<![CDATA[TT Website Forum

<![CDATA[TT Website Forum - All Forums]]> http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/ Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:30:12 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Splitlath Redmond sign Laverty and French young gun Marino]]> http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12650 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:37:06 +0000 http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12650 [Image: splitlathredmondlogo.jpg]

The Splitlath Redmond Racing team have today (Sunday) confirmed their 2012 line up ahead of the forthcoming MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship season as John Laverty returns from injury and he is joined by former World Supersport contender Florian Marino.

John Dimbylow and former Olympic athlete Derek Redmond joined forces to become co-owners of the team at the end of last season and they unveiled their new line up at the MCN Motorcycle Show in London as Laverty joined Marino on stage.

Laverty returns to racing this season after recovering from injuries sustained in a crash last season and is now eager to ride again after previously winning the British Superbike Cup and just missing out on the Showdown in 2010.

Laverty said:

"It feels great to have the chance to be back in BSB this season, as I didn't know if it would be possible but the team have given me the opportunity and here I am. It has been a long recovery but I am taking everything one step at a time. I need to be consistent and just build up again as I haven't ridden since last year. There is no pressure on me and I am looking forward to working with such an experienced crew. I am just looking forward to being back in BSB and racing again. I need to thank everyone who has helped me to get to this point and the team for the faith they are showing in me."

Marino joins the team after racing for the Ten Kate team in the World Supersport Championship last season and finished runner up in the European Superstock Championship the year before. He will make his Superbike debut with the team and the 18-year-old is keen to make an impression.

Marino said:

"I am looking forward to racing in BSB; it is a championship where you need to fight hard and that is what I like. I am going to learn the new circuits but I am excited. I am happy as there are very good riders in BSB who have also raced in the World Championship like Josh Brookes for example and there are may fast riders too. I am focused and looking forward to the new season."

Laverty and Marino will be joining an experienced team as Tom Larson joins the team, the former HM Plant Honda and BMW World Superbike crew chief will be joined by Mark 'Brains' Woodage who has also worked on the world stage with the PTR Honda team.

Redmond said:

"Since retiring from athletics motorcycle racing is the first thing that has given me the same adrenaline buzz. We are really looking forward to this season and building up consistently as this isn't just a one year plan for the team, we are looking long term and we are excited about the future."

Dimbylow concluded:

"This is a busy time for the team and we are delighted to have signed John and Florian. We now have a very experienced crew working with us and John obviously has a lot of knowledge and we are looking forward to seeing him back on a race bike again. Florian is a young rider who we feel has a lot of potential so we are hoping for our strongest season to date in 2012."]]> [Image: splitlathredmondlogo.jpg]

Following on from his sensational performance at the 2011 Isle of Man TT Races, Dan Cooper will once again team up with Centurion Racing for the 2012 festival which starts on 26th May.

On only his second visit last year, Cooper from Stroud managed to win four bronze replicas and achieve a best lap time of 122.583mph in the Senior TT on his way to 24th place to end a superb week.

Now the former British 125GP champion and the Cornwall-based race team, which had five successful years in the British Supersport Championship, including many successes with the rider nicknamed 'Ferret', will be returning to tackle both races in the Supersport class aboard a 675cc Triumph, and the Superstock TT, Superbike and Senior TTs aboard a Honda Fireblade.

Paul Rees, Team Principal, said:

"Last year was a fantastic experience for the whole team and we enjoyed the entire fortnight so we hope to repeat that this season. We have our plans in place early so we can focus on giving Dan the best chance of improving on his magnificent results which he achieved through his professionalism and maturity. He's been working hard on his fitness which should stand him in good stead for this year's races and hopefully he will be able to build on the successes from last year."

Dan Cooper at the start of the 2011 Senior TT - courtesy of Pacemaker Press International

24 year old Cooper said:

"After competing at the 2011 TT, I believe I'm still on a high as the adrenaline, excitement and the thrill of competing at the event will never leave me. I was delighted with the overall results last year in only my second attempt and was particularly pleased to lap at over 122mph in the Senior. I'm already in training and am looking forward to all five races with Centurion Racing."

As in 2011, Centurion Racing will continue to show their support for Help for Heroes, their chosen charity, by displaying H4H logos on the bikes and team attire. Team Principal Paul Rees, who spent 20 years in Her Majesty's Royal Marine Commandos, was given permission to have the bikes carry the H4H logos in order to encourage the public to be more aware of this charity that supports our Armed Forces, many of whom are making daily sacrifices in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Centurion Racing would specially like to thank Arai, FTR, GPR Racewear, Dunlop, Rage Designs, RichArt, R2 Logo Print & Embroidery, Akrapovic, Daytona, and all our friends and followers.

For more information on Dan and Centurion Racing visit the website: www.centurionracing.com

Dan Cooper at the start of the 2011 Senior TT - courtesy of Pacemaker Press International

For more information on Dan and Centurion Racing visit the website: www.centurionracing.com

2012 TT Schedule

Saturday 26th May to Friday 1st June - Official Practice & Qualifying

Saturday 2nd June - 12:00 - TT Superbike Race - 6 laps

Monday 4th June - 10:45 - Supersport TT Race 1 - 4 laps; 14:00 - Superstock TT Race - 4 laps

Wednesday 6th June - 12:45 - Supersport TT Race 2 - 4 laps

Friday 8th June - 13:00 - Senior TT Race - 6 laps

.]]> <![CDATA[Hutchy says he'll be back racing before TT]]> http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12648 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:13:12 +0000 http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12648 [Image: hutchyswan1.jpg]

Road racer Ian Hutchinson says he should be fit for this year's TT.

The 8 time winner expects to miss the first 2 rounds of the British Superbike Championship at Brands Hatch and Thruxton during April, but says that should be it.

The Bingley rider broke his leg earlier this week whilst rehearsing for a stunt show.

On his official Twitter account, Hutchy is thanking his fans for their support and says this injury is nothing compared to his last injury, which kept him out of the sport for over a year, and has needed 19 operations to repair.

That injury meant he missed TT last year, having become the first rider to win all 5 solo races in a week in 2010.

He says he'll be keeping on top of his fitness and hopes he'll be able to repay his team, Swan Yamaha.

]]>

Road racer Ian Hutchinson says he should be fit for this year's TT.

]]> <![CDATA[Hutchinson facing uphill struggle]]> http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12647 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:06:13 +0000 http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12647
The 32-year-old had only just returned to fitness following a long battle to overcome the devastating injuries he suffered in a freak end of season crash at Silverstone in 2010, when he was struck by another competitor on the opening lap of a British Supersport race.

On that occasion the eight-times Isle of Man TT winner was left writhing in agony with a shattered left leg.

Such was the extent of the damage there were fears initially that doctors would be forced to amputate.

However, he triumphed in the face of adversity, harnessing the sheer will and determination that formed the basis of his historic five wins in a week romp at the TT three months previously to return to motorcycle racing in quite remarkable style at last November’s Macau Grand Prix, where he finished on the rostrum in third.

But in a crushing setback, Hutchinson has it all to do again after breaking the same leg he almost lost as a result of his initial crash at Silverstone some 14 months ago.

Reports suggest he appeared to twist his leg while riding an off-road bike during a rehearsal for a mini stunt event at the Carole Nash MCN Motorcycle Show in London, which opened on Thursday.

He was taken to see his surgeon in Coventry after the incident and it was later reported that the fractures he sustained did not occur in the same area as the original breaks.

Hutchinson underwent surgery on Wednesday evening and now has an external cage fitted to his damaged limb to speed up the recovery process.

Under normal circumstances, a fractured tibia and fibula takes between 12-16 weeks to heal and Swan Yamaha team boss Shaun Muir said ‘Hutchy’ was facing a recovery period of three months, resulting in a return date of early May if all goes according to plan.

But with North West 200 practice getting under way on Tuesday, May 15, it will be touch and go for the gutsy Bingley man in terms of his participation in the event.

Hutchinson, though, hasn’t given up hope of competing at the TT, stressing on his official Twitter account that he is still aiming to race at the event in June.

Team owner Muir is already looking for a replacement rider for the opening rounds of the British Superbike Championship, although no names have yet been linked with the vacant Yamaha seat.

.]]>
The 32-year-old had only just returned to fitness following a long battle to overcome the devastating injuries he suffered in a freak end of season crash at Silverstone in 2010, when he was struck by another competitor on the opening lap of a British Supersport race.

On that occasion the eight-times Isle of Man TT winner was left writhing in agony with a shattered left leg.

Such was the extent of the damage there were fears initially that doctors would be forced to amputate.

However, he triumphed in the face of adversity, harnessing the sheer will and determination that formed the basis of his historic five wins in a week romp at the TT three months previously to return to motorcycle racing in quite remarkable style at last November’s Macau Grand Prix, where he finished on the rostrum in third.

But in a crushing setback, Hutchinson has it all to do again after breaking the same leg he almost lost as a result of his initial crash at Silverstone some 14 months ago.

Reports suggest he appeared to twist his leg while riding an off-road bike during a rehearsal for a mini stunt event at the Carole Nash MCN Motorcycle Show in London, which opened on Thursday.

He was taken to see his surgeon in Coventry after the incident and it was later reported that the fractures he sustained did not occur in the same area as the original breaks.

Hutchinson underwent surgery on Wednesday evening and now has an external cage fitted to his damaged limb to speed up the recovery process.

Under normal circumstances, a fractured tibia and fibula takes between 12-16 weeks to heal and Swan Yamaha team boss Shaun Muir said ‘Hutchy’ was facing a recovery period of three months, resulting in a return date of early May if all goes according to plan.

But with North West 200 practice getting under way on Tuesday, May 15, it will be touch and go for the gutsy Bingley man in terms of his participation in the event.

Hutchinson, though, hasn’t given up hope of competing at the TT, stressing on his official Twitter account that he is still aiming to race at the event in June.

Team owner Muir is already looking for a replacement rider for the opening rounds of the British Superbike Championship, although no names have yet been linked with the vacant Yamaha seat.

.]]> <![CDATA[Steam Packet To Move Operations to Liverpool ?]]> http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12646 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:56:07 +0000 http://www.ttwebsite.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=12646 [Image: bbcnewsliverpool.jpg]

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is considering moving the majority of its operations from Heysham, Lancashire, to Liverpool.

The company runs passenger and freight sailings to Douglas from Heysham, fast craft summer services from Liverpool and weekend sailings from Birkenhead.

Chief executive Mark Woodward said passenger research showed that "Liverpool is a clear choice".

The company has sailed from the city since 1832.

In the mid-1980s the majority of the firm's sailings were moved to Heysham.

Mr Woodward said:

"The Steam Packet has had a long and historic link with Liverpool.

"From our freight customers' point of view Liverpool is preferred to Heysham because of its transport links and many of them have bases or warehouses in the Liverpool area."

From Manx Radio

t's reported Liverpool Council is in talks with the Steam Packet about sharing its landing stage facilities at Pier Head.

The discussions come as the local authority moves forward with plans to welcome cruise liners into the Mersey.

Reporting on the news the Liverpool Echo says the vessels will be based there in three months.

The paper says it's all come as a bit of a shock, as there had been a stalemate between the council and the UK government over the amount of money needed to end the turnaround ban.

The council has agreed to repay whatever grant cash is required to lift the ban on "turnarounds", which are voyages starting and ending at Liverpool cruise terminal.

.]]> [Image: bbcnewsliverpool.jpg]

From Manx Radio

Former world champion Jorge Lorenzo wants the top speed of the sport's new bikes to be cut by MotoGP organisers to protect riders' safety.

The 1,000cc bikes generally prompted a warm reception following testing at Malaysia's Sepang circuit, where Marco Simoncelli died in October.

But Lorenzo, the 2010 world champion with Yamaha, admitted: "I am not happy with the top speed.

"We need to reduce it if we want to make it in the safe category."

World champion Casey Stoner easily beat Valentino Rossi's 2009 track record , set on an 800cc bike, by nearly a second on Thursday. But his time of 1min 59.607sec will not stand as a new mark because it was set out of competition.

Seven-time world champion Rossi played down any safety concerns about the bikes, which can hit 320kph (198mph) along straights. "We can slide and the bike becomes more fun," he said.

"I like the 1,000cc. This type of engine has better torque and better driveability. For me... the speed will be impressive and I don't think it will be more dangerous."

Mike Webb, race director with motorcycle racing's governing body FIM, said transmissions are smoother on the larger engines. That makes it easier to shift up or down in gear, leading to "less accidents".

Webb, who believes "there is no such thing as 100% safety", added: "We are very happy with the level of safety and the chances of something going wrong is very, very low now.

"We are at the dawn of the 1,000cc (era). The riders enjoy the bike. The spectators will surely enjoy the race a lot more and they will be safer and easier to ride."

Dani Pedrosa, who races for Honda, complained about some issues with chatter - vibrations caused by hard braking.

He said: "You go into the corner and the bike is chattering. Chatter is something very difficult to fix. Surely they (Honda) are on it."

In 2002, racing was done on 990cc engines, until the 800cc bikes were introduced for the 2007 season.

.]]> [Image: motogplogo.gif]

For John 'Hopper' Hopkins 2012 should be the year he embarks on his real SBK career even though he cannot be thought of as a rookie, having been a Stiggy Honda rider back in 2009.

Injury has played a part in his career at key times in the past and this season will start in a similar way, with John having had the top two knuckles of the fourth finger on his right (throttle) hand amputated, after several operations to try and save the finger. For some riders this would be a blow to their confidence with the season only a month or so away, but Hopper's comments about this situation say a lot about the way he has rebuilt a positive outlook on racing and life in general in recent times.

"I have been keeping the injury clean and so on, so there is no infection," affirmed Hopkins from his home in the USA. "It is going to be a little different feeling, probably a bit awkward, when I get on the bike for the first time. But the fact that it is the fourth finger means it is probably the least used, as far as gripping the bars, braking and throttle is concerned. It is something I will have to get used to but I do not think it will affect me tremendously. When I get used to it, I think it will be good."

Part of the reason why Hopkins is so motivated for 2012 is the fact that he proved he was back to being a truly potent force after coming so close to winning in BSB in 2011 for Suzuki. That and the facts that he will now take on the might of the SBK entry with his existing team, an updated version of a bike he knows well and with the support of legendary tuning house Yoshimura, who will supply engines for himself and his team-mate Leon Camier.

"I am very much looking forward to this year and we are going to have as good a chance as anyone," said Hopkins, unequivocally. "I get along really well with the team, the bike seems really good, and I feel a whole lot better within myself - personally, mentally, with my fitness, everything. I feel a lot better on the Suzuki than I ever did on '09 on the Stiggy bike. I was injured still then, and it was just not a good time for me, but I feel a lot better. More motivated and hungry to go out and fight for the win."

Hopkins does not, of course, underestimate the level and depth of competition he is about to face in 2012, stating, "I am back in a World Championship and it is no means going to be easy. There is a lot of stiff competition out there with all the guys that are riding."

Hopkins had his stitches removed on 26th January, and said via his twitter page, "YES!!! Stitches have finally been removed, wounds have almost healed and its time to do some riding..."

.]]> [Image: hopperwithphones.jpg]

It has been a positive first shakedown with the Honda RC213V for Team San Carlo Honda Gresini and their new rider Alvaro Bautista at Sepang. Over the three days his feeling with the 1000cc machine has gradually improved and now both the team and rider are extremely confident about the next session, which takes place at the same circuit at the end of this month. Bautista completed 34 on the third and final day of this test, stopping the clock at 2’ 01” 384 before a heavy tropical shower brought the session to a premature end.

Alvaro Bautista (2’ 01” 384 – 34 laps)

“The first test is over and we come away with a positive feeling. I took another step forward today, improving my rhythm more than anything, and overall we have done a good job and established a good feel for the RC213V. Now we have a little time before the next test here at Sepang to process the information we have gathered here over the last three days. We need to get everything right for the next visit to Malaysia but I am happy, satisfied and confident about the future. The relationship with the team and with Honda is great and this will help us achieve results. I have to say the most impressive thing about the RC213V is the electronics, which delivers the power in such a linear and progressive way that you can really make the most of the 1000cc.”

.]]> [Image: sancarlonewhdr.jpg]

After three days of intense testing at the Sepang International Circuit, the NGM Mobile Forward Racing team concluded their first steps of a great adventure for the newly formed MotoGP™ team, with veteran rider Colin Edwards at the controls of the Suter-BMW prototype.

The American made huge strides at the three day test in Malaysia, steadily improving from a best lap of 2’08.240 in the first session to a 2’04.722 by the third day, making the test a success for the team.

Edwards completed a total of 94 laps during which he and the team focused their efforts on setting up the electronics package and smoothing out the power deliver of the bike. Now the team will work with the data collected to be ready for the second Official Test later this month in Malaysia, where the objective will be to make the bike perform consistently and to narrow the gap from the factory machines.

Colin Edwards:

"After the first day, we obviously realized we had some major issues with some chatter that we have been working hard to fix. The electronics package has been in development since Jerez, it has come a long way and I’m really happy with it. The Bosch guys have worked hard and whenever I asked them for something, they made it happen."

"It was a little difficult coming here after what happened with Marco last year. On my first lap around I slowed up in turn eleven and kind of paid my respects to Marco real quietly. Then I got on with the job of making the bike better."

"I honestly thought 2’02, 2’03s were possible within three days, but I did not expect we were going to encounter chatter. At the end of the test we did 2’04 but there is easily a 2’03 or mid 2’02 if we don’t have chatter and that’s really what I have to work on during the next test. We just have to come back and solve the problem. We have several ideas and at the test got a lot of work done; we probably tested more components in the last few days than in all of my days with Yamaha."

"The 2012 prototype has a completely different chassis and swingarm, and the engine, thanks to BMW, the engine is excellent. Our electronics guys did great as far as smoothing out the power. It’s one thing to have a really fast bike but it’s another thing to ride it for twenty laps around here. We still have to play with the electronics to fix the chatter problems that have intensified with the new Bridgestones."

"It feels good to know that you can develop something and work towards the future instead of just being one of the guys being told: "You can have this" instead of what you ask for. Now we are actually building something and making things happen. We are developing something together and it feels good to develop a bike my way. I’m really happy."

.]]> [Image: ngmracinglogo.jpg]

The Buildbase BMW Motorrad team has today (Wednesday) announced that Howie Mainwaring will join Steve Brogan for the team's 2012 assault on the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 Championship.

Brogan won the first ever BSB Evo title in 2010 for BMW Motorrad and won the 2008 Superstock 1000 title before finishing runner up in 2009. Mainwaring finished fifth in the 2011 National Superstock 1000 Championship, including an impressive race win at Brands Hatch. The Superstock riders will join the previously announced Buildbase BMW Motorrad British Superbike team of Dan Linfoot and Barry Burrell for the official BSB test at the Cartagena circuit on Spain on 1-3 March.

Brogan said:

"I am really excited about riding for BMW Motorrad once again. We had a fantastic result in 2010 when we took the BSB-EVO title. I expect this year to be as tough as ever and I have been working hard to get back to full fitness since the crash last year, and physically and mentally I'm at the very top of my game and very excited to get out there and race."

Mainwaring said:

"This season is going to be fantastic. The BMW has absolutely dominated Superstock for two years and the Buildbase BMW Motorrad team have put together an incredible bike. Their experience and skills will give me a fantastic opportunity to take the title. And I'm looking forward to racing alongside Brogan. Obviously I'm younger and braver, so I'll be the faster rider!"

Team Principal Stuart Hicken concluded:

"This year we have two very fast and experienced lads who will ensure that the BMW S 1000 RR is once again at the sharp end of racing. Brogan's experience with both the bike and the series will be a real asset and he and Howie will work very well together. Thanks to our strong 2011 season, we have a wealth of setup information and race data which, combined with the new and improved RR from BMW, puts us into a very good position for the start of the season."

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Fastest 2011 TT Races Newcomer Simon Andrews will team up with 17 time TT Champion John McGuinness in the Honda Legends team for the 2012 Isle of Man TT Races fuelled by Monster Energy, Honda Motor Europe announced today.

John McGuinness secured his 16th and 17th TT victories on the Isle of Man in 2011 with wins in the Dainese Superbike and PokerStars Senior TT as well as winning the overall championship while Worcester based Andrews recorded a lap of 125.174 as he took 11th place in the PokerStars Senior Race. He also finished 11th in the Royal London 360 Superbike Race in his debut year.

The pair will also be part of a four strong line up with Australian Cameron Donald and 2011 Monster Energy Supersport Race winner Gary Johnson in the FIM Endurance World Championship.

Donald and Johnson will also race Honda's at the TT and North West while Johnson will also contest the 2012 British Superstock Championship with Honda (UK) Racing.

The team will campaign on the Isle of Man aboard the 2012 version of the CBR1000RR Fireblade as Honda celebrates the 20th anniversary of the legendary machine.

Neil Tuxworth, team manager, Honda TT Legends commented:

"Honda was keen to showcase the Fireblade in a different environment to that of short circuit racing and we certainly proved its dynamic capability in endurance racing. We had a good first year, but now the focus is on improvement with the ultimate goal being the podium in the FIM Endurance World Chamionship. We have the 2012 Combined ABS-equipped Fireblade, two riders with a year of EWC under their belts and two new and enthusiastic riders who can't wait to get stuck in so we're very positive about the season ahead. When it to comes to the TT, what better line-up than the fastest man around the course and the 2011 fastest newcomer? It's going to be an exciting year."

Robert Watherston - Manager Motorcycle Sport, Honda Motor Europe

The Honda TT Legends team was launched not only to highlight the unique heritage and iconic status of the Fireblade, but to celebrate some of the world's most spectacular motorcycling events - the sense of occasion and festival atmosphere. The inaugural season for the Honda TT Legends added to Honda's already rich history of involvement in such events. After a successful year that saw the team hold its own in a very competitive EWC field and add two TT wins to McGuinness's tally, we are looking forward to the challenge of year two - which is all the more significant being the 20th anniversary of the CBR1000RR Fireblade.

John McGuinness, Honda TT Legends commented:

"Last year was definitely a learning year for the team and now it's time to up our game in EWC. We did a lot of development on the bike last season, particularly at the last couple of rounds with the introduction of Combined ABS. We were knocking on the door of the podium and this year we'll hopefully go one step further and get up there. We've got a great crew and after year one we all know what we're doing and what the aims are for 2012 so things are looking good. The fact that's it's the 20th anniversary of the Fireblade makes it all the more exciting. Each time Honda brings out an updated model it's a big step forward so I'm looking forward to racing it. I've had some of the most memorable career moments on the Fireblade and with any luck we'll be adding to the list this year."

Simon Andrews, Honda TT Legends, commented:

"I am genuinely excited about the year ahead. To be asked to join the Honda TT Legends team is a real honour and I can't wait for the season to get started. I have done a couple of endurance races - one being the Le Mans 24-hour - so I do know what to expect but I'm sure the full championship will be a real challenge. I'm a rider that rides better with miles under my belt, so the endurance side of things will without doubt help with the road racing. To be riding alongside the legend that is John McGuinness at the Isle of Man TT is big business and I'm hoping he'll have one or two pointers for me! There is no better person to learn from."

Paul Phillips, TT and Motorsport Development Manager, Isle of Man Government commented:

"John McGuinness again proved that he is the man to beat on the Mountain Course last year with his two wins and in Simon Andrews I am convinced that we have a TT star of the future. With limited practice time last year he still finished 11th in the Senior and Superstock Races and with a few more laps he could well have been the fastest newcomer ever on the Island."

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Honda Motor Europe has revealed a four-strong rider line-up for the Honda TT Legends team as it prepares for an all-important second year of competition in the FIM Endurance World Championship and at selected road racing events. The team will launch its assault on the world’s toughest track and road races aboard the 2012 version of the CBR1000RR Fireblade as Honda celebrates the 20th anniversary of the legendary machine.

Seventeen-times Isle of Man TT winner John McGuinness and road racing ace Cameron Donald will remain with the Honda TT Legends for 2012 and will be joined by British Superstock and road racing star Gary Johnson and 2011 fastest TT newcomer Simon Andrews. All four riders will contest the 2012 Endurance World Championship while McGuinness and Andrews will make up a two-man team for the Isle of Man TT and the Northwest 200.

Donald and Johnson will remain in the Honda family at both road racing events, competing for Wilson Craig Honda and Padgetts of Batley respectively. Johnson will also contest the 2012 British Superstock Championship with Honda (UK) Racing.

Neil Tuxworth – team manager

We went into the 2011 EWC as a novice team and it was very much a development year – not just for the riders but for the whole crew. Honda was keen to showcase the Fireblade in a different environment to that of short circuit racing – the festival-type atmosphere enjoyed by thousands of fans at the Isle of Man TT and the 24hr endurance races has to be experienced to be believed! We had a good first year, but now the focus is on improvement with the ultimate goal being the podium. We have the 2012 Combined ABS-equipped Fireblade, two riders with a year of EWC under their belts and two new and enthusiastic riders who can’t wait to get stuck in so we’re very positive about the season ahead. When it to comes to the TT, what better line-up than the fastest man around the course and the 2011 fastest newcomer? It’s going to be an exciting year.

John McGuinness

Last year was definitely a learning year for the team and now it’s time to up our game in EWC. We did a lot of development on the bike last season, particularly at the last couple of rounds with the introduction of Combined ABS. We were knocking on the door of the podium and this year we’ll hopefully go one step further and get up there. We’ve got a great crew and after year one we all know what we’re doing and what the aims are for 2012 so things are looking good. The fact that’s it’s the 20th anniversary of the Fireblade makes it all the more exciting. Each time Honda brings out an updated model it’s a big step forward so I’m looking forward to racing it. I’ve had some of the most memorable career moments on the Fireblade and with any luck we’ll be adding to the list this year.

Simon Andrews

I am genuinely excited about the year ahead. To be asked to join the Honda TT Legends team is a real honour and I can’t wait for the season to get started. I have done a couple of endurance races – one being the Le Mans 24-hour – so I do know what to expect but I’m sure the full championship will be a real challenge. I’m a rider that rides better with miles under my belt, so the endurance side of things will without doubt help with the road racing. To be riding alongside the legend that is John McGuinness at the Isle of Man TT is big business and I’m hoping he’ll have one or two pointers for me! There is no better person to learn from.

Cameron Donald

Last year was my first taste of World Endurance and I loved the new challenge. I was entering the unknown at every race and I had some of the best experiences of my racing career. I am sure that it has improved the way I ride a race bike and I am looking forward to building on that knowledge in 2011. As a team, we learned so much last year and secured a couple of top five finishes but now its time to step it up, focus on improving and hopefully make some appearances on that podium.

Gary Johnson

I’ve wanted to get involved in endurance racing for years so I’m really excited about riding for the Honda TT Legends. It is by far the most professional team I have worked with and I’m looking forward to being a part of it. It’s a brilliant opportunity to travel to and race at many circuits that I haven’t ridden before. I’ve no doubt that it is going to be a challenge, but it is one that I am more than up for.

.]]> [Image: hondalegendslogo.jpg]

On only his second lap of the day, Casey Stoner recorded a blistering fast lap of 1'59.607 which remained unbeaten for the rest of the day.

The Australian rider spent this final day of testing to work on various aspects on his RC213V machine including shock settings and the new Bridgestone tyres.Repsol Honda team-mate Dani Pedrosa set the 3rd fastest lap of the day with a 2'00.256. Pedrosa concentrated on braking and also the electronics management system.

This has been a productive first test for the Repsol Honda Team. HRC engineers will now return to Japan with feedback from both riders and the team will return to Sepang for the second test on February 28th.

Casey Stoner:

"It's been a good test in general, we only managed two out of the three days unfortunately but the weather has been really good to us and we've been able to do what we planned. The day I missed hasn't affected us too much and we've managed to complete our testing programme, to be honest I think track conditions on the first day weren't that great anyway as the lap times were not so fast."

"I'm still not feeling great with my back but the bike is ok, so we've made progress in reducing the chatter a little more and trying a few different things, some small settings on the shock that we haven't tried before amongst other points. So far it's been pretty positive, we'll just have to wait and see what we have for the next test and hopefully improve a little more. Now I'm looking forward to getting home to Switzerland to see Adriana and await the arrival of our baby!"

Dani Pedrosa:

"Three days testing here in Malaysia is very tiring. This morning when I woke up I was pretty sore and stiff, but once I got running I was a little bit better. Anyway, it’s been worth it to do a general test of the engine, chassis and tyres and overall it is the biggest test we have done on this bike and we have good data to analyse and can start to build up points we need for the second test."

"As I said yesterday, the biggest point to improve is on braking, and we are also working on the electronics to improve the management of the power and the grip level. The chatter is still there, I know it's something very difficult to fix, but I’m sure Honda is working hard on it. In general, it’s been a positive test for us and we will come back here in three weeks with new ideas. This bike is physically more demanding, you feel the power in the acceleration, the speed under hard braking and also the extra weight, but it’s alright. I will keep wor king hard physically to prepare for the second test."]]> [Image: motogplogo.gif]

The Ducati Team concluded the first Test of the season satisfied with the new Ducati GP12’s improved front end feel and handling, and have a clear direction on what needs to be improved on the more powerful 1000cc bike.

The first MotoGP™ Test of 2012 finished today at the Sepang International Circuit with a day that was affected by variable weather conditions, with intense heat in the middle of the day and a shower that cut short the planned work schedule at 5:25 p.m.

Nicky Hayden concluded his testing early after trying to ride with heavy taping on his injured left shoulder. Still lacking the necessary strength to push hard, he and the team agreed it was best to finish early. Valentino Rossi continued testing until heavy rain arrived at the circuit, completing the session with the fifth-best time.

Valentino Rossi:

"We on the team are all happy with how this test has gone, especially today. With a 2’00.8, we’re starting to get to a decent time. The two Hondas and the two Yamahas are still ahead of us, but we consider this test to be a starting point. The most positive things we’ve achieved are that the front now lets me ride a little more as I like, and the bike reacts well to changes and that we have very clear ideas on what’s still missing. In particular, if we manage to improve the bike’s behaviour on acceleration, we’ll be able to take a consistent step forward."

"I know that the work has never stopped at Ducati, and now with the information we’ve gathered, they’ll keep working on the areas that we’ve identified. That might take a while, but there’s still some time before the first race. We have to keep improving, so we’re not getting too excited, but I’m pleased with how things have gone so far."

Nicky Hayden:

"Obviously, I’d like to have done more. I can’t really say it was a real test for me, but I did a few laps each morning in order to at least get a feel for the new bike, get a little data and understand a couple of things. Even in that limited time, I was able to make small improvements and go quicker each day."

"Ducati did an amazing job with this bike in a short amount of time. It’s smoother than any other Ducati I’ve ever ridden, it looks slick and it’s good to work on. It’s got good power, and the front end is working well, but with the extra power, now we’ve got to find better rear traction at the first touch of the throttle. With the few adjustments we’ve made, everything seems to be going in a good way, so now I just need to get healthy."

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The Yamaha Factory Racing Team today completed the first test of the 2012 season at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies spent the three track days working to develop the base set up of the 1000cc YZR-M1 ahead of the second Sepang test in one month’s time. The riders and engineers focused on the balance of the M1 chassis along with improving the electronics package to gain the optimum performance from the increased horsepower. New Bridgestone tyres were also assessed ahead of the upcoming race season. The times from today’s final session saw Lorenzo slot in as the second fastest rider, 0.59 seconds behind Casey Stoner. Team mate Spies wrapped up in fourth position, 0.88 seconds from first.

The riders will now return to the USA and Spain respectively whilst the engineers return to Japan with the valuable data to make the next steps forward in development. The team will return in four weeks time to test the work done.

Jorge Lorenzo - Position 2nd - Time 2.00.198 - Laps 35

“I’m really, really satisfied, I have improved on my best record here in Sepang. We tried a lot of things; some have been a lot better, especially one major improvement. We also know where we have to improve in the future. The electronics are not perfect yet, we still need to make it smoother but the bike has so much potential we are very optimistic. The Yamaha engineers have worked really hard so they have done a good job. I made my best time today at midday which is the hardest time with the conditions so it was pretty good. Let’s see what we can do when we come back.”

Ben Spies - Position 4th - Time 2.00.495 - Laps 16

“It’s been a good test, we’ve got a lot of things accomplished, we’re definitely moving in the right direction with my bike. I tried the Yamaha test rider’s bike today which had a slightly different set up to make a fair comparison with mine. I made a small mistake, losing the front but that’s testing; it can happen when you’re working out the good and bad! All in all it’s been great and I’m really happy and looking forward to coming back and seeing what’s new.”

Positive start to 2012 for Crutchlow and Dovizioso

The Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team made a positive start to preparations for the 2012 MotoGP World Championship after a three-day test session at the Sepang International Circuit, which reached a successful conclusion today.

British rider Cal Crutchlow wasted no time in getting back up to speed to clock the third fastest time on the opening day and he was one of the outstanding performers for the duration of the test.

Making only his second appearance on Yamaha's 1000cc machine, Crutchlow worked through a range of set-up options to improve his speed and confidence with the all-new YZR-M1. He walked away unhurt from a small front-end crash at Turn 13 on the final morning and he eventually finished with a quickest time of 2.01.108.

Andrea Dovizioso demonstrated his determination to quickly get to grips with the YZR-M1, with the Italian rider giving his absolute maximum effort just three weeks after he broke his right collarbone in a motocross training accident. The intense heat and humidity always makes riding at the Sepang International Circuit a tough physical examination, but Dovizioso also had to contend with the pain and discomfort from his recovering right collarbone to complete 102 crucial development laps on board the YZR-M1. He set a best time of 2.01.257 to finish just behind Crutchlow on the leaderboard.

The Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team continues its pre- season testing campaign back at the Sepang International Circuit for another three-day test, which commences on February 28.

Cal Crutchlow - Position 7th - Time 2.01.108

“I am really pleased with the way things have gone at this test and it has been a really good confidence boost to start 2012. Sepang is a track I just don't get on with or enjoy riding at but I was third on the first day and fifth on the second day. I'm sure I could have been fifth on the final day too but a couple of things didn't go my way. I had a crash early on at Turn 13 when I basically ran wide and got on the dirty part of the track. It was my fault and that cost me a fair bit of track time and when I was confident I could go a lot quicker at the end it started raining. The pleasing aspect is my times have been consistent and that bodes well for the future. I'm not as fast as Stone r, Spies, Pedrosa or Lorenzo but for consistency I'm the best of the rest. The new 1000cc YZR-M1 has kept the strong points of the 800 with good corner entry and turning. But we do need to look at improving the bike on corner exit. Being in the top five on the first two days and not far away on the final day is a great start but I'm not going to get carried away. This is only the first test and while testing is really important, it is what happens in Qatar on April 8 that is really important.”

Andrea Dovizioso - Position 8th - Time 2.01.257

“I am really happy just to have been able to come to this test and ride because beforehand a lot of people said it would be impossible. The collarbone was very badly broken but this test is very important and I want to thank everybody that helped me in my recuperation in Italy that made it possib le for me to ride. You can do a lot of good work here even if it is very bad for my body, but I am happy because I could ride on each day and my feeling with the Yamaha is coming much better than the first time I tried the bike in Valencia. I understood much more about this bike here and what I realise is that I have to change my style more. There is a big difference in the characteristic of the Yamaha and the Honda I rode for the last four years, so I have to learn to use the good points of the M1 more. But it was not so easy riding in my physical condition. Braking for the right-hand corners was hard but changing direction was an issue because I don't have 100% strength. I am looking forward to the next test now where I will be a lot closer to being 100% fit.”

Test Times

1. Casey Stoner (AUS) Repsol Honda Team 1'59.607
2. Jorge Lorenzo (SPA) Yamaha Factory Racing 2'00.198
3. Dani Pedrosa (SPA) Repsol Honda Team 2'00.256
4. Ben Spies (USA) Yamaha Factory Racing 2'00.495
5. Valentino Rossi (ITA) Ducati Team 2'00.824
6. Hector Barbera (SPA) Pramac Racing Team 2'00.929
7. Cal Crutchlow (GBR) Yamaha Tech3 2'01.108
8. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA) Yamaha Tech3 2'01.257
9. Alvaro Bautista (SPA) Honda Gresini 2'01.384
10. Nicky Hayden (USA) Ducati Team 2'01.729
11. Stefan Bradl (GER) LCR Honda 2'01.894
12. Karel Abraham (CZE) Cardion AB Motoracing 2'02.218
13. Katsuyuki Nakasuga (JPN) Yamaha Factory Racing 2'02.334
14. Franco Battaini (ITA) Ducati Team 2'03.033
15. Colin Edwards (USA) NGM Mobile Forward Racing 2'04.722
16. Ivan Silva (SPA) Avintia Racing 2'08.225
17. Robertino Pietri (VEN) Avintia Racing 2'09.640
18. Jordi Torres (SPA) Avintia Racing 2'10.184

Sepang Record Lap
C.Stoner (Ducati) 2007, 2'02.108

Sepang Best Lap
V.Rossi (Yamaha) 2009, 2'00.518

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Positive start to 2012 for Crutchlow and Dovizioso

In light of recent events, Pr1mo Racing regrets to confirm that team owner Danny Cheevers has been taken into custody with a charge for conspiracy to supply narcotics.

This has come as a huge shock and disappointment to everyone in the team. As a title sponsor, Pr1mo will be looking to continue its relationship with Bournemouth Kawasaki and its preparations for the 2012 season remain in place.

A further announcement will be made at a later date when we have more information.

Posted by Pr1mo Racing on 31 January 2012]]> [Image: pr1moracinglogo.jpg]

Peter Hickman is ready to step up for the 2012 MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship season after confirming today (Wednesday) he will make the switch to the MSS Colchester Kawasaki team alongside Michael Rutter.

Hickman secured a maiden BSB podium finish last season at Thruxton with a strong second place and was another rider to narrowly miss out on the cut for the top six in the Showdown before ending the season in ninth place. Hickman already has a history of riding Kawasakis in both the Superstock and Superbike classes and is looking forward to riding the new ZX-10R this season.

Hickman said:

"I've been talking to Nick for a couple of years but it came together for 2012 over the winter and I've got to say I'm really chuffed to be with such an established team. I keep coming back to Kawasaki; I won the Superstock Cup in 2004 on one and raced one again in Superstock in 2005 before two years on the Hawk Kawasaki bike in 2006-7 with some really good results in the first year.

"The new rules in BSB should maybe close the gap but I'm sure it will still be the same faces up the front. That said, I haven't got to re-learn anything as I only experienced traction control for the first time last season and even then had it running in the background rather than using it properly. I'm bringing my crew chief with me so it will be good to have a bit of consistency and I know Nick runs a great team. I feel like I've earned my place on the BSB grid now and with this package and team there's no reason why we can't be aiming for the top six, even with such a strong field. I have more to prove this year and I am really excited about getting started so I just can't wait now for Brands Hatch and the start of the season."

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Althea Racing today took the opportunity to officially present its 2012 World Superbike outfit to sponsors and members of the press at the team’s headquarters in Civita Castellana.

Later this month the 2011 World SBK Champions will be back in action at the opening round of the 2012 World SBK Championship, but before embarking on what will be an inevitably challenging journey, team manager Genesio Bevilacqua, riders Carlos Checa and Davide Giugliano and team members were all on hand to officially launch the season and unveil the new livery of the Ducati 1198 machines.

Key sponsors, including representatives from Unibat, TIM and SNAI, were present for an informal lunch followed by the formal presentation, during which team members and riders spoke about their expectations for the coming season. Also on stage were special guests including Paolo Flammini, CEO of Infront Motor Sports, Paolo Ciabatti, General Manager of Infront Motor Sports, and Ernesto Marinelli, SBK Project Director for Ducati. The event was attended by many members of the national and international press with guests also having the chance to view Genesio Bevilacqua’s extensive private bike collection, housed at the same location.

Genesio Bevilacqua, General Manager of Althea Racing spoke about his team’s objectives going into the new year:

“I’m very happy to officially present our 2012 line-up. As you know, our confirmed riders are SBK champion Carlos Checa and Davide Giugliano, a rising talent. We thank all of our sponsors, and particularly Unibat, SNAI and TIM, as it is thanks to them that we are able to embark on this adventure. We start the season with high expectations, having won in both the Superbike and Superstock categories last year. We know it won’t be easy as the competition is very strong but we will do our best to repeat last year’s incredible performance, knowing that we can count on the experience gained by our men in the field during 2011. We hope that this experience will help us to do even better than last year.”

Carlos Checa, the 2011 championship winner, knows that competition will be stiffer than ever this year but is confident as he sets about defending his title:

“I prefer not to say too much, it’s impossible to make predictions when it comes to racing! We do know that this coming season will be tough, there will be stiff competition and we will fight with more or less the same bike as in previous seasons. Having said that, I am confident and can’t wait to get back on track with my team – it goes without saying that we will do our utmost to defend the title!”

Having demonstrated his potential by winning the 2011 Superstock 1000 FIM Cup with Althea Racing, Davide Giugliano makes an important step up to the Superbike class this year and relishes the chance to compete in such a strong field:

“I hope to be strong right from the start. I’m riding the championship winning bike and am part of the championship winning team so I don’t have any excuses really! I realize that I need to get straight down to work and learn fast if I want to start seeing the results.”

The Althea Racing team leaves for Phillip Island, Australia next week, and will participate in final testing sessions before preparing for Round 1 of the 2012 World SBK championship, taking place at the same track over the weekend of 24-26th February.

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The MotoGP™ paddock was back at work on their 2012 machines on the third day of the Official Test at Sepang on Thursday, with Casey Stoner topping the first half of the day with a blazing time of 1’59.607 set on just his second lap.

Under slightly cooler conditions after a sweltering day Wednesday, the 1000cc prototypes hit the track Thursday morning, and reigning World Champion Stoner cleared the pack with the fastest time the Sepang International Circuit has seen thus far. Stoner is using the third and final day to test the new Bridgestone spec tires with his Repsol Honda RC213V and to work with the clutch to smooth out chatter issues.

Factory Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo was second in the timesheet, 0.591s off the lead pace of Stoner, while using the morning comparing various new settings on his M1. Team-mate Ben Spies had a crash at the 12:30 mark while testing a new chassis this morning, the Texan was unscathed and managed the fourth fastest time of 2’00.495, before retiring for the remainder of the day.

Dani Pedrosa was third fastest with a time of 2’00.256, the Spaniard working on comparing two different chassis on his Repsol Honda and testing suspension and tire pressure settings to deal with chatter the heavier 1000cc bikes have many of the teams working on.

Valentino Rossi lapped his Ducati Desmosedici GP12 just under four tenths of a second behind Pedrosa while still testing new parts on the bike. Team-mate Nicky Hayden is suffering some strength issues with his recovering shoulder, the American put in 16 laps and a time of 2’01.729 to rank tenth for the morning. Both Ducati Team riders are satisfied that the front end feel issues the suffered in 2011 are largely resolved.

Hector Barbara climbed the ranks from yesterday with a best lap of 2’00.929 aboard the Pramac Racing bike while testing new Bridgestone tire compounds. The Spaniard was two tenths ahead of Cal Crutchlow (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) who had a minor crash just after 11am that set his thus far rapid progress back slightly.

Next in the rankings was Monster Yamaha Tech 3’s Andrea Dovizioso with a time of 2’01.257. The Italian was two tenths ahead of Alvaro Bautista on the Honda of the Gresini Team, who is continuing to gather confidence on the Honda RC213V, his first 1000cc GP bike.

After a busy day testing two different chassis, Moto2 World Champion Stefan Bradl (LCR Honda) is spending the day tire testing. His time of 2’01.894 put him 11th in the lineup, four tenths ahead of Karel Abraham (Cardion AB Motoracing), who is also testing tires today.

NGM Mobile Forward Racing’s Colin Edwards is still diagnosing chatter issues, the Texan’s time of 2:04.722 put him 15th, while the Avintia Racing’s Ivan Silva and replacement rider Jordi Torres completed the times after recovering from their engine problems of the day before .

Join motogp.com for a full report of the day's Testing upon its conclusion, and keep up to date with the latest times by clicking here.

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