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Canadian amateur racer Invited to 2011 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Tryout in Spain
Top-ranked Canadian amateur road racer Steven Nickerson has been selected to attend a two-day trial for the 2011 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup series at the Monteblanco circuit near Sevilla, in the south of Spain - September 13-15.
Prior to learning that he was selected to attend the tryout the 15 year-old Hamilton-based racer had just wrapped up his first season in the Amateur Sport Bike class of the national Parts Canada Superbike Championship series. Nickerson finished the season with a solid third overall in the final 2010 Championship standings
This The Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup is a unique program designed to help develop up-and-coming young motorcycle talent from around the globe. This prestigious series provides riders a chance to compete on world-class racing circuits across Europe on identical KTM RC125 race bikes and under identical conditions. Riders are selected to tryout through a thorough application process.
Nickerson will be one of numerous riders ages 13 to 17 years old invited from around the world to vie for a handful of spots open to new applicants. The final selectees will have the opportunity to develop their skills and prove themselves in front of Grand Prix fans, teams and the media.
"This is an opportunity of a lifetime! My main goals are to have fun and improve each time I’m on the track.” said Nickerson. “I know whatever the outcome I will have learned so much and have had a very memorable experience!”
A panel of five racing experts will evaluate the Rookies Cup applicants in Spain. The selection committee includes noted engineer Harold Bartol, former MotoGP team owner Peter Clifford and 1993 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Kevin Schwantz.
About 10-15 racers from the two-day trial are expected to be invited to participate in the 2011 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.
American Jake Gagne clinched the 2010 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup at the Misano World Circuit in Italy last weekend. The 17-year-old from California edged Great Britain’s Danny Kent for the title.
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Ducati sales rise dramatically in August 2010
Ducati North America is delighted to report a 24% increase in sales for the month of August, a significant growth in a declining market for the second month in a row.
August’s drastic increase in sales is the result of several influencing factors on the dealer and product sides of Ducati’s business. The increase is significant; as while Ducati is up 24% in North America the industry declined 13% stateside in August.
The arrival of the new Monster 796 and the first 848EVO Superbikes saw two of 2010’s most exciting new models hit the market; while the Multistrada 1200 S continues to be one of the industry’s best sellers. This formidable product lineup has reconfirmed that the market wants innovative, quality performance models.
“We are pleased with the hard work put forth by our dealer network, which allowed us to achieve these positive results,” said Jason Chinnock, Sales and Marketing Director for Ducati North America. “With the launch of the Fall Oppor2unity Sales Promotion and the renewed support of our dealer partners we are cautiously optimistic for the remainder of the season.”
September will mark the arrival of many pre-ordered 848EVO Superbikes and continued deliveries of the Monster 796 ABS and Multistrada 1200 S; ensuring strong sales for Ducati as the fall season kicks off.
Motoress adds cosmetics to their lineup
Thu, Sep 9 2010 07:40 AM
| Permalink
MOTORESS; what I'd describe as a lifestyle motorcycle website focused on the needs of women has come out with a line of cosmetics.
Full press release follows:
MOTORESS.com is not only renewing its web site but the Toronto based global company is launching a brand new cosmetic and garment line for women who ride. “These are exciting times at MOTORESS! Its absolutely thrilling introducing a high end, glamour line of cosmetic basics entirely with women riders’ needs in mind, into an industry that is so predominately masculine,” says Vicki Gray, the founder of MOTORESS and of International Female Ride Day. “It is also a great moment for all our fans at MOTORESS.com since we are offering them an updated website experience. It was time to improve its usability and refresh its look to continue catering to our grand audience and visitors. With the introduction of MOTORESS exclusive products, we needed to update the shopping experience with a fully functional e-commerce shop”, she adds.
Since its introduction in 2006, MOTORESS continues its innovative methods to engage women riders. Today, the company offers women new products and services supporting their needs as enthusiasts in the lifestyle of motorsport. “It was time to introduce something so specifically feminine and what we’ve appropriately named “Beauty Gear” to the wardrobe for women riders!” adds Vicki. MOTORESS Beauty Gear includes lipstick, lip glaze, lip gloss, pressed mineral powder bronzer and mineral face and body shimmer powder. All product colours have been named with a “motorcycle theme” such as Racette, Zoom and Adrenaline for the lipsticks. Lip gloss and lip glaze in colours called Velocity, Torque and Rebel Diva to name a few which I’m certain women riders can have fun with!” Vicki adds.
All lipsticks are enriched with Vitamin E known for is soothing and healing properties. The formula is long lasting, super shiny and glossy with a lightweight feeling. The texture is creamier and richer than other varieties, leaving your lips feeling luscious while accenting them with dazzling colour. MOTORESS lip glosses have been formulated for their protection against the drying and damaging effects of the elements. All the information on this exciting new cosmetic line is available on the web site. “All products are available right now on line and world wide”, says Vicki who enjoyed her first corporate career in the health and beauty industry with Revlon International. The “Beauty Gear©” line will eventually be available through select motorcycle dealerships later on this year!” Vicki adds.
The garment line will carry firstly a small selection of t-shirt styles and a track jacket all made from either Bamboo or stretch Bamboo with a slight blend of organic cotton. Bamboo is gentle on the skin but high on performance. Its moisture wicking, antibacterial and UV resistant qualities make it ideal for wearing underneath motorcycle gear but soft and gentle for a woman’s more delicate skin. “Our International Female Ride Day t-shirt was from Bamboo and organic cotton and was a huge success-sold all over the world!” adds Vicki. The feedback we received underlined the decision to expand with our Bamboo. These are humble beginnings but we have exciting future plans as we move forward with MOTORESS products, clothing and the first of its kind “Beauty Gear” for women riders!”, says Vicki.
The cosmetics and apparel will be available online only via the MOTORESS.com e-shop located within the newly redesigned website. MOTORESS fans will be able to continue enjoying the websites broad range of news, articles and reviews but now right from the initial arrival to the site. Of course, the e-Shop will be easily reachable. “MOTORESS.com has a huge numbers of daily visitors and an equally large following. We wanted to ensure we continued to please and entice our visitors in their passion for motorcycling!” adds Vicki. With the fabulous fun fierce styled cosmetic line and apparel, Vicki Gray anticipates web traffic numbers to triple by the end of 2010.
New management at Husqvarna Motorcycles
From September 1st 2010 Klaus Allisat (41) takes over management of Husqvarna Motorcycles S.R.L. from Rainer Thoma (42).
Klaus Allisat has worked for the BMW Group since 2003. He has been Vice President Purchasing BMW Motorrad since 2008, in which function he has also been responsible for Husqvarna Motorcycles purchasing operations.
Before joining the BMW Group Allisat worked in various internationally oriented positions in corporate consulting with A.T.Kearney GmbH, Stuttgart and prior to this for Daimler Benz AG, Stuttgart.
After three years of managing Husqvarna Motorcycles, Rainer Thoma will now be taking up a new position at BMW Group headquarters in Munich.
Since the acquisition of Husqvarna MC by the BMW Group in 2007, the company has been separated from MV Agusta, a new R&D centre has been put into operation at the Husqvarna site Cassinetta, production and spare parts supply has been restructured and the company has pushed ahead with numerous developments for the Husqvarna Motorcycles product offensive now starting.
In spite of a difficult global market environment, Husqvarna MC was able to maintain a stable sales volume from 2008 to 2009 as compared to the competition. With a sales decrease of only around 3% in 2009, the brand recorded a lower decline than any of its competitors.
Klaus Allisat has worked for the BMW Group since 2003. He has been Vice President Purchasing BMW Motorrad since 2008, in which function he has also been responsible for Husqvarna Motorcycles purchasing operations.
Before joining the BMW Group Allisat worked in various internationally oriented positions in corporate consulting with A.T.Kearney GmbH, Stuttgart and prior to this for Daimler Benz AG, Stuttgart.
After three years of managing Husqvarna Motorcycles, Rainer Thoma will now be taking up a new position at BMW Group headquarters in Munich.
Since the acquisition of Husqvarna MC by the BMW Group in 2007, the company has been separated from MV Agusta, a new R&D centre has been put into operation at the Husqvarna site Cassinetta, production and spare parts supply has been restructured and the company has pushed ahead with numerous developments for the Husqvarna Motorcycles product offensive now starting.
In spite of a difficult global market environment, Husqvarna MC was able to maintain a stable sales volume from 2008 to 2009 as compared to the competition. With a sales decrease of only around 3% in 2009, the brand recorded a lower decline than any of its competitors.
2010 Calabogie Boogie Trail Ride and Dualsport
We received some news from the folks at Rally Connex and in association with the Bytown Motorcycle Association (BMA) they're holding the Calabogie Boogie 2010 Dualsport this September 11-12 in Calabogie, Ontario.
Full Details:
Calabogie Boogie 2010 Dualsport
We have narrowed it down to just under 600km of prime trails, paths, gravel and paved roads. They are expertly linked together in a pattern that should keep everyone happy. There is a "main" route which leads through the course consisting of hard packed road allowances, gravel and paved roads. Branching off of the main route are various aggressive sections, with varying levels of difficulty. Some include two track trails, and hydro lines, while others are single track grass and short mud sections. There are look-outs and even "Extension" routes if you just can't get enough. The scenery is incredible and the wide variety of terrain will keep you giggling in your helmet. That's right, I said it.
All you need is a street legal bike. The larger bike, and those with gravel friendly tires will be linking together all the main routes, while the smaller bikes with knobby tires will be taking each of the aggressive sections. Everyone, including those in the on the trail ride, will be starting and finishing at the same location each day, including the lunch stops.
There is camping at the start area, beside the Calabogie Highlands Golf course. There are motels and gas in Calabogie, which is 10 minutes up the road.
The gas stops are within the routes, so you won't need to stray from the pack. The routes are laid out on GPS, which will be loaded at sign-in (inside the clubhouse on Friday evening and Saturday morning). If you do not have a GPS, you can buddy up with someone who does, or rent one. As with all of our events, we will have sweep riders on each route and a support truck available all day.
Bring your camera and a healthy appetite for adventure, and join about 200 fellow dirt bikers for the Calabogie Boogie Trail Ride and Dualsport.
On-line sign up and more details are available through http://www.rallyconnex.com/calabogie.htm
Full Details:
Calabogie Boogie 2010 Dualsport
We have narrowed it down to just under 600km of prime trails, paths, gravel and paved roads. They are expertly linked together in a pattern that should keep everyone happy. There is a "main" route which leads through the course consisting of hard packed road allowances, gravel and paved roads. Branching off of the main route are various aggressive sections, with varying levels of difficulty. Some include two track trails, and hydro lines, while others are single track grass and short mud sections. There are look-outs and even "Extension" routes if you just can't get enough. The scenery is incredible and the wide variety of terrain will keep you giggling in your helmet. That's right, I said it.
All you need is a street legal bike. The larger bike, and those with gravel friendly tires will be linking together all the main routes, while the smaller bikes with knobby tires will be taking each of the aggressive sections. Everyone, including those in the on the trail ride, will be starting and finishing at the same location each day, including the lunch stops.There is camping at the start area, beside the Calabogie Highlands Golf course. There are motels and gas in Calabogie, which is 10 minutes up the road.
The gas stops are within the routes, so you won't need to stray from the pack. The routes are laid out on GPS, which will be loaded at sign-in (inside the clubhouse on Friday evening and Saturday morning). If you do not have a GPS, you can buddy up with someone who does, or rent one. As with all of our events, we will have sweep riders on each route and a support truck available all day.
Bring your camera and a healthy appetite for adventure, and join about 200 fellow dirt bikers for the Calabogie Boogie Trail Ride and Dualsport.
On-line sign up and more details are available through http://www.rallyconnex.com/calabogie.htm
BMW Motorrad achieves 3rd consecutive record month
BMW Motorrad achieves 3rd consecutive record month
BMW Motorrad Canada set an all time record for the month of August with 185 retails, an increase of 19.4% over the same period in 2009. BMW Motorrad year-to-date retails of 1,620 units represent an increase of 4.9% over last year.
And some bigger (global) news from the BMW Group:
The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. The pre-tax profit for 2009 was euro 413 million, revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.
BMW Motorrad posted another major increase in sales in July and continued on its growth track. Against the persistent downward trend in the motorcycle segment over 500 cc, BMW Motorrad sales rose by 4.4% to 10,022 (prev. yr. 9,604) units in July. With its young and attractive range of models, BMW Motorrad reported sales growth of 18.5% to 67,037 (prev. yr. 56,578) vehicles in the year to the end of July.
The large long-distance enduro, the BMW R 1200 GS, remains the best-selling model in the BMW motorcycle range. The GS will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. It is the most successful BMW motorcycle ever built and has become the world’s best-selling motorcycle in the 500 cc and above range.
BMW Motorrad Canada set an all time record for the month of August with 185 retails, an increase of 19.4% over the same period in 2009. BMW Motorrad year-to-date retails of 1,620 units represent an increase of 4.9% over last year.
And some bigger (global) news from the BMW Group:
The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. The pre-tax profit for 2009 was euro 413 million, revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.
BMW Motorrad posted another major increase in sales in July and continued on its growth track. Against the persistent downward trend in the motorcycle segment over 500 cc, BMW Motorrad sales rose by 4.4% to 10,022 (prev. yr. 9,604) units in July. With its young and attractive range of models, BMW Motorrad reported sales growth of 18.5% to 67,037 (prev. yr. 56,578) vehicles in the year to the end of July.
The large long-distance enduro, the BMW R 1200 GS, remains the best-selling model in the BMW motorcycle range. The GS will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. It is the most successful BMW motorcycle ever built and has become the world’s best-selling motorcycle in the 500 cc and above range.
Husqvarna Canada Race Report – FMSQ Rounds 6 |||amp; 7
FP Husqvarna / Zip-Ty Racing Canada’s podium streak has continued in Quebec’s hotly contested FMSQ series. Husqvarna Canada’s Guy Giroux and Karine Geoffrion each climbed the podium at both Round 6, held in Rockland on August 8th, and at Round 7 in Ormstown on August 22nd.
Giroux has put his Husqvarna on the podium in every FMSQ round he has raced in 2010. Karine Geoffrion’s consistent success battling the fierce competition in the ladies class leaves her sitting in a solid 2nd overall and only 6 points shy of taking over the lead in the Championship.
Prior to Round 6 in Rockland, Guy Giroux had spent some time riding Karine’s WR 125 two stroke in practice. He had so much fun that he decided to race one at the next round. Guy got a new WR 125 and installed the 144cc kit for the Rockland Race. Giroux hammered the little 144 through the Rockland course and fought his way into 2nd overall by the time the checkers flew.
GUY GIROUX
“I wasn’t sure if I had made the right decision to race the 144 but I had so much fun on that bike that it was ridiculous. Getting a podium with it made it that much better. It might not have the power I’m used to but that little bike turned and handled perfect”.
Karine Geoffrion screamed her trusty WR 125 off the starting line at Rockland and grabbed the holeshot before dropping back to 3rd early in the race. Karine mounted a charge throughout the rest of the race that left her shy of catching the leader, but with a solid 2nd overall at the finish and several minutes of breathing room over 3rd position.
KARINE GEOFFRION
At Round 7, both Guy and Karine picked up where they left off at the previous race by once again fighting their way to podium positions at the Ormstown event. Guy Giroux opted to race the WR 144 for the second race in a row and was rewarded with another solid 2nd overall finish.
“I was stuck in about 5th place after the start and was getting roosted like crazy. By the time I was able to pull the trigger and get into 2nd, Jason (Thomas) was long gone. The laps were very long and Karine pulled me in for fuel on lap 3 and it gave 3rd place a chance to catch up. It was pouring rain and the track was crazy slippery, so I just concentrated on staying up and avoiding trouble until the end.”
Although Karine Geoffrion had some challenges with the mud and rocks of the Ormstown course, she was able to ride steady and strong on her WR 125 and successfully battled her way to the final podium position. Karine’s 3rd overall in Ormstown leaves her 2nd overall in the 2010 series and within striking distance of the Championship
We are very grateful to our many amazing sponsors. Without them, our team would not exist.
Husqvarna Canada Team Sponsor
Husqvarna Canada, Feeding Performance Inc., Motovan, Rekluse, Ogio, Dragon, Xtreme, TCX, Axis, Zox, Pro-Tech, Etnies, Throttle Entertainment, UNI Filter, DID, LeoVince, GPR Stabilizer, Motul, LimeNine, EC3D, Impact Canopies, GoPro, Enduro Engineering, Supersprox, SkyCap, Boyesen, E-line, IMS, Matrix Concepts, TM Designworks, Dunlop and Zip Ty Racing
Special thanks to the Husqvarna Canada dealers that provide extra assistance help ensure our race program is a success; Bow Ridge Sports in Cochrane, Echo Cycle in Edmonton and RiverCity Cycle in Kamloops.
Prior to Round 6 in Rockland, Guy Giroux had spent some time riding Karine’s WR 125 two stroke in practice. He had so much fun that he decided to race one at the next round. Guy got a new WR 125 and installed the 144cc kit for the Rockland Race. Giroux hammered the little 144 through the Rockland course and fought his way into 2nd overall by the time the checkers flew.
GUY GIROUX
“I wasn’t sure if I had made the right decision to race the 144 but I had so much fun on that bike that it was ridiculous. Getting a podium with it made it that much better. It might not have the power I’m used to but that little bike turned and handled perfect”.
Karine Geoffrion screamed her trusty WR 125 off the starting line at Rockland and grabbed the holeshot before dropping back to 3rd early in the race. Karine mounted a charge throughout the rest of the race that left her shy of catching the leader, but with a solid 2nd overall at the finish and several minutes of breathing room over 3rd position.
KARINE GEOFFRION
At Round 7, both Guy and Karine picked up where they left off at the previous race by once again fighting their way to podium positions at the Ormstown event. Guy Giroux opted to race the WR 144 for the second race in a row and was rewarded with another solid 2nd overall finish.“I was stuck in about 5th place after the start and was getting roosted like crazy. By the time I was able to pull the trigger and get into 2nd, Jason (Thomas) was long gone. The laps were very long and Karine pulled me in for fuel on lap 3 and it gave 3rd place a chance to catch up. It was pouring rain and the track was crazy slippery, so I just concentrated on staying up and avoiding trouble until the end.”
Although Karine Geoffrion had some challenges with the mud and rocks of the Ormstown course, she was able to ride steady and strong on her WR 125 and successfully battled her way to the final podium position. Karine’s 3rd overall in Ormstown leaves her 2nd overall in the 2010 series and within striking distance of the Championship
We are very grateful to our many amazing sponsors. Without them, our team would not exist.
Husqvarna Canada Team Sponsor
Husqvarna Canada, Feeding Performance Inc., Motovan, Rekluse, Ogio, Dragon, Xtreme, TCX, Axis, Zox, Pro-Tech, Etnies, Throttle Entertainment, UNI Filter, DID, LeoVince, GPR Stabilizer, Motul, LimeNine, EC3D, Impact Canopies, GoPro, Enduro Engineering, Supersprox, SkyCap, Boyesen, E-line, IMS, Matrix Concepts, TM Designworks, Dunlop and Zip Ty Racing
Special thanks to the Husqvarna Canada dealers that provide extra assistance help ensure our race program is a success; Bow Ridge Sports in Cochrane, Echo Cycle in Edmonton and RiverCity Cycle in Kamloops.
Rounds 5 and 6 Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship
Parry Sound, ON is the place to be on September 11th & 12th for the Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship presented by Parts Canada and brought to you by Honda Canada. The first four rounds in Alberta and BC were a huge success and built the momentum and excitement for the final four rounds. There were over 120 riders at the first events and we are expecting at least that many to show up in Parry Sound next weekend and Labelle, PQ on Sept 18th & 19th.
There are over 18 riders from Western Canada making the trip on the Royal Distributing race transport including top Pro's Honda's Jason Schrage, KTM's Geoff Nelson, Husaberg's Shane Cuthbertson, Husqvarna's Ryan & Nick Graffunder and many others including Julian Cerny, Jared Thomas, Paul Petrin and wildman Ben Rego.
To answer the western challenge the eastern riders like Brian Wojnarowski, Adam Millson, Guy Giroux and Chris Van Hove are getting ready. Machine Racing is bringing in a few hot shots like Jake Stapleton on a Honda 250F and former MX star and current Editor of MXP Magazine Ryan Gauld on a Yamaha 250F. Add in Quebec star Philipe Chaine and the E1 class will be very, very interesting. Another Eastern star - 8 time US National Enduro Champion Mike Lafferty is also trying to get his Husaberg to Parry Sound to mix it up in E2!!
Saturday and Sunday the Rockstar gals will be in attendance with thier Ford F150 super truck giving out samples. Offroadmotorcycles.ca is planning a Sunday night after party at Don Cherry's in downtown Parry Sound that will be something you dont want to miss.
For full event information and sign up info. Click HERE.
More detail about the forthcoming Triumph Adventure bikes
Triumph have "leaked" another bit of information about their two new, and much anticipated Adventure models. The marketing plan is pretty transparent but it's still working. Slowly releasing information is seemingly increasing 'buzz' about the models.
Here's the latest video:
Here's the latest video:
Yamaha Introduces Stylish Stryker for 2011 and Early Release 2012 Super Ténéré!
Two completely different bikes - same jaw dropping impact!
Toronto, ON – September 1, 2010 – Yamaha Motor Canada is proud to announce the launch of two exciting new motorcycles, the 2011 Stryker cruiser and 2012 Super Ténéré adventure tourer. These motorcycles complement the FZ8 and Fazer 8 motorcycles previously launched in June.
The all-new Stryker, with a 1304cc, fuel-injected powerplant and chopper-inspired styling, is a motorcycle that begs to be ridden and admired. Ride quality is bolstered with typical V-Twin attributes like arm-stretching torque and a classic rumble sound. The Stryker also boasts the 34-degree rake with 6-degree yoke offset found on the larger displacement Raider, allowing for comfortable low speed handling while maintaining the stylish, low and raked look of a custom.
John Bayliss, Product Manager, Motorcycles at Yamaha Motor Canada says, “Customers can now get that original, custom look with the reliability, fit and finish that Yamaha provides from the factory. They no longer have to choose as the new Stryker offers the best of both worlds.”
Yamaha’s extraordinary new Super Ténéré has been a hot topic of conversation among motorcyclists since its European launch earlier this year. Although it will not hit showrooms until the spring, Yamaha is proud to introduce it to Canada ABS , Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle with 3-mode traction control, a low, centralized mass for confidence-inspiring handling and adjustable seat height and suspension.
“The new Ténéré is the ultimate bike for an adventurous soul. It’s has some of Yamaha’s latest technology with everything you need to cover big miles on a route less traveled”, says Bayliss.
In launching two bikes with completely different applications, Bayliss mused, “The only thing similar about these bikes is they require a motorcyclist with a bold personality who is passionate about their riding. Whether you want to attract attention on the boulevard or go exploring in remote areas, these bikes are yet another example that Yamaha has something for everyone.”
For more information on the latest Yamaha motorcycles, visit: www.yamaha-motor.ca.
Sad news for race fans everywhere
Peter Lenz - the seriously talented motorcycle racer who also happened to be only 13 years old was killed during the warmup for Sunday’s USGPRU Moriwaki MD250H race at the Indianapolis Grand Prix when he was apparently struck by another rider.
Lenz was the youngest ever licensed Expert racer in the American Federation of Motorcyclists and the youngest ever licensed Expert racer in Championship Cup Series history - at age 11.
I'm pretty sure I've posted this video of him at a race track before but watch this and you'll see why he was described as a child prodigy. Incredibly talented. A sad day indeed.
RIP Peter.
More details including a post from his father about the accident that claimed his life were on his facebook page.
Ducati Xerox team return to the racetrack this weekend in Germany
The Nürburgring (Germany), Tuesday 31st August: after a month’s break, the World Superbikes are ready to restart their engines and return to the racetrack; the next stop for the Ducati Xerox Team is Germany, and the historic Nürburgring.
Noriyuki celebrated podium success last season in Race 1 at the Ring but it was the previous year, 2008, that brought the most satisfaction, with a double win for the Japanese rider at the German track, in spite of his riding with a broken collarbone! Michel on the other hand is yet to step up to the Ring’s rostrum, his best result thus far a sixth place finish in 2008. Having returned to the SBK calendar in 2008, after an eight year break, the circuit has been characterised by some very unpredictable weather conditions that have delayed and cut short races in the last two seasons. The historic Ring, located in the heart of Germany’s Black Forest, has played host to motorsport events for more than eighty years; this will be the fifth time that the World Superbike circus visits the track.
As the 2010 edition of the championship charges rapidly towards the home straight, with only two rounds left to run after the coming weekend’s German round, Nitro-Nori lies in 7th position while Uragano Mich is 9th in the overall standings. Ducati holds third position in the constructors championship.
Noriyuki Haga (7th in championship, 177 points)
"I had a great time here in 2008, taking a double win despite some terrible conditions that messed up the smooth running of race day, but then last season didn’t go to plan as I started in pole but crashed out of race 2 in a race I was sure I could have won. The problem at the Nürburgring is that no-one can predict the conditions – we’ve seen the sun come out just minutes after a hail shower so mixed conditions like those make it hard to prepare for race day.”
Haga’s Superbike form at the Nürburgring:
2009: Race 1 – 2nd, Race 2 – DNF
2008: Race 1 – winner, Race 2 – winner
1999: Race 1 – DNF, Race 2 – 6th
1998: Race 1 – 5th, Race 2 – 7th
Michel Fabrizio (9th in championship, 160 points)
“I was disappointed to miss out on the podium at Silverstone so I’ll be trying my best to get there at the Nurburgring. I really like the track but haven’t managed to reach the podium before. The weather is so mixed of course and that can really mess up a weekend if conditions change dramatically each day. Anyway, we’ll be looking to take as many points as possible, and I’ll have my eyes on a top three finish.”
Fabrizio’s Superbike form at the Nürburgring:
2009: Race 1 – 7th, Race 2 – 9th
2008: Race 1 – 7th, Race 2 – 6th
CIRCUIT DATA:
Country: Germany
Name: The Nürburgring
Circuit length: 5.137 km
Pole position: left
Curve a sinistra: 6
Curve a destra: 11
Race distance: 20 laps = 102.74 km
LAP RECORDS: Best lap – Rea (Honda) 1’56.234 (2009). Superpole – Neukirchner (Suzuki) 1'55.471 (2008).
2009 RESULTS: Race 1 - 1. Spies (Yamaha); 2. Haga (Ducati Xerox); 3. Checa (Honda) Race 2 – 1. Rea (Honda); 2. Spies (Yamaha); 3. Checa (Honda)
