGP riders. "Everyone says that Simoncelli is so aggressive," Stacey advised, "but really he's just an old school racer. It's going to be a little aggressive, that's part of racing." Perhaps more importantly, Stacey also pointed out that she likes Simoncelli's personality. She realizes the importance of being available to talk to fans and supporters and appreciates that Simoncelli (as well as many other world cup level riders) are available to talk to fans. "Why wouldn't you?" she offered, "I'd want to thank them any way I could."

Sounds like Stacey's on the right track to defending her number one plate in 2012, and that she'll be a road racing force to be reckoned with for years to come. Watch for her in the 2012 CBR250R Cup in Canada next season.

Stacey Nesbitt right at home on the CBR125R; moving up to the CBR250R class in 2012

Photo courtesy of Neil Cameron

MV Unveils F4 R Corsa Corta

MV Augusta announced the launch of the F4 R Corsa Corta on October 6 from their headquarters in Varese, Italy.

According to the manufacturer, the big news here is the homologated 195-hp Corsa Corta engine which until now was only featured on the F4 RR, MV Augusta's top Superbike. The engine capacity of 998cc was met by using a bore of 79 mm and a stroke of only 50.9 mm. Peak power comes at 13,000 rpm. Every component in the F4 R's Corsa Corta engine was thoroughly engineered and designed with the intent to minimize internal friction.

Highlights include 100% titanium valves (the first time ever on a production motorcycle), a new primary gear ratio (allowing a drastic reduction in rpm of both generator and water pump, thereby limiting the absorbed power) and a removable 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch which according to MV Augusta "assures precise control even during the most violent braking manoeuvres."

The electronic management system has been endlessly enhanced, the traction control has been improved thanks to a new algorithm and also maintains the two rider selectable engine maps, all of which are now comfortably adjustable by means of the new control situated on the left handlebar.

The manufacturer is pleased with the upgraded 4-2-1-4 primary section of the exhaust system, which not only allows the engine to breathe more efficiently but also produces a very distinct rumble.

The F4 R remains faithful to the brand's structural tradition of mixing a steel tubular trellis to cast aluminium side-plates. MV Augusta considers the exceptional rear single-sided swingarm, a 'real engineering jewel' that weighs a scant 5 kg, believed to be the lightest of its kind in history.

Suspension goodies include competition-derived front forks and a front axle carrier that uses a rapid release system for the wheel, reminiscent of the first F4, the legendary Serie Oro. A fully adjustable Sachs shock absorber out back is equipped with a nitrogen reservoir (separated and integrated within the body). Shock linkage allows ride height to be adjusted.

Stopping power comes from Brembo Monobloc brakes up front and an exclusive MV rear braking system in the rear.

The new F4 R, already on sale at official dealers, is available in 2 colours: red/grey and white/medium grey, at a price of 18.800 € (approx. $26,000 CDN) including tax in Italy (though every country could have a price variation due to local import duties and taxes).

Yamaha Motor Canada Transferred to Yamaha USA; Organizational Structure Unchanged

Yamaha Motor Canada will see all of its shares transferred to the U.S. subsidiary, Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A., according to a recent announcement on Yamaha's corporate website. The share transfer is expected to create a more efficient regional management structure, under which Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. will assume responsibility for all North American territories.

"The transfer, expected to be completed by December 31, 2011, will see Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. assume additional responsibilities for financial reporting and audit," according to a press release issued today by Yamaha Motor Canada (YMCA) Ltd. The statement from Yamaha Canada went on to assure us that "the investment arrangement will not impact YMCA's organizational structure. YMCA will maintain all of its current, independent responsibilities to serve the Canadian dealers and customers."

The change is reportedly part of an ongoing business reform process for Yamaha Motor Corporation to simplify reporting for North American business. Yamaha is not the first company to run their Canadian operations from the United States. Both Ducati and Triumph also run their Canadian operations south of the border. While Yamaha Canada will maintain it's organizational structure, implications to consumers, if any, remain to be seen.

YMCA joins nine other subsidiaries, including Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America, Skeeter Products Inc. and Tennessee Water Craft Inc., under the Yamaha Motor U.S.A. ownership portfolio.

Pro Street record smashed

It seems like forever since Brock Davidson wheeled his nitrous-fed Suzuki Bandit to the first seven-second streetbike lap in the world. In fact, that lap was made 10 years ago and in the years since, the Pro Street class (formerly Streetbike Shootout) has been dominated, for the most part, by turbocharged motorcycles with little more than a peep from the nitrous contingent.

Things have come full circle however as Ryan Schnitz (Decatur, IN) piloted the nitrous-injected, Cecil Towner-tuned HTP Performance Suzuki Hayabusa to the first six-second pass by a Pro Street motorcycle, clocking in at 6.907-seconds (quarter-mile) at 203.06mph. The run was made during the MIROCK Fast By Gast Fall Nationals at Maryland International Raceway this past weekend.

Pro Street bikes are highly modified production motorcycles running D.O.T. rubber and no wheelie bars. However, nitrous bikes in the class are allowed to run centrifugal 'slider' clutches and auto transmissions.

Schnitz was unable to back up the number within 1% for an official series record, but will forever have the distinction of being the first 'streetbike' racer to post a six-second elapsed time.

You can watch a video of the run at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4s_7F3SI_l8

Canadian Racing Pioneer Harold Cole Honoured

Toronto, ON - October 3rd, 2011: From his first days as a teenager on the Exhibition Oval in Toronto, Harold Cole was known as a feisty, exciting rider-called the greatest living motorcycle racer in Canada in his heyday- and a self-made track expert who presided over the front rank of motorcycle stars. On Saturday, November 5th, Harold Cole will be honoured as an Historical Inductee at the Sixth Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Reunion at the Delta Meadowvale Resort and Conference Centre in Mississauga, Ontario.

Born in Toronto in 1895, Harold Cole became the owner of his first motorcycle-a 4hp Yale- on June 1, 1910, at age fifteen. After his first spin around the old Exhibition oval that same day, Cole and the track became inseparable.

Racing stole his heart at an early age, and Cole attempted to enter competitions at the dangerous quarter-mile track at Scarborough Beach and Exhibition Place during the summer and autumn of 1910. The Toronto Motorcycle Club advised him he was too young, however-so in the meantime, Cole took his Yale on a solo trip to Buffalo, NY.

The next summer Cole finally had the opportunity to shine in a three-mile race on the Waterloo quarter-mile dirt track on July 1, 1911. He won his heat and the final, with an average time of 1:20/mile. That same week, Cole won his first event on his home track at Exhibition and set a new record for Eastern Canada-twice in one day.

After those first heady days on the track, Cole went on to a distinguished career as a motorcycle racer, setting records for distance in both dirt track and motordrome races. He was Dominion Champion and took home the Commeford Cup three times before his death in Toronto in the mid 1950s.

Harold Cole, a pioneer of Canadian motorcycle racing, will be made a historical inductee into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame on November 5th.

To order tickets for the Sixth Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet & Reunion, please visit www.hofbanquet.eventbrite.com.

Kruger in China: End of Season ReCap

from Dan Kruger

Riding the 2011 ZX-10 fully race prepped, Canadian Dan Kruger topped the qualifying in Q1 with a 1:39.9. Kruger had been testing the new bike all week and was quite happy with the setup. Saturday Morning kruger missed out on pole as the local favourite YES Yamaha China Rider put in a blistering 1:38.4 on a Japan Yamaha factory prepared R1. The best Kruger could do was a 1:39.3 (His best time ever at this race track).

Race 1 saw everyone get off with a clean start and Kruger simply could not hang with the Yamaha rider after 3 laps. He gradually fell back but at the same time pulled steadily away from the rest of the 22 riders. With less than 2 laps to go heading into turn one at about 265km per hour, Kruger was the 2nd of 5 to fall victim to oil on the track. The first being the Japanese rider that was dropping oil. Sliding over 200 feet on pavement before hitting the rumble strip and sliding another 80 feet, Kruger’s lowside damaged his bike badly, destroyed his new leathers and badly injuring his right hand/fingers/knuckles. 3 other riders crashed into the same corner and they immediately red flagged the race. Final positions were calculated from a lap earlier and Kruger still got 2nd putting him 3rd overall in the Championship.

Race 2 was not so easy… With broken bones in his hand, Kruger was sceptical of even finishing a lap. With the full grandstands behind his every move, he managed to hold of the 2nd factory YES Yamaha Rider and nab another 2nd place. “It was a really tough race and my hand kept sliding off the throttle body. It was definitely not a smooth race or very much fun but I knew I had a lot to prove with the new bike and a lot of support in the paddock and in the grandstands. The new Kawasaki ZX-10 is amazing and we barely had time to fit it with any factory parts. 2012 will be a very good year for us, that is for sure!”

The two 2nd place finishes gave Kruger the 3rd overall in the Elite Superbike Class 1 Championship results. The end of season banquet was held that night and Kruger proudly took 3rd overall with his broken hand in tow.

"We are leading the Chengdu Superbike Championship at the moment with 1 event left in November. Things are looking good there and I plan to ride a consistent race and take that inaugural #1 plate for 2011. We also have been confirmed to ride the prestigious 8 hour Endurance race at Phillips Island in Australia Dec 2-4 and then straight to China for an end of season 2 hour Endurance event at Zhuhai Dec.

Future Motorcycle Concept

Future Motorcycle Concept

Future V-Twin Motorcycle

Future V-Twin Motorcycle

McCormick Settles In at Magny-Cours

Despite struggling with tires and suspension set up early on this weekend, Canadian Superbike Champion Brett McCormick demonstrated he's more than capable of competing amongst a tough European field in the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup.

Riding for the Garnier Alpha Racing Team at Magny-Cours, France this past weekend aboard a BMW S1000 RR, McCormick came from a 19th place start to finish 13th in a field of 28 riders. McCormick's fastest lap was a time of 1:42:903, less than 2 seconds off the pace of the race winner Danilo Petrucci (1:41:453).

The twenty-year-old McCormick now heads to Portimao, Portugal to compete in the next round of the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup on October 16, 2011.

Full race results from Magny-Cours can be found online at www.wsbk.com

Future Motorcycle

future motorcycle