Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

[mika]

Thursday, 7 February


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

cyclenews.com: World Superbike Fantasy Game

MotoGP

webbikeworld.com: 2013 MotoGP Schedule

fim-live.com: MotoGP grid bunches up as Pedrosa leads Sepang day 2

hondaproracing.com: Repsol team continues progress in Malaysia

[urlhttp://www.yamaha-motor.eu/eu/news/index.aspx?id=525472]yamaha-motor.eu[/url]: The pace steps up on day 2

autosport.com: Hayden admits Ducati has lost ground in first MotoGP tests

motogp.com: Esparg?? remains CRT rider to beat

motomatters.com: Press release round up day 2

gpone.com translation: Dorna ÔÇô Suzuki welcome in MotoGP

motomatters.com: Suzuki top brass visit Sepang ÔÇô Will they return or won't they make a return?

Formula One

formula1.com: Jerez day 2 ÔÇô Grosjean puts Lotus on top

nbcsports.com: Hamilton crashes in first tests

ferrari.com: Second day of testing at Jerez

mclaren.com: Jerez day 2

autosport.com: Red Bull in better shape than last winter, says Webber

jamesallenonf1.com: A closer look at the back of the grid.

Other Racing

MC

yamaha-racing.com: the Yamaha Classic Racing Team prepares for its final season

supercross.com: Supercross Ryan Villopoto Champion to air on CBS this Sunday

marathonrally.com: Sealine Qatar QMMF announces revised format for Sealine Rally in Qatar

On the Street

Recall: Transport Canada / BMW [2013] R1200GS

Transport Canada: BMW issued recall on R1200GS [2013]

On certain motorcycles, transmission oil pressure may be too high, causing the output shaft sealing ring to leak. Oil leakage ahead of the rear tire could render the vehicle unstable. This could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install an oil restrictor to reduce oil pressure at the transmssion output.

motorcyclenews.com: Is the new Husqvarna owner wrong to dump the street models?

motorsportsnewswire.com: ÔÇ£Leasing gets more bikes on the road and that makes everybody happyÔÇØ
FWIW ÔÇô I remain skeptical

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Fast motorcycle industry news

motorcyclenews.com: Does the CB1000 tic the boxes

ridermagazine.co.uk: Beat fuel prices ÔÇô 8 top tips for saving money

visordwon.com: Dealing with theft ÔÇô five tips for beginners



VIDEO: MotorTrend ÔÇô City bike shoot out BMW C600 Sport vs Honda NC700X vs Kawasaki Versys

asphaltandrubber.com: Orang County Choppers merchandise is in bankruptcy

ultimatemotorcycling.com: 2013 Honda CB500X quick look

visordown.com: Road test/First Rides ÔÇô KTM 1190 Adventure review


The MotherShip PressClub

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo adds an innovative new concept to the successful BMW 3 Series line-up. The third body variant in the current model family combines the SedanÔÇÖs dynamic, sporting genes with the practicality and versatility of the Touring, qualities which are backed up by a palpable increase in space and driving comfort. The Gran Turismo exudes aesthetic and emotional appeal, boasts a distinctive presence on the road and offers similarly pronounced driving pleasure. All of which allows the new Gran Turismo to make a compelling case for itself as both an elegant business carriage and a dynamic, comfortable tourer. ..More

This yearÔÇÖs Geneva International Motor Show sees BMW showcasing a compelling line-up of new production models while also turning the spotlight on some groundbreaking premium compact concepts featuring forward-looking design as well as boasting outstanding sustainability credentials. Lending added highlights to the show stand are a range of innovative driver assistance systems from BMW ConnectedDrive. ..More

Munich. For three generations and over 50 years, the Cooper name has identified a MINI offering even more in the way of driving fun. The idea, hatched by brilliant Formula One designer John Cooper, to fuel the agile small car with an extra hit of performance and turn it into a sporting machine for the road and track has lost none of its appeal. But the Cooper has never been about horsepower, as a comparison between the classic Mini and its two successors resoundingly proves. The key here is the basic principle of the creative use of space, combined with the inimitable go-kart feeling that runs like a thread through the three generations of the legendary small car. These famous handling traits are enjoyed by drivers on bendy country roads and city streets around the world, with the classic Mini and 21st-century MINI still regularly crossing each otherÔÇÖs path. ..More

2012 was a record year for Rolls-Royce. Part of BMW Group for the last 10 years, the brand continues to grow in Germany. ..More

Reference Library

Bike Candy

1936 BMW R5 SS ridden by Alfred Schrantz and Claus Clausen during Friday practice for the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy at the 2012 Goodwood Revival.

[mika]

Friday, 8 February


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

VIDEO: Aprilia Racing ÔÇô Offical [teaser]

ducati.com: Team SBK Ducati Alstare presents the new livery of the 1199 Panigale R ad its sponsors for the 2013 season
ducati.com: FIAMM Spa to be official sponsor of the team


MotoGP

ducati.com: Ducati Team's 2013 season starts with first official test at Sepang

motogp.com: Difficult start for Ducati in Malaysia

autosport.com: Ducati riders say major changes required

hondaproracing.com: Pedrosa still on top as tests come to an end

yamaha-racing.com: Successful Sepang test for Yamaha dream team

motomatters.com: MotoGP Sepang test press release roundup

superbikeplanet.com: What's next for Ducati

Sepang Photo Compilations
Video Ducati
Vidoe Respsol Honda
Video Yamaha Racing

Formula One

formula1.com: Jerez day three ÔÇô Massa fastest for Ferrari

reuters.com: Vettel sees Fromula 1 title race wide open

formula1.com: Q&A with Sergio Perez on McLaren debut

formula1.com: Interview with Lotus Eric Boullier

autosport.com: Pirelli says Jerez to rough for F1 testing

Other Racing

MC
asphaltandruber.com: HRC boss reveals details of Honda's production racer



Cage and...

MINI Motorsport: Michal Kościuszko and Jarkko Nikara are flying the flag for MINI at the icy 2013 Rally Sweden, while a rally great was on hand to offer advice to Michal during his preparations.

On the Street

visordown.com: Used buyers guide ÔÇô BMW R1200GS

visordown.com: Whither now, Husqvarna?

Reacall : NHTSA Recall ID No. 13V3032000
Dated: JAN 25, 2013 Triumph Motorcycles (Triumph) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Daytona 675 and Street Triple motorcycles and 2012 Thunderbird and Thunderbird Storm motorcycles. The wheels were assembled wit...

motorcyclistonline.com: Triumph Tiger Explorer

motorcyclenews.com: ?ú1.2 million 'Think Bike' campaign

autobloggreen.com: Broad coalition working against ethanol says it is worse than tar sands






The MotherShip PressClub



My name is Herbert. I'm 50 years old and live in Bavaria, Germany. I have been selected to ride the new R 1200 GS on the South Island of New Zealand for 8 days, and it is difficult for me to explain the joy and pride being here right now brings me.

When I arrived in Christchurch yesterday, I was welcomed by the T3 team and Frank from the BMW Motorrad team who wished me all the best for my ride over the island at the end of the world. ...

Read the whole story with plenty of video and photo footage of the tour at*http://bmw-motorrad.com/gs



BMW is ÔÇ£rockingÔÇØ the slopes this winter with an exceptional ski design. Agility, manoeuvrability and smartness ÔÇô these are the qualities of the red fox that elegantly extends as a central motif over the entire length of the rocker ski. The sporty sliders were designed by DesignworksUSA, a BMW Group subsidiary, in collaboration with the ski and sports equipment supplier K2. ..More

FWIW

Chemist Lee Cronin is working on a 3D printer that, instead of objects, is able to print molecules. An exciting potential long-term application: printing your own medicine using chemical inks. VIDEO

Here all I was hoping for was a portable 3D printer to take along and print out replacement parts for the Roadster. Apparently small thinking on my part.

Reference Library

Bike Candy

[mika]

Saturday, 9 February


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

philipislandcicuit.com.au: World SBK and World Supersport grids confirmed

speedweek.de Translate ÔÇô Jonathan Rea ÔÇ£No long term plan for move to MotoGPÔÇØ

speedweek.de translated ÔÇô Leon Haslam ÔÇ£I can win at HondaÔÇØ
FWIW: I have no doubt. He should have won at BMW and would have this year.

MotoGP

twowheelsblog.com: Yamaha to join Honda in COTA test

honda.com: HRC Repsol remains on top as the tests at Sepang test come to an end





Formula One

formula1.com: Jerez day 4 ÔÇô Raikkonen assures Lotus finishes on top
lotusf1team.com: Raikkonen please with early performance

ferrair.com: A lot of precious data from Jerez

mclaren.com: Jerez day four

jamesallenonf1.com: Jerez day 4 ÔÇô Kimi edges out hard charging Bianchi

Colin Chapman Team Lotus 1968

This video is a documentary that gives a rare insight of Colin Chapman and Team Lotus in 1968, The year when Chapman and team were struggling with the loss of Jim Clark at Hockenheim and Mike Spence at Indianapolis. Graham Hill took over as lead driver and won the Championship



Other Racing

MC

supercross.com: Preview of the San Diego Supercross 2013

speedbrian.de: Recent news from the husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain

fim-live.com: Husaberg heads to Barcelona for FIM Super Enduro World Championship round two

VIDEO: Best falls of 2013 Dakar



Cage and...

nytimes.com: BMW designers bring their approach to Olympic bobsled

1963 Road America SCCA USRRC race

Footage from the September 8, 1963 Road America SCCA US Road Racing Championship race in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Augie Pabst and Bill Wuesthoff in an Elva Mk.7 Porsche first, Bob Holbert and Ken Miles in a Shelby Cobra 289 second, and Don Sesslar and Chuck Cassel in a Porsche 718 RS60 third. 125 laps on 4 mile road course; 500 miles.
Three parts:







On the Street

cycleworld.com: California Highway Patrol releases endorsed lane splitting guidelines

cycleworld.com: Wunderlich BMW protective pads



cyrilhuzeblog.com: The Musket 998 V Twin Bike unveiled

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Study ÔÇô Global demand for motorcycles to rise 7.2% annually through 2016

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Destination ÔÇô Blue Ridge Mountains motorcycle travel

asphaltandrubber.com: 2014 Honda CTX700 and CTX700N coming soon
Can Big the Big Red Wing nurture a class of bikes into existence?
HFL: Honda CTX700 ÔÇô a new addition to the Honda family



canadamotoguide.com: Yamaha T Max ÔÇô Test ride

webbikeworld.com: Arai Defiant helmet review

twowheelsblog.com: Max Biaggi's tax evasion case thrown out

The MotherShip PressClub





Transport Canada Recall # 2013047 and BMW are recalling the X5
On certain vehicles, a check valve in the brake vacuum pump may leak a small amount of lubricating oil. Over time, this could result in contamination of the brake booster. Loss of brake power assist could occur... ..More

For 10 days from 7 to 7 February, the whole of the film industry will arrive in GermanyÔÇÖs capital for its annual International Film Festival. Known as the ÔÇÿBerlinaleÔÇÖ, it is the largest and the most exciting cultural event of the year, attracting thousands of film professionals and film lovers to the city. As one of the principal partners of the 63rd Berlin International Film Festival, BMW will ... ..More

With 90 years of production to its name, BMW Motorrad is rightfully proud of the fact it is one of the longest surviving motorcycle manufacturers. It is also proud to be associated in commemorating one of the greatest stories of man and his machine: the first round the world trip by motorcycle ..More

Munich /Los Angeles. The worldÔÇÖs most celebrated art fair for works created in the photographic medium, Paris Photo, will take place at Paramount Pictures Studios from April 26 to 28, 2013. At the inaugural fair in Los Angeles, BMW and Paris Photo celebrate the tenth anniversary of their partnership. In addition to providing the VIP shuttle service, BMW will present the M1 BMW Art Car by Andy Warhol, created by the Pop artist in 1979. Originally raced in Le Mans, Warhol in his own words meant to ÔÇ£give a vivid depiction of speed. If a car is really fast, all contours and colors will become blurredÔÇØ. ..More

Total of 123,276 automobiles sold in first month, an increase of 9.9% +++ Robertson: Further growth expected in 2013 in worldwide sales  BMW Motorrad deliveries reached a total of 4,818 (5,237/-8.0%) vehicles. Husqvarna Motorcycles supplied a total of 587 vehicles (544/+7.9%) to the Husqvarna dealer network in January. ..More

MINI Motorsport
Title number four at the Troph?®e Andros ice racing series for Jean-Philippe Dayraut. Behind the wheel of a MINI, the Frenchman dominated this seasonÔÇÖs competition.
..More

Cage World





FWIW



http://www.oilandpiston.com/ Scott Conary ÔÇô The Motorcycle : OIL & PISTON

Motorcycles. The noisy irrational things got under my skin a long time ago, about as long ago as when I first picked up a paint brush. Others have written better than I can about the experience ÔÇô the sound, the speed, the elements barely kept at bay, the raw experience and joy. Suffice it to say that I am obsessed with them. As tool, as machine, as sculpture, as a reflection of experience. Motorcycles.
So IÔÇÖm painting them. ItÔÇÖs the natural fit, art and motorcycle, the thing everyone else expected and I didnÔÇÖt. These first bikes are old bikes. Bikes with stories, with character and flaws. They carry a history and promise of their own.
For more about my painting in general, visit my other site (scottconary.com) where you can see lamb chops, landscapes, and most everything else.
Inspired by our daughter, Jane, and her difficult journey, a portion of all sales are going to*Mended Little Hearts. The beginning of that story can be found*here on my blog.
I hope you enjoy the paintings. TheyÔÇÖve been a revelation for me. Buy a print. Tell the world. This is just the beginning.


Edi Rama ÔÇô Take back your city with paint
Make a city beautiful, curb corruption. Edi Rama took this deceptively simple path as mayor of Tirana, Albania, where he instilled pride in his citizens by transforming public spaces with colorful designs. With projects that put the people first, Rama decreased crime -- and showed his citizens they could have faith in their leaders. (Filmed at TEDxThessaloniki.) TED Talks





Reference Library

Bike Candy

www.r1goesextreme.com

[mika]

Monday, 11 February


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK



bikesportnews.com: WSBK championship is th intention says Laverty

twowheelsblog.com: Sylvain Guintoli ÔÇ£I'm like wine I get better with timeÔÇØ
BMW Italia riders can only hope this is French hubris and not fact.

speedweek.de translated ÔÇô Aprilia is committed to World Superbike

VIDEO: Interview with Aprilia's Luggi Dall'Igna
Aprilia Racing Team tests at the Spanish circuit of Jerez de la Frontera, the last ones before the 2013 World Superbike Championship season

MotoGP

towwheelblog.com: BRG for PBM's CRT bikes

bikesportnews.com: Honda's MotoGP proddie racer delayed until Valencia

Formula One

formula1.com: Q&A with Mercede's Lewis Hamilton

redbull.com: Vettel ÔÇô Reliability the key to a successful first test

reuters.com: Byrne lending hand with Ferrari's 2014 car
-and more-
jamesallenonf1.com: Ferrari goes back to the future ÔÇô rory Bryne to work on 2014 turbo F1 car

Classic Motor Sports History! In this Full Length documentary the Heart of the Formula One cars is discussed in detail! The Birth of the Turbo engines: Inline 4, V6 Turbo, etc
VIDEO:

Other Racing

MC

supercross.com: round 6 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series 2013 San Diego

fim-live.com: Milsaps dominates in San Diego

ktm.com: Roczen 2nd at San Diego Supercross

ktm.com: Dungey earns third at San Diego Supercross.

SupercrossLive's YouTube Channel

Cage and...

WRC ÔÇô Rally Sweden VIDEOs
Preview
Stages 1-3
Stages 4-7
Stages 8-11
Stages 12-16
Stages 17-19
Stages 20-22

reuters.com: Rally Sweden results

VIDEO: America's Cup ÔÇô Capsizes and saftety training

On the Street

thekneeslider.com: Polaris patent reveals a side by side three wheeler

roadracingworld.com: Ducati to be honored motorcycle marque at Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance March 8-10, in Florida

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Powertrain alignment tool for [H-D] touring models

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Jesse James is relaunching West Coast Choppers

webbikeworld.com: BMW functional socks - reviewed

The MotherShip PressClub





Bad luck for Franz Engstler in Bathurst ÔÇô Birthday boy Joey Hand looks forward to the presentation of the BMW Z4 GTE. ..More

Cage World



8negro.com: 1959 BMW Issetta





autoblog.com: Bristol hybrid supercar waiting in the wings

Reference Library

Bike Candy

[mika]

This thread takes you on a quixotic internet trip through things that interest me. I thought I would take the major headings and give you some idea of the themes that interest me as we head off into another racing and motorcycling season.

Themes: World Superbike

Taking the marques in the order they finished the 2012 Manufacture Championship hunt, let's look at the some of the themes to follow in 2013 World SBK.

APRILIA ÔÇô Chassis

Aprilia and Max Biaggi took took a second set of titles together in 2012K title in 2012. Biaggi's anticipated retirement would have stick and ball sports writers banging out articles about rebuilding seasons to come. However, Biaggi's exit may mark the end of an era and the beginning of the second phase of a Aprilia dynasty. The key theme here is chassis development.

Aprilia's RSV4 was the power king when it made its appearance in the WSBK paddock. An ongoing horsepower war with BMW was avoided by clearer heads but power remained the core of the Aprilia in the Biaggi era. In crude terms Biaggi's riding style was POWER ON ÔÇô brake HARD ÔÇô survive the twisty bits ÔÇô POWER ON as quickly as possible and repeat. Biaggi scored big on tracks that featured speed. Laverty carried the water scoring points on technical tracks and demonstrated his ability to read a pit board by becoming a easy pass for Biaggi in his race for the titles. Clearly Biaggi 'survived' the twisty bits with more skill than I will ever have but you get my point.

Power will remain an important part of the Aprilia development process. Dall'Inga's interview was candid. The paddock and development crews remain constant. Their focus is chassis and ECU development. Laverty and Guintoli have creds to do the on track work to keep this a continuing dynasty rather than one that retrenches to rebuild.

BMW ÔÇô Judgement and execution.

FWIW in my book 2012 is the Manufacture Championship that got away. The 2012 release of the S1000RRv2 caught the press and fans by surprise. I may have wondered in print when it was coming but did not expect it until this season. The .v2 made a historic splash on the track. The silly season delivered another surprise with the announcement of a realignment for BMW Motorrad Motorsport's WSBK effort for 2013. The first of many BMW realignment announcements it seems. While all of this was going on BMW briefly took the championship lead only to see the top step of the podium slip away.

Realignment is the word that keeps appearing in BMW press releases and headlines of motorcycle press. This is appropriate for a variety of reasons yet for me it's a theme of judgment and execution throughout the organization.

Headquarters
The judgement of changes at the various corporate level of BMW's SBK effort will keep fans and pundits busy all season.
BMW will field one factory team with the BMW Italia Goldbet livery dropping of BMW Motorrad Motorsport Team. This should be looked at as a continuation of how BMW does back of the house business. National level racing is managed by the the national business arms. BMW France is responsible for Endurance World Championship racing and support of SBK racing in France and Italy. Husqvarna, prior to its sale, was responsible for racing in the dirt. The WSBK shift is consistent and redefines several roles.
Development of the S1000RRv1 and the 2012 v2 was managed at the team level; at least in theory. 2013 development will be split between Munich taking over engine development and the team taking chassis development. This division of labor is not uncommon up and down the WSBK paddock. IF they pull this off it should be a boon to road racing engine development for the entire marque efforts.
Engine development occupies the old BMW development and BMW F1 facilities in Munich. Thiey responsible for engine nuts and bolts development, electrical systems (hardware) and electronics (software). This separates a major chunk of the development group from the racing team and is most obvious potential down side to the strategy. The upside is the centralized department should be better situated to serve all of the road racing efforts and learn from them at the same time; thus resulting in a better product to put on the track.

BMW Italia
The Italians will run the track operations including riders, crews, logistics/etc and chassis development. The result is a hybrid of resources from the 2012 teams and some new elements. In reverse order:
Chassis development was subcontracted by both BMW teams in 2012. Alfa Racing was tapped by BMW when they first returned to endurance road racing with the HP2 Sport continuing with the German team through 2012. BMW Italia found Feel Racing to work with when they entered WSS and then made the move to SBK. The 2013 team will work with Feel Racing. The soundness of that judgement and what, if any, relationship BMW continues to have with Alpha Racing is unknown.
BMW Italia has been developing its logistical/etc racing support skills for several years now. This is really boring stuff to press and fans yet it covers things that are critical to the life and well being of a team. Look back at the stories of midfield teams from previous seasons and you will find all sorts of stories of logistics getting in the way of teams with potential. For example, Liberty Racings, stellar on track, had problems in 2012 with money and logistics.
Crews are an unknown for me. I don't have the granular information to tell who stayed and who left. Based on past seasons, a good deal of cherry picking was done to put together the 2013 crew. In 2011 the German and Italian began the season with a different kit and starting orders that over the season ended up with the final definition of the v2. Troy Corser was very frustrated that people he saw as key electrical and electronic crew members were assigned from the German team to the Italian. We may not know who they selected buy we will be able to make judgements on the work of the crew put together.
Riders are the most visible team element to fans. In the case of BMW they represent the element team judgement I have the most doubt about.
My first concern is who is not with the team ÔÇô Leon Haslam. I was a big fan of Haslam with BMW. His crash in preseason Phillip Island testing led to pre-race surgery and very difficult 2012 season. By mid season it became clear he was not part of BMW's 2013 Rider Plan A. He was apparently offered some sort of CRT ride in MotoGP but turned that down and signed with Honda to be part of Pata Honda World Superbike Team. I am able to make sense of what and why this happened in the context of what was going on when these decisions were made. I just don't like to see a healthy Leon Haslam on a Honda to start 2013.
Chaz Davies comes from a 2012 satellite Aprilia team ride. He finished just behind Haslam in the Rider Championship and ahead of Fabrizio and Badovini the 2012 BMW Italia riders. He had a solid performance in the first round of testing. I am looking forward to good things from him on a 2013 v.2.
Marco Melandri has a 250cc GP world championship under his belt. He came to SBK on a Yamaha in 2011 finishing P2 in the Rider Championship and P3 with BMW in 2012. He brought BMW its first win and really flirted with the top spot of both hunts in 2012. Despite this his judgement is a question mark for me. His first win on a BMW came in Race 1 at Donington. Haslam was in position to Race 2 when Melandri got racy and both riders crashed out. In another wet race he would crash out in turn one as he challenged another rider. You must be racy if you are to win a championship. Racy means seeing and opportunities while making them stick. Champions know being first is best but figure out the difference between scoring the points for second place is better than laying on your back in turn one.
Melandri is a brilliant choice for BMW. I am looking forward to celebrating many times during the season and at the end of the year because of what he will do on his S1000RRv2. It is preseason. I am a grumpy old fart and should probably be ignored. Still I will reserve judgement for a while.

DUCATI ÔÇô Homologation Rules

FIM Homologation Rules are written to level a field of various engine configurations ÔÇô 2, 3 and 4 cylinders ÔÇô by taking into account the hypothetical power develop and weight as key variables among a variety to regulate. Over the life of a set of homologation rules and designs the assumptions of output may change. The addition or subtraction of weight is the primary way rule makers attempt to balance the field without rewriting the entire set of rules. The 2011 Ducati and pilot Carlos Checa were in the sweet spot resulting in a dominate championship season for both. For 2012 the replacement Panigale was deemed not ready for prime time and Ducati campaigned the 2011 bike for another season and fell like a rock in the standings. The Panigale takes to the track for 2013. It will not be asked to carry the extra ballast weight the old bike was required to. Where the new bikes powertrain and chassis development is an open question and the primary theme for fans to follow.

Ducaudi is the secondary story. Management/bean counters have changed how back of the house business and accounting is done with satellite teams. Ducaudi supports engine development and technical support and some financial support to teams. For example Carlos Checa's contract was backed by Ducati. Ducaudi has continued to underwrite but not in the same manner as the past. This resulted in shifts in teams. How this plays out over the length of a championship season will be an important theme for everyone to follow.

When I looked Carlos Checa's 2012 performance he did not a step from his brilliant 2011 season. His fall to P4 has more to do with the advances of other riders and teams than failing on Checa's part. Development of the Piangale platform key theme to Checa's and any other Ducaudi rider.

KAWASAKI ÔÇô Donuts or Doughnuts / Tyres or is it Tires?

I really like a good cup of coffee and a fresh donut or doughnuts. I hate talking about tyres or is it tires.

Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) will be the biggest threat to everyone this season. It consists of excellent riders on focused factory team, solid powerful mature bike with a donut addiction.

Tom Sykes as team leader will dominate the press .Sykes will take the headlines but pay close attention to In 2012 Sykes took a record number of pole positions. With the assistance of some red flags and season development of the bike and himself he moved passed BMW's Melandri to take P2 in the rider standings. Frenchman Loris Baz is the number 2 for KRT. This is his first full season with KRT after coming on board to fill in for countryman Joan Loscorz after his accident. He showed all the problems and potential one would expect from a nineteen year old rider thrust on the world stage. This year he has a full time ride that will demand his help in finding the small bit missing that kept KRT from rocketing to the top.

What kept Sykes from the tops slot of the Rider Championship and held down the marque's rank in the Manufacture Championship was a doughnut addiction. At least that is my interpretation and the core 2013 KRT theme for me. Both rider and bike could turn hot laps with the sticky round donuts but could not sustain their supply over the length of a full race. Over the arc of the season both rider and bike developed. Chassis development and rider skills managing the life of a set of racing slicks made the bike competitive. The current Z may be reaching the end of its development arc in its ability to respond to the competition's refinements. Look for fast laps in practice and more pole honors for KRT. The real challenge is making their tyres last for 22/22 laps instead of 19 or 20 /22 laps.

Donuts or doughnuts the real challenge is making them last as long as the coffee stays warm. Tyres or tires; the theme for KRT is making the big black round things last the length of a race and and working longer than the competition's.

HONDA ÔÇô Focus Weedhopper Focus

2012 WSBK celebrated its 25th anniversary. Honda took the Manufacture crown the first three seasons then fought for seven seasons to take the title back from Ducati in 1997. Four championships and eleven P2 championship finishes in 25 years is an impressive record; however it has not had championship podium since 2009 when if finished P3. Honda VFR Interceptor and now CBR -RR may have helped define what superbike means the companies motorcycle roadracing focus has been else where.

Honda takes the 2013 grid as Pata Honda World Superbike Team. The ongoing shake up of racing with the ownership consolidation of Dorna and Infront under Bridgepoint control and the ongoing redefining of the series appeared to refocus some of Honda's attention on SBK.

The CBR1000RR Fireblade has long been a hit on the street but in its current form is a bit long in the tool on the track. Going into the Jerez test there was great anticipation that the bike would show off renewed performance from new bits and pieces developed for the 2013 season. I often cast the 2012 bike as a dark horse waiting to take the lead when others faltered. At Jerez it was Honda that was faltering with mismatched parts and electronics frustrating the riders. It was back to Assen to figure things out once again.

Jonathan Rea returns as the teams number one rider and the number one rider many of you love to hate. Rea split his time between WSBK and MotoGP in the second half of the season. What would have been a distracting challenge for many riders appeared to focus Rea. He turned in solid performances as a fill in MotoGP rider. He finished a very solid fifth in a hotly contested Rider Championship. How he does this season will depend in great part on the crew sorting out all those parts. Leon Haslam will be helping to sort all those parts.

Haslam comes to Pata Honda cast as Rea's peer not the number 2 rider. He should be. Regurgitation of platitudes is the norm in sideline interviews of stick and ball sport atheletes. Haslam's interviews show insight into how and why he and his crew approached a track session that makes him worth his pay. A key theme to follow will be his role in the development of the 2013 Fireblade, and if he is healthy how his track performance may ignight the team and define Honda's focus.

SUZUKI ÔÇô more POWER!

I admitted that I didn't have anything to say about the FIXI Crescent Suzuki team in a post leading up to one race. I didn't have anything because I had not been following them. Since then I have been paying more attention and (not to imply cause and effect) so has the Suzuki home office.

Suzuki's superbike efforts are normally focused on the national championship level. One of the smaller motorcycle manufacturers of the big four this gave them more business bang for their racing buck. It took its only WSBK title in 2005. The race to the bottom of the WSBK charts has mirrored confusion in corporate financial fortunes involving first GM then VW that led in very large part to Suzuki's exit from MotoGP. Suzuki corporate still has much to sort out in its reorganization; however, the theme at the corporate level seems to be a shift from introspection and analysis to implementation of a plan. Always beware of a man with a plan.

The FIXI Crescent Suzuki team is a solid piece of racing work. Team management has put together solid independent and corporate sponsorship. They have put together all the back of the house components to campaign the entire 2013 season.

John Hopkins has left. He spent much of the 2012 season injured. Camier was the teams only rider fielded for several races. Two healthy races on the staff for 2013 should go a long way to making this team work.

FIXI Crescent Suzuki is still a question mark but I am starting to figure some of the questions out.

[40427]

Good comments and thoughts covering most of the field in WSBK !

I agree with most of what you said, but still feel Haslam would have been a better choice than Davies for the seat in 2013.
Not saying Davies is not competent , I just think it's a waste to let all Haslam's current knowledge of the bike slip away.

I am curious about your thought's on BMW and Larry Pegram in the AMA Super Bike series ?

Doug

[mika]

Thank you for your comments.

Would Haslam be better than Davies...those kind of debates are what benchracing is all about. If I were king of the BMW racing world I would have worked really hard, harder than they seemed to, to have signed Haslam. If money was the issue I would have opened the purse and spent it. In the stick and ball world football players get talked about like meat in a meat market. One slab of beef is pretty much interchangeable with another; the chef may have to work with it in a slightly different way but beef is beef. In that world the choice between slabs of beef is based on medical reports.

BMW and Haslam negotiated in season 2012. As I read the press BMW wanted to keep him around but for some reason did not sign him on for WSBK and could not come up with an option he liked. The lack of an acceptable option is why he is not with BMW. Why he is not with BMW in WSBK may have to do with BMW's evaluation of how much they were willing to pay for him as a rider based on reading his medical records. The S1000RRv2 is in place. It will undergo tweaking until it is replaced by the S1000RRv3. They aren't in that development program yet so the clear value Haslam brought as a development rider may have been out weighed by questions about his physical ability to campaign an entire season and secure a manufacturer's title.

In combat Davies is an unknown quantity on the S1000RR. His performance on a satellite Aprilia really impressed me. I think he is a real catch for the BMW team. If I were king of the BMW world I would have liked to partner him with Haslam. The problem was that pesky two year contract signed with Melandri giving him a ride in WSBK through 2013. I have questions about his racing judgments but will quickly admit on a bad day he handles the twisty bits and all the rest of the track better than I have ever done in my best dreams.

BMW and Larry Pegram in AMA

I can say all sorts of things on this topic; however, as you would read them you would quickly realize I have not followed AMA superbike racing for several years. I am going to ramp up coverage of AMA ProRacing in the Other Racing section this season. No doubt as I think I get up to speed I will have much to say...

[40427]

I lost interest in the whole AMA thing a while ago even after being a Charter life member .

Have followed Larry Pegram's career since I first met him while helping out at the track running MARS races back in the late 80's early 90's.
He always impressed me with his ability to adapt on the flat tracks. Both dirt and asphalt.

One night after the races he and I were talking and I suggested he might look in to road racing as there was a lot more money to be made by a rider there than in flat track. A short time later he started making the odd appearance at road events and showed some grit and talent.

I think his move to team ownership is smart in the long run for him, he is making a lot of friends in the mover and shaker department , and has landed a television gig and a good sponsor with an insurance company.
He did yeomans duty with the Ducati until they pulled out and left him stranded. BMW has a real opportunity to do something bigger here in the states with a well run program like Larry has.

[mika]

I casually followed it until the dust up over the sale of AMA ProRacing. In the process the series rules seemed more than a bit confusing when compared to the rest of the FIM sanctioned world. At the same time BMW purchased Husqvarna and they took the BMW racing budget for the US. Things have settled down in ProRacing. BMW's sale of Husqvarna should free up racing support dollars for 2014 and beyond if not for 2013. Thanks for the insight into the topic.

[mika]

Wednesday, 13 February


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

For Sale: S1000RR slightly used but lovingly cared for

11.02.13
alpha Racing WSBK Bikes
CATEGORY: ALPHA RACING
Original BMW S 1000 RR WSBK bikes for sale

BMW S 1000 RR from the seasons 2011/2012
Rider: Melandri, Haslam, Corser
from the stock of alpha Racing WSBK-Team
original state, racing condition
different equipment packages
BMW Motorrad Motorsport racing-electronic
lots of equipment/ spare parts
support by alpha Racing possible
race-ready
price: from 70.000 Ôé¼, plus VAT (depending on model year and equipment)

inquire to sales( at )alpharacing.com
more pictures: www.alpharacing.com/bmw-superbike

XE.com's currency converty places that at $94,110.94. If I can get a decent price for the Roadster and don't get caught robbing my bank I could get into some real trouble with an alfa Racing S1000RR.

MotoGP

2013 Theme comments continued:

MotorGP is BORING!

There. I have said it.

Fans of boxing, the sweet science, will tell you the heavyweight bought is the most boring one on the fight card. If MotoGP fans are honest the heavyweight MotoGP race may have its rounds but on almost any MotoGP weekend the best wheel to wheel road racing is in the under cards of Moto2 and 3.

MotoGP is expensive and boring. Bridgepoint knows this, is working on this and there is theme that catches my eye for 2013. Repackaging MotoGP will have ripple effects beyond the 'primer' series that will impact every form of motorcycle road racing world wide.

Riders
The risks v rewards math, even at this level, weren't enough to keep Casey Stoner around. Taking him at his word his discussions with family and friends led to the conclusion it was alright to race just not in MotoGP. Safety and health were key factors. Riders continue fight for the chance to ride in the series even after they do the same math Stoner did.

Rider saftey was MotoGP's mandate to Loris Capirossi when they made him their safety adviser. While a step in the right direction true advancement in rider safety will not happen until the riders form a riders association and demand it. Driver safety in F1 did not come into place until they organized. It continues because the association has continued and expanded to other forms of cage racing. Motorcycle racers can not leave it to the cage racers. On the track as on the street what is often safe for cages puts life and limb at risk for motorcyclists. Until MotoGP riders in the weekends three classes organize they and by default the rest of us are left at the good will and market forces of the organizers and team owner/managers. For mortals like you and me (at least me) rider equipment developed to meet these extreme conditions is a key theme to follow.

Motorcycles

MotoGP must move to finalize its engine formula. Further delay critically and potentially fatally impacts other series and potentially road racing's future. It is getting closer to doing so. It remains a key theme for racing fans and should be of interest to everyone else. As the premier class it defines the R&D direction for the manufacturers.

CRT was an opportunity botched. With a viable 250cc class to develop riders and a single engine multi-chassis class to develop designers CRT struck me as a great way of pulling it all together. The cream of the riders would rise. Chassis designers would do the same. Manufacturers would become engine suppliers allowing them to focus on that element while the class would bring the best of the rest together. Oh well. My hope and fear is what they finally come up with will screw up World SBK. I am fine with MotoGP being the premier prototype class of motorcycle racing but in the process please do not turn SBK into a box stock racing class. I have seen Vespa racing and it is an absolute hoot but it ain't World SBK.

Stay tuned as they get it done.

Three Legged Stools
Racers, fans and all the rest sit on a three legged stool with legs made up of promoters, the FIM, and manufacturers. The three legs will come together to make a stool but will it be one we will want to sit on?

PROMOTERS
In MotoGP that is Bridgepoint. Yes Dorna is its mouthpiece but Bridgepoint is the theme to follow.

Bridgepoint is a investment group focusing on sports promotion. Its key holdings and interst were in football (soccer to the yanks around here). It purchased Dorna and then Infront, as best I can tell, because of the football promotions they controlled and in anticipation of the up coming World Cup. The business manager side of me, steeped in start ups and having gone through an informal work out, quickly wondered what their exit strategy was for the racing components of the deals. 2012 brought Canadian Retirement Board money to the group. In the short term that allows Bridgepoint in its current form to hold on to the racing efforts while they reorganize them. Are they reorganizing to run or sell is a theme to look for in what stories come out.

F.I.M.
Motorcycling's international body has been sanctioning world wide racing for what seems like forever. In theory is writes the homologation rules for racing classes, race tracks and all the rest. In real life they seem more meeting planner/referee than rule writer. The FIM pulls together representatives from racing promotional organizers, FIM member countries and manufacturers for meetings that write the rules. Its cooperative approach appears in reality to have it following the lead of the manufacturers who are pandered to by the promoters. This is a window of opportunity for the FIM to step up and be a peer. Its role in the future of world championship racing and the future of racing at its national levels is the theme of interst here.

MANUFACTURERS
Wake any race fan up in the middle of the night and ask them for a motorcycle racing manufacturer theme that interests and they will rattle off a litany of familiar themes. One few will mention is the changing relationship between the three legs. Manufacturers dominated the meetings mentioned in the previous paragraph. Things may be changing and that is a theme to seriously follow.

Suzuki representatives attended the recent Sepang test round. They continue to prepare for a 2014 return to MotoGP. Yesterday I alluded to a spin off impact of this on the FIXI Crescent Suzuki Team's 2013 prospects and WSBK in a larger sense. Dorna welcomed them with open arms. The more the merrier BUT if you come racing with us in 2014 you must do it with an existing team.

Bridgepoint used their Dorna canon to fire major shot across the manufacturer's bow. The effectiveness of this and what message is taken away is a theme definitely worth following.

RULES
2013 MotoGP will begin with a new set of qualifying rules that embodies the three legged stool issue in many ways. Hot lap times in all but one of four free practice sessions will determine if teams and riders have to go through one or two qualifying sessions. This should increase interest in the qualifying sessions and thus make them more valuable to the promoter (track and Dorna). For the top 8 teams/riders it is no big deal. They will run hot laps and participate in one qualifying session as they have in the past. For mid field and down riders and teams this is a mixed blessing. The process increases attention on them and thus exposure for their sponsors. Score +1. It increases their costs by having to run an extra session. Score 0 (I think you can make a + or ÔÇô case). Puts more emphasis on hot laps instead of race setups Score a big -1. We fans will have much more to bench race but the real impact of this new rule remains to be seen. A firm believer in the law of unintended consequences has me fearing the worst over the long run.

ANALYSIS

Lorenzo and Rossi will hate each other.
Rossi will win at least one race.
Pedrosa will struggle mightily and win races for Repsol Honda.
Ducaudi riders and team will find their hands full of handlebars trying to beat CRT teams and stay out of Q1 instead of using them to find their butts.
Other riders will shine at times.
Many will crash spectacularly.
I will continue to scratch my head at why MotoGP will not allow embeded YouTube videos.
By the end of the last race we will know who is champion.
The more things change the more they stay the same.


Formula One

]formula1.com: Pirelli ÔÇô hard to draw conclusions from Jerez tests

reuters.com: Lotus confident Jerez test problems will not recur

bbc.co.uk: Number crunching gives early F1 guide
Agree or not with the BBC interpretation the article gives a good insight into the difficulty of fans taking away meaningful information without knowing what the test plan was for any team.

Other Racing

MC

amaproracing.com: Pegram improves already lethal Yamaha lineup

supercross.com: San Diego SX 2013 Review

Cage and...

thekneeslider.com:
Q from TheKneeSlider: Did you ever wonder what Norman Hossack would have done if he had designed a front wheel drive system on a motorcycle using his suspension?
A: Not really but if had we might have AWD K bikes with suspensions he would get design credit for but no royalties.



On the Street

RECALL; NHTSA Recall ID No. 13V035000
Dated: FEB 01, 2013 Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2009 YW125 (Zuma 125) scooters manufactured between July 2008 and April 2009 due to possible improper clearances in the internal fuel pump components.

motorsportnewswire.com: EVS sports announces new axis sport knee brace

HFL: How the new R1200GS engine works

dealernews.com: Zero motorcycles unveils 2013 police, security vehicle lineup

world.honda.com: Introduction of the CTX700N, CTX700

ultimatemotorycling.com: Destination | Route 66 motorcycle travel

motorcycle-usa.com: EPA wants seperate E10 pumps at stations that sell E15

motorcycle.com: Ready ramp review

The MotherShip PressClub

Transport Canada / BMW Recall :ID No. 2013049 ÔÇô Rolls Royce Phantom
On certain vehicles, the fuel filler neck was incorrectly manufactured. Specifically, the anti-misfueling device is missing. This component prevents refueling with the wrong fuel type (i.e. diesel) and also...

Transport Canada / BMW Recall Recall ID No. 2013048 ÔÇô certain Series 1,3,X1 and Z4 models
On certain vehicles, the positive battery cable connection to the fuse box could fail while the vehicle is being driven. This could interrupt the vehicleÔÇÖs electrical system, resulting in engine stalling, loss of...

Simon Pavey is well known in the BMW Motorrad world. As Chief Instructor of BMW UKÔÇÖs Off-Road Skills training academy, the 43-year-old Australian has taught hundreds of GS owners how to ride the dirt ÔÇô including Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in preparation for their Long Way Round voyage. ItÔÇÖs the Dakar Rally that excites Pavey most though, and this year saw him return to South America to* ....More

The BMW Z4 GTEs in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) and the works-supported BMW Z4 GT3s at the N??rburgring 24 Hours (DE) will take to the track with Michelin as their tyre partner in the 2013 season. The collaboration began with joint testing in January, before the maiden race outing together on 16th March 2013 at the 12 Hours of Sebring (US), which traditionally kicks off the American Le Mans Series (ALMS). ...More

BMW is embarking on a new chapter of its motorsport commitment in North America: after four successful years with the BMW M3 GT, the new BMW Z4 GTE will take over at the head of the manufacturerÔÇÖs campaign in the 2013 American Le Mans Series (ALMS). On Tuesday, BMW Motorsport and BMW Team RLL presented the car and drivers for the new season at the ÔÇ£Daytona International SpeedwayÔÇØ (US). ....More

In 2013, BMW Motorsport is embarking on another chapter of its involvement in the American Le Mans Series. After four successful years and five GT titles, the time has come for the BMW M3 GT to step aside. In the BMW Z4 GTE, we are lining up with a completely new car. ...More

This yearÔÇÖs Geneva International Motor Show sees BMW showcasing a compelling line-up of new production models while also turning the spotlight on some groundbreaking premium compact concepts featuring forward-looking design as well as boasting outstanding sustainability credentials. Lending added highlights to the show stand are a range of innovative driver assistance systems from BMW ConnectedDrive. ....More

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today publishes the second image of its next model, Wraith, a hand-built motor car that exudes hallmark Rolls-Royce luxury and comfort whilst possessing a character defined by Power, Style and Drama. ...More

Cage World

Reference Library

Bike Candy

[mika]

Thursday, 14 February ÔÇô Happy Valentines Day


Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Giugliano keen to start new seasson on high note.
Strong rider in 2012 with the same team and a new bike. Not a factory team but a strong threat.

superbikeplanet.com: Speed ÔÇô No plans for WSBK

twowheelblog: Mediaset promotes World Superbikes with a little male nudity

MotoGP

motomatters.com: 2013 Moto2 Valencia February day 2 tests

motomatters.com: Matt Oxley, guest blog: CRT Bikes ÔÇô some perspective

Other Racing

MC

sportrider.com: MV Agusta Team Parkingo World Supersport
Prelude to SBK return?



Cage and...

mclaren.com: Remembering the 1970 Can AM McLaren
I remember seing this car at a couple of races that season. At Donnybrook we had passes that let us on to the track while the cars were parked on the grid.

On the Street

canadianmotorcyclerider.ca: Canadian BMW R1200GS pricing

jsonline.com: Motorcyclists protest profiling and police traffic stops for wearing club patches

asphaltandrubber.com: Rumor ÔÇô KTM RC25 ÔÇô a sports bike coming from India

HFL: Double amputee rides again

motorcyclistonline.com: Ducati 848 EVO Corse SE | First Look

HFL: Icon Federal 1000 Jacket

cycleworld.com: Shadow Zurich WPF textile jacket and pants









The MotherShip PressClub



It was MINIÔÇÖs first appearance as the official partner of the Warner Music Group Grammy after party held in Hollywood February 10, 2013 following the 55th Annual Grammy Awards. ....More

The 2013 season will once again see a bright yellow BMW M3 DTM on the starting grid. Deutsche Post is continuing its commitment as Premium Partner of BMW Motorsport. Timo Glock (DE) will be at the wheel of the DEUTSCHE POST BMW M3 DTM, which will be run by BMW Team MTEK. ...More



Cage World

dallasnews.com: New BMW parts warehouse will bring more jobs to Interstate 20 corridor

FWIW

motorcycledaily.com: Can Honda interest Gen Y in the 2014 CTX700s?

The past 13 years have seen the average age of motorcyclists increase every year. The down turn slowed the market and may have skewed the numbers. In the past few years women were seen as the market to tap. Move them from the pillion and sell them friendly bikes that were of the ilk they were already familiar with. Manufacturers are retracing their steps with scooters and now modern UJM variants. I find them attractive, built and boring as all get out. But then I bang away on a BMW forum. What do you think?

Mean while over in Japan they are getting a VTR250F that looks much more interesting to me.

Reference Library

Bike Candy

Taking your honey for a ride on Valentines Day circa 1938

[ChaseH]

I'm starting to panic about WSBK not having a tv deal. Any way to watch online?

[40427]

As far as i am concerned if Speed does not carry the WSBK and/or the GP races I will be saving some money by dropping the cable package i pay extra for .

I am sick to death of NAPCAR, Pimp My Ho Ride, and the rest of the mindless drivel they have been showing all winter.
If i hear boogity boogity or MacReynolds voice again i think I will scream.

[mika]

MotoGP has VideoPass which allows you to watch practice sessions and races online. In past years the service has been offered in a couple of levels and on a race by race basis. IIRC not particularly cheap but if you are dropping the cable option you offset part of the expense if not all. Individual accounting math may vary.

I don't recall the deal on SBK if any though they may have had one on race day. I can not find it on their site.

Rumors floated when F1 moved to NBCSports that bikes were negotiating and would follow. I repeat and emphasize that was a rumor.

Video proxy services are available which would allow you to watch via some other service. A former neighbor and Brit expat had a service that allowed him to follow football, F1 and MotoGP via BBC online.

I "watch" races on live timing. Definitely not for everyone, but I really enjoy tracking the lap charts. If you have read any race reports on race day you know I am a bit strange that way. I quit watching F1 on Speed years ago because they do their commentary from the same live timing feed with a few extra screens but surprising not many. Their 'live' feed was actually delayed to allow them to put their commentary together. The video feed never caught the interesting things in the mid field or behind. The commentary cracked me up at times with how much it varied form what I was seeing in the timing information.

I will keep looking for info. Please post if you have a viable option beyond VideoPass options.

[40427]

Those of you lot who follow this thread , please post any and all links that can keep me connected to GP, WSBK, F-1 et al:
( Indycar not so much)

Stuck at home most of the time on a seriously reduced fixed income .
I live for racing news, videos, info, and live stuff.
Part of the problem is less than optimal computer skills and lack of discretionary $$ to buy internet packages.
I depended on my television to provide me with all the things i liked , but it seems those days are over or at least numbered. :-(